Del Rio League hoops: Whittier makes a statement

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I love Mata
He always put me in when i wanted to go in
when i was hurt i play injured and played hard
i put everthing on the line to win a game for Pioneer
now on the other hand Saldana hated my guts he never wanted me to play and though i was a pathetic basketball player nad hated my dad as well
but always wanted the Videos that my dad would tape
Go Drill team!!!!!!!
Go Class Of 09!!!!

Suburbuan League Fan,

nicely put.

...and with that we say, "AMEN!"

LMU

Not about looks or shapes and sizes, just an analogy to stress that EVERYBODY has an opinion.

Wow, all I can say is WOW! That is an opinion. I agree with most of you have to say and parents and individuals who are not rooted in high school athletics are missing it. Coaches and programs are competing for kids all over the country leaving many smaller coaching programs, discouraged because they can’t compete fairly when their athletes are lured away by other programs. Sure CIF is doing their best to control this but it continues to happen all over. Your comment about “Now try to get me a staff that is not a parent, doesn’t freak out the kids and has a life that wants to coach with me all year round for more than one year. It’s a lot of work and I didn’t throw in fund raising and all the other stuff…” is correct. Our team has had a difficult time finding and retaining coaches for our lower level teams to help develop the younger kids to get them ready for varsity, as well as good assistants for the varsity team. We don’t always get the support from parents either who are also complaining about everything. I liked the NJB comment because that is what parents expect when their kid gets to varsity yet they still complain. They can’t understand that at the varsity level you want to win and in some schools you are expected to win. I assume that is the goal of assembling a varsity team. It is great that PHS has coaches that are willing to work with the kids; this is an awesome accomplishment for the program. To find coaches that are willing to work without pay is great. Sadly most programs can’t say that. You are always going to find exemptions out there. We pay our coaches a siphon and though they love the game I’m sure it helps in someway. Would they do it for free? Maybe, but a couple of our coaches are teachers working at the school. I think some of you are missing the just of what is being conveyed to you. Hopefully what Wow stated will light a fire under those who are reading this to help more.

WOW: I think The best coaches know and love the game, may even think about doing it for free (because the money a high school coach makes is not much) but most important they MOTIVATE young athletes to reach their potential as an athlete. Reaching your potential involves performing in the "clutch" (Crunch time)sometimes. They develop "teams", not a "group" of individuals.

I think this is an "inborn" trait that is hard to learn. You have it or you do not. They do not teach much of this at the sports "clinics"

Money? Coach for money? Some coaches must need the money! Why else would they stay in it so long, their teams never improving, nor reaching their potential. I am talking about 10 years or 15 years of their teams seldom reaching mediocrity.

Give someone else a chance. If you really care about the students you would. If the new coach does worse then it makes you look good. Are these coaches concerned someone else may improve the team? Ego? I think so.

Sports can really help players later in life, if they are taught correctly.

...uhm, Anonymous,

I'm actually below average short, fat and frighteningly ugly...that, has absolutely nothing to do with my Opinion or Coaching Resume! I'm assuming that was your attempt at hitting a sore spot or pushing a button! I'm sorry to disappoint, but I've been in this same body and face for too long now to worry about it. Besides, it doesn't seem to effect the rapport that I have with the many athletes I have coached, mentored or cheered from the stands for.

My looks, features or lack there of will never get in the way of what I do, and/or continue to do for kids!

Why so testy? so hostile? SO LOUD?

here's the funny thing-

Opinions are like faces...everybody's got one. some easy on the eyes and then some like yours...all over the place..but its yours and I'm sure someone out there loves it.

You know! I'm glad we had this talk. I love enlightening those who have probably NEVER really coached (except from the stands)

Yo WOW'NT...

Even though you're now back peddling and contradicting your very own statements, I'll play H-O-R-S-E with you!

YOUR REQUEST - Now try to get me a staff that is not a parent, doesn’t freak out the kids and has a life that wants to coach with me all year round for more than one year!

MY RESPONSE - COACH MATA, COACH COACH COOPER & COACH SONNY of PHS...and that includes all the fund raising and other stuff!

LMU...You hold on a minute, you may have misconstrued what I was trying to say. I was not saying that it is all about the money and I agree coaches should love to coach and teach. Now you got me going on another tangent. Yes you can only do so much with what you have! If La Serna with Lowe has 4 kids that play AAU since they were 13, NJB before that, 5 players that have played organized basketball and El Rancho has one or two that can maybe say that they played park league, then that is what you have and you deal with it. You could be a good coach and not beat this team at all. All you can do is make them competitive, teach them, make them a better person and pray that someone comes along that can make your team better next year. Good coaches sometimes go to better programs that will pay them more or have better talent. They can go to coach at the JC, 4 year college or better high school in a better location. But what is up with this holier than thou junk about money. Your telling me that you are going to find 100 or so coaches, 75 or so or even 50-25 or so in So Cal that are going to coach a high school basketball team for free and they will do it for several years (3-5). Yea right! I agree that you have to have a love for the game, coaching and teaching. In fact I am one of the FEW that would do it for free and have for several years until my kids got in the way. Why because I can afford to and I didn’t have a kid on the team. Now try to get me a staff that is not a parent, doesn’t freak out the kids and has a life that wants to coach with me all year round for more than one year. It’s a lot of work and I didn’t throw in fund raising and all the other stuff…Now about this year round thing, once the season is over most coaches are teachers and practices are done during 6th period, so here comes the teaching and getting paid part again. How about summer, well that is up to each coach how they want to handle that and that is where the love of the game, teaching and working with kids comes in. I’m around high school/college coaches a lot both in the Whittier area and outside so I see it. The people that are coaching our kids in this area are doing it for the right reasons with the exception of one or two. Outside the area it is a whole different game and I question them a lot. Leave the fantasy world behind.

YO Anonymous-

At no point did I mention the word "DEVELOPMENT"! I'm talking about being a Coach PERIOD! The original statement I was responding to "can only do so much with what they have"...therefore as a COACH (Varsity, as pointed out by naming Barber, Lowe & Mata), I SAY you SIGNED UP FOR THEE COACHING POSITION...SO YOU BETTER COACH! ...and let me repeat myself again, I have personally talked with some of Coach Lowe's players and was told "He's tough"...and I asked "Have you learned anything from him?" and the answer was always the same "Yeah...." Therefore, Coach Lowe is doing the JOB he APPLIED for!!!

And I'm not sure of which HS you referring to that is FORTUNATE enough to have 2 squads (travel and practice), but your team is only as good a your weakest player....

As for the CIF rules/regulations, the year round coaching was changed this past summer. And those UNDER PAID COACHES who HAVE TO DO WITH WHAT THEY'VE GOT, took full and complete advantage of that new ruling in order to better their program!

...you know, I'm glad you and I had this little talk! I enjoy enlightening those less inclined.

