On a crisp Thursday evening, the Antioch City Council gathered in the historic chambers of the municipal building to honor two remarkable basketball squads from Cornerstone Christian School. The boys' varsity team and the girls' varsity team had each captured a state championship in their respective divisions, and the council seized the opportunity to publicly acknowledge their perseverance, teamwork, and the pride they have brought to the community.
A Celebration of Champions
The boys' team, under the steady guidance of head coach Ron Bernal, secured the CIF Boys Division III State Championship with a 74‑64 victory over the Birmingham Patriots, finishing the season at 29‑8. Meanwhile, the girls' squad, coached by Kris Del Monte, downed the Redding Christian Lions 48‑27 to claim the NorCal Girls Division VI title and end the year at 27‑7. Both programs were celebrated not only for their on‑court success but also for the character they displayed throughout a demanding campaign.
During the ceremony, Councilmember Tom Menasco presented a formal proclamation to the players and coaches, while Councilmember Eddie Beaudin highlighted the significance of youth sports in fostering leadership and academic excellence. The accolades were complemented by a special presentation from the Antioch Sports Legends, who awarded each team a commemorative plaque at the Antioch Historical Museum, a venue that has long served as a repository of the city's athletic heritage.
The event also featured remarks from community pillars such as Gary Bras, who spoke about the lasting impact of these championships on the school's culture and on the city's reputation as a nurturing ground for talent. Ron Bernal, the school's athletic director, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and hinted at ambitious goals for the upcoming season, including a repeat championship run.
The Antioch City Council issued a proclamation recognizing the teams' achievements, and the Antioch Sports Legends presented the teams with plaques recognizing their accomplishments. The ceremony concluded with a standing ovation from an audience that included families, alumni, and local business owners, underscoring the deep communal ties that sports can forge.