Heading into the 2025 football season the West Panthers are entering into a new region. They leave behind an old region consisting of the other Salt Lake City area school and re-enter the region consisting of the western Salt Lake County schools, bringing the total in Region 4 to eight schools.
West hopes to keep its streak of region titles going into this new season — having won the five region titles — while reuniting with the schools they competed against from 2019 through 2022.
“Even though it is a new region we are all pretty familiar with each other. The west side schools have natural rivalries that are fun to be part of. We know there some really good coaches that will have their teams competing at an elevated level,” said West head coach Olossa Solovi
With sixteen returning starters — six on offense and ten on defense — Solovi will be leaning on experience to take the next step after falling to Orem in the second round of the state playoffs last year.
”We have some experience coming back but like anyone else there is a lot of work ahead. My defensive coordinator Charlie Falatea has done magnificent work getting his guys playing hard,“ Solovi said. “On the offense side, veteran quarterback Kamden Lopati has grown on and off the field in the offseason so we’re leaning on him to be the leader we expect. And so far, he has been great this offseason.”
Looking to end the streak of West region dominance are the reigning Region 4 champion West Jordan Jaguars. Coming off of their first region championship in 25 years, coach Ron Halbert is hoping to keep momentum going for the future.
“We are excited for this upcoming year,” Halbert said. “Our players have worked hard during this offseason. We will have a lot of experience returning. We had a few of our young guys get hurt to begin the year last year and they have worked hard to get back at it. We have a slogan this year ’12 miles’. Our players know what that means and are working hard to get there.”
With the Jaguars returning nine starters on offense and defense, they know that that experience will come in handy when it comes to region play.
“We added two teams to our region — West and Hillcrest,“ Halbert said. ”West will be a team that will be incredibly competitive for the region title. Hillcrest looks like they are getting some kids out and will be getting better. Granger has some good guys returning. Cyprus, Hunter, Taylorsville, and Kearns are also getting better every year. It will be a good region with some great games to play for a region title.”
Coming in at No. 3 are the Granger Lancers, who recently have experienced their most success as a program since the mid-to-late 90s. Led by head coach Pete Smolin, the Lancers had to fill in some key pieces but were able to have some players transfer in to help lighten the load a bit.
“We have rebuilt a lot from last year’s successful season, hoping to close some gaps with some young players, stepping up to replace our outstanding graduates,” Smolin said. “(Division 1) recruit Moa Havili (Class of 2027) is a young player on the line who will be a big impact along with Lu Kinikin and Ifo Pili. Our strength will be our D-line. Transfer QB Owen Griffin — 6-foot-4, 195 pounds — will provide a deep ball threat with our talented returning skill players. Along with a powerful running game with 200-pound Sunia Fifita behind a huge returning O-line.”
In the middle of the pack at No. 4 are the Hunter Wolverines. The Wolverines are led by first year coach and Hunter alum, Sione Tongi, who was the defensive coordinator last season. Tongi is hoping to lead Hunter back to region title contention after the team last clinched a title in 2014. Hunters lone state championship came back in 2003.
With six starters on offense and seven on defense, the Wolverines know they will need to plug in experience where they can. But with junior quarterback Isi Moungaafi returning, along with three experienced wide receivers, they are hoping the offense can help lighten the load for the rest of the team.
In at No. 5 are the Taylorsville Warriors. Fifth year head coach Chris Rosales is hoping to improve on the four wins the team achieved last season, which was the most for the Warriors since 2017. Returning ten starters on defense and only five on offense, Taylorsville will rely on an experienced defensive squad to get the school its first playoff win since 2016.
“While seniors have graduated, a strong offseason and a rising group of underclassmen give us reasons to believe this team can take another step forward,” Rosales said.
At No. 6 are the Cyprus Pirates. Head coach Jake Hardcastle is going into his second year with the team and is optimistic about the future of the program.
“Cyprus football is excited about the work we have put in this spring,’ Hardcastle said. ”We have some great veteran leadership, and we are finding our rhythm. Cyprus football will have a new school, facilities, look and a new energy this season.”
With sixteen returning starters from last season, the Pirates are hoping that the returning talent and experience can get them back into playoff contention. The Pirates have not been away from the playoffs long, last going in 2022. They even won a game before falling to Pleasant Grove. The seniors on this team know what that feeling was like and will be hungry to return to the position.
