Kennedy beats first ranked Div. 1 opponent in program history

Photo Courtesy of Marlene's Media

The Robert F. Kennedy Thunderbirds secured the program’s first victory over a division one opponent this past Friday with a 29-28 overtime win over the Hanford Bullpups.

The Thunderbirds triumph sets a new benchmark for the relatively young football program, and adds another milestone on the list of accomplishments for veteran head coach Mario Millan. 

Millan had nothing but praise for the team following their week one win. 

“[Friday Nights' win] was a signature win for the Thunderbirds. It was the first win over a ranked D1 opponent. The team's ability to fight to a hard fought win is a testament to the work these TBirds have put in since the loss to Madera in the semi-finals in 2024. The bar for the program has inched up.” 

Kennedy’s senior running back Jamison Membreve shined early into the matchup, scoring a 16-yard rushing touchdown in the first quarter. 

Hanford responded in the first two minutes of the second quarter with a score of their own as Jerren Mao tossed a 12-yard passing touchdown to Rajhon Newton. 

Membreve would strike again just minutes later, this time with a 26-yard scamper into the endzone to secure a two-score performance. 

"That game was a dogfight and we wanted to prove we have what it takes to be able to play at that higher level." said Membreve.

Photo courtesy of Marlene's Media

As the half came to a close the Thunderbird defense stepped up following a big play and ensuing lengthy drive from Hanford. This culminated with a 56-yard pick-six by Kennedy’s Isiah Feathers, giving Kennedy a commanding 21-7 lead heading into halftime. 

The second half saw the Thunderbirds lose grip on their command over the game however, giving up two rushing touchdowns while their offense came to a halt. 

Despite scoring twice, Hanford trailed Kennedy 21-19 following an unsuccessful extra point attempt. 

Late into the fourth quarter however, the Thunderbirds relinquished a safety after an intentional grounding was called, tying the game at 21-a-piece. 

After both teams traded shots at the endzone, the score at the end of regulation stood at 21-21. 

Hanford started overtime with the ball, and scored almost immediately through a 15-yard pass from Mao to Taveon Patterson. This gave Hanford the lead 28-21 as Kennedy took possession. 

The Thunderbirds offense was sparked following a 21-yard pass from quarterback Jordan Palomo to Yoshi Tanaka to get the ball to the one-yard line. Palomo then busted through the goal line to score the Thunderbird touchdown. 

Kennedy took a timeout following the touchdown, gathering a strategy on how they would complete the two point conversion. 

The Thunderbirds entered the field in a triple-back set and jammed in Jace Demacabalin for the conversion and the win in walk-off fashion. The sideline and stands alike erupted in celebration for the programs first win over a division one opponent. 

The team/fans jubilation was well earned, as the victory is more than just a win to begin the season. The game served as a statement that Kennedy isn't done progressing as a program, and in fact has a lot more room to grow.

Kennedy, now based in division three, was almost instantly put onto the radars of all teams in the central section regardless of their division. And their upcoming matchup at Buchanan (Clovis) later this week is yet another test of the team's newfound ability.