Even after 17 years, the rivalry between Mission Hills High School (MHHS) and San Marcos High School (SMHS) is undeniably still here. A yearly fight between the two schools solely based on their own football teams, the Discovery Bowl is an annual event; so what makes this year so special? 

   “The rivalry between our schools is a great way to strengthen the student communities at both schools, and can be a lot of fun, especially with the events leading up to the Discovery Bowl,” senior Joseph Rhoades said.

   At the height of COVID-19, the 2020 Discovery Bowl was rescheduled from the fall to the spring and was played on SMHS field. The tradition is that the location of the Discovery Bowl alternates schools every year, yet the 2021 game is set to take place at San Marcos again. 

   The athletic directors have dismissed the 2020 season due to the unconventional circumstances brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Playing right where they left off, they are following the exact game schedule from last year.  

   “I don’t really have a problem with playing at San Marcos again, because it feels good beating teams in their atmosphere and showing them what Grizzly Football is all about,” senior Peter Eyabi said.

   Seniors are frustrated that the Discovery Bowl is back on the SMHS field for two years in a row, but they are still optimistic about the outcome. They’ve been building up their school spirit all week, showing support for the team, and are preparing to represent MHHS with their red gear on Friday night. Although the Discovery Bowl won’t be here on our field, the game is sure to be one to remember. 

   “B.E.A.S.T. Believe, Encourage, Achieve, Superior, Training. You know what you have to do, you know how to do it, have the attitude and the time to make it happen. B.E.A.S.T.,” campus supervisor Jimmy Jones Jr. said.