Bulldogs lose to Churchill, but garner plenty of All-League honors

By: Breven Honda

For the second consecutive season, the Virgin Valley High School football team reached the state playoffs.

However, a run for the state title came to an end in the semifinals, losing to Churchill County, 31-19 on Nov. 15.

Although the Bulldogs were up with the Greenwave, only trailing 17-13 at halftime, Virgin Valley only scored six points in the second half, compared to Churchill County putting together two touchdown drives.

Bulldogs senior quarterback Koby Perry completed 14-of-23 passes for 199 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Perry also added 34 rushing yards on seven carries. Fellow senior Elian Pinto caught both touchdowns as he totaled six receptions for 135 yards.

However, junior running back Drew Dixon was limited to 45 rushing yards on 18 carries.

Although Virgin Valley’s season came to an end, the Bulldogs went 9-4, won the 3A South League regular season title and won its league playoff semifinal game, 39-6, over Boulder City to earn its trip to the state tournament.

Against the four-seeded Eagles, Virgin Valley scored 19 points in the fourth quarter and took a 32-0 lead entering the fourth quarter.

Dixon and senior Parker Jensen combined to record 297 rushing yards on 21 carries and six touchdowns. Perry also added 69 rushing yards on four rushes while completing 8-of-19 passes for 41 yards and an interception.

The Bulldogs defense also stepped up as senior Aiden Muniz and junior Jaden Flores each recorded an interception.

As a result, their success all season long led to players racking up the awards.

Head coach Matt Woods earned 3A South Coach of the Year honors. Pinto was named League MVP, Dixon earned Offensive League MVP, senior Jayden Healy earned Lineman of the Year.

Perry and Cooper Jensen earned All-League First Team Offensive honors. Jayden Flores, Javi Rubucava and Parker Jensen were named to the All-League Second Team. On defense, Parker Jensen garnered All-League First Team honors along with Dallin Moeai. Flores, Muniz, Dixon and Dominic Salveria also earning Second Team All-League honors.