Tonight's game and prediction
Los Altos vs. Diamond Ranch at Ganesha, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (DRanch); Ramirez (DRanch)

For quarter-by-quarter updates of tonight's games, click thread.

Tonight's results
South Hills 48, Walnut 27 -- The Huskies jump out to a 41-0 lead keyed by Geoffrey Vaughns' two interceptions. The Mustangs scored 27 unanswered late.
Crespi 38, Bishop Amat 25 -- The Lancers trailed 21-3 and fought to get back in it, but they gave up too many points to claw all the way back. It's not the end of the world, they can still clinch a share of the Serra title next week with a win at home against Notre Dame, who beat Loyola 45-14.
Damien 52, Diamond Bar 3 -- The Spartans are not just winning, they're flexing their muscles and getting ready to clinch at least a share of the Sierra title.
Arroyo 57, Mountain View 7 -- The Knights actually trailed 7-0 before going on a 57-point run.
Rosemead 52, El Monte 20 -- Matt Fregoso had 370 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns. Can you say player of the week?
Rowland 42, Nogales 20 -- The Raiders only led 14-13 at half, then pulled away and clinched a playoff spot.
Gladstone 42, Bassett 6 -- The Gladiators needed this to stay in playoff contention while eliminating the Olympians at the same time.
La Puente 41, Sierra Vista 7 -- If not for their lone loss to Azusa, what would you be saying about the way the Warriors handled everyone else?
Workman 23, Duarte 0 -- The only surprise was how close the score was.
Chino Hills 14, Ayala 7 -- Just thought I would share it with you.
Glendora 28, Chino 10 -- The Tartans take care of business, can clinch a share of the Sierra and a playoff spot with a win at home against Ayala.
San Dimas 49, Northview 24 -- It's official, we can start getting ready for next week's showdown at Baldwin Park for the VVL title.
Covina 7, Pomona 2 -- Sounds like a Colts baseball score, but anyways, this probably does clinch a playoff spot.
Bonita 47, Wilson 3 -- The Bearcats take care of business to keep their playoff hopes alive.
South El Monte 28, Gabrielino 3 -- The Eagles not only clinched a playoff spot, but will play for a piece of the MVL against Arroyo next week.

By Steve Ramirez, Staff Writer
HUNTINGTON BEACH - Glendora High School didn't win a pseudo CIF-Southern Section field hockey title. But the Tartans earned a pretty good consolation prize Thursday. Amy Sefton scored a goal and had three assists and Glendora scored a 4-1 victory over Fountain Valley in the third-place game of the Los Angeles Field Hockey Association Tournament of Champions at Edison High School. To continue, click thread

Game Story: Baldwin Park's 49-14 victory over Ganesha on Thursday night was another step for the Braves toward a Valle Vista League title. Ganesha, meanwhile, took one more step toward a new league it will form next year with opposition that will provide more evenly matched games, according to Giants coach Dave Fleming. Baldwin Park (8-1, 4-0) has one more matchup this season it's looking forward to. If San Dimas can beat Covina Northview today, the lone team Ganesha (1-8, 1-3) has defeated this season, Baldwin Park and San Dimas will play for an outright Valle Vista League championship on Nov. 13.

Thursday countdown question:I don't like to use the term sleepers with teams having great years, but wouldn't it be a total surprise if one of these four won a CIF championship? Which of them has the best chance of winning their division and shocking us all?

South Hills and Bishop Amat, arguably the best two baseball teams in the Valley this spring, will both participate in the prestigious National Classic.

The Scouting Guru has been all over the San Gabriel Valley and beyond, and like always, he's offered to share his thoughts, free of charge. Don't hate, enjoy it for what it's worth, which is one man's opinion on the talent and teams in the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding areas.

Guru Says: Well, this is my favorite time of year. We are watching tons of film for 2010 prospects. But more than that, it's close to playoff time - which means it's time for a little bracketology for the playoffs. Let's dive into it.
First, what needs to be understood is the protocol directly from the CIF-SS Handbook that is online at cifss.org. "The initial step is to designate four teams (maximum) as seeds, with No. 1 and No. 4 placed in the top bracket, and No. 2 and 3 in the bottom bracket (see Diagram 1). An exception to this procedure would be if seeds in the same half of the bracket are from the same league......Is it possible to designate more than four seeds? The task would be virtually impossible on two counts. Attempting to delineate which team is the No. 7 seed, as opposed to No. 8, or No. 12 rather than No. 13, would result in 25 different answers by 25 different people. Additionally, an attempt at a "true seed" would be in opposition to the CIF-SS Constitution and By-laws, which specify a league's designated No. 1 entry shall meet a No. 3 entry, and a No. 2 shall meet another No. 2, where the draw provides for same in the opening round."

If the area's perennial powerhouse's met in the Southeast Division championship in December, who would you take? Have the Huskies improved enough to challenge the Chargers? Because of the new leagues, you might not see this dream final again. You will see them battle for playoff spots along with Damien in the Sierra League, but as far as title games, the best chance is now, and those chances are growing by the week. Who is going to stop them, West Covina, Diamond Ranch, Rowland, one of those Burbank schools? Not this year. When you look at the three losses between them, Rancho Cucamonga, La Habra and Tesoro, there is nobody like that they will face again until they meet each other.

There are only a handful of teams with a chance to win the Mid-Valley Division, Paraclete, Monrovia, San Dimas are the top tier, Baldwin Park, Arroyo, Azusa are a not-too-close second. Where does Rosemead fit in the mix?


By Fred J. Robledo, Staff Writer
After winning the Mission Valley League title and advancing to the CIF-Southern Section Mid-Valley Division title game last season, Rosemead High School football coach Matt Koffler is feeling good about his playoff possibilities, even though the Panthers are a mere 3-5 overall and 2-1 in league. With Arroyo (6-2, 3-0) well on its way to a Mission Valley League title after sneaking past the Panthers 14-12 in the league opener, Koffler is confident that once sturdy running back Joey Diaz returns, they will be an entirely different team.