Coming in at No. 7 are the Hillcrest Huskies, who join the region from the 4A classification after a two-year absence. They will see some familiar foes who were in Region 2 from 2017 through 2018. Head coach Robert Kaelin knows it will not be an easy task though. With only six returning starters total, he knows that he will need to rely on team chemistry and focus on wins on and off the field.
“Moving up to 5A is a big challenge, but one we look forward to,” Kaelin said. “To show what we are capable of and the growth we have made as a team and as a program. We come into the season with a lot of energy and excitement and cannot wait to put our work to the test against a talented group of opponents this season. Our region is full of great football players at all positions. There are teams with continued traditions of excellence and teams in the process of building up their programs, but all are very solid football programs led by great coaching staffs.
“Our region has size and strength in every position which will be a good test for us, coming in as the underdog from 4A, but we look forward to the challenge and hope to surprise our region with our own abilities that might be overlooked.
Predicted to come in at No. 8 are the Kearns Cougars.
The Cougars led by John Rowbotham who is in his second year with the team. The hope is that the Cougars can right the ship after a disastrous 0-10 campaign in 2024.
“We’re looking forward to getting back to legendary Kearns football this season,” Rowbotham said. “We are looking forward to competing at a higher level and having a lot of fun this season.”
Kearns only has eight returning starters, but the staff is hoping that this batch of players will be the ones to get the Cougars back to winning region titles and competing in the playoffs.
Region 4 projections
(Preseason rankings are based on coaches’ votes)
1. West Panthers
Head coach: Olosaa Solovi
Entering his seventh season as head coach at West, where he’s posted a 42-24 record over that span. He’s a graduate of West High School.
Coach Olosaa Solovi’s general outlook
“We have a good group of returning guys that gained some great experience last year. We’re also excited for some of the young guys who are showing they’re ready to contribute right away.”
Offensive coordinator: Nick Siuhengalu/Keith Lopati
Offensive coordinator: 34.83 ppg (No. 4 in 5A)
- Six returning starters
- Multiple offense
Returning offensive starters
- Kamden Lopati, QB Jr.
- Louie Hamilton, RB Sr.
- Alema Malieitulua, OL Sr.
- Miller Carter, OL Sr.
- Jaxon Toala, WR Sr.
- Junior Dickson, Slot/RB Jr.
- Pila Tuaefe, OL, Sr.
Key offensive newcomers
- Samiu Taukiuvea, OL, So.
- Efren Siuloa, OL, Sr.
- Monson Vaenuku, WR, So.
- Pau Fonoti, WR, So.
- Aisa Lopati, TE, Sr.
- Fehoko Satini, RB, Sr.
- Isikeli Fehoko, WR, Jr.
- Mani Tu’uao, WR/RB, So.
- Kiti Vakalahi, OL, Fr.
- Hanson Kaufusi, OL, Sr.
- Jose Silva, OL, Sr.
- Sione Havili, WR, Jr.
Defensive coordinator: Charlie Falatea
2024 defense: 26 ppg (No. 13 in 5A)
- Ten returning starters
- Multiple defenses
Returning defensive starters:
- Takeshi Savery, DL, So.
- Dieter Lotulelei, DL, Jr.
- Samanu Tuaone, Nickel, Jr.
- Kisi Fonua, DL, Sr.
- Elijah Lutui, DL, Sr.
- Jaxon Toala, DB, Sr.
- Lester Falatea, DB, So.
- Spencer Mafi, LB, Sr.
- Masiu Aholelei, LB, Sr.
- Justice Reed, DB, Jr.
Key defensive newcomers
- Efren Siuloa, DL, Sr.
- Aisa Lopati, DE/LB, Sr.
- Sione Havili, DB, Jr.
- Fui Pikula, DB, Jr.
- Darius Watson, DB, Jr.
- Zaccaeus Lafo, LB, Sr.
- Leka Fatai, LB, Sr.
- Kellen Wood, DB/LB, Sr.
- Vita Ikakoula, LB, So.
- TJ Vaenuku, LB, Sr.
- Pila Tuaefe, DL, Sr.
