The Next Step
Three standout seniors from Manteca High School are ready to continue their football journey, carrying the Buffaloes' legacy to the next level at San Mateo.
By SAMANTHA LEWIS
The Tower
Three standout athletes from Manteca High School, Mathieu Evans, Robert Nelson, and Kevin Bradley, have made a mark not only on the football field but also in their community. As they prepare to take their talents to San Mateo, these seniors are ready to face the next chapter in their athletic careers, carrying with them the values and traditions of Manteca High.
Rob Nelson, Owen Gully, and Xyloh Kuresa training at Manteca High schools track in Manteca California
Evans, Nelson, and Bradley’s decision to continue their football careers at San Mateo highlights their commitment to both personal growth and the legacy of Manteca High. Together, they aim to bring the values of discipline, teamwork, and pride instilled in them by their coaches and community to the next level of competition.
Mathieu Evans is a defensive end who was named the Valley Oak League’s co-defensive player of the year. As he moves on to San Mateo, he plans to bring a piece of home with him.
During his four years at Manteca High, Evans was influenced by coach Mark Varnum and his staff. He had 3 sacks and 21 tackles for loss. Manteca won back-to-back outright VOL titles during his junior and senior seasons.
Though San Mateo has their own way of winning, Evans hopes to elevate the program with his hometown pride and Buffalo tradition.
“I’m going to bring the Manteca Buffaloes,” Evans said.
Evans' determination to carry the legacy of the Manteca Buffaloes with him to San Mateo speaks volumes about his deep connection to his roots and the program that shaped him. As he transitions to the next phase of his athletic journey, he's focused not only on personal growth but also on giving back to the community that supported him.
The lessons he learned under coach Mark Varnum—discipline, resilience, and more, will be essential as he competes at the next level. For Evans, it’s not just about playing football; it’s about honoring the tradition of excellence instilled at Manteca High and contributing to a culture of success wherever he goes.
Mathieu Evans and Kevin Bradley standing on Gus Schmidt Field at Manteca high school in Manteca California
Robert Nelson is an accomplished defensive and offensive lineman. He had 6 sacks and 68 total tackles. He will be continuing his football career at San Mateo. He has expressed his enthusiasm and appreciation for the opportunity to further his athletic development while gaining valuable experience at a Jr. College level.
During his time at Manteca High School, Nelson developed, under the guidance of Raymond Stone and Ken Menasco, and became a key player for his team. The lessons learned and the hard work he put in throughout his high school career have laid a strong foundation for his success.
This opportunity means the chance to challenge himself against stronger competition while continuing to improve his skills.
“It’s an opportunity at a second chance, you know? Bringing a better offer than I was able to throw my senior year. It’s a way for me to develop and get the exposure I need and learn from the best of the best,” Nelson said.
Kevin Bradley, a standout senior from Manteca High, is set to continue his football career at San Mateo. As a left tackle, he's been a key part of the Buffaloes' success, known for his strong work ethic and leadership on the field. His play has been crucial in protecting the quarterback and paving the way for the running game.
Much like Evans and Nelson, Bradley is excited about the opportunity to take his talents to the next level. He’s eager to build upon the foundation laid at Manteca, where hard work and commitment to the team have always been top priorities.
His commitment to both his personal development and his team’s success speaks to the character that he’s developed over the past year. Bradley is ready to bring that same energy and passion to San Mateo, continuing the tradition of excellence that has defined Manteca High School football.
For Bradley, continuing to play with teammates like Evans and Nelson at San Mateo is a special opportunity. Their bond goes beyond football, built on mutual respect and shared goals. The chance to carry that connection to the next level is both exciting and motivating as they transition from high school teammates to collegiate athletes, ready to challenge and support each other.
“It’s a blessing even though we haven’t known each other for a long time, only a year. It’s really a blessing to continue to play with them,” Bradley said.
As these athletes move on to San Mateo, their legacy at Manteca High is already cemented. Their dedication, work ethic, and leadership have left a lasting impact, and now, they are ready to continue writing their story, one that will inspire the next generation of Buffaloes.