UPDATE: Just five days after clinching a state championship, Hardy Nickerson has been named the new head football coach at JSerra Catholic in San Juan Capistrano. This historic appointment makes him the first Black head football coach in the Trinity League.
The announcement came on Wednesday, December 12, 2025, following a remarkable season where Nickerson led Bishop O’Dowd to a 37-0 victory against Christian-El Cajon in the CIF Division 5-AA state championship. His exceptional leadership secured three consecutive postseason appearances for the Dragons.
In an email to parents, JSerra expressed their enthusiasm: “We are pleased to inform you that we hired Hardy Nickerson as our varsity head coach. Coach Nickerson was chosen from a field of applicants that was over 100 strong.” Nickerson’s contract is rumored to be worth up to $200,000, marking a significant opportunity in his coaching career.
Nickerson, who previously graduated from Verbum Dei High School in Los Angeles, takes over from former coach Victor Santa Cruz, who was dismissed last month. His hiring comes after an active coaching carousel in California, with notable candidates like Philip Rivers also in the mix.
Reflecting on his recent championship victory, Nickerson praised his team’s resilience. “They were dead in the water at 1-3, but the kids just kept buying in, kept working and kept coming to practice,” he said. “And now, here we are.” His departure leaves O’Dowd with a strong roster poised for next season, yet he remains focused on his new challenge.
As JSerra prepares for a new chapter in its football program, Nickerson’s appointment signals a transformative moment in the league’s history. Fans and stakeholders are eager to see how his leadership will reshape the team and set new precedents.
This story is still developing. Stay tuned for updates on Nickerson’s impact at JSerra and the future of Bishop O’Dowd’s football program.
