Wildcat varsity football head coach Justin Villasenor was awarded Coach of the Week by the Los Angeles Chargers on Oct. 24.
The recognition, sponsored by the NFL’s Chargers, is voted upon by community members for “football coaches who have made a difference in the lives of their players through leadership, hard work, and a special dedication to their young scholar-athletes.”
Wildcat running back Nathan Aceves (‘25) describes Villasenor as, “One of the greatest leaders and the best head coach [BOHS] could possibly have.”
The Chargers support Southern California high schools by selecting nine coaches each week to represent their respective counties: Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange. Nominees are chosen by the Chargers Coach of the Week Selection Committee, which is comprised of California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) administrators and retired coaches.
Villasenor received the nomination email on Tuesday morning. The other nominees from Orange County included Mike Enright of Rancho Alamitos High School and Dusan Ancich of Villa Park High School.
On Thursday, Villasenor was alerted by the Chargers that he was the winner after amassing more than 4,500 votes.
“It means a lot that people in Brea and the community would take the time to vote for me,” Villasenor said.
As the recipient of the award, Villasenor will be presented with a $1,000 check for BOHS’s athletic department.
Villasenor, in his first season as the Wildcats’ varsity head coach, has led the team to an 8-0 record, their most wins since 2018 and their best start since the 2001 season.
It is a well-deserved honor according to wide receiver Ryan Nero (’26). “He works the absolute hardest for our success and it’s just rare finding a coach like him,” Nero said.
“He has created a winning environment,” linebacker Jake Owens (‘25) said.
Receiver Isaak Rivas-Melendez (‘25) acknowledged, “Villasenor finally got the recognition he deserves.”
Leslie • Oct 26, 2024 at 4:16 pm
Congrats to Coach Villasenor!!! 8-0!!
Great article Siena!
Roger Speakman • Oct 26, 2024 at 4:12 pm
This article is well written and captivates the tremendous accomplishments of the student athletes being led by a new coach. There is so much excitement on BOHS undefeated season so far, and this article keyed in on the coaches efforts to put his players first. I like how he leads by example, working hard to bring out the best in his players. I really got a feeling how the players respect their coach and his humble acceptance of the community and the Charger’s award! A very inspirational article.
Mallory Jensen • Oct 26, 2024 at 2:23 pm
Another riveting read by Siena Codekas! Way to capture the positive impact Coach Villasenor has had thus far on his players and community. The Wildcats have had a record year and cannot wait to read more of Siena’s amazing sports writing as their season continues!
Tori • Oct 26, 2024 at 1:46 pm
Wonderfully written article that conveys a warm tribute to this successful coach and his impact on the community!
Raul Villasenor • Oct 25, 2024 at 9:33 pm
Justin Villasenor has always been determined and focused on whatever he puts His hands to. Great job, son. We are all proud of you!
Dad
Roger Speakman • Oct 26, 2024 at 4:23 pm
Raul, your son must have La Mirada community influence in his veins. 78 Neff students had the best place to be raised in So Cal. Our granddaughter wrote this article and it is really cool to have Justin coaching at BOHS. Small world!
Roger Speakman
Leslie Metro)
Sonia Liekhus • Oct 25, 2024 at 6:13 pm
One Brea’s Best! Just ask his players.