The highly anticipated matchup between Archbishop Riordan and Serra High School for the West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL) championship will take place on Friday evening in San Mateo. This game marks the culmination of a season where both teams have consistently demonstrated their dominance in the league by winning week after week. The event will be particularly special for Serra as it is their only home night game of the season, creating a unique atmosphere with lights illuminating the field.
Game Highlights and Team Dynamics
Serra’s head coach, Patrick Walsh, acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by Riordan’s star quarterback, Michael Mitchell Jr.. Mitchell has had an outstanding season, accounting for 38 touchdowns, and has shattered league records, including his own for passing touchdowns in a season. “That quarterback over there is just, he’s so good,” Walsh stated. “He’s been the starter there for four years, and he’s just fantastic.”
Riordan has not only set a new record for points scored in a regular season with 395 points—surpassing their previous best of 380—but they are also determined to end a 25-year title drought. The last time Riordan lifted the WCAL trophy was in 2000, when they finished league play with a perfect 5-0 record under coach Ken Peralta. Current coach Adhir Ravipati has already set a school record for league wins this season, with six victories, and is aiming for a seventh against Serra.
If the stakes weren’t high enough, this game could set the stage for a potential rematch in the upcoming Central Coast Section (CCS) playoffs, making it an exciting time for fans of both teams.
Other League Updates and Highlights
In addition to the championship clash, several other schools are making headlines. Acalanes High School secured the Diablo Athletic League’s Foothill Division title with a 31-14 victory over Clayton Valley Charter. This win not only clinched the league title for the Dons but also positioned them for a chance to compete in the North Coast Section’s top playoff division, where they could face renowned powerhouse De La Salle. Coach Joel Isaac expressed confidence in the team’s preparations, stating, “We can only control what we can control.” Senior running back Josh Elerts praised Isaac’s innovative coaching style, highlighting the team’s resilience after the tragic loss of teammate Amin Noroozi last spring.
Meanwhile, Amador Valley High School head coach Danny Jones is navigating what will be his final season at the school. Following a tough start, the Dons rebounded with a decisive 35-14 win over Monte Vista, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Jones reflected on his decade-long tenure, saying, “It’s been a special 10 years here… but I still feel like we have a lot of games left to play this year.”
In another notable situation, Liberty High School is seeking compensation after their scheduled game against Antioch was forfeited due to misconduct. Athletic director Jon Heinz expressed concern regarding the financial implications of losing a home game, which typically covers a significant portion of their athletic budget. “It’s not fair to cancel on us and then not agree to come back the following year to make it right,” Heinz said, emphasizing the need for a solution.
As the week progresses, all eyes will be on the thrilling matchups ahead, particularly the showdown between Serra and Riordan that promises to captivate fans and define the WCAL season.
