Mustang Football

Priorities: Family, Religion, School, Football

Players are always representing the program and are required to be leaders in the school. We will develop our yearly Core Values at our yearly retreat and each player will share with his family.

Consequences for repeated detrimental behavior to the team may include suspension and dismissal.

Non-Negotiables: Be punctual, be present and be respectful. If a player is going to be late or miss a practice, they need to send a HUDL message to the coach responsible for their level.

“The true test of a man’s character is what he does when no one is watching”
– John Wooden

Grading policy:
PHS checks grades at the semester, and if a student is not passing 5 classes, he is ineligible for the remainder of the season. We strive to be great in the classroom, so barely passing 5 classes is not our standard.

Communication:
Please contact the following coaches for questions

Varsity: Coach Cohen jcohen@dcsdk12.org

Junior Varsity: Coach Burke

Freshmen: Coach Salazar

Our booster club will send out an email on Sundays with the week ahead calendar and a message from Coach Cohen. The calendar is routinely updated at pondofootball.com. Players will get communication from their coaches via the HUDL app for any last minute changes.

Playing Time:
At the Varsity level, we are trying to win the game with the players who have earned the right to compete and our staff feels gives us the best chance to win. We are constantly evaluating players through practice, film and lower level competitions. At the JV and C team level, as long as players have attended practice, know the plays, and it is safe for them (and their teammates) to compete, they will get some playing time. If they will not be entering a contest, our coach will let you know prior to the game with the reason. Players are encouraged to speak with their position coach about room for improvement, and not immediately go to Coach Cohen. Our position coaches set the depth chart and rotation.

Chain of Communication:
Position Coach → Coordinator → Head Coach → AD/Principal

We are always willing to discuss any issues that arise but ask that it is handled at the lowest level. Any issues of program safety should be immediately addressed with Coach Cohen.

Parent Expectations:
Please be mindful of what is said on the ride home and the dinner table. It is essential to our program’s success that our players believe in and trust our coaches. If there are concerns, the player should discuss with his position coach so we are all on the same page. Know that the coaching staff spends immense time and effort in maximizing your player and our team’s potential.

Injury Protocol:
If injured, players will need to see Chris Mathewson, our Athletic Trainer, before going to a specialist. He will then advise further steps and is truly an asset to our program.

After 10+ years as a Head Coach at Ponderosa and truly believe this is a special place and a first class program. I am proud to be a part of Ponderosa Football and am incredibly excited for this fall!