STAR-NEWS COACH OF THE YEAR

TC Player:

Agreed.

I am surprised nobody has spoken up for Coach Mooney.
10-2 record. Back to Back RHL Champs (first team in RHL to do that since '99) after beating up Monrovia 41-24 at Monrovia when they were #1 (I don't think they really recovered as a team after that).

The La Salle loss early still hurts but doesn't look so bad now with them in the Finals.

It's not his fault we had to play Verb in round 2. If we finished second in league we would've been in that bracket and had a rematch with La Salle and might very well be in the fianls this week.

We probably still finish with a loss cause them Verb dudes are the real deal.

Anyway, as someone who played for the guy, he deserves some real consideration. Nobody does as much with their team year in and year out. This year was no different.

Our 2 losses are to the teams playing for our Division Championship this Sat. (Woulda loved a healthy shot at La Salle in the playoffs).

Coach is a real motivator and hard worker. Our scouting reports are awesome and they watch tons of film.

I know everyone is on La Salle's coach, but you gotta think about Mooney too.

Coach of the year you say?

See my TWO earlier posts. No matter what happens Saturday night, Gallagher is hands down the selection.

With that said, It would be great to have both Maranatha and La Salle represent Pasadena with 2 CIF Championships.

Hey Fred, trivia question. Has Pasadena ever had TWO CIF champions in the same year for football?

Coach Murphy has my vote! As stated before, Coach Murphy has made such a positive impact on the lives of the football team and the MHS community at large. He leads by example and sets high standards for his players and students. He has accomplished so much as a first year varsity coach.

In Wikipedia they give credit to the Greeks for first using cowbells as a musical instrument and was used in classical music.

The link to info on cowbells: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cowbell

From the CIF Playoff Handbook Regarding Mechanical Noisemakers: MECHANICAL NOISEMAKERS
No mechanical noisemakers (horns, bells, victory bells, sirens, fireworks, chimes, musical
instruments other than those in the band, etc.) will be permitted inside the stadium at any CIF-SS
football playoff game. Cheering devices such as wooden blocks, or other similar objects, are
prohibited; this also includes “cheer and/or thunder sticks�. Only uniformed cheerleaders, for
the purpose of directing and controlling rooting sections, shall use megaphones. The improper
use of any of the above-listed devices by supporters of a team would subject that team to
possible forfeiture of the contest.

Coach of the Year - Joel Murphy. Overcame lack of established winning football tradition. Overcame loss of several key players to injury including quarterback Alex Clash in second playoff game. Overcame the challenges of being a first year varsity head coach. Doing it all with class and sportsmanship.

Correction on my stats listed earlier regarding Coach Gallagher for Coach of the year. He didnt win league last year. Wouldn't you know it. Verbum Dei did. VD vs LS will be a dog fight. Either way Gallagher has earned it all the way...

Your right Finchamp, maybe we are a little too excited and when some of our parents show a lot of pride it may come across as arrogance then trailed with some well, silly commentary, yours truly included. I just ask that you try and understand that for 40 years we have never made it to a game of this stature. Please allow us a bit of grace if we fumble some words or swell a bit more than we should. I hope everyone in life gets a moment where they are just as proud and happy as we are, win or no win, we finally made it to the show.

Once again, either coach will be justified and deserving!

Ron Wolter

How did Maranatha move up a Division? Maranatha is in the same division as last year, right? Didn't you guys play Campbell Hall and Whittier Christian in league? They are in Division XIII, it was the Prep League that got bumped up a division which actually means going down a number to XII.

I think Murphy has done a terrific job but suggesting Pete Carroll could learn from him, combined with all the commentary from M-Fans about playing LaSalle,etc. shows all the exhuberance of a group that has never been there before.

Coach of the Year? No question…

I nominate Ealar Gallagher from La Salle for High School for The Coach of the Year. This is easy and here is why.

League Champions: Second League title in a row. This year La Salle lost the 1st five games (one of the toughest schedules in CIF) yet turned his team around and still won their league. During their winning streak, they beat:

1) An undefeated juggernaut of a team Temple City (ranked 1st) 21-14 after being behind 14-0 at the half.
2) Verbum Dei (now ranked 1st) 37-36, who Temple City Coach Mooney described as “the most dangerous team in the league.�
3) A dangerous and very talented Fillmore 20-6 in the 1st round of playoffs. La Salle was also down 6-0 by the end of the 1st quarter.
4) In the 2nd round of playoffs, the powerhouse Monrovia (ranked 2nd) 35-28 after being down 14-0 before the 1st half ended.
5) A strong and disciplined Bishop Diego 24-14 in the 3rd round of the playoffs after again being down by 7.

