Cerritos, CA — Following another high-energy offseason, Head Coach Demel Franklin and the Cerritos High School football team are charging into the 2025 season with high expectations, renewed focus, and a hunger to bring home more championship hardware.
Offseason Focus: Details, Discipline, and Daily Work
The Cerritos Dons have zeroed in on strength, agility, and execution during the offseason. “We’re grinding every day,” says Coach Franklin. “We’re focusing on the small details that lead to proper execution. It’s all about consistent effort.”
In the weight room and on the practice field, the Dons are working to improve every rep, preparing both physically and mentally for the grind of the season ahead.
Tournaments and Team Chemistry
The team has also embraced the competitive edge that comes from 7v7 and 5v5 tournaments across Los Angeles and Orange County. These events provide valuable opportunities to sharpen skills, test schemes, and build chemistry as they head into the fall.
Roster Shifts: Key Losses, Rising Stars
Cerritos will look to fill the void left by Ruben Castro, Nathaniel Crawford, Josiah Ungos, and Devyn Chantha — players who were cornerstones of the program. While their absence will be felt, Coach Franklin is excited about the returning talent and rising stars finally stepping into bigger roles.
“We’ve been a young team for a while,” Franklin said. “Now it’s time for some of those guys to shine.”
Players to Watch in 2025
Several Dons are already turning heads with their offseason effort and potential for breakout seasons:
Justin Sagun (QB) – The field general is expected to lead the offense with poise and confidence.
Terrence Grissom (ATH) – A do-it-all athlete who makes big plays all over the field.
Devion Stinson (OL/DL) & Chidebum Ozoagu (OL/DL) – Power and grit in the trenches.
LeBrenten Wilson (ATH) – Explosive, versatile, and dangerous in space.
Bailey Crawford (DE/EDGE) – A force off the edge, poised for a big year.
Tyler Ky – Another key contributor expected to impact all phases of the game.
Weight Room Work Ethic: “Push to the Limit”
The offseason formula at Cerritos is simple: no gimmicks, just grit. “We push ourselves to the limit daily,” says Franklin. “There’s no secret training method. Just effort, every single day.”
The team is driven by a shared goal: bringing another CIF and State title back to Cerritos High.
Fueling the Fire: A Straightforward Nutrition Plan
When it comes to fueling their bodies, the Dons keep it simple. The unofficial team nutrition motto?
“Eat more. Eat always. Repeat.”
Coach’s Corner: Preparing for the Climb
While the coaching staff hasn’t overhauled their system, they continue to evaluate strategy, depth, and player development daily. Their preparation is rooted in experience, adaptability, and a shared commitment to excellence — both on the field and in the classroom.
Fan Engagement & Community Growth
Looking to grow their fanbase and community presence, Cerritos Football plans to bring the energy off the field as well. Fans can expect giveaways, halftime entertainment, and more ways to get involved this season.
“It’s important to us that the community feels like they’re part of what we’re building here,” Franklin shared.
Biggest Hurdles: Health and Academics
Coach Franklin acknowledges that the road to a championship isn’t without its obstacles. “Our biggest challenges are health and academics,” he said. “Cerritos High is a top-tier academic school, and now we’re matching that level athletically too. Balancing both takes discipline.”
With a strong returning core, a passionate coaching staff, and a clear mission, Cerritos High Football enters the 2025 season ready to leave its mark. The Dons aren't just aiming to compete — they're aiming to dominate.
 – The field general is expected to lead the offense with poise and confidence.
Terrence Grissom (ATH) – A do-it-all athlete who makes big plays all over the field.
Devion Stinson (OL/DL) & Chidebum Ozoagu (OL/DL) – Power and grit in the trenches.
LeBrenten Wilson (ATH) – Explosive, versatile, and dangerous in space.
Bailey Crawford (DE/EDGE) – A force off the edge, poised for a big year.
Tyler Ky – Another key contributor expected to impact all phases of the game.
Weight Room Work Ethic: “Push to the Limit”
The offseason formula at Cerritos is simple: no gimmicks, just grit. “We push ourselves to the limit daily,” says Franklin. “There’s no secret training method. Just effort, every single day.”
The team is driven by a shared goal: bringing another CIF and State title back to Cerritos High.
Fueling the Fire: A Straightforward Nutrition Plan
When it comes to fueling their bodies, the Dons keep it simple. The unofficial team nutrition motto?
“Eat more. Eat always. Repeat.”
Coach’s Corner: Preparing for the Climb
While the coaching staff hasn’t overhauled their system, they continue to evaluate strategy, depth, and player development daily. Their preparation is rooted in experience, adaptability, and a shared commitment to excellence — both on the field and in the classroom.
Fan Engagement & Community Growth
Looking to grow their fanbase and community presence, Cerritos Football plans to bring the energy off the field as well. Fans can expect giveaways, halftime entertainment, and more ways to get involved this season.
“It’s important to us that the community feels like they’re part of what we’re building here,” Franklin shared.
Biggest Hurdles: Health and Academics
Coach Franklin acknowledges that the road to a championship isn’t without its obstacles. “Our biggest challenges are health and academics,” he said. “Cerritos High is a top-tier academic school, and now we’re matching that level athletically too. Balancing both takes discipline.”
With a strong returning core, a passionate coaching staff, and a clear mission, Cerritos High Football enters the 2025 season ready to leave its mark. The Dons aren't just aiming to compete — they're aiming to dominate.)
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