The Bishop’s Knights and the Santa Fe Christian Eagles began the battle for the title of 2024 Coastal League Champions at 7:00 pm on Saturday, November 2nd. But, for the Knights, the battle-prep started earlier in the day during their traditional pre-game rituals.
Before every football game, the Knights traditionally host a team chapel to get in the right mindset. What set this chapel apart from other team chapels, however, was the honoring of the seniors and their dedication to the team throughout their years at Bishop’s.
At chapel that day, each senior gave speeches; they reflected on their time on this team and the lingering legacy they want to leave. Tears were shed, according to Isaiah Garcia (‘27), but the boys’ ability to show this kind of vulnerability is what allows the Bishop’s Knights Football team to connect with each other.
When reflecting on senior chapel that day, Nick Pfister (‘27) said, “it was pretty emotional, but shows the true [bond] of the team, and the love we have for each other.” All of the senior football players have been part of the team since they were freshman, according to Ruben Gutierrez (‘25). “We are all super close, and we at Bishop’s share a special bond that other teams don’t have,” Ruben said. This deep connection between the players is often what fuels them to want to win not just for the title…but for each other.
On game day, when asked how he felt about the upcoming championship, Jonah Garcia (‘27) said, “we’re just ready to go out there and do our best” saying that, “all the guys want to play with more heart than usual.” Aware that this game could be the seniors’ last home game, the team prepared to put their all into the game no matter the outcome.
One moment that stuck out was seeing quarterback Cash Herrera (‘26) and Ruben, a running back, kneeling in the end zone before the game started. In the midst of the adrenaline rush of the evernearing game and all the commotion around them these two players were still able to come together showing the support that the team will always have for one another when entering into a challenge.
The game started slow but quickly picked up, with the Eagles scoring two touchdowns by the end of the first quarter and the Knights with one. The game was fast and fierce, as both teams added points to the scoreboard and fought for victory through the rain which made multiple appearances.
Although the game might not have gone the way the Knights hoped with a final score of 24 -17 the Knights down, the true values of the team were shown. The team cares about being there for each other through thick and thin especially when entering into a challenge.
The Knights, the number seven seed, had the opportunity to move on to compete in the Division II CIF playoffs, and after winning the game against Mt. Carmel (tenth seed) on Friday, November 8th, they will continue through the playoffs. Traveling to Chula Vista, the team takes on Mater Dei Catholic, the number two seed, at 7:00 P.M. on Friday, November 15th. Let’s wish them the best of luck! Roll Knights!
