Nestled in the heart of Gilbert, Arizona—not Texas, as some might confuse due to the state’s football fame—Perry High School football has carved out its own legacy in the desert. The Pumas aren’t just a team; they’re a powerhouse that embodies the spirit of high school athletics with electrifying performances, a knack for producing top-tier talent, and a community that rallies like few others. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd at Puma Stadium or the buzz of college scouts eyeing the next big thing, Perry football is a spectacle worth knowing. In this 1325-word deep dive, we’ll unpack the program’s storied history, recent seasons, standout players, and the secret sauce behind their success in Arizona’s cutthroat 6A Conference. Ready to discover why Perry High School football is a name that resonates far beyond Gilbert? Let’s dive in.
What Sets Perry High School Football Apart?
High school football in Arizona might not always steal the national spotlight like Texas or Florida, but Perry High School begs to differ. Located in Gilbert, a fast-growing suburb southeast of Phoenix, Perry has turned heads with its blend of disciplined coaching, explosive playmakers, and a fanbase that transforms Friday nights into a town-wide celebration. Since its first varsity season in 2007, the Pumas have risen from a newcomer to a perennial contender in the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) 6A Conference—think of it as Arizona’s equivalent to Texas’ 6A Division I.
What makes Perry special? It’s the program’s ability to punch above its weight, consistently churning out college prospects and battling the state’s best, all while fostering a tight-knit community vibe. From nail-biting playoff runs to jaw-dropping individual performances, Perry High School football delivers the kind of drama that keeps fans hooked and opponents on edge.
Perry High School Football at a Glance
Here’s a quick rundown of what defines the Pumas:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Gilbert, Arizona, southeast of Phoenix |
| School Established | 2007, part of the Chandler Unified School District |
| State Championships | None yet, but frequent deep playoff runs (e.g., 2021 semifinals) |
| Recent National Rank | Peaked at No. 25 (MaxPreps, 2022), finished 2024 at No. 49 |
| Notable Players | Brock Purdy (QB, Iowa State/NFL), D’Shayne James (WR, Arizona commit) |
| Head Coach | Joseph Ortiz (since 2020), known for dynamic offensive schemes |
| Rivalries | Chandler, Basha, Hamilton—local giants in the 6A Premier Region |
| 2024 Record | 8-4, lost 31-13 to Brophy Prep in 6A quarterfinals on November 22, 2024 |
This table is your cheat sheet—stick around for the full story!
A Look Back: The History of Perry High School Football
From New Kid to Contender
Perry High School kicked off its football journey in 2007, a fresh face in a state dominated by established programs like Chandler and Saguaro. Early years were about finding their footing, but by the 2010s, the Pumas started making noise. Under coaches like Preston Jones and now Joseph Ortiz, Perry transformed into a program that could hang with Arizona’s elite.
Key Milestones
- 2012: First playoff appearance, signaling Perry’s arrival.
- 2018: A breakout 10-2 season, with a young Brock Purdy dazzling at quarterback.
- 2021: Reached the 6A semifinals, falling just short of the title game against Hamilton.
No state championships adorn the trophy case yet, but Perry’s consistency—deep playoff runs and top-25 national rankings—shows they’re knocking on the door.
How Did Perry Football Fare in Recent Seasons?
The 2024 Season: Triumphs and Trials
The 2024 season was a rollercoaster for Perry. Finishing 8-4, the Pumas showcased their offensive firepower, averaging 32.8 points per game. Their playoff journey ended in the quarterfinals with a 31-13 loss to Brophy College Prep on November 22, 2024—a game where turnovers and a stout Brophy defense proved too much.
Standout Moments of 2024
- Week 8 Win: A 42-28 victory over rival Basha, where quarterback Diesel Taylor threw for 280 yards and four touchdowns.
- Playoff Thriller: A 27-24 upset of Chandler in the first round, proving Perry’s grit against a perennial powerhouse.
Nationally, Perry climbed to No. 49 on MaxPreps by season’s end—a solid showing, though they’re hungry for more.
2024 Season Stats
- Record: 8-4 overall.
- Offense: 32.8 points per game average.
- Defense: Allowed 21.5 points per game, with four games under 15 points.
Who Are Perry’s Star Players?
Perry’s roster is a talent pipeline, feeding colleges and even the NFL. Here’s who’s turning heads:
Diesel Taylor – Quarterback Extraordinaire
- Class: 2026.
