SAN DIEGO, CA – August 29, 2025 — While most headlines focused on Lincoln High’s long-awaited stadium debut and the presence of NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Davis at the ribbon cutting, an off-the-field gesture by Lincoln Head Coach David Dunn quietly demonstrated what high school football is supposed to be about.
Just hours before kickoff, the Long Beach Poly Jackrabbits faced a logistical nightmare en route to their Week 1 showdown against defending state champion Lincoln High. One of their two buses—carrying the defense—was stopped by the California Highway Patrol for speeding. The other suffered a flat tire, causing a 2.5-hour delay that stranded the offensive unit without food, water, or any provisions in the scorching late summer heat.
Word of the situation reached Coach Dunn, who, instead of seeing an opportunity to gain a competitive edge, chose integrity. Out of his own pocket, the former NFL wide receiver and leader of the Hornets ordered a full spread of Jersey Mike’s sandwiches and drinks for the Poly team to ensure they were nourished and hydrated before taking the field. He also agreed to push the game’s 7:00 p.m. kickoff back nearly an hour to allow the Jackrabbits proper warmup and prep time.
It was a selfless move on what should have been Coach Dunn’s night—showcasing his 2024 state champion Hornets in a brand-new stadium in front of a packed house and cameras. Many coaches would’ve taken the advantage and run with it. Dunn chose class.
“He didn’t have to do it. Most wouldn’t,” said one observer on the sideline. “But that’s who David Dunn is—he’s a leader of men, not just football players.”
In an era where wins, rankings, and recruiting buzz often overshadow sportsmanship, Coach Dunn reminded the Southern California football community that respect and doing the right thing still matter.
On a night meant to celebrate a stadium, it was a sandwich that stole the show.
