Archbishop Riordan Clinches First WCAL Title Since 2000

BREAKING NEWS: Archbishop Riordan has secured its first West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL) championship since 2000 with a thrilling 42-35 victory over Serra in San Mateo. This landmark win marks a historic turnaround for the Crusaders, who were down 14-0 early in the match.

Riordan’s head coach, Adhir Ravipati, described the championship game as a heavyweight bout, emphasizing the need for resilience and strategy. “This is a title match,” he stated, “you’re gonna have to throw some jabs, some counterpunches. And then? You gotta throw the knockout.”

That knockout came at a pivotal moment with just 3:15 left in the game when junior running back Adonyae Brown dashed for a stunning 53-yard touchdown, extending Riordan’s lead to 42-28. This decisive play solidified the Crusaders’ victory, ensuring they never trailed after tying the game early in the second half.

Quarterback Michael Mitchell Jr. played a vital role in the comeback, showcasing a strong performance that reflected the team’s growth over the past few years. “It feels great,” Mitchell expressed post-game. “It’s always nice when you know you’ve been working at something and you finally get it.”

The journey to this championship began two years ago when Mitchell joined the team and Ravipati took the helm. The Crusaders have steadily improved from a 3-7 record in 2022 to an unbeaten streak of 10-0 this season, culminating in this triumphant achievement. This victory also avenged a devastating 53-7 loss to Serra that knocked them out of championship contention previously.

Mitchell reflected on that loss, saying, “Last time I was on this field, I told myself, ‘Never again.’” His determination fueled the team’s drive to succeed on this critical day.

Brown, a key figure in the Crusaders’ rushing attack, demonstrated remarkable tenacity despite battling cramps during the game. “I just fought through it the whole entire time,” he said, crediting his teammates for their support. “I know I need my team, so I’m gonna do whatever it takes.” His performance, including three touchdowns, was instrumental in securing the championship.

As the final whistle blew, the weight of the victory sank in for the Crusaders. This championship not only signifies a return to glory but also highlights the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff over the years. Fans and players alike are celebrating this monumental moment that marks a new chapter in Riordan’s football history.

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on Archbishop Riordan as they aim to build on this success and establish themselves as a dominant force in high school football. The community’s enthusiasm is palpable, and the Crusaders are ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead.