The Gryphon Gazette

Above: Junior Wide Receiver Rohan D. ’25 makes a catch over a Harker defender to score a touchdown. | Credit: Harker Aquila

By Alex M. ‘27

The Crystal football team continued their undefeated streak on October 7th with a dominant 52-30 victory over Harker School. The Gryphons have had an exceptional start to the season, outscoring their opponents 236-66. Seniors Jack E. and Foster W. were two players who had remarkable performances. Jack E. had 17 rushing attempts for 158 yards and 3 touchdowns as well as 2 two-point conversions and an interception returned for a touchdown. Foster W. had 11 QB hurries and an outstanding rush where he dodged and broke multiple tackles for possibly the best play of the season so far. Senior Vishal G. also had a great game with 13 tackles and a forced fumble and recovery. Junior Rohan D. caught fire early, causing the Harker defense to aim their manpower at him. Senior Jack O. and freshman Ethan F. were able to exploit this double team and connect for 2 touchdowns. Furthermore, Jack O.’s leadership, quick decision-making, and accurate throws and handoffs were critical to the strategy for the Gryphon success.

Not only have the Gryphons shined on offense and defense, but they have also demonstrated superiority on special teams. This includes junior Brighton R., an extraordinary kicker who consistently gets touchbacks, and Rohan, a superb kick and punt returner who used his agility to juke defenders and score multiple touchdowns. In this game, due to the multiple injuries, many players were forced to play both offense and defense, including Vishal and Angel P. ‘24, who played every snap, as well as Ethan, Foster, and Jack E. All of these players showed toughness and durability in the longest game of the season, which lasted 3 hours and 45 minutes. The recent victory truly displayed the resilience and depth of the team as many impactful players were unable to play, including Anders B. ‘24, Anderson W. ‘25, Austin M. ‘24, and Alex M. ‘27, due to injuries. Rohan stated, “I think this could represent one of the most important wins that we have had this season. What we showed was that we can find ways to win as a team, even in the face of extreme adversity. Harker is a talented, well-coached team, so to come out with the win on their Homecoming was an amazing event I don’t think we will ever forget.” 

Overall, the Gryphons could not have had a better start to the season and are striving to win the Pacific Coast (8 Man) League for the first time in school history. If you would like to cheer for your Gryphons, our next home games are Saturday, October 20th at 11:00 a.m. against Pinewood and Thursday, October 26th at 3:30 p.m. against Woodside Priory. Pinewood and Priory are significant teams in the league and Crystal’s rivals; these games will likely decide the league’s winner, so be sure to show up and cheer on your Gryphons!