Who are the winners and losers in the new boys basketball playoff divisions? My first thoughts were that Bishop Amat is in good place. If they can't compete for a 4AA title with the beautiful building and all the other resources at their disposal, that's not going to go over well, not with baseball and football looking so good.

Boys Basketball
1AA: Diamond Bar
1A: Walnut, West Covina
2AA: Glendora
2A: Damien, Nogales, Rowland
3AA: Arroyo, Los Altos
3A: Bonita, Charter Oak, Diamond Ranch, Mountain View, Rosemead, Sierra Vista, South Hills
4AA: Azusa, Bishop Amat, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, Gladstone, La Puente, San Dimas, South El Monte, Wilson,
4A: Bassett, Blair, Workman
5AA: La Verne Lutheran

We should have quite a list of baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, and other non-football players signing letters of intent next week for the early signing period. If you know of anyone signing, let us know or email me at fred.robledo@sgvn.com. We're getting a list together for a group picture...

How far can Arroyo go in the Mid-Valley Division?

Tribune Top Ten
1. Bishop Amat (8-0) - Wouldn't it be great if they defeated Crespi on the road. Think about the atmosphere next week when they would be going for 10-0 at home for first place in the Serra against reigning champion Notre Dame. It doesn't get much better than that. But first things, first.
2. Charter Oak (8-1) - People keep asking, do you still think Charter Oak would beat Bishop Amat on a neutral field? I'm stubborn enough to say yes, but also realize how foolish that sounds. I don't know why people still keep knocking the Chargers, they're only 22-1-1 since last year.
3. South Hills (6-2) - The Huskies are the sleeper nobody is talking about. We will find out just how polished they're with Walnut and Rowland next, but my guess is they will blow out both and go into the playoffs with a head of steam.
4. San Dimas (7-1) - If not for the loss against the Mid-Valley's No. 1 Monrovia, they would look so unstoppable on paper. Seriously, they're winning by a 28-point margin with three straight shutouts. That's just sick.
5. Baldwin Park (7-1) -- You gotta love that everytime San Dimas comes up with a statement victory, the Braves answer. I can't wait for the Valle Vista league finale.
6. West Covina (5-4) - I guarantee the Bulldogs will be the team nobody wants to face in the first round of the Southeast playoffs. I know they have four losses, but that was a lot of injuries ago.
7. Rowland (7-1) - The Raiders got handled by West Covina, but they still have a shot at the San Antonio league title in the finale against South Hills. A loss, which is more likely, drops them to third.
8. Damien (3-5) -- The Spartans are nowhere to be found in the Central Rankings, and for a very good five-loss reason. But they're in the best position to finish strong, and regardless of the rankings, they have a chance to grab the league's top seed with victories over Diamond Bar and Chino.
9. Glendora (5-3) -- Quarterback Chad Jeffries stepped up and had a monster game in their upset over Chino Hills. The Tartans should beat Chino this week, then can play for a tie of the Sierra League title against Ayala in the finale.
10. Azusa (8-1) -- The back-to-back Montview League champions are sitting pretty as the No. 3 seed in the Mid-Valley Division. We all talk about the great job Bishop Amat coach Steve Hagerty is doing, but Aztecs coach Joe Scherf deserves coach of the year consideration too.

The Middle 10
11. Walnut (6-2), 12. Arroyo (6-2), 13. La Puente (6-2), 14. Gladstone (6-2), 15. Diamond Ranch (2-6), 16. Bonita (2-5), 17. Workman (5-3), 18. Los Altos (3-5), 19. Pomona (5-3), 20. Rosemead (3-5).

On the bottom looking up
21. Covina (3-5), 22. Sierra Vista (4-4), 23. Wilson (2-6), 24. Nogales (2-6), 25. Bassett (3-5), 26. South El Monte (2-6), 27. Diamond Bar (1-7), 28. Ganesha (1-7), 29. Northview (1-7), 30. El Monte (0-8), 31. Mountain View (0-8), 32. Duarte (0-8)

The view from Diamond Ranch High School after a brush fire broke out on Tuesday....

Girls Volleyball Top 10
1. South Hills (15-5)
2. St. Lucy's (22-4)
3. Walnut (16-4)
4. Bonita (13-6)
5. San Dimas (18-4)
6. Glendora (8-4)
7. Los Altos 13-6
8. Ganesha (19-4)
9. La Puente (14-10)
10. Diamond Bar (16-10)

Comments: For the first time in a few weeks, we have a new No. 1 as South Hills subplants St. Lucy's after the Regents lost in five to Ayala last week. Will will see what the Huskies do with their new status when they travel to No. 3 Walnut tonight for a San Antonio League showdown. it's one of three battles for first place today. No. 9 La Puente hosts Gladstone and No. 5 San Dimas travels to No. 8 Ganesha. Speaking of the Saints, they move up to No. 5. after getting two more sweeps in the Valle Vista, and taking advantage of Glendora and Los Altos losing, albeit to ranked teams. Diamond Bar makes a return to the top 10 after putting together a late surge in recent weeks.

Above: South Hills' Jackie Valle-Acosta spikes Walnut

Update:
South Hills def. Walnut, 20-25, 25-20, 25-20, 21-25, 15-9 - The Huskies clinched their second outright title in three years with the victory. Melinda Gomez had 15 kills, with Marisa Gomez and Jackie Valle-Acosta 14 each to lead South Hills. The Huskies also got 13 kills from Karina Jones and 62 assists from Bre Hunter.

Other Scores
Miramonte League
Bonita def. Wilson 25-10, 25-16, 25-18.
Montview League
Gladstone def. La Puente 14-25, 25-13, 25-18, 25-20.
Sierra League
Glendora def. Chino 25-10, 25-7, 25-17.
Valle Vista League
San Dimas def. Ganesha 25-19, 25-19, 25-14.

