2008: Open season

High school football made its official return Friday in the Newport-Mesa area, and perhaps fittingly, the season opener featured two district teams.

All eyes were on Davidson Field at Newport Harbor High, where Corona del Mar and Costa Mesa clashed.

Coach Jason Hitchens made his debut with Corona del Mar, and what a debut it was.

The Sea Kings opened the Hitchens Era with a 55-3 victory over the Mustangs. Costa Mesa led, 3-0, but the Sea Kings responded in a big way.

Estancia had to wait a week to play in its new stadium.

The Eagles opened the season with a 35-13 loss on the road to Aquinas of San Bernardino.

Estancia will play its first game in Jim Scott Stadium Friday against Bolsa Grande.

High expectations have been brewing for Newport Harbor, but the Sailors will not begin to meet them until next week.

Harbor did not compete in Week Zero of the high school football season.

The Sailors instead prepped with a scrimmage against Notre Dame of Sherman Oaks, the team Harbor upset in the playoffs last year.

The teams had their scrimmage at Estancia’s new stadium Friday night.

Sage Hill School, with first-year coach Derek McIntyre, opens its season at 7 tonight, facing Fairmont Prep at Valley Christian in Cerritos.

For full coverage of Friday’s games, click here.

— Steve Virgen