Lompoc HS looking for first CIF Football Title since 2003

Posted: Dec 10, 2010 6:35 PM by Ariel Wesler

After last year's lackluster 1-9 season, the Lompoc High School Football team had something to prove and they did. The football team is 10-3 after a magical turnaround. By the end of the night, players could be holding up a championship trophy.

Students and staff packed the gym at Lompoc High school for a pregame pep rally. One by One, the players came out to a roar from the crowd.

"Those are my seniors. Those are the people I've been with since grade school, and we get to root them on. It's a really awesome feeling," said ASB President Casey Stumpo.

Andrew Jones has led his team to the championship game in his first year as head coach. He was the quarterback the last time the school won it all in 2003. He credits his players for the incredible turnaround.

"Nobody thought you guys would be here right now and you guys have proved everybody wrong, so let's just keep doing it," Jones said.

"We just came out for a purpose. We just wanted to settle for a goal, and we're almost there," said Senior Running Back Marcell Blow.

Players say they've felt the excitement on campus all week long.

"I can't even explain it. Goosebumps. Butterflies. Everything. We're excited. We're ready," said Senior Wide Receiver Drew Sapp.

For seniors, this could be their last game.

"It's gonna come from the heart tonight," said Senior Tight End Zac Powell.

When the Lompoc Braves take the field tonight, they'll be playing for more than just a CIF Championship, they'll be representing their community.

"This whole school is behind us, just supporting us and especially, we already know that the city is going to be here supporting us tonight," Blow said.

The school set up extra bleachers in the end zone and fans were out early today, saving some of the best seats in the house for the biggest game of the year.

The school expects at least 8,000 thousand people at the game tonight. Kickoff is set for 7:00.

We have crews at both of these big games. We'll bring you all the highlights tonight on our news at eleven.