Charter Oak High School football coach Lou Farrar started third-string quarterback Kyle Brown in Friday's 42-0 win over Wilson, and Brown did well in completing 6 of 10 attempts for 119 yards and two touchdowns. According to Farrar, sophomore starting quarterback Travis Santiago "got his bell rung" a week earlier in a 12-0 win over Diamond Ranch, the same game in which backup quarterback Josiah Thropay was lost for the season with a broken collarbone while playing receiver.

Damien coach Greg Gano and Diamond Ranch coach Roddy Layton each have faced Bishop Amat and are not surprised by the Lancers' 8-0 start, their best since going 9-0 in 1998. "They're coached-up as well as anyone," Layton said. "When you think of having Daylon McCutcheon and Rodney Sermons on your coaching staff, those are San Gabriel Valley legends. What impresses me the most is that they're not doing it with a bunch of superstars, they're doing it with discipline. I always have said when Bishop Amat is winning, it's great for football in the Valley. When they win it makes us all look good." To continue reading, click thread

Below: Relive Bishop Amat's 27-24 overtime victory over Loyola on Friday. Hagerty speaks at the end.

Once again, a local coach has stepped up and offered to help give insight to what's going on in cross country. This comes from Glendora assistant coach Bob Ramsey

Ramsey said: Local cross county teams move into the final phase of the season this week, with each of the local leagues holding their Championship Finals meets. These meets will determine league championships along with CIF qualifying spots - with the top three teams in most leagues and top four in 7-8 team leagues advancing to CIF prelims. Individuals on non-advancing teams who finish in the top six in their leagues will also qualify for CIF. To continue, click thread

As we inch closer to the Nov. 25 season openers, tell us who the top teams and players are for the 2009-10 season. Diamond Ranch and Bishop Amat should dominate the girls, but the boys is a tough one. Diamond Ranch, Nogales, Northview, Bonita and Glendora all lost a strong group of players. Even Workman takes a step back with CJ Guerrero going back to St. John Bosco, making you wonder, is he even eligible? La Verne Lutheran? I'm wondering if I should include them in our rankings, because if I'm being honest, they're No. 1 by a longshot.

Will the good times continue at Nogales?

Below: These are how the rankings ended in March, how will they look when the season begins?
BOYS BASKETBALL
1. Diamond Ranch (22-4)
2. Nogales (21-7)
3. Northview (21-6)
4. Bonita (22-5)
5. Glendora (21-7)
6. Workman (19-5)
7. Bishop Amat (17-9)
8. Charter Oak (18-9)
9. Diamond Bar (16-12)
10. Damien (16-11)

GIRLS BASKETBALL
1. Diamond Ranch (21-4)
2. Bishop Amat (20-5)
3. Sierra Vista (21-3)
4. Bonita (17-9)
5. South Hills (17-7)
6. Walnut (16-8)
7. West Covina (15-9)
8. Northview (17-9)
9. San Dimas (14-11)
10. Covina (16-9)

After a year off, Lancers coach Richard Wiard is back. But when will the Lancers join the top teams in the Southland again?

Below are the final rankings in February, go ahead and tell us who the top teams, top players are as we get ready for the 2009-10 season previews. The first games are on Nov. 25

Purple Pride: Mountain View celebrating a CIF-SS Divisional title and has almost everyone back. Can you say repeat.

BOYS SOCCER
1. Baldwin Park (21-1)
2. Sierra Vista (18-2-2)
3. Mountain View (16-4-4)
4. Los Altos (11-4-3)
5. Wilson (17-4-2)
6. Bishop Amat (14-5-4)
7. Rosemead
8. West Covina (14-4-3)
9. South Hills (12-4-3)
10. Diamond Ranch (13-5-3)

GIRLS SOCCER
1. St. Lucy's (15-3-4)
2. Walnut (14-5-2)
3. Bishop Amat (17-2-4)
4. Glendora (15-9-3)
5. South Hills (14-8-1)
6. Los Altos (15-7-3)
7. Diamond Ranch (11-7-4)
8. San Dimas (17-4-4)
9. South El Monte (12-4-1)
10. Charter Oak (15-7-3)

Is this the year South Hills finally dethrones Walnut?

Above: Photo courtesy of Glendora athletics

By Fred J. Robledo, Staff Writer
When you think of how many close games the Glendora High School football team has been in this season, it sure helps to have a cool kicker to count on in the clutch.
Matt Kerman has been just that for the Tartans. It was his extra point that finished off a stunning, 91-yard scoring drive in the final minute and a half that gave the Tartans a 21-20 victory over Anaheim Canyon back in September. It was Kerman's 22-yard field goal as time expired that gave the Tartans a 16-14 victory over Diamond Ranch on Oct. 2. "When you get in that situation, you realize how hard your team has worked to set you up," Kerman said. "You don't want to let them down. Besides, I couldn't go to school the next day if I missed."

Southeast Division
1. Charter Oak (8-1), 2. South Hills (6-2), 3. Burbank (7-1), 4. Crescenta Valley (6-2), 5. Walnut (6-2), 6. Rowland (7-1), 7. Bell Gardens (6-2), 8. Schurr (6-1-1), 9. Santa Fe (6-2), 10. Burroughs (6-2).
Mid-Valley Division
1. Monrovia (8-0), 2. San Dimas (7-1), 3. Azusa (8-1), 4. Baldwin Park (7-1), 5. Paraclete (6-3), 6. Arroyo (6-2), 7. Gladstone (6-2), 8, La Puente (6-2), 9. Village Christian (6-2), 10. San Marino (6-2).
Central Division
1. Colton (7-1), 2. Rancho Cucamonga (7-1), 3. Colony (7-1), 4. Etiwanda (6-2), 5. Upland (7-1), 6. Elsinore (6-2), 7. Chino Hills (6-2), 8. Arroyo Valley (6-2), 9. Glendora (5-3), 10. Ayala (6-2).
Pac-5 Division
1. Edison (8-0), 2. Mission Viejo (8-0), 3. Servite (7-1), 4. Notre Dame (7-1), 5. Lakewood (8-1), 6. Fountain Valley (8-0), 7. Bishop Amat (8-0), 8. Dana Hills (7-1), 9. Los Alamitos (6-2), 10. Orange Lutheran (5-3).

Bishop Amat coach Steve Hagerty has his sights set on Crespi next. Once again, the Lancers will be on the front page Friday night, and we will have scoring updates for those who can't make the trip.

Steve and I will go head-to-head throughout the season. Here is our updated records on the Tribskin Pick'em thread.

Robledo: Last week/Total: 17-1/129-36
Ramirez: Last week/Total: 15-3/118-47

Last Week: For those who say I can't pick games, look at the overall record, that's almost an 80 percent winning percentage. I would have gone 18-0 if not for Glendora upsetting Chino Hills on Matthew Kerman's game-winning field goal. Steve lost two more by taking Rowland over West Covina and Bassett over Sierra Vista. There is no way he can catch me, an 11-game lead with two weeks before the playoffs. I can start making my dinner plans, which of course is on Stevie.
This week: With 16 games, I'm singling out four, which means the other twelve are locks. Let's start with Bishop Amat. Eight is enough. They will lose at Crespi this week. The Lancers haven't had to play anyone this talented on the road, having played close to home in other road wins against Diamond Ranch, Damien, West Covina and St. Paul. Calpreps lists the Lancers as a 30-28 winner, but don't count on it, the Lancers' best bet is returning home and knocking off Notre Dame in the finale. I like Covina to knock off Pomona for that third playoff spot. The Colts have played tougher opponents, and have the offense to get it done. Take South Hills over Walnut. The Mustangs will go 7-3 and miss the playoffs, unfortunate but a reality of having four strong teams and only three playoff spots. Finally, take Diamond Ranch to clinch a playoff spot in the Miramonte with a win over Los Altos. The Conqs just can't seem to win the big one.

This week's games and predictions
Thursday's games
Baldwin Park at Ganesha, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (BPark); Ramirez (Baldwin Park)
Friday's games
Arroyo at Mountain View, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Arroyo); Ramirez (Arroyo)
Rosemead at El Monte, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Rosemead); Ramirez (Rosemead)
South El Monte at Gabrielino, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (SElMonte); Ramirez (South El Monte)
Bassett vs. Gladstone at Citrus College, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Gladstone); Ramirez (Gladstone)
La Puente at Sierra Vista, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (La Puente); Ramirez (La Puente)
Workman vs. Duarte at La Puente, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Workman); Ramirez (Workman)
Rowland at Nogales, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Rowland); Ramirez (Rowland)
South Hills vs. Walnut at CDF, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (South Hills); Ramirez (South Hills)
Bishop Amat at Crespi, 7:30 p.m. -- Robledo (Crespi); Ramirez (Bishop Amat)
Damien at Diamond Bar, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Damien); Ramirez (Damien)
Glendora at Chino, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Glendora); Ramirez (Glendora)
Northview at San Dimas, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (San Dimas); Ramirez (San Dimas)
Pomona vs. Covina at Ganesha, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Covina); Ramirez (Pomona)
Wilson at Bonita, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Bonita); Ramirez (Bonita)
Saturday's games
Los Altos vs. Diamond Ranch at Ganesha, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (DRanch); Ramirez (DRanch)

Glendora quarterback Chad Jeffries' spectacular two-point conversion against Chino Hills on Friday night that cut the Huskies' lead t o 14-8 in the third quarter. That play made the difference in their 24-23 victory.

Relive Bishop Amat's thrilling last second-victory over Crespi last season. The Lancers face Crespi again on Friday. BTW, The Times' Eric Sondheimer says to watch out for Celts quarterback Bryan Bennett, who is on his way to Oregon. He threw for 302 yards and two TDs in their loss to Notre Dame.

New York said: This story is in the paper today. Various school districts feel that "good students" are getting poached. I wonder if they can stop the transfers by lobbing darts such as the "athletically motivated" accusation. I wonder if non-athletes will be vulnerable to the same type of harassment. For instance, what if a losing school made claims that transfers were "socially motivated" rather than academically motivated.

Here's the story
By Tania Chatila, Staff Writer
When it comes to the estimated losses Rowland Unified School District has faced because of a state program allowing parents to send their children to any district, it really comes down to two figures: 2,000 students and nearly $28 million. And now that the life of this program has been extended through 2016, some local educators fear it will just do more damage to already decreasing enrollment in the region. To continue, click thread

Anything and anyone you want to talk about

The Drive for Five: We started the year with a question, which of these four-time championship coaches will get No. 5 first? With two weeks to go, all three have their teams playing their best football of the season. Farrar is still the best bet, though I'm sensing a meeting with Bogan in the final. Gano? You never know. Unless they stumble, they will enter the playoffs with the momentum of a four-game winning streak, at least a share of the Sierra, and the confidence of having a coach that's been there, and a schedule that has prepared them for anything.

Game of the week? Look at the list, nothing jumps out at you, except for Walnut and South Hills. If the Mustangs lose, their playoff hopes are over. If you think a different one should be game of the week, then speak!!!

Bishop Amat: Was Friday's 27-24 victory over Loyola good enough to get the Lancers a Pac-5 playoff berth? Last year they finished 7-3 and got in, the worst they finish now is 8-2.

Athletes of the week: Looking for nominations for boys and girls athletes of the week.

This week's schedule
Thursday's games
Baldwin Park at Ganesha, 7 p.m.
Friday's games
Arroyo at Mountain View, 7 p.m.
Rosemead at El Monte, 7 p.m.
South El Monte at Gabrielino, 7 p.m.
Bassett vs. Gladstone at Citrus College, 7 p.m.
La Puente at Sierra Vista, 7 p.m.
Workman vs. Duarte at La Puente, 7 p.m.
Rowland at Nogales, 7 p.m.
South Hills vs. Walnut at CDF, 7 p.m.
Bishop Amat at Crespi, 7:30 p.m.
Damien at Diamond Bar, 7 p.m.
Glendora at Chino, 7 p.m.
Northview at San Dimas, 7 p.m.
Pomona vs. Covina at Ganesha, 7 p.m.

Saturday's games
Los Altos vs. Diamond Ranch at Ganesha, 7 p.m.

Friday's results
Bishop Amat 27, Loyola 24 -- Cubs QB Jerry Neuheisel completed 20-of-24 for 256 yards and RB Jared Baker rushed for 109 yards, but the Lancers scored on two trick plays in the first half to make it 14-14, then won it in overtime when Jerry McClanahan floated a 14-yard TD pass sophomore to Rio Ruiz to win it. Another amazing win as they rallied in the final four minutes to tie it in regulation on Jay Anderson's one-yard touchdown with 56 seconds left. Ruiz also threw a touchdown pass to McClanhan with seconds left in the half. The Lancers are now 8-0
San Dimas 28, Pomona 0 -- That's three straight shutouts for the Saints defense. Lets just get to the finale and Baldwin Park already.
Glendora 24, Chino Hills 23 -- Amazing isn't it. Not only is Mark Pasquarella dancing on the busride home, but so is Damien coach Greg Gano, whose Spartans are in the drivers seat.
West Covina 32, Rowland 10 -- You knew at some point the Radiers were going to miss quarterback Michael Ball. The Bulldogs were just too physical and it showed.
Diamond Ranch 36, Bonita 29 -- The Panthers win a shootout in the battle for second in the Miramonte. But don't expect another miracle run to the title game.
Damien 17, Ayala 7 -- This is why we have the Spartans ranked so high, because when you play as many tough teams like they have, it was only a matter of time before they cracked through. A share of the Sierra League title is almost a formality now.
Charter Oak 41, Wilson 0 -- That's three straight Miramonte league shutouts for the Chargers, who can goose the league in the finale against Los Altos in a couple weeks.
South Hills 29, Los Altos 7 -- What once was a great non-league rivalry turned into another easy win for the Huskies.
Azusa 47, Duarte 6 -- The Aztecs a win a way from going undefeated in league for the second straight year.
Arroyo 45, El Monte 0 -- They shouldn't be tested again until the Mid-Valley playoffs.
Rosemead 31, South El Monte 28 -- The Panthers gave up the lead with 55 seconds left, then won it with eight seconds left.
Gladstone 38, Workman 0 -- You knew the Lobos not having Bradford would be tough, but not this tough.
Sierra Vista 19, Bassett 0 -- The Dons all but clinch a playoff berth.
Walnut 55, Nogales 17 -- The Mustangs bounced back after two straight losses. Now they have to beat South Hills next week to earn a playoff spot.
Covina 47, Ganesha 0 -- The Colts bounce back in a big way. It's looking more and more like they will be No. 3 from the VVL.
Gabrielino 12, Mountain View 7 -- The Eagles remain in the hung for a playoff spot.

For quarter-by-quarter updates of tonight's games, click thread

Above: Manny Salcedo leads Baldwin Park over Northview on Friday.

THURSDAY NIGHT'S RESULTS

Baldwin Park 33, Northview 6 - Manny Salcedo threw for 147 yards and accounted for four TDs as the Braves remained on course for a possible Valle Vista League showdown against San Dimas in a few weeks. The Vikings received 151 yards rushing from Marquise Thomas, who broke the shutout with an 80-yard TD run in the fourth quarter.

Diamond Bar 34, Chino 17 - Calvin Bishop accounted for three TDs, inlcuding a 95-yard kickoff return and the Brahmas broke through for their first win of the season. Andrew Cameron also passed for 190 yards for Diamond Bar, which improved to 1-7 overall and 1-2 in the Sierra League. Chino slipped to 0-8 and 0-3.

When you think of all the grief that Jordan and Jamie Canada went through trying to become eligible at South Hills, their family moving into the area only to be declared ineligible because of "athletically motivated," reasons, it stinks why others are allowed to transfer, even when on the surface it's obvious it's just another athletically motivated transfer. If a school has a grudge against a player, as was the case with Duarte's administration in regards to the Canada's, they can stop them by crying foul. If a school lets the kids do what their families wish, in Long Beach Poly's case, as with other cases like South Hills allowing Travis Santiago to go to Charter Oak without a fight, they can transfer without suspicion. The system isn't working, it isn't fair, read Bob Keisser's column in the Long Beach Press Telegram about Dylan Lagarde.

By Bob Keisser: In football, you know to watch the ball at all times, because no one has ever scored a point without catching it, running with it, kicking it or pursuing it. When it comes to quarterbacks in high school, however, you need to expand your field of vision beyond 100 yards. Perhaps to 100 miles, in some cases.

Bishop Amat just got enough big pat on the back, this time from Alemany coach Dean Herrington, who told the L.A. Times the Lancers are better than, gulp, Oaks Christian, the top-ranked team in the state in some polls, and No. 5 nationally by USA Today. Bishop Amat defeated Alemany 36-14. Oaks Christian defeated Alemany 28-17 in the seaon opener.

Once again, a local coach has stepped up and offered to help give insight to what's going on in cross country. This comes from Glendora assistant coach Bob Ramsey

Said Ramsey: Mt. Sac is the standard for cross country in the Southern Section, and this past weekend two thirds of the local schools tested themselves against the course's three huge hills and the intensity of the big meet atmosphere. Glendora had the top team performance, with their 80:27 effort earning them a #2 CIF-SS Div 2 ranking in the polls released Monday.† The Tartans had 4 of the top 6 local performers and 5 of the top 9.† In a merge of all 21 local schools, the Tartans lead with only 22 points, meaning that if they had raced against the 7 best performers from all of the other ESGV schools, Glendora would win 22-33. Los Altos, led by soph Joshua Sanchez, also put in a strong performance team performance and showed a big upside.

