The long-awaited resurgence of a once-proud Diamond Bar program appeared to be underway last season when the Brahmas won their first four games. It was promptly put to an end by three losses to open league, including a 41-0 beat down at the hands of Diamond Ranch. Under new head coach Ryan Maine, Diamond Bar is hoping this is the seaon of the real resurgence.
“It’s tough because they’re not going to believe you until you go out and win games,” Maine said.
The Brahmas may feature the most-touted quarterback in the league as 6-foot-4 Henry Omana finally takes over his own team after rotating last season. Maine expects the strong-armed pocket passer to have a breakout year directing the spread offense along with a healthy dose of help from running back Jamaal Clayton, one of seven returning starters on offense along with standout receiver George Katrib.
It is a defense that allowed an astonishing 37.5 points per game in league play last season that will determine if Diamond Bar can make the playoffs for the first time in eight years. The Brahmas, who won their first four games only to struggle in league play, are replacing three defensive linemen but all of the linebackers return along with most of the secondary.
“We’ve really struggled defensively the last four years so we’ve brought some excitement and emotion to the defense,” Maine said. “We want to be more of a run-supporting defense that can come up to the line of scrimmage.”
