Ryan Orsini is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Marcos De Niza High School for AZPreps365.com

TEMPE — The Marcos De Niza Padres took down the Tempe Buffaloes 24-7 on Thursday in a dominant victory on Senior Night.

The win carried extra emotion for the team celebrating its seniors under the lights at Marcos De Niza. The Padres made sure to make this rivalry game a special one to remember. 

Behind a sharp offensive showing and another dominant defensive effort, Marcos De Niza showcased the depth and talent that has powered its season.

The Padres came out fast, building early momentum behind senior quarterback Tehani Tongauiha and wide receiver/linebacker Angelina Navarro, who connected for two touchdowns in the first half, including a 30-yard strike that opened the scoring. 

Marcos De Niza’s offense added two more touchdowns later in the game from a balanced group effort, including multiple long rushing plays that kept Tempe’s defense on its heels.

“It was kind of like our last time type of feeling,” Juliana Perez senior defensive back said, reflecting on the significance of Senior Night. The Padres’ defense matched the offense’s energy, holding the Buffaloes to just one score. 

Linebackers Julisa Rivera and Navarro anchored a unit that communicated effectively and executed at a high level. Perez also contributed with multiple flag pulls throughout the game, helping to stall Tempe’s drives and maintain the lead. 

“Holding our positions and communicating on the field is very important while making sure we have each other’s backs when it comes to certain areas on the field,” Rivera said. 

Navarro, who made plays on both sides of the ball, credited the team’s offensive creativity for helping them find space and score.

 “A lot of open paths and lots of twisting and turning and getting to that end zone,” Navarro said. “It was a great day and the energy was great today.”

The defense contributed several key stops and flag pulls to keep Tempe’s offense from gaining momentum. Rivera, Navarro, and Perez each recorded multiple defensive plays that kept the Buffaloes’ drives short, limiting scoring opportunities. 

Their effort on both sides of the ball demonstrated the discipline and teamwork that have defined the Padres all season.

The Padres’ focus and execution reflected a team built on experience and hard work. When asked what she’s most excited for in the remainder of the season, Rivera said, “Just to play these last games with my teammates.”

As the final whistle blew, the seniors were met with cheers from classmates, family members, and teammates who recognized their impact on the program.

For Tongauiha, Navarro, Rivera, Perez, and the rest of the graduating class, the win was a fitting way to close their high school careers at home with a rivalry victory.

With their 24-7 Senior Night victory over Tempe, the Padres once again proved that both their offense and defense can shine, leaving behind a legacy of effort, unity and pride for Marcos De Niza flag football.