If you are a coach and are able to beat just one of those teams, there is great pride in knowing you beat one of the best. La Salle beat all five teams in one season and they did it many times coming from behind. Coach Gallagher sticks to a patient and meticulous game plan that he believes his player can execute. Wow, have they ever.

Some say it is the lights. Ah, it makes you wonder. Others say it is a “Dream Season.� It is hard to argue that with any La Salle fan. I say it is tremendous grit, hard work, preparation, training, and a commitment to excellence that Coach Gallagher and his staff (best staff in the area) that has made the difference. Coach Gallagher asks his players to be champions on and off the field. It is a core value of his football program. He honors academic achievement in his players and asks them to reach higher on and off the field. Did I mention the volunteer work at the beginning of the season EVERY football player is required to participate in?

All of these items I have listed are all reasons why Ealar Gallagher should win Coach of the Year. The problem is I left out a few of the most important ways we evaluate professionals. How would we be judged by our peers? From other coaches in the area Coach Gallagher is seen as a true gentleman, honest and forthright. His coaching staff also enjoys working for him and being around him. He is dedicated to the program, coaches, and players. How do the players feel about him? Have you seen a La Salle game after a win? He is loved by his players. He is seen as fair and even tempered. Most importantly, those players PLAY for him like no other high school team I have seen.

I am sure there are other great coaches to be nominated. I don’t want to take anything away from them or their successes. In my book, this is the easiest pick in some years. Ealar Gallager’s league titles, record against extremely difficult highly ranked teams, the ability to adjust and come from behind as well as how his peers see him all support him receiving the award. Coach Gallagher, you have my vote.

Both coaches mentioned are great people and make excellent roll models for our boys both on and off the playing field, the fact that Joel Murphy is only 25 years old - THAT is impressive. The ability of a coach to make adjustments during a game and to shift players to positions they have never played (but excelled in)- this is the mark of a leader that even Pete Carrol could learn from. Joel Murphy moved boys around and taught them they could rise to the challenges and overcome adversity. Coach Murphy, in his first year as a coach, pulled a team together, lead them not only into the CIF semi-finals but designed a winning game plan without
the luxury of having his stand out quarterback and free safety (season ending injury). I understand the Maranatha football team has never won a CIF game let alone a CIF title. To make the adjustments needed to win your way into the final contest without your starting quarterback and your starting safety, in your first year coaching, after moving up a division ...
all the while being an amazingly positive spiritual leader to your boys -

Recognizing this kind of dedication and ability is why we have Coach of the Year awards.

Thank you Coach Murphy.

Coach Murphy has my vote! As stated before, Coach Murphy has made such a positive impact on the lives of the football team and the MHS community at large. He leads by example and sets high standards for his players and students. He has accomplished so much as a first year varsity coach.

I cast my vote for Joel Murphy. His inspiration for these young men and his ability to lead by example is amazing. He is helping to create not only better athletes, but better men in the process.

I say Co-Coaches of The Year for Gallagher and Murphy. It makes the best sense. The entire year should be evaluated. Keeping a team focused enough to endure five losses and then eight wins aginst the best teams in the division. That's coaching!!!

again I will say, Coach Galagher and his entire staff deserve this one

crazyqube
everything you said applies to Coach Murphy - do you think the season Marantha has had has been a cake-walk - I don't think so!

Dear Minutemen, it is by far Coach Gallagher. Yes Coach Murphy has done a great job, but for La Salle to be in the playoffs is a tremendous feat, that has beat all the odds. When teams play La Salle they not only have to play a hard hitting, well disciplined team, but also a team that that has a coach that will find your kink in the armor and then just tear it open. The key to La Salle's great success has been its coaching, beating teams no one thought possible, yet doing it. This Friday by far will be their biggest challenege having to face Verb again, knowing that the odds are stacked against them in the rematch. However, the team knows that Gallagher and his staff will find the weakness and then exploit it. They have absolute confindence in victory, that is coaching! Coach Gallagher against ALL ODDS.

Well said High School Fan!

Perhaps Co-Coaches of the Year are in order for both Joel Murphy of Maranatha and Ealar Galagher of La Salle. Both deserve the recognition and credit for fine seasons.

I was the first to post on this thread with regard to Coach Murphy from Maranatha - and I am pleased to see all the great posts speaking to his leadership and abilities. One of the posts (Scott) refers to this as a solicitation of votes - I disagree - the decision rests with the sports writers - blogs are what they are - a place to air your views, show your support, or argue your point - all in good nature I hope - and the recent viciousness about vandalism, poor writing/coverage, slamming KIDS, etc. is at best ridiculous. That being said - I will again, as I have done in several posts on this thread - Cast my "vote" for Joel Murphy - if you were at the Maranatha game on Friday and heard his speech to the players and fans - you would have heard a truly classy, inspiring, and uplifting talk that will stay with those kids for years to come - sometimes it not about winning or losing - but the preparation and attitude that comes before the contest, and the behavior that follows it, that is the true mark of great coach.