If I can be of further assistance, just ask!

LMU -

Development? Isnt' that what Frosh and JV are for? Development? By the time a kid gets to Varsity, he should have a keen and sound concept of the game, his abilities and role on the team. What is he doing to improve his game outside of his season? I only see a few kids at the gym every summer and those are the ones who make the team, in the papers and sometimes, go on to play college ball.

Isn't that why most programs (HS and college) have 2 sqauds (travel and practice)?

As for CIF rules..there are no more. Per CIF, coaches CAN coach all year round.

Pretty much see eye-to-eye on everything else

I want to tip my hat to the young men from Santa Fe who endured ALOT from the very beginning of this year, new coach & new players and MUCH, MUCH more. it was not easy for the players and as a fan i watched alot of heartbreak take place on the court but there were some players that NEVER gave up. I want those players to know, and they know who they r, you r the true MVP's because the lessons you learn from a not so winning team are greater than the one's you learn from winning. Those who vote for MVP need to also take a look at Santa Fe because I can guarantee you will find an MVP in that bunch.

Hey "Whittier" you sound very bitter about SP. I bet you know nothing about this program. And "Coach", I don't see SP listed on your names of schools that you've coached. So maybe you should keep your comments about programs you've been a part of. Because SP isn't one of them. Us here at SP are very proud of our program.

WOW....hold on a minute here!

Why is it that each and every time someone wants to defend a Coach and his program it's always..."can only do so much with what they have..." regardless of the talent, isn't THEE COACH supposed to be a tool for improving your game? If you have a kid who wants to play, who's committed and dedicated to your program but isn't that "All-Star" you were looking for, then you damn well better do the job you signed up for as THE COACH!

If this is about money, you're in the wrong game Buddy! This is High School! Most Coaches are either staff or walk-on with a regular job.

If a coach wants his program to improve, succeed or maintain some sort of structure...he's going to keep the game going all year round, well within CIF regulations of course!

...and I'm truly sorry, but not everyone is meant to coach...or should be for that matter! It's great if a coach has help and support, but some people just aren't cut out for working with kids! You may know the game, the "X" and "O's", but if you lack heart...people skills and respect and/or regard for young people, it's not gonna happen!

You think Coach Lowe came back for the money, or because he thought he had a Franchise Team? I think he came back for the love of the game, and he felt he could improve upon things that faltered upon his departure....I don't know, maybe I'm wrong! I've watched Lowe season after season, I just think he's
a Class Act. I've heard his kids (Bballers) say "He's tough"...and I ask "have you learned anything from him?" and the answer is always "Yeah..."

As for Coach Mata, this years staff was somewhat more composed and their dynamic seemed to work. Saldana was less animated and pretty much worked in the shadows of Mata and Cooper! COACH mentioned Saldana "trashes all the coaches"...BS, rumor or truth....either way this sort of thing is bad for any program! Coach Mata will avoid the hype and focus on is his boys. Mata's a decent guy, who loves the game as well!

Good Luck tomorrow night GENTS!!

Okay coach you have a lot of experience and a lot to say that should be respected. But please understand a couple of things about H.S. sports. There are very few H.S. sports teams that colleges recruit from directly anymore, so times have changed. I to felt the same way you did about the coaches after having my kids play, but I have come to the realization the H.S. coaches don’t get paid enough to deal with attitudes and teach their team sport all year round. Gone are the days where H.S. coaches would coach a basketball team year round; they simply can’t afford it. NJB is just that NJB and if today’s players don’t play for a club in soccer, water polo, baseball at times, basketball, and volleyball (I’m sure I’m missing one but these are the ones I have experience in ) the kids are surely not going to get discovered or seen playing against top competition. College coaches have a hard time seeing kids play in H.S. due to their own team schedule and only at times come out during CIF. They are also not going to get much better than they already are. Barber, Lowe, Mata and so on can only do so much with what they have and if the kids don’t go out of their school and work out and play in the off season they too are only going to do so much. I will top you coach, I’m around big H.S. programs and know how they work deep down and it is not pretty. You should be praising or at least giving credit to these Del Rio coaches at least in basketball for not recruiting kids from outside the area and pushing local kids out from playing basketball. If I were coaching today in H.S. again I would want to have assistants like Ron or anybody to help me out. Remember that they don’t always get paid either and if they do it doesn’t cover the time they spend HELPING the head coach. Have love for the game and respect those that work with our kids. They are a dying breed, and heck there are worst people out there than what you say we have.

Hey Coach?

Sounds like you've got things down pat...well, some what anyway....

You coming out of retirement any time soon? Sounds like you just may have something to offer.....

Curious as to why you took a direct hit at Saldana, I mean he's only a 3rd string assistant...if that?!?! "trashes all the coaches"....wow, what'd you hear?

sorry to upset you but definitely not a st. paul coach and would never be one.by choice.
i will say this,though,ive been shoulder to shoulder with some good coaches that knew the sport but had a hard time coping with players attitudes and that is where you will see where the better coaches excel.
players will follow those type of coaches versus coaches who know the sport but deceive their players.
a true coach,will help a player,before,during and after practice to insure that his players will strive to be decent students first,then good players.

Congrats to Coach Lowe and all the members of the boys' Basketball team. Hard work and determination will always get you going in the right direction.

Great Season, League Champs!!!!

10-0

wow saldana for mvp nooooooooooooooooooooo waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay

Wow you sound like a SP coach; you talk too much and can’t spell. Your finger pointing is classic SP. Remember talent never goes down the drain. Talent you take with you. So coach said ;you said way too much. Find another outlet.

Interesting thoughts...especially on Lowe. As a parent of one of the LS players, I do feel the need to shed a little light in regard to one of your comments. It may appear he has his kids playing basketball all year long but it is quite the contrary. he suggests they play/stay in shape by going to the gym and lifting. Many of the kids even play AAU to improve their game..not because they HAVE TO but because they CHOOSE TO. And it looks like its paid off.

I know many kids who have some joined and re-joined the team late november (after waterpolo) and early June (after Track and Volleyball). I have even seen him bring the remaining guys out to a venue to support their teammate. He has also been known to adjust practice times for players participating in a fall sport (which requires spring and summer practices and games).

Just an FYI

been a coach at whittier,cal and pioneer at 4 different sports and been around this league since 1980.
as of late,here is what i have observed about this years boys basketball:
cal.barber has never been a great fit for the condors.cal has always gotten all the n.j.b. players and bad coaching ruins that.same with all the soccer players from w.a.y.s. and a.y.s.o.
la serna-lowe should have good teams considering he strongly suggest his kids play nothing but basketball.plus he gets the other half of the n.j.b. players
el rancho-coach has no clue of what he is doing out there.they need to get coach kennedy out there.
whittier-varos is a hot head and is too worried about being cool with his players.he is on his way out so this year he could care less.
santa fe-coach is new with new players so it will be a rough year.
pioneer-mata has his players playing like robots.plus seems like he has new coachs every year.very disruptive to have his players having to learn new material every week..plus it doesnt help having a coach like ron saldana on the bench who trashes all coachs and makes himself out to be this great high school coach that has never been a head basketball varsity coach anywhere.mata needs to stop bringing in newbies and stick to his guns once and for all.
i have coached players from all parts of whittier at 5 sports and watched lots of talent go down the drain due t coachs that arent willing to go that extra step and they need to remember that they get paid to teach and care.

