After memorable run to CIF title, Esperanza looking to bring home a state crown

Esperanza players celebrate after winning a CIF title Saturday night. (Photo courtesy Esperanza football)

It’s been an exciting week for Esperanza football players, coaches and fans as they celebrated the school’s CIF Division 13 title.

Esperana won the title, the first CIF crown since 1992, with a 42-40 victory on the road in the championship game Saturday against Ramona.

Now, the Aztecs have a chance to make the season even more memorable.

Esperanza (10-4) takes on Reseda (10-3) Saturday at 6 p.m. at Yorba Linda High in the CIF State 5A Southern Regional. The winner goes on to face the winner of the Milipitas vs. Caruthers game in the state final next Saturday at host school sites.

“We’ve tried really hard to bring some pride back to a program that has a tradition of excellence, but now we have an opportunity to do something that no other Aztec football team has ever done,” said Esperanza Coach Wes Choate.

“What a story that could be for our seniors. Go from the losingest class to a class that earns a state championship. That’s the goal and everybody from admin, teachers, and parents are helping us try to achieve this goal vs. a very good Reseda team this Saturday.”

Ever since the Aztecs pulled off the victory Saturday, there have been fond memories among players and coaches. It was Esperanza’s first time in the finals since 2005 and the team was able to bring home the school’s fourth CIF football title.

“Our CIF championship was like a heavyweight fight,” Choate said. “We came out looking for the knockout early and Ramona is such a tough team that they kept battling back. 

“How many high school games do you know have 69 points scored in the first half and only 13 scored in the second half?”

Walter Gooding led the way for Esperanza.

“Walter Gooding made a great statement for his place as division offensive MVP with 352 yards rushing and four TDs on 26 carries,” Choate said. “Over the four playoff games Walter has rushed for 1,010 yards and 12 TDs.

“Our defense, as well as Ramona’s was great in the second half. Alex Lopez, our middle linebacker, finished with 18 tackles, two tackles for a loss, one sack, and an interception, not to mention a 67-yard TD reception.”

Choate said the playoff run was special for him.

“Our playoff run, especially these last two games will be something I remember for the rest of my life,” he said. “Just incredible, hard fought high school football games that we happened to come out on top this time with.  I can’t wait to get my first CIF championship ring after losing personally three times before.”

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