For coach of the year you need to consider the whole year. Some teams have weak preseasons and strong leagues and some have strong preseasons and weak leagues. Look at the whole season. Joel Murphy is it.

Coach Murphy is not only an example of an inspiring coach, but an inspiring human being and teacher! Go Minutemen!!

Gallagher....

What u lookin at,
No - none of it matters. You should just end it.

I will do one better than Jim M. I predict UCLA 13 -9.

I'm changing my vote if it's not to late to Karl Dorrell. I know he is at UCLA but I'm switching from Wheeler to Dorrell.

I also think UCLA will beat USC in a defensive battle at the Rose Bowl.

I hope I'm right.

does any oft this matter

Absolutely without question the Coach of the Year is Joel Murphy!!! He has performed miracles in outstanding direction and skill level and brought the Minutemen to a level NEVER achieved in the history of Maranatha High School. What also sets him apart is that he is an exceptional role model as well which clearly sets him above your average coach on many different levels!!! He clearly is deserving of the honor!

Joel Murphy has shown through hard work, strong leadership and and great spirit that he is far beyond his years for a head coach. Regardless of the stats at the end, he deserves recognition for the performance of his players and the obvious strength of the program this year. Coach of the Year!

JOEL MURPHY- Hands down. For a first year varsity coach to come in with a mediocre program, make it to the championship with a 11-2 season, and gain the respect of everyone around him, thats unheard of. He didn't wait for 5 games into the season, he started from the very beginning, and he's sacrificed a lot to get those boys where they are now. He deserves it!

Gallagher!!!!

Pete s.,
Why are you refercing me - I didn't say you lost to CSDR??????

Pete s.,
Why are you refercing me - I didn't say you lost to CSDR??????

JOEL MURPHY!!!!!!!
Not only is he a class act on and off the field. He has turned a football program arounf in his first year as head coach. He made our boys believe and we believe in him.

Scott,
That's right why let knowledge fans decide on this - let's get some egghead scientist (they have a history of being great ballers - NOT), or know-nothing administrators or bureaucrats (they have done such a great job with our schools and the government - NOT) or computers (just look at the magnificient BCS) decide. What is the impetus for this lame posting?

I'm not changing my vote. It still goes to La Canada's Coach Rich Wheeler because I feel he had the biggest impact on his team by far as a head coach. Still waiting for the second vote to be cast. Come on guys don't leave me hanging.

Think about it? Biggest impact? Hands down it's Wheeler.

W.A.R.

Hey hey hey' lets take it easy on the CSDR and I think we need to careful and a bit more respectful in regards to our comments toward the School for the Deaf. Maybe we did lose to them, I really dont know (although I thought we won in a blow out of such proportions I asked my students about grace and mercy).

The subject here is coaching and Murphy is a tremendously talented young man with a heart for his students and player. Every year instead of enjoying a restful Spring Break he leads students in Mission Trip to Mexico, he lives by example is everything I would dream of in a coach. I'm not soliciting votes, just giving my .02 cents since this blog is titled "Coach of the Year". If you havent heard yet, we just played and won against a very talented Brentwood team (classy team and fans by the way). We are going to the finals, whatever doubts people had about our team are answered by our record. Enough said.

Now lets all take deep breaths and relax.

Is a public blog really the appropriate place to solicit votes for such an award? If your weekly polls are any indicator, this may not be a very unbiased or fair representation of sentiment and opinion in the area. Maybe because I'm a scientist and I just think a certain way, but I would have a hard time calling any "data" taken here as very reliable...

Murphy is not only a fabulous first year head coach, he has totally turned the Maranatha Football program around. He has improved the players skills and motivation and been a rock solid model of character.

Matchups you say? It should be a very even balll game tonight at Lancer field. B. Diego tries to lull you to sleep with a ton of counter and lead out of different sets before mixing in some play action (they have a pretty good and athletic QB) or giving some kind of gadget play. As Coach Lew Stueck would call it (and this is for you NY) a "dick'em".

I think the Lancers should have the uppper hand as long as they play thier game; hit hard, tackle well, run the ball, stay away from mistakes and turnovers. B. Diego is not particularly deep or athletic or strong up front. However, La Salle will need to play just as hard as they played last week to win.

As far as the "Aviary Bowl" goes (V.D. Eagles v. Duarte Falcons). Duarte better hang tough, contain-contain-contain, and hopefully have more big plays than they do to have a chance.

CORRECTION!
Maranatha never lost to CSDR. The score was 50-0. Come on OrangeandBlue. While CSDR isn't the greatest team, let's not tear down what Coach Murphy has done to feel better about Coach Gallager starting 0-5.

