September 2010 Archives

Fred J says: You want reality, Monrovia's 28-25 victory over South Hills means the Huskies could finish 1-9, maybe 2-8 or 3-7 at best. They would have trouble with the best in the Hacienda, so imagine what awaits in the Sierra, not to mention another non-leaguer against Los Osos. Truth is, they're not the bad, they're still better than most teams in the Valley, but clearly not among the area's elite. They can score, but they give up a lot of points too, a trend that could continue with a youthful defense and unforgiving schedule. Also, Monrovia is pretty darn good, it won't surprise me at all if they go unbeaten the rest of the way and win the Mid-Valley title. They took a 28-17 lead into the fourth quarter after blowing a 21-point fourth-quarter lead last week to San Dimas. That means gut-check time, and they showed their guts. After South Hills scored and made the conversion to cut it to 28-25 with four minutes left, the Cat's faced a fourth-and-inches at their own 29 with just over two minutes left. They didn't punt, they let their offense win it, getting a game-clinching first down. That was a way of saying, what happened last week won't happen again. M-Town, this is what you needed, watch how it paves the way for better things to come. -- FJR

The Inland Insider providing postgame highlights and video interviews.

Alhambra High School on Sunday will induct 11 former players and coaches into the 2010 Athletes Hall of Fame. Among them is Joe Petralia (above) who coached the Moors boys basketball team from 1996 to 2009. He also coached the boys golf team.

Keppel boys basketball coach Hung Duong (pictured below) also will be inducted. The Alhambra alum recently led the Aztecs to their best season in school history, reaching the semifinals of the CIF-SS Division 2A semifinals and an appearance in the CIF State playoffs.

Sunday's noon luncheon will feature keynote speaker Darrall Imhoff (Class of 1955). Darrall was a member of the 1960 USA Olympic Basketball Team that was just enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in August of 2010.

More than 150 attended the 2008 luncheon and the committee expects to top that figure this year. The location will be at Almansor Court (Lakeview Room, 700 S. Almansor Street, Alhambra).

The cost is $35 per person. You can call 626.570.499 for more information. Checks can be made payable to Alhambra Athletes Reunion and can be sent to Alhambra Athletes Reunion c/o Alhambra Chamber of Commerce (104 South First STreet, Alhambra, CA. 626.282.8481)

2010 Hall of Fame Inductees

*"Pop" Horne, Tennis coach
Tony Morabito ('47) Football
*John Patrick (1948-65) Football coach
Ed Mohr ('49) Football
*Chuck Reilly ('51) Basketball
Dan Arens ('54) Baseball
Eddie Keenan ('57) Baseball
John Venti ('58) Baseball
Hung Duong ('90) Basketball
Kristen Welsh ('96) Basketball
Joe Petralia (1996-09) Basketball coach
*--Postumously

Above: Kevon Seymour against Bishop Amat last week. He hurt his ankle in that game.

Muir's bye last week couldn't have come at a better time.

They used the time to recover from injuries suffered in Week 1 against Saugus and in Week 2 against Bishop Amat.

Senior lineman Danny Huerta fractured his fibula in the offseason and was limited during fall camp. He was thought to be ready for the Bishop Amat game, but tweaked his right leg in practice the day before the game. Senior quarterback Jeffrey Davis suffered an apparent asthma attack against Saugus and senior wide receiver Kevon Seymour tweaked an ankle against Bishop Amat. Senior Daityevon McFadden had stitches removed from his right before the Saugus game, but had got banged up against Bishop Amat.

"The hand held up well," Muir coach Ken Howard said. "Two weeks off worked out great. It ended up being nine days of stress-free practice.

Davis showed good movement and is expected to return Friday when Muir (1-2) hosts Burbank.

McFadden and Seymour also are expected to return to the starting lineup, but Huerta still is somewhat in question.

"It depends on how many minutes he can give us," Howard said. "He wants to play, but right now he hasn't played contact sport for a while. He's still sore.

"So we thought we'd sit him out another week and get him stronger. We're going to see what kind of brace we'll put on it so he can get around on it."

The penalties kept piling up but when Rosemead High School's 21-7 victory over San Marino was complete, Panthers football coach Matt Koffler showed no frustration.

"I don't really get upset at trying penalties," Koffler said after learning Rosemead (2-1) was flagged 11 times. "They try hard and they're getting hard after (plays). It's just part of the game. We'll take it and keep our hands inside a little bit (next time)."

Matt Macias' 33-yard touchdown pass to Christian Garcia with 5:58 left in the second quarter was brought back after the Panthers were called for a false start. The Panthers twice were relegated to field goal attempts in the fourth quarter after penalties stalled drives.

Rosemead was in good position, starting at its 48 with 1:30 left in the third quarter. Two holding penalties negated first-down conversions and the Panthers had to try a 47-yard field goal, which was wide. A 51-yard field goal attempt was short with 3:28 left in the fourth quarter. That drive went 10 plays starting at the Panthers 43 with 6:51 on the clock.

Making the call

Koffler decided to go for it on fourth-and-6 at the San Marino 39 with just more than seven minutes left in the second quarter. Rosemead running back Matt Fregoso took the snap and ran it near the Titans 33. San Marino players and coaches celebrated what appeared to be a stop and takeover on downs. But when the measuring sticks came out, Fregoso had converted the first down by millimeters, much to the dismay of the San Marino coaching staff that thought the spot was rather generous.
Nevertheless, Koffler's call paid dividends.

"It was something we just needed," he said. "A little spark. We just needed to score points."

Fregoso scored six plays later when he broke away from tacklers for a 21-yard touchdown with 4:26 left in the half.

MID-VALLEY DIVISION
Rank School (League) Record Result Opponent Score
1. Whittier Christian (Olympic) 4-0 Won St. Margaret's 38-26
2. Azusa (Montview) 3-0 Won Gabrielino 34-0
3. Arroyo (Mission Valley) 3-1 Lost Hart 3-44
4. San Dimas (Valle Vista) 2-2 Won Monrovia 35-34 (OT)
5. Monrovia (Rio Hondo) 1-2 Lost San Dimas 34-35 (OT)
6. Village Christian (Olympic) 3-1 Won Bernstein (LA) 81-6
7. Sierra Vista (Montview) 3-0 Won Mark Keppel 42-12
8. San Marino (Rio Hondo) 2-1 Lost Rosemead 7-21
9. Covina (Valle Vista) 3-1 Lost Walnut 42-49 (OT)
10. South Pasadena (Rio Hondo) 3-0 Won Glendale 27-21
Other: Maranatha (Olympic) 3-1 Won Salesian 29-28
Other: Schurr (Almont) 1-2 Won El Toro 29-28
Other: Pomona (Valle Vista) 3-1 Lost Chino Hills 13-48
Other: La Puente (Montview) 2-1 Lost Wilson/Hacienda Heights 20-36
Other: Bell Gardens (Almont) 1-2 Lost Cantwell Sacred-Heart 46-56
Other: Vallley Christian/C. (Olympic) 1-3 Lost Mayfair 7-18

NORTHEAST DIVISION
Rank School (League) Record Result Opponent Score
1. Bishop Union (High Desert) 3-0 Won Rim of the World 31-21
2. Chadwick (Prep) 3-0 Won Kern Valley 20-7
3. Boron (Desert Mountain) 4-0 Won Rio Hondo Prep 36-28
4. Vasquez (Desert Mountain) 4-0 Won Mojave 34-6
5. Salesian (Santa Fe) 3-1 Lost Maranatha 28-29
6. Rio Hondo Prep (Prep) 2-1 Lost Boron 28-36
7. Desert Christian/L. (Desert Mountain) 3-1 Won Silver Valley 42-0
8. Pasadena Poly (Prep) 2-2 Lost Sierra Canyon 28-31
9. St. Genevieve (Santa Fe) 3-1 Won Marshall 21-20
10. Hamilton (Arrowhead) 3-1 Won CSDR 43-22
Other: Bellarmine-Jefferson (Santa Fe) 2-2 Won Malibu 39-14
Other: Mammoth (Desert Mountain) 2-1 Won Calvary Murrieta 10-7
Other: Viewpoint (Prep) 2-1 Lost Villanova Prep 15-36
Other: Mojave (Desert Mountain) 2-2 Lost Vasquez 6-34
Other: Kern Valley (High Desert) 1-3 Lost Chadwick 7-20
Other: St. Monica (Santa Fe) 2-2 Lost Brentwood 18-33

NORTHWEST DIVISION
Rank School (League) Record Result Opponent Score
1. Nordhoff (Tri-Valley) 4-0 Won Ventura 26-20
2. Cantwell Sacred-Heart (Del Rey) 3-0 Won Bell Gardens 56-46
3. El Segundo (Pioneer) 4-0 Won West Torrance 36-10
4. Fillmore (Tri-Valley) 4-0 Won Frazier Mountain 48-7
5. South Torrance (Pioneer) 2-1 Lost Palos Verdes 17-29
6. Oak Park (Tri-Valley) 2-1 Won Don Lugo 21-7
7. Bosco Tech (Del Rey) 3-1 Won Santiago/Garden Grove 37-10
8. Templeton (Los Padres) 2-2 Lost Righetti 6-34
9. Santa Ynez (Los Padres) 1-2 Lost Carpinteria 14-24
10. No. Torrance (Pioneer) 2-2 Lost San Pedro (LA) 28-31 (OT)
Other: Lompoc (Los Padres) 2-2 Lost Dos Pueblos 21-45
Other: Carpinteria (Tri-Valley) 2-1 Won Santa Ynez 24-14
Other: Verbum Dei (Del Rey) 2-2 Won Blair 52-13
Other: St. Bernard (Del Rey) 2-2 Won Lawndale 43-36
Other: Bishop Montgomery (Del Rey) 2-2 Won Laguna Beach 48-18
Other: Santa Maria (Los Padres) 2-2 Won Mission Prep 27-0

