Skyline Mustangs Face Rebuilding Season After Championship Run

September 12, 2025

Miguel Sallard

Managing Editor

CHANDLER — After capturing the Division I Canyon Athletic Association football title last season, Skyline High School enters the 2025 campaign with a young roster and tempered expectations.

“It’s going to be a rebuilding year,” head coach Darius Turner said. “Last season was a success, but this one will be a real challenge.”

The Mustangs finished 2024 with a 9-2 record, including a five-game winning streak that culminated in a dominant 36-0 victory over Harvest Prep Academy in the championship game. The team allowed just 90 points across 11 games while scoring 386. But only seven players from that title-winning squad return. Thirteen seniors graduated in May, leaving Turner with a roster largely composed of freshmen — including a new starting quarterback.

Among the fresh faces is Kristian Adams, a freshman quarterback who recently relocated from Indiana.

“I’m feeling a little nervous, he said. “I’ve been playing since I was eight years old, but this level is going to be different for me. Nervous, yes-but also ready to give it everything I’ve got” Still adjusting to Arizona desert heat, Kristian will rely on support from the Mustangs’ defensive line as he steps into thestarting role.

Skyline will also make history this season with its first-ever female backup quarterback.

Sophia Gregg, who brings experience from flag football and already holds a championship title, will serve as Kristian’s understudy. 

“A lot of these guys are brand new to the program,” Turner said.

“We’re starting from scratch in many ways.” Skyline football program joined the CAA in 2022 with the goal of building a competitive football program. Just two seasons later, the Mustangs claimed their first championship in school history — a feat that Turner credits to the players’ commitment both on and off the field.

“It was all about their dedication,” he said. “They gave everything they had, not just during games but in the classroom too.

I couldn’t be prouder.”Despite the turnover, Turner remains optimistic. He hopes to guide the Mustangs back to the playoffs, though he acknowledges the path will be tougher this time around.

“We’re not the same team as last year,” he said. “But we’re going to fight to keep that winning spirit alive.”