2. West Jordan Jaguars
Head coach: Ron Halbert
Heading into his fifth season as head coach after posting an 26-18 record the first four seasons. He’s a long-time assistant coach at several schools in Utah, including six years at West Jordan from 1989 to 1995. He’s a graduate of Roy High School and Southern Utah.
Coach Ron Halbert’s general outlook
“We are excited for this upcoming year. Our players have worked hard this off season. We will have a lot of experience returning. We had a few of our young guys get hurt to begin the year last year and they have worked hard to get back at it. We have a slogan this year 12 miles. Our players know what that means and are working hard to get there.”
Offensive coordinator: Don Dunn
Offensive coordinator: 25 ppg (No. 16 in 5A)
- Nine returning starters
- Spread RPO offense
Returning offensive starters
- Tyson Demke Sr., QB
- Cody Johnson Sr., RB
- Julian Valenzuela Sr., WR
- Nia Ioapo Sr., WR
- Paula Havea Sr., OL
- Bishop Lolohea Sr., OL
- Porter Jones Jr., OL
- Ami Toutai Soph OL
- Leka Skinner Sr., OL
Key offensive newcomers
- Ayden Dunn, Sr., QB
- Tyson Dunn, So., , WR/RB
- Mason, Tevaga, Fr. OL
- Tolupo Tafai, Jr., OL
- Porter Creasy, Sr., WR
- Anthony Fale, Sr., WR
- Boston Dean, Jr., WR
- Daryen Upu Misionare, Sr., RB
- Briggs Jones, Sr., WR
- Jayden Giles, Sr., WR
Defensive coordinator: Dan Creasy
2024 defense: 19.91 ppg (No. 5 in 5A)
- Nine returning starters
- 3-3-5 defense
Returning defensive starters:
- Anthony Fale, Sr., FS
- Jayden Giles, Sr., C
- Porter Creasy, Sr., DB
- Cody Johnson, Sr., DB
- LA Moala, Sr., LBer
- Scooby Tulau, So. LB
- Porter Jones, Jr., DL
- Paula Havea, Sr., NG
- Aaron Hunt, All Region Kicker Sr.
Key defensive newcomers
- Grant Pelu Enele, So., LB
- Nella Tupola, Jr., DL
- Sione Toutai, Jr., DL
- Matt Boone, Jr., DL
- Briggs Jones, Sr., DB
- Tyson Dunn, So., LB
- Daryen Upu Masionare, Sr., C
- Boston Dean, Jr., DB
- Hunter Allgier, Jr., LB
- Darius Lesa Masionare
3. Granger Lancers
Head coach: Pete Smolin
He brought 30 years of coaching experience at the high school and college level to Granger last year and led the program to a 6-6 record in his debut season in 2024. He’s a graduate of Cheltenham High in Pennsylvania and then West Chester University.
Coach Pete Smolin’s general outlook
“We have rebuilt a lot from last year’s successful season, hoping to close some gaps with some young players, stepping up to replace our outstanding graduates. D1 recruit Moa Havili, Jr., a young player on the line will be a big impact along with Lu Kinikin and Ifo Pili our strength will be our D-line.
“Transfer QB Owen Griffin 6’4 195 will provide a deep ball threat with our talented returning skill players. Along with a powerful running game 200-pound Sunia Fifita behind a huge returning O-line.”
Offensive coordinator: Pete Smolin
Offensive coordinator: 33.83 ppg (No. 7 in 5A)
- Six returning starters
- Multiple offense
Returning offensive starters
- Tevita Vaea, Sr., OL
- Lu Kinikini, Sr., TE
- Sunia Fifita, Sr., RB
- Uli Figel, Sr., WR
- Juni Tauataina, Sr., WR
- Ifo Pili, Sr., TE
Key offensive newcomers
- Owen Griffin, Sr., QB
- Mateni Puamau, Sr., RB
- Adam Koffe, Jr. OL
- Lonni Laveo, Jr., OL
- Radley Martin, Sr., OL
- Tauataina, Tali, Jr. WR
- Ethan Sam, Jr., WR
Defensive coordinator: Zach Enosa
2024 defense: 20.25 ppg (No. 8 in 5A)
- Seven returning starters
- Even defense
Returning defensive starters:
- Lu Kinikini, Sr., DL
- Ifo Pili, Sr., DL
- Moa Havili, Jr., DL
- Sunia Fifita, Sr., LB
- Uli Figel, Sr., DB
- Juni Tauataina, Sr., DB
- IzayahEteaki, Sr., DB
Key defensive newcomers
- Radley Martin, Sr., DL
- Shaw Ama, Sr., LB
- Bobo Koffe, Sr., LB
- Se Koffe, Jr., LB
- Mateni Puamau, Sr., DB
- Tauataina, Tali, Jr., DB
- Ethan Sam, Jr., DB
4. Hunter Wolverines
Head coach: Sione Tongi
Taking over as head coach at his alma mater after serving as the Defensive coordinator at Hunter in 2024.