SOUTHEAST DIVISION
Rank School (League) Record Result Opponent Score
1. West Covina (Hacienda) 3-1 Won Glendora 33-28
2. Burbank (Pacific) 2-1 Bye
3. Bonita (Hacienda) 4-0 Won Baldwin Park 29-0
4. Rowland (Hacienda) 3-1 Lost Claremont 21-24
5. Norwalk (Suburban) 2-2 Won Morningside 44-14
6. La Serna (Del Rio) 3-1 Won La Mirada 32-28
7. Muir (Pacific) 1-2 Bye
8. Diamond Bar (Hacienda) 4-0 Won Brea Olinda 31-28
9. Diamond Ranch (Hacienda) 1-3 Won Chaffey 21-14
10. Santa Fe (Del Rio) 1-2 Lost Esperanza 7-21
Other: La Mirada (Suburban) 1-3 Lost La Serna 28-3
Other: El Rancho (Del Rio) 3-1 Won Montebello 29-9
Other: Walnut (Hacienda) 2-1 Won Covina 49-42 (OT)
Other: Hoover (Pacific) 1-2 Won Mountain View 45-38
Other: Bellflower (Suburban) 3-1 Won Troy 40-30
Other: Mayfair (Suburban) 1-3 Won Valley Christian/Cerritos 18-7

WESTERN DIVISION
Rank School (League) Record Result Opponent Score
1. Serra (Mission) 4-0 Won Peninsula 48-7
2. Chaminade (Mission) 3-0 Won Fairfax (LA) 42-13
3. Dominguez (San Gabriel Valley) 3-1 Won Jordan/Long Beach 28-0
4. St. Francis (Mission) 3-0 Won Venice (LA) 31-13
5. Culver City (Ocean) 3-0 Won Redondo Union 21-17
6. Arroyo Grande (PAC-7) 4-0 Won Cabrillo/Lompoc 35-14
7. Gahr (San Gabriel Valley) 3-1 Won Artesia 54-6
8. Atascadero (PAC-7) 4-0 Won Seaside (CS) 30-13
9. Beverly Hills (Ocean) 3-0 Won Hamilton 36-7
10. Cathedral (Mission) 3-0 Won West Adams Prep 45-37
Other: Oxnard (Pacific View) 2-1 Won Buena 14-12
Other: Santa Monica (Ocean) 2-1 Lost Villa Park 29-35
Other: Harvard/Westlake (Mission) 2-1-1 Won Sylmar (LA) 24-14
Other: St. Joseph/SM (PAC-7) 2-1 Won Mater Dei (SD) 48-
Other: St. Paul (Mission) 2-1 Won Garfield (LA) 24-10

By Aram Tolegian, Staff Writer

A lot is still up in the air about the quarterback situation at Charter Oak High School. But one thing that's for certain is senior Josiah Thropay will be under center for the Chargers on Friday night against Santa Fe.

That's because normal starter Travis Santiago is sidelined with an ankle injury that nobody quite knows the extent of how bad it is. Santiago suffered the injury on the second-to-last play of Friday's loss to Rancho Cucamonga.

CLICK ON THREAD TO CONTINUE READING

Ike Ditzenberger, a junior at Snohomish (Wash.) High School who has Down Syndrome, achieved a major milestone on Friday in a game against Lake Stevens, running 51 yards for a touchdown with 10 seconds remaining. The "Ike Special" provided the only points in Snohomish's 35-6 loss. It was the first varsity touchdown in Ditzenberger's career, a ramble through an opposing defense that mirrors the end to Snohomish practices every day, when Ditzenberger gets the final run of practice and somehow finds the end zone, through a combination of running guile and intentionally passive defenders.

Monrovia vs. South Hills at Covina District Field, 7 p.m.

Rosemead at San Gabriel, 7 p.m.

The Stang Fan and I will go head-to-head this week. Still no bet on what the loser has to do...

Melendez: 10-8 last week; total 43-19
Stang Fan: 13-5 last week; total 46-16

Last week was a disaster for me. Say what you want about my picks (John Wayne, Realist). This week is tough. My birthday is Thursday, and if mom finds out I went to a football game instead of dinner at her house this blog may be "From The Sidelines" with someone else. I'm sure some of you (John Wayne, Realist) would like that, but I digress. I'm planning on doing both Thursday. Should be a great game, but as you'll see in a two-minute drill video later today, I'm picking South Hills for several reasons. As for Friday, there's still a toss up with who gets our game of the week honors. Your call. Nice to see Arcadia swing into Pacific League action. The Apaches start league play 1-0 with their win over Pasadena, and it is when they'll show how good they really are.

Thursday's Game
Monrovia vs. South Hills at Covina District Field, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (South Hills)

Friday's Games
San Gabriel at Rosemead, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Rosemead)
Alhambra at South Pasadena, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (South Pasadena)
Maranatha at La Canada, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (La Canada)
Arcadia at Pasadena, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Arcadia)
Burbank at Muir, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Muir)
Bell Gardens at San Marino, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (San Marino)
Temple City at South El Monte, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (SEM)
St. Francis vs. West Ranch at Valencia, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (St. Francis)
Bosco Tech at La Salle, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Bosco Tech)
Sierra Vista at Duarte, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Sierra Vista)
L.A. Roybal at Gabrielino, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Gabrielino)
Keppel at Mountain View, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Mnt. View)
Malibu vs. Flintridge Prep at Occidental, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Flint. Prep)

Saturday's Games
Paraclete vs. Marshall at Pasadena HS, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Paraclete)
St. Monica vs. Blair at Muir, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Blair)

Monrovia vs. San Dimas Highlights

CLICK HERE FOR A PHOTO GALLERY FROM FRIDAY'S ROSEMEAD-SAN MARINO GAME

CLICK HERE FOR OTHER SAN GABRIEL VALLEY SCORES

Friday's Scores
Rosemead 21, San Marino 7 -- Matt Fregoso rushed for 233 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Panthers. Rosemead was marred by penalties, 11 to be exact. The flags negated long plays or delayed long scoring drives for Rosemead. Frustration set in for San Marino late in the second half when a scuffle broke out, resulting in the ejection of San Marino's Manny Vargas and Rosemead's Mike Chavez.

San Dimas 35, Monrovia 34, OT -- Cody Watts accounted for four touchdowns to lead the Saints. Nick Bueno's 1-yard run attempt for a two-point conversion in overtime was the end for the Wildcats. San Dimas trailed 28-7 heading in the fourth, scored 21 unanswered points and won in overtime. I'm shocked. Absolutely shocked.

Arcadia 42, Temple City 14 -- Arcadia quarterback Myles Carr accounted for four touchdowns and the Apaches scored on six consecutive possessions starting in the second quarter all the way to the fourth. Temple City did not have a passing yard until the fourth quarter, and two shotgun snaps late in the first half that went over quarterback Mikel Quintanilla set up two Arcadia scores.

South Pasadena 27, Glendale 21 -- The game went back and forth with South Pasadena narrowly staying ahead. It started with the Tigers off to a 14-0 lead after the first quarter. It was 14-7 at the half, and Glendale only had four yards of offense in the first half. It went 14-13, 21-13, Glendale tied it 21-21 in the fourth before Matt Nelson caught a 20-yard pass from quarterback Conor Bednarski. South Pasadena running back Patrick Martin had 23 carries for 136 yards, 103 yards of which came in the second half.

Pasadena 33, La Salle 16 -- Andreece Brown had 25 carries for 124 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Bulldogs to their first win. Cleo Bates rushed for 107 yards and one touchdown. Classy moment of the night: With 1:04 left in the game and a 10-point lead, Pasadena decides to go for it on first-and-10 at the Lancers' 13-yard line.

San Gabriel 27, Contreras 6 -- Matadors QB Andy Guerrero rushed for 156 yards and passed for 135 yards to give Jude Oliva his first win as head coach. Guerrero started in place of sophmore Eric Alvarez.

St. Francis 31, Venice 13 -- The St. Francis defense came up huge in its win, forcing five turnovers which came in the form of four fumbles and one interception. Michael Singlyn added two sacks for the defense. Quarterback Brett Nelson finished 12-of-17 for 224 yards and three touchdowns. Travis Talianko was Nelson's big target with eight catches for 178 yards and two touchdowns.

Crescenta Valley 38, La Canada 34 -- Marro Lee rushed for 235 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Falcons at Glendale High. He took the third play from the scrimmage 63 yards, setting up the score. He scored the game-winning touchdown with 48 seconds left, a 19-yard run. Spartans quarterback Scott Gray passed for 176 yards, but was intercepted with 46 seconds left in the game. He scored four touchdowns, all on runs.

Sierra Vista 42, Keppel 12 -- The Aztecs could not stop the Dons run game, who piled up 308 yards on 28 carries and four touchdowns. Keppel's scoring came on an 80-yard pass on a fake field punt from Walter Ortiz to Adrian Portillo. Sierra Vista scored on its first play and the Aztecs answered with an 80-yard drive, but that's as close as Keppel would get.

Alhambra 20, L.A. Wilson 20 -- The Moors were missing a slew of players for disciplinary reasons. At one point, Alhambra coach Lou Torres was playing six sophomores on defense. Still, the Moors marched into Wilson territory and came away with the victory.

OTHER SCORES

St. Genevieve 21, Marshall 20
Bosco Tech 37, Santiago 10
Boron 30, Rio Hondo Prep 21
Campbell Hall 33, Flintirdge Prep 14

Saturday's Games
Sierra Canyon at Pasadena Poly, 1 p.m. -- Melendez (Poly); Stang Fan (Sierra)
Maranatha at Salesian, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Salesian); Stang Fan (Salesian)
Blair vs. Verbum Dei at Muir, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Blair); Stang Fan (Verbum Dei)

Muir basketball coach Gamal Smalley did a fantastic job documenting the Mustangs' practices and games in his first season as coach in 2009. He's doing the same this year, and begins 2010 with video from Muir's fall practice with a behind-the-scenes video as they prepare for the season.

Above: Anthony White during football practice at Buena Park High. (Courtesy photo)

When I worked at the Orange County Register I made sure to religiously read certain writers at our paper. Among them was Jeff Miller, a general sports columnist. It's not often Miller -- one of the best columnists in the country -- writes about high school sports, but Buena Park's football team certainly caught his attention. All you have to do is read the first few paragraphs, and the story captivates you. Regardless of your opinion on White's short stint at Temple City, you'll want to read this. If this story doesn't move you, nothing else will.

The words come out of a dark silhouette, detailing a story of abuse, of seeing Dad, drunk and raging, beat Mom, until he could force himself between the two, turning the incensed old man back into the night.

The room is still and faintly black, the shadows meant to blur the speaker's features and sharpen the listeners' attention. The kid stands alone and talks, his voice wavering, his story a cold, straight line.

OK, next. Now a second boy is up, sharing his details. One by one they rise and offer something about themselves, their home life, their situation. The stories almost always begin with unsettling confessions - a scab ripped raw - and end with building tears. A group of high schoolers sitting in a classroom, a place where growth is supposed to happen.