New York, you know how Cubans roll! What can I tell you, say hello to my little friend!!!

By Fred's rules on Coach of the Year Gallagher and Murphy are the only two real candidates. My vote is for Ealar Gallagher! His turning the season around and getting to the semi's and beating TC, Verb and M-Town while doing doing it , not to mention the piss happy Flash in the Halcon Pan from Fillmore is a thing of beauty!

Ffirst the ban on cigar smoking, then the ban on playing cowbells, communist sympathizers...What will be next, banning elbows to the head???? The shame of it all!!!

My initial fascination was just being surprised that it was allowed in the first place. As I mentioned, Monrovia was told a few years back that we could not have noise making devices. In fact, I thought it was specifically during CIF play.

My fascination has been fueld by your persistence as well as the allegation that Monrovia fans called complaining about a rule violation. During my tenure, Monrovia was never first to file a complaint and it always backfired. Furthermore, perhaps several residents who live behind the visitors stands called MHS to complain and the Monrovia administration had to relay the complaints.

Bottom line: Let's stop talking cowbells and start talking matchups. What's the scouting report this week?

A. Tito Puente made the cowbell a musical instrument and I've got proof on wax.

B. Personal foul or not, it was called. I don't know why. But at least a ref made the call, not a bunch of fans who called in to complain.

C. Your perserverance in pursuing this subject with such seriousness intrigues me at the least. All I know is this; If some dude on the Monrovia side had brought out a sound system, tympani, jet engine, WHATEVER-I would not be on the horn the next day bitching.

D. Luckily for the neighbors the Cowbell Artiste is the spotter for "Golden Throat" Wickhem, the best announcer in HS football.

Thanks for the well wishes and Go Lancers!!

Oh and shut up about the cowbell! Maybe if Monrovia had some fans with emotion they would play better.
im out

I have to agree with orangeandblue.Maranatha lost to a school for the def remember???
Its all about the turn around Coach Elar Galager has done with this team.
The lancers started off 0-5 and seemed over matched aginst Temple City. But we all know the result and look what has happened. 7 strait baby!!
Along with coaches Mike Difiori and Antione Peterson this La Salle team looks unbeatabal!
Go Lancers

88

It's subjective as to whether or not a personal foul occurred. The guy was in bounds and not headed out of bounds, and Potts did not hit that guy anywhere near his head, and Potts towers over the guy so it would have been easier to hit at head level, but he hid him in the chest area.

However, we know that the rule book does not allow the noise making devices. Wait until you guys start playing more Friday night games at La Salle. You think the neighbors fuss over the lights? You won't be allowed to have the cowbells at night there either.

Comparing a cowbell to a musical instrument? You wanna talk about enough said?

Good luck this week, by the way. I doubt the lack of cowbell will effect your victory.

Just so everybody knows, La Salle-Bishop Diego on Friday night at La Salle High School STARTING AT 7 PM.
I don't care if we can't bring cowbells. How about a real cow? That is not an artificial noisemaking device! If Texas can bring a Longhorn, and Colorado a Buffalo, go ahead, Cubano, bring a big fat cow.

Another View.
Before making these selections, I always consult with several of the area's coaches, I look at the all league selections, the stats, talk it over with Campa and a few of our stringers, and this year, pay attention to what's being said on the blog.
I know there is a lot of shouting and nomination of favorites, but there are enough quality comments to help out.

No NY, the only thing I am sure of is this. After speaking with the A.D. (and knowing this particular cowbell artist personally) I was told to relay the message that the cowbell will now be flagged because it was brought to the attention of LS and CIF by Monrovia fans throughout this week.

By the way, comparing playing an instrument in the stands to a personal foul? no comment.

I suppose it is a rule right along with not being able to knock the crap out of a guy who picks up a fumble?

Maybe next game everybody should bring their starter pistols, mega-phones and every other type of noise-making device?

Are you sure the referees did not say anything about the cowbells? How about the people you sit next to? When I'm at a football game, I enjoy cheering for my team, but I don't need an artificial device to do it, and I hate when somebody next to me has some gimmick like that.

Minuteman Fan

Code Red--I like it! I tried to get the RHP guys to dub our field the "black hole" but we got resistance from Raider-haters and even Stephen Hawking from Caltech on a technicality.

It's not just cowbells--it is noise-making objects. I have seen the CIF memo and it is loosely followed however it does ban such items. Like a missing belt, officials can flag it but would likely only do it after a warning and continual provocation. The 12 man RH Prep band was warned not to play when the opposing team was calling signals on offense. I don't like it and you'll rarely find it at any other level.

Maranatha was told no drums at the games - we don't have a band - just Code Red spirit group and a small drum line - what I don't get is why a high school band can play and not cow bells and drums? Any thoughts?

