Thanksgiving is a time for traditions, and in Fresno, California, Turkey Bowls have become a beloved part of the holiday. At the prep level, a select few teams get the honor of a morning practice before taking the field. One such team is the Madera Coyotes, who went through a final practice through the morning fog before playing in the DIII championship. It will be their first final since 2014, and head coach Kenny Paolinelli was on staff as the quarterbacks coach back then. “It means a lot,” he said. “This is something I always dreamed of as a high school player. We’ve always talked about trying to win a Valley title here.”

Madera Coyotes' Championship Journey

The Coyotes have made it to six section finals but have a record of 0-5 in those previous championship appearances. Quarterback Joel Arellano was just named Player of the Week by Cal-Hi Sports. In Friday’s overtime win over Kennedy of Delano, Joel accounted for eight touchdowns and 606 total yards of offense, the second-most all-time in a game in Central section history. “Just making plays and not being nervous or scared, and my ability to scramble and extend plays,” he said. Their explosive offense has the potential to lead them to victory on Friday.

Final Practice and Preparing for the Big Game

The morning practice before the DIII championship is a crucial time for the Madera Coyotes. It allows them to fine-tune their strategies and get into the right mindset for the big game. Coach Paolinelli emphasizes the importance of these practices in helping the team perform at their best. “It’s about getting the guys focused and ready to go,” he said. “Every detail matters in a championship game.”

Overcoming Past Challenges

Despite their previous championship struggles, the Coyotes are determined to make a change this time. They have learned from their past experiences and are using that knowledge to their advantage. “We know what it takes to get to this point,” said Joel Arellano. “We’re not going to let it slip away.” The team is focused on staying composed and making the most of their opportunities on Friday.

Kerman Lions' Championship Drought

Seventeen miles south, the Kerman Lions are looking to extend their championship drought. Last year, Damon Jenkins led Kerman to the first title game in school history. Despite falling short to Mission Oak, his Lions are back in the final after knocking off the #1 seed Porterville. “It’s just those little things that I’m harping on the kids that they didn’t understand when I first got here that they understand now,” he said. Little things like the team responding in unison have made a big difference.

Coach Jenkins' Experience and Leadership

Jenkins, a Bay Area native and graduate of De La Salle, won three national championships as a player before becoming a standout corner at Fresno State. His experience and leadership have been crucial in guiding the Kerman Lions to this point. “They understand what I’m about,” he said. “They understand that when I talk to them, it’s coming from a place of love.” His ability to connect with the players has helped build a strong team bond.

Looking Ahead to the Big Game

Both the Madera Coyotes and the Kerman Lions are focused on winning their first section title. For Madera, it will be the first time playing host to a Section final. Friday’s game promises to be a thrilling showdown between 8-4 Madera led by their explosive offense and 11-2 Kerman led by its shutdown defense. “It’s going to be a battle,” said Joel Arellano. “But we’re ready.”