So, this, this is part of coaching football? Hearing kids tell tales of domestic violence and drug-addicted parents and nights spent homeless? It is here, at Buena Park, where they have all sorts of situations.

Click here to read Miller's column with a photo gallery

Flintridge Prep's Kenyatta Smith, a 6-foot-8, 255-pound center, has committed to Harvard. The senior who averaged 16.6 points, 9.3 rebounds and 4.1 blocks per game as a junior said he planned on visiting other schools, but put that to rest after visiting Harvard. Smith added that he wasn't concerned with Harvard's lack of success on the court, saying "We haven't had a lot of history of winning, but that's what I want to be a part of."

Is it a down year in football? I don't know. But there are some teams whose records are not indicative of how strong they can and will be this 2010 season. The team that most comes to mind is Arcadia. I've said it since summer and through fall camp: the Apaches are the darkhorse of the Pacific League and will definitely surprise some folks. Arcadia will earn its first win of the season Friday at Temple City. Same goes for San Gabriel, which should see its confidence rocket after it beats Contreras.

STAR-NEWS TOP 10 RANKINGS

1. ST. FRANCIS (2-0) -- The Golden Knights have always had a strong Mission League schedule, but we now know it's possible that it can be even tougher. When St. Francis heads to the playoffs they'll definitely have earned it after playing the likes of Serra, Cathedral and Harvard-Westlake. The big test comes Friday when the Golden Knights host Venice, and a St. Francis win certainly solidifies its standing as the top-ranked team in the West San Gabriel Valley.

2. MONROVIA (1-1) -- The Monrovia team we all saw Friday night against Arcadia is the team we all expected would show up. I said it before, the Wildcats' five turnovers is uncharacteristic on their part. Monrovia has some penalties to clean up, but overall proved powerful on both sides of the ball. You can bet the team has circled Sept. 24 since losing to San Dimas in the Mid-Valley Division championship game. I would be absolutely shocked if Monrovia lets this one get away.

3. MUIR (1-2) -- Thank goodness for a bye week. Muir is reeling from injuries. Its roster is depleted and bodies are scarce. This bye couldn't have come at a better time. Again, the Mustangs are another team that, should they stay healthy, could make a run back atop the Pacific League.

4. SAN MARINO (2-0) -- What else can you say? Losing junior RB Kwame Do is going to be a big loss for the Titans. But as San Marino coach Mike Mooney likes to say, this is an opportunity for others to step up and shine when the moment presents itself. Now's that moment.

5. LA CANADA (2-0) -- Definitely not surprised by the Spartans' 2-0 start and you shouldn't be surprised when they beat Crescenta Valley on Friday. La Canada has the discipline needed to execute the little things. It's a trickle effect that resonates throughout.

6. ROSEMEAD (1-1) -- Matt Fregoso is a beast. He was tough to handle last year in the first round of the Mid-Valley Division playoffs and he'll be tough to handle Friday when the Panthers visit San Marino.

7. ARCADIA (0-2) -- Turnovers and lack of execution in the red zone did the Apaches two weeks ago against St. Francis, and against Monrovia turnovers again proved to be too much to overcome. Arcadia QB Myles Carr was rattled last week by Monrovia's powerful defensive line. The pressure proved to be too much for Carr to stay in the pocket. He was sacked half a dozen times, but when rolling out Carr put his speed on display. He'll need more of that when the pocket collapses, though I don't anticipate that happening Friday.

8. SOUTH PASADENA (2-0) -- The Tigers probably won't be tested until two weeks from now when it it hosts Cathedral. Talk about improving the nonleague schedule. Nevertheless, it's refreshing to see the Tigers enjoy success. I wouldn't be surprised if South Pasadena heads into Rio Hondo League play with a 3-1 record.

9. ALHAMBRA (1-2) -- The Moors recorded a nice win last week over Temple City, but their problems are far from over. There's a big need for consistency from the run production. Until that happens, Alhambra will struggle stringing wins together. The Moors' schedule will allow for one easy win this season (Keppel) but the rest are not a given.

10. SAN GABRIEL (0-3) -- I'll say it now, if the Matadors lose to Contreras then it's time to hit the panic button. Having said that, I don't see how San Gabriel will lose to a team that lost handily to Bosco Tech. Eric Alvarez started at quarterback for the Matadors, then we saw Andy Guerrero make a cameo and made the most of his opportunity, passing for 148 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for another. San Gabriel still lost to Burbank, 44-26, but it was nice to see the Matadors swinging as the Bulldogs nearly lost their 37-point lead.

This has me thinking, how many of our schools actually have mascots? Alhambra, Maranatha, Monrovia, Pasadena Poly. Anyone else?

The Associated Press

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio University has apologized to Ohio State and its fans after the school's Bobcat mascot tackled the Brutus Buckeye mascot, touching off an impromptu wrestling match before Saturday's game at Ohio Stadium.

In addition, the student who was dressed in the Bobcat costume has been banned from any further affiliation with Ohio athletics.

The Bobcat first went after Brutus as the OSU mascot led the Buckeyes onto the field for the game.

Moments later, the Bobcat mascot climbed on the back of Ohio State's mascot and rode him to the ground. The two then tussled in the end zone while fans booed.

An e-mail sent by Ohio's assistant athletic director for media relations, Jason Corriher, said the department does not condone such behavior and regretted the negative effect of the mascot's actions on the relationship between the two schools.

You hate to report on this kind of news, especially after the marvelous game San Marino's Kwame Do had against La Salle.

The junior running back is all but done for the season as we reported here Friday night. San Marino coach Mike Mooney said the sideline evaluation pointed to a torn ACL. Do was admitted to the emergency room Friday night and underwent X-Rays, which indicated there were no fractures. Do will undergo an MRI on Tuesday.

"We'll have more of a definitive answer then," Mooney said. "But we are planning on him being shut down for the season."

Do rushed for 223 yards on 12 carries and scored a touchdown before suffering the right knee injury five minutes into the third quarter. Do did not carry the ball in the third quarter.

Do was intercepted a pass in the third quarter. He tried to break free from a tackle, but when he planted his right leg it buckled, landing in an awkward position.

"I had a bad feeling as the play unfolded," said Mooney on Friday night. "I saw his knee buckle."

San Marino plays host to Rosemead in Week 3. Do's loss is a blow to the Titans, particularly on offense, which Do accounted for the majority of production with 414 yards rushing and four touchdowns.

Mooney and the Titans now have to figure out how to replace that kind of output for an offense that heavily relied on Do's prowess.

"The first thing is nobody likes to see injuries in football," Mooney said. "We know it's the nature of the game. When it happens it's devastating. The first thought is we're all bummed for our teammate and a great kid who wanted to have fun and play football. So there's some emotional stuff we have to deal with as a team.

"Beyond that, we can't sit around and lick our wounds that long because we have to play some football. Some other guys are going to have to step up and play more significant roles than they have."

Morgan Myers and Ryan Wood will rotate time in the backfield. Both have seen plenty of time in two games this season. Their run style is different.

"He's a hard runner," Mooney said. "He's a different kind of runner in that he's not the elusive grinder. He's more the attitude, hammer runner."

Myers, also a starting linebacker with a significant role on special teams, has 21 carries for 69 yards and two touchdowns. Wood has nine carries for 189 yards and two touchdowns.

"Those guys will have to assume the role and leadership running the ball," Mooney said.

Do's absence also means junior quarterback Garret Glazier will have to develop quicker than planned.

"The game plan is to always ease the new quarterback along," Mooney said, "but we may just have to up the timetable on asking him to do more things for us."

Melendez: 14-3 last week; total 33-11
Stang Fan: 17-0 last week; total 33-11

Well well well. Look at Stang Fan clawing his way back to forge a tie as we head into Week 3. It's all good. I put my money on San Gabriel, Santa Maria and Flintridge Prep. In all honesty, I probably should have been 16-1 because for the life of me I can't recall why I picked Santa Maria and Flintridge Prep. But I really did think San Gabriel would come away with the win. Strong preseason, for sure.

There's a lot of good candidates for player of the week honors, and where to begin?

Gabrielino's Eddie Moreno rushed for 154 yards on five carries, returned two punts for touchdowns on 74- and 76 yards, recorded two receptions for 27 yards, threw for an 18-yard touchdown pass for a total of 4 touchdowns and 339 all-purpose yards.

Maranatha's Jeremy Major had 230 yards of total offense. He recorded five receptions for 101 yards, two touchdowns on punt returns for 123 total yards for a total of four touchdowns.

St. Francis quarterback Brett Nelson completed 13 of 22 passes for 187 yards and three touchdowns.

Monrovia's Nick Bueno completed 11 of 17 passes for 196 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 204 yards on 12 carries with two touchdowns, scoring on runs of 53 and 78 yards. Bueno also connected twice with Jay Henderson with 20- and 13-yard scores.

San Marino's Kwame Do rushed for 101 yards in the first quarter alone for 223 yards on 12 carries on the night.

I could really use your help here.

Thursday's Game
Gabrielino vs. Azusa at Citrus College, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Azusa); Stang Fan (Azusa)

Friday's Games
Rosemead at San Marino, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Rosemead); Stang Fan (San Marino)
Monrovia at San Dimas, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Monrovia); Stang Fan (Monrovia)
Arcadia at Temple City, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Arcadia); Stang Fan (Arcadia)
Glendale at South Pasadena, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (South Pasadena); Stang Fan (South Pas)
Pasadena at La Salle, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (La Salle); Stang Fan (Pasadena)
L.A. Contreras at San Gabriel, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (San Gabriel); Stang Fan (Contreras)
Venice at St. Francis, 7:30 p.m. -- Melendez (St. Francis); Stang Fan (St. Francis)
La Canada vs. Crescenta Valley at Glendale, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (LC); Stang Fan (CV)
Sierra Vista at Keppel, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Sierra Vista); Stang Fan (Sierra Vista)
Marshall vs. St. Genevieve at Pasadena, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (St. Genevieve); Stang Fan (St.G)
Santiago at Bosco Tech, 4 p.m. -- Melendez (Santiago/GG); Stang Fan (Santiago/GG)
Boron at Rio Hondo Prep, 7:30 p.m. -- Melendez (RHP); Stang Fan (Boron)
Flintridge Prep at Campbell Hall -- Melendez (Campbell Hall); Stang Fan (Campbel Hall)
Duarte at Littlerock, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Littlerock); Stang Fan (Littlerock)
Alhambra at L.A. Wilson, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Alhambra); Stang Fan (Alhambra)

Saturday's Games
Sierra Canyon at Pasadena Poly, 1 p.m. -- Melendez (Poly); Stang Fan (Sierra)
Maranatha at Salesian, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Salesian); Stang Fan (Salesian)
Blair vs. Verbum Dei at Muir, 7 p.m. -- Melendez (Blair); Stang Fan (Verbum Dei)

Rowland vs. Rosemead highlights

CLICK HERE FOR AN AWESOME GALLERY FROM FRIDAY'S ARCADIA-MONROVIA GAME

CLICK HERE FOR OTHER SAN GABRIEL VALLEY SCORES

Friday's Scores

Bishop Amat 34, Muir 14 -- Zach Shay scores three touchdowns and finishes with 107 yards. Jalen Moore rushes for 128 yards and a TD and Rio Ruiz throws for 145 yards and two touchdowns. Nice numbers for sure, but you get the feeling the offense has opened it up and can do so much more. Still, nice to be 3-0.

