The Amador Valley Dons football team etched their name into school history this past week by clinching their first-ever North Coast Section (NCS) Division II Football Championship with a commanding 42-18 victory over Bishop O’Dowd.
“This season was about trusting the process, pounding the rock, having a great offseason, and stacking that with a really good summer. Scheduling tough teams early in the season prepared us for these kinds of battles going into the playoffs,” said Varsity Football Coach Danny Jones.
A Historic First
The Dons’ maiden NCS title has electrified the Amador Valley community. Fans, students, and families flocked to Dublin High School to witness the historic moment, filling the stands with unrelenting energy as the team delivered a stellar performance.
“The best memory so far has been winning an NCS championship for the first time since Amador has been [established]. It feels great! We’ve been able to do something that no other team has been able to do,” said Villamu Baker Kin (‘25).
Keys to Success
The team’s success stems from its unique combination of cohesion, discipline, and dedication. Early-season losses served as fuel, driving the team to improve and build a stronger bond.
“We had a lot of guys in the weight room and in the thousand-pound clubs. We also just have a great quarterback. Everybody’s really in tune with each other, and we just play for each other,” said Baker Kin.
Coach Jones emphasized leadership as a driving force behind the team’s historic season. He also credited standout performances, including that of quarterback Tristan Tia (‘25), for their success.
“Leadership [is important] because I think that’s what made the biggest leap for us, from early in the season to later in the season. You can also look [at] some individual players that make us special. Tristan Tia is a very special player,” said Jones.
Tia was instrumental in the NCS Championship game, contributing both in the air and on the ground. He threw two touchdown passes to wide receiver Ben Stout (‘25) and added a rushing touchdown of his own. Stout, a standout on both offense and defense, has been a key contributor all season. The team’s rushing attack was also dominant, amassing a total of 277 yards.
“Anytime you have leadership mixed with some special players, it’s a good formula to win,” said Jones.
The Dons’ defense also made game-changing plays, including linebacker Gabe Gyamfi’s (‘25) thrilling 85-yard pick-six in the second half, which electrified the crowd and sealed the victory.
“We’re a real family now, you know?” said Jason Larson (‘26), emphasizing the team’s unity and camaraderie.
Looking Ahead
As the Dons prepare for the CIF State Championship, the excitement across Amador Valley is palpable. Students, teachers, and staff are rallying behind the team, eager to witness another chapter of this unforgettable season.
Congratulations to the Dons on their historic NCS title, and good luck in the State Championship!
