BREAKING: Bishop O’Dowd has clinched the North Coast Section Division VI championship with an emphatic 59-21 victory over Fortuna on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Moreau Catholic High in Hayward. This stunning win marks O’Dowd’s first title in seven years, transforming a rocky season start into a triumphant finish.
The Dragons, who began the season with a 1-3 record, faced significant challenges, including a late-season loss to James Logan. But on Saturday, they showcased their resilience and talent, celebrating with a Gatorade shower for head coach Hardy Nickerson as they hoisted the championship trophy high.
Star junior running back Lamar Ellis ignited the Dragons’ offense, rushing for an incredible 186 yards and scoring five touchdowns on just 16 carries. His explosive performance included three touchdowns in the first quarter, propelling O’Dowd to a 21-7 lead.
Despite a spirited effort from Fortuna, which cut the deficit to 31-21 with a 93-yard kickoff return by Michael Shaw, O’Dowd quickly responded. On the very first play after halftime, Ellis delivered a stunning 59-yard run, setting up his fourth touchdown moments later to extend the lead to 38-21.
Coach Nickerson praised Ellis’s performance, stating, “He’s just unbelievable. He finds the right hole, has the acceleration, and the power to run through tackles. He does it all.” The Dragons’ defense also shone, stopping Fortuna on a crucial fourth down, allowing O’Dowd to score again shortly thereafter.
Quarterback Christian Cermenelli-Johnson played a pivotal role, throwing for 116 yards and adding a rushing touchdown. Sophomore Bryan Edwards electrified the crowd with a 60-yard punt return touchdown, further cementing O’Dowd’s dominance in the game.
Edwards, who also caught a touchdown pass, attributed the team’s success to their hard work and strategic adjustments. “We know they’re going to scheme us, but we switch up our plays a little bit, give them different looks, and they can’t stop us. We’re too good,” he said.
With this victory, Bishop O’Dowd finishes the season with a record of 9-4 and looks ahead to the CIF NorCal regionals. Matchups will be announced soon, and the young team, filled with talent and potential, is ready to continue their championship journey.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Dragons aim for even greater success in the coming weeks!
