August 2009 Archives

St. Francis star Dietrich Riley is one of the most coveted recruits this season, and arguably the West San Gabriel Valley's best Division I prospect; the San Gabriel Valley's version of Matt Barkley, if you will. USC coach Pete Carroll was first to offer Riley a scholarship, and he hadn't even set foot in his first varsity game. Yeah, Riley's got game. Since then, Riley's gotten well over a dozen offers from some of the top football programs in the nation, including USC, Ohio State, Alabama, Notre Dame and Oklahoma. Riley's graced us with his ominous presence the last three seasons, and as he prepares for his final season we will follow him every week and await his highly-anticipated decision of where he'll continue his stellar career.

The Times' Eric Sondheimer has rated the top players at each position. Not surprisingly, some of the WSGV's best are on that list, led by Alhambra senior Mitchell Crockom, rated No. 5 in Sondheimer's top 10 list. He writes: "(Crockom) has speed and a 41-inch vertical leap." Crockom is our top-rated wide reciever. Also making the list at No. 15 is Alhambra senior quarterback Darrian Cazarin, who threw for 2,204 yards and 24 touchdowns. When our FAB 5 list publishes this week on our blog, you'll find Cazarin at No. 4 behind San Gabriel's Isaac Valdez, Monrovia's Nick Bueno and Muir's Jarron Williams. Cazarin at No. 4 in my list might not be a popular move, but remember the guys above him had either an even much better season (Valdez), led their respective team to a semifinals run in the playoffs (Bueno) or led their respective team to a league title in a tough league (Williams). Cazarin's stats this season will be of greater significance when he leads the Moors back to the promise land: an Almont League title and a quarterfinals run in the Southeast Division playoffs. Temple City's Max Ruckle cracked the "Others to watch" part of the "Rating the running backs" list. St. Francis' Patrick Carroll made the offensive linemen list. I didn't see Dietrich Riley's name come up, but no doubt the St. Francis star is a man among boys in the land of coveted recruits. You can throw Loyola running back Anthony Barr in the mix, too. The kid is a beast, running over Bishop Amat as a junior last season.

Discuss anything and everything you want to talk about, especially football ...

Be sure to grab a copy of our football tab, which publishes Wed., Sept. 2 in the Star-News. As usual, we'll have league overviews, the preseason top 10 poll, the top 6 returning athletes gracing the cover, team-by-team capsules and complete schedules, and beginning Tuesday we get back to full speed with daily notebooks and weekly features on your favorite teams ...

"We're aiming for heads."

Those are the words of a Muir football player when asked if the Mustangs are seeking redemption when they host Diamond Ranch next Friday at 7. There are posters all over Muir's campus promoting the school's new football field, which is generating buzz around campus with students who will attend their first game just to see their team play on a new field. Muir will try to do what it couldn't do in the first round of the Southeast Division playoffs. We'll see how the Mustangs fare against the runner-up. Here's a list of Week 0 games in the WSGV ... Who's ready to get this party started? By the way: the football preview tab publishes Wednesday, Sept. 2.

WEEK 0
(All games 7 p.m. unless noted)

Thursday, Sept. 3

La Puente at Gabrielino -- Harold Sanin, a longtime assistant coach, begins his first season after Vince Lopez resigned to become assistant principal. After La Puente's debacle last year, the Falcons Warriors could give Sanin a tough Week 0.

Friday, Sept. 3

Diamond Ranch at Muir -- All year long, a certain D-Ranch assistant coach has taken friendly jabs at Muir coach Ken Howard. It's time to put that to rest, Kenny. The Mustangs won at Diamond Ranch last year in the season opener but faltered in the playoffs. Muir will protect its home field and reclaim SGV supremacy.

Arcadia at Monrovia -- No truth to rumors Arcadia will jog to Monrovia High and use it as pre-game warmups (that visual popped in my head for whatever reason). Anyway, Nick Bueno & Co. takes on a revamped Apaches team that includes one of the area's top QB in Garret Tuck and newcomers Taylor Legace and Rodney Arnett.

Linfield Christian at Maranatha -- Yawn .... When's that game vs. La Salle again? Oh yeah, but either way 'Natha fans will finally get a chance to see what Cody Keith's all about. Call this one a tune-up to the Minutemen's showdown with La Salle and then Bakersfield Christian.

Village Christian at La Salle -- The Lancers were routed last year at Village Christian. They hope to have regained their form with a revamped staff and renewed enthusiasm in the Lancers program.

Pasadena at Westchester -- Isn't Westchester a basketball school? I didn't even know Westchester had a football team. Well, in that case, pencil in a "W" for the boys on Sierra Madre. The McFarland era gets off to a good start.

San Gabriel at Cathedral -- Got a lot of heat for picking Cathedral last year. Someone still owes me a steak dinner. I'll let it slide. With vengeance on his mind, Isaac Valdez leads the Matadors to an impressive victory.

Pomona at Keppel -- Keppel has a 50 percent chance to win this game. But so does Pomona. My coin has the Aztecs breaking out of their 30-plus game skid.

Alhambra at Roosevelt -- Alhambra's Gil Ruedaflores and Roosevelt's Javier Cid are very good friends and practically hung out all summer as coaches of the SoCal Fiesta Bowl. Ruedaflores, however, will feel no remorse when the Moors put the beat down.

Blair at St. Margaret's -- Why?

Duarte at Cajon -- Tip Sanders gets his shot at reviving another program.

Rio Hondo Prep at Mission Prep -- The area's lone CIF champion last year opens the season with a victory.

Saturday, Sept. 4

Contreras at Bosco Tech, 1:30 p.m. -- Tiger fans, save your Saturday afternoons for football games. All of Bosco Techs' home games will be Saturday at 1:30 p.m.

Animo Leadership at Pasadena Poly, 11 a.m. -- Grab a cup of coffee and read your favorite sportswriter in Saturday's paper while also watching Poly cook up a win.

By Miguel A. Melendez, Staff Writer

A blaze in the Angeles National Forest producing poor air quality across the San Gabriel Valley forced some high school football teams on Wednesday to cancel or restrict outdoor activities.

The fire, which broke out Tuesday afternoon on both sides of Highway 39 near Morris Dam Reservoir, has burned 750 acres. Chris Rush, an Angeles National Forest dispatcher, said the blaze was less than 10 percent contained early Wednesday.

The County of Los Angeles Public Health issued an air quality alert and urged individuals to take precautions where there's visible smoke or an odor of smoke.

"All individuals are urged to be cautious and to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities," said Jonathan E. Fielding, director of Public Health. "We are also advising schools that are in session in smoke-impacted areas to suspend outside physical activities in these areas, including physical education and after-school sports until conditions improve."

While some teams are done with two-a-day practices and begin preparation for next week's season opener (Week 0), other teams which don't kick off until two weeks from now (Week 1) and still have two-a-days scheduled are having to find ways to fill time for their morning sessions.

Coaches said they will focus on a light walk-through, watching film and hitting the weight room, activities usually reserved for afternoon sessions.

