The Monarchs’ Crown: A Perfect Season Under Raul Lara

Coach Raul Lara's impressive resume and leadership have solidified Mater Dei High School's football program as one of the premier high school teams in the nation. Before joining Mater Dei, Coach Lara had a distinguished career as the head coach at Long Beach Poly High School, where he amassed a record of 142-30 over 13 seasons, including five CIF Southern Section championships. His ability to develop talent and build winning cultures has made him one of the most respected figures in high school football.

Mater Dei High School boasts a rich tradition in football, dating back decades. Known as the "Monarchs," the program has been a breeding ground for elite talent and has consistently been ranked among the top high school football programs in the nation. Over the years, Mater Dei has produced numerous NFL players, collegiate standouts, and state champions. The school’s commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, has fostered a culture of hard work, discipline, and pride that resonates with every player who dons the Monarch uniform. Under the leadership of legendary coaches and now Coach Lara, Mater Dei continues to build upon its storied legacy, setting the standard for high school football.

The 2024 season was a testament to Mater Dei's excellence, culminating in a perfect 13-0 record and securing the CIF State Open Division title.

2024 Season Game-by-Game Overview:

• August 22: vs. Centennial – Win 42-25

• September 6: vs. Bishop Gorman – Win 31-15

• September 14: at Kahuku – Win 38-7

• September 20: vs. St. Frances Academy – Win 25-14

• October 4: at Santa Margarita* – Win 40-18

• October 11: at Servite* – Win 28-6

• October 18: at JSerra Catholic* – Win 41-17

• October 25: vs. St. John Bosco* – Win 59-14

• November 1: vs. Orange Lutheran* – Win 38-14

• November 15: vs. Sierra Canyon** – Win 33-13

• November 22: at Centennial** – Win 36-7

• November 29: vs. St. John Bosco** – Win 31-24

• December 13: vs. De La Salle (CIF State Open Division Final) – Win 37-15

*Regular Season; **Playoffs

Coach Raul Lara's strategic acumen and ability to develop talent have been instrumental in Mater Dei's sustained success. His emphasis on discipline, teamwork, and adaptability has allowed the Monarchs to consistently outperform top-tier opponents.

The 2024 roster was replete with standout athletes poised for collegiate success. Notably, several players have committed to Division I programs:

• Zabien Brown (CB): Committed to Alabama

• Aydin Breland (DL): Committed to Oregon

• Brandon Baker (OT): Committed to Texas

• Nate Frazier (RB): Committed to Georgia

• Elijah Brown (QB): Committed to Stanford

These commitments underscore the program's ability to develop players ready for the next level.

Mater Dei's dominance is further highlighted by their recognition as the State Team of the Year for 2024, marking the fourth time in five years they've received this honor.

In summary, Coach Raul Lara's leadership, combined with a roster of exceptional talent, has cemented Mater Dei's status as a powerhouse in high school football, with a significant number of athletes advancing to Division I programs.

As of January 21, 2025, several players from Coach Raúl Lara's Mater Dei Monarchs have committed to Division I football programs. Here are some more of the notable commits along with their star rankings:

Chuck McDonaldPosition: Cornerback (CB)Height: 6'0.5"Weight: 190 lbs Star Rating: 4-star (94 rating)Committed to: Alabama Crimson Tide

Daryus DixsonPosition: Cornerback (CB)Height: 6'0"Weight: 180 lbs Star Rating: 4-star (93 rating)Committed to: Penn State Nittany Lions

Jordon DavisonPosition: Running Back (RB)Height: 6'0"Weight: 216 lbs Star Rating: 4-star (90 rating)Committed to: Oregon Ducks

Marcus HarrisPosition: Wide Receiver (WR)Height: 6'0.5"Weight: 185 lbs Star Rating: 3-star (89 rating)Committed to: Oklahoma Sooners

Abduall Sanders Jr.Position: Linebacker (LB)Height: 6'1.5"Weight: 225 lbs Star Rating: 3-star (89 rating)Committed to: Alabama Crimson Tide

These players have made significant contributions to Mater Dei's football program and are poised to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.