Season Preview: Orange Lutheran Football 2025
Orange Lutheran football enters the 2025 season with high expectations and national attention. Following one of the program's strongest seasons in decades, the Lancers return a veteran core and welcome a standout incoming class as they aim to contend for both a Trinity League and CIF Championship.
OLu begins the year ranked #24 in the nation, #7 in California, and #7 in the CIF Southern Section, according to MaxPreps preseason rankings. The varsity roster features nearly 20 players with significant game experience, forming the foundation of a team ready to take the next step after a narrow CIF-SS Division 1 semifinal loss last fall.
"We're returning 23 players with meaningful varsity experience, along with an outstanding group of younger athletes—including a few freshmen who will contribute right away," said Head Coach Rod Sherman. "Our offseason and summer have been incredibly productive, and we've built real depth across the board."
A National-Caliber Schedule
The Lancers open the season with a marquee road game against #11 nationally ranked Miami Northwestern in Florida. It's one of six opponents ranked in the national Top 30 on OLu's schedule—further proof of the program's willingness to compete at the highest level. The Lancers will also travel to Arizona to face Top 35-ranked Basha High School from Chandler.
This level of competition has become the norm for the Lancer program. The coaching staff embraces the challenge as a key part of the team's identity and growth.
Defensive Strength and Depth
The heart of this year's team begins on defense—specifically the defensive line. Senior Auma Jennings and sophomore Markus Fakatou, both returning All-Trinity League selections, lead a unit that features five players with Division I offers. Their consistent production last season helped anchor a formidable defense that will again be key to OLu's success.
At linebacker, seniors Christian Panapa and Mason Reyes return as starters, bringing toughness and experience to the middle of the defense. Senior Hunter Schnakenberg shifts from safety to nickelback, adding speed and versatility to the group.
In the secondary, the Lancers return multiple starters, including juniors Matthew Zapien and Jackson Perez, and sophomores CJ Washington, Anhor and King Johnson. Together, they form one of the most athletic and experienced secondaries the program has fielded in recent memory.
Offensive Talent Across the Board
Up front, the Lancer offensive line is anchored by seniors Sam Utu and Brandon Garcia, along with junior Lucas Rhoa—a trio of returning starters with Division I potential. Senior Jackson Venator adds veteran presence to the unit, while a strong group of juniors and sophomores builds valuable depth.
At the skill positions, senior Sean Morris and junior Jae Nembhard and  will share the backfield duties. Both backs are dynamic runners and effective receivers, offering flexibility and firepower for Offensive Coordinator Austin Pettis ('07).
The wide receiver group is the strongest in recent years, returning varsity contributors like senior Markus Kier and juniors Nicholas Bland and Christopher Flores. A group of rising underclassmen will also push for playing time and add explosiveness to the passing game.
At quarterback, multiple players have impressed during the offseason and will compete for the starting role in fall camp.
Looking Forward
OLu also returns experience in the kicking game, including All-Southern California kicker Aiden Migirdichian, long snapper Konner Hawkins, and punter Kaden Hawkins.
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"Last year was a transition year with two new coordinators, and the way our players absorbed the scheme was impressive," Coach Sherman said. "Now, with a full offseason behind us, I expect us to be more technically sound, more multiple in our schemes, and sharper in execution. We've focused on building situational awareness and football IQ—this team is ready."
The season kicks off on August 23 in Florida against national powerhouse Miami Northwestern—a unique travel experience that sets the tone for a year built on challenge, unity, and belief.
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"I absolutely love the young men I get to coach," Sherman added. "They're talented football players, but more importantly, they're great students and great teammates. At OLu, we're building something that transforms lives while competing for championships. These young men are Lancers—committed, humble, and driven to become the best versions of themselves. God has truly blessed this team."