Rosemead High School football coach Matt Koffler said school and district officials canceled all outdoor activity before the team got on the field for its two-hour morning practice.

"We hung out in the morning and stuck around until further notice," Koffler said. "Later we'll go inside the gym, watch some film and do some push-ups, sit-ups and plyometric stuff to keep busy."

Koffler said the interruption would not affect the Panthers' readiness.

"We're set and ready to play if we had to go today," said Koffler, whose Panthers scrimmage South Pasadena next week. South Pasadena canceled practice Wednesday.

Damien coach Greg Gano said he's waiting to hear from school administrators to see if they'll cancel outdoor practice in the afternoon or go ahead as planned.

Glendora coach Mark Pasquarella said the Tartans would practice in one of the school's gyms.

Monrovia, which ended two-a-days on Tuesday, had a walk-through in the gym and watched film Wednesday.

"The way it's looking right now we won't be doing any running," Wildcats coach Ryan Maddox said. "We'll review plays, watch some films so, yeah, it will affect practice."

Maddox, who got a text from Monrovia athletic director Randy Bell about the limited practice, said there's no timetable on the imposed practice restrictions.

Whether it affects preparation for next week's opener at home against Arcadia is uncertain.

"I hope not," Maddox said. "Hopefully this will be a one-day thing. We'll play it day by day, but what could be affecting us is probably affecting (Arcadia). Hopefully it'll clear up."

Area coaches seem to be getting used to wildfires infringing on their practice schedule.

Last year, the Sierra Madre fire postponed the start of spring practice across the San Gabriel Valley and beyond.

"It was about three times worse than it's out there now," Koffler said. "Hopefully everything turns out OK. We'll get through it."

The Associated Press

VERNON, Texas -- Officials say a northern Texas middle school student was found unresponsive at home and pronounced dead the morning after going through football practice in triple-digit heat.

Wilbarger County Justice of the Peace Lewis Templeton said Wednesday a toxicology report should determine whether the death of 13-year-old Brent Shinn was heat-related. Foul play has been ruled out.

The 13-year-old from Vernon Middle School was found unresponsive Tuesday morning and later pronounced dead at a hospital.

Vernon schools Superintendent Tom Woody said practice lasted a little more than an hour Monday afternoon. The temperature was about 105, according to the National Weather Service.

Vernon is located about 150 miles northwest of Fort Worth.

Ben Bolch at the Los Angeles Times reports a star running back from Lakewood High was charged Tuesday with two counts of attempted murder in connection with what police described as a gang-related drive-by shooting Friday afternoon in which no one was injured. Bolch wirtes: Law enforcement officials privately confirmed that Jerry Stone, a senior considered among the best tailbacks in the state, was allegedly driving the vehicle involved in the shooting, which occurred in the 1100 block of Acacia Avenue in Compton. Because Stone is a juvenile, authorities are not allowed to identify him publicly.

In putting together the football preview section, Keith Lair and I have made numerous phone calls to WSGV coaches. I've talked to every single coach in the Rio Hondo, Pacific, and Camino Real leagues, respectively. And now all I'm missing is our boys on Lincoln and Foothill Blvd: Muir and St. Francis. Seems like we're playing phone tag the last week or so with both coaches, though I don't blame them since my extension at work was down a few days while I.T. (finally) took care of my internet connection. With Muir and St. Francis left this question comes to mind: Are both schools really the area's top two teams? I know Monrovia coach Ryan Maddox might hate my saying this, but I might be going with the Wildcats this season as the area's best. Unpopular move, I know. But can you really make valid arguments why Muir and St. Francis belong in the top two spots after losing so much talent? Yeah, both teams return Jarron Williams and Dietrich Riley, respectively, but what after that? Therein lies the debate .... Don't wait for me to start the Top 10, give your two cents here. Football Preview section is tentatively scheduled to run next week.

Fred Robledo brings it to you first ....

The CIF-Southern Section announced this morning that brothers Jordan (senior) and Jaime (sophomore) Canada have been declared ineligible to play football during the 2009 season for "athletically motivated" reasons. Jordan and Jaime Canada left Duarte high early last spring to enroll at South Hills, where they have been practicing with the football team in preparation for the 2009 season. According to CIF Director of Communications Thom Simmons, the reason for declaring the Canada's ineligible was that Duarte officials attached a letter with the transfer paperwork suggesting that the Canada's transfer to South Hills was "athletically motivated." Once a school that the players is leaving makes that suggestion, according to Simmons, a player is immediately declared ineligible. "Now it's up to the parents (of Jordan and Jaime Canada) and South Hills to show that it wasn't an athletically motivated transfer," Simmons said. South Hills coach Steve Bogan was extremely disappointed, and guarded in his remarks. "We know that they (the Canada's) did everything right," Bogan said. "We know this was not a final decision, it was a step in the process. CIF has a process they have to go through to find clarity. We're looking into and will work with CIF to find that clarity so they can make the right decision."

Those were the days: Muir had crazy depth last year, and with 24 players graduating the question is: Who will fill those shoes left by Josh Jones (No. 24), Myles Campbell (No. 3), Mitchell Garner (No. 7), Reuben "Bingo" Thomas (No. 23, AKA Mr. Everything) and Fernando Aguilar (No. 55)?

Well well well.

Just when I thought Muir would somewhat be in trouble this season I make a complete 180 assessment after attending Thursday's practice. The creepy part isn't that !stang! easily spotted yours truly at practice but that the 'Stangs, despite low numbers, have loads of talent.

In fact, Muir just may be the top team when the preseason top 10 poll is published next week, though what does that now say about The Stang Fan's ability to asses your favorite reporter's ability to asses your favorite team?

I digress ... When Muir graduated 24 players last year (Ouch!) there was no telling where the Mustangs would rate this season. We knew Jarron Williams, nursing back spams Thursday, was returning at quarterback and three linemen (Danny Huerta, Chris Blas, Cameron Palmer) also were returning.

Aside from that, everyone's guess was as good as mine. The skill positions and the secondary took a big hit, no doubt. Who fills the void is a challenge Mustangs coach Ken Howard is looking forward to overcoming. Gone are the days when Muir suited 40-60 guys.

"It's intimidating when you look at the other sideline and see a bunch of guys suited up," Howard said. "But I would much rather work with a small group, honestly. It's easier to have a solid group of 25 instead of 100 players and having to figure out who is going to play on any given down."

Be careful what you wish for, Kenny.

Nevertheless, it's the situation Howard now finds himself in. Muir's success is heavily dependent on how well the line executes. The "Trench Mob," as they're known by the rest of the team and coaches, can't succumb to the pressure Howard has laid on them.

"Those are my MVP's," Howard said. "I preach it to them every day. They need to play well and hold their own in order for us to do what we want to do."

Exactly what Muir's offense will consist of is still unclear. Howard said fans can still expect a spread formation, though a balanced attack is still in order.

Senior Eddie Tripp will carry the ball but expect sophomore Kevon Seymore to see time there as well.

Seymore's only a sophomore but already he's proved he can hang with the big boys, at least in my eyes.

