St. Francis Wins First CCS Division I Flag Football Title

UPDATE: In a thrilling upset, the St. Francis Lancers have secured their first-ever Central Coast Section Division I flag football championship, defeating the top-seeded Branham Bruins 13-6 on November 8, 2025, at Santa Clara High School. This victory marks a remarkable comeback after starting their season 0-2.

The Lancers, who fought through an intense playoff journey, showcased their grit and determination, culminating in a nail-biting win that included a 13-12 semifinal victory over Aragon and a commanding 32-18 quarterfinal win against Santa Clara. As the No. 3 seed, St. Francis knocked off the 15-9-1 Bruins, thanks to a tenacious defense that made a game-winning stand in the closing moments.

With the clock winding down, Kaelin O’Shea made a pivotal play, batting down Sydney Short’s fourth-down pass in plus territory, allowing the Lancers to run out the clock and secure the championship. “The key was really communication throughout,” O’Shea stated. “Our rushers were insane today. They just wanted it.”

Offensively, St. Francis shone as Zoe Tripp connected with Sofi Houston and Brooke Bennett for touchdown passes, with Bennett’s critical fourth-down, 4-yard reception sealing the victory in the fourth quarter. O’Shea’s defensive prowess was instrumental, as he made key flag pulls leading up to the championship win.

“This is what it’s all about,” said St. Francis coach Sean Smith after the win. “Everything is earned, not given. This whole season was a fight.”

Smith, an alumnus of St. Francis tackle football from the class of 2017, took over the flag football program last season, leading them to a 12-9 record, but faced a disappointing absence of postseason play in 2024. This year, the Lancers seized their opportunity, with O’Shea reflecting on their underdog journey: “We were underestimated. That alone gave us an underdog mentality that we were able to pull through.”

In other championship action at Santa Clara High, No. 3 Priory triumphed over top-seeded Presentation 21-20, with Shay Johnson’s interception clinching the victory with just 49.6 seconds left on the clock. Priory concludes the season with an 11-4 record, while Presentation finishes at 20-6.

Meanwhile, in the CCS Division II championship held at San Mateo High, second-seeded San Mateo defeated Burlingame 7-6, wrapping up their championship season with a record of 12-4.

This historic win for St. Francis not only highlights their resilience but also sets a precedent for future flag football competitions in the CCS. As they celebrate this monumental achievement, the Lancers have proven that hard work and determination truly lead to success.