2025 CIF San Diego Champions Crowned

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

Open Division Champions

Cathedral Catholic Dons

Def. Carlsbad 20-16

Cathedral Catholic staged one of the most stunning rallies in San Diego Section playoff history, erasing a 16-0 deficit with a furious fourth-quarter surge to defeat Carlsbad 20-16 and claim their fourth Open Division championship. The Dons (10-2) looked finished after Carlsbad quarterback Eli MacNeal connected with Travis Jeffery on a 48-yard touchdown in the third quarter, building on his earlier 27-yard scoring strike to Ethan Meyerhoff and a 37-yard Beckham Filippini field goal that had the Lancers cruising with a 16-0 lead. But Cathedral Catholic's offense awakened in the final period, beginning with Honor Faalave-Johnson's five-yard rushing touchdown before quarterback Brady Palmer delivered the game's defining moment—a soaring 71-yard touchdown pass to Isaac Cook that made it 16-13. With under a minute remaining, the Dons completed their remarkable comeback with a four-yard rushing touchdown to take their first lead at 20-16, then held on through the final seconds to secure the crown. The devastating loss marked Carlsbad's (10-2) fourth defeat in an Open Division title game, as they were unable to protect their advantage despite dominating for three quarters behind MacNeal's strong performance and a defense that had completely bottled up the Dons until the fourth quarter explosion.

Division I Champions

Granite Hills Eagles

Def. Lincoln 41-29

Granite Hills claimed its fourth straight section championship by overcoming an early deficit in a physical, back-and-forth thriller that saw the lead change hands multiple times before the Eagles prevailed. After Rashad Robinson's explosive touchdown run put Lincoln up 14-0, junior quarterback Zachary Benitez sparked the comeback by connecting with Zhedan Smith to make it 14-7. Gage Spalding's rushing touchdown tied it 14-14, but Junior Curtis answered to restore the Hornets' lead at 21-14. Just before halftime, Benitez delivered a spectacular 65-yard strike to Noah Walker, though the missed extra point left Lincoln ahead 21-20 at the break. Granite Hills seized control in the third quarter when Benitez found Walker on an eight-yard touchdown pass for a 26-21 lead, but Robinson responded with another touchdown run and two-point conversion to put Lincoln back on top 29-26. The Eagles answered immediately as Benitez hit Walker for their third scoring connection, giving Granite Hills a 33-29 advantage entering the fourth quarter. After surviving a missed field goal attempt, Spalding delivered the knockout blow with a late touchdown run with 1:25 remaining to seal the victory. Benitez finished with a phenomenal 16-of-25 performance for 309 yards and four touchdowns while adding eight rushing yards, orchestrating an offense that accumulated 500 total yards. Walker was unstoppable with seven receptions for 189 yards and three touchdowns, while Smith contributed three catches for 71 yards and a score. Spalding powered the ground game with 101 yards and two touchdowns on 17 carries, complemented by Anthony Mattar's 25 yards and Seth Rodriquez's 40 yards. The Eagles' defense dominated when it mattered most, led by Braydon Wells' 10 tackles, while Wyatt MacLeod wreaked havoc with 10 tackles, four tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. Parker Johnson added 13 tackles and a tackle for loss.

Prep Football: Santa Fe Christian Survives Thriller to Win Division 2 Crown, Perfect Season Continues

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

In a heart-stopping battle that came down to the final minutes, Santa Fe Christian (13-0) survived a furious Steele Canyon comeback to claim the CIF San Diego Division II championship 44-41 on Friday night, continuing their campaign as the only undefeated team remaining in the San Diego Section. The Eagles, coached by a staff that includes NFL legend Drew Brees as an assistant, delivered a championship performance befitting their historic season.

Quarterback Dax Labrum put on a championship clinic, throwing for five touchdown passes to lead the Eagles' high-powered offense. Labrum found his favorite target Chase Woolley three times in the end zone, including a spectacular 51-yard strike in the third quarter. Woolley's impact extended beyond receiving, as he delivered a crucial kickoff return deep into Steele Canyon territory in the fourth quarter that set up what proved to be the game-winning touchdown. Kicker Bradan Scott, who also caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from Labrum, was flawless on the night, converting all six extra points and drilling three field goals from 21, 37, and 43 yards out.

The game featured multiple momentum swings and showcased the resilience of both teams. Steele Canyon struck first with an 80-yard touchdown pass and a 98-yard kickoff return for a score to take an early 14-10 lead, but Santa Fe Christian seized control in the second quarter, outscoring the Cougars 17-0 to build a commanding 30-14 halftime advantage. The Cougars refused to go quietly, clawing back with 27 second-half points including a late fourth-quarter touchdown by Sinan Khudur that cut the deficit to just three points at 44-41 with minutes remaining.

