Cholla’s Key Takeaways from Combs Loss: Bernal Fitness Report

On Sep 13, 2025

The Pigskin Portfolio: Lessons Learned by Cholla in Loss to Combs

The Cholla coaching team, including head coach Roland Youngling, along with former fellow Amphi assistant coaches David Watson Sr. and Moe Espinoza, took turns motivating their team following their first loss of the season; a 50-0 decision against San Tan Valley Combs. The team discussed how their response to this significant loss will define their character on and off the field.

Cholla Aspires to Combs Level of Performance

Combs, a program that launched its first season in 2011, is what Cholla aspires to be. Combs made it to the 4A state playoffs last year for the first time since 2015. Cholla, on the other hand, hasn’t appeared in the playoffs since 2005, before any current players were even born. Roland Youngling, who is Cholla’s third coach in as many seasons, is trying to rebuild a program that has only had one winning season since 2015.

The Impact of a Loss and How to Bounce Back

After a significant loss, the team is challenged to address what went wrong and how to improve. Youngling emphasized the importance of the team’s reaction to this loss. He referenced Coach Vern Friedli, who coached him at Amphi, and Nick Saban, who said that victory calls for critique to avoid complacency, while a loss requires support and reassurance to get the team back on track.

Cholla Seeks to Improve Performance and Leadership

Cholla’s strategy includes physical training and psychological coaching. They believe in taking hard hits as learning opportunities, investing in player leadership, and working on aspects both on and off the field. Despite the tough loss, they remain optimistic about their future games and are committed to making great strides forward.

Unbeaten Teams in Southern Arizona

While many teams experienced losses this week, five Southern Arizona teams remain unbeaten. Pusch Ridge and St. David both hold a 4-0 record, while Salpointe, Desert View, and Flowing Wells are at 3-0. Pusch Ridge now holds the longest winning streak in Southern Arizona, with 16 games won since last season’s 3A state championship run.

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