As the offseason progresses, the Lassen High School football team is gearing up for a successful 2025 season with focused training, key player development, and a renewed commitment to team chemistry. Head Coach Jason McMullen shares insights on what’s been happening during the offseason and what fans can look forward to in the upcoming season.
Offseason Focus: Strength and Speed
This offseason, the primary focus for the Lassen High football team has been on strength training and speed development. The players have been hitting the weight room hard, focusing on building the physical foundation necessary for a successful season. Speed training has been equally important, as the team works to enhance their agility and quickness for both offensive and defensive plays. "We're pushing our players to reach new milestones in the weight room and increase their speed to give us an edge on the field," Coach McMullen explains.
Training and Development
Although the team isn’t attending any camps or tournaments this offseason, the focus has been on internal development. The team is laying the groundwork for a strong spring practice, ensuring every player is prepared physically and mentally for the challenges ahead. Special attention has been given to building unity among players, helping them work together in a way that will strengthen their performance when the season starts.
Roster Changes: Talent on the Rise
The team will be losing three key offensive players and three key defensive players this year. However, Coach McMullen is confident in the ability of their incoming JV players to fill these positions. “We have a lot of talent coming up from the JV team,” he says. “We believe these players will not only step into their roles but will help elevate the team’s performance overall.”
Players to Watch: Returning Stars
Lassen High is returning some serious talent, and fans can expect big things from these athletes. Dathen Moore and Dowan Stephens, both among the top rushers in the state, are back for another season and will be crucial in leading the offense. The offensive line will feature three standout players: Jacob Alfaro, Rowan Guizar, and Hunter Brown, who will play pivotal roles in creating space for the backs and protecting the quarterback.
On the defensive side, linebacker Tyson Conoboy is poised to anchor the defense. With three strong returners on the defensive line and a speed-heavy secondary, the team is ready to shut down opponents and create turnovers.
Training Storylines: Building Strength and Speed
The weight room has been buzzing with energy as several players have reached impressive feats, joining the 500, 600, and even 700-pound clubs (combining bench press and squat totals). “Coach West has really taken our strength program to the next level,” says Coach McMullen. "He’s also incorporated plyometrics to help with team speed, ensuring we’re strong, fast, and ready to compete at the highest level."
Team Bonding and Leadership
While nutrition programs haven’t been a focal point this offseason, the coaching staff has emphasized the importance of proper fitness, conditioning, and recovery. Team building is happening off the field as well, as Coach McMullen and his staff are working to create a tight-knit squad that supports each other both on and off the field.
Coaching Approach: Fine-Tuning Strategies
The coaching staff has been hard at work, attending clinics and refining strategies for the upcoming season. With spring practices around the corner, the coaches are preparing to implement new approaches to further strengthen the team's playbook and adapt to the evolving competition.
Challenges Ahead: Staying Focused
As the season approaches, the biggest challenge the team faces will be maintaining focus and unity. With several key players stepping into new roles, ensuring that the team meshes together seamlessly will be essential for a successful season. Coach McMullen notes that staying focused on their collective goals will be a priority, as it will be key to reaching their full potential.
Looking Ahead: High Expectations for the Season
The 2025 season promises to be an exciting one for Lassen High School football. With a mix of returning stars and rising talent, the team is ready to face the competition head-on. Coach McMullen is confident that the work being put in this offseason will pay off in the form of a strong, unified team that is ready to make an impact on the field.
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