Santa Fe Christian's ability to answer every Steele Canyon challenge in the final quarter proved to be the difference. When the Cougars scored to make it 37-34, the Eagles immediately responded with Labrum's fifth touchdown pass following Woolley's big return. The Eagles then controlled the clock in the final minutes to secure the title. Steele Canyon's season ends at 9-4 after a valiant effort, while Santa Fe Christian will advance to the State Playoffs, where they'll look to continue their perfect season and bring another championship back to Solana Beach.

Prep Football: Tigers Roar to Division 5 Championship

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

The Morse Tigers (9-4) captured their first CIF section football championship since 2018 with a commanding 45-30 victory over the Hoover Cardinals (7-7) in Friday's Division 5 title game.

Senior athlete Superior Garror put on a championship performance for the ages, accounting for four touchdowns including three on the ground and a spectacular 60-yard punt return for a score. Garror's explosive runs of 42, 16, and 32 yards for touchdowns kept Hoover's defense scrambling all night. Quarterback Ethan Esmailian complemented the ground attack with two touchdown passes, connecting with Alex Smith and De'Vell Green, as the Tigers built an insurmountable lead.

The game remained scoreless through the first quarter before Morse broke through with a Christopher Felix Martinez field goal early in the second. From there, the Tigers never looked back, outscoring Hoover 17-6 in the second quarter to take control. Despite Hoover quarterback Hezekiah Manuel's valiant efforts throwing three touchdown passes to keep the Cardinals in the fight, Morse's balanced offensive attack and opportunistic defense proved too much to overcome. The Tigers' defense came up with crucial stops throughout the game, including key tackles for loss from Gael Diaz, Edward Walker, and Mekhi Toliver, while Rochadd Laban added a momentum-shifting sack in the fourth quarter.

The championship marks a triumphant return to glory for a Morse program that has been building toward this moment after finishing 1-9 last season. With a raucous crowd supporting them and the weight of their community's expectations on their shoulders, the Tigers delivered when it mattered most, adding another chapter to the school's rich football tradition and bringing the trophy back home to Skyline Drive.

Prep Football: Cathedral Catholic Rallies to Win Open Division Title

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

Cathedral Catholic 20, Carlsbad 16

In one of the most dramatic finishes in San Diego Section Open Division history, the Cathedral Catholic Dons (10-2) erased a 16-point deficit with an explosive fourth quarter to defeat the Carlsbad Lancers (10-2) 20-16 and capture their fourth Open Division championship.

The comeback seemed improbable as Carlsbad dominated the first three quarters. The Lancers jumped ahead 7-0 in the second quarter when quarterback Eli MacNeal connected with Ethan Meyerhoff on a 27-yard touchdown pass. Beckham Filippini added a 37-yard field goal before halftime to extend the lead to 10-0.

Carlsbad appeared to put the game away early in the third quarter when MacNeal found Travis Jeffery for a 48-yard touchdown strike, giving the Lancers a commanding 16-0 advantage.

But the Dons refused to quit.

2024 CIF Section Champions Crowned

The first playoff under San Diego Section's new divisional system not only delivered on its promise of competitive matchups but produced a series of historic moments across all divisions. From St. Augustine's remarkable transformation from winless regular season to Division III champions, to Monte Vista becoming the first 12-seed to win a section title, the 2024 championships showcased the unpredictable magic of high school football. 

The weekend also featured exceptional individual performances, including Monte Vista's Alex Villanueva breaking the section's single-season rushing record in their Division V title game, while Lincoln avenged last year's heartbreaking Open Division loss despite playing the entire season without a home field. From the dominant offensive showcase of Poway's 62-point explosion in Division II to El Capitan's defensive masterclass in Division IV, each championship game offered its own compelling narrative. Even in the 8-man ranks, St. Joseph Academy finally broke through after two runner-up finishes to claim their first football title, while Calipatria ended years of struggles to secure their program's first championship in Division V-AA.

Here's a recap of all the action as we congratulate not only the eight newly crowned champions, but every single student-athlete who competed this season. The future of San Diego football is bright thanks to your efforts.

