The Pomona Panthers are set to compete in the Class 3A state championship game, marking a significant comeback for the once-dominant football program. After facing challenges that included declining enrollment and a tough few seasons, the Panthers will face off against the top-ranked Windsor team on Saturday, with kickoff scheduled for 13:30 at Canvas Stadium on the Colorado State University campus.
Coach Nate Johnson expressed pride in his team’s resilience. “It’s been a challenge for sure,” he stated, reflecting on the hurdles faced in recent years. “A lot of kids transferred, but I give a lot of credit to those seniors who stuck it out. A lot of them had to play a ton as freshmen, but it’s paid off.” This determination has led the Panthers to a remarkable turnaround, giving them the chance to reclaim state glory.
The Panthers, who previously won the state title in 2017, are eager to add another trophy to their accolades. In that championship game, they triumphed over Eaglecrest in a thrilling contest, finishing with a score of 56-49. Despite being state finalists in 2015 and 2016, the team faced setbacks and a combined record of 3-17 over the last two seasons before dropping down from Class 5A and re-emerging as a formidable contender.
A central figure in this season’s success is Luis Santana, a senior running back who has transformed from a small freshman into a standout athlete. Weighing in at 170 pounds, Santana has rushed for 1,025 yards, averaging 7.1 yards per carry, and scored eight touchdowns this season. Reflecting on the team’s evolution, he remarked, “Ever since the beginning, when I was a freshman, I saw how much talent this team had. I knew what we had on the table.”
Another key player, senior Emmitt Munson, describes himself as an “athlete” on the field, contributing significantly both offensively and defensively. He has tallied 391 rushing yards, 44 receiving yards, and made 85 tackles as a linebacker. Munson is no stranger to high-pressure situations, having won a state wrestling title last season. He believes that the wrestling program has fortified the football team’s foundation, stating, “We have lived those big moments. We understand the pressure.”
The Panthers have demonstrated their offensive prowess this season, outscoring opponents 482-183. Leading the charge is junior quarterback Tucker Ingersoll, who has thrown for 1,800 yards and 26 touchdowns, while also adding 475 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Ingersoll attributes the team’s success to their explosive spread offense, emphasizing the strength of the offensive line.
With a chance to secure their third state championship—previously winning titles in 1988 and 2017—the Panthers are focused on making their mark in history. Santana expressed their ambition: “We want to create our own legend.” As they prepare for the championship clash against Windsor, the Pomona Panthers are poised to showcase their talent and determination on a grand stage.
