Yuba City High school Football Season Preview

Yuba City Honkers – 2025 Football Offseason Report

Offseason Focus

The Yuba City Honkers are entering 2025 with a clear objective: maximize strength and speed across the board.

“Our guys have committed to getting bigger, faster, and stronger,” said Coach Lessard. “It’s been the foundation of everything we’re doing this offseason.”

Special Offseason Events

To sharpen their edge, the Honkers have been actively competing in AAU 7v7 events with their skill players and Trench Wars 5v5 competitions for the linemen. These events not only improve performance under pressure but also build vital chemistry and confidence.

Notable Additions & Departures

The coaching staff has seen a major change as the former Defensive Coordinator takes the reins at Colusa High School, becoming the youngest head coach in the state of California. It’s a proud moment for the program and a testament to the staff’s talent pipeline.

Players to Watch

Ulysses Huizar (2028 | OL/DL): A dominant force in the trenches. Started 8 games as a freshman and is expected to anchor both sides of the line this season.

Elias Hernandez (2026 | OL): At 6'4", 280 lbs, Hernandez is the captain and tone-setter for the Honkers. A physical leader who commands respect in the huddle and the weight room.

Weight Lifting & Fitness

While not flashy, the offseason grind has been intense. The players and coaches are fully bought-in, and the team’s discipline and consistency in strength training are already translating into noticeable gains on the field.

Coaching Perspective

Yuba City’s coaching staff is more committed than ever.

“This is the earliest we’ve ever begun our structured offseason development,” said Lessard. With a 20-man coaching staff all rowing in the same direction, the program is set to turn heads. “Our AAU involvement and offseason buy-in is unlike anything we’ve seen before.”

Fan Engagement & Community Impact

The Honkers are leading with service this offseason.

Partnering with local organizations, players have helped plant trees, renovate elementary schools, and clean parks.

A huge collaboration with the Kiwanis Club led to a $75,000 donation to build a brand-new weight room—a game-changer for the entire athletic department.

“Community support is everything to us. We want to be more than a football team—we want to be role models.”

Biggest Challenges Ahead

Yuba City’s 2024 season saw a young team struggle against elite competition in one of the toughest leagues in the area.

But this year, things feel different.

“We’ve grown, we’ve learned, and we’re ready to compete at the highest level,” said Coach Lessard. “This is the year we take the next step.”