Sam Nakata

Sam Nakata –

REDDING, Calif. – Dec. 19th, 2025 – Simpson University Athletics has announced the elevation of Trevor Utter to serve as the Head Football Coach of the Red Hawks football program, marking a clear step forward in the continued growth and direction of Simpson Football.

Coach Utter, who most recently served as the Wide Receivers and Tight Ends Coach, has made a strong impact through his leadership, mentorship, and commitment to intentional player development within Simpson University’s Christ-centered environment. His elevation aligns with the University’s commitment to thoughtful leadership, continuity, and the long-term growth of its student-athletes.

“Trevor has a genuine gift for developing players-on the field, in the classroom, and in life,” said Rob Harley, Simpson University Athletic Director. “He leads with integrity, humility, and a heart for discipleship, which aligns directly with who we are as a University. His ability to teach, connect, and invest in young men positions our program well for what’s ahead.”

Prior to joining Simpson University, Utter spent 13 seasons coaching at Lincoln County High School in Montana, where he was recognized three times as Coach of the Year and built a program known for discipline, accountability, and long-term growth.

A former student-athlete, Utter played football at the University of Montana from 1994-1998, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Arts in Education Leadership while competing for the Grizzlies. He was a apart of the 1995 Division I-AA Championship team that saw the Grizzlies finish the year 13-2 as they took down Marshall 22-20 in the Championship game.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead Simpson Football and for the trust placed in me by the University,” said Utter. “My focus is on serving our student-athletes and continuing to build a program centered on growth, accountability, and purpose.”

A formal introduction of Coach Utter to the Simpson University campus and media is planned for the new year.

Sam Nakata –

The Simpson University Cross Country team dominated the Cal Pac Championships yesterday on its home site at West Valley High School in Cottonwood, California.

The men’s team earned its first Cal Pac Championship in program history, while the women’s squad claimed its first Cal Pac Championship since 2012. 

The Red Hawks men’s team set the tone early in the men’s 8k as freshman Justin Montoya earned an individual first-place finish with a blistering 27:40.34, as fellow Red Hawks Cade Salsedo followed close behind with a second-place finish with a time of 27:44.16. 

But the Red Hawks kept coming as they earned the first five finishes with seven runners placing in the top eight. 

Dual-sport athlete Colton Silva sealed a third-place finish with a time of 30:18.39, Alexander Reusze claimed the fourth spot with a time of 30:40.19, and Benny Peralta rounded out the top five finishers with a time of 31:31.07. 

The sixth spot belonged to a Pacific Union runner before Simpson’s Matthew Viramontez earned the seventh spot with a time of 32:10.63, and Mark Rachal rounded out the Simpson runners, stamping a time of 32:50.43.

The outstanding performance by the men’s group earned them a Cal Pac Championship title with a team score of 15. 

On the women’s side, the Red Hawks continued to flourish as Jewelia Zaragoza led the squad with a third-place finish with a time of 28:58.33. 

She sparked a trend of three straight Simpson runners finishing behind her as Grace Balke placed fourth with a time of 32:40.21, Nieva Parsons placed fifth with a time of 32:42.15, and Kezia Parsons placed sixth with a time of 32:46.63. 

Simpson’s, Alexis Heredia claimed the eighth spot with a 33:26.54 while Sabrina Stewart rounded out the group with a time of 41:43.17. 

A solid performance by the women’s team earned them a Cal Pac Championship title with a team score of 15. 

The Red Hawks took home the hardware as Coach Jonathan Hall earned coach of the year honors for the men’s and women’s teams for the first time in his career.

Montoya earned the Male Runner of the Year award along with an All-Conference selection. 

Silva, Reusze, Peralta, and Viramontez all earned an All-Conference selection on the men’s side, while Zaragoza, Pierce, Parsons, and Balke earned All-Conference selections on the women’s side. 

Rachal and Pierce earned the Cal Pac Champions of Character award for their professional display on the field. 

Simpson looks to prepare for the NAIA National Tournament that is set to take place on Nov. 21st in Tallahassee, FL.