The gridiron clash between the Apple Valley Sundevils and the Victor Valley Jackrabbits is set to reverberate through Newton T. Bass Stadium on September 8th. This storied rivalry, known as the Bell Game, will mark the 54th meeting between these two spirited teams and is a highly anticipated matchup in the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series.

Since its inception in 1969, the Bell Game has showcased the fierce competition and unwavering school spirit that defines high school football rivalries. A crowd of 7,000 passionate fans will converge upon Newton T. Bass Stadium, eager to witness this clash under the Friday night lights.

Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, expressed his excitement, saying, “This desert matchup between Apple Valley and Victor Valley for community pride and bragging rights encapsulates the essence of high school football. It is only right that we have them be a part of our 20thGreat American Rivalry Series!”

Last year, the Sundevils dominated the Jackrabbits with a resounding 48-6 victory, leaving a lasting impression on the field. Jirah “PEP” Leoupepetele, the game’s Most Valuable Player, showcased his exceptional talent, leading Apple Valley to victory. With 11 victories in their pocket, the Sundevils will strive to extend their winning streak against the motivated Jackrabbits.

Adding to the anticipation, Apple Valley’s fire department will escort the team to the game, highlighting the significance of this rivalry within the community. Furthermore, a captivating documentary chronicling the Bell Game serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of this matchup. This past year, Coach Kyle Godfrey of the Apple Valley Sundevils admitted to showing up late to build the anticipation of the game. Adding to that fire, the team doesn’t even wait to get to the locker room to strap on their armor, they are ready for war straight off the bus. Coach Godfrey was quoted stating this ““If we’re going to strap it up on the bus I don’t want to go back to the locker room when the kids are ready to go.”

As the two teams prepare to clash, Victor Valley’s second-season head coach is determined to rewrite their luck in this historic rivalry. The Jackrabbits will bring their unwavering resolve and determination to the field, hoping to turn the tide in their favor.

The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown between the Apple Valley Sundevils and the Victor Valley Jackrabbits. Get ready for a battle that will showcase the heart and soul of high school football, for when it comes to the Bell Game, We Know Friday Nights.

MVP

Noah Celie
Apple Valley

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Rudy Correa

Apple Valley

Rudy is a four-year player that has played guard, center, and Defensive Line. He is selfless and hard working. Rudy is also a part of the CAMP program at AVHS.
Kyron Harris

Victor Valley

Kyron is a model student both in the classroom and on the gridiron. Kyron has maintained an impressive GPA during his academic career while participating on the football team for all four years. As an established player on the varsity squad, Kyron is an invaluable teammate.

GAME SUMMARY

Tonight’s Cali Bell Game fired up with a huge 3rd and 15 catch by the AV Sun Devils for a 1st down. The Devils went to their run game moving it down the field and followed it up with a deep pass to take the early lead 7-0 in the 1st Quarter. Apple Valley continued that offensive dominance with a strong running game which increased their lead to 27-0 by the end of the 1st! The Jackrabbits defense tried to bounce back with a clutch interception, and the Victor Valley offense made their presence known with a long pass and followed up by a run by Nikolas Blocker to put them on the board. Going into the half, there were big runs and passes from both teams, but it was a dominant Apple Valley offense that led them to a halftime lead of 42-7. Apple Valley continued their offensive domination after the half, widening the gap to an impressive 56-13 in the 3rd quarter. The Jackrabbits showed no quit in their fighting spirit adding another touchdown to put 20 points on the board and try to close the gap but the Sun Devils offense wasn't finished adding another score of their own. Apple Valley secured the 63-20 victory, taking home "The Bell" on a great night of California high school football!