Courtesy photo
By Emilie St. John
Contributing Writer
COMPTON — The Compton and Long Beach unified school districts announced they have partnered to enhance athletics programs in their respective school districts.
“The formation of the Hub City League marks a significant milestone for our student-athletes, schools and community,” said Compton Unified School District Superintendent Darin Brawley. “This new league will provide greater opportunities for competition, development and success while fostering a strong sense of pride and camaraderie among our teams.
“We are committed to ensuring that our student-athletes have the resources and support they need to excel both on and off the field. This is an exciting new chapter for CIF sports in Compton, and we look forward to seeing our teams thrive.”
The districts formed the SoCal Legacy Association, which includes the newly formed Hub City League and the Harry J. Moore League. The SoCal Legacy Association is designed to “build on each league’s commitment to competitive equity, strengthen athletic programs, and expand opportunities for student-athletes,” according to the districts in a joint press release.
“By joining forces, we’re committed to creating fair competition and a supportive environment where student-athletes can thrive,” said the districts in a statement. “Each district will continue to strengthen its own programs while working together to build greater competitive equity. Looking ahead, we will also invite and add additional schools that wish to be part of our association, broadening our community and enhancing the overall athletic experience.
“We look forward to a season of growth, opportunity, success and a brighter future for our athletic community. The association will roll out its official plan at the start of the 2026-27 season, with additional details to be shared with member schools.”
Compton school board President Micah Ali voiced his support of the newly created sports league for the betterment of district students.
“The current sports league structure did not make sense, Ali said. “Each of our Compton high schools were in separate leagues and rarely played each other.
“By bringing our teams together under the Hub City League, all our high schools will now be competing in the same league, which will strengthen the bonds within our community and foster a greater sense of pride,” Ali said. “In addition, we are creating exciting opportunities for our student-athletes to compete against their peers across the district, building camaraderie, school spirit, healthy competition and city-wide unity. And we are excited to work with Long Beach Unified School District on the new association that will elevate the leagues even further.”
Compton school board Vice President Satra Zurita supports the newly formed league as a way to carry the tradition of the numerous professional sports players who began their careers in Compton.
“Compton Unified has an amazing legacy of incredible athletes who have gone on to compete in the high levels of the NFL, NBA and other sports,” Zurita said. “This is an exciting new era for Compton Unified athletics.
“Having our high schools compete against each other on a weekly basis will create incredible cross-town rivalries, bringing more energy and excitement to every game. Our students, families and alumni will have more opportunities to come together, cheer for their schools, and celebrate the talent in our own backyard. This new league will not only increase school spirit but also help reignite a deep passion for sports across our community.”
Compton Unified’s newly formed Hub City League includes its four high schools: Centennial High School, Compton High School, Compton Early College High School and Dominguez High School.
Long Beach high schools that are part of the Moore League include Cabrillo, Jordan, Lakewood, Millikan, Poly and Wilson.
Emilie St. John is a freelance journalist covering the areas of Carson, Compton, Inglewood and Willowbrook. Send tips to her at emiliesaintjohn@gmail.com.
