Sports
The Regular Season has Ended for Desert Empire League Football. Next Stop - Playoffs!
Desert Empire League Football Season Closes with High Stakes and Big Wins
The Desert Empire League football season wrapped up Thursday night with crucial matchups that decided playoff spots and a share of the league championship. Under the bright lights across the Valley, several teams delivered strong performances as the regular season came to an end.
Shadow Hills Handles Xavier Prep
At Shadow Hills High School, the Knights defeated Xavier Prep 23–7 in a game that could shape the playoff picture. The Saints entered the night aiming for a top-three finish and a postseason berth, but Shadow Hills took control early and never looked back. Both teams now await word on potential at-large playoff bids.
Palm Springs Claims Share of the Title
In another key matchup, Palm Springs hosted Rancho Mirage. The Rattlers got a boost from the return of standout player Jeremiah Johnson, who had missed most of the season due to injury. Rancho Mirage struck first to take a 7–0 lead, but Palm Springs responded with a strong offensive showing to win 33–21.
After going winless in league play last year, Palm Springs finishes the season with a 4–1 record, earning a share of the Desert Empire League championship.
Palm Desert Dominates Rivalry Flag Game
The annual Flag Game between Palm Desert and La Quinta ended in a one-sided affair. Both teams entered the rivalry matchup at 3–1, but Palm Desert dominated after a slow first quarter. The Aztecs scored on the ground, through the air, and even on a two-point conversion, shutting out La Quinta 35–0.
The victory gives Palm Desert its third straight Flag Game win and a share of the league championship alongside Palm Springs.
Playoff Picture Taking Shape
With the regular season concluded, Palm Desert and Palm Springs sit atop the league standings and will await their playoff seedings. La Quinta is also expected to make the postseason, while Xavier Prep and Shadow Hills remain in contention for at-large bids. Rancho Mirage’s season has come to a close.
Firebirds Win Thriller in Overtime
In hockey action, the Coachella Valley Firebirds picked up a 4–3 overtime win thanks to a dramatic game-winning goal from Tyson Jugnauth — his first in the AHL. The goal came after a 3-on-2 rush and a fortunate deflection off a defender’s skate in the final minute of overtime.
The Firebirds return to the ice Saturday at 6 p.m. at Acrisure Arena, where they’ll face the Colorado Eagles.
By: Caitlyn Kelley
October 31, 2025
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