I call the banning of cow bells discriminitation!!!traxback do you know a good litigator? Nothing but communists....CIF, KGB, they all work for Putin and Castro!!!

Just for whiners New York. I know it's in the rule book, but it's no enforced unless complaints are received. In this case, complaints from a team that is no longer playing.

Fred/Bloggers,
What do you think about getting coaches opinions on this issue. Let's be real, we're fans and this becomes a shouting contest without some professional insight from the guys involved. Fred, did you read my earlier post on this or have you been to busy deleting trax rants?

88,

I'm telling you, I think there is a legitimate sanction against cowbells. A few years ago, Monrovia was regulated for that.

New Guy, welcome to the blog. Unfortunately you will hear no cowbell on friday night at La Salle. To many Monrovia fans have complained this week to LS's A.D. Boo-friggin-hoo

Coach Murphy has been blessed with a gift for inspiring his players, lifting them up, and making them believe in themselves far beyond any coach my family has ever seen. It's not just about his impressive record, it's his coaching off the field, for raising up leaders on the football team. Coach Murphy's integrity, on and off the field, coupled with his winning record, make him the clear choice for Coach of the Year.

It's only fun if you can stir the pot a little bit New York. W.A.R.

Coach Murphy hands downs.
He has my vote.
Wait I said this earlier.
Can I vote twice?
Oh and
GO MINUTEMEN!!!!!!!!

Whoever wins coach of the year, it should be noted that several coaches are deserving. It's a shame we only can pick one.

Jim M - you put it well - a coach should impact his players all year - and that is why I continue to mention Joel Murphy - for all the reasons I have previously written about - Joel is such a force at Maranatha - wether it be on the playing field, in the classroom, or just hanging out with his players, students, and fans - he is the example you want in your child's life.

I'm sorry fellow bloggers. I thought coach of the year was for the coach who impacted his team the most during the year.

la salle plays b. diego @ la salle (sierra madre blvd and michillinda).

lshs beat verb 37-36 it was a great game.

wish i could be there friday damn midterms!

Someone, I know about those games and scores from the coverage provided. I just thought a local follower of CRL teams could give the scoop on the others and save me the time searching. Relax.

I was at that Verb TC game. La Salle must be one helluva team to have taken down those two squads (curious on the scores of those games too). Can't wait to see them this week...location of the game anyone? Can't wait to hear that cowbell!

That Verb team is as big and fast of any of the Nor Cal teams I've been watching the past few years (minus De La Salle). Looks like a real shoot out is going down with them and Duarte.

TC Folks, I can see why your group had success against local teams this year...they seemed overmatched vs. Verb but they never quit and they seemed well coached and well disciplined. That Broadnacks (SP?) kid is legit.

Like to hear more about this Minuteman group.

Love high school ball and you guys have a good thing going down hear.

Fred,
At the end of the day, we are all just parents, boosters, fans, and alums pounding our chests for our teams. I'd like to see the area coaches involved in the selection process somehow. Perhaps you have them nominate and provide supporting statements. I think most of the coaches in our area are stand up guys and after all, they are the experts in this particular field despite what we might feel about their decisions on game night (I was next to Mooney in the stands when SM was playing Monrovia and I overheard him tell one of his toadies "The farther away from the sideline I get, the smarter I am"-for once I agree with him!) The coaches work with and against each other and I think their opinion is far more relevant than mine. What do you think of the idea Fred?

How about Coach Mulligan for grooming the Player of the Year, Peterson...and for trying to start a little trouble on this particular blog.

New Guy,
Well Verbum Dei just beat #1 TC by 40, and is now in the semi's along with La Salle from the CRL, who just beat #2 Monrovia. I'd say that, that makes the league strong.

I have to side with New York. I am all for a feel good story like La Salle but I just think it has more to do with the kids saying enough is enough versus some miraculous coaching job. I see what oso and skeptic mean, the same guy couldn't get them going for 5 weeks and he had this stud of a lineman wasting away at TE. I'm not saying he shouldn't be commended for keeping it afloat and it's admirable that the kids didn't quit on him, but how can you gloss over the fact that the team dropped five straight after having an entire spring and summer to prepare? In addition, they lost these games having no major players out for grades or injuries (commendable for sure) from what I've read on this site. Just my two cents but don't rush to judgement based off one hot roll and lots of local support. Keep it real and look over all of these guys start to finish and top to bottom. It's about much more than recent wins.

Thanks for the history GB. Sounds like a solid grouping. I am well aware of the RHL teams from reading this site and the local paper. Sounds like many of the CRL teams are outside of the coverage area. How did the other teams in the league do this year? Im trying to guage how competitive the league is top to bottom to see if La Salle has been adequately tested for the next two big ones.

