Prep Football: Cathedral Catholic Seeks Championship Glory in Sean Doyle's 30th Season

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

League: Western

Head Coach: Sean Doyle (30th Season)

2024 Season: 9-3, Lost Open Division Final

SDFN Preseason Ranking: #2

Week 1: 8/22 vs. Mater Dei Catholic

The Cathedral Catholic Dons enter the 2025 season carrying high expectations after a strong 9-3 campaign that included an appearance in the Open Division championship game. Under the veteran leadership of head coach Sean Doyle—now in his remarkable 30th season—the Dons return a talented roster loaded with college-bound players and are poised for another championship run.

Veteran Leadership Under Sean Doyle

Few coaches in California prep football command the respect that Sean Doyle has earned during his three-decade tenure at Cathedral Catholic. Entering his 30th season, Doyle has built a program culture centered on discipline, fundamentals, and developing young men both on and off the field. His experience in big games and ability to reload talent year after year make the Dons a perennial contender.

Doyle's traditionally ground-oriented offensive philosophy has evolved over the years, and he's shown a willingness to adapt his system to maximize his players' talents. With the weapons returning in 2025, expect a more balanced attack that can beat teams through the air or on the ground.

The Brady Palmer Era Continues

At the heart of Cathedral Catholic's championship hopes is senior quarterback Brady Palmer, a Cal Bears commit who brings elite athleticism and leadership to the position. Palmer's combination of arm strength, mobility, and football IQ makes him one of the top quarterbacks in the section and a perfect fit for Doyle's evolving offensive system. His ability to extend plays with his legs while keeping his eyes downfield adds a dynamic element that defenses must account for.

Five-Star Phenom: Honor Fa'alave-Johnson

The crown jewel of Cathedral Catholic's roster is junior Honor Fa'alave-Johnson, a 5-star recruit who stars on both sides of the ball. According to 247Sports' composite rankings, he is the No. 7 prospect in the Class of 2027 and represents the type of generational talent that can single-handedly change games. Fa'alave-Johnson's ability to play receiver, defensive back, and even running back gives Doyle incredible flexibility in game-planning and creates matchup nightmares for opposing coaches.

Offensive Line: Experience and Size

Cathedral Catholic's offensive success will largely depend on an experienced offensive line that features good size and senior leadership. The unit is anchored by senior Chase Deniz, the 6-foot-7 USC commit who provides college-level talent at tackle. Alongside Deniz, the Dons return seniors Victor Velasquez II, Anthony Bibaeff, and Xavier Faavi, giving them a formidable veteran presence up front.

This veteran-heavy line should give Palmer the protection he needs while creating running lanes for Willie Flores and the ground game. The ability to handle elite pass rushers and establish consistent push in the running game will be crucial to Cathedral Catholic's championship aspirations, especially against top-tier competition.

Key Returning Players

Offense:

QB Brady Palmer – Cal commit with elite athleticism and leadership

WR Hunter Harrington – Primary target with excellent chemistry with Palmer

RB Willie Flores – Expected to handle the bulk of carries in the run game

ATH Honor Fa'alave-Johnson – 5-star junior who can line up anywhere and create mismatches

OL Chase Deniz – USC commit who anchors the offensive line

OL Victor Velasquez II – Experienced lineman providing protection and run blocking

TE Sebastian Tucker – Reliable target in the passing game

ATH Parker Johnson – Versatile player who can contribute on both sides

Defense:

LB Cade Smith – USD commit who anchors the defense and leads by example

DB Aidan Smith-McGlynn – Exceptional cornerback with lockdown coverage skills

DL Bronx Letuligasenoa – Explosive pass rusher who can disrupt opposing offenses

DB Josh Faraimo – Washington State commit who provides senior leadership in the secondary

ATH Honor Fa'alave-Johnson – Athletic defensive back who can match up with any receiver

Key Matchups and Revenge Game

Cathedral will face a challenging schedule that includes quality opponents throughout the season. They begin their slate at home against Division II runner-up Mater Dei Catholic, providing an opportunity to make an early statement. In 2024, the Dons routed the Crusaders 56-28 in their opener, setting the tone for their championship run.

They'll travel to face Helix and have a showdown with defending Division I champion Granite Hills—both games that will test their championship mettle against proven programs. Perhaps the biggest non-league test comes against De La Salle, the Northern California powerhouse that will provide a measuring stick against elite competition from outside the section.

The most anticipated game on the schedule comes when the Dons travel to face defending Open Division champion Lincoln, who beat them twice in 2024. Cathedral will be eager to show they've made the necessary improvements to compete with the county's best in a hostile environment.

While there will be no Holy Bowl game against St. Augustine this year, league play includes key matchups against University City and Scripps Ranch, where the Dons will look to build momentum heading into the postseason.

Championship Expectations

With a veteran coach, elite quarterback, and one of the nation's top recruits, Cathedral Catholic has all the pieces needed for a championship run. The Dons' experience in big games under Doyle's leadership, combined with their talent across the board and the valuable lessons from last year's championship game appearance, positions them perfectly for another title pursuit.

The program has built a culture of excellence under Doyle's three-decade tenure, and this group has the talent and experience to capture the program's 14th section title. With key players and elite recruits returning, the Dons have the depth and versatility to make a serious championship run.

The 2025 season represents a golden opportunity for Cathedral Catholic to reach the pinnacle of San Diego prep football, and all signs point to a program ready to take that next step.

Cathedral Catholic Dons 2025 Schedule

8/22 vs. Mater Dei Catholic 7:00pm

8/29 @ Saint Francis 7:00pm

9/5 vs. Chandler 7:00pm

9/19 @ Helix 7:00pm

9/26 vs. Granite Hills 7:00pm

10/3 @ De La Salle 7:00pm

10/10 @ Point Loma 7:00pm

10/17 vs. Scripps Ranch* 7:00pm

10/24 @ Lincoln* 7:00pm

10/31 vs. University City* 7:00pm

*League games