In Southern California football, the rivalry between Mater Dei and St. John Bosco Football is the stuff of legends. These two powerhouses have traded haymakers for nearly a decade, shaping the high school football landscape with each clash. Although this is headline-worthy in itself this act by the former top spot ranked team for their SoCal rivals takes the spot. In 2024, Mater Dei capped another spectacular season, going wire-to-wire as the No. 1 team in the MaxPreps Top 25 rankings and claiming their third National Championship in eight years. That’s dominance. But what stole the spotlight wasn’t just the Monarchs’ triumph—it was how their fiercest rivals, Bosco, handled the moment.

After the final MaxPreps rankings of the 2024 season dropped, Bosco took to Instagram, not to lament their slip from the top or dwell on what could have been, but to celebrate the broader achievements of their community. “Proud of our little community in Bellflower, CA,” the post read. “Thank you to the Salesians of Don Bosco for providing a platform for young men to strive for greatness. Let’s add Bosco Wrestling to the national rankings at 7! #DestinationBosco #GoBRAVES.” It was a class act from a program that knows a thing or two about being on top. The Braves, who finished fifth nationally with an 11-2 record, understood the bigger picture.

After the final MaxPreps rankings of the 2024 season dropped, Bosco took to Instagram, not to lament their slip from the top or dwell on what could have been, but to celebrate the broader achievements of their community. “Proud of our little community in Bellflower, CA,” the post read. “Thank you to the Salesians of Don Bosco for providing a platform for young men to strive for greatness. Let’s add Bosco Wrestling to the national rankings at 7! #DestinationBosco #GoBRAVES.” It was a class act from a program that knows a thing or two about being on top. The Braves, who finished fifth nationally with an 11-2 record, understood the bigger picture.

They embraced the challenge of playing in the Trinity League—the undisputed toughest high school football league in the country—and tipped their caps to the Monarchs, who steamrolled their way to the top with a perfect 13-0 season.

The respect didn’t come without sting. In the CIF Southern Section Division 1 championship, Bosco suffered a 31-24 loss to Mater Dei, marking the first time in head coach Jason Negro’s 15-year tenure that the Braves were on the wrong end of a running clock. The energetic, Raul Lara and Monarchs has it rough as the Braves put up a good fight but fall short. Yet, Bosco’s response wasn’t about excuses or bitterness—it was about honoring the grind and acknowledging greatness. After all, as national champions in 2019 and 2022, the Braves know the weight of the crown.

St. John Bosco Football’s fiercest rivals’ season was nothing short of spectacular. Going 5-0 in Trinity League action and winning by an average margin of 27.4 points per game, the Monarchs proved why they’re the pinnacle of prep football. Including the Braves, they beat the No. 2-ranked team in the country—twice—and capped it all off with a dominant 13-0 record. But what makes this rivalry so unique is the mutual respect that underscores the competition. Bosco could have taken a different approach after the rankings were finalized, but their classy acknowledgment of Mater Dei’s success spoke volumes.

Game recognizes game, St. John Bosco Football players at the gala

St. John Bosco’s recent Instagram post wasn’t just a message to their fans—it was a heartfelt salute to Southern California football culture. Sure, the Braves slipped in the rankings this year, but their show of grace and perspective reminded everyone why they’re one of the most respected programs in the nation.

Over the years, Bosco has built a legacy of producing top-tier talent. Their alumni roster on The Times’ All-Star Football Team’s Player of the Year speaks volumes. Last year’s MVP, LB, Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, tight end Matayo Uiagalelei in 2021, and OL Wyatt Davis of 2016 are just a few of the big names. While Newbury Park QB Brady Smigiel claimed this year’s Player of the Year award, Bosco’s tradition of excellence continues to shine.

High school football knows talent when they see it, and in 2024, Bosco acknowledged Mater Dei’s greatness. It’s not just about football; it’s about community, tradition, and understanding that excellence is never a solo act.