Pittsburg Dominates Cardinal Newman to Secure Fifth Straight Title

In a commanding display of athleticism and strategy, the Pittsburg Pirates triumphed over Cardinal Newman 42-17 in the North Coast Section Division I championship held at Diablo Valley College on November 28, 2025. This victory marks the fifth consecutive title for the Pirates, solidifying their dominance in high school football.

The atmosphere at the stadium shifted dramatically as the game progressed, with the Pittsburg sideline filled with laughter and celebration while the field appeared to bear the marks of a significant contest. Coach Charlie Ramirez raised the championship plaque high, greeted by a deluge of lime Gatorade from his players, encapsulating the jubilant spirit of the evening.

Pittsburg established control from the outset, dictating the pace and flow of the game. After deferring the kickoff, Cardinal Newman capitalized early with a 12-play drive that culminated in a 20-yard field goal by junior kicker Devon Taylor. Unfortunately for the Cardinals, this would prove to be their only lead of the night.

The Pirates swiftly responded, with quarterback Javale Jones connecting with wide receiver Ramire Lewis for a 37-yard touchdown, igniting the Pittsburg offense. Jones demonstrated his prowess throughout the first half, completing 18 of 31 passes for 255 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception.

Pittsburg continued to build momentum, with sophomore Kenneth Ward showcasing his speed with a 22-yard touchdown catch just before halftime, extending the lead to 17 points. The Cardinals struggled to regain their footing, managing only 92 yards of total offense after their initial scoring drive.

The second half saw senior quarterback Carlos Torres take the reins for Pittsburg, leading a nine-play, 80-yard drive that ended in a touchdown pass to King Wade. Torres completed eight of ten passes for 175 yards and three touchdowns, all achieved in a single quarter. As Pittsburg’s lead ballooned to an insurmountable 39 points, the game transitioned to a running clock.

Despite a late surge from Cardinal Newman, who managed to score twice in the final quarter, the damage was already done. The Pirates’ defense had stifled the Cardinals, who were missing key players due to injury, including starting quarterback Tino Retamoza and defensive lineman King Pitts.

The victory not only marks another championship for Pittsburg but also highlights the resilience and grit of a program that Ramirez credits to its blue-collar roots. “It’s that grit and determination that defines us,” he said. “This is what we’ve been preaching for the last ten plus years.”

For the senior leaders, including RJ Mosley and Truly Bell, this title signifies their fourth consecutive NCS Division I championship, a remarkable achievement for a team that faced significant turnover from the previous season.

As Pittsburg celebrates this latest victory, the Pirates are now poised to set their sights on the state playoffs, aiming to extend their legacy in high school football.