Fillmore Flashes defeated longtime rival Santa Paula in the 115th meeting of the two towns. This year’s game took place at Ventura High School. The Flashes took to the field ready for battle, winning 45-8. Above is the coaching staff with the infamous leather helmet which is passed to the winning to team to hold until next season’s meeting. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
On Thursday, October 30th, Flashes JV defeated Santa Paula, 28-0 for the 115th meeting of the teams. Above is from the Flashes JV game with the Flashes taking down a Santa Paula player to keep him from advancing. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
Flashes JV game. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
Fillmore Flashes and Santa Paula Cheerleaders Halftime Show. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
Varsity game. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
By FHS Head Football Coach Charlie Weis, M. Ed.
The Fillmore Flashes lit up Larabee Stadium last Thursday night with a commanding 45–8 victory over their long-time rivals, the Santa Paula Cardinals, in front of one of the largest crowds in rivalry history. The 115th meeting between the two schools wasn’t just another game—it was a defining statement in the storied Battle for the Leather Helmet, as the Flashes dominated in all phases and brought the trophy home to Fillmore.
From the opening kickoff, Fillmore’s defense set the tone with relentless intensity, overwhelming Santa Paula’s offense with six sacks and stifling their attack at every turn. The Cardinals struggled to find rhythm or space, facing a defensive wall anchored by the leadership and energy of team captains Marcus Lechuga, Carlos Cabral, and Mauricio Ocegueda. Their guidance and dedication all season long were on full display—commanding the huddle, rallying teammates, and setting the standard for championship-level football.
On offense, the Flashes were equally dominant, rolling to over 250 rushing yards behind the powerhouse Offensive Line that cemented their spot as the #1 rushing attack in the county anchored by Senior captain Genaro Villela. Senior running back Jasiah Patterson led the charge with 141 yards and a touchdown, punishing defenders and showcasing the balance and confidence that have become hallmarks of this year’s squad. Seniors Carlos Cabral and Angel Rodriguez added their own rushing touchdowns to the mix while Junior Saul Fraga displayed his versatility scoring both on the ground and in the air on a beautiful back shoulder fade from fellow junior quarterback Nate Perez.
The night’s most electric moment came in the third quarter, when senior newcomer Brenden Banks-Speed sent the Fillmore crowd into a frenzy with a jaw-dropping 94-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, effectively sealing the game and etching his name into rivalry history.
With the resounding victory, Fillmore has now won four of the last five matchups against Santa Paula and capped off a historic 9–1 regular season—the program’s best record since 1989. Head Coach Charlie Weis praised his team’s effort, noting, “This win is a reflection of our captains’ leadership, our players’ and coaches hard work, and the pride that runs deep in this community.”
Now, the focus shifts to the postseason as the Flashes host Cerritos High School in the first round of the CIF Playoffs this Friday, November 7th at 7:00 PM at Flashes Stadium. This marks the fourth playoff appearance in the last five seasons, continuing the program’s era of consistency and excellence.
The Fillmore community is being called on to pack the stands in Flashes Blue and create a true hometown, home-field advantage. Every cheer, every chant, and every fan matters as the Flashes take the next step in their championship pursuit.
Bring your pride, your energy, and your voice—because Fillmore football is on fire, and we need you to help fan the flames.
Go Flashes!
