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Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) completed a season for the ages, finishing with a flawless 11-0 record and claiming a dramatic 13-12 victory in the American Division Bowl which took place on December 7th. This achievement marks the Lobos’ first undefeated season in the program’s 76-year history and highlights their dominance throughout the season.
MPC’s remarkable season was driven by standout individual performances and team-wide contributions, with Hollister Baler alumni playing a key role alongside the team’s decorated stars. Receiver Devin Ellison was named the conference’s Offensive Most Valuable Player after leading the state with 16 touchdown catches. Defensive lineman Kefa Pereira earned Defensive Most Valuable Player honors with a team-high six sacks, and head coach Ronnie Palmer was awarded Coach of the Year for guiding the Lobos to their historic perfect season.
Equally critical to this success were the contributions of former Hollister Baler’ standouts Ricky Navarro (DL/OL), Jayden Freidt (DB), Joey Fernandez (K/P), Chineme Mgbechi-Ezeri (OL), and Angel Zendejas (OL). Their impact on both sides of the ball was instrumental in securing MPC’s undefeated record and American Bowl championship.
A Season of Unmatched Excellence
MPC’s success was built on a balanced effort across offense, defense, and special teams. The Lobos’ offense generated 492 points across 11 games, averaging an impressive 45 points per contest, while their defense consistently stifled opponents and forced critical turnovers. Special teams also delivered in high-pressure moments throughout the season.
Freidt, a former Hollister Baler, earned 1st Team All-Conference (unanimous) honors as the top defensive back in the conference. His five interceptions, including several key takeaways in crucial games, helped secure the Lobos’ perfect season.
On the offensive line, Chineme Mgbechi-Ezeri, another Hollister alum, also garnered 1st Team All-Conference honors after starting all 10 games at tackle. His exceptional blocking was pivotal in helping the Lobos finish at the top of multiple offensive statistical categories. This line provided protection for quarterback Eric Gibson, who threw 27 touchdown passes, and created running lanes for tailback Kieryus Boone. Boone led the state in rushing with 1,300 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 131.8 yards per game.
Special teams played a pivotal role in MPC’s success, contributing 9 field goals and 60 extra points to finish #2 in the state in scoring. Joey Fernandez, excelling as both a kicker and punter, led the American Conference in punt average and consistently sent kickoffs out of the end zone, effectively neutralizing opposing offensive yard gains. His standout performance, combined with the collective efforts of MPC’s entire special teams unit, solidified them as one of the most effective and reliable groups in the state.
Victory in the American Division Bowl
The Lobos faced their toughest test of the season in the American Division Bowl against an undefeated (10-0) De Anza College team. Despite the high stakes, the Lobos rose to the occasion. The game’s decisive moment came in the third quarter when a defensive interception was returned for a touchdown, giving the Lobos a lead they never relinquished.
De Anza staged a late comeback, scoring a touchdown in the final minutes. However, the Lobos’ defense heavily pressured the ensuing extra point attempt, forcing it wide left and preserving MPC’s one-point lead. In the game’s final moments, the defense stood strong once again, stopping De Anza’s last drive to seal the win.
Building a Legacy
This season marks the Lobos’ fourth consecutive American Golden Coast Conference title and their fifth straight bowl game appearance under head coach Ronnie Palmer. Over the past four seasons, Palmer has built a program defined by preparation, teamwork, and resilience, resulting in a near-perfect conference record.
The Lobos’ roster was packed with award-winning talent. Ellison, Boone, Gibson, Mgbechi-Ezeri, and Nate Olivas were all named to the All-Conference First Team Offense, while Pereira, Roger Guillory, Noah Garry, Freidt, and Maurice Mathis earned spots on the First Team Defense. Also recognized for outstanding contributions included running back Ethan Williams, defensive back Ameir Pickett, and punter/kicker Joey Fernandez.
Former Hollister Balers were particularly instrumental in the Lobos’ success. Ricky Navarro was a relentless force on the defensive line; Freidt anchored the secondary with a conference-leading interception total; Fernandez displayed power and accuracy as a kicking specialist; and Zendejas and Mgbechi-Ezeri provided critical strength on the offensive line. Together, their efforts helped power MPC to its historic season.
Looking Ahead
As the Lobos celebrate this extraordinary achievement, discussions about advancing to the National Division next season are already underway. With a strong foundation and proven track record of success, MPC is well-positioned for future challenges and continued growth.
For now, the Lobos can take pride in a season defined by excellence, hard work, and resilience. Their perfect 11-0 record and American Bowl victory will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest accomplishments in MPC football history.
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