Narbonne High School Football: The Heart of Harbor City

In the sun-soaked streets of Harbor City, California, Nathaniel Narbonne High School football isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. The Gauchos, clad in green and gold, charge onto the field at their campus stadium with a ferocity that echoes through the Los Angeles Unified School District. From their storied state championship to their fierce Marine League battles, Narbonne embodies the grit and glory of Friday night lights in Southern California. This 1500-word journey explores the Gauchos’ legacy, dissects their 2024 season, spotlights the players and coaches driving the charge, and reveals why Narbonne football is a cornerstone of Harbor City pride. Ready to feel the Gaucho spirit? Let’s dive in.

What Makes Narbonne Football Special?

California is a football hotbed, and Narbonne High School stands as a titan in the CIF Los Angeles City Section. Located at 24300 South Western Avenue, this public school serves a diverse community with a passion for gridiron greatness. The Gauchos aren’t just a team; they’re a symbol of resilience, uniting Harbor City and nearby Lomita through hard-fought victories and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

What sets Narbonne apart? It’s the blend of tradition, talent, and tenacity. With a 2015 state championship and a history of dominating the City Section, the Gauchos have earned their stripes. Their games draw thousands to their stadium, where the roar of the crowd and the beat of the drumline create an electric atmosphere. Despite challenges in 2024, Narbonne’s legacy as “Domus Victorum” (Home of the Victors) burns bright.

Narbonne High School Football: The Essentials

Here’s a snapshot of what defines the Narbonne Gauchos:

This overview sets the stage—let’s unpack the Gaucho story.

A Glorious Past: Narbonne’s Football Legacy

Narbonne High School, established in 1925, has deep roots in Harbor City. Named after Nathaniel A. Narbonne, a sheep rancher who once owned the surrounding land, the school adopted the Gaucho mascot—a nod to the rugged Argentinian cowboy. The football program gained traction in the 1980s but truly soared in the 2000s under coach Manuel Douglas.

The pinnacle came in 2015, when Narbonne went 14-2 and defeated Concord Clayton Valley 28-14 in the CIF Division 1-A state championship, becoming the first LAUSD team since 1917 to claim a state title. Running back Sean Riley (93 yards, two TDs) and quarterback Roman Ale (117 passing yards) led a balanced attack that showcased the Gauchos’ spread offense. From five consecutive City Section titles (2014-2018) to producing NFL talents like Traeshon Holden, Narbonne’s legacy is undeniable.

Key Moments in Narbonne History

• 1980s: Early success under coach Don Mott lays the groundwork for future dominance.

• 2015: A 14-2 season culminates in a CIF Division 1-A state championship, a historic first for LAUSD.

• 2018: The City Section title is vacated due to an ineligible player, a setback that fuels resilience.

• 2024: A controversial season ends with a stripped title but showcases emerging stars.

Narbonne’s ability to rebound from adversity keeps them a force in California football.

The 2024 Season: Triumph and Turmoil

The 2024 season was a wild ride for the Gauchos. Narbonne started strong, posting a 7-6 record and capturing the CIF LA City Section Open Division championship with a 75-31 rout of San Pedro on November 29, 2024. Their playoff run included wins over Dorsey (47-13) and Birmingham (27-7), showcasing a high-octane offense led by junior quarterback Jaden O’Neal, an Oklahoma commit.

However, the season took a dramatic turn. Four Marine League rivals—Banning, Carson, Gardena, and San Pedro—forfeited games, alleging illegal recruiting and player safety concerns. In April 2025, the CIF stripped Narbonne of their title and banned them from postseason play for three years due to violations of eligibility rules (CIF bylaws 202 and 510). Despite the setback, Narbonne reached the CIF 2-AA state semifinals, falling to Pacifica (Oxnard). The season ended with head coach Malcolm Manuel’s resignation, paving the way for Doug Bledsoe to take the helm.

2024 Season Match Scores

Standout Games of 2024

• Nov 29 vs. San Pedro: A 75-31 thrashing in the City Section final showcased Narbonne’s offensive firepower.