Prep Football: Monte Vista & St. Augustine make history, Granite Hills earns third straight title

Cinderella Story: Monte Vista Claims Division 5 Title as Historic 12-Seed

In a stunning conclusion to an improbable playoff run, the Monte Vista Monarchs defeated the No. 2 seed Bonita Vista Barons 38-21 to claim the CIF San Diego Division 5 championship. The victory marks the first time in CIF San Diego playoff history that a 12-seed has captured a championship title.

Senior running back Alexander Villanueva didn't just break records; he shattered expectations with a legendary performance, carrying the ball 46 times for 297 yards and all five Monarch touchdowns. His final touchdown sealed both the championship and his place in San Diego Section history, pushing his season total to 3,006 yards - surpassing the previous record of 2,974 set by former Mission Bay standout Dillon Baxter in 2009.

These historic moments almost never happened. After finishing the regular season with a 5-5 record that included several heartbreaking losses, Monte Vista was initially left out of the playoff picture. However, when Rancho Buena Vista opted out of their playoff spot, the Monarchs received new life as the final team in the bracket.

Prep Football: Poway & El Capitan earn championship wins

Poway Dominates Second Half to Claim Division II Title with 62-24 Victory

Fourth-seeded Poway completed their remarkable playoff run with a dominant 62-24 victory over No. 2 Mater Dei Catholic in the CIF San Diego Section Division II championship game at Southwestern College's Devore Stadium, turning a competitive first half into a second-half rout with six touchdowns.

"The terminology helps us be able to adapt, and to be adaptable is something that's effective for offenses," Poway's first-year Head Coach Brandon Harris explained after the game. "It takes about a year to get it, and they've learned it now. They're running it really, really well right now."

The Titans' offense showcased their explosiveness early when quarterback Ty Hurst connected with Colin McCann for a 37-yard touchdown strike. McCann had a phenomenal night, recording 168 yards receiving with three scores and adding a 14-yard touchdown run on a jet sweep.

"It was just the game plan. Credit to the coaches - they come up with a great game plan and they just have me go out there and execute and make the plays that I know I can make," McCann said after the game, particularly praising Coach Harris and the special teams coordinators.

After Angel Mendoza's 33-yard field goal got Mater Dei Catholic on the board, Poway's offense continued to dominate. The Crusaders showed life when quarterback Kartell Purvis connected with Julian Cromartie for a spectacular 73-yard touchdown pass, but Poway's momentum proved unstoppable.

Luke Jorgensen also had a great night on the ground for the Titans, recording 18 carries for 133 and two trips to the end zone.

"The game's always been and always will be about playmakers," Coach Harris noted when discussing his team's offensive performance. "Those that make plays will play, and those guys have made plays for us all season long."

Looking ahead to the Southern California Regionals, Harris remained focused: "Just keep on working. We're going to go do our work, do what we do, go out and compete, and do what we got to do to get ready for whoever we got to face."

For McCann, who celebrated with the championship trophy, the victory was especially sweet. "I'm feeling great, ready to celebrate with my team and just reflect on all the work and how it paid off," he said.

The victory advances Poway (6-7) to the Southern California Regionals, completing a remarkable turnaround for a team that peaked at the perfect time. The Titans, who set a school record for scoring in their semifinal victory, showcased their complete transformation with another dominant offensive performance in the championship game.

El Capitan Claims Division IV Championship with 17-14 Victory Over Westview

The El Capitan Vaqueros' defense proved to be the cornerstone of their second section championship victory in program history, grinding out a hard-fought 17-14 win over the No. 5 seed Westview Wolverines. 

The victory marks No. 2 El Capitan's ninth consecutive win and secured them a spot in the CIF Southern California Regionals.

2023 CIF Section Champions Crowned

Here's a recap of all the action as we congratulate the newly crowned champions and wish the best of luck to the teams representing the San Diego Section in the State Playoffs.

2022 CIF Section Champions Crowned

Following another fantastic series of CIF San Diego Section Championship games, it's now time to root for San Diego as six of our seven champions prepare to represent us in the CIF State Playoffs.

Congratulations to Lincoln, Mater Dei Catholic, Granite Hills, University City, Palo Verde Valley, Classical Academy, and Victory Christian on their hard-earned victories.

Lincoln's 4th quarter explosion clinches Open Division Title

Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography

Justin Johnson intercepted KJ Chatham's pass and returned it 47 yards to the end zone, giving Carlsbad what appeared to be a commanding 21-6 lead with 11:46 left to play. 

While some players may have folded after a significant error, Chatham responded by throwing touchdown passes on his next three drives, leading the Hornets to a 28-24 comeback victory for the first Open Division Championship at Snapdragon Stadium.

