Officials thanked the River City Tigers for “putting West Sacramento” on the map and handed off a proclamation of honor for their 2024 Championship, which included 11 wins and only one loss. Photo courtesy of River City Tigers co-owner Manny Ramirez

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The applause during Mayor Martha Guererro’s reading of the River City Tigers proclamation had the leader slowing down her words.

Calling the 11-wins-and-one-loss record impressive, Guerrero said that the football team “demonstrated exceptional athleticism, dedication and teamwork” in its winning season and 2024 California Football Conference Association (CFCA) championship.

 Co-owner and founder of the River City Tigers, Manny Ramirez accepts a city proclamation for the River City Tigers winning the California Football Conference Association title this year. Photo courtesy of the City of West Sacramento

One significant “whereas” was “shutting out the North Bay Rattlers 21-0,” said Guererro, gaining applause again.

“The River City Tigers’ defense was formidable, allowing only 77 points throughout the season and contributing significantly to their success,” the mayor added.

The loudest applause came at the names of standout players.

 Clad in an all-black uniforms, the River City Tigers walked away with the California Football Conference Association title this year. Photo courtesy of River City Tigers co-owner Manny Ramirez

“Such as quarterback Ace Boogie, who passed for 1,199 yards and 22 touchdowns, and running back Howard Warren, who rushed for 635 yards and scored nine touchdowns,” Mayor Guererro said.  

The mayor recognized Manny Ramirez’s partners and owners, Jose Villanueva and head coach Derrick Watkins, as well as the “instrumental” coaching staff fostering an environment of growth and achievement.

What is achievement without fans to share it with? The proclamation pointed out “the support and enthusiasm of team volunteers, fans, player’s families and community members who have played a vital role in the team’s success.”

 The River City Tigers are champions on and off the field, holding charitable community-wide events for the less fortunate. Photo courtesy of River City Tigers co-owner Manny Ramirez

The decree ended, noting River City Tigers’ significant contributions to the community through charitable events, including hosting a Youth Football Camp.  

Clad in black jerseys, the team sat behind Manny Ramirez, the team’s founder and co-owner, at the Aug. 7 meeting. With a big gold football to his left, Ramirez humbly spoke before the mayor and council proclamation, touting the team’s achievements in the California Football Conference Association, which partners amateur and semi-professional football players across the region.

Completing the team’s third year, Ramirez said, “Despite the obstacles and challenges we faced, we never waivered in our determination to achieve our goals after facing disappointment in the playoffs for two consecutive years.”

According to the co-owner, the motto of “accountability and teamwork” is behind the team’s success.

“We pushed each other to become better on and off the field,” Ramirez said.

Like the mayor, Ramirez’s short speech broke because of applause, causing a big smile on Ramirez, who said the team remains steadfast in its mission to positively impact the community.

“Through our various charity events such as our free youth football camp, turkey drive and Toys for Tots football game, we have been able to support and uplift those in need,” Ramirez said, giving thanks to his two biggest fans, his mother and fiancée, down to the water boy and concession stand volunteer.

“We definitely want to give a big shout-out to West Sacramento for opening their arms with a generous and courteous proclamation award,” Ramirez said. “Go Tigers.”

Councilwoman Norma Alcala was the first fan to shout out, touting the teams’ scores and for putting West Sacramento on the map.

“Eleven wins and one loss; that is incredible,” Alcala said, adding their team’s charity work is a win. “That means a lot to this community since we have a lot of folks that go without and you are helping, which makes all the difference.”

Councilwoman Verna Sulpizio-Hull said what is “phenomenal” is the 75-member team and entire volunteer crew.

“And on top of that, you have your family supporting you,” Sulpizio-Hull said, echoing Alcala’s sentiments about community charity. “That is above and beyond.”

Sulpizio-Hull ended saying she looks forward to another successful season in 2025.

Guererro closed the short ceremony, noting that one of their biggest fans “remembered sitting in the bleachers at River City High School Stadium” scoring those touchdowns, cheering you on and just being among you and your family members."

“You brought pride to West Sacramento with this incredible trophy,” the mayor said.

 Mayor Martha Guerero, Councilwoman Verna Sulpizio-Hull and Norma Alcala proudly pose with the River City Tigers and their family at the Aug. 7 meeting. Photo courtesy of the City of West Sacramento