When you lose three players to Division I schools (Tyler Shreve, Andrew Hudson and David Peterson) like Redlands East Valley did, a dropoff is expected. Add first-team all-Sun running back A.J. Fernandez to the list of departures and one would think that Wildcat coach Kurt Bruich would be a little measured about his expectations for the coming season. But that’s not how the ninth-year coach feels at all.
“I really like this group of kids through all three classes,” Bruich said. “From seniors to sophomores, I think we have an extremely talented group and I think we can do some big things. This program is all about stepping in and keeping the success going and I think this group will do that.”
Leading the way for the Wildcats will be a defense that returns five starters. While REV has had its share of glamorous offensive stars in recent years such as Ronnie Fouch, Chris Polk, Shreve and Fernandez, its the defense which has allowed REV to win three CBL titles since 2005 and has it in position for a fourth this year.
“We are going to play good, physical, hard-nosed Redlands East Valley defense,” Bruich said. “That’s what makes us go. We feel really good about our guys up front, we have some good linebackers and I think we are looking pretty good in the secondary too.”
Two players the Wildcats are raving about are cornerback Josh Armstrong and defensive tackle Devon Lewis. Armstrong (6-0, 180) was an all-CIF player as a junior while Lewis (6-1, 285) is the most talented defensive lineman in the CBL in Bruich’s opinion. Both are receiving interest from Division I schools. Joining Armstrong in the secondary are seniors Taylor Fernandez (5-10, 185) and Kristian King (6-0, 190) while Josh Peterson (5-11, 210) will lead the linebacking corps. Peterson is a third-year starter while Fernandez, the younger brother of A.J., will also see time at running back.
Taking the reins of the offense at quarterback will be junior Austin DeCoud (6-3, 218) or senior Cory Perez. DeCoud gives REV the dropback passer with the big arm in the mold of Shreve while Perez is more of a scrambler. Fernandez and junior Stefen Kirkland (5-11, 190) will be the primary ballcarriers while seniors Kevai Ellis (6-1, 225) and Auston Forsythe (5-10, 197) will be the main pass catchers.
Zach Martinez (6-5, 250) anchors the offensive line and will be joined by Jacob Roddy (6-3, 261), Brandon Greene (6-2, 235) and Edward Faimalo (6-3, 265). Cody Madsen (6-1, 170) is one of the best kickers in the county.
REV’s 2010 schedule (Home games in CAPS, * indicates league game)
Sept. 10 – at Clovis East
Sept. 16 – SAN GORGONIO (Citrus Valley HS)
Sept. 24 – at Orange Lutheran (Orange Coast College)
Oct. 1 – CHINO HILLS
Oct. 8 – at Mission Viejo
Oct. 15 – REDLANDS*
Oct. 22 – EISENHOWER*
Oct. 29 – at Fontana*
Nov. 5 – YUCAIPA* (Citrus Valley HS)
Nov. 12 – at Miller*
Home games are at the University of Redlands unless otherwise indicated.
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