BREAKING: Archbishop Riordan has just clinched their first West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL) championship since 2000, defeating Serra 42-35 in a thrilling showdown on November 10, 2023. The Crusaders, under the guidance of coach Adhir Ravipati, turned a rocky start into a triumphant finish, marking a significant milestone for the San Francisco school.
After falling behind 14-0 early in the game, Riordan appeared to be in trouble. Coach Ravipati described the match as a “title match,” emphasizing the need for resilience. “You’re gonna have to throw some jabs, some counterpunches,” he stated. But the Crusaders rallied, tying the game early in the second half and never looking back.
With just 3:15 left on the clock, running back Adonyae Brown delivered the decisive blow, sprinting for a 53-yard touchdown that sealed the victory and sent the Riordan fans into a frenzy. Quarterback Michael Mitchell Jr. led the charge with confidence, reflecting on the hard work that brought them to this point. “It feels great… when you know you’ve been working at something and you finally get it,” he said.
Riordan’s ascension has been impressive. Following a 3-7 record in 2022, they improved to 7-4 in 2023 and 7-5 in 2024. Now, they stand undefeated at 10-0, having avenged a previous 53-7 loss to Serra that knocked them out of championship contention two years ago.
Mitchell, reflecting on his past experiences, stated, “Last time I was on this field… I told myself, ‘Never again on this field will I feel like this.’” His determination fueled the team’s victory, illustrating the emotional weight of this win.
Brown, who played a crucial role in the game, demonstrated extraordinary resilience as he pushed through cramps to contribute significantly. He scored three touchdowns, including the pivotal final score that solidified the championship win. “I just fought through it the whole entire time,” Brown said. “My team needs me, and I know I need my team.”
This championship not only marks a historic achievement for Archbishop Riordan but also highlights the team’s growth and determination over the past few years. As they celebrate their victory, the Crusaders have set a new standard for the program, and fans are left eager for what lies ahead.
Stay tuned for more updates as the team revels in their well-deserved victory and begins preparations for the upcoming challenges.