One thing to add about the comment from GoldenBear regarding the Camino Real league -

There may be a heated rivalry between La Salle and Mary Star, but Mary Star has the BEST food anywhere in high school football. Italian sausage sandwiches, and swordfish sandwiches (the swordfish were probably from the fish market in San Pedro). This is the one road game of La Salle I look forward too. Another reason to enjoy HS football (the carne asada tacos at Cantwell were good also!!)

Joel Murphy- hands down!!!!

Coach Murphy is a leader on and off the field, he has sacrificed so much and gets so little credit. He's given his everything since spring ball in May, not halfway into the season.

Fred,
I completely think that Galager is deserving of a lot of recognition, perhaps it's Coach of the Year or perhaps Recovery of the Year.

I can't beleive you are not even mentioning Maranatha's coach. You spoke about Howard at Muir, another solid choice, but what about Murphy?

I do think that league and pre-season are the most important games, to an extent. However, Galager will be Coach of Year Camino League (appropriatley for league play) if La Salle wins CIF Galager will be Coach of Year Mid-Valley (for CIF play). So, why does coach of the year, this year, virtually ignore an 0-5 start, losing to two local teams with overlapping boundaries?

I'll say the coach at la salle losing five straight and going on a run, whether or not the outcome of the game, I wouldnt put garrison up for the award only because its his staff that really should be considered

You have just got to be kidding me. Am I still the only vote for Rich Wheeler at La Canada for coach of the year?

New Guy, here's a brief history of the Camino Real League:

for years there was 5 teams: La Salle, MaryStar, Verbum Dei, St. Monica's, and St. Anthony's.

The Current CRL has switched out st. anthony's for a more competitive cantwell team (who was heavily favored this year againts la salle).

The League has always been competitive (in my 4 years at la salle, and from stories past down). In 1999 St. Monica's won a CIF championship, and back in my sophmore year (2003 season) they had the best passing offense in the division (back then it was division 11, w/o the rhl)

The biggest rivalry has been between La Salle and Marystar, with heated games and there's some great stories about that rivalry (the cubans would know more than me).

Verbum Dei was 1in the league until the year before my freshman year (2001) when they were forced to cancel sports to save the fiscal needs of the school. They came back in 2004, spirited and heated as ever, winning the league title in 2005, and tying for it in 2004.

St. anthony's was always beaten up on, back in the 60's though, they were apparently a powerhouse, but demographics changed.

Hope that answers your question.

food for thought
Nice ideas about the coach of the year. Problem with your reasoning is that Ken Drain at RH Prep would probably get the award every year because he only has 24 kids on his team (the other 20 boys play JV)and RH Prep doesn't accept transfers.

La Salle Faithful, I know you're pumped and in places unknown, but how can you consider Gallagher for coach of the year if it took him 5 weeks to get the Division and Area's toughest/best lineman (#70) out of the TE slot and into a place where he clearly belongs on the oline? Isn't good coaching getting people in the right spots? Not sure Pete Carroll would get props for having Dwayne Jarret kick field goals for 5 weeks before figuring out he's a good wr! Best of luck on the great run you're having...Jimenez is awesome.

Fred, Im new to the area and I'm loving the blog stuff. First time jumpin in. This La Salle frenzy is wild. I'm loving the banter. I'm conflicted in my evaluation of the Lancers though. Success in league is important, especially if the league is competitive top to bottom. Looking closer at the CRL, outside of Verb/La Salle are they any good? You cover the area what say you?

Lancer faithful are right to be proud of the roll the team is on. With regards to coach of the year, I think Fred's framing of the argument discounts many deserving area coches from consideration. I believe most of these area coaches all work extremely hard and some are more fortunate to have greater access to talent than others. There are some local schools that did not win league or go deep in the playoffs but their coaches sure maximized the potential of the teams given the raw materials they had to work with. Finally, I agree with oso, let's not take the "year" out of coach of the year.

What, where, when is Colony High School?

I think Couch A. Rice from Colony High School should be Coach of the Year! Coach Rice 1st year/season at Colony had an Un-Defeated Record. He took a school that had a record of being beat 50-7 and made them a winning team, Proud to be a Titan! We only had a few games this year where the scores was close, then the game came down to who was the best Coach, who called the best plays, who took the risk, who didn’t allow their boys to stumble and fall? That would be Coach Rice. In my book Coach Rice is an ALL STAR!

I think Couch A. Rice from Colony High School should be Coach of the Year! Coach Rice 1st year/season at Colony had an Un-Defeated Record. He took a school that had a record of being beat 50-7 and made them a winning team, Proud to be a Titan! We only had a few games this year where the scores was close, then the game came down to who was the best Coach, who called the best plays, who took the risk, who didn’t allow their boys to stumble and fall? That would be Coach Rice. In my book Coach Rice is an ALL STAR!

