On Friday, October 23, the Fillmore Flashes traveled to Santa Barbara to face Dos Pueblos, securing a decisive 14–0 victory and claiming the Tri-County League Championship. With a 7–2 record, the Flashes now turn their attention to longtime rival Santa Paula as they prepare for Friday’s matchup. Above and below are action photos from the Varsity game against Dos Pueblos. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
On Friday, October 23, the Flashes clinched the Tri-County League title with a victory over Dos Pueblos High School. Above, a Flashes player carries the ball downfield, looking to evade the defense with help from a teammate. This week, the Flashes will face their longtime rival, Santa Paula, at home. JV kickoff is at 4 p.m., followed by Varsity at 7 p.m. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
By FHS Head Football Coach Charlie Weis, M. Ed.
FILLMORE — The Fillmore Flashes are Tri-County League champions for the first time.
In a tough, physical battle that decided the league crown, Fillmore shut out the Dos Pueblos Chargers 14-0 on Friday, Oct. 23. A defense that has become the identity of this team did it again, posting its second straight shutout against a league opponent.
Defense Slams the Door
The turning point came just before halftime. With Dos Pueblos knocking on the door, the Flashes defense put together a tremendous goal line stand to end the first half, sending the Chargers to the locker room with nothing to show for the drive.
The Flashes secondary then closed things out in the fourth quarter. Juniors James Magana and Jayce Burboa each came up with key interceptions, ending any hope of a Dos Pueblos comeback and sealing the shutout.
Seniors Supply the Points
On offense, Fillmore leaned on its seniors. Running back Micah Harm carried the load on the ground, piling up more than 120 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Quarterback Nate Perez and wide receiver Saul Fraga-Sandoval provided the rest of the scoring, connecting once again for a touchdown through the air. In a game this close, those 14 points were all the Flashes needed.
A Program on the Rise
The Tri-County title is the third league championship for Flashes football in the last five seasons, earned across two different leagues. Fillmore won back-to-back Citrus Coast League titles in 2022 and 2023 before moving up into the Tri-County League.
The win also locks up the Flashes’ fifth playoff appearance in the last six seasons. In addition, it solidifies the 5th season where Fillmore has 7 or more wins in the last 6 years.
Up Next: The Route 126 Rivalry
With the league title secured, Fillmore turns its attention to longtime foe Santa Paula. The Bolts and the Birds meet this Friday, Oct. 30, for the 116th time in one of Southern California’s oldest rivalries.
The Flashes will be looking for their fifth win over the Cardinals in the last six seasons. A victory would also give Fillmore its eighth regular season win before the CIF Southern Section Championship Playoffs begin.
Come join the fun at Flashes Stadium if you’ve got a ticket. JV kicks off at 4 p.m., with Varsity to follow at 7 p.m.
