Going undefeated is one of the hardest accomplishments in all of sports, especially in team competition. From my earliest days in little league baseball, flag football, and park-league basketball, through junior high, high school, college athletics, and later professional sports as an athlete, coach, and eventually a General Manager, I know firsthand the rarity of a perfect season. I have coached and managed many successful teams, but only once have I ever been part of a group that went undefeated. It is a special and elusive achievement earned through discipline, leadership, resilience, and the willingness to pay the price day after day.
As a former student-athlete at Golden West College, my first words must be heartfelt congratulations to the coaches, players, trainers, and staff who achieved this historic moment. Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator Nick Mitchell, Offensive Coordinator John Shipp, Director of Football Operations and Assistant Offensive Line Coach George Pascoe, Defensive Line Coach Odell Harrington, Offensive Line and Strength Coach Christian Rodriquez, Offensive Line Coach Pat Laumatia, Tight End Coach Jordan Padilla, Offensive Assistant Ted McMillen, Running Backs Coach Robert Moore, and the invaluable trainer Kirsten Marony — every member of this program has poured their energy into building something remarkable.
As a track and field student at GWC years ago, I often watched the Rustlers practice: on the field, in the weight room, analyzing film, learning plays, and grinding through the long hours that championship teams demand. That same commitment was visible this year as the Rustlers worked through injuries, leaned on the expertise of the GWC training staff, and continued to fight week after week until history was made.
Rustlers players celebrate during their undefeated regular season run.
Photo by Sean Sydnor
On November 8, the No. 1 state-ranked Golden West College Rustlers completed a perfect 10–0 regular season with a comeback victory over No. 10 Fullerton College, winning 33–22. Trailing at halftime, the Rustlers demonstrated grit, composure, and a championship mindset. The win secured the outright National Central League championship — the program’s first conference title since 2021 and sixth in its history.
Golden West delivered a balanced offensive attack, amassing 520 total yards: 284 through the air and 236 on the ground. Quarterback Kamakawiwo’ole was outstanding, completing 23 of 34 passes for 284 yards and four touchdowns. Schmidt posted a dominant performance with nine receptions for 166 yards and three scores. On the ground, Thomas rushed for 120 yards on just 10 carries and added a touchdown, while Aaron Mitchell contributed an impressive 24 carries for 118 yards. Defensively, Brandon Soleau once again anchored the unit, recording 11 tackles and one of the team’s three interceptions.
Yet, as rewarding as an undefeated season is, it is also preparation for what comes next. From conversations with coaches and players, it is clear the Rustlers are focused and grounded. Coach Pascoe remains his usual positive, humble, and direct self — a steady presence for this team as they shift their sights from perfection to the pursuit of a championship.
On Sunday, November 9, Golden West received the No. 1 seed for the Southern California Regional Playoffs. With Ventura College suffering its first loss of the season, the Rustlers stand alone as the only undefeated National Division team in the state. Their perfect record earned them a first-round bye as they prepare for the SCFA semifinals on November 29.
With a newly implemented six-team playoff format, Golden West will host the winner of the quarterfinal matchup between No. 5 Cerritos College (8–2) and No. 4 Ventura College (9–1), who face off on November 22. Southern League champion Saddleback College (9–1) received the No. 2 seed and the other first-round bye. They await either No. 6 El Camino College (8–2) or No. 3 Mt. San Antonio College (9–1), who also square off November 22. The Southern California Championship is scheduled for December 6, with the victor advancing to host the 3C2A State Championship on December 13 against the Northern California champion.
The NorCal bracket features defending state champion College of San Mateo (9–1) as the No. 1 seed, joined by Modesto Junior College (8–2), Diablo Valley College (9–1), City College of San Francisco (7–3), Fresno City College (6–4), and Butte College (8–2). The road to a state title will not be easy — but undefeated teams rarely shy away from tough roads.
At the end of the day, a perfect regular season is meaningful not only for the coaches and players, but also for the athletic administration, the student body, alumni, and the entire Golden West College community. It is a testament to what can be accomplished when preparation meets opportunity, when heart meets talent, and when a team refuses to quit.
The quest now continues — unbeaten, unshaken, and united — as the Rustlers begin their march toward a state championship.
