From starry Friday Night Light crowds, the grand music and performances of the marching band, intense volleyball rallies, to the final whistle of water polo matches, San Dimas High’s fall sports season was packed with moments that defined teamwork, resilience, and school spirit.
The energy on the football field set the tone for the season. Led by captain and star quarterback Brandon Meredith, the team battled through both thrilling victories and challenging losses. “Throughout the season we have built so much chemistry together as a team. This allowed us to get to where we are in CIF and fight through any adversity,” Meredith explained. That bond showed up most when it mattered, keeping them in the fight for CIF. “We all really do want to win. Even if it seems as if there is no possible way at all,” he said. “We’ve shown this with our win over Rowland. We were down 22 – 0 at halftime. Our defense shut them out the rest of the game and allowed our offense to score, resulting in our 24 – 22 comeback win,” Meredith added, reflecting on their underdog triumph. “We all love playing together, we all view each other as brothers and will fight for any extra game with each other.” With Meredith’s trust and commitment to his teammates, the football team continues to put forth their best effort as the push for CIF moves forward.
In the pool, boys’ water polo captain Anthony Corona reflected on a season that demanded resilience from the start. He began by expressing just how far the team had come. “As far as the season goes, I’m really proud of what my team was able to accomplish,” he said. With most of the roster made up of newly pulled-up JV players, the group had to rebuild from the ground up after graduating their entire senior class. Corona didn’t shy away from acknowledging how challenging that transition was. “Most of them were new JV kids who had just been pulled up. We graduated our entire senior class and our bench last year, so it was a rough season,” he explained. Despite the steep learning curve, the team found a rhythm and, more importantly, a bond. “The guys were able to pull through and it was really fun competing with them. We grew into a family,” he shared. What impressed Corona most was their continuous effort and determination. “I’m just overall really proud of them because they stuck through the season.” Corona expressed how they were a “very resilient group, and honestly, [he] couldn’t ask for more.”
On the court, the girls’ volleyball team, who proudly finished their season as league champions, showcased their strength and unity throughout every match. Captain Jayden Hanson spoke about the energy and bond her team shared during their successful run. “There was a lot of dedication and determination that was displayed within our team,” Jayden said. “Personally, I felt like each one of the girls, whether on the bench or on the court, really wanted to win and play at their best level.” She added, “CIF first round was definitely a hard loss, especially after the fact that it was my last time playing as a Saint, but I wouldn’t choose any other group of girls to end my San Dimas Volleyball career with.”
Of course, no San Dimas event would be complete without the powerful sound of the marching band, led by standout performer Stephen. Reflecting on the group’s progress, Stephen spoke proudly about how far the band has come. “The marching band is the best we’ve ever been,” he said. A longer season, lengthened by weather delays, has given the band extra time to refine their show. “Our season has been extended due to the rain, so we have more time to really clean and rep our show and make it the best we can,” Stephen explained. Their hard work has already paid off, with the group continuing a streak of impressive achievements. “We’ve been breaking records consistently every year, and it’s likely we will make it to state champs again this year.” For Stephen, though, this season means even more on a personal level. “This season is special for me because I play the main character for our show as the Joker,” he shared. Still, he emphasized that the best part has been the shared effort behind the scenes: “We’ve all been working hard and making great memories both at practice and at competitions.” The band’s dedication, creativity, and momentum have clearly set the stage for another unforgettable season.
As the season comes to a close, the memories made on the field, in the pool, on the court, and under the stadium lights will continue to echo through San Dimas High. Whether in victory or defeat, the heart of the Saints remains the same – built on dedication, unity, and pride.