Monrovia 34, Arcadia 7 -- Nick Bueno put on a show. He completed 11 of 17 passes for 196 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 204 yards on 12 carries with two touchdowns. He scored on runs of 53 and 78 yards and connected twice with Jay Henderson with 20- and 13-yard scores. Monrovia's new stadium looks gorgeous, and the Wildcats made sure the unveiling of their new stadium wasn't spoiled by a determined Arcadia team. Taylor Lagace was nearly shut down offensively. He made only three catches for 9 yards. Derrin Jenkins played flawlessly at corner and pestered Lagace all night. Mason Bryant also assisted late in the game. Ellis McCarthy is better than advertised. The 6-foot-5, 290-pound beast hounded Myles Carr all night, forcing the junior quarterback to alter his throws. Carr completed only 12-of-24 passes for 89 yards. He connected on a 28-yard touchdown pass to David Maldonado. But the Apaches wouldn't be a threat the rest of the game. Lagace made an interception in the end zone, but the Apaches turned it over, giving way for a Christian Blanco score on the ensuing possession. Lagace returned a punt to the Monrovia 42, but the Apaches had to punt on fourth-and-20.

Ahambra 20, Temple City 14 -- Alhambra scored 14 points on its first two drives after scoring just 13 points in its first two games combined. Temple City's power running game appears to be back. Senior Joshua Simangunsong rushed for 135 yards on 20 carries, "a 180 degree difference" from their opening game, Temple City coach Mike McFarland said.

St. Francis 42, Crescenta Valley 14 -- Brett Nelson completed 13 of 22 passes for 187 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for another from 7 yards. Travis Talianko connected, but Ian Hamilton was just as impressive even without a TD. He caught six passes for 110 yards.

Rowland 48, Rosemead 14 -- For the second straight week, the Raiders jump to a 28-0 lead and actually scored the first two times they touched the ball. Rough night for the Panthers.

San Marino 48, La Salle 6 -- The San Marino offense rode with Kwame Do. He rushed for 101 yards in the first quarter alone. It's pretty obvious the La Salle offense continues to struggle. Do finished with 223 yards on 12 carries, but not all ended well. Do suffered what appears to be a season-ending injury when early prognosis indicated an ACL tear. We'll know more Monday.

Burbank 44, San Gabriel 36 -- Burbank opened with a 37-point lead but almost gave it away in the second half. Ulisies Ochoa ran for four TD's and caught another one. San Gabriel's Eric Alvarez was replaced by Andy Guerrero late in the first quarter. Guerrero made the most of his opportunity, passing for 148 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for another.

La Canada 40, Glendale 14 -- Daleep Sandhu had 22 carries for 119 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Spartans. Sandhu said the La Canada offensive line is undersized, but that they played big, resulting in five rushing touchdowns.

Cathedral 36, Pasadena 0 -- Can we fast forward to the Turkey Tussle?

Gabrielino 43, Keppel 0 -- Running back Eddie Moreno ran back two punt returns and had a 62-yard rushing score to lead the Eagles.

Pasadena Poly 51, Marshall 21 -- Way to bounce back after losing a close one to Malibu last week.

Bosco Tech 35, Gladstone 28 -- Nothing like going on the road and coming home with a victory. The Tigers do it for the second straight week.

Maranatha 66, Santa Maria 21 -- Maranatha's defense shut down Santa Maria in the second half, the lone touchdown coming on a 42-yard interception return. Jeremy Majors had 234 all-purpose yards and four touchdowns total. He had two receiving (60- and 12-yards) and returned two punts for 60- and 72-yards. Sophomore quarterback Andrew Elfers completed 17 of 24 for 287 yards and four touchdowns. This kid is going to be good.

Rio Hondo Prep 44, Kilpatrick 12 -- Charles Quintero had 167 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns to lead the Kares.

Grace Brethren 46, Flintridge Prep 20 -- Rebels had a tough one on the road.

CLICK HERE FOR A PHOTO GALLERY FROM FRIDAY'S MUIR-BISHOP AMAT GAME

CLICK HERE FOR QUARTER BY QUARTER UPDATES

Above: The old Monrovia stadium is old no more.

Monrovia High will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday at 5:30 p.m. to unveil its newly-renovated football stadium. Monrovia (0-1) hosts Arcadia (0-1) in Week 2, but regardless of the outcome it's bound to be a special night for Monrovia fans. The state-of-the-art turf field is just one of several new features. There's a new rubber track, grandstands and press box (wireless internet for yours truly?). The new facility will soon be joined by another spectacular venue -- an all-purpose gym that will host countless tournaments in basketball, volleyball and wrestling. Should be a fun night, but there's still a question that needs to be answered: after who will the stadium be named after? Garrison Field has a ring to it, and all you'd need to complement the name would be a brigade of snare drummers.

Alhambra football coach Lou Torres said he will be cleared to return from medical leave just in time to coach the Moors against Temple City on Friday at Moor Field.

Torres was admitted last week to Arcadia Methodist Hospital, the same day the Moors played at La Canada. He underwent surgery the next day for a skin-born staph infection that spread throughout his body, which he said resurfaced in the Moors' season opener against Roosevelt and kept him out of school since Labor Day.

Torres was released from the hospital three days later, but has been under care of a nurse at his home. He said he will coach Friday if he's cleared.

"Absolutely," he said. "I was ready to jump out the window during the weekend."

Torres saw video of Alhambra's 17-0 loss to La Canada, and isn't buying the idea the Moors face a long season.

"We didn't play bad," he said. "Me not being there, when you're the offensive coordinator, was a piece of the puzzle that was missing."

John Zabala, the quarterbacks/wide receivers coach, took charge of the offense.

"It made things difficult asking John to call the offense when he rarely spends time with the run game," Torres said. "But I made sure that no matter what happens I'll meet with my staff and we'll come up with a plan so that everybody has a piece of the puzzle, too. When you're the offensive coordinator and you're gone the day of the game it's difficult for everybody else."

Hook, line and sinker!

St. Francis' Keith Enterante knew he had to stay inbounds in the waning minutes of the Golden Knights' 42-27 win over Arcadia.

"We told our guys, `Let's stay inbounds, move the chains,' " St. Francis coach Jim Bonds said. "They know we're in our four-minute offense. It was a reminder in the huddle not to run out of bounds."

Enterante ran a flat route toward the St. Francis sideline. Quarterback Brett Nelson threw to Enterante, who managed to stay inbounds.

Enterante, a 6-foot-1 senior tight end, then eluded a fast-approaching defensive back and ran the rest of the way for a 47-yard score to all but seal the win. It was Enterante's lone catch of the night.
Bonds and the rest of the team jumped with jubilation, not so much that the Golden Knights scored but how Enterante went about doing so.

"I was surprised at the move he made to make the guy totally miss," Bonds recalled. "I called that play to draw the first down and ice the game, but then you get a score like that and you're excited for the kid, to stop himself from going out of bounds, going forward, put his breaks and have that DB fly past him and score."

I got an e-mail a few days ago from the Wendy's High School Heisman committee reminding eligible seniors that the deadline to apply for the prestigious award is Oct. 3. The last San Gabriel Valley athlete to be honored was Anthony White, who won the award in 1998 while a football star at Rosemead High.

Wendy's® is looking for the next class of remarkable students who excel in academics, athletics and community involvement. Celebrating its 17th year, the 2010 Wendy's High School HeismanTM award application process is underway. Now through Oct. 3, 2010, eligible students (graduating class of 2011) can apply and submit their applications by clicking here.

The Wendy's High School Heisman (WHSH) award is a joint program between Wendy's and the Heisman Memorial Trust, host of the Collegiate Heisman Memorial Trophy. Just as the Heisman is known for being the top award in college football, WHSH is known for being the most prominent award at the high school level. To date, more than 250,000 high school students have represented their schools.

The elite recognition of the WHSH award also gives students the leverage they need to shine on their college applications and stand apart from their peers in the competitive process. "Being recognized as the Wendy's High School Heisman Winner has opened so many doors for me and has reinforced my confidence in taking on whatever challenges and opportunities may arise," said Kyle Pollock, 2009 WHSH winner.

All eligible seniors may submit an application online through Oct. 3, 2010. The first 41,100 applicants will receive a Wendy's gift card randomly valued from $5 to $50. From the completed applications, one male and one female winner will be chosen to receive the Wendy's High School Heisman award. For more information, students can visit www.WendysHeisman.com, call (800) 205-6367 or contact their local high school principal, guidance counselor or athletic director. Students can also visit the WHSH fan page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/wendyshighschoolheisman.

Background: Patrick Martin is a senior running back for the Tigers football team. He recently led South Pasadena to an impressive 22-9 win over San Gabriel in the season opener last week. More impressive was Patrick's performance. The captain who also doubles as a linebacker rushed for 137 yards and one touchdown, but that's not what's garnering Martin headlines. It's the fact Martin went berzerk in the fourh quarter when he rushed for 103 yards. He had only 34 yards rushing heading into the final quarter. Yeah, pretty amazing indeed. Martin took some time out of Monday's practice to let us ask him a few questions about, who else, Patrick Martin.

