HS FOOT: Choto on comeback trail for Arleta

Arleta's Bryan Choto, one of the San Fernando Valley's top City Section quarterbacks, has recovered more quickly than expected from an ankle injury. After missing one game, he has been practicing this week and is probable for an East Valley League game on Friday against Grant of Van Nuys.

Choto directs an offense that is averaging 50.2 points per game and a remarkably efficient 12.4 yards per play.

Arleta's Antonio Bray has yet to carry more than nine times in a game, but he has totaled 668 yards on 39 carries -- an average of 17.1 yards -- and he has scored 16 touchdowns, including two on kick returns.

"Antonio is very dangerous. Our problem is we've had so few snaps because we've been going to a running clock," coach Jeff Engilman said. "Last game (a 42-0 victory over Van Nuys), we only had 15 snaps all game. They went to a running clock with four minutes left in the first quarter after we went up 21-0."

Like his teammates, Bray has no choice but to make the most of his opportunities, as Arleta (6-1) remains a strong favorite to repeat as City Div. II champions.

"I do whatever I can when I get the football because I never know when I'm going to get it again," Bray said.

-- Gerry Gittelson