The Tribune's Fred Robledo, Steve Ramirez and Time Warner's popular Reginald Miller discuss four of Friday's top games. Don't miss it!

Friday's games
Loyola at Bishop Amat, 7:30 p.m.
West Covina at Rowland, 7 p.m.
Ayala at Damien, 7 p.m.
Glendora at Chino Hills, 7 p.m.

With less than a month before the playoffs, I'm going to list ten players in the running for player of the year. If you're not on this list, that doesn't mean you won't win it. So much can change once the playoffs begin, but if it ended today, these are the top ten in consideration. In no particular order of course.

Above: Azusa QB John Chavez, who is having a terrific season for the Aztecs.

Michael Ball, QB, Rowland -- He's played enough and done enough to warrant consideration. Who knows, if he returns in the second or third round of the playoffs, assuming the Raiders are still alive, it's not out of the question that he could do something magical and lead the Raiders to a title. Wishful thinking? Probably, but possible.

Tre Evans, RB/WR, San Dimas -- He does a little of everything for the one-loss Saints, ranked No. 2 in the Mid-Valley Division. If the Saints win it all, he could very well end up CIF player of the year. He leads the team in rushing, second on receiving and is among their top tacklers.

Geoffrey Vaughns, RB/WR, South Hills -- Moving the receiver to running back was the best thing to happen to the Huskies. He already has three 100-yard plus games rushing, but now is more of a combo threat with 502 rushing yards to go with 402 receiving yards. He's also huge on defense and the most complete player they have.

Manny Salcedo, QB, Baldwin Park -- Like the Saints, the Braves are a one-loss team and Salcedo is a huge reason. He is averaging a 143 yards passing, and has thrown over 100 yards in every game while almost averaging 50 yards on the ground. If the Braves win the VVL, he's your league MVP

Adam Muema, RB, Charter Oak -- Though he almost always seems injured, he continues to be the straw that stirs the drink for the defending champions. He leads the Valley with 950 yards, averaging 118 a game. He could have so much more, but he rarely plays a full game because the outcome is usually decided by the fourth quarter.

Darian Johnson, WR/DB, Bishop Amat -- The most electrifying player in the Valley. What he did against St. Bonaventure, the return kick and INT for a touchdown is what legends are made of. He doesn't have the amazing stats, he just makes amazing plays, the kind that knock the wind out of your opponents.

Steven Rivera, QB, Arroyo -- There is no QB with numbers that really compare, and this kid is just a sophomore. He's already thrown 1,306 yards and 16 touchdowns, averaging almost 200 yards a game for the soon-to-be-crowned Mission Valley League champs. I still say the Knights are the Mid-Valley Division sleeper.

Jay Anderson, RB, Bishop Amat -- If Anderson doesn't move the chains as consistently as he does for the Lancers, they're not undefeated, not even close. He has over four 100-yard plus games, averages 100 yards, and that's against competition most on this list no nothing about, unless of course if you're a Lancer.

John Chavez, QB, Azusa -- The Aztecs QB does a little of everything for the soon-to-be back-to-back Montview league champs. He's averaging 120 yards passing, is third on the team in rushing and second in tackles. What more could you ask of your two-way player?

Chad Jeffries, QB, Glendora -- Only a junior, he already has led the Tartans on two dramatic game-winning drives, and is among the area leaders in passing, averaging 130 yards with two 200-plus games. If the Tartans protect him, he'll deliver.

Above:That's right I said it.

There is a discussion on the Star-News blog about Monrovia being in the best shape to win its first championship after like, seven or eight finals trips. I'm sorry to say it, but they're not getting to the finals.

Mid-Valley rankings 1. Monrovia, 2. San Dimas, 3. Azusa, 4. Baldwin Park, 5. Paraclete, 6. San Marino, 7. Village Christian, 8. Arroyo, 9. Gladstone, 10. La Puente.

Message to Monrovia: I post these rankings to show the championship is going to be San Dimas and Paraclete. Sorry MTown, Paraclete is a different animal and its a shame that because they lost to some very tough teams, they will probably get the No. 4 seed when the playoffs start, which means they will knock off No. 1 Monrovia in the semis. I'm guessing No. 2 San Dimas will beat Baldwin Park for the VVL title, knocking Baldwin Park behind Paraclete, and moving Paraclete to No. 4. There is no way Azusa is losing to anyone in the Montview, so they're locked in at No. 3. Just as San Dimas and Northview found out last year, the rankings can work against you. Monrovia should play someone like Azusa in the semis, but with Paraclete looming at No. 4, I'm afraid they won't get to stop San Dimas again, Paraclete will.

About a year back Stevie R., listed his best high school football movies of all-time, but how about the best darn sports movies, period. I left out Steve's favorite, All the Right Moves, and also Eight Men Out, Bull Durham and Field of Dreams, but hey, this is my top ten. The comments aren't all mine, they're borrowed from film teaser's and MoviePhone with an added twist from your host. Here ya go, Robledo's top ten.

1. Rocky: The fist-pumping score, the charismatic turn by Sly Stallone, the glorious training montage, the pitch-perfect ending in which Rocky shows the champ what "showtime at the Apollo" really means ... I remember leaving the movie theatre and shadow boxing all the way to our car. I went back the next day to see it again. For the rest of the top ten, click thread

"You're asking for measuring sticks and what this and that means to this point. I don't see how you can measure something that isn't finished." -- Bishop Amat coach Steve Hagerty on the Lancers' 7-0 start, and what it means.

By Fred J. Robledo, Staff Writer
There's more than just good old- fashioned tailgating and the fresh taste of kettle corn on Friday nights at Kiefer Stadium. The Valley's proudest football tradition continues on its comeback trail, albeit with cautious optimism. With Bishop Amat 7-0 and off to its best start since beginning 9-0 in 1998, it's a reminder of how far the Lancers have come under second-year coach Steve Hagerty, but also a reminder of how prestigious the Lancers' program once was. To continue, click thread

Above: Charter Oak's A.J. Powell running in for a touchdown

Tribune Top Ten
1. Bishop Amat (7-0) - The best start since beginning 9-0 in 1998, a streak that was ended with a 7-7 tie against Loyola. Guess what, they get Loyola on Friday in the Serra opener. Keep it up boys, the Valley is watching.
2. Charter Oak (7-1) - With Bishop Amat playing so well, we almost forget the Chargers are on track to repeat as champions, a feat they have never accomplished in the long history of Big Lou.
3. Rowland (7-0) - If the Raiders can somehow defeat West Covina without Michael Ball, they should beat Nogales and go into the South Hills finale 9-0. I don't think they can do it, but I didn't think they would reach the Southeast Semi's last year either.
4. South Hills (5-2) - The most improved team over the course of the season, which is no surprise considering Steve Bogan is in charge. He generally uses the preseason to play tough teams and tinker with lineups. Now in the stretch run, the Huskies are starting to fire on all cylinders.
5. San Dimas (6-1) - What can you say, the defense is still nails, leading the Valley by allowing an average of just under ten points a game. If they keep this up, a rematch with Monrovia in the playoffs would be mighty interesting.
6. Baldwin Park (6-1) -- Beating Pomona 33-12 was impressive, and they should have no problem going through Northview and Ganesha next before getting San Dimas in the league finale.
7. West Covina (4-4) - The Bulldogs 33-11 win over Walnut should at least guarantee a playoff spot, and they can secure second with another win over Rowland on Friday.
8. Damien (2-5) - What's a 2-5 team doing in the top ten? Well consider this: The Spartans are the only team in the Valley whose opponents all have a winning record, and four of them have just one loss or less. And yeah, their victories are over Claremont and Glendora.
9. Glendora (4-3) -- The danger of losing running back Andre Holmes for an indefinite period could affect theTartans' playoff hopes. If they don't beat Chino Hills on the road Friday (and the probably won't), they will have to beat Ayala in the league finale to get in.
10. Azusa (7-1) -- The defending Montview league champions are the the first team in the Valley to qualify for the playoffs. If they get a good draw, they could reach the Mid-Valley Division semis.

The Middle 10
11. Walnut (5-2), 12. Arroyo (5-2), 13. Pomona (5-2), 14. La Puente (6-2), 15. Workman (5-2), 16. Bonita (2-4), 17. Los Altos (3-4), 18. Diamond Ranch (1-6), 19. Gladstone (5-2), 20. Rosemead (2-5).

On the bottom looking up
21. Covina (2-5), 22. Wilson (2-5), 23. Sierra Vista (3-4), 24. Nogales (2-5), 25. Bassett (3-4), 26. South El Monte (2-5), 27. Ganesha (1-6), 28. Northview (1-6), 29. Diamond Bar (0-7), 30. El Monte (0-7), 31. Mountain View (0-7), 32. Duarte (0-7)

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TOP 10
1. St. Lucy's (21-4)
2. South Hills (13-5)
3. Walnut (14-4)
4. Bonita (11-6)
5. Los Altos (13-4)
6. Glendora (7-3)
7. San Dimas (16-4)
8. Ganesha (17-4)
9. La Puente (12-10)
10. Gladstone (20-6)

Comments: St.Lucy's is still is the barometer, winning two league matches by sweeps last week. South Hills takes advantage of Walnut's win over Bonita and moves into No. 2, with the Mustangs claiming No. 3. Bonita grabs No. 4 by following up the loss to Walnut with a victory over Division 3-AA power Brentwood. Los Altos rounds out the top five after taking care of business. A few words about the rankings: I base my rankings how a particular team is doing that week. If a particular team is No. 4, they hold at least that position, unless, in my view, they have played their way out, either by losing or not playing up to expectations against a particular opponent. If a team is rated No. 3 one week, they meet expectations by winning, and the second-ranked team loses, the move up. It's no different than what the Associated Press does with its rankings. AP moved Alabama up to No. 1 after Florida was sluggish the week before, then moved them back after Alabama almost lost the next week. No different here.

UPDATE: St. Lucy's rallies to beat Glendora, 22-25, 25-16, 26-24, 29-27
Deanna Dalton and Alissa Young had 14 kills each to lead the Regents (23-3, 7-0), who rallied back from a 12-4 deficit to outlast the stubborn Tartans (7-4, 3-2), who received 19 kills from Valerie Brain.
Glendora led 12-4 in the third game and 17-10 in the fourth, but couldn't hold off St. Lucy's, which clinched the match on back-to-back kills by Jasmine Warmington and Brenda Moscoso. There was also a funny set of circumstances in the second game. Glendora won the first game, 25-22, and jumped out to a 4-1 lead in the second when game officials noticed a line-up discrepancy in Glendora's rotation. They ruled to restart the game. But this time St. Lucy's jumped out to the early advantage, taking leads of 7-3 and 17-7 before winning, 25-16.
St. Lucy's coach Sean Douglas: "This is a group where I can challenge them, and they like to rise to challenges. I don't like playing matches like this, when they are crazy. But when push comes to shove, we push pretty hard, and I'm proud of them."
Glendora coach Jennifer Barbone: "I had never seen that before. But I tell my girls all the time that you can't make execuses, so that's not an excuse. You have to play no matter what."
Bontia def. Los Altos, 25-22, 25-15, 21-25, 25-21
Stats: Allie LaPierre (B) 25 kills, Katie Kirby (B) 21 kills, Victoria Dennis (B) 10 kills.
Other Scores
Del Rey League
Bishop Amat def. St. Paul 12-25, 25-18, 20-25, 26-24, 15-12
Miramonte League
Diamond Ranch def. Charter Oak 24-26, 25-20, 25-14, 25-23.
Montview League
Bassett def. Sierra Vista 25-16, 19-25, 21-25, 25-16, 15-10.
Gladstone def. Workman 25-15, 25-21. 25-11.
San Antonio League
South Hills def. Nogales 25-6, 25-11, 25-9.
Walnut def. West Covina 25-16, 25-12, 25-6.

