With the departure of a coach whose legacy will long be remembered, the Acalanes football program steps confidently into a new chapter—one led by a familiar face with a proven track record. Coach Joel “Blue” Isaac, a respected leader and mentor within the Dons community, now takes the reins as Head Coach, bringing with him a bold vision, deep experience, and a passion for building not only strong athletes but strong individuals.

The momentum surrounding Acalanes Football continues to build after two incredible seasons of success. Since Coach Blue’s return to Acalanes in 2023 as Offensive Coordinator, Acalanes has beaten Clayton Valley for their only DAL loss in 12 years, produced a DAL co-league title, an outright DAL title, two NCS championships (D4 & D3), and a California State Championship. Only a narrow one-point loss in the 2024 NorCal title game at Carmel prevented back-to-back runs for the state championship.

Winning is a united effort that brings together players, coaches, students, school administration, parents, and the unwavering support of our fans. With Coach Blue officially at the helm, he is fully prepared to harness the energy and success of previous seasons, driving the team forward with clear purpose for every player. We know it takes all of us to secure victory. This is the school where champions are made. Acalanes is a powerhouse, and under Coach Blue’s leadership, the Dons are poised to not only uphold their tradition of excellence but also achieve even greater heights in the years ahead.

Who Is Coach Blue?

Coach Blue’s coaching journey has been shaped by growth, impact, and championship success. Prior to rejoining Acalanes, he served as Offensive Coordinator at Vanden High School, where he was instrumental in leading the Vikings to a 2021 State Championship and a 2022 section title. His return to Acalanes builds on a long-standing commitment—dating back to 2016—during which he helped lay the foundation for the program’s rise as the Head JV Coach and by coaching nearly every position on the field.

Coach Blue’s extensive coaching background includes key roles at St. Patrick-St. Vincent High School in Vallejo, where he was Assistant Varsity Head Coach and oversaw strength and conditioning, defense, and offense. But beyond the X’s and O’s, what sets Coach Blue apart is his dedication to shaping well-rounded student-athletes. “The most rewarding part of coaching is seeing our players grow—not just on the field, but as young men prepared for life,” he shared.

Summer 2025

As summer workouts approach, excitement is in the air. The 2024 DAL League and NCS champions return a large portion of their varsity roster, and with over 50 freshmen already signed up, the program’s future is looking stronger than ever. “I see the freshmen team as the lifeblood of the organization,” Coach Blue said. “It’s where we first instill the mindset, discipline, and fundamentals that define who we are. Four years of that foundation prepares them for success in football and beyond.”

Varsity players are looking forward to Football 2025:

I am super pumped up for the season. We have a lot of returning talent and a reason to win. I am excited for Tahoe Camp, Summer bonding, and diving into our season. 

-Joey Martin, Tackle, Rising Senior

I am looking forward to my last year of football with the Dons. We have talented players and coaches to win the league and NCS again.  

-Josh Elerts, Running Back, Rising Senior 

After coming so close last year, we have all been working hard this offseason, and I am excited to see what this team can do in the fall. 

-Adam Caicedo, Defense Tackle, Rising Senior 

I am ready for football season, a strong returning team that is extra motivated to do great things this Fall for Amin.

-River Lockwood, Wide Receiver, Rising Senior 

I am excited because I know this team can go up against anyone and compete. I am looking forward to winning a championship for Amin.

-Grant Ricker, Wide Receiver, Rising Senior 

Our team is bonded better than ever and this will help with the success of our team. After missing most of last season, I am fired up to get back out there with the team and make the most out of this season.

–Tommy Tehar, Running Back, Rising Senior

I am looking forward to a season of chasing greatness with my brothers and to winning another state championship.

– Finn Rivera, Wide Receiver/Safety, Rising Junior 

With a deep bench of talent, a strong coaching foundation, and a leader who’s all-in on the growth of his players and the legacy of the program, the Dons are ready. Under Coach Blue’s leadership, the future of Acalanes football isn’t just bright—it’s championship-bound. Fear the Blue! Winning is a collective effort that unites players, coaches, students, school administration, parents, and our dedicated fans. With Coach Blue officially at the helm, he is primed to harness the energy and success of our past seasons, driving the team forward with purpose and determination for each player. Together, we are unstoppable.

There is no question that Acalanes is THE home for champions and is a formidable force in the DAL, NCS and State. Under Coach Blue’s dynamic leadership, the Dons are poised to carry on our tradition of excellence and achieve even greater success in the years to come. Let’s embrace our bright future!