Oso, please read the criteria being considered for this award before you talk.

League and Playoff performance are the two most heavily weighted aspects, as they should be in high school football.

I totally agree that this is the year for coach Galagher and his staff to be recognized for the job well done.

I think its pretty obvious to make Ealar Gallagher the Coach of the Year Choice. He has done some great things over at La Salle and his work ought to be recognized.

With that being said, I can't say enough good things about Muir Coach Ken Howard. What a class act. The article out today with him standing up for the program and being ACCOUNTABLE for not only his actions but the actions of the whole team and for academics proves not only is he a good football mind but also a standout citizen and a role model for those players. I fully agree that the La Salle coach is the best football coach in the area but Ken Howard is also a first class coach. I don't know exactly where this blog entry is comming from or what I want to accomplish except after reading the blurb this morning and recollecting the past thoughts and mental notes that I have kept on Ken Howard, I was impressed to say the least. Coach Howard, keep up the good work, Muir players, you guys have a first rate coach helping you guys.

If Gallagher is to be creditied for the terrific run La Salle is currently on, must he also bear porportional responsibility for the disasterous start?

My vote is for San Marino coach - D. R. Moreland - his team improved 400% in wins - 1-9 to 5-5 and lost a few close ones - always has his team ready with a great game plan and has nowhere near the talent of anyone else being considered. Oh yeah he also beat mighty La Salle.

Prep FB realist - We folks from Maranatha can tout Murphy all we want - the fact still remains that he has led the team into the semi's for the first time in school history - that he learned from the losses and in turn taught the players about being gracious in defeat - and working harder the next game - which they have obviously done. A great coach (Murphy) is well rounded - and a leader on and off the field - he enforces the academic requirements, even when they may hurt the team, he communicates his support for those around him - asst. coaches, cheerleaders, fans, parents and faculty, his interest in and support of the school goes well beyond the playing field. He is an integral part of Maranatha, and the school is better for him - We are proud to say he is our Coach!!! - Go Minutemen!

New York, I didn't say that how you do in league and in the playoffs are the only criteria, but the most important, wouldn't you agree??

First Bond's mother - now Wheeler's son - Is there something in the water up there in La Canada - maybe there is some contamination from JPL seeping into the water supply that is making those La Canadians crazy.

Enough about Murphy already. Maranatha has had an easy schedule so far, including the playoffs. They've played (3) good teams this year- Brentwood, Whittier Christian and Rio Hondo Prep- and lost to two of them. They're done after this Friday. My vote goes to the combination of Ealer Gallegher/Mike DiFiori.

Oh yea... Wheeler... is it too late to change my vote?

My vote goes to Rich Wheeler.

gallagher and staff

coach gallagher, peterson, di fiori, desmond, zaffina, diaz, and baker have continued to, along with their players "use adversity as a springboard"

0 and 5 ------------> 7 and 0
speaks for itself

The call on this is easy: Gallagher...

EALAR GALLAGHER!!!! EALAR EALAR EALAR

Murphy from Maranatha hands down for Coach of the Year. I know I’m a bit bias, but with a 10 and 2 record there’s no discussion. Yes, Gallagher brought his team back from a dismal 0 and 5 to start the year but a 7 and 5 record doesn’t cut it. Look what Murphy’s done as a first year coach. Co champions of the tough Alpha league, three of the four teams going into to the semi’s. First time this school has ever advanced into the semi finals. Gained the respect and admiration of his players, students, parents and fans.
That’s my vote

EALAR GALLAGHER

To keep those boys motivated after such a rough beginning to the season really is truly commendable. He respects and motivates EVERY member of the LS football program from the players themselves to the other coaches, cheerleaders, watergirls, and parents. That kind of respect from a coach creates respect FOR a coach. He has turned the team around in such a short amount of time and has done a great job doing it!

Best of luck to the Lancers this weekend

Is gknightmom Bond's mother - the biggest collapse in the history of the school and (s)he wants to make him coach of the year - tells you everything that is wrong with that program and has been for a long while.

It takes more than a winning season to be named Coach Of The Year. Coach Bonds may not have had a great season this year, but he is truly Coach Of The Year in my eyes.

How many coaches do you know that is always there for the players? Coach Bonds cares for the players and helps to develope them in the classroom and on the field. He gives many hours preparing for games, watching films, staying late hours and missing countless hours of sleep, all for the love of his players and the game.

Many coaches are coaches because they want the glory of winning and re-living their teen years.
Coach Bonds is not one of those coaches. I believe he is a coach because he wants to leave his mark and some of his knowledge when turning young boys into great young men. I am sure that anyone who has been through St. Francis, rather as a player or as a student, who was blessed to aquire him as a teacher, would agree with me.

