As Cole Valley Christian steps onto the field at Albertsons Stadium for the Boise Dream Football Classic, it’s not just about the game—it’s about a journey of growth, perseverance, and faith led by Coach Mark Moreno. With 11 years of dedicated coaching experience at Cole Valley Christian, Moreno has built a program that is as much about character development as it is about football.
A Calling to Coach
Coach Mark Moreno’s journey into coaching began with a profound influence during his own high school years. His head coach, Jeff Jacobs, played a pivotal role in shaping his life, helping him find confidence through football and challenging him in ways that extended beyond the field.
"My head coach, Jeff Jacobs, was instrumental in influencing my life as a high school kid," Moreno shares. "Football helped me find my confidence and challenged me in a lot of different ways."
Eleven years ago, an opportunity arose for Moreno to coach the middle school team at Cole Valley Christian, and it seemed like the perfect fit. "It was an opportunity to coach the game I love and use it as a ministry as well," Moreno explains. This blend of athletics and ministry has defined his coaching philosophy ever since.
A Decade of Dedication
Moreno’s entire coaching career has been with Cole Valley Christian, where he has steadily progressed through the ranks. He started as the head coach for the middle school team for two years, then moved on to lead the junior varsity team for one year. After that, he became the varsity offensive coordinator for three years. Now, in his fifth year as varsity head coach, Moreno continues to build on the foundation he has laid over the past decade.
Aiming for Growth and Achievement
As Cole Valley Christian enters the 2024 season, Coach Moreno has set clear goals for his team. While winning a state championship is a common aspiration for any team, Moreno understands the importance of building a strong foundation first. "Making the playoffs would be a major accomplishment for this team and coaching staff," Moreno states. "We want to build a program that boys want to be a part of and know that the coaches truly care about them and their relationship with Christ."
For Moreno, success this season isn’t just about wins and losses. It’s about competing with grit and determination, regardless of the opponent. "This will be our first year making the jump to the 4A Snake River Valley Conference, and I believe it is the toughest 4A division in the state," he explains. "We want our guys to have grit and play until the very last play of the game, no matter if we are winning or losing."
Success for Coach Moreno also means fostering camaraderie among the players and witnessing individual growth, whether in academics, social interactions, or their relationship with Christ. "Seeing the team grow in camaraderie over the season is success. Seeing individual wins by the players, be it with their academics, social life, or relationship with Christ, is success in our eyes."
Excitement for the Boise Dream Football Classic
The opportunity to play at Albertsons Stadium, home of the Boise State Broncos, is a dream come true for many young athletes. For Coach Moreno and his team, it’s an experience that will create lasting memories.
"These boys grow up watching the Broncos play on the blue, and to have an opportunity to play in that stadium on the blue will be a memory they will never forget," Moreno shares with excitement. "Being a smaller school, these types of opportunities don't always present themselves, so we’re extremely thankful to have this opportunity to give the boys a great evening of football!"
Looking Ahead
As the Cole Valley Christian football team prepares for the Boise Dream Football Classic, Coach Mark Moreno’s leadership will undoubtedly guide them through the challenges of the season. With a focus on growth, resilience, and faith, Moreno is building more than just a football team—he’s nurturing a community of young men who are prepared to tackle life’s challenges both on and off the field.
For Coach Moreno and his team, the 2024 season is about more than just football; it’s about laying the groundwork for a legacy of character, teamwork, and unwavering faith. As they take to the blue turf at Albertsons Stadium, they do so with a sense of purpose and excitement that will resonate long after the final whistle.
For more information about the Dream Football Classic and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.dreamfootballclassic.com/highschool
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