Isaac Cordova (l) and Elijah Washington (r) By BRIAN REED-BAIOTTO, Sports Editor It seems like it was just yesterday that Isaac Cordova, Elijah Washington and their teammates walked onto Friedman Field on December 1, 2017. The Golden Knights had earned their first spot in the CIF-SS Division 3 championship game since 1964. And while Rancho […]
Isaac Cordova (l) and Elijah Washington (r)
By BRIAN REED-BAIOTTO, Sports Editor
It seems like it was just yesterday that Isaac Cordova, Elijah Washington and their teammates walked onto Friedman Field on December 1, 2017.
The Golden Knights had earned their first spot in the CIF-SS Division 3 championship game since 1964.
And while Rancho Verde left as champions in the most cruel of ways, the St. Francis coaches and players eventually got over the disappointment and focused on what was truly an historic season, which included 12 wins.
It was very much due to a core of talented and devoted seniors that have as much character as they do physical skills.
Washington was the running back and linebacker and Cordova played receiver, defensive back and was arguably the Golden Knights’ best blocker.
After the season ended, they pondered where they’d get the chance to continue their ascendance at the collegiate level.
Cordova ended up at a school he’s always wanted to attend, and he also competes for the Occidental football program.
Washington is at the University of La Verne and seems to be fitting in nicely.
But it must have seemed a little odd, at least at first glance, to see your brother in a different colored uniform.
After a couple glances, both players were focused and yet happy for each other that they both got a chance to extend their football careers at least four more years.
Washington rushed for 25 yards on 3 carries and had a long of 17 yards.
E-Dub and the Leopards left the field happy after their 24-14 SCIAC victory over the visitors from Occidental.
Although Cordova is only focused on helping his team win and not individual glory, he was able to put a little ink in what will be an impressive resume in four years.
Cordova got his first collegiate TD when Joshua Greaves hit the freshman on a 10-yard score with 3:55 to play in the game.
Neither La Verne or Occidental are satisfied with the results in 2018, but with guys like Washington and Cordova, a pair of young men with discipline and substance, the program will almost certainly take a turn for the better, and do so sooner rather than later.
Box Score:
Occidental: 7-0-0-7-(14)
La Verne: 7-3-0-14-(24)
Records: Occidental (0-6); La Verne (2-5)