EALAR

Ealar Gallagher.
He never panicked when the La Salle was 0-5. He prepares his team as well as can be.
The preseason teams who beat La Salle were two City teams that won their league (Eagle Rock and Huntington Park), Ontario Christian, who won their league, Monrovia, we all know how good they were this year by reading it here, and San Marino, who just outplayed the Lancers.
After 5 weeks, acording to Calpreps.com, the Lancers were around 20th in the Mid Valley Division, out of 29 teams. Today they are 2nd, right behind Verbum Dei.
What a turnaround! And they beat VD to win the league title.

And lets look at the fact that Murphy from Maranatha has been with the program at the JV level before this - he has worked with these same kids to get them where they are - he is consistent, hard-working and more than fair - he graciously got every kid in to play last Friday night - and we still kept scoring - Not to take anything away from Gallagher - he has had a great comeback season after faltering in the beginning - I would love to see both teams win it all - and both coaches honored - but my heart and gut is with Murphy

I did not read the instructions...

Fred, setting the parameters to include league and playoffs almost frames it as the Galagher Award.

Let's see how far La Salle and Maranatha each go in the playoffs. Last year Maranatha was 7-4, this year they are 10-2 and in the semis. Last year La Salle was 8-4 and are currently 7-5. Maranatha has had a much stronger year-to-year turnaround and currently has 3 more wins. It is currently impossible for La Salle to accumulate as many wins as Maranatha has already, and Maranatha has made the semis as well.

It's dangerous to start talking about level of competition, because then St. Francis can chimb in and talk about how they are the only people around to beat Burroughs...

New York

You are so rarely conflicted I am surprised. Fred does mention the award is primarily focused on league and the playoffs. Perhaps this is so because some teams have an easier go in the preseason than league but it works both ways as evidenced by LaSalle.

I like Maranatha and I think Murphy deserves attention however I think Gallagher had the most to overcome (0-5 start) and has arguably had the toughest schedule in the SGV. It takes good coaching, if not great coaching to make that kind of turnaround at any level,especially high school.

Maranatha is presently 10-2 - our 2 losses were to the always tough Rio Hondo Prep, (pre-season) and Whittier Christian - who is also in the hunt for the CIF title, as are we.

I'm conflicted. As much as I obviously respect La Salle and the turn around, doesn't coach of the year capture the entire year? Dropping the first five is tough to overcome with the vote. What is Maranatha's record? They seem to have recovered after getting dismanteled by RHP, but they did not have such an ugly first five weeks.

Ealar Gallagher is the Coach of the Year...

By righting his ship... beating Monrovia, TC, and Verb in the process... as well as leading the best TEAM in the valley... no one deserves it more than he.

Amen on picking Coach Gallagher. Gallagher's been known to be at La Salle watching films at 5 am every day, and not leaving till late at night. He and the other La Salle Coaches (Desmond, Peterson, Zaffina, Difiori-albeit he wasn't around in my day-) are beyond many in their level of commitment to the young men on that field; They took a 1-8-1 program and turned it into a winning team with its own sense of pride, determination, and the ability to win with honor. Gallagher should've gotten this award years ago.

Ealar Gallagher is the Coach of the Year.

Took an 0 - 5 start to a 7 game winning streak and the semi's in tough competition. Temple City, Verbum Dei, Fillmore, Monrovia. L S probably has had the toughest schedule of any of the teams and coaches that would be in consideration for Coach of the Year! Combined records of L S opponents is 80 - 43. Pasadena Poly's opponents where 57 - 55, Maranatha opponents 53 - 72. Coaching involves making adjustments to put your team in position to win. No disrespect to any of these other fine programs but L S worked through adversity, made adjustments and is now in the semi's upsetting several teams in the process. End of story.

Gallagher certainly gets my vote. A true test of the value of a coach is how he deals with losing and overcomes it.

Ealar Gallagher

Pasadena Poly coach Brendan McGrail - Went 10-2 - won league - won playoff game after moving up in class and stopped Rio' 18 game win streak at their home under the lights with a shut out no less. Always positve and up beat - what a HS coach should be - would set a great example to certain other coaches in the area - and not just football - for him to win.

If anyone besides Ealar Galagher does not get this it will be a travesty. No disrispect to the Maranatha side. Gallagher is the obvious choice, he has beaten TC, Monrovia and Verb and is on his way to Semis's. No one can downplay the level of play in the Mid-Valley, it is chuck full of talent. To be making it this far takes skill, work and determination. He has all of it. Gallagher!

Coach Joel Murphy from Maranatha. He leads by example - garnering respect from players and fans. He has taken a team with a weak preseason and guided them through - coming back after a tough loss to RHP and a poor showing against Whittier Christian to well into the play-offs - even when no one thought the Minutemen could do it. He is a class act on and off the field.