The Pomona Panthers are set to return to the championship stage, facing top-ranked Windsor in the Class 3A title game on Saturday, December 2, 2023. This matchup takes place at Canvas Stadium on the Colorado State University campus, with kickoff scheduled for 13:30. The Panthers, once a dominant force in Colorado high school football, are eager to reclaim their legacy after overcoming significant challenges in recent years.
The journey back to prominence has not been straightforward for Pomona. Coach Nate Johnson acknowledged the hurdles faced, particularly with declining enrollment impacting the football program. “It’s been a challenge for sure,” Johnson remarked earlier this week. The coach praised the resilience of the seniors who remained committed to the program despite numerous transfers. Their dedication has been crucial, as many of these players had to step up as freshmen, a move that is now paying dividends.
This season, the Panthers have achieved a commendable record of 12 wins and 1 loss, with their only defeat coming against Dakota Ridge, the top seed in the 4A championship. Key to their success has been junior quarterback Tucker Ingersoll, who has thrown for 1,800 yards and 26 touchdowns, while also rushing for 475 yards and seven touchdowns. “We run a spread offense,” Ingersoll explained. “Our O-line is the best in 3A, in my opinion. They can run the ball and throw at a high level.”
Building a New Legacy
The Panthers’ history includes a state title win in 2017, when they triumphed over Eaglecrest in a record-setting game. Prior to that, they were state finalists in 2015 and 2016, losing to Valor Christian on both occasions. However, the team faced a downturn, finishing with a combined 3-17 record in 2022 and 2023 in the 5A league. This led to a strategic move down to Class 3A, where they have re-emerged as contenders.
Senior running back Luis Santana has played a pivotal role in the team’s success, rushing for over 1,025 yards and eight touchdowns this season. Reflecting on his early days as a freshman, Santana noted the stark contrast in experience against larger schools. “Going against schools that are bigger than you can be difficult,” he admitted. Now, he leads a team that is focused on establishing its own identity. “We want to create our own legend,” Santana stated.
Senior Emmitt Munson, who describes himself as an “athlete,” has also made significant contributions. Munson has recorded 391 rushing yards, seven touchdowns, and 85 tackles as a linebacker. Having experienced the highs and lows of the program, he believes the team’s previous struggles have prepared them for the pressure of championship play. “We understand the pressure,” Munson said, drawing parallels to his success in wrestling, where he secured a 5A state title last season.
Game Day Preparations
As the championship game approaches, the Panthers are focused on executing their game plan against a formidable opponent in Windsor, who remains undefeated this season. The team has outscored their opponents 482 to 183, a testament to their offensive capabilities and tenacious defense.
With the prospect of adding a third state title to their name, the players are determined to make their mark. “We’re aware of the history, but we want to make a name for ourselves,” Santana reiterated. If successful, this victory would follow their previous championships in 1988 and 2017, solidifying Pomona’s position in Colorado high school football history.
As the final countdown to the championship game begins, the Pomona Panthers are ready to take on the challenge and potentially reclaim their status as a powerhouse in high school football.
