Simi Valley football achieves historic win over Oaks Christian

WESTLAKE — Jim Benkert has never been so emotional about a football game.

The Simi Valley head coach addressed his team while wiping tears from his eyes after beating Oaks Christian, 28-23, for a share of the Marmonte League title. It was also the first time the Pioneers had beaten the Lions in program history.

“I don’t think anybody believed we could do this,” said Benkert, who coached Oaks Christian to a CIF championship in 2017. “It was how hard we prepared in all three phases...