Fountain Valley High football program continues to grow under head coach David Gutierrez
David Guiterrez is all about empowering his players. The Fountain Valley High School varsity football coach has his team heading in the right direction through the early preseason schedule.
Gutierrez, hired as the Barons head coach in 2021 after the resignation of head coach Chris Anderson, is in his second stint at FVHS.
He was an assistant coach from 2010 to 2013 at FVHS, handling the running backs and linebackers, and served as the strength and conditioning coach. He then coached at both Santa Ana High and Servite High before returning to Fountain Valley.
This year he has only five returners who played consistently last season, namely quarterback Noa Banua, linebacker Luke Taylor, wide receiver and kicker Nolan Olivares, defensive back Hayden Espinoza and wide receiver and linebacker Lucas Alexander.
Still, Gutierrez is optimistic about the growth of Fountain Valley football and specifically what lies ahead for this season.
“Our program has doubled since we arrived. We now have about 100 players and the program continues to grow,” he said. “Our approach is to serve the community with purpose, empower our players and pursue excellence.”
Gutierrez’s coaching staff consists of Ryan Washington (quarterback), Trevor Martin (linebacker), Dakota Lambert (cornerback), Evan Huahulu (defensive lineman), Latrell Flowers (running backs), Russ Washington (safety), Michael Kral (freshman head coach), and Rob Martin (strength and conditioning coach).
Of course, the highlight of any FVHS football season is the Battle of the Bell game with longtime rival Edison.
This year’s big game is on Friday, Oct. 20 at Orange Coast College.
“The Bell Game is very significant for the entire community,” Gutierrez said. “It’s always on people’s minds. In each season, there’s a focus on your rival and we like to keep it going.”
Edison has won every Bell game since 2004, including last year’s 51-0 victory. Fountain Valley did own a modest five-game win streak over the Chargers from 1995 to 1999.