East County Sports

Opening shutout Sultans first since ’15

2025 EAST COUNTY PREP FOOTBALL

SANTANA 30, CANYON HILLS 0

EastCountySports.com staff report

SANTEE — For the third straight season, the Santana Sultans made a statement in their season opener, blanking Canyon Hills 30-0 at Santee Community Stadium Friday night.

The Sultans set the tone early with a safety recorded by senior Jordyn Gillissie, who finished with four tackles and 3.5 sacks. Santana’s defense continued to pressure Canyon Hills all night, forcing turnovers and limiting big plays.

Quarterback Ethan Miller spread the ball effectively, completing 20-of-32 passes for 199 yards and two touchdowns. Xander Bennett and Maddox Esso each caught scoring passes, while Caleb Carnes added a 6-yard rushing touchdown and sophomore Julian Mayers contributed a 1-yard rushing score, finishing with a team-high 69 yards on 10 carries.

The Sultans’ defense created several key opportunities. Koko Thornton intercepted a pass that was returned 30 yards, and Anthony Terry forced a fumble that was recovered by Maddox Esso. The front seven, led by Gillissie and Tatum Morehouse (sack), kept Canyon Hills off balance throughout the contest.

The receiving corps also made big contributions: Sean Gardinera had five receptions for 41 yards, while Denton Goar added four catches for 77 yards. Miller’s precise passing and Davion Williams’ success in the run game complemented the balanced attack, keeping Santana in control at every stage.

With the 30-0 win, Santana starts the season on a strong note, asserting its dominance over Canyon Hills and demonstrating why the Sultans are a team to watch in East County football this fall.

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