Every day they’re hustling — Grizzlies top Central Valley

The reigning flag football Southern League champs hosted the Central Valley Hawks during their first home game of the season at Mariposa County High School on Sept. 4.

Even with all of the rule changes this season, the varsity team came out and looked like the experienced team they are, winning 22-14.

Juniper Helling got into the end zone after catching a pass from Celina Heard.

Marley Gediman got the extra point, giving the Grizzlies the lead of 7-0 toward the end of the first quarter.

Helling scored again in the second quarter followed by a two-point conversion from freshman Alicia Garcia.

MCHS held the lead 15-0 at halftime.

During the third quarter, Helling scored her third touchdown of the night along with the extra point.

The Grizzlies were ahead 22-0 when the third quarter concluded.

Central Valley was able to rally during the fourth quarter with two touchdowns.

But MCHS maintained their lead and took the win 22-14.

“The game is so much different than it was last year,” said coach Bob Jaekle.

“It took us a little while to figure some things out but they’re picking it up and they’re playing hard.”

Central Valley took the win over JV 12-6.

“The season has been really good so far,” said JV coach Joe Lewis.

“We’ve got six girls who have never played before and I’m seeing a lot of development.”

The Hawks opened scoring in the first but the Grizzlies responded in the second quarter with a touchdown from Allie Sanders.

“She had a great week and scored all of our touchdowns these last three games,” said Lewis.

“She’s our team captain who was chosen because of her leadership and positivity.”

The game was tied going into halftime.

Central Valley scored their second touchdown on a pick six during the third quarter, which ultimately won them the game with a final score of 12-6.

“I’m really impressed with them,” said Lewis.

“They go out there, they play hard and they don’t complain.”

The Grizzlies traveled to Livingston on Sept. 6 for some tournament action.

MCHS started out the weekend with a 7-0 win against Ripon followed by a season high win over Gustine 64-6.

The Grizzlies lost their final game of the weekend in overtime against Torres. The final score was 19-12.

The team was right back at it on Monday, Sept. 8 when they faced Torres again, this time at MCHS.

Results were not available at press time.

Next up, the Grizzlies will take the field against Buhach Colony at MCHS on Sept. 11.

JV plays at 5 p.m. followed by varsity at 6.