Heartbreak in Del Mar: City of Troy's Title Hopes Dashed
Troy, the defending Southern California Division 3 champions, entered the 2023 season with high hopes of repeating as champions. Led by a talented roster featuring several key returners, the Warriors were considered one of the favorites to win the Division 3 title.
However, Troy's title aspirations were shattered on Friday night in a heartbreaking 28-21 loss to Del Mar in the CIF-SDS Section Division 3 championship game.
A Tale of Two Halves
The game started out promisingly for Troy, as the Warriors jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first half. Running back Damion Hart scored on a 2-yard run in the first quarter, and quarterback Tyler Tremain connected with wide receiver Jayden Williams on a 40-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter.
However, Del Mar rallied in the second half, outscoring Troy 28-7. Running back Aaron Byrd scored on touchdown runs of 1, 5, and 10 yards, while quarterback Jack Sullivan threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Anthony Steele.
A Heartbreaking Finish
Troy had a chance to tie the game in the final minutes, but Tremain's pass to Williams fell incomplete in the end zone. Del Mar recovered the ball and ran out the clock to secure the victory.
The loss was a crushing blow to Troy, who had worked so hard all season to reach the championship game. The Warriors finished the season with a 10-3 record, but their ultimate goal of repeating as champions remained elusive.
A Credit to Del Mar
Despite the disappointment, Troy coach Steve Stamper praised Del Mar for their performance.
"Del Mar played a great game," Stamper said. "They made the plays when they needed to, and we didn't. We have to give them a lot of credit."
Del Mar coach Jonathon Bard echoed Stamper's sentiments.
"I'm so proud of my team," Bard said. "We've worked so hard all season, and it all came together tonight. This is a special moment for our program."