High School Football Championship Recap
This past weekend was an exciting time for high school football, especially for teams competing across Southern California. On December 14, various championship games showcased the talent and determination of young athletes in the CIF State playoffs.
In the Open Division, Mater Dei from Santa Ana dominated against De La Salle, finishing with a score of 37-15. This victory marked an impressive end to their season, leaving them unbeaten at 13-0. Mater Dei’s TE Mark Bowman caught a stunning 31-yard touchdown pass, and RB Jordon Davison capped off a lengthy 92-yard drive with a solid 15-yard score, sealing their championship win.
In Division 1-A, Edison achieved a dramatic 21-14 victory over Fresno Central, thanks to a last-minute 54-yard touchdown pass from Sam Thomson to Jake Minter, securing the Chargers’ first CIF state title.
The Division 2-A championship saw Palos Verdes overpower Twelve Bridges with a score of 55-19. Sophomore QB Ryan Rakowski starred with an incredible performance, throwing six touchdown passes and tying the championship game state record, contributing significantly to Palos Verdes’ first-ever state title in football.
In a nail-biter in Division 3-A, Vanden edged out Rio Hondo Prep in overtime with a score of 42-41. Noah Penunuri of Rio Hondo Prep scored a touchdown but was stopped short on a potential game-winning two-point conversion, handing Vanden the Division 3-A title.
Sonora earned their first state championship in Division 4-A, defeating St. Pius X-St. Matthias 52-34. Sonora’s running game was explosive, accumulating over 360 yards and five touchdowns throughout the match.
In Division 6-A, Arcata secured a tight victory over Portola with a score of 27-21 in overtime after a fumble by Portola cost them a chance to win. The decisive moment came when QB Luke Lemke scored on a 1-yard run.
A mix of close calls and dominant performances made for an entertaining weekend filled with unforgettable moments and showcases of talent. These championship games highlighted the dedication and hard work of student-athletes from across the region.
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
