High school football returns to Valley Children’s Stadium

Bullard's Chase Case passes under pressure from Clovis High's Jack Jarl, far right, Friday night, Sept. 18, 2026 in Clovis.

Bullard’s Chase Case passes under pressure from Clovis High’s Jack Jarl, far right, Friday night, Sept. 18, 2026 in Clovis.

ERIC PAUL ZAMORA

ezamora@fresnobee.com

For the first time since 1997, high school football is returning to Valley Children’s Stadium, giving four Fresno Unified schools a chance to play on the same field where Fresno State competes.

The inaugural “Valley Showcase” will feature a Friday doubleheader, with Hoover facing Roosevelt at 5 p.m. and Bullard taking on Sunnyside at 8 p.m.

It’s an opportunity for players to create lasting memories on a big stage.

“It’s going to be exciting,” Fresno Unified executive officer of student engagement Armen Torigian said. “It’s been a lot of work, a lot of moving parts. Every little thing that we’re doing is well worth it.”

Bullard High athletic director Brandon Gilbert proposed the idea of holding high school football games at Valley Children’s Stadium.

Torigian took over, hoping to finalize a deal with Fresno State. That deal was finalized earlier this year.

One section of the stadium will be open for the games, with attendees seated on the east side.

Tickets are $11, and students from the participating schools will get in free with proof of ID.

Torigian said the hope is to continue holding Fresno Unified School District games at Fresno State. He hopes to give Edison and Fresno a chance to play at the stadium in 2027.

What coaches are saying

Hoover coach Joseph Pierro said he is excited for his players to have the opportunity to play at a Division I stadium.

“Very excited for our kids to be able to play in their hometown school’s stadium, a lifetime memory,” he said.

Bullard coach Louis Franklin was equally excited.

“It’s great being part of a district that is willing to get creative to make lifetime memories for these kids,” he said. “The kids grew up going to Fresno State games, and now they have an opportunity to play in the stadium they grew up attending on Saturdays every fall.”

Ricky McCoy played at Valley Children’s Stadium when it was known as Bulldog Stadium. He said he was surprised when he heard the teams would play there.

“I couldn’t believe it when they told me,” he said. “It’s an amazing experience for the kids and a very unique one for me to coach in the stadium where I once played.”

Sunnyside coach Gio Guzman said that despite a difficult season, his players are excited about the opportunity to play at Fresno State.

“We’ve talked about it all offseason and in-season,” he said. “The boys are not letting adversity get in their way. They are ready to compete on a big stage.”

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