After rough start, Woodbridge gets on track and earns home game for playoff opener

Woodbridge High School’s football players and coaches. (Photo courtesy Woodbridge athletics).

It was a happy day Friday when Woodbridge football players and coaches learned the team had earned a CIF playoff berth.

It was an even better day Sunday when Coach Connor McBride and his squad found out the team will get a home game for its CIF Division 13 playoff opener against Desert Hot Springs.

The game will be Friday at 7 p.m. at University where the Warriors play their home games. Woodbridge (2-8) got into the playoffs Friday when University defeated Katella, forcing a three-way tie for third place. Woodbridge won a coin flip Thursday.

A young Warrior team started the season 0-7, but steadily improved, winning two league games to earn a playoff berth.

“We are thrilled to be continuing our season and making it to playoffs,” said McBride. “This year has had many moments of adversity, yet our players and staff coaching never gave up. They stayed determined, trusted the process, and are deserving of earning a CIF playoff spot. I believe we are still improving each and every day, which will be an important factor in making a deep run this post season. 

“Round one being at home makes it even more special. An opportunity to play another game in front of our school, family, and friends means a ton for the program. Our student section, entertainment corps and other supportive students and staff create a home game atmosphere that truly brings an advantage leading to success.”

Desert Hot Springs (5-5) is the No. 2 team from the Sun Valley League.

“We know Desert Hot Springs will be a tough opponent who has earned their spot,” McBride said. “They will be ready to compete on Friday. All in all, we look forward and are thankful to continue playing football this week.”

Woodbridge is led by freshman quarterback Waylon Stone and senior running back Kayjahn Pitts on offense.

On defense, senior linebacker David Bosley and senior defensive end Avery Hur lead the way for the Warriors.

The winner of Friday’s game moves on to face the winner of the Nordhoff-Buena Park game on Friday, Nov. 14. Buena Park (5-5) earned an at-large berth from the Omicron League.

Saddleback, the Zeta League champion, is the top seeded team in the division. Buena Park is also home on Friday.

—Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com