Offensive coordinator: Justice Brusatto
Offensive coordinator: 16.82 ppg (No. 21 in 5A)
- Six returning starters
- Smash mouth offense
Returning offensive starters
- Isi Moungaafi, Jr., QB
- Kalekava Wall, Jr., C
- Melvie Gomez, Jr., RG
- Tristan Scherzinger, Sr., TE
- Connor Anderson, Sr., WR
- Evan Fallis, Sr., WR
- Keagan Lewis, Sr., WR
Defensive coordinator: Rich Tauteoli
2024 defense: 27.18 ppg (No. 19 in 5A)
- Seven returning starters
- 3-4 defense
Returning defensive starters:
- Kapui Masina, Sr., DE
- Landon Graham, Sr., DB
- Falaniko Taeoalii, Sr., OLB
- Dax Henderson, Sr., DB
- Paula Maka’afi, Jr., DT
- Duwayne Le’i, Jr., MLB
- Khang Nguyen, Jr., DB
5. Taylorsville Warriors
Head coach: Chris Rosales
He’s entering his fifth season as head coach at Taylorsville, where his teams own a 7-34 record over that span. He’s a graduate of Hillcrest High School and Eagle Gate College.
Coach Chris Rosales’s general outlook
“Taylorsville heads into the 2025 season with optimism and momentum after posting its best record in seven years. The Warriors are building off a campaign that showcased real progress on both sides of the ball. While seniors have graduated, a strong offseason and a rising group of underclassmen give the Warriors reasons to believe this team can take another step forward.”
Offensive coordinator: Chris Rozy Rosales
Offensive coordinator: 18.82 ppg (No. 19 in 5A)
- Five returning starters
- Spread offense
Returning offensive starters
- Shane Johnson, Jr., OL
- Francisco Vargas, Sr., TE
- Thomas Gallo, Sr., OL
- Dallas Nieuwland, Sr., OL
- Dayton Miera, Sr., TE/RB
- Braden Dukatz, Sr., WR
Key offensive newcomers
- Khi Spight, Jr., QB
- Kymani Taufa, Sr., WR
- Masi Filipe, Sr., RB
- Murad Osman, Sr., WR
- David Jewkes, Jr., WR
- Keyshawn Roseborough, Sr., WR
Defensive coordinator: Tom Filipe
2024 defense: 35.91 ppg (No. 22 in 5A)
- 10 returning starters
- 3-4 defense
Returning defensive starters:
- Masi Filipe, Sr., LB
- Francisco Vargas, Sr., LB
- Jamal Muridi, Jr., DB
- Murad Osman, Sr., DB
- Dayton Miera, Sr., OLB
- Saia Kupu, Sr., DL
- Lotu Faleola, Jr., DB
- Shane Johnson, Jr., DL
- Thomas Gallo, Sr., DL
- Rocky Mataele, Jr., DL
Key defensive newcomers
- Kifi Taukeiaho, Jr., DL
- Payson Tuttle, Sr., DB
- Muridi Hussein, Sr., DB
- Sam Seui, Sr., DL
- Keyshawn Roseborough, Sr., DB
6. Cyprus Pirates
Head coach: Jake Hardcastle
Entering his second season as head coach at Cyprus after a 1-9 debut season in 2024. He spent the previous two seasons as the head coach at Providence Hall with a 12-11 record. He’s a graduate of Wasatch High and Dixie State.
Coach Jake Hardcastle’s general outlook
“Cyprus football is excited about the work we have put in this spring. We have some great veteran leadership and we are finding our rhythm. Cyprus football will have a new school, facilities, look and a new energy this season.”