WOW,

we do agree that Arceo made the difference for Cal. But can you honestly say that Crosby made a difference? You said it yourself, "MVP should got to the player who made the most difference on his team." I say Saldana before Crosby, if anything. Bridge, also a good choice..but I think all around game goes to Arceo

Here is my argument if anyone cares to listen. I agree somewhat with both Hmm and Stateman and care to add a couple of things. Selecting an MVP might be difficult because of the great play of several individuals. Does L.S. have the talent overall and should that lessen anyone’s chances, or because Pio can’t get over the hump it seems and win games with 2 good scorers and several role player. How about Cal and their, good play from their cast and coaches regardless what people think. Santa Fe with their disappearing coach and young group, El Rancho’s (coach/mouth) inexperience and Whittier (what happened, I’m hurt…literally?). So to make it simple I think that MVP for league should go to the individual that has made the biggest difference on a team. Cal’s Arceo would be my number one candidate followed by Bridge and Crosby. Arceo has had some nice games in league like 12 pts (Pio) 2x, 25 (Whit), 12 (L.S.), 16 (S.F.). He only had one game under 10 (4 vs L.S.) and avg. over 14 pts per game in league, Crosby 14pts also and a ton of rebounds and Bridge had an excellent cast behind him to help him. Does it go to the player on the first place team? I’ll go over my 1st team selections next time, didn’t want to make it to long.

GOOD POINTS STATMAN! EITHER WAY, I THINK ITS GONNA BE INTERESTING. EVERY COACH IS GOING TO THINK HIS MAN IS #1

QUESTION- DOESN'T THE MVP ALLOW FOR ANOTHER SPOT ON THE TEAM?

i guess we can see a little east whittier bias over here on the blog because no way will la serna get three first team all leaguers.. okay yes they are champs but every game it was someone different there all good but not great and thats why there champs but i doubt they get that many first teamers

my second argument is perea over saldana? over crosby? over saucedo? NOOOOOOOOO way that should happen the coaches no better perea maybe second team plays the point well but doesnt do much else

i would have to say saldana or saucedo over him because they can be considered guards and they are similar players they score with the best they rebound they dish assists they block shots they are better all around players.

and i just dont see arceo as the mvp especially with cal finishing 3 or more games behind la serna

than again we still have 2 games left to prove things with 4 teams fighting for a playoff spot there are plent of chances to shine for the first team

lets say saucedo or saldana have two huge games and one of them makes the playoffs i gotta see one of them bumping perea and if santa fe misses the playoffs i gotta think the other jumps the marquez kid

theses two guys are just too valuable to there teams... than again maybe there is a little west side bias on this side but if we want really discuss all league both sides must be heard.. than again we dont vote not even murray votes, the coaches do!!!

All Del Rio League possibilities

MVP - Arceo (Cal)Even with Condor's looking to finish 2nd, Arceo is on the leaderboards for all areas (3 pt game, most points, offense, defense) Better all around player than Bridge. Kept his team improving

1st TEAM

Marquez (SF) helped turn SF around after a shakey season start Aggresive and collected

Bridge(LS)Agressive,big man abilities to dominate (but weak hands under the basket keep him out of my MVP vote)

Desowitz (LS) Kept LS in most games with his 3's. Seems to really get the whole "team" ball concept.

Valdes (LS) Calm, consistant and changes the game. Good all around game on both ends.

Perea (CAL) Worked well with Arceo to turn the tide and keep Cal in hunt for the title.

*Both Crosby and Saldana are fan favorites and have game but couldnt get team to follow. 2nd team or honorable mention at best.

Congrats to the Lancers and Coach Lowe for turning the league upside down this year! Congrats on ANOTHER championship.

SP-

Sorry! but no sympathy for a team who can pick and choose its players. You have no excues if you don't do well. Lancers and the others in the league get what thet get and have to make it work. Sorry! No love here!

Again, Congrats League Champs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

La Serna destroyed Cal in the second half to win the DRL championship....60-42. Standouts for all-league are Bridge, Desowitz, Valdes for LS, Arceo for Cal. Everyone else is under 500 in league...but standouts are Crosby, Saldana from Pioneer, Salcedo from El Rancho, and Marquez from Santa Fe. Congrats to the LS Boys and Coach Lowe!

St. Paul basketball is one of the most talented teams in the area. I know we will be the top story at the end of the season. It's time to win another CIF ring, even though we might have the tougher road then most.

Pioneer at "the Ranch" tonight.....

Let's go Titans, TOW MAN ENTER...ONE MAN LEAVE!!

Well the season is almost over now and we have 3 games left with the season pretty much wrapped up by La Serna. This being said, it would be interesting to hear who people think have been the stand out players so far in the league. It would be nice to keep personal comments about players out of it.

Even though Santa Fe lost to La Serna I gotta give it to them, they were a different team from the first round. Nice job, guys. You guys played your hearts out. Good luck with the rest of your season.

As for my boys, Let's go Lancers! 8-0 tommorow night,baby!

don,t you think the refs should take control of the game, if they don,t someone can get hurt, get into a fight or something like that. thats why there are refs for these games. thats why they get paid for doing there job on the field or court. if you guys don't want to take control of the game dont't ref next season

Hey "wow!!"...

i agree with u about Coach Elliot, of El Rancho!!
hes a real "jack***" he doesnt know anything about basketball and cant even coach!!!!
He is the only reason why the team really hasnt been that good under his coaching!!
El Rancho has good players, but Elliot just doesnt know how to coach!!!
He should consider resigning for the benefit of the program!!!

Yo Murray use should write a piece on high school refs
You go to many games and see what's out there on the court and
The baseball and football field. You should tell the fans what you think
of them. These refs get paid pretty good.

DRL SUPPORTER....

GREAT WE'LL AGREE to DISAGREE on certain things and KEEP THE KIDS FIRST ALWAYS!

....and that comment below about the Pioneer game wasn't my, but I was there....the game was EXTREMELY PHYSICAL and the REF's DID NOT TAKE CONTROL what-so-ever!

I am shocked in the way the ER coach conducted himself last night at the Cal vs. ER game.

