Ceres High compiled a 2-1-1 record on its way to a fifth-place showing at the 10th Annual Modesto Junior College 7-on-7 Passing Tournament on July 9.
The Bulldogs advanced to the semifinals the previous summer.
"Obviously, we didn't reach our goal of winning it," Ceres High senior quarterback Chris Lubinsky said. "We had some bright moments on both offense and defense. We were able to be competitive at the tournament."
Lubinsky totaled 13 touchdowns with just one interception on the day.
Chris completed TD passes to Marcellus Boykins, Conner Johnson, Nick Jones, Wyatt Ogden and Andrew Gibson.
Ceres High and Sonora battled to a 20-20 tie during the consolation finals.
The Wildcats captured the Sac-Joaquin Section Division-V title last fall.
Sonora advanced to the CIF Northern California Division IV-AA Bowl Game.
"It was really competitive," Lubinsky said while talking about the Bulldogs' matchup with the Wildcats. "You always want to play your best against the best teams."
Lubinsky and Johnson combined for the tying touchdown with 15 seconds to play.
Chris tallied three TD passes.
Lubinsky enjoyed competing against Sonora standout safety/slot back Kane Rodgers.
Chris and Kane both play for the Valley Got Talent (VGT) 7-on-7 Football Team, which is coached by Bonsu Elite Athletics owner Les Bonsu.
"We ran into each other at the Lions All-Star Game in Tracy," Lubinsky said. "We talked for a little bit. You always have to be aware of where he is on the field. He's a speedy, athletic ball hawk."
Ceres High won two of three games in the East Pool.
The Bulldogs beat Argonaut (24-6) and Downey B (20-18).
Ceres High lost to second-place East Union (32-20).
"Our defense played really well," Lubinsky said. "We were consistent on offense. We made some pretty good plays against some pretty good schools. It was a lot of fun."
Ceres High competed against Modesto High on July 12 at Bulldog Stadium.
The Bulldogs haven't enjoyed a winning season or made the playoffs in varsity football since 2004.
"It's the end of our summer stuff," Ceres High head coach Bret Durossette said. "We're trying to get better. Ceres has never been a powerhouse in football. Our outlook is positive. We want to do well."
