Bishop Gorman High School and Mater Dei High School: A Football Rivalry for the Ages

A Look at the History, Traditions, and Impact of this Epic Rivalry

In the annals of American high school football, few rivalries can match the intensity, passion, and storied history of that between Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California. These two football powerhouses have faced off on the gridiron for over two decades, creating a legacy of unforgettable games, legendary players, and a fan base that is second to none.

The Genesis of a Rivalry

The rivalry between Bishop Gorman and Mater Dei began in the late 1990s when both schools were emerging as national powerhouses. Bishop Gorman, led by legendary coach Bob Dylan, had won three state championships in the previous five years, while Mater Dei, under the guidance of the legendary Bruce Rollinson, had won four state titles in the same period. In 1999, the two teams met for the first time in the prestigious CIF Southern Section Division I championship game, a contest that Mater Dei won 24-14. That game set the stage for a rivalry that would captivate fans for years to come.

The Rivalry Heats Up

Over the next decade, Bishop Gorman and Mater Dei would meet on the gridiron several times, with each game adding to the intensity of the rivalry. In 2004, Bishop Gorman defeated Mater Dei in the CIF Southern Section Division I championship game, ending Mater Dei's 22-game winning streak. The following year, Mater Dei returned the favor, defeating Bishop Gorman in the same championship game. The rivalry reached its peak in 2009 when the two teams met in the CIF State Division I championship game. Mater Dei won the game 31-14, but the game was marred by a benches-clearing brawl that resulted in several players being ejected.

The Rivalry Today

The rivalry between Bishop Gorman and Mater Dei remains one of the most intense in high school football today. The two teams have met on the gridiron every year since 2004, and each game is a sellout. The rivalry has also helped to raise the profile of both schools, and both Bishop Gorman and Mater Dei are now considered to be among the top high school football programs in the country.

Conclusion

The rivalry between Bishop Gorman High School and Mater Dei High School is one of the most storied and passionate in American high school football. The two teams have faced off on the gridiron for over two decades, creating a legacy of unforgettable games, legendary players, and a fan base that is second to none. The rivalry shows no signs of slowing down, and it is sure to continue to captivate fans for years to come.