This Paradise Panthers Sports Minute is brought to you by Lowery Metals
Paradise closed the 2025 football season with one of the strongest campaigns in program history, as first-year head coach Tommy Koch guided the Panthers to a 12-2 record, a district championship and a No. 2 ranking in the Class 3A Division I state poll.
Paradise claimed the District 4-3A title and advanced to the Region I championship game, where its season ended in heartbreaking fashion with a 17-14 loss to district rival Peaster in the closing seconds. The defeat left the Panthers one win shy of a return trip to the state semifinals.
Defense was the foundation of Paradise’s success throughout the season. The Panthers allowed just 11 points per game, recorded three shutouts and held five additional opponents to fewer than 10 points.
Looking ahead, Paradise returns key pieces for 2026. Quarterback Ayden Olalde is set to return for his senior season after throwing for nearly 2,800 yards and 31 touchdowns. Koch will need to replace dynamic playmaker Luke Brown, who accounted for more than 1,500 combined rushing and receiving yards. With much of the defense expected back, the Panthers enter the offseason with optimism and high expectations.