The Sailors are officially getting the county’s attention.
Following an impressive 2–0 start to the 2026 season, Newport Harbor has earned a place in the Orange County Register’s latest Orange County Football Top 25 rankings.
The recognition comes after two very different—but equally impressive—victories.
Newport Harbor opened the season in Hawaii with a dominant 41–0 shutout of Nanakuli, delivering a complete performance on both sides of the football. The Sailors then returned home and showed their toughness in a thrilling 29–24 comeback victory over Murrieta Mesa at Davidson Field.
Trailing by 10 points in the fourth quarter, Newport Harbor refused to fold. Senior quarterback Jordan Spigarelli connected with senior receiver Ryan Palmer for two fourth-quarter touchdowns, including the game-winning score with just over a minute remaining.
The Sailors’ defense then held on during a frantic final Murrieta Mesa possession to secure the victory and improve Newport Harbor to 2–0.
Being recognized among Orange County’s Top 25 football programs is an exciting early-season accomplishment—especially in one of the deepest and most competitive high school football regions in the country. More importantly, it reflects the work being put in by the players, coaches and entire Newport Harbor football program.
The Sailors now have an opportunity to continue building momentum when they travel to face Lancaster on Friday night.
The season is only getting started, but one thing is already clear:
Newport Harbor Football is back on the county radar.
Congratulations to Coach Matt Burns, his coaching staff and every member of the Newport Harbor football program.
Go Sailors!