Bountiful, Utah — The West High Panthers are gearing up for one of their biggest games in decades — a 5A quarterfinal matchup against defending state champions Bountiful RedHawks on Friday afternoon.
At 10-1 on the season, top-seeded West High enters as the favorite, boasting one of the most explosive offenses in Utah high school football, averaging 56 points per game. But their success, players say, comes from more than just talent — it’s built on chemistry, commitment, and brotherhood.
“A Bond No One Else Has”
“I think it’s our connection as a team,” said senior wide receiver and safety Jaxon Toala. “We’ve built a special bond between me, the players, and even the coaches. That’s what makes this team so unique — the brotherhood. We have a bond that no one else has.”
Head Coach Junior Solovi echoed that sentiment, crediting his players’ hard work and unity.
“The chemistry from the offseason until now has been amazing,” Solovi said. “There was no magic formula — they just bought in. We were super disappointed with how last season ended, and that fueled us. But we know we’re up against a great team this week.”
Bountiful Aims for an Upset
While Bountiful enters as the ninth seed, the RedHawks remain a dangerous opponent. The reigning 5A champs bring playoff experience and a hunger to defend their title despite being underdogs.
“I think it’ll be a good matchup,” said West junior quarterback Kamden Lopati. “It’s really about how we prepare during the week. Coach Junior keeps us focused, and it’s fun to experience this with the guys.”
Thirty Years in the Making
West High hasn’t hoisted a state championship trophy since 1992, and the team knows the weight of history heading into Friday’s contest.
“We haven’t been to Rice-Eccles Stadium for 30 years,” said Solovi. “There’s pressure on these guys to perform, and I told them — if you don’t enjoy that pressure, you probably shouldn’t show up tomorrow.”
Senior running back Louie Hamilton said that long drought has only fueled their determination. “There’s a big chip on our shoulder knowing it’s been a while,” he said. “But that’s fuel to our fire.”
Ready for the Moment
West’s players insist they’re not intimidated by the defending champs or the spotlight that comes with being the No. 1 seed.
“It’s a special group,” said Toala. “Our whole team is loaded. People don’t always take us seriously because of our region — but I promise, we’re coming with that boom.”
Kickoff between West High and Bountiful is set for Friday, November 7, at 3 p.m. The winner advances to the 5A semifinals at Rice-Eccles Stadium — and for West, that would mark a long-awaited return to the state’s biggest stage.
