Football, 8-4, has concluded a historic season after losing in a tight 19-14 game to the Independence Falcons in the second round of the CIF State Playoffs last Friday. 

The Venice homestand was energetic all night long as the two teams went back and forth.

According to coach Angelo Gasca, the defense was good and the team was able to slow down Independence’s running attack, but the offense was not good enough. 

“We struggled to run the ball early on and started to get going eventually but it was too late,” Gasca said. “They’re physical on both ends and have big, talented linemen.” 

Despite the loss, the Gondoliers won the CIF city championship for the first time in Venice history and Gasca was extremely proud of his team.

“We overcame lots of adversity from COVID-19 and did something this school has never done before,” Gasca said. “Very, very proud of the team.” 

Senior Whaleon Hodge, a defensive lineman, was upset about the loss but is still proud of the way his team performed throughout the year. 

“I’ve grown a bond with teammates over the year, and I’m proud of how much we accomplished, especially given the circumstances,” he said.