Rio Linda High School Football Season Preview

Offseason Focus: Strength, Academics & Multi-Sport Participation The Rio Linda High School football program has wasted no time laying the foundation for a new era. Under the guidance of returning Head Coach Jack Garceau, the offseason focus has revolved around three core pillars: getting bigger, faster, and stronger in the weight room, raising the team GPA, and encouraging players to participate in multiple sports on campus. “We want well-rounded athletes and students who are committed both on and off the field,” said Coach Garceau. Summer Competitions Ahead To build chemistry and evaluate progress, the Knights will participate in two competitive offseason events: June 21: Pittsburgh Football 7on7 & Big Man Competition (Pittsburgh High School) June 27: UC Davis 7on7 Tournament (UC Davis) These tournaments will serve as both a developmental tool and a valuable bonding experience for a team looking to re-establish its winning identity. Return of a Championship Coaching Staff One of the most impactful offseason developments is the return of the 2017-2019 coaching staff, a group that led the Knights to three straight playoff appearances and a 2018 CIF 5AA State Championship. That legendary 2018 team, which featured Cameron Skattebo’s record-breaking 3,550 rushing yards, is still talked about in Northern California football circles. The return of this staff brings high expectations and a culture rooted in accountability, toughness, and tradition. Players to Watch: Young Talent on the Rise Several Knights are poised to shine in 2025, including a mix of experienced seniors and promising underclassmen: Joseph Kalanui (Sr.) – A versatile threat at TE/RB/DE, standing 6'1" and 195 lbs Imara Bell (Sr.) – WR/DB with explosive playmaking ability Joseph Corey (Sr.) – Physical RB/LB at 6'0", 185 lbs Ronald Pruitt (Jr.) – A dominant 6'3", 300-lb force in the trenches Amari Loharsingh (Soph.) – A dynamic utility player already turning heads Weight Room Transformation Underway For many Rio Linda players, this is their first true introduction to a structured strength program, and the results are already showing. “We’re seeing huge gains,” Garceau said. “This summer, we’re turning it up another notch.” Nutrition: Simple but Effective Rio Linda emphasizes cutting out soda and energy drinks, and ensures players receive at least one quality team meal per week during the season to promote performance and health. Coaching Mindset: Culture Overhaul Coach Garceau and his staff are fully committed to restoring the program’s proud tradition, which includes 17 playoff appearances from 1998 to 2019. The team has struggled in recent years, but the leadership is confident that a return to its core values will get the Knights back on track. “We’re rebuilding a program and a culture. We’ve done it before—and we’re ready to do it again,” Garceau affirmed. Looking Ahead: Challenges and Motivation Among the biggest challenges this season is re-establishing belief and consistency. After going 12-42 since 2019, the program understands the road back to success isn’t easy, but with the return of battle-tested coaches, a surge of motivated athletes, and a commitment to long-term development, Rio Linda is ready to fight its way back into the spotlight.