He took a lights-out hit from Howard Vaughn at practice. Seymore made a cut up the middle and went head-to-head with Vaughn charging. They collided, helmets smacked and down went Seymore. He lay on the ground for a good three seconds, Vaughn looking down on him before Seymore popped up and was ready for redemption.

It's that kind of determination that has Howard excited for the upcoming season. Muir's lineup will include a few transfers. Vaughn transferred from Marshall and Jeffrey Lett, a junior competing at quarterback who could see time at receiver, too, from PHS.

Leadership is something I feel the Mustangs lacked a bit last season. I covered my fair share of Muir games, and honestly never did see someone take firm direction of the team. Williams has that quality in him that not only makes him likable but also someone who has the respect of his teammates; they will follow him by example. Williams was overshadowed by the likes of Thomas and Campbell. But not this season.

"This is his team," Howard said. "He likes to have that kind of pressure on him."

Howard and I talked more about the Pacific League and the recent hires. On PHS hiring Mike McFarland, Howard said: "He's about the kids. He's the best guy for the job in terms of turning that program around."

Regardless of what anyone says, there may be more parity this season in the Pacific League.

Still -- as I quickly learned -- never discount the power of the 'Stangs.

Above: Ain't it a beauty? (Photos courtesy of Rudy Mendez)

PHS and Muir will play in brand spankin' new fields when the season kicks off in a few weeks. 'Stang Nation will beam with pride when Diamond Ranch comes to town come Week 0, a rematch of last year's first round of the CIF-Southern Section Southeast Division playoffs. Then there's PHS, playing its first home game on campus ever when the season begins, never mind that PHS' schedule on CalPreps has them listed at PCC. Playing on a state-of-the-art field surely will give both the schools and the surrounding communities a sense of pride, too. These photos were provided by PHS alumnus Rudy Mendez who e-mailed to say: "(I) was allowed access to tour the new football field at the school. .... I spoke to the crew working on the field and they told me they'll install aluminum bleachers next week." Funding also was provided to upgrade and begin construction for new fields at Blair and Marshall high schools next summer. There's a reason why Blair agreed to play its first five games on the road this season, to have those teams return the favor next year when Blair unveils its new field. Blair will spend less money this season by not having to play at PCC and the Vikings will generate some revenue next year when Blair Blair ends its second-year contract with this year's nonleague opponents. Finally, some exciting news for Pasadena-based high schools.

RELATED LINKS

Football: Muir, PHS getting new athletic fields

Football: Upgrades are taking shape at Muir, PHS

Anthony White received approval of employment by the Temple City Unified School District at a Wednesday night board meeting. White will join the social science department.

White was hired earlier this year to replace Randy Backus as the Rams head varsity football coach. White previously taught two years of AP U.S. history and economics at Rosemead High. His official assignment begins Sept. 1, according to the school board agenda posted on the district's Website.

White sounded excited when reached by phone Thursday morning.

"It's incredible to be closer to the boys," he said. "I used to teach AP honors history, economics and that's pretty much what I'll be teaching (at Temple City).

"It's great to teach at a school district like Temple City where the academics prestige is there. it helps me in my professional career on and off the field."

White will be part of a teaching staff that also includes Backus, who teaches English and previously coached the football program in one capacity or another for over a decade. White, however, said there will be no awkwardness.

"Randy's a great guy and I've talked to him throughout this whole off season, talking about the guys on the team," White said. "I don't think it'll be awkward at all."

White went through a rigorous interviewing process where he had to make a 30-minute presentation in front of the TCUSD superintendent, asst. superintendent, TCHS principal and the head of the social science department.

White, who prepped at Rosemead High, will not only leave behind his colleagues but also his younger brother and Panthers junior running back Matt Fregoso.

"I'm really sad about that but we raised him tough," White said. "My mom and my sister and my other brother we're a close family. We're together every weekend.

"I'll make sure that his grades are up to par and does what he has to do. I've been coaching him and teaching him since he was born. One semester without me shouldn't make that much of a difference."

In other news, Temple City baseball coach Barry Bacon and Backus both were tenured by the school board, according to the agenda highlighting the approval of certificated personnel.

Interesting story in today's New York Times about leagues implementing rules on where game videos are broadcast and photos are published.

This is very similar to how the CIF-Southern Section set restrictions on live blogging of playoff and championship events

From The New York Times:

The dispute has reached high school sports. In Wisconsin, for example, Gannett, the newspaper chain that owns The Post-Crescent in Appleton, Wisc., has been enmeshed for months in a legal battle with the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association.

The controversy touches on a number of issues, including the live streaming of games, the definition of live blogging and the ownership of photographs taken during games.

"They are challenging our authority to run our tournaments," said Todd Clark, a spokesman for the athletic association.

Debate over in-game blogging has been particularly contentious in Wisconsin. Last year, the athletic association sent $100 invoices -- the fee it charges radio stations to cover games -- to newspapers that it determined were publishing play-by-play blogs. The newspapers ignored the bills.

"It was absolutely ludicrous," said Peter Fox, the executive director of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. "You can't do play-by-play in a blog. You can't type that fast, for crying out loud."

Above: Pasadena football coach Mike McFarland, far right, with some of his players during Tuesday's practice. (Keith Birmingham /Staff photographer)

What's to make of Pasadena this season? The morale hasn't been the best at a school more known for its boys basketball team than anything else. Despite the strong fan base, the football team has generated very little interest among football fans in the West San Gabriel Valley. Yet, when Kevin Mills resigned last year, the PHS job became one of the more coveted jobs in the Southland because of what it can represent.

Mike McFarland has journeyed from Missouri. Call him the prodigal son, returning to his roots where it all began: The West San Gabriel Valley.

The Arcadia alum is battling with Pasadena's past: its lack of continuity, success and passion. It's why McFarland won't define the Bulldogs' success by wins or losses. It's about taking the necessary steps to improve each day. It starts with the little details first before making grand aspirations.

In talking to McFarland on Tuesday during a 40-minute interview you easily sense the passion, determination and willingness to lift up the program to where it once was.

It's what gives Pasadena more than a great shot to battle the Muirs and Arcadias. Perhaps not this season just yet, but definitely sooner rather than later.

"My motto with this team is to improve every day," McFarland said. "We just take it one day at a time and we'll look for ways to improve. I'm not worried about wins and losses. We feel we have enough talent to be very competitive.

"My ultimate goal for this team is that we play good football and put a good product on the field and compete at a very high level. The wins and losses shake out after that."

Pasadena doesn't have the J'Quan Hamilton to quarterback the offense. In fact, the Bulldogs will be a run-friendly team this season with senior Nick Escoe and sophomore Cleo Bates Jr. battling for time in the backfield. For those with a sense of history, Cleo Bates is the son of the great Cleo Bates Sr., a PHS running back in the 80's and then went on to play at Colorado. Bates Jr. is a lanky (6-foot-1) speedster with the ability to take the ball the distance. PHS returns eight starters from last year's team, including lineman Anthony Boykins.

