The Bakersfield Christian High School football team won it's first state football championship, defeating the Rancho Cotate Cougars 42-21 on Saturday night. This was the football program's first-ever state title and the school's second overall. The school's girls volleyball team won a state championship in 2008.
The game got off to a rough start for BCHS as penalties and turnovers set the team back 14-7 at halftime. However, the Eagles' defense began to establish itself, shutting down the Cougars to start the second half, allowing the BCHS offense to find it's footing. A strong balance of running and passing allowed the Eagles to regain its footing and take control of the game.
This is the second time head coach Darren Carr's has played for a state championship. Back in 2016, the Eagles head coach led his team to a title game where they fell 31-7 to Campolindo High School.
"At this school with this great support we have and great kids. I know every coach says that but it really is a special place and I couldn't be more thrilled for our city and these kids," Carr said after the win.
While senior two-way star Ben Yurosek, who completed three touchdowns in the game, summed up the historic night with a huge smile.
"I'm on cloud nine right now. I can't even explain [it], all this work we have been putting in for nine, ten months. . .this is the gratification through it all, seeing your family and some of these guys not win any games last year, seeing the difference it makes, it's truly inspiring, I love these dudes," Yurosek said.
Him along with 16 other seniors will be remembered for bringing the school its first football state championship. The goal from the beginning.
"It took four years to do it and we finally did it, that's a dream come true, honestly," senior receiver and defensive back Chris Gutierrez said.