On the opening play from scrimmage, Mason Walsh set the tone for the Lancers with a 74-yard touchdown run. Rod Robinson II scored later in the first quarter, but a missed extra point kept the Lancers ahead 7-6 with 4:57 remaining.

Walsh's second score of the game was set up by another lengthy run, giving Carlsbad a 14-6 lead at the half.

After Johnson's pick-six early in the fourth quarter increased the Lancers' lead to 21-6, Chatham found Josiah Cox, who made a tough grab in the corner of the endzone to trim the lead to 21-13.

After another long run by Walsh was stopped near the goal line by Chris White, Carlsbad was forced to settle for a 31-yard field goal by Tyler Prasuhn to make the score 24-13.

Chatham struck again on the first play of the ensuing drive, this time to Mahki Gray who burned the Lancers' defense for a 75-yard catch and run to the end zone. With 6:02 remaining, Raylon Logan's two-point conversion catch from Chatham made it 24-21.

Chatham connected with Corey Thompson-Miller, who broke away from numerous defenders on his way to a 65-yard touchdown that sealed the Hornets' first Open Division title in program history.

Walsh finished with 15 carries for 202 yards and two scores for the Lancers. On 24 carries, Robinson II rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown. With two sacks, Chris Fewell led a strong defensive performance that helped sparked Lincoln's rally.

2021 CIF Section Champions Crowned

Open Division Champions

Cathedral Catholic Dons (10-2)

Def. Carlsbad 48-19

Division I Champions

Helix Highlanders (9-3)

Def. Lincoln 28-21

Division II Champions

Scripps Ranch Falcons (11-1)

Def. La Jolla 42-0

Division III Champions

Mater Dei Catholic Crusaders (12-0)

Def. Ramona 37-10

Division IV Champions

Patrick Henry Patriots (10-2)

Def. University City 49-21

Division V Champions

Palo Verde Valley Yellow Jackets (11-2)

Def. Mission Bay 41-19

8-Man Champions

San Diego Jewish Academy (9-0)

Def. Victory Christian 50-28

2019 CIF Section Champions Crowned

After another outstanding series of CIF San Diego Section Championship games, it's now time to root for the entire county of San Diego as six of our seven champions get set to represent us in the CIF State Playoffs.

Congratulations to Helix, Oceanside, El Camino, La Jolla, Serra, Francis Parker, and Foothills Christian on their hard-earned victories.

2018 CIF Section Champions Crowned

City Conference teams dominated the 2018 CIF San Diego Section Championship by claiming five of its six 11-man titles. 

Winners of the top three divisions came from the Western League (Cathedral, St. Augustine, & Lincoln), while Orange Glen represented the North County as its only champion.

We would like to congratulate 8-man champion Foothills Christian, and the six teams who advances to the CIF State Playoffs.

2017 CIF Section Champions Crowned

We would like to congratulate the six teams who won their respective 2017 CIF San Diego Section Championship, and will advance to the CIF State Playoffs.

2016 CIF Section Champions Crowned

We would like to congratulate the six teams who won the CIF San Diego Section Championship and will advance to the CIF State Playoffs.

2015 CIF Section Champions Crowned

For the second straight season, the CIF San Diego Section Championship games took place at DeVore Stadium on the campus of Southwestern College in Chula Vista, and once again it was a huge success.

Highlighted by a much anticipated showdown between the No. 1 and 2 ranked teams in the county, spectators showed up in full force to help pack the house and support their respective schools.

Here's a recap of all the action as we congratulate the six newly crowned champions and wish them the best of luck as they represent the San Diego Section in the Regional Football Championship Bowl Games.

2014 CIF Section Champions Crowned

The newly renovated DeVore Stadium at Southwestern College was the stage where six CIF San Diego Section Championships were decided. With packed stands and high praise from the people in attendance, the Chula Vista venue turned out to be a huge success. But you can also credit the 12 teams that competed for providing the action.

As we recap the games, we would like to congratulate all six San Diego Section champions and wish the best of luck to the three teams selected to represent the county in the state playoffs.

2013 CIF Section Champions Crowned

 

 

The season-long debate over who's the No. 1 team in the county has finally come to a close. Mission Hills made it perfectly clear after defeating Oceanside to claim the first-ever San Diego Section Open Division title at Qualcomm Stadium.

2012 CIF Section Champions Crowned

Chick Embrey Field at Escondido High was the stage where five new division champions reigned supreme. Two of those teams will be representing San Diego county in the CIF State Bowl Playoffs.

2011 CIF Section Champions Crowned

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