• Dec 6 vs. Pacifica: A 35-14 loss in the state semifinals ended a tumultuous season on a bittersweet note.

Despite the sanctions, Narbonne’s talent and heart kept them competitive.

Meet the Gaucho Stars

Narbonne’s roster brims with talent, producing college prospects and game-changers.

• Jaden O’Neal – Junior Quarterback (Class of 2026)

  • 2024 Stats: Over 2,500 passing yards, 25 TDs, led the City Section in passing efficiency.

  • Impact: A dual-threat QB with an Oklahoma commitment, O’Neal’s poise under pressure defined the season.

• Kameron Denmark – Running Back (Class of 2025)

  • 2024 Stats: 1,200 rushing yards, including a 43-yard TD run in the 2015 state title game.

  • Future: A versatile back with speed and vision, drawing college interest.

• Traeshon Holden – Wide Receiver (Class of 2020)

  • Legacy: Now at Alabama, Holden’s high school dominance (1,500 receiving yards in 2018) set a standard for Gaucho receivers.

These players, backed by a stout defense, keep Narbonne in the spotlight.

The Gaucho Practice Regimen

Narbonne’s success is built on discipline and preparation. Here’s their typical schedule:

Offseason workouts at Narbonne’s state-of-the-art facility emphasize speed and strength, aligning with CIF guidelines.

The Formula for Gaucho Greatness

Narbonne’s success stems from three pillars:

• Coaching Mastery: Doug Bledsoe, who took over in 2025, brings experience from Pasadena High. His predecessor, Malcolm Manuel, built a dynasty with a spread offense.

• Rigorous Training: Offseason weightlifting and summer camps hone skills. In-season film sessions sharpen strategy.

• Community Passion: Harbor City rallies behind the Gauchos, with 3,000+ fans packing the stadium. The drumline and cheer squad amplify the vibe.

Rivalries That Ignite the Season

Narbonne’s Marine League rivalries are legendary:

• Narbonne vs. San Pedro: The 2024 City Section final (75-31) was a high-stakes showdown, though marred by San Pedro’s earlier forfeit.

• Narbonne vs. Carson: A heated rivalry, intensified by Carson’s 2024 forfeit over recruiting allegations.

• Narbonne vs. Banning: Historic clashes define this matchup, with Banning’s 2024 forfeit adding fuel to the fire.

These games are more than matchups—they’re battles for Harbor City supremacy.

How to Follow the Gauchos

Stay connected with Narbonne football:

• Live Streams: Watch on NFHS Network or Hudl Fan.

• Scores and Updates: MaxPreps or Los Angeles Times’ Prep Rally.

• Social Media: Follow @NarbonneFootball on X for real-time buzz.

Tips for Aspiring Gaucho Players

Dream of wearing green and gold? Here’s how to start:

• Play Early: Join middle school teams like Fleming or Wilmington.

• Stay Eligible: Maintain a 2.0 GPA per CIF rules.

• Get Noticed: Attend Narbonne’s summer camps and showcase your skills.

Why Narbonne Football Matters

Narbonne football is more than a game—it’s a beacon of hope in Harbor City. With 83% of students economically disadvantaged, the program offers opportunity and pride. The 2015 state title inspired a generation, and despite 2024’s challenges, the Gauchos remain a symbol of resilience. Their games unite families, alumni, and locals, making Friday nights a celebration of community.

Fun Fact

Narbonne’s fight song, “Onward Narbonne!”, is a riff on the University of Wisconsin’s “On, Wisconsin!”—a nod to their shared spirit of victory.

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Conclusion

The 2024 season tested Narbonne’s resolve, but the Gauchos proved their mettle. With stars like Jaden O’Neal, a new era under Doug Bledsoe, and a community that never wavers, Narbonne is poised for a comeback. They’re not just playing football—they’re building a legacy that resonates from Harbor City to the national stage. Want to join the Gaucho faithful? Stream a game, check MaxPreps, or head to the stadium. The green and gold are calling—go Gauchos!