Anaheim Stadium

Most notably, the Servite vs Mater Dei game played on October 28, 2016 at Angels Stadium was a game of significance for Coach Chris Burget and the “Team of the Decade.” As the crowds continue to grow the rivalries begin to heat up, but within this ongoing rivalry lies a story of two men that once faced each other on the field to then be shoulder to shoulder in the lineup. Rivalry is quite possibly the greatest tradition in sports. Fans, parents, students, administrators and alumni look forward to this compelling game each year.

Servite 1982 Football (Servite HOF Team of the Decade)

This year marks the 56th game between the two teams, and although Servite fell short to the top ranked team in the country, Mater Dei 58-16, the rivalry between the two has energized the atmosphere around high school football. For players, it’s a moment for them to be in the spotlight and participate in a game that’s always memorable no matter which team wins or loses. For the alumni, it’s a chance to see old friends and talk a little smack, all in good fun. The rivalry between the Friars and Monarchs has already been named the greatest in California by USA Today High School Sports and is now in the running for the greatest rivalry on the West Coast.

Chris Burget, Servite and Jim Birmingham, Mater Dei

During this year’s game, the 1982 Servite Football team was honored on the field at halftime and inducted into the Servite Hall of Fame as the “Team of the Decade.” Nearly 40 men showed up from all over the country to be a part of this iconic battle within the Trinity League – one of the toughest leagues for High School Football in Southern California and nation.

“Although todays athletes are bigger, stronger and faster the game hasn’t changed and the enthusiasm for the rivalry has just grown into one of the biggest on the West Coast, if not the nation.” – Chris Burget once laced up and walked out onto that field with his Servite Football family beside him to face Mater Dei. Ironically, thirty-three years later, he finds himself watching that same matchup next to one of his closest friends, Jim Birmingham, a Mater Dei alumni. Chris and Jim fought against each other in high school for the rivalry trophy, and both ended up as a Wildcat at the University of Arizona on a 5-year full ride football scholarship. The two became roommates and went as far as competing in the Sun Bowl together. The sportsmanship and respect within a rivalry is unmatched. The two were a part of Servite and Mater Dei Football history, along with many other former players. Their story goes to show that the rivalry between the two teams goes beyond what happens on that field. It is a true defining moment to be a part of such a compelling rivalry, and a heck of a game to watch each year. “Rivalry brings out the best and it was an honor to step back on the field.” – Chris Burget #ServiteFootball #MaterDeiFootball #RivalryWeek