Tanner Menning is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned  to cover Coronado for AZPreps.365.com

The Scottsdale Prep Spartans spoiled the Coronado Dons' Senior Night by shutting them out, 51-0, on Friday (Nov. 18).

Before the game, Coronado's seniors took pictures together with their families and teammates to celebrate said players' football careers at the program. 

Coronado athletic director Robert Villa had a message for his senior players before the game: “Win or lose, you have shown us perseverance, honor, sportsmanship, and integrity.”

Scottsdale Prep (7-1) dominated the ground game on a cold Friday night in Scottsdale, they marched down the field and capped off a strong opening drive with a 5-yard touchdown run. 

Coronado (1-7) was stopped quickly on their first drive, which led to a 55-yard punt return for a touchdown. On the next possession, Coronado quarterback Nicholas Vanalstine threw a pick-six, making the score 21-0 with five minutes left in the first quarter.

Coronado couldn't catch a break in the second quarter as the Dons fumbled the ball three times, leading to a safety and two TDs off those turnovers. The halftime score was 37-0.

Despite the rout, Coronado fans danced and sang to the halftime show and school's band performed their 2024 field show called “Rise.” Students and parents kept a good attitude as the second half approached.  

While Coronado failed to score points the rest of the game, they showed grit and improvement in the second half. 

Coronado’s defense bounced back only allowing 14 points in the second half.   

On the other side, behind senior running back J’andre Nance they were able to move the ball effectively, however, penalties kept them from being able to keep drives alive. 

The Coronado offense never found a consistent way to attack Scottsdale Prep, leading to a shoutout and a close on the Dons' home finale.

Coronado will travel to Arete Prep (4-4) next Friday (Oct. 25) at 7 p.m.