Born (date and location): 01/25/93, Huntington Memorial, Pasadena

Favorite TV shows: Dexter, Dragon Ball Z, SportsCenter

What's in my iPod: Linkin Park, Eminem, Limp Bizkit

Dream car: 1979 Corvette Sting Ray

Favorite movie(s): Dark Knight, Anchorman

What I'm reading right now: Blind Side

On my bedroom walls you'll find: Football posters

I'd love to trade places for a day with: LaDainian Tomlinson

A talent I'd most like to have: Draw

Favorite meal: Steak

Favorite athlete to watch: LaDainian Tomlinson

Dream vacation: Hawaii

Favorite sports team: San Francisco 49ers

Dream date would be with: Jessica Biel

My hero is: Great grandfather

Goal for the season/year: Teamwise to finish 10-0. Personally, rush for over 1,000 yards.

Biggest rival: San Marino

Best advice I've received from a coach: Keep working hard all the time.

South Pasadena takes on Hoover on Thursday at Glendale High, 7 p.m.

MID-VALLEY DIVISION
1. Arroyo (2-0) def. Temple City, 42-6
2. Whittier Christian (2-0) def. Notre Dame/ Riverside, 49-21
3. San Dimas (1-1) def. El Monte, 55-0
4. Azusa (1-0) def. Bell Gardens, 48-0
5. Monrovia (0-1) lost to Glendora, 7-21 
6. Schurr (0-1) lost to Cantwell Sacred-Heart, 28-49  
7. Rosemead (1-0) def. Montebello, 17-13  
8. San Marino (1-0) def. Gabrielino, 35-0  
9. Covina (2-0) def. Gladstone, 33-0
10. Village Christian (1-1) lost to Fillmore, 7-28
OTHERS: Mountain View (1-0); Ganesha (1-0); La Puente (1-0); Sierra Vista (1-0); Workman (1-0);Blair (2-0); La Canada (1-0); South Pasadena (1-0); Pomona (2-0).

NORTHEAST DIVISION
1. Bishop Union (1-0) def. Linfield Christian, 38-7 
2. Salesian (2-0) def. Bishop Montgomery, 34-24
3. Rio Hondo Prep (1-0) def. Big Bear, 22-12  
4. Chadwick (1-0) def. Riverside Christian, 50-7  
5. Boron (2-0) def. California City, 71-0
6. Mojave (2-0) def. Coast Union (CS), 27-3
7. Vasquez (2-0) def. Kern Valley, 30-7  
8. Mission College Prep (2-0) def. Mammoth, 27-0  
9. Pasadena Poly (1-1) lost to Malibu, 14-21
10. Kern Valley (1-1) lost to Vasquez, 7-30
OTHERS: Viewpoint (1-0); Salesian (2-0).

SOUTHEAST DIVISION
1. Santa Fe (1-0) def. Warren, 20-7
2. Rowland (2-0) def. California, 41-9
3. West Covina (1-1) def. Venice (LAS), 35-21
4. Burbank (1-1) lost to Chaminade, 6-37
5. Muir (1-1) lost to Saugus, 14-28
6. Bonita (2-0) def. Claremont, 42-20
7. La Mirada (0-2) lost to La Habra, 17-23
8. Norwalk (0-2) lost to Cypress, 6-28
9. La Serna (1-1) lost to Downey, 24-35
10. Diamond Ranch (0-2) lost to Damien, 19-26
OTHERS: El Rancho (2-0); Diamond Bar (2-0); Bellflower (2-0); Walnut (1-0); Crescenta Valley (1-0); California (0-1).

WESTERN DIVISION
1. Serra (2-0) def. Redondo Union, 37-13
2. Chaminade (1-0) def. Burbank, 37-6  
3. Dominguez (1-1) lost to Bishop Amat, 15-21
4. St. Francis (1-0) def. Arcadia, 42-27  
5. Culver City (1-0) def. West Torrance, 28-14  
6. Arroyo Grande (2-0) def. Nipomo, 45-6
7. Gahr (1-1) lost to Kennedy/La Palma, 51-69
8. St. Joseph/Santa Maria (1-0) def. Valley Christian/Cerritos, 46-10
9. Santa Monica (1-0) def. Leuzinger, 42-6
10. Warren (0-2) lost to Santa Fe, 7-20
OTHERS: Oxnard (0-1); Ventura (1-1); Adolfo Camarillo (1-0); Cathedral (1-0); Beverly Hills (1-0); Harvard/Westlake (0-1-1) Rio Mesa (1-0); St. Paul (1-0) Atascadero (2-0); Righetti (2-0); Downey (1-0); Paramount (1-0).

The Stang Fan and I will go head-to-head in 2010. We still have not figured out a bet, so your ideas still are welcomed.

Melendez: 11-5 last week; total 19-8
Stang Fan: 8-8 last week; total 16-11

The games I lost were Monrovia, San Gabriel, La Salle, Muir and Pasadena Poly. The games The Stang Fan lost were ... well, we don't have all day to go through his debacle. I wasn't shocked that Monrovia lost, but I was surprised the way they went about losing: turnovers. I pictured a more disciplined Wildcats team, and four fumbles isn't the making of a true champion. I was surprised to find out San Gabriel couldn't stop the run against South Pasadena, and I thought they would have an even harder time stopping Burbank's Adam Coleman. But upon further review I see this as a breakout game for the Matadors, who at some level still are a bit of an enigma. San Gabriel plays tough against Muir and then flops the next week. Still, Burbank isn't as good as people might make them out to see. Burbank's Adam Coleman had a subpar performance against Chaminade last week. Coleman rushed for -2 yards and was average at best completing 8 of 21 passes for 155 yards. Sure, Coleman passed for 204 yards and two touchdowns in the season opener, but the flipside to that is Burbank played Warren. That's not the worst part: Burbank gave up 39 points before pulling away 41-39. Muir won't have it any easier with Bishop Amat. Right now they have to focus on staying healthy. I'll be covering Arcadia at Monrovia. I have the Wildcats winning, but this won't be a blowout. Much like they did against St. Francis, the Apaches will wreak havoc. Keep your eye on Taylor Lagace. This kid is a one-man show. Not to say he's the only weapon, but his presence definitely can't be ignored. The scary part is he's only a junior. Temple City, Alhambra, Arcadia, Monrovia, San Gabriel, La Salle, Pasadena, Keppel, Marshall and Flintridge Prep still are searching for their first win of the season. That's way too many for my liking.

Thursday's games
South Pasadena vs. Hoover at Glendale, 7 p.m. -- MM (South Pas); Stang Fan (South Pas)
Duarte vs. Garey at Ganesha, 7 p.m. -- MM (Garey); Stang Fan (Garey)

Friday's Games
Muir at Bishop Amat, 7:30 p.m. -- MM (Bishop Amat); Stang Fan (Bishop Amat)
Arcadia at Monrovia, 7 p.m. -- MM (Monrovia); Stang Fan (Monrovia)
Temple City vs. Ahambra at Moor Field, 7 p.m. -- MM (Alhambra); Stang Fan (Alhambra)
St. Francis vs. Crescenta Valley at Glendale, 7 p.m. -- MM (St. Francis); (St. Francis)
Rosemead at Rowland, 7 p.m. -- MM (Rowland); Stang Fan (Rowland)
San Marino at La Salle, 7 p.m. -- MM (San Marino); Stang Fan (San Marino)
Burbank at San Gabriel, 7 p.m. -- MM (San Gabriel); Stang Fan (Burbank)
Glendale at La Canada, 7 p.m. -- MM (La Canada); Stang Fan (La Canada)
Cathedral at Pasadena, 7 p.m. -- MM (Cathedral); Stang Fan (Cathedral)
Keppel at Gabrielino, 7 p.m. -- MM (Gabrielino); Stang Fan (Gabrielino)
Marshall at Pasadena Poly, 3:45 p.m. -- MM (Poly); Stang Fan (Poly)
Bosco Tech vs. Gladstone at Citrus College, 7 p.m. -- MM (Bosco Tech); Stang Fan (Bosco Tech)
Santa Maria at Maranatha, 7 p.m. -- MM (Santa Maria); Stang Fan (Maranatha)
Kilpatrick at Rio Hondo Prep, 7:30 p.m. -- MM (RHP); Stang Fan (RHP)
Flintridge Prep vs. Grace Brethren at Moorpark College, 7:30 p.m. -- MM (Flintridge); Stang Fan (Grace Brethren)

Saturday's games
No games scheduled

Discuss anything and everything you want to talk about ... As always, we welcome your nominations for boys and girls athletes of the week.

First San Dimas goes down and now Monrovia. So much for that No. 1 ranking in the CIF-Southern Section Mid-Valley Division. The Wildcats undoubtedly will move down at least one spot after their turnover-marred performance in a 21-7 loss to Glendora in the season opener. I really thought Monrovia would win, and by all accounts the Wildcats were in the thick of it until turnovers stymied Monrovia. As I thought he would, Ellis McCarthy, to put it lightly, made it uneasy for Glendora's Chad Jeffries. McCarthy had four sacks, and it mattered little that he saw double coverage. I wasn't sure losing De'Shawn Ramirez would have made this big an impact, but it did, meaning Derrick Johnson doubled his load offensively as our blogger Observantcat noted in a post Friday.

Monrovia definitely gets a good task Friday night when it hosts Arcadia. The Apaches played tough against a solid St. Francis team. Taylor Lagace will be a tough assignment for the Monrovia secondary. He was a nightmare for St. Francis. Arcadia struggled holding on to the ball and in the red zone. Two of Lagace's touchdowns came on plays longer than 25 yards and he returned another on an interception return. Rodney Arnett looks faster than before. The two-back rotation along with David Maldonado can work for the Apaches, and that's a dangerous weapon Arcadia didn't utilize as much last year, what with injuries and all.

St. Francis recorded a couple sacks and interceptions. The defense looks good, but it was clear they were bothered by the big plays given up to Lagace. "We can't let one guy beat us" was the overall sentiment after a big Lagace play. Lagace is just that good. St. Francis saw it coming, but that mattered little, especially when Arcadia QB Myles Carr connected with Lagace for a 25-yard score. Senior running back Michael Melnick was impressive, but he must start the game with as much intensity as he played with in the second half. Still, Melnick managed to break my new clipboard on a run play that spilled to the St. Francis sidelines. I didn't like that clipboard anyway.

There was a bizzare play in the second half that resulted in a St. Francis 15-yard penalty. After a long play that would have marked the ball deep into Apaches territory, St. Francis was hit with a sidelines warning when a game official apparently ran into a photographer. The photographer didn't appear to be with any news outlet, and you can bet he was scolded for costing the Golden Knights 15 yards. This was bound to happen. There always are way too many people on the sidelines who don't belong, and don't even get me started with no space in the press box. The penalty, however, only delayed a sure touchdown.

