The Bakersfield College game against Fresno City College has spent years in the making. The season opening game on Sept. 6 was the first meeting between the two teams in 23 years.
The game has been dubbed “Battle of the Valley” because of the proximity of the schools and a reputation for quality teams. Each year they will alternate season opening home games.
“They’re typically the best junior college teams in California.. It’s a great rivalry started up again,” said Jon Fredin, of Fresno, who was excited about the matchup. When BC and Fresno played each other in the past, BC lost only once.
“I think [the matchup] is good because when I get here I want to see a good game,” said Paula Hooker, a season ticket-holder and alumna.
It seems that most fans agree that they would come to the football games no matter what team BC plays. “I’m just here to watch our boys. I don’t care who they play,” said Terry Pritchard, a season ticket-holder.