The 2026 high school football season is on the horizon, promising another year of thrilling matchups and standout performances across Ventura County. Ahead of the season's kickoff on Thursday, August 20, with Buena facing Castaic at Valencia High, the eagerly anticipated list of the top 65 players in the region has been unveiled. This comprehensive ranking showcases a mix of established stars and rising talents who are poised to make a significant impact on the gridiron.
Among the elite, Pacifica High School features prominently with two leading athletes. Isaiah Phelps, honored as the Defensive Player of the Year, is a formidable force on defense, having led the state in tackles with 232 last season. Now committed to San Diego State, Phelps also demonstrates his versatility as a powerful running back. His teammate, quarterback Taylor Lee, who is committed to Portland State, shattered Ventura County records last year with an astonishing 53 touchdown passes in a single season and 8 in a single game. Their contributions were instrumental in Pacifica's success, which included Marmonte League, CIF-Southern Section Division 3, and CIF-State Division 1A regional titles.
Oaks Christian's Alifeleti Tuihalamaka, a 6-foot-4, 260-pound defensive lineman, committed to USC in May after an impressive junior season where he recorded eight sacks and 13.5 tackles for a loss. His commanding presence will be crucial for his team. Westlake's Charles Davis, a four-star recruit and a 6-foot-5, 210-pound receiver, also stands out. He caught 30 passes as a junior, 11 of which were touchdowns, and has committed to UC Berkeley, joining his brother Niles.
St. Bonaventure boasts Caleb Pasina, a 6-foot-4, 290-pound lineman who transferred from Las Vegas and quickly became one of the most physically imposing players in the county, drawing offers from top programs like UCLA, Cal, and Texas A&M. Fellow St. Bonaventure player Tony Dargan, a multi-faceted freshman with offers from Oregon and UCLA, recorded 1,142 all-purpose yards and 10 touchdowns, in addition to setting a county freshman record in the 100 meters. These athletes, along with others like Kingston Celifie of Calabasas and Alijah Royster of Pacifica, promise an exhilarating season filled with exceptional plays and intense competition.
The upcoming season will highlight the dedication and skill of these young athletes. From veteran players showcasing their refined abilities to newcomers making their mark, each game will be a testament to their hard work and passion for football. As the teams prepare for their opening games, the anticipation builds for what is expected to be a memorable season for high school football in Ventura County.
