PLEASANT HILL — November 28, 2025
Cardinal Newman delivered a fearless start in Friday night's North Coast Section Division 1 Championship at Diablo Valley College, taking an early lead against one of California's premier public-school powers. But the three-time defending champion Pittsburg Pirates responded with a surge that proved too much to overcome, handing the Cardinals a 42–17 defeat and ending Newman's outstanding 11-2 season.
The Cardinals came into the night banged up with several key players ruled out or questionable. Depth would become a major issue as the game wore on and Newman began to wear down.
Newman Strikes First
The Cardinals opened the game with confidence, marching inside the Pittsburg 5-yard line on the night's opening possession. Brody Estrela reeled of a long run for first down and then on 4th and 16, Cash Boyd threw a perfect screen pass to Matai Fa'agata who carried the ball to the 7 yard line for a first and goal. Then the Pirates held firm in the red zone keeping Newman from scoring a touchdown, Newman settled for a field goal by Devin Taylor to secure an early 3–0 lead — immediately sending a message that they were not intimidated by the defending champs.
A David vs. Goliath Matchup
The championship stage highlighted one of the biggest enrollment disparities in the entire state playoffs:
- Pittsburg High School — over 3,000 students and the three-time defending Division I champion
- Cardinal Newman — fewer than 600 students, classified by enrollment as a Division 6 program
Despite the gap, Newman embraced the challenge and refused to back down, competing with grit against a roster boasting depth, size, and Division I college-level athletes.
Pittsburg's Firepower Takes Over
After Newman's opening scoring drive, Pittsburg found its stride. The Pirates' offense — one of the most explosive in California — struck for 6 points in the first quarter, 14 more in the second, and broke the game open with a 22-point third quarter.
Sophomore quarterback Javale Jones showcased why he is considered one of the region's top young playmakers, throwing for 233 yards and three touchdowns in the first half, while rushing for a career-best 42 yards. Wide receiver Ramire Lewis added 88 receiving yards, continually stretching the Cardinal secondary.
Senior Leaders Shine in Final Game
Even under heavy pressure, Cardinal Newman's senior core stepped up — as they have all season.
- Brody Estrela produced 109 total yards, grinding out key plays throughout the night and leading the team in tackles on defense
- Jonah Bertoli turned in one of his best performances of the year, finishing with 74 receiving yards and a touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Their toughness, competitiveness, and leadership were emblematic of a senior class that helped lift Newman back to championship prominence.
A Remarkable Season Comes to a Close
The setback ends Cardinal Newman's season at 11–2, snapping an 11-game winning streak that showcased one of the school's most balanced and resilient teams in recent memory.
Last 5 Games
- vs Pittsburg — L 17–42
- vs Acalanes — W 52–17
- vs San Marin — W 21–14
- vs Vintage — W 56–0
- vs Marin Catholic — W 45–13
Despite the final score, Cardinal Newman proved once again that its culture, preparation, and belief can carry a small-school roster into the biggest moments of high-school football.
The Cardinals' coaching staff praised the group's commitment and unity — and with a strong core returning next season, Newman expects to be right back in the championship conversation.
