Page 10 - 2025 HDSF Sneaker Ball Digital Program

2025 Outstanding Coaches

Cyrus Fitivale is a God-driven coach leading the charge at
Trench House, where faith, discipline and performance unite to
build stronger young men. With God’s guidance and blessing.
He has helped youth football players and high school linemen
sharpen technique, boost mental toughness and capture
meaningful progress—from the practice field into everyday life.
His mission extends far beyond drills: I’m committed to nurturing
a community of resilience, leadership and support across the
High Desert. None of this would be possible without God fueling
our purpose, and he is humbled to help each and every athlete
unlock their full potential as both a player and a young man.

James McAfee, widely known as Coach Mack, is a passionate mentor, husband, and
community leader whose life has been deeply rooted in football and family. Born and raised
with roots in Los Angeles, California, and strong ties to the High Desert community, Coach
Mack’s love for the game began at an early age. From youth football through college, he’s
built a legacy on discipline, leadership, and perseverance.
As a youth athlete, James won a Super Bowl championship and went on to earn multiple
honors in high school, including All-CIF, All-City, and All-League recognition as a defensive
lineman and fullback at Silverado High School. His football journey continued at the
collegiate level, where he played for multiple NCAA programs, including Victor Valley College (VVC).
Beyond his own playing career, Coach Mack has dedicated his life to giving back to the next generation. In 2012,
alongside his parents Joseph and Valerie McAfee, he co-founded what was originally known as the High Desert Jets,
now proudly known as the High Desert OG Rams Youth Football & Cheer. The program has since become a
cornerstone in the High Desert, shaping countless young athletes both on and off the field.
As a coach and mentor, James has led his teams to remarkable success, earning 6 Super Bowl championships, 3
Turkey Bowl titles, and a D2 National Championship at D1 Nation, while consistently being ranked among the Top 10
teams at his age group in recent years.

Jonathan Salgado is an amazing wrestling coach because he pushes his athletes to
reach their full potential while always leading with discipline, respect, and encouragement.
He teaches not only the techniques of wrestling but also the values of perseverance,
accountability, and mental toughness. His dedication to his team goes beyond the mat. He
supports each athlete individually, builds their confidence, and creates a culture of hard
work and unity. With his passion for the sport and his athletes, he inspires them to grow as
wrestlers and as people.

Outstanding Coach—Honorable Mentions

Aaron Dowling, Cory Bush, Corey Tripp, Edgar Pineda, Isaiah Nathaniel Villa, Jeffrey Honaker, Jennifer Johnson,
Jonathan Beck, Koray Keys, Martay Rabb, Michael Hall, Mike Walker, Taleni Pahulu and Thomas Riley