"A few plays later, about 30 seconds left in the game, and we were in field goal range, which is exactly where we wanted to be", Griff said to Caydance. He fast forwarded the film until the camera settled on Will O'Arragan striding onto the field.

The camera moved to the stands where Will's boyfriend was watching with undisguised interest. Then back to the field. Rocco, who grew up playing soccer in Sicily, held the ball. Will kicked it through the goal posts.

Late afternoon California farmland sun shone on the electronic scoreboard. Final score: Huygens 34 - Sacramento Valley 10.

The team rushed onto the field.

Griff stopped the game film before the inevitable Gatorade shower.