Central West wins first game since 1995 in dominant fashion. ‘Back to the future’
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Central West returned to varsity football with a 39-12 win over Elite-Vallejo.
- Jeremiah Lee led rushing with 153 yards, while defense logged sacks and picks.
- Grizzlies will play at Koligian Stadium through 2026 due to field renovations.
At some point, Central West will have a stadium to call home. For now, opening the season at Koligian Stadium may be a familiar sight for some.
With the same result.
Jeremiah Lee rushed four times for 153 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Grizzlies to a 39-12 victory over Elite-Vallejo in a season opener for both teams.
It was Central West’s first game since 1995.
“First and foremost, I’m just proud of my guys,” said Central West coach Jeff Haynes, whose motto this season is “Back to the future.”
“They grinded all hard all summer. We overcame the obstacles that no one would have to start a new program, and we’re just trying to build on the future of being a Central Grizzlies.”
The rushing attack posed to be a problem for Elite as Andrew Sanchez and Juaquin Castro each had a touchdown.
Yet, it was Central West’s defense that was also a problem for Elite.
Drake Sellers had an interception for the Grizzlies and Rashond Lane had two sacks.
At least 40% of the players were on Central’s JV team that went 8-1 a year ago. The makeup of the Grizzlies includes many freshmen.
Andrew Sanchez never played quarterback until Thursday. He was normally a wide receiver for Central East JV in 2024.
Sanchez completed 7 of 12 for 57 yards and a touchdown.
“I try to step up for the team this year,” Sanchez said. “I feel like I’m learning leadership as I go and we just had a great night. I’m proud of my boys.”
Central West is likely going to play at Koligian Stadium for two more years since the stadium at Dickenson and McKinley avenues, at the original campus, is going through renovations, including adding turf.
The Grizzlies, playing as an independent this season, will have two more home games before finishing the season with three games on the road.
This story was originally published August 21, 2025 at 11:58 PM.