I was sitting behind the ER bench and well there were some technical difficulties with the shot clock and what not. Perea of the Condors was inbounding. He inboundede the ball and the shot clock didnt start so the refs stopped play. Thats when the ER coach wanted some seconds to go off the shot clock. Perea in his defense was "no way we barely inbounded the ball". Thats when the ER coach was like "shut the f*** up and play. I thought you were a good kid". That was directed at Perea. Being the better person Perea didnt say anything and ignored him.

That wasnt the end of it. The ER coach at the end of the game shaked everyone's hand except Perea's.

Perhaps he was mad that his team was getting manhandled by the Condors but that was very unsportsman-like of him. Very disappointing.

Good job Condors! Everyone played rel well last night! Big game Friday night! Beat the Lancers!!

heart breaking lost for the titans. cardinals come back strong to win overtime. i have been a hihg school ref for many years. in this game the ref where really bad. it seem the they wanted the other team to win. i know we as ref miss calls now and then, but not as many tonight in this game. it make us look bad. i hope the two ref can sleep good tonight. i'm not taking anything away from the cardinals, but the refs suck!!!

YUP!

DRL SUPPORTER.....are you done?

Anonymous -

You speak in poorly inarticluate assumpstions and generalizations. You know nothing of me, my life, or accomplishments....Now THAT'S "amusing!" You assume I have had no impact on one's life and fail to COMPREHEND we ALL impact eachother's lives....some positively and some negatively.... its all cause and effect. The big wide world does extends past Mills and Hawes.

Perhaps your life's experiences are not as vast as mine and THAT is the beauty in life I was referring to and THAT is the point being made (thanks for solidifying it).....If YOU (as you so immaturely addressed this blogger) cannot grasp one's point of view, then there are people who YOU CAN grasp one from (cavemen come to mind.)

As a former high school coach who has had the opportunity to send athletes on to the collegiate field and as a current mentor to young, career driven individuals, you come accross many different people and learning styles. Just as you "amusingly" provide me with nothing more than grammatically incorrect banter, I know there is someone who just might open your mind a little. While our opinions differ, we both agree that the Kids come first and disagree on How they are effected. Its nice to know you are the end all be all to every kid, everywhere.

However! This blog is ultimately about the kids, for the kids and not simple minded folks who are upset that their kid rode the pine in years past. Get over it and teach your kid that life is full of people you like and dislike (too easy!) at school, on the job and so forth. The TRUE challenges and life lessons come from HOW we get through it. (a little too deep for YOU,I suspect.)

I am not a condor, nor do I have a vested interest in the program...just merely a supporter of the league, the kids and their journey through DRL basketball.

GO DRL!

saldana for mvp no way weak around the basket plays no defense sorry can't happen

DRL SUPPORTER,

I'm soooo CHILL!

I actually find you quite amusing, popping in and out of lives and if you can't help, someone else will. That's the furthest from beauty, but anyway...

My reading and comprehension skills are just fine, what you said was - "Fascinating things have been accomplished this year once all the "drama/issues" either quit or were removed from the floor....Kudos to the remaining players, currently ranked 2nd in DLR." I got the "Kudos" part, If you can R-E-A-D and COMPREHEND (that means understand) what was "I" MEANT
was....those "amazing miracles" were there all along, in the shadows, ignored! And if in fact as you say, there was "drama/issues" with the starting line-up...that would mean that the coach allowed that...RIGHT? I mean I was merely R-E-A-D-I-N-G what you said! It's obvious our opinions of reality are soooo very different, or maybe its out interpretation of.

Bottom line, I support each and every young adult (athlete) regardless of his/her choice(s). See while you're that "ONE who CAN'T do it for ANOTHER", I'm the "PLENTY of OTHERS, WHO CAN!"

I'll gladly take that deep breath you speak of, as the air over here is crisp and truly clean!

GO CAL!!

Dear Anonymous,

I suggest you take a deep breath,get over any bias you have against any particular coach (pretty obvious) and read the entry again. In no way was that entry inferring the current players were "AFTERTHOUGHTS". It was actually a COMPLIMENT to thier hard work and determination. It was an 'atta boy for their ability t overcome what appeared to be a rough start...are you following me?

The athletes who no longer take to the Condor's court or any other high school court,are not to be considered lepers or social pariah, but young adults who made a choice. If there is direction to be given, perhaps Coach Barber was not the best avenue for it to come from. But that's the beauty of life....we come in and out of eachother's lives to hopefully make a difference. And if one can't do it for another....there are plenty of others who can....maybe even a parent (what a novel concept!)

If you can R-E-A-D and COMPREHEND (that means understand) what was said, you would see we actually agree.....ITS ALL ABOUT THE KIDS AND THE WILL TO SUCCEED. I was merely discussing the fact that each and every team faces obstacles.

Chill Out!

Uhm, DRL SUPPORTER.....

What about Cal's Barber? Lost his DRL MVP and most of the starting talent due to uhhh...well, I'll let you fill in the gap...HOWEVER! Fascinating things have been accomplished this year once all the "drama/issues" either quit or were removed from the floor....Kudos to the remaining players, currently ranked 2nd in DRL.

????? WHAT THU'?????

What makes up the DRL that you profess your SUPPORT? The Athletes the Talent right? For whatever reason (GAP FILLED), these young men are no longer playing they still need our support and direction! So what, they wear a Scarlet Letter now...throw-away children!? ..and players whom previously road the bench(talented as well), are now recognized and are being praised??? THEY WHERE THERE ALL ALONG,JUST IGNORED. You've just made them an after thought!

There's TALENT at all the schools, it's a matter of how they're utilized!

Com'mon Rog... You're the Prep Sports Editor for the Whittier Daily News! Coach Mata may very well know how you feel about the job he's doing, but you're at full and complete liberty to PUBLICIZE it! Good, Bad or Ugly that's what you do best! That's why Prep Sports junkies read your blogs, pieces and anything else with your byline on it!

So if you and Coach Mata have this behind the scenes heartfelt rapport that's great...but don't cheat your followers!

When I read your response "To often people's evaluations are governed by personal agendas." I too said "WoW"! The same river runs both ways; we can go with the flow or swim against the stream. Bad habits are like a comfortable bed; easy to get into, but hard to get out of. So why don't you "WoW" us more often, or even in little doses!

Coach Mata, no worries....a Throne is only a decorated bench anyway! In reality, the only one that really matters are your boys!!

Enough about St. Mata. waa waa waa!! Absolutely! He AND his supporting staff have done a great job BUT, they haven't arrived...yet! Maybe Mr. Murray is saving the double page spread for your League Championship, which years ago was completely unforseeable. Now, defeinitely doable. While a complete and entire article may not have been devoted to the miracles of Mata and Co., there have been articles covering the KID'S games and articles that mentioned the obstacles Pioneer students face on all levels......Not just basketball. Also remember, Pioneer's team is not the only one with obstacles.

