Morse Overcomes Hoover to Capture First CIF Crown Since 2018

Photo from SD Prep Insider

By San Diego Monitor News Staff

Morse claimed the CIF San Diego Section Division 5 championship on Friday night with a 45–30 win over Hoover, powered by a standout performance from Superior Garror.

Garror delivered four touchdowns, breaking loose for rushing scores of 42, 16 and 32 yards, and adding a momentum-shifting 60-yard punt return for another. Quarterback Ethan Esmailian contributed two touchdown passes, connecting with Alex Smith and De’Vell Green as Morse built a lead Hoover could never erase.

After a scoreless first quarter, the Tigers struck first with a 28-yard field goal from Christopher Felix Martinez early in the second. Morse outscored Hoover 17–6 in that quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the game.

Hoover quarterback Hezekiah Manuel threw three touchdown passes to keep the Cardinals within reach, but Morse’s steady offense and key defensive stops proved decisive. Gael Diaz, Edward Walker and Mekhi Toliver recorded tackles for loss, and a critical fourth-quarter sack by Rochadd Laban helped secure the victory.

The win marks a significant turnaround for Morse, which improved to 9–4 a year after finishing 1–9. Hoover ended its season at 7–7.

A packed crowd at Southwestern College added to the atmosphere, with Morse’s Jr. ROTC Drum Corps energizing the stadium.

The 15-member group, dressed in patriotic attire, kept the celebration going well after the final whistle as the Tigers celebrated their first section title since 2018.