The Pomona Panthers are poised to reclaim their status as a football powerhouse as they enter the Class 3A state championship game on March 2, 2024. The team, based in Arvada, Colorado, will face off against the top-ranked Windsor Wizards at Canvas Stadium on the Colorado State University campus. Kickoff is set for 13:30 hours.
After years of challenges, the Panthers have demonstrated impressive resilience. Coach Nate Johnson acknowledged the difficulties the program faced, including declining enrollment and player transfers. “It’s been a challenge for sure,” he said. “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.”
The Panthers, who once dominated the Class 5A ranks, are now looking to add a third state title to their history, having previously won championships in 1988 and 2017. They achieved their last title by defeating Eaglecrest in a thrilling 56-49 finish, which remains the highest-scoring Class 5A title game in state history. While they were state finalists in 2015 and 2016, they encountered formidable opponents in Valor Christian, losing both encounters.
In the past two seasons, Pomona struggled with a combined 3-17 record in Class 5A, prompting the decision to drop down two classifications. The move has revitalized the team, leading them to an impressive 12-1 record this season, with their only loss coming against Dakota Ridge.
The story of the Panthers’ resurgence is embodied by players like Luis Santana. Now a senior, Santana recalls his early days as a freshman weighing just 155 pounds. His experience during a preseason scrimmage against Cherry Creek, a Class 5A powerhouse, highlighted the challenges of competing against larger schools. “Going against schools that are bigger than you, better than you, can be difficult,” Santana reflected. Now, he has increased his weight and performance, rushing for 1,025 yards and eight touchdowns this season.
Another key player, Emmitt Munson, describes himself as an “athlete” who contributes in multiple ways. He has rushed for 391 yards and seven touchdowns, made 18 receptions for 44 yards and six touchdowns, and recorded 85 tackles as a linebacker. Munson, who won a 5A state wrestling title last season, believes the experience from wrestling has bolstered the Panthers’ football program, stating, “We have lived those big moments. We understand the pressure.”
The Panthers’ offensive strategy is spearheaded by junior quarterback Tucker Ingersoll, who has thrown for 1,800 yards and 26 touchdowns this season while also rushing for 475 yards and seven touchdowns. Ingersoll highlights the strength of the offensive line, asserting, “We run a spread offense. I’d say we’re really explosive. Our O-line is the best in 3A, in my opinion.”
As the Panthers prepare for the championship game, they are aware of the weight of their legacy but are focused on creating their own identity. Santana expressed the team’s determination, stating, “We want to create our own legend.” A victory against Windsor would not only add to the team’s championship history but also solidify their comeback story in Colorado high school football.