Muir's would-be showdown against Bishop Amat may have lost a little bit of its luster after news of Jeffrey Davis going down with an injury in the Mustangs' 28-14 loss to Saugus. We'll bring you the latest on Davis' injury.

Too many teams in search for their first win in Week 2. Monrovia, Arcadia, Temple City, Alhambra, San Gabriel, etc. Not sure how I feel about that, and how that speaks about the state of the West San Gabriel Valley in 2010. I think San Gabriel at 0-2 has got to be the biggest surprise. South Pasadena sent shock waves with its 22-9 win, and it was Patrick Martin who garnered the headlines this time around. Finally the Tigers showed they can produce on the run.

Should be an interesting week as the season shapes out.

Thursday's games
South Pasadena vs. Hoover at Glendale, 7 p.m.
Duarte vs. Garey at Ganesha, 7 p.m.

Friday's Games
Muir at Bishop Amat, 7:30 p.m.
Arcadia at Monrovia, 7 p.m.
Temple City vs. Ahambra at Moor Field, 7 p.m.
St. Francis vs. Crescenta Valley at Glendale, 7 p.m.
Rosemead at Rowland, 7 p.m.
San Marino at La Salle, 7 p.m.
Burbank at San Gabriel, 7 p.m.
Glendale at La Canada, 7 p.m.
Cathedral at Pasadena, 7 p.m.
Keppel at Gabrielino, 7 p.m.
Marshall at Pasadena Poly, 3:45 p.m.
Bosco Tech vs. Gladstone at Citrus College, 7 p.m.
Santa Maria at Maranatha, 7 p.m.
Kilpatrick at Rio Hondo Prep, 7:30 p.m.
Flintridge Prep vs. Grace Brethren at Moorpark College, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday's Games
No games scheduled

CLICK HERE FOR A PHOTO GALLERY FROM FRIDAY'S ARCADIA-ST. FRANCIS GAME

CLICK HERE FOR QUARTER-BY-QUARTER UPDATES

Thursday's Scores
La Canada 17, Alhambra 0
Bosco Tech 28, Contreras 14

Friday's results
St. Francis 42, Arcadia 27 -- Taylor Lagace did his best to keep the Apaches in the game, but to no avail. He caught 13 passes for 156 yards and scored two touchdowns and another on a 32-yard interception. Arcadia quarterback Myles Carr completed 26 of 42 passes for 317 yards and three touchdowns. He was picked off twice.

Glendora 21, Monrovia 7 -- Turnovers cost the Wildcats in this one. Monrovia had four, and that was enough for the Tartans to capitalize and pick up the win. We'll have video of this game Saturday morning.

Arroyo 42, Temple City 6 -- Temple City skill players are underdeveloped and were mistake-prone. There were two fumbles lost in the center-quarterback exchange. The shotgun doesn't look solid, but remember that Mikal Quintanilla is only a sophomore quarterback. Temple City definitely will go through some growing pains.

Maranatha 38, La Salle 7 -- Andrew Elffers threw for 166 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Minutemen.

South Pasadena 22, San Gabriel 9 -- Patrick Martin is the unsung running back nobody knows now, but soon will. He rushed for 137 yards, 103 of which came in the fourth quarter. San Gabriel had trouble stopping the run. Martin wore down the Matadors defense with his punishing runs. The game was close. The Tigers led 13-9 heading into the fourth quarter. Martin at that point had only 34 yards rushing. Wow.

San Marino 35, Gabrielino 0 -- Kawame Do rushed for 185 yards and scored two touchdowns. He had a third score called back. He's proving to be a tough runner and will be a solid replacement for Benny Hung. San Marino started Garrett Glazier at quarterback. Luke Benuska, a 6-foot-6 tight end, had two nice catches in traffic. He scored on an 11-yard reception from Glazier.

Blair 23, Duarte 0 -- Both offenses struggled and the game was marred by a slew of penalties. Brenden Kerr scored two touchdowns on runs of 1- and 37-yards to lead the Vikings.

Rosemead 17, Montebello 13 -- Matt Koffler gets off 2010 start on good note.

Workman 34, Keppel 0 -- It's going to be a long season for the Aztecs. Long.

Saugus 28, Muir 14 -- Jeffrey Davis was taken to the hospital after he collapsed on the sidelines early in the fourth quarter. He suffered what appeared to be an injury to the chest during a 2-point conversion in the third quarter. The game was delayed 30 minutes.

St. Bernard 21, Marshall 7 -- Marshall was driving with the score tied at 7, but the Eagles fumbled and St. Bernard returned it for a score. Marshall was stymied by turnovers.

Rio Hondo Prep 21, Big Bear 12 -- Big Bear's first night game in four years ended with a loss. Rio Hondo Prep led 7-6 at the half.

Saturday's games with predictions
Pasadena Poly at Malibu, 1 p.m. -- MM (Poly); Stang Fan (Poly)
Flintridge Prep vs. St. Genevieve at Sun Valley Poly, 7 p.m. -- MM (St. Gen); Stang Fan (St. Gen)

CLICK HERE FOR A PHOTO GALLERY FROM THURSDAY'S ALHAMBRA-LA CANADA GAME

THURSDAY'S RESULTS WITH PREDICTIONS
La Cañada 17, Alhambra 0 -- MM (La Canada); Stang Fan (Alhambra)
Bosco Tech 20, Contreras 14 -- MM (Bosco Tech); Stang Fan (Contreras)

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The La Salle-Maranatha football rivalry is blossoming into a heated one. It's becoming a rivalry where you can throw records out the window. In the 2010 version, we have two winless teams heading into the Week 1 showdown. If nothing else, the smackdown will be that more intense as La Salle and Maranatha seek their first win of the season. La Salle won in grand fashion last year at home after scoring 21 second-half points to pull away with a 21-14 win. But who can forget La Salle-Maranatha 2008. I was at that game, and that's arguably the best game I've covered as a Star-News sportswriter. What an amazing game. What an amazing drive. What an amazing performance by Maranatha's Matt Schilz. That wasn't the shootout I thought it would be but WHAT A GAME it turned out to be. When Maranatha fans look back on that night, they'll remember Maranatha's final drive simply as "The Comeback". Schilz led an improbable nine-play drive that started on Maranatha High School's 21-yard line with 2:01 left. That was all the time the Minutemen needed to march 81 yards for the winning touchdown -- a 21-yard pass from Schilz to Terell Cornell with 14 seconds remaining that sent Maranatha (2-0) to a 27-26 victory over La Salle on Friday night at Maranatha High.

By Keith Lair
It's the season of change. The high school volleyball season began this week with a slew of new coaches, four area players already signing national letters of intent, and the shuffle of CIF-Southern Section playoff divisions that affects many top teams in the area. Schools with coaching changes include Mayfield, Flintridge Sacred Heart, San Marino, South Pasadena, Alhambra and Rosemead, three of which advanced to the playoffs last season. Mayfield middle blocker Hannah Schraer has signed to play at USC, Monrovia outside hitter Tirah Le'au will play at Georgia, Flintridge Sacred Heart middle blocker Camille Coffey is heading to Fairfield, and FSH outside hitter Alyssa Walton is going to Delaware. The Prep and Rio Hondo leagues jump up a division and the Pacific League drops a division.

THE STAR-NEWS PRESEASON TOP 10

No. 1 Mayfield

Schraer, a 6-foot-3 senior, has no idea what it's like to lose a CIF-SS playoff game - she's helped the Cubs to three consecutive titles.

Mayfield went 24-7 and defeated Cerritos in the 3A finals last year.

They lost four key players, including Star-News player of the year Rachel Aragon, and move to 3AA this season.

"We have a lot of competition at a lot of positions," coach Megan Rush said. "Sometimes we don't know who is where, and we'll have to wait and see."

No. 2 La Canada

Three Spartans landed college scholarships to four-year schools and a fourth has earned a starting spot at an area community college. Four others also graduated.
So La Ca ada, which reached the championship game of the CIF-SS Division 2A tournament, is rebuilding, right?

"We're not rebuilding," coach Brock Turner said. "We're regrouping."

Turner can say that, considering he had eight players who saw extensive playing time last year back on the roster.

"Our goal is to make the finals for a third year in a row," Turner said. "These girls want to make their own goals. We cannot replace the four that we lost, we can only put new people in their positions."

No. 3 Arcadia

The Apaches drop down one division, to CIF-SS 2A, and have almost their entire lineup returning.

"If we can compete, and I think we can, then I think we have a shot to win it," coach Charles Freberg said. "We have the makings to do it if we can get through (the Pacific) League."

The Apaches return T.J. DeGraaf, Ashleigh DeBarge, Joy Kang and Jennifer Estrada, all seniors, up front. DeGraaf will play outside hitter, DeBarge the middle and Estrada the right side. Junior Brittney Lee also will see ample playing time on the front line.

No. 4 Flintridge Sacred Heart

Some of the Tologs' top players graduated. Longtime coach Shelli Orlandini retired and was replaced by assistant Anne Arlie.

The Tologs return only three seniors, including Walton and Coffey. Junior setter Alessandra Orlandini, the niece of the former coach, also returns.

"They're our leaders and the girls need to follow their lead," Arlie said. "They have to lead us by more than their skill."

No. 5 San Gabriel

The Matadors return nearly all of their players, and the teams that dominated the CIF-SS Division 3A last year, in the Miramonte (now the Hacienda) and Desert Valley leagues, are in upper divisions.

"We are a mystery," coach Larry Kanow said. "We did not play in a summer league and we don't know how we're going to play yet."

That mystery will be resolved with some games under their belt.

"By the time we get to playoffs, I think we should be better than last year," Kanow said. "We have to take advantage of our opportunities."

No. 6 Gabrielino

It's possible the two best public schools in San Gabriel could be playing each other for a CIF-SS Division 3A title.

Gabrielino lost to Mayfield in the semifinals, and the Eagles' big loss to graduation was outside hitter Melissa-Rose Villasenor.

"We have size and we have some key players back from last year," Gabrielino coach Cuong Chau said. "We're really ready for a challenge."

Setter and outside hitter Ashley Van Oosten, middle blocker Amanda Watkins and outside junior hitter Joanne Chac are the key players.

No. 7 San Marino

New Titans coach Allan Vince figures the best way to beat Rio Hondo League power La Ca ada is to join them.