Offensive coordinator: Dallas Garreaud
Offensive coordinator: 14.5 ppg (No. 24 in 5A)
- Five returning starters
- Pro Spread offense
Returning offensive starters
- Dayton Valdez, Sr., OL
- Aiden Perea, Jr., WR
- Eloy Castro, Sr., OL
- Quinton Garcia, WR
- Dominic Sierra, Jr., OL
Key offensive newcomers
- Cody Campbell, Jr., TE
- Rushton Langford, So., WR
- Brock Langford, Sr., QB
- EJ Toilolo, Sr., OL
- Gunner Fredrickson, So., WR
- Bentley Lowe, So., RB
Defensive coordinator: Craig Fite
2024 defense: 37.4 ppg (No. 25 in 5A)
- Five returning starters
- 3-3-5 defense
Returning defensive starters:
- Schuyler Garlitz, Sr., DB
- David Lorton, Sr., DB
- Quinton Garcia, Sr., DB
- Kacey Skougard, Sr., DB
- Mikey Brunt, So., DE
Key defensive newcomers
- Peyton Naranjo, Sr., LB
- Steele Griggs, Jr., LB
- Hevani kamai, Jr., DL
- Jaden Simons, Jr., LB
7. Hillcrest Huskies
Head coach: Robert Kaelin
The Skyline High graduate is entering his third season as head coach at Hillcrest after tallying a 2-17 record the previous two years He’s a graduate of the University of Utah.
Coach Robert Kaelin’s general outlook
“We are a young team with a lot of newcomers on both sides of the ball. We will be relying on a team approach, spreading the ball around, and focusing on successes and wins on and off the field as we continue to change the culture here at Hillcrest. Moving up to 5A is a big challenge, but one we look forward to, to show what we are capable of and the growth we have made as a team and as a program. We come into the season with a lot of energy and excitement and can’t wait to put our work to the test against a great group of opponents this season.”
Offensive coordinator: Robby Kaelin
Offensive coordinator: 16.11 ppg (No. 24 in 4A)
- Four returning starters
- Spread offense
Returning offensive starters
- K’von Houston, Jr., QB
- Grady Court, Sr., WR
- Cyrus Nielsen, Sr., OL
- Moroni Mahe, Sr., OL
Key offensive newcomers
- Levi Lavaka, Jr., WR
- Kobe Batimana, So., RB
- Miles Ence, Jr., TE
Defensive coordinator: Kalin Huntsman
2024 defense: 38 ppg (No. 25 in 4A)
- Two returning starters
- Multiple defenses
Returning defensive starters:
- Cyrus Nielsen, Sr., DL
- Moroni Mahe, Sr., DL
Key defensive newcomers
- Kobe Batimana, So., SS
- Alani Latu, Jr., FS
- Santos Trinidad, Jr., DE
8. Kearns Cougars
Head coach: John Rowbotham
Entering his second season at Kearns after an 0-10 debut season. He spent the previous two season at Skyline, where his teams posted a 10-12 record. He’s a graduate of Skyline High and Pacific Lutheran University in Washington.
Coach John Rowbotham’s general outlook
“We’re looking forward to getting back to legendary Kearns Football this season. We’re looking forward to competing at a higher level and having a lot of fun this season.”
Offensive coordinator: John Rowbotham
Offensive coordinator: 6 ppg (No. 27 in 5A)
- Four returning starters
- Power Spread offense
Returning offensive starters
- Manuel Deegan, Sr., QB
- Karim Bustos, Sr., WR
- Dayton Vallejo, Sr., RB
- Alex Vanici, Sr., OL
Key offensive newcomers
- Trent Snyder, Sr., TE
- Ayden Mitchell, Sr., OL
- Austin Padgett, Sr., WR
Defensive coordinator: Andy Selcho
2024 defense: 55.2 ppg (No. 27 in 5A)
- Four returning starters
- 3-4 defense
Returning defensive starters:
- Lennox Hamlin, Sr., DE
- Dayton Vallejo, Sr., LB
- Nate Gonzalez, So., CB
- Kobe Tauai, So., NG
Key defensive newcomers
Kurtis, Wrigley, Sr., LB
Gavin Wagner, Sr., LB
Kai Spencer, Sr., S
Vai Angilau léa, Sr., DE