On Aug. 29, the Bonita Vista Barons Varsity football team loses to the Chula Vista Spartans 20-14 at home in an intense match. Featuring the second home game of the year, fans filled up the bleachers as the Barons got ready to play. The game showcased standout performances on both sides of the field, with Bonita Vista making key plays that kept the Barons’ hype on the sidelines.
The Barons’ offense was lively from the start. As the first quarter commenced, the crowds of Bonita hollered loudly in hopes of a BVH win. Mirroring this energy, senior quarterback, Greyson Smith (10), connected on a touchdown pass to junior wide receiver Nathan Lindquist (14), starting the game off with a score of 6-0 for the Barons. Smith explained how important initiative is, especially during pivotal moments marked by interceptions, fumbles and penalties.
“We maintained composure throughout the game because we are a family,” Smith said. “If one of us messes up, we just pick each other up and keep moving forward.”
One of Smith’s most impactful plays came late in the third quarter on a 3rd-and-18, when he threw a successful pass for a touchdown to ignite the crowd, putting the Barons ahead once again. The energy lifted not only the players on the field, but also gave the Barons’ sideline a renewed sense of urgency. Smith explained how adjustments against Chula Vista’s defense helped the team gain momentum and keep the game within reach.
“We started throwing the ball more in the second half, which really worked because Chula Vista was able to stop the run pretty well,” Smith said.
On the defensive side, senior linebacker Aiden Cortes (4) made several key plays including a crucial tackle, resulting in a third down during the 4th quarter when the Barons were trying to hold Chula Vista at a tight score of 14-14. Cortes emphasized the importance of energy and positivity both on the field and on the sidelines.
“As a captain, it was really important to keep my energy up throughout the whole game,” Cortes said. “[The energy is important] not only on the field with my play, but also supporting my teammates on the sidelines, especially when we had no energy at the end of the half.”
Cortes also highlighted a moment that showcased teamwork and crowd influence. With the touchdowns made that evening, it became crucial to the team’s morale throughout the match to not only gain points on the board, but also to maintain the energy during times they needed it most.
“[With Smith] throwing a touchdown to [Lindquist along with other important plays in the game], it was super important for us to stay united. These were big play[s] emotionally and together we silenced [Chula Vista], [as well as] celebrated the moment as a team,” Cortes said.
However, the Baron’s resilience did not stop there, however, with senior defensive back Diego Mariscal contributing with key tackles, helping maintain the team’s focus during momentum swings. His efforts, alongside Cortes’, kept Chula Vista’s offense from pulling too far ahead and highlighted the Barons’ resilience. With the game tied in the fourth quarter, the Barons’ mentality had to stay strong.
“Our mentality in the fourth quarter was that we were playing for each other,” Smith said. “No matter what happens, we are a team and we are behind one another.”
Although the game ultimately ended with Chula Vista on top, Bonita Vista showcased determination and athleticism that will carry into their next matchup against University City. Players reflected on the lessons learned and what the team can improve in the coming weeks.
“The biggest thing is just to execute,” Cortes said. “We are going to pressure the quarterback, play our coverages and make sure we put the right personnel in to stop their backfield.”
The Barons left the field with heads held high, energized by the crowd’s support and the teamwork that defined their performance. As the season progresses, Bonita Vista’s players are determined to build on this experience, grow as a team and continue showcasing the grit that defines Barons football.