"They like to have a quick offense and we'd like to counterattack that with a similar offense," Vince said. "We've been trying to teach them (the Titans) that, and they have been very receptive."

Senior Kelsey Buckner returns at outside hitter, and 6-0 junior Kathleen Sloan gives the Titans a big presence in the middle.

The Titans return senior Victoria Arreola at libero and junior Joie Fan to the back row.

No. 8 Monrovia

Georgia-bound Le'au should have the Wildcats flying high again.

"She's done a lot for our program," coach Wayne Teng said. "She helps every other girl on the team and they help her."

The Wildcats lost six seniors from a team that finished second in the Rio Hondo League for the second consecutive year and went 23-7.

No. 9 Pasadena Poly

Coaches bemoan the loss of 10 seniors from a team that went to the CIF-SS semifinals, but not the Panthers' Steve Beerman.

"We have a young team and we'll be a work in progress," he said, "but I think we have enough good players that I think we can be ready for November. We have a lot of good stuff."

That starts with returning all- CIF junior outside hitter Alexis Genske and CIF-SS basketball player of the year Michelle Miller, the team's setter last year.

No. 10 Maranatha

The Minutemen lost nine seniors from last year's team, which went 20-9 and reached the CIF-SS 3A semifinals.

"We have a lot of sophomores and first-year players, but I still think we're going to be pretty good," Maranatha coach Rebecca Honeycutt said.

Middle blocker Hope McMorrow, a 5-9 senior, will lead the team.

Aram Tolegian, AKA Chemical A.T., and I will discuss the Two-Minute Drills on video this season. Today we bring you Arroyo at Temple City and Arcadia at St. Francis. Tomorrow I'll have Monrovia vs. Glendora at Citrus.

Melendez: 8-3 last week
Stang Fan: 8-3 last week (Anyhow, here are this week's picks. We differ with Alhambra, Contreras, Glendora, Montebello, and Duarte. Which means I'll be in the lead by Friday night...lol.)

Only five games last Friday. It was exciting to watch it unfold under the lights, but the anticipation and excitement will be even bigger this Friday night when Week 1 begins and the rest of the San Gabriel Valley joins the fun. As for last week, I went 8-3, my losses came when I guessed wrong Gabrielino, Pasadena and Bosco Tech. This week will be very interesting. We have some huge games, starting with the local flavor featuring Arcadia at St. Francis. The Apaches are really going to surprise some people. The young group is a year old and wiser after going through some quiet growing pains last season. A former Arcadia star told me over the weekend the Apaches unleashed on Rosemead in a scrimmage. I still think St. Francis gets the better of Arcadia, but expect the Apaches to hang tough. We also have Monrovia vs. Glendora at Citrus College and Arroyo at Temple City as the Mike McFarland era begins. La Salle vs. Maranatha always has been a good intrigue, but with both schools opening with a loss last week, the matchup loses a bit of its luster.

Thursday's Games
Alhambra at La Canada, 7 p.m. -- MM (La Canada); Stang Fan (Alhambra)
Bosco Tech at Contreras, 7 p.m. -- MM (Bosco Tech); Stang Fan (Contreras)

Friday's Games
Arcadia at St. Francis, 7:30 p.m. -- MM (St. Francis); Stang Fan (St. Francis)
Monrovia vs. Glendora at Citrus College, 7 p.m. -- MM (Monrovia); Stang Fan (Glendora)
Arroyo at Temple City, 7 p.m. -- MM (Arroyo); Stang Fan (Arroyo)
La Salle at Maranatha, 7 p.m. -- MM (La Salle); Stang Fan (La Salle)
South Pasadena at San Gabriel, 7 p.m. -- MM (San Gabriel); Stang Fan (San Gabriel)
San Marino at Gabrielino, 7 p.m. -- MM (San Marino); Stang Fan (San Marino)
Montebello at Rosemead, 7 p.m. -- MM (Rosemead); Stang Fan (Montebello)
Duarte vs. Blair at Muir, 7 p.m. -- MM (Blair); Stang Fan (Duarte)
Keppel vs. Workman at La Puente, 7 pm -- MM (Workman); Stang Fan (Workman)
Muir vs. Saugus at College of Canyons, 7:30 p.m. -- MM (Muir); Stang Fan (Muir)
Marshall at St. Bernard, 7 p.m. -- MM (St. Bernard); Stang Fan (St. Bernard)

Saturday's Games
Pasadena Poly at Malibu, 1 p.m. -- MM (Poly); Stang Fan (Poly)
Rio Hondo Prep vs. Big Bear at Big Bear Middle School, 1:30 p.m. -- MM (RHP); Stang Fan (RHP)
Flintridge Prep vs. St. Genevieve at Sun Valley Poly, 7 p.m. -- MM (St. Gen); Stang Fan (St. Gen)

CLICK HERE FOR A PHOTO GALLERY FROM FRIDAY'S SAN GABRIEL-MUIR GAME

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TONIGHT'S RESULTS

Bassett 34, Keppel 0
Roosevelt 16, Alhambra 13
Muir 46, San Gabriel 12
Gabrielino 43, Cerritos 20
Westchester 32, Pasadena 7

SATURDAY'S GAMES

Maranatha vs. Big Bear at Big Bear Middle School, 1:30 p.m. -- MM (BB); SF (BB)
Westview at Bosco Tech, 4 p.m. -- MM (BTech); SF (BTech)
La Salle vs. Village Christian at Glendale, 7 p.m. -- MM (VCh.); SF (VCh.)

MIGUEL MELENDEZ COLUMN

Since a new era is set to begin tonight at Alhambra and San Gabriel high schools, now's as good a time as ever to reflect on the legends who helped put the two football programs on the map.

Gil Ruedaflores was a strong presence at Moor Field for 21 seasons. It was rare, if ever, to find Ruedaflores wearing plain clothes; instead he always donned Alhambra gear. He was one of my teachers when I attended Alhambra, and from the time I started school there in 1997 until my graduation in 2001, I never saw him not wearing Alhambra shorts and T-shirts. He loved the program, and the anticipation of a new season was like Christmas to him.

Lou Torres, who begins his 25th season at Alhambra, is set to take over for Ruedaflores, who was key in turning their relationship into a brotherhood.

Torres played under Ruedaflores at Cathedral Salesian High in Los Angeles, and it was Ruedaflores who gave Torres his first job as an assistant. The two have been nearly inseparable since then.

"What can I say?" Torres said. "He's been my mentor for 36 years."

It wasn't long after the 2009 season when Ruedaflores announced his retirement. Through summer and fall camp, Torres helped provide a seamless transition, but the emotions didn't sink in until last week, after a road scrimmage game.

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CLICK HERE FOT A PHOTO GALLERY FROM THURSDAY'S FULTON-BLAIR GAME

BLAIR 32, FULTON PREP 13: It takes the little things to turn football programs around. It can be the way a team goes down the field on the kickoff, the way it avoids penalties, or how a player gets that extra foot more to make the first down. Blair High School opened the season on Wednesday by doing one little thing very consistently: Recovering loose balls. The Vikings recovered five fumbles and turned four of them into 25 of their points in a 32-13 victory over Fulton Prep of Van Nuys and the CIF-L.A. City Section in a game played at Pasadena High. "They laid the ball on the ground a few times and we definitely took advantage of the turnovers," Blair coach Gary Parks said. "It's key to putting points on the board after turnovers."

PASADENA POLY 50, BRETHREN CHRISTIAN 15: About the only thing going for visiting Brethren Christian was its cool black and white uniforms. As for the football game? Not so much. Chris Levin and Blake Edwards each scored two touchdowns in the first quarter to lead Pasadena Poly to a convincing 50-15 win over Brethren Christian in the season opener for both schools Thursday afternoon at Pasadena Poly. It initially appeared as if it would be a long day - the first quarter lasted 47 minutes - but with the Panthers jumping to a 36-3 lead by the end of the first quarter, both coaches agreed midway through the second quarter to institute a running clock the rest of the game.

Donell Wilson, a 6-foot-4, 280 pound linemen with offers from Kansas and Tennessee under his belt, has transferred to Pasadena High. Wilson had not been seen or heard from since June 28, according to Blair coach Gary Parks.

"We didn't see him anymore," Parks said. "We e-mailed, called his mom and found out he was at PHS. I found out through various phone calls and e-mails and text messages."

Parks said Blair had the same problem with Wilson last year, when he found out Wilson had been seen on Muir's campus during summer time. Parks said that when he was not admitted at Muir, Wilson returned to Blair.

"I think he's getting bad advice," Parks said. "That's just what I think."

In a rare move, Parks said the school has opted not to challenge the transfer with CIF.

"You know what, I'm not going to challenge it with CIF," said Parks when asked if Blair would make that its next move. "We know and the people involved know that God has the ultimate outcome in everything that we do."

Pasadena coach Randy Horton confirmed Wilson's transfer, but added that paperwork is still being sorted out. Horton said Wilson came up to him sometime in August and said he wanted to play for Pasadena.

"His parents moved and he's in PHS district," Horton said. "One day he came up and said he wanted to play. But he's not playing the first game because everything isn't done yet. He has to get all of his paperwork in."

Wilson practiced three days with Pasadena during fall camp, but Horton said that when he found out Wilson "had not un-enrolled from Blair I pulled him off the field."

When asked how Wilson will bolster PHS' line, Horton said he's not quite sure just yet.

"I can't tell you how much he's going to improve our line until he plays," Horton said. "I knew nothing about him, where he's been or what he's done."

When asked if Horton had ever heard of Wilson, Horton responded, "Nope, never have."

CLICK HERE FOR THE CIF-SS PRESEASON TOP 10 POLL

1. MONROVIA
Strengths: Nick Bueno's return would be enough for any team to feel confident about its offense, but what makes the Wildcats dangerous is the depth at running back, starting with senior Derrick Johnson. The offensive line has added size, and a good core on defense also returns. The Wildcats have a chance to prove they're the team to beat with a tough nonleague schedule that includes Mid-Valley Division champion San Dimas.
Obstacles: Experience may be an issue -- the offensive line returns only two starters (Dean Bisterfeldt and Ellis McCarthy).
Outlook: With Bueno virtually directing the offense, don't expect Monrovia to skip a beat offensively. If the newcomers adapt well, the Wildcats could be tougher to beat.

