Statues fell — and new monuments rose — with Griffin Ronstadt’s 1-yard touchdown late in the third quarter of Canyon Del Oro’s 35-27 win over Cienega last Friday.
The senior back’s third score of the night was the 34th of his career — breaking the Dorado record for rushing touchdowns set in 1969 by NFL referee Ed Hochuli.
“I had no idea I was even near it,” Ronstadt said. “Coaches came up to me after the touchdown and shook my hand. So it felt pretty good.”
With more than 500 Dorado offensive yards — 264 of which came on Ka’Deem Carey’s feet — Ronstadt’s milestone might’ve slipped past fans without the loudspeaker bulletin on homecoming eve.
“Whatever I can do to help the team, I’m ready to do it,” Ronstadt said. “(The number has) been around a long time, and I feel honored to have this record.”
Regardless of teammates’ fire, it’s always great when any young athlete can break long-standing totals, said CDO head coach Pat Nugent.
“(Ronstadt) doesn’t get the touches, because obviously Ka’Deem Carey is an unbelievable athlete,” Nugent said. “But Griffin Ronstadt, I’ll take him wherever I want. He’s a great player and we’ll give it to him wherever we need to.”