There are grades, family issues, high school social issues, teen age hormones and on and on that have the potential to affect ANY team. What about having to share an athlete with another coach DURING your season (EG: a certain little soccer superstar from LS?). What about Cal's Barber? Lost his DRL MVP and most of the starting talent due to uhhh...well, I'll let you fill in the gap...HOWEVER! Fascinating things have been accomplished this year once all the "drama/issues" either quit or were removed from the floor....Kudos to the remaining players, currently ranked 2nd in DLR.

Its all just a part of high school sports. Nothing more, nothing less.

An artist's (coach or athlete) work will only be as good as the utensils/tools/vessels (coach or athlete) lend themselves to be. Either way, its been an exciting and unimaginable year in the DLR League Basketball arena as intended 1st goes to 5th and 4th goes to 1st..Who woulda thunk it?

Finish strong! Finish hard! and Finish with class!

Hey Murray why don't you do a story on Pioneer's coach and how he does it every year without players. But he still wins games. Like I said before he might be the best coach without players in The Del Rio League.

Yo, PSU 1 Fan: It's not a matter of giving "CREDIT where CREDIT IS DUE." Coach Mata knows how I feel about the job he is doing. It's obvious to anyone who understands what high school athletics are all about. To often people's evaluations are governed by personal agendas.

Wow Mr. Murray you finaly gave CREDIT where CREDIT IS DUE. For the 1st time you gave Coach Mata CREDIT for the job he's doing to Pioneer!!!!!

Slam your not a ER fan,please keep your comments on st.paul. now the other DRL school La Serna will kill sp and knock them to the next world and they wont ever make it back. But that's why sp wont play La Serna.So keep playing the no talent teams.

hey murray!!!
why dont u ever cover an el rancho basketball game???
they are 3-3 in league better than the other teams u cover!! (for example whittier,pioneer)

Yo, Fan: Actually, Pioneer has a little more than 1,600 students, but your point is well taken. Clearly, they are the Del Rio League's smallest school. And no question about it, Mata is vastly underrated for his ability and underappreciated for his efforts.

cal over pioneer in round 2. way to step up condors

Pioneer has a very good coach over there. People have to remember that Pioneer only gets one or two kids who ever play basketball. So Coach Mata does a great job with the kids he gets. Now Cal had a great game plan by going box in one on that Saldana kid. Coach at Cal he good too.

Pioneer record playing Cal is 9-4 now. Pioneer will always play hard and never give up. And also remember they only have 1250 student at Pioneer. And other schools in the district have 2700 to 3500 students.

So stop giving the from Pioneer Coach a hard time, he might the best coach without players.

You hit it right on the head, LMU! From the stands to the floor, live right, conduct yourselves accordinly and HAVE FUN!

Good luck to all the teams going after the same high school dream!

LA SERNA PARENTS, thank you for reviewing the tapes and expressing your regard for "one coach, in particular"... Feel free to confer with him, IF ANYTHING WAS SAID!

Coach Mata did in fact approach the PHS Principal and VP of B&A at the half, while waling across the coach to join his team... The Asst. AD, along with the Girls Varsity Coaches and another staff member then sat directly behind the bench through the 2nd half! The issue was addressed!

As for the "GHETTO KID" references. Last year, just before the Boys Varsity game @ LSHS...a LS Staff member (whom was wearing a staff Shirt) had a verbal spat with 3 players from our Girls Varsity team, at which time she said - I QUOTE - "...aahhh you're nothing but a bunch of Ghetto Trash, you don't belong here..so go home!" I was standing there, in complete utter shock...I heard and seen it all! I immediately, told the PHS Girls to get up in the stands and I attempted to talk to you this women...but she POLITELY DISMISSED ME, with "...ahhhh shut up!" I reported the incident then as well as the day after. I also spoke to the PHS Girls BBall team, about conducting themselves like ladies at all times!

It would be sheer heaven if drama seekers could be detected prior to entering any such sporting event.

....it all boils down to one thing, the athletes! The very same individuals that we as the role model are supposed to be providing a healthy environment for. Some of us make every effort humanly possible to maintain that, while others barrel through like a bull in a china shop!

Second Half starts this week, so just LIVE RIGHT, enjoy ALL the ATHLETES, CONDUCT YOURSELF APPROPRIATELY..AND GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE!!

Two Man Enter, One Man Leave

We were at Friday night's game. While we can't speak for every parent, we can speak as individual Lancer Fans. We'll preface this entry with the fact that we did not hear EVERY WORD that came out of EVERY LANCER PARENT'S mouth, but were sitting near the Pioneer bench and did not hear any comments directed toward the coaches. In fact, we happen to be friends with one in particular, and would NEVER disrespect/discredit the wonderful things he has done for Pioneer's program and its kids over the years and would privately and tactfully address anybody that would.

What we DID hear, was regular banter directed towards the refs and some player's..no different than Pioneer chanting, "YOU SUCK" as La Serna players took to the free throw line. I think with all of the tenstion riding on the game (on both sides), it created hostility...some warranted and some not.

We also recorded the game and reviewed the tape...NADA! In addition, Administration was present from BOTH schools and if a spectator (parent or student) was out of hand, they should have been dealt with. Why didn't Coach Mata (or a delegate)notify Administration to rectify the problem/parent immedieately or at least,at half time or at a 1/4 break???? Simply playing devil's advocate.

On another note, to infer that La Serna and other schools refer to Pioneer players as "GHETTO KIDS", when not each and every person feels that way is insulting....Aren't La Serna Kids referred to as spoiled rich kids?....Sorry! We work for a living and have bills like everyone else. we both, went to a school, in "THE GHETTO" and never let anybody's opinion of our zip code affect our future and/or self respect. We encourage Pioneer kids and any other kid reading this blog entry, to do the same. Your life is what YOU make of it!

We agree with PSU 1, it is a game, meant for excitement, exercise and entertainment.

Let's get back to basics and enjoy some good ol' fashioned basketball. Let's try not to spoil it with our own hang-ups and insecurities. Play ball and most importantly, allow the players to have fun, again!!!

...yes, there were thunderous chants coming from the Titan stands...and I believe that's called "School Spirit". Now if you heard something "Questionable", something you felt inappropriate why'd you wait to get here to express it? Approach a Pioneer staff member and voice your opinion then and there.

As far as Coach Mata being verbally abused by a (La Serna) parent, that's way beyond questionable and is completely inappropriate. The gentleman berating Mata was forging a personal attack, at one point he said "Coach Mata, you're just as dirty as Varros...that's all you do is teach your kids to be dirty!" I was at the game, and at no time was there any situation that would be construed as "Dirty" from either side. And if you are at implying that anyone was doing anything even remotely close to Coach Lowe, you may want to rethink that. Because of all the coaches in this district Lowe is a CLASS ACT. If I heard anything being yelled or directed at Coach Lowe, I would have stopped it immediately!

