The San Gabriel Valley All-Area football team for the 2025 season was announced, featuring standout athletes from various local high schools. The selections, published in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune, Pasadena Star-News, and Whittier Daily News, highlight the top performers in the region during an exciting season.
Elijah Gavia, a senior offensive and defensive lineman from Rio Hondo Prep, has been named the San Gabriel Valley player of the year. Gavia played a pivotal role in his team’s success, contributing to their impressive 15-1 record and third consecutive CIF Southern Section championship. Coach Mark Carson praised Gavia, stating, “He’s deserving. He’s a freak athlete with size and was everything to us during the best season in school history.”
Gavia’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. He anchored the Kares’ offensive line, which helped the team amass an astounding 4,372 yards and 81 touchdowns this season, leading to an average of 273 rushing yards per game. On defense, Gavia excelled as a run-stopper, recording 46 tackles and two sacks. His ability to influence the game was evident when he intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown during a critical playoff match against Thousand Oaks.
Key Achievements and Honors
The Kares’ championship journey included a decisive 29-7 victory over Redondo Union in the CIF-SS Division 5 championship game. Gavia’s efforts earned him the CIF-SS Division 5 defensive player of the year accolade and his third consecutive selection to the All-CIF team. Additionally, he was recognized as the Gold Coast League lineman of the year for the second year running.
Among other top performers, DJ Mitchell from La Habra was honored as the Whittier Daily News player of the year. The junior quarterback led his team to an impressive 27-13 victory over San Jacinto in the CIF-SS Division 4 championship, marking the school’s eighth CIF-SS title. Mitchell threw for 2,678 yards and 30 touchdowns and added 768 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns to his stats.
In the San Gabriel Valley Tribune, Isaiah Arriaza from Damien was recognized for his outstanding season, throwing for 2,873 yards and 27 touchdowns. His performance has solidified his legacy as one of the top quarterbacks in the area’s history.
Additional Honors and Recognitions
The All-Area selections also included notable players such as Trey Freking from South Pasadena, who was named the offensive player of the year after rushing for 2,013 yards and scoring 31 touchdowns. JD Sanchez from Charter Oak received the defensive player of the year award for his exceptional contributions, leading his team with 108 tackles.
The list of honorees continues with Jason Brown from Muir, who was recognized as the lineman of the year, and Isaiah Lucero from Northview, who earned the title of two-way player of the year. Freshman Jacory Coleman from Baldwin Park was acknowledged as the newcomer of the year, showcasing his potential for future seasons.
The 2025 San Gabriel Valley Varsity All-Area football team reflects a season of outstanding athleticism and teamwork. With each player contributing significantly to their respective teams, the future of football in the region looks bright.
