Football

GAME RECAP AND TOP PHOTOS: The South Wins their 12th Consecutive All Star Game on a 4th Quarter Game Winner

by
jpwestmedia
February 1, 2025

GAME PHOTOS by Jeremy Westerbeck: Click here

GAME PHOTOS by Richard Do (@rdvisualss): Click here

By Isabella Lyons

COSTA MESA, CA- The OC All-Star Classic took place on February 1, 2025, at Orange Coast College, featuring some of the top-performing high school football players in Orange County. The South team was led by Coach Marcello Giuliano of Beckman High School, while the North was coached by Zack LaMonda of El Dorado High School.

The game started with the North moving the ball well, securing a few first downs. However, their drive stalled, and they turned the ball over to the South without scoring.

After a handoff from Acosta to Maiava, the South quickly picked up a first down, followed by another from Acosta to Max Kotiranta. This set up a quarterback keeper, where Acosta ran the ball into the end zone for the first score of the game, giving the South a 7-0 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Going into the second quarter, the North put together a strong drive with multiple first downs. Nate Lewis connected with Shane Cassidy for another key first down before keeping the ball himself and finding the end zone to tie the game 7-7.

The South attempted to answer before halftime, with Noah Czaykowski picking up a first down. However, with time running out, Lewis’ touchdown remained the only score of the second quarter, sending the teams into halftime tied 7-7.

The third quarter began with the South on offense, but after a quick turnover, the North regained possession. Both teams struggled to put points on the board, and the South got the ball back with seven minutes remaining in the quarter. Despite some promising plays, neither side managed to score, and the game remained tied heading into the fourth quarter.

The final quarter started slowly, but with four minutes left, Acosta connected with Campbell Schamel for a clutch touchdown, putting the South ahead. The North was unable to respond, and the South secured the victory, claiming the OC All-Star Classic title.

Top Photos by Jeremy Westerbeck