BREAKING: In a stunning turnaround, Bishop O’Dowd has claimed the North Coast Section Division VI championship, defeating Fortuna 59-21 on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Moreau Catholic High School in Hayward. After a rocky start to the season with a 1-3 record, the Dragons celebrated their first title in seven years with a dominating performance that left fans and players ecstatic.
The Dragons, led by standout junior running back Lamar Ellis, surged ahead early, scoring three touchdowns in the first quarter alone. Ellis rushed for an impressive 186 yards and five touchdowns, showcasing his exceptional skills throughout the game. “I’m feeling great,” said Ellis post-game. “We came a long way. We were doubted at the start. Started off 1-3, and now look at us.”
Despite the fourth-seeded Fortuna’s tenacity, which included a thrilling 93-yard kickoff return touchdown by Michael Shaw just after halftime, O’Dowd remained unfazed. The team’s resilience was evident as Ellis responded with a remarkable 59-yard run on the very next play, quickly extending the lead back to 38-21.
Head coach Hardy Nickerson praised Ellis, stating, “He’s just unbelievable. He’s as good as I’ve seen.” The coach highlighted the offensive line’s crucial role in creating opportunities for Ellis, who consistently found gaps and powered through tackles.
The game showcased not only Ellis’s prowess but also the burgeoning talent of the Dragons. Quarterback Christian Cermenelli-Johnson contributed significantly, throwing for 116 yards and running for 58 yards. The young team, filled with underclassmen, is poised for future success, as they now prepare for the CIF NorCal regionals, with matchups set to be announced on Sunday.
The victory celebration was electrifying. Players and fans waved the Dragon flag, and the team joyously drenched Coach Nickerson with Gatorade. The atmosphere was filled with pride and elation, a stark contrast to the doubts that surrounded the team earlier in the season.
As the Dragons look ahead, the excitement is palpable. “Even though we had Thanksgiving, we still came, showed out, balled out,” said Bryan Edwards, another standout who dazzled with a touchdown and a 60-yard punt return for a score. “We’re too good,” he declared, reflecting the confidence that has grown within the team.
With their title secured and a promising future ahead, Bishop O’Dowd is now focused on their next challenge. The journey from a struggling start to championship glory serves as an inspiring story of resilience and teamwork, making them a team to watch in the upcoming NorCal regionals.
