Above: Rio Hondo Prep hosting 2008 title game. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Cowell and James Sadana

Desert Christian lobbied to move the venue for Saturday’s game, arguing it would bring 800 fans. The argument was quickly shot down by the CIF-SS, according to coach Ken Drain, who said the CIF-SS looked into Desert Christian’s attendance of its last three games and determined a venue change away from Rio Hondo Prep was not necessary.

“Based on attendance CIF checked for the last three games they just don’t think it’s worth the money to go out and rent a place,” Drain said.

Rio Hondo Prep hosted the 2008 title game and was forced to move the game to Covina District Field, a move that cost $2,500 to rent the facility. Linfield Christian had said it would bring roughly 800 fans but only about 350 fans made the trip.

“It rained so that might have dampened some people’s spirits about coming,” Drain said. “We’re going to bring additional bleachers just in case for Saturday’s game. We’ll be able to take care of the crowd.”