HS FOOT: Things looking up at Antelope Valley

Antelope Valley made slow but steady improvement last season under first-year coach Brett Pape -- the Antelopes finished 4-6 but for the second consecutive year failed to qualify for the playoffs -- but things are looking up for a program that once was among California's most feared.

Returning quarterback Michael Davis has received a DI offer from Army, and talented junior running back Joey Vercher has transferred in from West Adams Prep in L.A.

"It's Davis' first offer, and Army runs the same option offense we do," said Pape, a former sports reporter at the AV Press of all things. "He just works his butt off, and the fact Army wants him is an indication of the kind of kid he is, a top student. I'm pretty proud of him."

Vercher is a 5-7, 170-pounder with breakaway speed who figures to get a long look.

"I don't know that much about Vercher, but he's real stocky and real shifty. We're excited to have him," Pape said.

gerry.gittelson@dailynews.com