2. ST. FRANCIS
Strengths: A stout offensive line is anchored by Patrick Carroll. The 6-foot-4 lineman had a good summer, getting the attention of colleges and quickly becoming a coveted recruit. The receiving core and secondary return, solidified by Travis Talianko, Ryan Jenkins and Ian Hamilton.
Obstacles: The Golden Knights have a talented but unproven quarterback in Brett Nelson. The 6-foot-3 senior was a transfer from Loyola who didn't play there and was a backup last season. Who replaces Dietrich Riley, now at UCLA, also may be an issue.
Outlook: Nelson has the protection any quarterback would want. If he continues to develop and his talents come to fruition, then St. Francis definitely will surprise teams.

3. MUIR
Strengths: This year's team returns 17 players, 10 of whom started last year. They're a year older after playing valuable minutes last year. Experience on the line, anchored by Danny Huerta and Cameron Palmer, will be key. Running back Kevon Seymour and wide receiver Karl Holmes appear ready to shoulder the responsibility of producing on offense.
Obstacles: Replacing Jarron Williams will be no easy task; Williams played virtually every position and had poise. Jeff Davis, a senior, appears to be the front-runner to take over at quarterback, but lacks valuable minutes.
Outlook: A rebuilding year was expected last year with such a young team. A year older and wiser, Muir expects to improve on a fourth-place finish in the Pacific League and get past the first round of the Southeast Division playoffs.

4. SAN MARINO
Strengths: Mike Mooney makes a grand return to the head coaching ranks. His return alone is a big boost to the Titans. Mooney brings with him a proven staff that includes longtime assistant Tim Loya, who will be offensive coordinator. Kawame Do, a junior, should help provide a seamless transition at running back.
Obstacles: There's a three-player battle at quarterback. Regardless of who wins the spot, they'll still be unproven and will have to adapt to varsity speed.
Outlook: Bet the house anytime Mooney is in the mix.

5. ROSEMEAD
Strengths: Rosemead coach Matt Koffler takes pride in the Panthers' ability to execute the run well. It's a reason why you can expect Rosemead's run production to improve this season, and no one's better at protecting the ball than senior Matt Fregoso, who was a bright spot in the Panthers' 42-20 loss to San Marino in a rare first-round playoff loss. Matt Macias also returns at quarterback, along with seven starters on defense and four of five starters from last year's offensive line.
Obstacles: The Panthers have a tough road for a Mission Valley League crown, competing against the likes of Arroyo, which has bolstered its roster throughout.
Outlook: Rosemead will have an old-school feel with a determined rushing attack. Koffler seems adamant about improving ground production, which may translate to a deeper playoff run this season.

6. ARCADIA
Strengths: Taylor Lagace leads a long list of juniors who are expected to produce after earning starting roles as sophomores. Lagace, a 6-foot-2 wide receiver, caught 74 passes for 895 yards and 12 touchdowns. Rodney Arnett rushed for 670 yards and three touchdowns. Myles Carr was thrust into the starting role at quarterback after Garrett Tuck suffered a shoulder injury halfway through the season. He passed for 859 yards and eight touchdowns.
Obstacles: Tuck was a proven leader on the field. His presence will be missed. The expectations are higher now that the returning group is a year older, but whether they can handle those expectations remains to be seen.
Outlook: St. Francis coach Jim Bonds was impressed with Arcadia during a passing game early this summer. With such a talented group returning, it may not be all that surprising to see the Apaches make a playoff run.

7. SAN GABRIEL
Strengths: Senior wide receiver Mark Covarrubias highlights the Matadors roster this season. As a junior, Covarrubias caught 57 passes for 815 yards and six touchdowns. He'll also solidify the defense after making 124 tackles as a safety. Senior running back Arthur Brown said he's healthy and no longer has lingering affects from an ankle injury that slowed him last year.
Obstacles: Isaac Valdez spoiled the Matadors with three stellar seasons as quarterback. His speed, agility, management and creativity will be sorely missed. There's a three-player race for the starting job, and Eric Alvarez, a sophomore, appears to be the front-runner. Experience will be hard to come by, however. Injuries plagued the Matadors for most of the preseason, and they hope to shake any ill effects.
Outlook: San Gabriel loaded its nonleague schedule with the likes of Muir, Burbank and Rosemead. If it can avoid injuries, keep games close and have another strong Almont League season, the Matadors can put themselves in position for a good playoff run.

8. ALHAMBRA
Strengths: The Moors are running the Wing-T offense, which is suitable for a team with an offensive line anchored by seniors Chris Salgado and Dominic Gonzales. Lou Torres takes over as head coach after spending more than two decades as an assistant under Gil Ruedaflores. Torres knows the Wing-T offense well, and his experience will help things to run smoothly.
Obstacles: The Moors lost a lot of offensive weapons in Mitchell Crockom (Idaho State), Darrian Cazarin (ELAC) and Vailele Peko (transferred to La Habra). Crockom provided size and speed, while Cazarin was a proven quarterback (2,151 yards, 18 touchdowns).
Outlook: Alhambra looks to improve on last season's 6-4 year and third-place finish in the Almont League. It will be tough to produce offensively, but if newcomer Joshua Mendoza (quarterback) can grasp the offense quickly, the Moors may still find themselves contending.

9. LA CAÑADA
Strengths: Seniors Jay Kolina and Daleep Sandhu return and are ready to carry the load offensively. Kolina, a tight end/linebacker, caught 23 passes for 330 yards and five touchdowns. Sandhu is a quick running back who showed glimpses of producing big numbers last year as a junior -- he rushed for 668 yards and scored seven touchdowns. Michael Arkfeld also returns, and his versatility will help a Spartans team in search of depth -- the senior split time last year at wide receiver, running back and defensive back.
Obstacles: La Cañada lost its two biggest offensive threats in quarterback Rocky Moore (2,143 yards passing, 21 touchdowns) and wide receiver Josh Hanson (800 yards receiving, seven touchdowns). Newcomers will try filling the void, but it could take some time before a noticeable impact.
Outlook: The Spartans look to improve from last year's 5-5 overall record and a third-place finish in the Rio Hondo League. Though it earned a playoff berth after an exciting play-in game, La Cañada hopes to contend for a higher placing and give San Marino and Temple City a run for their money.

10. TEMPLE CITY
Strengths: Look for Temple City to pull away from last year's spread offense. First-year coach Mike McFarland will run multiple formations and an offense that will complement the personnel. Tim Sanderson returns at linebacker. He accounted for 112 tackles last year and will be a big, physical target should he end up playing tight end.
Obstacles: There'll be plenty of competition at quarterback and in the backfield, and replacing Justin Smith (1,726 yards passing, 14 touchdowns) and Max Ruckle (1,116 yards rushing, 13 touchdowns) won't come easy. The senior-studded offensive line is also gone, meaning the Rams' depth on the line remains but experience does not.
Outlook: McFarland is rightfully excited about his new gig. He's at a school where football is king, and that enthusiasm might translate on the field too. It's too early to tell, but at the very least McFarland will have this group starting on the right path.

Above: Monrovia's Jay Henderson

2010 STAR-NEWS PRESEASON ALL-AREA TEAM
OFFENSE
QB: Nick Bueno, Monrovia, Sr.
RB: Matt Fregoso, Rosemead, Sr.
WR: Taylor Lagace, Arcadia, Jr.
WR: Jay Kolina, La Cañada, Sr.
WR: Jay Henderson, Monrovia, Sr.
TE: Travis Talianko, St. Francis, Jr.
OL: Patrick Carroll, St. Francis, Sr.
OL: Chris Salgado, Alhambra, Sr.
OL: Danny Huerta, Muir, Sr.
OL: Alan Felix, San Marino, Sr.
OL: Dean Bisterfeldt, Monrovia, Sr.
PK: Ian Sternau, St. Francis, Sr.

Above: Muir's Kevon Seymour

DEFENSE
DL: Ellis McCarthy, Monrovia, Jr.
DL: Nick Preciado, Rio Hondo Prep, Sr.
DL: Donell Wilson, Blair, Sr.
LB: Tim Sanderson, Temple City, Sr.
LB: Mark Covarrubias, San Gabriel, Sr.
LB: Derrick Johnson, Monrovia, Sr.
LB: Oliver Campbell, San Marino, Sr.
DB: Kevon Seymour, Muir, Sr.
DB: Ryan Jenkins, St. Francis, Sr.
DB: Charles Quintero, Rio Hondo Prep, Sr.
SS: Charlie Cimmarusti, Monrovia, Sr.
P: Matt Faber, La Cañada, Sr.

CLICK THREAD FOR POSITION RANKINGS

Above: Arcadia and Monrovia open the season at Fullerton High last year. The site was changed because of poor air conditions stemming from the Station Fire.

MIGUEL MELENDEZ COLUMN

Try and keep up.

Randy Horton, who served as an assistant football coach at Temple City High School last year, is the new head coach at Pasadena.

Mike McFarland, who was pink-slipped before school year's end and after one season as coach at Pasadena, is head coach at Temple City. He takes over for Anthony White, who left after one season to pursue the same position at Buena Park High.

Mike Mooney, whom many moons ago was the longtime head coach at Temple City before leaving to pursue an administrative position at San Marino High, goes from assistant to head coach at San Marino after D.R. Moreland resigned early this year to further his education.

Still with me?

Lou Torres, who begins his 25th year as a teacher and assistant football coach at Alhambra High, was promoted to head football coach at Alhambra after Gil Ruedaflores called it a career after 21 seasons.

Jude Oliva, who was a finalist for the head coaching position at Alhambra, was promoted from offensive coordinator to head coach at San Gabriel in place of Keith Jones, who retired early this year.

Phew.

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By Miguel A. Melendez, Staff Writer

MONROVIA -- There were no blaring headlines or expectations.

Nick Bueno's arrival three years ago was subtle, if not silent.

The sophomore-to-be merely was one of a short list of players competing for the starting job at quarterback at Monrovia High School three years ago.

By fall camp, Bueno was one of two finalists for the job, and three paragraphs was all that was needed to describe his role in the 2008 football preview where there was no mention of his vision or speed.

That offseason was highlighted by a visit to the Peyton Manning Camp in New Orleans, where he received one-on-one tutoring from the Super Bowl champ.

Bueno still was a second option at best in the newly installed Wing-T offense. Monrovia coach Ryan Maddox had a talented running back in Marquise Williams to carry the offensive load, and he did.

There were flashes of brilliance to Bueno's game. He quietly posted career-like numbers early in the season, but it mattered little, if at all, so long as they also were accompanied by an "L" next to them.

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