Published September 3, 2026
BY OLIVIA FORT
For the first time in its 80-year history, Carmel High School played a home football game under stadium lights, a historic night that coincided with the annual Shoe Game rivalry against Pacific Grove High School, energizing the home crowd while also bringing disappointment as the Breakers edged out a 26–22 win, ending the Padres’ 11-year streak.
Junior wide receiver Jackson Kott stretches for a touchdown catch as Cameron Tally of Pacific Grove defends in the end zone. Photo by GRIFFIN STEELY
In the inaugural Aug. 28 night game, Pacific Grove led 14-0 early before Carmel responded with a 10-yard rushing touchdown from senior wide receiver Lucas Rocha in the second quarter and a 45-yard touchdown run from senior quarterback Luke Stiver in the third. A fourth-quarter push brought the Padres ahead 22–20 with minutes remaining, but P.G. regained the lead with a 12-yard touchdown pass with 13 seconds left to secure the win.
“It was a great game and a great environment,” said Stiver. “We really put our all into it.”
For decades, the push for stadium lights has been one of the most persistent student-led efforts in Carmel Unified. CHS students attended board meetings and organized petitions, fully aware the project would not be completed in time for them to experience.
“It was really unique, and I’m proud we were part of the first team to play under the lights,” said senior Carl Weigel, a Fresno State-committed offensive lineman.
More than 1,500 tickets were sold online before kickoff, with walk‑up sales pushing attendance to one of the largest crowds in CHS football history. Photo by GRIFFIN STEELY
The lights came to represent student voice, community identity and a long-standing desire to bring CHS in line with the traditions enjoyed by nearly every other local high school. Parents, alumni and teachers contributed to the effort over the years, arguing that night games would strengthen school spirit, increase community engagement and allow CHS to host events long limited by daylight.
Permanent stadium lights were installed in fall 2023, but lawsuits, California Environmental Quality Act requirements and parking-lot construction prevented CHS from hosting nighttime events until after last school year’s fall sports season.
Leading up to the game, athletic director and head coach Golden Anderson emphasized the importance of staying grounded.
“We can’t make it about everything happening around the game,” Anderson explained. “We’ve got to focus on football and what we need to do.”
Carmel lines up for the snap while Pacific Grove tightens its defensive front. Photo by GRIFFIN STEELY
The game required expanded campus logistics, including additional security, portable lighting and shuttle service from Carmel Middle School. Beforehand, 1,500 presale tickets were sold, and additional tickets were available for purchase at the gate.
Families lined the fences, alumni returned to campus and students filled The Fog Line, the school’s organized student section.
“It felt surreal,” said ASB vice president Abby Frey. “Seeing The Fog Line packed under the lights made it clear how many years and how many students worked to make this happen.”
Under the lights, the night marked a turning point for CHS athletics.
“The spirit and excitement was incredible,” explained assistant principal Ernesto Pacleb. “The result wasn’t what we hoped for, but the night itself was a huge success for our school and community.”
The Padres’ next home game will be against Monterey High School on Sept. 25.