"The first thing we have to get really good at what we can do well," McFarland said. "We have to be able to execute a well-rounded scheme that has answers within it for different ways we can be defended. Offensively we have to present a scheme that a defense has to account for multiple ways it can be attacked. It can't just be three plays, line up and run it.

"Through formations and personnel adjustments we have to have ways to come back so a defense can't just line up and play us. Our scheme needs to be flexible enough that we can take advantage if a line wants to stack the box. We will have the ability to have a little bit of a spread dimension and spread the field and take advantage of the defense if they don't adjust."

Still, there are battles within the program McFarland is addressing first, which is why there are no bold expectations this season.

"There's ups and downs," he said. "We've battled demons here for the first few months with kids in terms of consistency not only in the past and maybe past disappointments, but I can't put it all on it. I can just go on what what I've seen since I've been here.

"A lot of times when there's not a level of success that has been achieved the passion isn't there. It's human nature, not just in sports. If you're not being successful people don't get excited. It's the most important thing, to generate that passion. The passion comes when players start seeing themselves successful. When they know things are headed int he right direction and feel themselves the player they want to become, then you start to get guys with passion.

"We're still in the building process and get this thing going at a consistent level. What we as coaches have talked about is our players need to get closer to success and see it and feel it, and when that happens that's when you start to get more of a buy-in from your players."

WEEK 0: Arcadia at Monrovia, Sept. 4
Monrovia got off to a horrendous start last year, though things did pan out for the Wildcats in the end. Arcadia hopes to keep season-opening momentum going the rest of the year.

Prediction: Monrovia

WEEK 1: Maranatha at La Salle, Sept. 11
Last year's epic battle is renewed as both teams test their new quarterbacks in what promises to be yet another showdown. No truth to rumors of building a wall to separate La Salle fans from Maranatha's.

Prediction: Maranatha

WEEK 2: Rosemead at Monrovia, Sept. 18
The Wildcats will have vengeance on their mind when they take on the Panthers, which ousted Monrovia in last year's semifinals of the CIF-Southern Section Mid-Valley Division playoffs. Rosemead QB Matt Macias vs. Monrovia QB Nick Bueno will be fun to watch. Lets see who out runs who.

Prediction: Monrovia

WEEK 3: Temple City at Arcadia, Sept. 25
Randy Backus spent 14 years at Temple City but he'll be wearing cardinal and gold when his Apaches take on the rookie Anthony White and the Temple City Rams. "Brawl for the Mall" ... uh, yeah, real clever. Who came up with that?...

Prediction: Temple City

WEEK 4: Temple City at Rosemead, Oct. 2
Last year's Mid-Valley Division championship game that never happened, thanks to our friends in the desert. Perhaps a preview of this year's final?

Prediction: Rosemead

WEEK 5: La Salle at Temple City or Rosemead at South Hills, Oct. 9
La Salle beefed up its schedule considerably and it'll only help the Lancers in the long run. Still, Rams run away in the second half.

Prediction: Temple City

WEEK 6: Arcadia at Muir, Oct. 16
The Apaches had a tough time handling the Mustangs' speed last year. Things are not as even but Arcadia will compete and give Muir a run for its money.

Prediction: Muir

WEEK 7: Monrovia at Temple City, Oct. 23
A shot at the Rio Hondo League championship will be on the line when the WSGV's two best offensive line meet. Monrovia's core of returning players at key positions will propel the Wildcats to a victory.

Prediction: Monrovia

WEEK 8: Alhambra at San Gabriel, Oct. 30
The Almont League's two best quarterbacks clash when Darrian Cazarin leads the Moors against Isaac Valdez and the Matadors. Alhambra came away with a 30-14 victory courtesy of a surprise rushing attack. The Moors offensive prowess again will overwhelm San Gabriel.

Prediction: Alhambra

WEEK 9: St. Francis at Alemany, Nov. 6
The Dietrich Riley show continues. This could be a make-or-break game for the Knights who hope to secure a playoff berth with a victory.

Prediction: St. Francis

WEEK 10: Muir vs. Pasadena at Rose Bowl, Nov. 13
The Turkey Tussle won't be as lopsided this year, though the Mustangs figure to be the odds on favorite to win, again.

Prediction: Muir

This one's for my boy tcchamps ...

As promised, I headed over to Temple City High School where the Rams opened camp. Gotta love the green T-shirts the Rams wore during practice: "Why not us?" in reference to Temple City shy of reaching the Mid-Valley Division final. Practice started winding down around 10:30 a.m. with three groups running sprints. As some players trailed the rest TC coach Anthony White wasn't having it; "Your vacation is over!!!" he yelled. Anyway, there's not much mystery surrounding the Rams this year, but the one question that remains is: Who will replace QB Morgan Hatch? Temple City returns four of its five offensive linemen from last season, including senior Matt O'Malley. Also returning is the bruising Max Ruckle at running back. That much you already knew. The QB situation is still being sorted out. After all, today was only the first day of practice. White will know more when the team throws on pads Thursday. For now, here's what I saw ... There's a three-player rotation at quarterback, led by senior Justin Smith. The others are sophomore Calvin Copping and freshman sensation Brandon Cox. Smith appeared to get most of the snaps Monday with Cox and Copping looking on. If the season started today, I would guess Smith would start, Cox is the back-up and Copping the third string, respectively. Cox, however, is more athletic than the two, in my opinion. He's fast, has height (he's 6-foot-1) and has played quarterback since pop warner, though he did play running back, too. He was limited to action because of a strain ligament in his left elbow. Still, you can tell the kid's got some serious raw talent. "I bring a lot of good assets to the team," said Cox after Monday's practice. "But I i'm just trying to do what i can to help the team win. I'm really a quarterback but I've been wanting to be a quarterback since i was 2. If they need me at receiver i'll do it. I just want to help the team win. Speed's one of my advantages; I'm tall and I can leap." Rams fans will love to read this: Cox said doctors have told him he has a chance to grow to be 6-foot-4.

How you like them apples?

I spent my Saturday evening covering the Seattle-Galaxy soccer match since our soccer beat writer couldn't make it. Normally, I would have kept my Saturday night open for other fun activities but I decided to pinch-hit since covering the game meant I would get a chance to see my old soccer scribe buddies. After deadline some of us went out for a bite and reminisced our traveling days. Two years ago, all of us in the photo above were reporters at major newspapers. Now, only two of us continue to work in print journalism (myself and my good friend Jose Romero of the Seattle Times, far left). Everyone else is freelancing and working in PR. A lot sure has changed from just two years ago, but for at least one night we were all smiles. ... Anyway, I got into the office not long ago and walked over to Subway to grab a sandwich. As soon as I walked in I heard, "Hey, Miguel." I turned and there was the one and only Dietrich Riley. He was there with his mom grabbing a bite, too, and we chatted a bit. I spent most of my morning at Temple City High where the Rams opened camp. Later I made a pit stop at the Tribune office before heading over to Monrovia High to chat with Ryan Maddox. I'll dispatch reports in a bit ...

As coaches call back to give me the low down I'll be posting here with the latest information on your favorite teams. Here's La Salle ...

