2025 Fall Sport Preview

By: Scarlett Pearson ’26, Emi Green ’26, and Samantha Scott ’26, The Crozier student journalists

As the school year takes off, so do O'Dowd's fall sports teams! O’Dowd is getting excited for the year of spirit and sports that follow! Tune in to hear all about the fall sports teams!

Football

Following an eventful 2024 season, the football team continues to put in hard work and perseverance. In their first non-league game of the season, the football team won against Armijo High School. They put up a good fight in their first home game against Mater Dei, though unfortunately they could not make the comeback in the second half. The team has received new transfer students this year and is excited to showcase them! Be on the lookout for game updates and the homecoming and senior night game announcement!

Girls Volleyball

Girls volleyball is already defeating other schools with their fierce sportsmanship! In a recent tournament they won four games and finished second place among many other schools. They also competed in the Sierra Invitational, posting a record of 3-3. They have given a peek into a promising season, so be sure to be on the lookout for games!

Girls & Boys Water Polo

Girls and Boys Water Polo are making waves. As the season began, both varsity teams headed to Sierra Shoot Outs. The boys went 3-1, and the girls' score will be coming soon. Watch out for Captain Carson Brill ’26, and Jake Hyde ’27 as they look to turn tides for the Varsity Boys Water Polo team this season. On the girls' side, keep an eye out for Zoe Goss ’26 at set and don’t forget to turn towards Riley Welch ’28 as she drives to goal. The girls' team has young and promising talent with freshman Amber Beatty ’29, who so far has been the top scorer. Be sure to check out the O’Dowd Water Polo Instagram and O’Dowd Athletics for more information on games to come!

Girls Golf

Taking a swing at girls golf as we start strong, going 5-1. With momentum building, the team is aiming to make a deep push in league play and beyond. Captain Ananya Prem ’26 explains, “The girls golf team is one of the closest-knit teams you will find at O’Dowd. Not one practice goes by without laughter, bonding, and encouragement.” The golf team is looking at one of their best seasons yet, so make sure to stay tuned for games. Go Dragons!

Cross Country

The dragons enter the 2025 cross country season as the slight favorite in a highly competitive NCS Division IV field. For the third straight year, the same four teams (Archie Williams, St. Mary’s, Miramonte, and O’Dowd) are expected to battle for state meet berths. However, O’Dowd returns the fastest top five on paper. Sebatsion Taylor ’26, last year’s Division 1V runner-up, opened the season with a 15:13 win at the Hayward Scrimage. Additionally, Nathaniel Mesfen ’26, Liam Wright ’26, James Prater ’25, and Dylan Blout ’25 give the Dragons impressive depth and the best chance to rise to the top!

Girls Tennis

O’Dowd girls tennis team is off to a strong start this fall, opening the season with a 4-2 record/ After splitting their first two matches, the Dragons bounced back impressively, sweeping through their tournament in Fresno with back-to-back wins. They posted an 8-1 win over Heritage, followed by a 5-1 win against Clovis, and finally a hard-fought 4-1 victory over Louisville. With growing momentum as the season continues, our girls tennis program looks poised for a competitive season ahead.

Cheer

Under the bright Friday night football lights, the cheerleaders help kick off the season and show us their moves! The cheerleaders have been the star of the halftime football shows so far this year and have pumped up the crowd like no other! Their cheers get everyone excited to not only support their football team, but also to express dragon spirit. They have a couple competitions coming up to look out for and are even going to nationals this February. Be on the lookout for updates!

The Dragons are looking great so far this year and are excited to take on any team that comes their way. Be sure to come out and support! Go Dragons!