Inside Newport Harbor Football with Coach Burns

Newport Harbor Football with Head Coach Matt Burns (0:00)
Anchors Away plays as Moe and Kevin welcome Newport Harbor alum Matt Burns (Class of ’94) to the show. Coach shares stories from summer—including fishing trips and time with family—along with his roots in Iowa and Colorado.

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Tradition Runs Deep (1:00)
Coach Burns reflects on the power of Sailor tradition, the “long gray line,” and the brotherhood that continues long after graduation. Staying connected to the program is part of the culture.

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Teaching & Coaching Journey (3:00)
From being inspired by his own teachers to becoming Newport’s physiology teacher and now Head Coach, Burns walks through his journey—from student to staff.

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League Realignment Thoughts (4:35)
Coach shares his honest opinion on the Sunset League dissolving for football, how rivalries are lost, but also why the Bravo League brings great competition.

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Transfers & The Business of High School Football (6:00)
Transfers are changing the game. Coach Burns expresses concern over players leaving their hometown schools and reminds athletes they can get noticed anywhere if they work hard.

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NIL’s Growing Influence (7:15)
The crew dives into the effect NIL is having at the high school level. Coach shares stories from college coaches and ideas on how transfer rules should be structured.

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2025 Season Preview (8:50)
With returning talent on the O-line—Chris Foster, Jagger Denoon, Mario Miranda, and Emiliano “Big E” Torres—the Sailors are focused on strength training and implementing the T formation.

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Scheduling Struggles, Playoff Picture & League Format (10:30)
Coach discusses how difficult it’s become to find opponents, especially in Orange County. The power rating system discourages strong matchups. Every game is a grind in the Bravo League.

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Battle of the Bay (14:25)
One of the best rivalries in Southern California, Coach Burns shares memories of Newport vs. CdM, what the rivalry means, and why the move to OCC is a big deal. Key to winning? Play harder.

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New Rivalries Brewing (17:40)
With league changes, San Juan Hills and others are becoming new rivals to watch—raising the intensity every Friday night.

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Feeder Program Focus (18:30)
Coach talks about the growth of Pop Warner and Patriot youth teams and why building the lower levels is key to long-term program strength.

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TAR TV & Media Access (19:15)
Newport games are broadcast live via TAR TV and NFHS, making it easier for fans to stay connected all season.

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Coach Burns’ Favorite Memories (20:20)
From playing in the ’92 Battle of the Bay to coaching standout moments like Mike Tunny’s big hit vs. Villa Park in ’99, Burns shares the unforgettable moments that defined his journey.

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Fundraising & Community Support (23:20)
Coach highlights major fundraisers—from the lift-a-thon to the 17th Street fireworks stand with the dunk tank, and a growing Christmas tree sale. Local support powers the Sailor football program.

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Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts (25:00)
Coach Burns closes the episode with gratitude, excitement for the upcoming season, and appreciation for everyone in Sailor Nation.

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A big thank you to Coach Matt Burns for joining Sunset Rewind and sharing not only his football insights, but his heart for the Newport Harbor community.