Friday nights in Upland just feel different. You can smell the snack bar popcorn drifting over from the 24th Street hill long before you actually see the stadium lights cutting through the smog or evening mist. It’s loud. It’s intense. Upland High School football isn't just a physical extracurricular activity for teenagers; it is the heartbeat of a community that expects to win every single time they step onto the turf.
People talk about "The U." In South Florida, that means the Hurricanes. But in the Inland Empire (IE), "The U" belongs to the Highlanders.
Success here isn't a fluke. It's the result of decades of brutal weight room sessions, a pipeline of talent that starts in the Junior All-American ranks, and a coaching legacy that has survived the shifting landscape of Southern California high school sports. While some powerhouse programs rely on massive tuition checks and "recruiting" across three counties, Upland has largely built its reputation on tough, local kids who grew up wanting to wear that green and white jersey.
The Tradition of Power in the Baseline League
If you want to understand Upland High School football, you have to look at the Baseline League. It’s a gauntlet. Year after year, the Scots have to go toe-to-toe with the likes of Rancho Cucamonga, Etiwanda, and Chino Hills. These aren't "gimme" games. These are physical wars where careers are made.
Upland’s dominance in the early 2000s and late 2010s set a standard that most schools can't touch. Think back to the 2018 season. That was a masterclass. They didn't just win; they physically overwhelmed people. Under the leadership of figures like former coach Tim Salter—who spent decades building this foundation—the Highlanders became synonymous with a "ground and pound" identity that eventually evolved into a high-flying, modern offense.
They’ve got the hardware to prove it, too. We’re talking about multiple CIF Southern Section championships. Specifically, those titles in 1995, 2000, 2009, and that 2018 Division 2 crown. Winning one CIF title is a lifetime achievement for most coaches. Winning four across different eras? That’s a dynasty.
It’s about the culture of the Highland. It's about that specific brand of "IE Tough." When you play Upland, you know you're going to be sore on Saturday morning. That is a non-negotiable part of their identity.
Where the Big Time Talent Starts
You can't talk about this program without mentioning the NFL factory. Honestly, it’s kind of ridiculous when you look at the roster of alumni.
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Take a look at Justin Flowe. He was arguably the most feared linebacker in the entire country during his high school career. Seeing him fly around the field at Upland was like watching a man playing against boys. His energy was infectious, and it put the program on a national stage with ESPN cameras becoming a regular fixture at the stadium.
Then there’s Jeff Baca. Or Kenny Lawler, who went on to tear it up in the CFL after a stint at Cal. And we can't forget the legendary Steve Smith. Before he was winning a Super Bowl with the Giants or making Pro Bowls, he was the guy making everyone look silly on the Upland tracks.
- Marvin Jones Jr. – A true pro’s pro who has had a massive NFL career.
- Josh Shirley – A defensive beast who took his talents to the Pac-12.
- Taj Davis – Making waves at the collegiate level after being a standout wideout for the Scots.
The list goes on. This isn't just "good for the area." It's "good for the country." Scouts from the SEC, Big 10, and Big 12 are regulars at the Upland facilities because they know the kids here are coached up. They know the transition to college ball won't be as jarring because the Upland High School football program operates with a collegiate mindset.
The Rivalries That Define the City
Rancho Cucamonga. Just saying the name makes people in Upland get a bit defensive.
The rivalry between Upland and Rancho is one of the premier matchups in all of California. It’s more than just a game. It’s about bragging rights for the 210 freeway corridor. When these two teams meet, the stadium is usually at capacity two hours before kickoff. You’ve got alumni from thirty years ago standing on the sidelines, yelling just as loud as the current students.
What makes it great is the mutual respect hidden under the animosity. Most of these kids grew up playing with or against each other in youth leagues. They know each other’s families. They train at the same off-season facilities. But for 48 minutes on a Friday night? They want to erase each other.
The games are often decided by a single possession. A missed extra point here, a late-game interception there—that's the margin for error.
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Facing the Challenges of Modern High School Football
It hasn't all been easy. The landscape has changed.
The rise of "super-programs" like Mater Dei and St. John Bosco has shifted the power balance in Southern California. In the past, a school like Upland could keep every single elite athlete within its zip code. Now, there’s a lot of pressure on kids to transfer to private schools for more exposure.
Upland has had to adapt. They’ve upgraded their facilities. They’ve embraced social media to highlight their players. They've had to navigate coaching changes that naturally bring a bit of instability.
But here’s the thing: Upland still wins.
Even in "down" years, the Highlanders are a playoff threat. They don't rebuild; they reload. The community support is too strong for the program to ever truly fade away. The "Green Machine" keeps rolling because the kids in Upland still want to play for their hometown. There’s a pride in that which you can't buy with a private school scholarship.
What to Expect If You Go to a Game
If you’re planning on catching a game at Upland, here is the reality.
Park early. No, seriously. The parking situation can be a nightmare because the whole town shows up.
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The student section—the "Dog Pound"—is relentless. They are loud, they are coordinated, and they make it very uncomfortable for opposing quarterbacks. It’s one of the best atmospheres in SoCal high school sports.
You’ll see a mix of old-school football and modern flash. The Scots usually feature a defense that prioritizes speed and hitting power. Offensively, they tend to find ways to get their best athletes the ball in space. It’s fun to watch. It’s high-energy. It’s exactly what high school football should be.
Deep Intel for the True Fans
One thing people often overlook is the importance of the JV and Freshman programs at Upland. While the Varsity team gets the headlines, the developmental squads are where the "Upland Way" is taught.
You’ll see the same schemes and the same terminology being used at all levels. This means that by the time a kid is a junior, the system is second nature. That’s how you maintain consistency over thirty years. It’s about technical proficiency as much as it is about raw athleticism.
Also, keep an eye on the trench play. Upland has a weirdly consistent habit of producing massive, mobile offensive linemen. They call them the "Hogs" in some circles, and they are the reason the skill players look so good.
Actionable Insights for Parents and Players:
If you are looking to get involved with or support the Upland High School football program, keep these points in mind:
- Get involved early: The Upland High School football ecosystem starts with the Junior All-American programs. Developing chemistry with future teammates at age 10 or 11 is a massive advantage once you hit the high school level.
- Focus on the classroom: Upland has high standards for its athletes. If you want to be recruited like the pros who came before you, your GPA needs to be as impressive as your highlight reel. The coaching staff is very vocal about "No grades, no play."
- Off-season is mandatory: The Highland doesn't sleep. To compete in the Baseline League, players have to participate in the spring and summer conditioning programs. This is where the physical toughness is actually built.
- Support the Boosters: The program relies heavily on the Upland Football Boosters. Whether it’s through buying merchandise or volunteering at the snack bar, this community-funded model is what keeps the equipment updated and the travel costs covered.
- Check the schedule: Always verify game times via the official Upland High School Athletics page or MaxPreps, as CIF scheduling can shift due to heat advisories or television broadcasts.
The legacy of Upland High School football isn't just about the trophies in the lobby. It’s about the standard of excellence that every player is expected to meet. It's about being part of a brotherhood that lasts long after the final whistle blows. If you're in the Inland Empire on a Friday night, there is simply no better place to be than in the stands at Upland.