Gridley’s Gus Stogsdill’s stellar performance as the South teams Quarterback earned him the title MVP. Photo by Chris Pedigo of Yuba Sutter High School Sports Photography

CHICO, CA (MPG) – Representing the Gridley Bulldogs on the football field for the final time, Gus Stogsdill led the South’s large school squad to a 30-24 come-from-behind victory in the 48th Annual NorCal District 4 C-1 Lions All-Star Football Game, which was played in Chico on June 21.

Down 18-0, the South came roaring back to score 30 unanswered points due in large part to Stogsdill’s efforts, given that the Bulldog quarterback threw for a pair of touchdowns, rushed for two more and then on the other side of the ball picked off two passes.

It was a performance that impressed Pierce coach Anthony Tapia, who coached the South and said that Stogsdill “absolutely came through against a very formidable North team.”

Although the Lions’ game serves as the final football experience for most of the players, the experience is a lasting one given the bond that develops between the players as Tapia explained.

“By the end of the first day they were already friends with each other and many will continue to be in the future.”

But ultimately, the event has an even greater purpose than football, given that proceeds from the game go to the Lions’ Camp McCumber, which provides outdoor experiences for children with diabetes.