Ironic...here you are defending a heckler gone over-board, yet you take a jab at Mikey Saldana - something about his performance being late, when nothing really mattered! WRONG, see the real deal is...MVP or NOT....MIKEY KEPT GOING, taking it to the boards, because to him the game wasn't over until the FINAL BUZZER! GET a GRIP!!

Oh and 1# TITAN FAN 4 LIFE!!!...sounds like you DO "BLEED GREEN"! Keep up the good work!!

This goes to La Serna Fan last Friday nights game was great, but I didn't see any Pionner fan do anything that was bad that Lancers Dad yell at Coach Mata!!

I have seen it 1st. hand. Two year go I Ref. La Seana & Cal wrestling match and the Lancers fans were Bad. Some of the Lancers fans were really bad. I think some moms & dads are living there high school years though there kids!!

Like I said it's a kids game not a moms or dads game.

Here is a side note I coach high school baseball about 15 years age and a game at La Serna fans from your school said really bad thing to a handcap boy that was are team manager. They were yelling get the dummy off the field. We all need look at are selfs in mirror and what we do or say are kids will follow are lead

That raises a question- WHAT CONSTITUTES A MOST VALUABLE PLAYER? Over the years, I have seen many DRL MVPs named in a variety of sports, who were just simply, "big guys" who scored a lot, when in relaity, were average on D and/or did not have the "all around game."

Is it the most points/goals/runs made? A'la Crosby? Bridge?
Is it the most assists and a handful of points?... (afterall, these are the playmakers)- A'la Perea?Salinas?
Is it the kid who is simply the all around player(assists, points,blocks,rebounds,etc.)- Saldana, Decowitz? Valdes?

Just wondering?

Because the coaches do the voting, what do they base it on? theory or reality?

First of all...you are correct and no one should be berating the Coaches or Players, but that was happening on both sides of the gym Friday night. There were plenty of "questionable" chants from the Pioneer side of the gym. Secondly, how can you have an MVP come from a losing team? Isn't the MVP supposed to also make his team better? La Serna has shut down all the "stars"...Arceo 4 pts, Salcedo 9 pts mostly in garbage time, Crosby 6 pts, Saldana had most of his at the end when the game was out of reach. La Serna goes 8 deep and 4 guys are almost averaging double figures...Diaz, Bridge, and Desowitz should receive consideration for MVP because they also play great defense and make their teamates better.

First , i wanted to start off by saying that Pioneer High is always the talk of the del rio league, but yet all the other schools are just as bad. Coach Mata is a great coach, who goes beyond the sport. He teaches the kids self-discipline, and many life lessons. The Titans are always judged as the "GHETTO KIDS", but i have been to many season games and the pioneer titan fans have the most pride in their school. All the fans have faith in their team. The coaching staff is really strong this year. With the awesome help of coach cooper, he has helped he team out a lot. Every time the opposing team steps foot on the court with the Titans, the team becomes a little cocky, and assumes their gonna win because their the "GHETTO KIDS". I have realized that the Titans are the ones with the biggest hearts, will, and desire. Sometimes people need to look beyond the sport, and look at the other things that matter. These players work as hard, or even harder then all Del Rio teams. So why are they being under estimated?? I think it's just because of the fact that their the "GHETTO KIDS". Yeah right!! ALL TITANS TAKE PRIDE IN WHAT THEY DO!!! THE COACHING STAFF IS AMAZING! & SO ARE THE PLAYERS!! GO TITANS!! SEE ALL YOU CRAZY FANS AT THE NEXT GAME,AGAINST CAL HIGH! WERE GONNA BEAT THEM, AAAAGGGGAAAIIINNNNNN! GOOD LUCK!

Great game tonight. A little over-aggressive (mainly due to ref's lack of calls) but overall, an exciting game. Pioneer just couldn't get it together. Saldana has a lot of heart. I will say that!

As for the league MVP wearing a green/black/white uniform, Sorry! Just didn't see it.

If its any consolation, the Pioneer band played great!

I tip my hat to the Lancers for coming in and beating the Titans at home. The Titans still hve 5 game to make the playoffs. Cal beat Santa Fe by 3. I guess on Thursday they need to come out and play there butt of if they want to make that playoff run!

Now to the Lancers Dad who seat behind the Titans bench that was yell at Coach Mata the whole night needs to check himself and become an adult and let the kids play the game. Coach Mata doesn't teach his kids to play dirty!! We all know there 1 team in league that likes to play like that. Lancers Dad if you have something to said to Coach Mata talk to him face to face like a MAN!!!

To all the haters remember it's a kids game not a adult game need to keep your mouth close!!!

It's game time for the Titans & Coach Mata. Can the Titans come out an show that they can play with the Lancers tonigth. Need to make freethrows and play good DEFENSE. Good luck tonight and show Titan Pride. And WIN that game tonigth

ok., let's "imagine" Pioneer pulls off an upset tomorrow and beats La Serna, Has anybody actually paid attention to the league records? Lancers are 4-0, while everyone else has lost once or in Pioneer's case, twice now. Do the math!

Great job Cal on your win over the Cardinals despite the horrible coaching of Barber. Maybe now with the emergence of the 1 of the bench warmers ( Shawn with 14 points against ERHS and WHS) he might see that it takes all 10 guys to make a team not just the Fave 5. I agree with dr. del rio on his lack of coaching ability but maybe now with a new assistant coach on the bench he might at least look good. Give the boys a chance, Barber and you might see they can all play in this league and make it very exciting. Saldana MVP? I don't think so.....Michael Arcero is the man. Go Condors!!!

I know when a team wins its all the kids! when the team loses its on the coaches. So Coach Mata know what he has to do next time when they Whittier and Santa Fe. Friday nites game is big, his Titans needs to play good DEFENSE if they want to beat La Serna. La Serna might be bigger but they cant stop THAT CROSBY kid inside. Mike Saldana is about due for a good game. Pioneer upsets La Serna

This goes out to Titans if you guys don't want to be the laughing stock of the league anymore you need make your freethrows and play the game. Friday is still a statement game for you and the school show pride and get the job done!!!!! For the coach need to get ready to come out play. Some coaches don't like to here this,but you guys need to get your team ready play good teams or bad teams!!!!

wow! congrats to the Titan's and their current CIF ranking. Makes for an even BETTER game on Friday. Its all pretty much on the line. CAN'T WAIT!

Great game for the Chiefs bad game for the Titans. Nice come back. Grade for game 1 D could play alot better. Needs to bring your A GAME IF YOU WANT TO WIN ON FRIDAY!!! Needs to make your FREETHROWS TO WIN!!!!

mike saldana mvp

saldana mvp

ok cif top 16 rankings, what does it mean?I know you have a point.

