News Summary
In a thrilling matchup at the South County Classic 7-on-7 championship, Mission Viejo High School outperformed Mater Dei with a score of 35-23. Quarterback Luke Fahey excelled without his top receiver, throwing five touchdown passes to secure a perfect tournament record of 7-0. The team showcased depth and talent, including impressive performances from junior and sophomore players stepping up. Despite a competitive game, Fahey’s leadership and a strong defensive effort led the Diablos to triumph, highlighting their potential ahead of the upcoming high school football season.
Mission Viejo – Senior quarterback Luke Fahey led Mission Viejo High School to a 35-23 victory over Mater Dei in the South County Classic 7-on-7 championship, showcasing his skills despite the absence of his top receiver, Vance Spafford, who was ill. Fahey’s strong performance included five touchdown passes, allowing the Diablos to finish the tournament with an unbeaten record of 7-0.
Fahey’s touchdown distribution was impressive, with two touchdowns each going to Davonte Curtis and Jack Junker, while KJ Woodbury added one touchdown. Notably, Junker is a junior transfer from Santa Margarita, and Woodbury is a sophomore, indicating a promising future for the Diablos’ receiver corps. The team’s ability to adapt and thrive despite Spafford’s absence speaks to the depth and talent of the young players stepping up during the championship.
The game was competitive; at one point, Mater Dei led 23-21, with quarterback Ryan Hopkins connecting with tight end Mark Bowman for multiple touchdowns. However, the Diablos regrouped, ultimately turning the tide to secure their victory. The presence of a solid defensive performance, highlighted by key interceptions such as Jeron Jones’ crucial play against Mission Hills in the semifinals, also played a significant role in the team’s success throughout the tournament.
Mission Viejo advanced to the championship by defeating Schurr in the quarterfinals and Mission Hills in the semifinals, demonstrating their dominance across all phases of the game. The Diablos also excelled in the linemen competition and concluded the event on a high note by winning a tug-of-war against Murrieta Valley, showcasing their strength and teamwork.
Fahey received applause for his leadership skills, which he credited to the influence of former teammate Draiden Trudeau. This leadership was evident on the field as Fahey directed his team methodically, illustrating his growth as a quarterback during this offseason.
In addition to the championship win, Fahey recently concluded an official visit to Ohio State and has also visited Stanford and Indiana. Reports indicate positive feedback from coaching staff at these institutions, highlighting Fahey’s potential as he prepares for the upcoming college football recruiting season.
On the other side of the field, Mater Dei’s quarterback, Ryan Hopkins, had a notable tournament performance as well. In addition to his connection with Bowman, he threw touchdowns to running back Malachi Roby and wide receiver Gavin Honore, underscoring the competitive nature of the tournament.
This weekend marked a bustling day for high school football, as various tournaments occurred across the region, including events in St. John Bosco and Simi Valley. A standout moment from the weekend featured San Clemente clinching a championship against St. John Bosco with a last-minute touchdown pass from junior quarterback Eiler King.
In the preliminary rounds of the tournament, Santa Margarita withdrew, prompting Schurr to step in as a replacement. The series of events provided an exciting glimpse of the talent and potential that will be on display during the upcoming high school football season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Luke Fahey Leads Mission Viejo High to Championship Victory
Southern California High School Football Passing Tournaments Heat Up
California High School Football Recruitment Heats Up
Football Tournaments Showcase High School Talent
Vance Spafford Commits to University of Miami
Vance Spafford Commits to Miami, Flips from Georgia
Thirteen Orange County High School Football Players Commit to Colleges
Miami Hurricanes Recruit Four-Star Players Spafford and Jones
Four-Star Wide Receiver Vance Spafford Commits to Miami
Vance Spafford Flips Commitment to Miami Hurricanes
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Mission Viejo vs. Mater Dei
- Wikipedia: Mission Viejo
- The Daily Hoosier: Luke Fahey Profile
- Google Search: Luke Fahey
- Sports Illustrated: Mission Viejo’s 2025 Schedule
- Google Scholar: Mission Viejo High School Football
- 247Sports: Luke Fahey’s Recruitment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School Football
- Pro Football Network: Luke Fahey’s College Plans
- Google News: High School Football Tournaments
