The energy was palpable on Friday night as the varsity football team (4-6) faced off against longtime rivals La Costa Canyon High School (10-0). With a packed stadium and spirited cheers from both schools, the Falcons went into the game determined to put up a fight for their last league game in Ed Burke Stadium. Despite the team’s best efforts, LCC came out on top, shutting out the Falcons with a final score of 28-0.
The Falcons started the game with strong defense, working hard to keep the Mavericks at bay.
“We went in to win the game,” tight end and linebacker Kevin Jackson (11) said. “We had confidence in ourselves, teammates and coaching.”
Even with LCC’s tough lineup, the Falcons were optimistic and committed to playing their best game.
By the end of the second quarter, LCC held a 7-0 lead. During halftime, Reid Habas (12) and Audrey Davidson (12) competed against LCC for the annual Senior Survivor face off. Habas and Davidson clinched a close victory.
As the second half began, the Falcons pushed harder, with interceptions by wide receiver and defensive back Cole Loizu (12) and defensive back Nolan Seelhorst (10) helping to shift the teams momentum.
Key offensive plays included a 25-yard pass received by Seelhorst and a 44-yard pass completed to Kingston Bankston, demonstrating the Falcons’ efforts to press forward despite LCC’s strong defense. The Falcons racked up 118 total yards, with 106 coming from passing and 12 from rushing.
However, LCC’s offense proved difficult to contain, and they continued to widen the gap on the scoreboard.
“We were bummed,” Jackson said. “However, we felt like we gave it our all. We knew going into it that it was going to be a tough game. LCC is a very good team, and we respect them.”
Varsity football head coach Scott Ashby praised the specific players and the team’s resilience despite the final score.
“I’m proud of the way our guys played,” Ashby said “They showed heart and grit throughout the game. LCC is a talented team, but our defense played very very well. Bryce Simon had an excellent game as well as Elias Banks.”
The Mavericks dominated the second half, scoring three more touchdowns to secure the win. Despite the loss, there was no shortage of pride and dedication in the Falcons’ efforts.
“We need to keep working and giving 100% into everything we do,” Seelhorst said.
Although the Falcons ultimately fell short, the rivalry game was a powerful reminder of their grit and determination. As they now turn their attention to CIF playoffs, Ashby reflects on the nature of competition.
“I would say that anyone who is an athlete or does anything in any form of competitive spirit, understands that sometimes some things don’t move your way,” Ashby said. “What you need to do is to pick yourself up and face the new challenges that come along.”