Antoine Peterson was probably hired too late last season in terms of not having time to install his own summer and offseason program. Then, the season began and the Lancers' roster was depleted with injuries. The fallout led to Chase Rettig's transferring to San Clemente High and a shakeup in the coaching ranks (Eddie Howard, special teams coach, and Pat Walker, offensive coordinator, are the only returning coaches).

Now's the time for the Lancers faithful to forget the 1-9 season.

Fall camp started today and the final two-a-days end Saturday with afternoon workouts beginning Monday.

Peterson has turned the leaf and said his staff and players are all now on the same page, which clearly wasn't the case last season.

Case in point: Chase Rettig was the only player taking snaps last season even during practice. Had he gone down with an injury there would have been no viable backup with the necessary reps. Sure, Kishon Sanders was designated the backup quarterback but never took a snap.

This season, four quarterbacks have taken plenty of snaps, and so far junior Will Harriety and sophomore Mike Novell are neck-in-neck for the starting spot. Mike Alexander is probably the third QB with Kishon Sanders also available if needed; he took most of the spring snaps.

This clearly is a different scenario from last year when the offensive coordinator limited snaps to Rettig.

Pat Walker, secondary coach last year, was promoted to offensive coordinator this season. In having a four-player rotation at quarterback Walker is giving the Lancers depth at a key position.

The coaching staff is all brand new this season (Ed Ramirez, defensive coordinator; Robert Maxie, wide receivers coach; Harold Johnson, running backs coach; Casey Hilland, offensive line coach; and David Shaw, offensive line coach) and the Lancers will look just as different on the field.

Gone is the spread offense Rettig was supposed to thrive in last year. In comes a balanced attack in an effort to rid the predictability La Salle fell victim to last season.

On paper, the Lancers look like a formidable team that's back with vengance on its mind.

They return 14 starters from last year's team and its entire offensive line, including Andrew Pankow (6'3, 270 pounds) who is drawing interest from a score of small schools and some major Division I programs. He's taken a trip to Penn State.

With a revamped staff and an energized team, expect the Lancers to make a run for the Camino Real League championship and a sure spot in the playoffs.

How this year's Maranatha-La Salle game will match last year's epic battle is uncertain, but expect a battle from start to end for supremecy among two small school powers.

I wonder if La Salle will have In-N-Out ...

No word yet on whether the city of Temple City will give Anthony White a key to the city, but the welcome mat is still laid out on the footsteps at Temple City High. White's task at hand wasn't an easy one. He had to hire a new coaching staff, get his parents and players to believe in the new spread offense he's instilling this season all the while lurking behind the shadow of Randy Backus, who became extremely popular among players and staff during his 10-plus years at TC. Since his arrival, White's been given the support he was seeking, and so far things are looking up. The Rams return one of the best offensive line in the West San Gabriel Valley and arguably the second best running back in Max Ruckle. Despite the lack of depth at the skill position and everywhere else on the defensive end, Temple City is still built to compete for not just the Rio Hondo League but also in the CIF-Southern Section Mid-Valley Division playoffs, that's my assertion given the pool of talent Sir White will have to choose from. White concedes there is some pressure to perform but added he's confident with his abilities and grateful for the support of his administration and his star-studded coaching staff. If Temple City finishes second (my prediction) this season or, better yet, as the RHL champion, you can expect the Rams family to praise White and continue embracing the up-and-coming coach with open arms. One thing White wants to make clear is this: "I will do all I can to also please Goldenarm." You see, that, Goldenarm? Even you have some influence in this little community of ours. It's nice, ain't it? With that in mind, I give you a crack at my predicted order of how teams will finish in the Rio Hondo League:

1. Monrovia -- Nick Bueno is back to lead the way offensively and the addition of several running backs gives the offense added depth it didn't have the luxury of having last season. Add the fact the Wildcats return four of their five offensive lineman and you've got one of the best group of linemen in the WSGV. The only question mark is the experience behind the depth; there's very little. Also, baseball stud Justin De La Nuez will play outside linebacker this season. Should be fun to watch.

2. Temple City -- Much like Monrovia, the Rams arguably have one of the best offensive linemen in the WSGV. This group have the experience fresh teammates will depend upon when the Rams make a deep run in the playoffs. Running behind that group will be Max Ruckle, who probably should have carried the ball a lot earlier last season, no diss on Joey Stewart. Smash-mouth football was the Rams' tradmark for decades, but with White in place expect Temple City to run a spread offense. More players tried out for wide reciever for the first time in 50 years. There will be a long list of receivers White will get to choose from, but who will throw them the ball is the question and primary concern for the Rams, who open camp Monday. You want names of the players competing at QB? I'll hook you up Monday.

3. Blair -- I can already see the e-mails coming but bare with me. Based on what I've heard and listened from second-year coach Gary Parks, the Vikings could compete for a playoff spot this season. A bunch of heavy-hitters will anchor the line, something the Vikings' success will heavily depend on. Add a few key players at key positions and you've possibly got a wild-card team in Blair. That said, I can easily see myself swapping the Vikings with San Marino when the football section runs later in August.

4. San Marino -- Still hate me, Titans fans? Well, don't. Until we know exactly where everyone else stands (offensive line, secondary, skill positions) we won't know if San Marino will be the same team that started the season unbeaten heading into league. What we do know is Joe Forgatch returning at quarterback and Stevie Yortsos filling the role as Mr. Everything gives the Titans a pretty good chance at moving up on this unofficial list. Use it as motivation, use it as another reason to throw tomatoes at me, but the season's still early and nothing ever is certain. Just look at my predictions from last season.

5. La Canada -- New coach. That's about as much as I know about the Spartans. First-year coach Dan Yoder is very familiar with the program having been the JV coach the last four years. He's also been a history teacher at LC the last five years. I imagine Rocky Moore will be back at quarterback. Aside from him, not really sure what's to made of the Spartans. I've put in a call to Yoder and I'm sure he'll call back. Still, based on last year, La Canada again could be the dark horse and provide a good scare to some RHL teams. Just ask Temple City.

6. South Pasadena -- Conor Bednarski is the returning quarterback. The junior will shoulder more responsibility on offense. But the question is, who will he be throwing to? Steven Colliau is gone, meaning every other receiver entering camp is either brand spanking new or lacks varsity experience. The Tigers return five starters on offense, including senior running back Howard Serrian. South Pasadena on the defensive side is very thin. They return just three players. This could be another rebuilding season for the boys on Fremont.

I wanted to put together a top 10 list of the top returning quarterbacks in the West San Gabriel Valley, but frankly there just isn't that kind of talent this season. Gone is Matt Schilz (Bowling Green) and Chase Rettig (transferred to San Clemente), two guys that annually battled for the list's top spots. So we'll limit the list to the top 5 and make it a good one. Without further adieu, here is the first list for you hungry-football freaks, the top 5 returning QB's in the West San Gabriel Valley.