- Stats: 2,846 passing yards, 33 touchdowns in 2024.
- Future: Early offers from Arizona State, Utah—expect more as he’s only a junior.
Taylor’s arm strength and poise under pressure make him a name to watch.
D’Shayne James – Wide Receiver Phenom
- Class: 2025.
- Stats: 850 receiving yards, 12 touchdowns in 2024.
- Future: Committed to Arizona, a 4-star recruit with blazing speed.
James’ knack for big plays—like a 75-yard TD grab vs. Chandler—keeps defenses guessing.
Luke Haugo – Defensive Anchor
- Stats: 92 tackles, 6 sacks in 2024.
- Impact: A senior linebacker who sets the tone with bone-crunching hits.
These stars, backed by a relentless offensive line, keep Perry competitive year in, year out.
What’s Perry High School Football’s Practice Schedule?
Here’s how the Pumas gear up during the season:
| Day | Activity | Time | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Film Study & Light Conditioning | 3:00–5:00 PM | Review last game, recover |
| Tuesday | Full Pads Practice | 3:00–6:00 PM | Offense vs. Defense drills |
| Wednesday | Full Pads Practice | 3:00–6:00 PM | Special teams, game plan |
| Thursday | Walkthrough & Strategy | 3:00–5:00 PM | Polish plays, mental prep |
| Friday | Game Day | 7:00 PM Kickoff | Execute and dominate |
| Saturday | Recovery & Weight Room (Optional) | 9:00–11:00 AM | Heal up, build strength |
Note: Schedule varies slightly based on playoffs or injuries.
This regimen balances physical reps with mental sharpness—key to staying atop the 6A heap.
How Does Perry High School Football Build Champions?
Coaching That Inspires
Head coach Joseph Ortiz, in his fifth year, brings a modern flair with spread-option schemes that maximize his playmakers. His focus? Player development and adaptability—turning raw athletes into polished prospects.
Training Like Pros
- Offseason: Speed camps and 7-on-7 tournaments start in spring.
- In-Season: Daily position drills—think QB accuracy throws or DB coverage reps.
- Tech Edge: HUDL film analysis helps players spot tendencies fast.
Community Fuel
Gilbert loves its Pumas. Home games draw 5,000+ fans, with tailgates and pep rallies setting the stage. Local boosters fund gear and travel, ensuring the team has every edge.
What Are Perry’s Fiercest Rivalries?
Perry vs. Chandler
A district clash with Chandler High—a national powerhouse—always delivers. The 2024 playoff win (27-24) was sweet revenge after years of tight losses.
Perry vs. Basha
This Premier Region showdown pits Perry against a scrappy Basha squad. The 42-28 win in 2024 was a statement of dominance.
Perry vs. Hamilton
Another local titan, Hamilton has traded blows with Perry in playoffs past, like the 2021 semifinal thriller.
How Can Fans Stay in the Loop?
- Live Games: Stream on NFHS Network or catch radio on AZPreps365.
- Updates: MaxPreps and azcentral.com for scores and stats.
- Social Buzz: Follow @PerryPumasFB on X for real-time action.
How Can You Join Perry High School Football?
Aspiring Pumas, listen up:
- Start Young: Play in Gilbert’s youth leagues to build skills.
- Hit the Books: A 2.0 GPA is the minimum—aim higher.
- Show Up: Summer camps at Perry are your audition—bring your A-game.
- Work Hard: Out-hustle everyone; coaches notice effort.
Why Does Perry Football Matter to Arizona?
Perry High School football isn’t just a team—it’s a beacon of Arizona’s rising gridiron scene. They’ve put Gilbert on the map, sent stars like Brock Purdy to the NFL, and given fans a reason to believe in state-title dreams. In a state where basketball often steals the show, Perry proves football has a pulse—and it’s beating strong.
Fun Fact: Brock Purdy, now a San Francisco 49er, led Perry to a 10-2 record in 2018—proof the Pumas breed winners.
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The 2024 season ended short of a championship, but Perry High School football’s trajectory is skyward. With a pipeline of talent, a coach who gets it, and a community that lives for Friday nights, the Pumas are primed for greatness. They’re not just playing the game—they’re redefining it in Arizona. Want to witness the next chapter of this desert dynasty? Follow the Pumas, grab a ticket, and join the roar—because Perry football is a story you won’t want to miss.