Div. IV AA

1.Bishop Montgomery
2.Serra
3.Inglewood
4.Ocean View
5.Bishop Amat
6.Northview
7.Tustin
8.Astacadero
9.San Luis Obispo
10.Lompoc
11.Centennial/Compton
12.Ontario Christian
13.St.Francis
14.Citrus Hill
15.Jserra
16.Pioneer

What happened to Whittier Last week? I really thought it might be their year, but not too sure with 2 losses. The friday night match-up between Pioneer and La Serna will definitely be a good game, with the league's leading scorer (Crosby) on the floor. But what else do they have? Saldana looks to be a little inconsistant this season. Friday night will determine who is at the top of the leaderboard. As of right now, looks like La Serna is at the top, with a 3-0 record.

Big test start at 6:30 at Santa Fe for the Titans & Coach Mata.
If they get pass the Chiefs it will be the making of a great game
on Friday night at home with the Lancers. If anyone wants to
watch a good high school basketball game come out watch Wednesday
at Santa Fe @ 6:30 & Friday at Pioneer @ 7:00

Good job Pioneer, give the rest hell, we know you can, and maybe win league.

The whittier girls are looking very impressive.

Ok win over the Ranch! Needs to play better next week
if they want to make a statement in the league. Great
timeout at the end of the game to set up Mikey Saldana
game winning 3 ball. Like I said big test next week Santa Fe & then La serna!!! DRL wide open to win.

To Negrites keep your head up & thanks for looking out for Coach Mata & the Titans. Hope to see you at Los Sanchez soon :)

o.k. So, now that all of the childish banter is over, CAN WE PLEASE TALK ABOUT SOME HOOPS? I agree with 'El Rancho.' Congrats to the Parrea kid. Its nice to see a story about a hoopster doing some good on and off the court. Played an aggressive game on Friday, but couldn't come up the win.

I ask why is it always a knucklehead from Cal Hi? I hope it's the same individual, could there be more than one. Because we surely don't want him or them to breed and multiply. Keep it about basketball Cal Hi. You, I know basketball; be happy for others.

Greg Perea nice article, congrats to the Perea family for raising such a well rounded kid. ALSO (barber is the worst coach in the history of the sport of basketball . Its a sad situation over there at cal, nobody suffers but the kids who need sports to help them thru their high school years.Again may I ask what qualifications must a hs coach have ? it must be zero.

Outstanding post LMU. I agree with you a 100% and bet most others do. In life there’s that imaginary line that most responsible people never cross. Good job

Mr. I Know Basketball,

...uhm, I'm a tad confused as to why there's always 1 or 2 knuckleheads that feel the need to "BASH" the Athlete. Personally call them out and make really off-handed comments! You've got a beef with the adults...HAVE AT IT! But to personally attack a player with derogatory statements is going overboard! If you're going to verbalize your immaturity, as least have the balls to use your real name.

You have issues with Mr. Saldana...then discuss that with him! GROW A BEARD!!! DON'T BELITTLE HIS SONS in a PUBLIC FORUM, OR ANYONE ELSES for THAT MATTER!!!

Everybody always has something to say, and that's the reason for the whole BLOG thing right....

But before your BLOG, at least know what you're talking about! Or research your sentence before your type....

LEAVE the KIDS ALONE!!!

WOW; I know basketball. You really dug deep for that one “you can’t handle the truth” The truth you’re (embarassing) it’s “embarrassing” please learn to spell first before you point fingers. Go Pioneer!!!!!!!!

dear mr i know basketball it is sad that an arrogant person like yourself is even allowed to post in this blog but i guess they must allow even the people who know nothing there time to gripe.

but here are some more stats for you pioneer's test scores have actually risen every year and they have yet to be taken over in fact just a few years ago whittier h.s. was taken over not pioneer... also a reason for low test scores is the fact that a lot of students at pioneer learned english as there second language... but the rest of the school does not reflect how great of a educater mata is mata can only worry about his team and every year all of his players are elgible in fact he has a good majority of players that are in college including the oldest saldana... at cal hi we see players making bad decisions getting bad grades and getting kicked out of school for off the court issues coach mata has taen control off his program and respect should be given him.. and just to let you know when pioneer went to the playoffs they actually went back to back years in 05 and 06 and even won a playoff game at home

once again you are proven wrong and nobody should believe anything you have to say.. and it not always all about sports mata is doing a good job sending hi players to college and preparing them for the future it doesnt matter what h.s. you attend its what you make out of your time there and mata has done a good job you just envy him because he is not at cal hi if he was at cal hi he would make the playoffs every year

all the kids at cal played organized basketball before they get to cal pioneers kids do not most are learning the basics at the high scghool levele that is where mata deserves the most props he must be doing something right if he is still there its sad to see ignorant people talk bad about a great coach

From someone who knows first hand. Cal Hi's problem will always be coaching. You have to run your team with whatever strenghts you have, you can't just do it with one set offense if you don't have the right players for it. Coach Barber is a nice man but coaching it terrible. Always has been. I know they won league last year but the talent in this league in the last 3 or 4 years is terrible, just the truth.

2004-2005 season
C.I.F. Wild Card Game
Pioneer 41 Cabrillo(Lompoc)60

2005-2006 season
C.I.F. Wild Card
Pioneer 53 Gladstone 32
C.I.F. First Round Game
Pioneer 55 Diamond Ranch 77

This was the last time that The Titans made play-offs and I know they made couple times, but cant find the info.

I belive under Coach Mata The Titans Basketball team is 1-6 in C.I.F. play-offs.

One more thing why BLAST the kids and Coach Mata, he does the best with the kids he gets.

Funny how since I Know Basketball's argument gets shut down with actual stats that he has to refer to the schools API and AYP scores- totally relevant being that this is a blog on basketball and not academics.
But hey, I do agree with you that any team can lose on any given day, and I guess its just fact that since 05' Cal has lost to Pioneer 6 times out of 9 of those given days. Thats 66.6% of the time they lost, and 33.3% they won, in case you didn't know. Got anymore excuses or mediocre comebacks?

Hey Statman:
As I guess you know now, Cal beat Pioneer last year in the second half of the season. Same as the year before too-so Pioneer doesn't own anything (pretty sure Santa Fe claims ownership to the stadium because Titans are soooo sorry!?)! Pioneer barely won by 2 pts while CAL beat them by at least 20 pts! C'mon!
It's a HUGE accomplishment for Pioneer. When was the last time they went into post-season play? Exactly! Any team can lose on any given day, so Cal lost to Pioneer last year--but they were League Champs and went the farthest in CIF Playoffs!

Hey Truth Please:
It is the TRUTH: district officials have considered what options they have regarding Pioneer's embarassing API and AYP scores before the State has to come in. Look at their test scores--they are the lowest in the district. To quote the famous line: "You can't handle the truth!!"