1. ISAAC VALDEZ, SAN GABRIEL, SENIOR

QUICK LOOK: Valdez completed almost 64 percent of his passes. He was the Star-News' first team All-Area quarterback after throwing for 2,754 yards and 16 touchdowns. The 5-foot-7 Valdez displayed his speed as well, rushing for nearly 700 yards and six touchdowns.

MY TAKE: Imagine the college scouts all over San Gabriel High if Valdez was 6-foot-3?!?! Heck, he'd like to be at least 5-foot-10, Valdez said to me once during the All-Area photo shoot. Nonetheless, Valdez has shown he has a rocket of an arm, each year improving on yards passing. He's not elusive but he is quick, making him a true threat for the Matadors which already boast a talented backfield. San Gabriel finished 5-6 overall and were ousted in the first round of the CIF-Southern Section playoffs, but you have to remember injuries plagued San Gabriel with the loss of Marcos Villalobos, who wasn't the same after separating his shoulder in the Alhambra game. Things are looking up for the Matadors. Keep an eye out on their offensive line. They won't exactly match Temple City's studs, but they'll be up there, meaning Valdez could have an even better season come Fall.

2. NICK BUENO, MONROVIA, JUNIOR

QUICK LOOK: Bueno completed 55 percent of his passes and threw for 1,037 yards and had 10 touchdowns with just three interceptions. He rushed for 221 yards and three touchdowns as well. Bueno was instrumental in leading the Wildcats to the semifinals of the CIF-Southern Section Mid-Valley Division playoffs. Bueno also led Monrovia to a Rio Hondo League championship after an impressive 5-0 record in league.

MY TAKE: Bueno was thrown to the fire and the kid didn't disappoint. Monrovia took some bumps and bruises in mastering the Wing-T offense and though Marquis Williams was a big part of the offense's success, it was Bueno's dependability that grew as the season progressed, allowing the Wing-T offense to be effectively executed. Monrovia's one dimensional offense evolved when Bueno was given more responsibility. He's not quick but he is patient and mastered his way into finding options even when the pocket sometimes collapsed. Look for Bueno to have more responsibility in the offense with the absence of Marquis.

3. JARRON WILLIAMS, MUIR, SENIOR

QUICK LOOK: Williams emerged as the team's quarterback after Muir lost key players in the backfield, moving Reuben Thomas from quarterback to Mr. Everything, particularly at running back. Williams threw for 1,599 yards and 15 touchdowns with only three interceptions. He also rushed for three touchdowns. Williams led Muir to a 9-2 record and another Pacific League title.

MY TAKE: Though the Mustangs lost to Diamond Ranch in the first round of the Southeast Division playoffs, it was Williams who fueled a frantic rally in the final minutes of the game. Williams doesn't have the speed or elusiveness that Thomas had but in Williams the Mustangs have a patient, subtle leader that can inspire teammates with his actions on the field. It took a while for Williams to get used to the pressure in the backfield but as the season progressed he became more comfortable throwing on the run. Williams could have a breakout season if in fact Muir has a stout offensive line like coach Kenny Howard claims.

4. DARRIAN CAZARIN, ALHAMBRA, SENIOR

QUICK LOOK: Cazarin threw for 2,209 yards and 24 touchdowns. The lone downside was he threw for 12 interceptions. Despite having a talented quarterback and true threats at wide receiver with Mitchell Crockom and Vailele Peko, the Moors had a sub.500 record and missed the playoffs.

MY TAKE: Cazarin no doubt is talented but he needs to implement the run in order to give Alhambra another much-needed dimension. And if the Moors have a talented Crockom playing they need to find him more than they did last season. For someone ranging 6-feet-3 one would think Crockom would get a lot more touches. Still, that wasn't the Moors problem last season. They had no rushing game whatsoever, not until the final two games of the season when they discovered Daniel Imaa. If Cazarin can limit the turnovers and find a way to connect more often with the talented Crockom, expect the Moors to make a return to the playoffs, albeit as the league's No. 2 representative behind San Gabriel.

5. GARRETT TUCK, ARCADIA, SENIOR

QUICK LOOK: Tuck completed 1,598 yards and threw for 15 touchdowns and had 18 interceptions. The Apaches didn't have the best season once Todd Golper went down with an injury, meaning the Apaches were suddenly had to rely on Tuck to carry the offense.

MY TAKE: Coach Jon Dimalante said they expect big things from Tuck, and so do I. When a team like Arcadia has a player like Golper, you hand him the rock. Unfortunately for the Apaches, Golper went down along with much of the Apaches' offense. But Tuck showed his resilience and didn't falter despite the turnovers. Arcadia is scheduled to participate in several passing tournaments which will prove beneficial for a guy like Tuck who knows he'll have a bigger role in the offense as the season approaches.

OTHERS: Conor Bednarski (South Pasadena); Rocky Moore (La Canada);

Coming soon: The top 5 running backs and wide receivers. But don't wait for me, start your own list in the latest Star-Jibber thread.

Contrary to popular belief, I am not taking off on a two-week vacation. I'm somewhat dreading the one-week vacation as it is. Still have no definite plans but I'm very spontaneous when it comes to these type of things. I already know I've got Vegas the last weekend of August and a wedding in September down in La Jolla. While I'm gone, do you have any suggestions on how we can try to keep this thing flowing? Remember, I leave Sunday and don't return until Aug. 10. Keith Lair doesn't have the keys to this blog. I'm thinking of asking Fred to post a thread once in a while just to keep you guys in sane. I know there's been limited action here. Some long-piece features have kept me busy. I can assure you once Hell Week is fully underway we'll get this thing back on track. For now, let me give you my official unofficial Top 5 returning football players in the WSGV.

Leading things off is my boy .....

1. DIETRICH RILEY, ST. FRANCIS, SR.

QUICK LOOK: Riley, who quickly caught the eye of USC, Alabama, Texas and Texas Tech among others, was a strong presence on both ends of the ball. He earned most valuable offensive honors in the Mission League after rushing for 1,034 yards and six touchdowns He anticipated plays well at defensive back and his speed was unmatched.

MY TAKE: One look at this kid and you can't help but go shopping for a couple footballs and a sharpie. This kid's legit and will be making some noise well after his high school and collegiate playing days. St. Francis might be too predictable with Riley in the backfield, which is why they're rotating him at several positions, which in the end may end up diminishing his role. Stick Riley at two (or three spots max) and you'll see why Riley's receiving so much buzz. Since the end of the season, Riley's fielded offers from Notre Dame and LSU. Any chance he becomes a Bruin?

2. MITCHELL CROCKOM, ALHAMBRA, SR.

QUICK LOOK: Crockom was part of the talented group of receivers who immediately caught the eye of opposing defenses. He caught 36 passes for 791 yards and six touchdowns and he also provided a strong presence on defense while playing defensive back. Crockom caught most of his yards while being double-teamed and at times triple-teamed, putting his athletic abilities on display in just about every down whether the ball was thrown to him or not.

MY TAKE: Memo to Darrian Cazarin: Throw more to this kid. 791 yards receiving and six touchdowns aren't exactly the numbers such an athletically-built player should have when it's all said and done. The hunch here is Crockom will have a breakout year and have well over 1,000 yards receiving and 10+ touchdowns. Alhambra will finish second in the Almont League and make a quarterfinals appearance come playoffs.

