“Friday night football is a different feeling than any other, it’s playing for your city and representing your school,” reflects running back Koa Herrera on his time with the Dons. A senior this year, Herrera has already rushed for over 500 yards and three touchdowns through seven games. This impressive performance has played a major role in helping the Dons reach second place in the Channel League with an overall record of 5-2. 

When asked about his hopes for the season, Herrera replied, “I think it’s going pretty well, two losses were against some pretty good teams so I’m not feeling too bad about that, I mean of course being 9-1 or 10-0 would be better, but I know we want to end out the season at 8-2 and I think we can do it.” With only three games left in the regular season, Herrera is sure to make his mark as the Dons head toward the playoffs. 

Football has always been an important part of Herrera’s life as he has been playing since the young age of seven, a decision that was largely influenced by his dad who he says “was a football player when he was younger and wanted [Herrera] to carry on his legacy.” Herrera has certainly done that and more through four seasons tearing it up for the Dons. “My years at SB have been great, you know SB has really done me good”, said Herrera on his time with Santa Barbara High.

Looking towards the future, Herrera hopes to continue playing football at the collegiate level, stating that he’s “working in the recruitment process right now, just trying to send out emails, send out my film, talk to college coaches…I’ve talked to a couple and we’ll see how it goes.” This is an important moment in any high school athlete’s life, so look out for updates on Herrera as he advances to the next chapter of his football career.

For now though, Herrera is focused on the present which includes being a member of the Homecoming Court, an honor of which he says, “I’m super excited, it feels good knowing people nominated me, it feels amazing. Hopefully I win, you know, that would be great” In addition to this he will be suiting up for his last regular season home game on October 27th, so be sure to come out and watch Herrera light it up one last time.