On Friday, August 29, 2025, the Heritage Christian Warriors football team dominated the El Camino Real Royals with a 26–0 shutout victory.
The Warriors established the tone on both sides of the ball from the first whistle. On the first drive, senior quarterback Ari Sykes led the offense downfield before finishing it with an eight-yard touchdown pass to sophomore wide receiver Eli Simmons. Heritage Christian had an early lead that they refused to give up.
The Warriors played unrelenting defense. The unit forced five fumbles, recovering four, and smothered El Camino Real’s attempts to build momentum. Heritage’s linebackers and secondary made plays all night long, while the Royals only managed 202 total yards.
Early in the second half, sophomore playmaker Donovan Booker electrified the crowd with a punt return touchdown, one of the game’s most memorable moments. Booker proved to be a spark on offense and special teams, finishing with 129 yards.
“Playing under the new lights is truly a blessing from God; everything God has done for us we show and represent on the football field. We hope to keep this winning streak up and continue this into league play,” says Booker.
Jordan Schiffner, a senior running back, ran for 100 yards on 14 carries and offered balance with a strong attack. Late in the fourth quarter, Sykes added 62 rushing yards and punched in a one-yard touchdown run, demonstrating his dual-threat ability. Another highlight of the Warriors’ victory came when he connected with senior tight end Nicholas Boldt on a 20-yard touchdown pass.
With just one first down allowed in the last quarter, Heritage Christian’s defense sealed the victory.
El Camino Real fell to a 1-1 record with the win, while Heritage Christian improved to a 2-0 record. Next week, when they host Centennial, the Warriors will try to remain undefeated, while the Royals will try to recover against the Grace Lancers.
Mali, You’ve now added “journalist” to your list of many talents. Everything that you put your hands on and mind to are (and will continue to be) blessed! I’m so proud of you. Go Warriors!