3. ISAAC VALDEZ, SAN GABRIEL, SR.

QUICK LOOK: Valdez completed almost 64 percent of his passes. He was the Star-News' first team All-Area quarterback after throwing for 2,754 yards and 16 touchdowns. The 5-foot-7 Valdez displayed his speed as well, rushing for nearly 700 yards and six touchdowns.

MY TAKE: Imagine the college scouts all over San Gabriel High if Valdez was 6-foot-3?!?! Heck, he'd like to be at least 5-foot-10, Valdez said to me once during the All-Area photo shoot. Nonetheless, Valdez has shown he has a rocket of an arm, each year improving on yards passing. He's not elusive but he is quick, making him a true threat for the Matadors which already boast a talented backfield. San Gabriel finished 5-6 overall and were ousted in the first round of the CIF-Southern Section playoffs, but you have to remember injuries plagued San Gabriel with the loss of Marcos Villalobos, who wasn't the same after separating his shoulder in the Alhambra game. Things are looking up for the Matadors. Keep an eye out on their offensive line. They won't exactly match Temple City's studs, but they'll be up there, meaning Valdez could have an even better season come Fall.

4. NICK BUENO, MONROVIA, JR.

QUICK LOOK: Bueno completed 55 percent of his passes and threw for 1,037 yards and had 10 touchdowns with just three interceptions. He rushed for 221 yards and three touchdowns as well. Bueno was instrumental in leading the Wildcats to the semifinals of the CIF-Southern Section Mid-Valley Division playoffs. Bueno also led Monrovia to a Rio Hondo League championship after an impressive 5-0 record in league.

MY TAKE: Bueno was thrown to the fire and the kid didn't disappoint. Monrovia took some bumps and bruises in mastering the Wing-T offense and though Marquis Williams was a big part of the offense's success, it was Bueno's dependability that grew as the season progressed, allowing the Wing-T offense to be effectively executed. Monrovia's one dimensional offense evolved when Bueno was given more responsibility. He's not quick but he is patient and mastered his way into finding options even when the pocket sometimes collapsed. Look for Bueno to have more responsibility in the offense with the absence of Marquis.

5. STEVIE YORTSOS, SAN MARINO, SR.

QUICK LOOK: The junior helped the Titans open the season with eight straight victories and an appearance in the CIF-Southern Section Mid-Valley Division playoffs. He caught 34 passes for 604 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging nearly 18 yards per catch. Yortsos was just as involved defensively, recording 35 tackles and seven interceptions.

MY TAKE: Quite a few players were up for the last and final spot (including Muir's Jarron Williams and Monrovia's Josh Lowden) but I'm feeling pretty high about Yortsos. His numbers above speak for itself, and with Joe Forgatch at quarterback we could see Yortsos having a breakout year as well. As scary as that may seem, Yortsos could be looking a lot stronger and dangerous on the defensive side. Yortsos and the Titans will be tested early. Soon we'll see if they respond.

... OK, maybe not an award-winning live blog segment, but fans who follow our local teams playing in championship games are never out of the loop with up-to-the-minute updates such as my live blogging from last season's CIF-Southern Section Division V baseball championship game pitting Maranatha vs. Woodcrest Christian.

That night, CIF-SS spokesman Thom Simmons informed me the Southern Section would soon take action and restrict live blogging this upcoming season. This much I had already seen coming since other high school sports governing bodies were doing the same in other states, a ruiling that will affect the way we cover sports in this ever-evolving digital era.

So, say goodbye to our live blogging. The Southern Section office released this statement today:

Each Credential Holder (including television, Internet, new media, and print publications) has the privilege to blog during competition through the Credential Entity.

However, the blog may not produce in any form a "real-time" description of the event. Real-time is defined by the CIF-SS as a continuous play-by-play account or live, extended live/real-time statistics, or detailed description of an event. Live-video/digital images or live audio are not permitted.

Each of the aforementioned descriptions is exclusive to the CIF-SS Web site and/or any other Web site designated by the CIF-SS and its rights holders.
Periodic updates of scores, statistics or other brief descriptions of the competition throughout the event are acceptable.

Credential Holder agrees that the determination of whether a blog is posting a real-time description shall be in the CIF-SS' sole discretion. If the CIF-SS deems that a Credential Holder is producing a real-time description of the contest, the CIF-SS reserves all actions against Credential Holder, including but not limited to the revocation of the credential.

If media intend to blog at a CIF-SS championship event, the media entity must indicate so through the credentialing process.

Any media entity posting a blog during a CIF-SS championship must submit a direct link to the blog to www.cifss.org. In return, all media entities entering a blog must post the CIF-SS logo/link on their site. All blogs must be free of charge to readers. All must adhere to the conditions and limitations of this CIF-SS Blogging Policy.

Video "blogging" of a CIF-SS event may not exceed more than 15 total minutes in duration and cannot include consecutive game action.

The CIF-SS and its designated championship personnel shall be the final authority on whether a Credential Holder or Credential Entity is following the CIF-SS Blogging Policy.

Gone are the days when the WSGV was heavy with stellar running backs. Marquise Williams, Tra Sumler and Todd Golper have since graduated, and Duarte's Jordan Canada transferred to South Hills. This year's list of the top running backs won't be as loaded but the five who make the list are ready to go on a tear. And if you really think about it, any list can start with the one and only Dietrich Riley.

1. Dietrich Riley, Senior, St. Francis -- Like my boy Jay-Z said in his "Black Album": What more can I say?

2. Max Ruckle, Senior, Temple City -- Ruckle is just as deserving to be at the top of the list. He rushed for 1,599 yards and 17 touchdowns. He averaged 123 yards per game last season for the Rams in nine games as a starter (including the playoffs). He rushed for at least 100 yards in each game. Joey Stewart was designated the starting running back to start last season and then came Ruckle stealing the spotlight. I wonder if Ruckle, now knowing he's the starting running back heading into camp, has a different mentality compared to last year when things were still a bit up in the air.

3. Fabian Amaro, Senior, San Gabriel -- Amaro was the second-leading rusher for the Matadors (five yards shy from Issac Valdez) with 610 yards and 11 touchdowns. He was limited to action because of injuries. If you thought San Gabriel was loaded with running backs last year (Arthur Brown was third on the depth chart) then you haven't seen nothing yet. Not only do the Matadors have Amaro, Brown and Valdez, but San Gabriel is expected to add another running back with the additino of a JV call-up.

4. D.J. Cole, Senior, Monrovia -- Rushed for 580 yards and had a season-high 121 yards and three touchdowns rushing, albeit against Blair. Cole was largely behind the shadow of the great Marquise Williams. But Cole's speed was evident early in the season, enough that Monrovia coach Ryan Maddox said Cole's presence gives the Wildcats' an added element to the rushing attack.