Sooo, how did Pioneer do against Whittier this week? Hahahaha

2004-2005 season
Pioneer 42 Cal 41 W
Pioneer 52 Cal 51 W

2005-2006 season
Pioneer 41 Cal 56 L
Pioneer 74 Cal 48 W

2006-2007 season
Pioneer 54 Cal 52 W
Pioneer 47 Cal 67 L

2007-2008 season
Pioneer 65 Cal 55 W
Pioneer 32 Cal 48 L

2008-2009 season
Pioneer 50 Cal 36 W
Pioneer Cal ?

Pioneer 6-3 when they play Cal

I Know Basketball:

I guess we know what your bias is towards Pioneer. Your obvious dislike for the Saldanas is laughable and enough to discredit any opinion you might have of towards them or the Titans. Whats even more laughable is that you are probably a grown man who is being openly critical of a high school and college kid as well as their father. Why such personal bitterness? Did one of the Saldana boys receive more playing time than a family member of yours and you are jealouse? Do you even know them personally? Just curious.

And blog contributor or writer, I happen to know it was someone at the Times that Coach Mata spoke to at length. Beside, it still made the L.A. Times, and you miss the point entirely-it was a game that 3 of this years returning starters were in as well as a good, exciting game that the boys hustled their butts off to win. Also, a lot of the bias (which you seem to be in no short supply of) towards the Titans is in fact due to the very reasons that you even mentioned yourself-"Pioneer is a substandard school that is close to being taken over by the State and therefore their extracurricular programs suffer." Your words, not mine. For this very reason a lot of people, including game officials as well as yourself, do not take the Titans seriously and do not view them as equals to any of the other teams in the league. Very sad indeed.
Next time, try responding to me when you have an objective and unbiased frame of mind.

dear del rio b ball fan

it is true pioneer has either split or swept cal under mata and never been swept by cal since mata has been there just ask barber himself

you must be a blind observer because pioneer always beats cal at least once even when they have no team.

09- pioneer wins 50-36 at cal

08- pioneer beats cal at cal 65-55
cal beats phs 48-32 at phs (SPLIT)
07- pioneer beats cal 54-52 at pioneer at the buzzer
cal beats pioneer 67-47 at cal (SPLIT)
06- cal wins 56-41 at cal
phs wins 74-48 at pioneer (Split)
05- pioneer wins 42-41 at home
pioneer wins 52-51 at cal (phs sweeps cal)
and it goes back further do the research you will see but in the last 5 years alone pioneer has beaten cal all 5 years

Pioneers record vs cal the last 9 games pioneer 6 wins 3 losses good job mata

hey statman:

cal did loose to pioneer, but then again, the past 2 years cal would loose to pioneer the first time around, and then would crush pioneer by 20 the second time around.

hey statman-you dont know what ur talking about- pioneer has not beaten calhi anywheres near 8 years in a row-i watch del rio bb games every year and cal has won most of the time against your beloved titans-but i will say coah mata is doing a good job with this years team and has a good chance to be league champs- but please try to get your facts straight-look it up-cal has won most of the time against pioneer

Who do you think you are; I know basketball? Pioneer is a substandard school & close to being taken over by the state, you need to be taking to the state hospital, you seem to know nothing about anything!!!! Excuses won’t help you, so man up Mr. knows nothing. You make up for your sin and don't worry about others.

well, after seeing yesterday's results, I guess I was right...it IS ANYBODY'S championship to win or lose. What happened to Pioneer? After Whittier's loss to LS, I had a feeling they would have something to prove. Did anybody see the game? WHA' HAPPEN?

So, I guess that leaves LS in 1st place on the leaderboards. I guess we'll see what else Coach Lowe and the Lancers have left in their bag of tricks. Its about to get interesting.

As for the girls, I have had a chance to see 3/5 teams....Whittier looks like the real deal. With their teamwork and aggressiveness, its a recipie for success!

hey mr i know basketball you obviously dont know basketball because pioneer has beaten cal hi every year for the last 8 years ask mr murray himself... so off year or not saldana and pioneer have beaten cal hi for let me count ya thats right 8 years but then again i guess cal must be in a down year once again... in unexcusable for cal to ever lose to pioneer considering the enrollment and pioneer is less than half of what cal has

accomplishment or not beating cal every year must feel good for pioneer :)maybe your just jealous because pioneer owns cal like always

Hey Mexicutioner:
Is that a blog contributor or a writer for the LA Times? EVERY team faces biased officiating and what school do you feel gets the coverage they think deserve??

Pioneer is a substandard school that is close to being taken over by the State and therefore, their extracurricular programs suffer as well, since they do not have the enrollment to produce decent athletes! Saldana chose to go there to be the big fish in a little pond--and actually he is paying for his brother's sins since RJ couldn't make it on his own at Cal and needed Coach Daddy to get playing time! Pioneer won on down year for Cal--not that big of an accomplishment!!

Hey 40 Year Old Local Fan:
Barber and his team won the League Championship last year, in large part because the team worked together and followed his game plans! Barber cannot be faulted because he lost this year's League MVP through a situation he had no part in. He was left right before the start of league without the players he worked with all summer and fall.

Tech 11 said it right, Pioneer's Mata was definately the best coach in the Cal game. Barber sucked years ago and continues his ways this year. Too bad Cal but you need to get some new blood in the coaching box. Cal had a great chance but 7 players do not make a team. Use your bench and quit trying to beat a dead horse, Barber. Sorry Cal Ballers.

PSU get real, I know its league but kind of a league? We'll smoke you!and anyone in your league. What you won a few games,pioneer cant match up. SWORDSMEN will run right over your team.

Anyone that has any doubt about the potential of Coach Mata, his staff or his players, obviously did not see or read about their double overtime win game against Anaheim in the 3rd place game of last seasons St. Anthony's Tournament. Fortunately, one writer for the L.A Times did:

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/varsitytimesinsider/2007/12/tough-love-spar.html

This game was one of many great displays of the talent that the members of this team, some of which have returned this season, possess as well as a testimony of to the coaching abilities of Mata and his staff. Hopefully this year the Titans will be able to overcome two major problems from last years season: biased officiating and a biased prep sports writer.

I have spent more than 8 years watching DRL bball and have to agree with PSU. This very well could be "their" year. Pioneer coaches have done a great job developing, mentoring and more importantly, holding their kids accountable for their actions....on AND off the court. I am not a Pioneer parent, but merely a fan of the game and apprecitative of good old fashioned "coaching" when I see it. After seeing the week one results and actually catching a league game, I am excited to see where the championship lands...Pretty much anybody's game to win and lose! Good Luck!ballers!

Hey just give the Titans credit where credit is due. For some reason people in the league and in the newspaper don't give the coaching staff and the players the credit they deserve. With 9 games to go it can be a great season for the Titans, and if they win the Del Rio league championship just give them CREDIT they DESERVE!!!!!!!

Good job coach Mata.Cal Has the good Players but pioneer has the better Coach.