By: Samantha Reed and Allurabella Chandler
Poly’s football season this year shows immense promise with a stunning victory in their first varsity home game.
Riverside Poly’s varsity football team made their presence known in the Villa on August 29th, opening their first home game of the season with a commanding 55 – 13 victory over John W. North High School. The game was not just about the score, but about energy, unity, and momentum for what the Bears hope will be a standout 2025 season. Under the bright Friday night lights, the stands were packed, the crowd roared, and the atmosphere made the night feel bigger than just football. The team fed off the positive energy, school spirit and Love Island inspired theme, making Riverside City College’s turf not just a place to hold home games, but truly Poly’s home field.
The crowd cheered and cried in their Hawaiian gear every time a play was made. The first home game really set the mood for the rest of the season when the bears had many fantastic players showcased throughout the night. The cheer squad running around the corner to perform lifts and tricks every time the Bears scored a touchdown was one of the highlights of the game.
When interviewing some of the Varsity Football players, Quarterback junior Marjok Gustafson described the preparation that went into the win. “All week all the coaches told us to lock in to prepare for a great game” and that “we had to bring our ‘A’ game to win it.” Gustafson also went into detail and explained how in practice they studied John W. North on film, saying, “They blitz a lot so we had to adjust by getting the ball out quickly and giving it to the play makers.” In other words, North’s defense tends to send extra players to rush the quarterback, not only adding more pressure but also forcing whoever is quarterback to be faster and rely on their teammates to make plays once they have the ball.
Gustafson also spoke about his personal goals for the game. “A goal that I set for myself was to win and throw a couple touchdowns,” he added “I completed both.”
Senior Terrick Butts, playing corner, had a beautiful interception halfway through the game ending the play in a touchdown. Even though the bears had already been winning by many points, this play was just what the team needed to really hype themselves and each other up. Terrick admits that after his pick six, his teammates and coaches especially were ecstatic for him, congratulating him and saying “good job, we’re proud of you!” When asking Terrick if this play was the result of how hard they had been working for the past few weeks, he stated “yes of course, we love turnovers, and we love touchdowns.” Terrick showed extreme determination during this short play and throughout this exciting game. It is certain that Terrick earned people’s respect during this game.
Safety senior Michael Gaines Jr. recalled the moment he scored a touchdown that brought the crowd to its feet. “Just focussed on my job and executed it to the best of my ability,” he said. “At first I was going to run out of bounds but once I juked the two kids in front of me I just saw nothing but green grass and the end zone.” The celebration was equally unforgettable. “All I can say is it felt amazing,” Gaines said. For him, the mindset was simple, “the goal is always to score if they kick the ball to me.” He added that “all my coaches and teammates were filled with excitement once I got back to the sideline.”
With a 55 – 13 victory, the Bears dominated their opening home game. Riverside Poly’s varsity football team showed that with preparation, trust, and teamwork, something special can be created. Quarterback Marjock Gustafson emphasized the importance of trust and execution. Corner Terrick Butts led by example showing everyone just how well hard work pays off, while safety Michael Gaines Jr. showed how one play can spark joy throughout the entire team. Together, through the efforts of the entire team reflect a program built on unity, discipline and pride. Come support the Bears as they continue to bring it all to the field.