5. David Maldonado, Junior, Arcadia -- He rushed for only 354 yards all season but he was a late-season callup to the Apaches squad. He rushed for 198 yards against Hoover and 106 yards against Glendale. Sure, Glendale and Hoover are not the most inferior teams in the Southland, but for a sophomore with no varsity experience to come into a tough situation and help the starving Arcadia offense proves Maldonado was ready to take on the situation head-on.

Amid a wave of new world-records set at international competitions, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) followed suit with FINA, the international swimming federation, and has banned high-tech swimsuits in high school competition. The NFHS sent out a release earlier this afternoon.

INDIANAPOLIS -- High-tech swimsuits that have been linked to record performances at all levels of competition the past couple of years have been banned for high school competition, effective immediately.

The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Swimming and Diving Rules Committee approved changes to Rule 3-2-2 that will make the high-tech swimsuit no longer a legal suit for swimmers at the high school level. The committee's recommendations were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.

Effective immediately, swimmers shall be limited to one swimsuit, which shall be constructed of a woven/knit textile material, permeable to water and air, constructed so as not to aid in buoyancy, and shall not contain zippers or other fastening systems. In addition, the suit shall be constructed so that the style/shape for males shall not extend above the waist or below the top of the kneecap and for females shall not extend beyond the shoulders or below the top of the kneecap, and it shall not cover the neck.

"These high-tech suits had fundamentally altered the sport and become more similar to equipment, rather than a uniform," said Becky Oakes, NFHS assistant director and liaison to the Swimming and Diving Rules Committee. "The rules of swimming have always prohibited the use or wearing of items that would aid in the swimmer's speed and/or buoyancy. The technical suits and styles had evolved to a point where there was little, if any, compliance with these basic rules," Oakes said.

The committee discussed the high-tech swimsuit issue at its meeting in March, but did not have enough factual information to take action at that time.

"With new developments in the swimming community, the committee knew that in order to preserve the integrity, tradition and heritage of the sport, as well as protect and enhance the interscholastic swimming program, these new requirements were necessary to promote fair play and the educational values of high school and could not wait for another year," Oakes said. "The immediate implementation date, including style, will help guarantee fairness in competition throughout the high school swimming seasons and allow meet officials to fairly and consistently enforce the rule."

Swimming/diving ranks eighth in popularity for girls with 147,197 participants in 6,766 schools, according to the NFHS 2007-08 High School Athletics Participation Survey. The sport ranks 10th among boys sports with 111,896 participants in 6,428 schools.

Last week was the first vacation I'd taken in five years. Please, don't ever let me go through that again! While it was fun sleeping in, catching up on every episode of "Entourage" and enjoying empty movie theaters during the day while the rest of the world is at work, I'm ready to start cranking out the football preview section. At least that's what I had in mind before I arrived to my desk and found no internet connection. I called I.T. and they said they couldn't do anything about it until next week. Awesome! Sounds like someone wants to slow me down, but it ain't gonna work. After finally figuring out my password to log onto this blog I'm ready to make phone calls and feed you guys with football news. If there's anything specific you want me to get at be sure to leave a comment and I'll hunt down the news for yall.

This "welcome back" note isn't exactly the red carpet rollout I had in mind, but it'll do from Blog Mayor Goldenarm:

MIGUEL,

I know you said no way you were getting married on your vacation, but police reports pieced together from various desert communities indicate the following:

1. Apparently, you broke all "man laws" and went on a blind date.

2.Drank 1/2 gallon of Patron, ate two racks of oysters, took a 100mg little blue pill. Started feeling really good.

3.Hailed a yellow cab, demanded a ride to Stateline Nevada. Dropped to one knee, proposing marriage to the beautiful girl with a Marine's jaw line, happy, oh so happy, when she smiled and in a husky, james earl jones kind of voice saying, saying Yes, Yes!

4.Called Robledo on your cell from the cab backseat, asking him for Webster's definition of TRANS - VEST- TITE...and to stand up as your best man once you made it to Whiskey Pete's

5.Cab blew a tire near the big thermometer at Baker and something snapped in your head. The driver stepped out to check the tire, and scrolled on the back of his jacket was "Mid-Valley News"...then it hit you, Hell Week is here! What am I doing? You ran from the vehicle like the old defensive back you claim to be...with Teresa the Tranny in hot pursuit..yelling desperately for her Latin lover - with only the lonely desert moon as witness.

6. Sometime near daybreak as you stumbled along some lost highway that intersects US 15, you were picked up by a busload of Amat alumni, returning from the annual conference on Delusional Fanatic Football Supporters.

WELCOME BACK.

While Miguel's on vacation, I'm sharing the top ten serious and not-so-serious things football teams can do to increase newspaper coverage...

1. Thursday Night Games: This is what the mid-major's do for national exposure, and it works in our backyard too. Highly recommended for teams that normally feel slighted on Friday night's by the more traditional schools.

2. Schedule Muir/St. Francis: This is sort of a joke, but also has a ring of truth to it. When an area teams takes on the best the area has to offer, its newsworthy.

3. Programs/Rosters: What will inevitably happen the first full week of football games is that half our reporters will return to the office complaining that schools not only don't have programs, they forget rosters. If you're going to charge $5 bucks to get into the stadium, the least you can do is provide fans/writers with names to go with the numbers.

4. Non-League rivalries: Not enough of these anymore. You have the Smudge Pot: Bonita-San Dimas; MD Classic: Duarte-Monrovia, and whatever Temple City vs. Arroyo is called, but we need more of these. In other words, when will Muir and St. Francis sign the contract.

5. Earlier kick-off times: This is why you see reporters running off the field after the final whistle. Those who traditionally play 7:30 p.m., football games will have a rough time making our deadlines this season. If you're shocked that some games miss the newspaper entirely, it's probably because the game ran late and missed deadline. Our deadlines are nearly two hours earlier than they were a decade ago, so 7 p.m., games and (can I ask) 6:30 p.m., games are strongly encouraged.

6. Scheduling Upgrade: Nobody is asking that you go crazy and schedule like Muir did earlier this decade, but upgrading the schedule against traditional locals or Southland giants is always appealing.

7. Quotable: Coaches and players who don't make us wait long after games and aren't afraid to speak their mind go to the front of the line.

8. Snack Bar: We don't accept free food, but we take donations (hint, hint).

9. Parking: Time is precious. For those stadiums impossible to get out quick, reserve a spot close to an exit for your hometown newspaper.

10. Stats: Our annual reminder for coaches to upgrade stats on MaxPreps. Stop hiding and saying you don't want to be scouted, stats are for the many fans that follow your programs, and for the newspapers that desperately need them to keep track of what's going on.

Here's the deal, we're always looking for correspondents to cover Friday night football games, and since all the experts reside here, I thought I'd start with you. We generally don't ask that you write too much, and in some cases will just ask that you call in the box score with a recap of the game. You will receive a press pass to cover the games from the sidelines or in the press box, and be paid a small fee for your time. If you're a journalism major or thinking about it, this is ideal. If you're a football junkie who can spell, this will be great for you also. To be considered, please send an email with your contact information to set up an interview.
miguel.melendez@sgvn.com