The Santa Ynez High School football program is entering the 2025 season with a mix of renewed optimism and the urgency of a rebuilding year. After a challenging 2024 campaign that saw the Pirates struggle for consistency on both sides of the ball, head coach Josh McClurg and his staff are confident that returning quarterback Connor Pritchard and a promising blend of skill-position players and defensive grit can help restore the program’s competitive edge in the tough Central Coast Athletic Association.
Pritchard’s Return Brings Stability at QB
One of the biggest positives for the Pirates is the return of senior quarterback Connor Pritchard, who started last season and gained valuable experience navigating the ups and downs of varsity football. While 2024 was far from perfect, Pritchard showed flashes of poise in the pocket and improved decision-making as the year progressed. His ability to read defenses and extend plays with his legs is expected to be a cornerstone of Santa Ynez’s offense this fall.
Coach McClurg believes Pritchard’s offseason work will pay off immediately.
> “Connor has matured a lot as a leader and understands what it takes to move the chains,” McClurg said. “We’re going to give him the tools and trust him to make the right calls at the line of scrimmage.”
The Pirates plan to open up the playbook, mixing quick passing concepts with designed quarterback runs to take advantage of Pritchard’s athleticism. His rapport with returning receivers could prove to be one of the team’s biggest offensive strengths.
Skill Positions Ready to Step Up
While graduation losses hit the Pirates in key spots, Santa Ynez is not short on talent at the skill positions. Several young but dynamic playmakers will be asked to contribute right away.
In the backfield, junior running back Eli Martinez brings a north-south running style with the burst to break long gains, while sophomore Jordan Vega could provide a change of pace with his agility and vision. On the outside, returning wideout Caleb Thompson will be Pritchard’s top target, combining reliable hands with the ability to win contested catches.
McClurg also hinted at using tight end Ryan Colton more in the passing game, giving the Pirates another red-zone option and a mismatch against smaller defenders. If the offensive line — anchored by seniors Jacob Moreno and Tyson Ortega — can hold its ground, the Pirates’ offense could be far more balanced and explosive than last year.
Defense Focused on Toughness and Fundamentals
Defensively, Santa Ynez knows it must be better against both the run and the pass to compete in league play. Last season’s struggles in containing big plays often put the Pirates in early holes, but the coaching staff has emphasized discipline and tackling technique throughout the offseason.
The front seven will be led by senior linebacker Ethan Ramirez, a vocal leader with a nose for the football, and defensive lineman Marcus Bailey, whose power and quick first step could disrupt opposing backfields. In the secondary, safety Landon Ortiz will play a key role in both coverage and run support.
McClurg is placing a strong emphasis on versatility, with several two-way players expected to contribute on defense to keep the rotation fresh.
> “We know we can’t afford to give up easy yards,” McClurg said. “Our goal is to be physical, communicate well, and make opponents earn every point they get.”
Schedule and Outlook
The Pirates’ 2025 schedule features a challenging non-league slate designed to prepare the team for the intensity of league play. Early matchups against programs with physical run games will test the defense immediately, while rivalry games will bring added pressure for Pritchard and the offense to perform.
While expectations are measured, there’s genuine belief that the Pirates can surprise opponents if they execute their game plan and limit mistakes. The key will be starting fast in games, leaning on their veteran quarterback, and trusting the defense to keep them in close contests.
> “We’re not just looking to rebuild — we want to compete right now,” Pritchard said. “We’ve put in the work, and now it’s about proving we can do it when it counts.”
If the leadership of Pritchard, the development of young talent, and a tougher defensive identity all come together, Santa Ynez could take a significant step forward in 2025 — and perhaps return to the playoff conversation sooner than many expect.