I'm working on this for tomorrow, but I thought I would give you a sneak peak.

Charter Oak High School football coach Lou Farrar brought up a good point when asked about the results of last week's releaguing, which puts Charter Oak and South Hills in the Sierra League for the releaguing cycle than runs from 2010-14.
The Chargers are leaving the Miramonte and the Huskies the San Antonio for the more powerful Sierra, which will include Damien, Claremont and Chino Hills.
Farrar was asked how the Chargers would not only compete in the Sierra, but how they would do in the Central Division, which includes the Baseline, San Andreas, Sunbelt and Mt. Baldy Leagues. "Are we still in that division?" Farrar asked. To continue, click thread

By Fred J. Robledo, Staff Writer
With releaguing for 2010-14 finalized last week, some of the area's biggest rivalries are in jeopardy. For instance, with Glendora going to the Baseline League and Damien remaining in the Sierra League, Spartans coach Greg Gano and Tartans coach Mark Pasquarella agreed that it's probably better not to schedule a nonleague game against each other, since both teams will still compete in the Central Division and could meet in the playoffs. "We're not fond of meeting teams in our own division," Pasquarella said. "It's a game the school will miss, but not one that I will miss because of my ties to Damien (where he once coached). But I know the community would like us to play, so you never close the door on it. It's still a possibility."

CIF-SS Polls
Mid-Valley Division
1. Monrovia, 2. San Dimas, 3. Azusa, 4. Baldwin Park, 5. Paraclete, 6. San Marino, 7. Village Christian, 8. Arroyo, 9. Gladstone, 10. La Puente.
Pac-5 Division
1. Edison, 2. Mission Viejo, 3. Servite, 4t. Notre Dame, 4t. Lakewood, 6. Fountain Valley, 7. Bishop Amat, 8. Los Alamitos, 9. Dana Hills, 10. Millikan
Southeast Division
1. Rowland, 2. Charter Oak, 3. South Hills, 4. Burbank, 5. Crescenta Valley, 6. Walnut, 7. Bell Gardens, 8. Schurr, 9. Santa Fe, 10. Burroughs.
Central Division
1. Upland, 2.Colton 3 Rancho Cucamonga , 4. Colony, 5. Chino Hills, 6. Ayala, 7. Etiwanda, 8. Elsinore, 9. Cajon, 10. Arroyo Valley..

While we wait for the status on Glendora two-way standout Andre Holmes, who injured his right knee and watched the rest of the Damien game on crtuches, there are two other high-profile injuries to report. Workman's Kalin Bradford, among the area leaders with 846 yards and nine touchdowns, injured his right knee in Friday's game and will have an MRI this week. X-Rays were negative, but coach Fred DeLelio said they're aren't taking any chances. "We will probably sit him down the next two weeks and go from there," DeLilio said. Wilson quarterback Moses Vega injured his shoulder against Rowland Friday, but coach Brian Zavala is optimistic he will bounce back. "The x-rays were negative. He feels ok, hopefully he can bounce back soon."

Steve and I will go head-to-head throughout the season. Here is our updated records on the Tribskin Pick'em thread.

Robledo: Last week/Total: 14-3/112-35
Ramirez: Last week/Total: 12-5/103-44

Last Week: Steve and I missed on the same three games, taking Glendora over Damien, Los Altos over Bonita and drumroll....Northview over Ganesha. Let me type that again, Northview over Ganesha? When you think of tough Northview was last year, it's amazing to think they would lose to Ganesha a year later. I picked up two games on Steve because he was foolish enough to take Pomona over Baldwin Park and El Monte over South El Monte.

This week: There are four games I want to point out, first, Bishop Amat is almost in a must win in the Serra opener. With two of three at home, they do not want to wait to the season finale at home against Notre Dame, who has owned them since moving to the Serra, to clinch a playoff berth. Loyola is also the easiest of the three Serra teams, so take care of business now. With Glendora losing Andre Holmes to a knee injury, this could seriously dampen their playoff hopes. I'm taking Chino Hills at home over the Tartans, who will likely have to beat Ayala later to reach the postseason. If Michael Ball had been healthy, I might have changed plans and took the Raiders over West Covina, but not now. There is just no way they're going to win without Ball on the field. I'm also taking Damien over Ayala. Think of it, if the Spartans win, all they have to do is beat Diamond Bar and Chino the final two weeks to finish .500, and with it a second place finish in the Sierra.

This week's games and predictions
Thursday's games
Diamond Bar at Chino, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (DBar); Ramirez (Diamond Bar)
Baldwin Park vs. Northview at CDF, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (BPark); Ramirez (Baldwin Park)
Friday's games
Loyola at Bishop Amat, 7:30 p.m -- Robledo (BAmat); Ramirez (Bishop Amat)
Pomona at San Dimas, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (SDimas); Ramirez (San Dimas)
Glendora at Chino Hills, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (CHills); Ramirez (Chino Hills)
West Covina at Rowland, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (WCovina); Ramirez (Rowland)
Diamond Ranch at Bonita, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (DRanch); Ramirez (Diamond Ranch)
Ayala at Damien, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Damien); Ramirez (Damien)
Charter Oak at Wilson, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (COak); Ramirez (Charter Oak)
South Hills at Los Altos, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (SHills); Ramirez (South Hills)
Azusa at Duarte, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Azusa); Ramirez (Azusa)
El Monte at Arroyo, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Arroyo); Ramirez (Arroyo)
Rosemead at South El Monte, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Rosemead); Ramirez (Rosemead)
Gladstone vs. Workman at Citrus College, 7 p.m -- Robledo (Gladstone); Ramirez (Gladstone)
Bassett at Sierra Vista, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Sierra Vista); Ramirez (Bassett)
Nogales at Walnut, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Walnut); Ramirez (Walnut)
Covina vs. Ganesha at Covina District, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Covina); Ramirez (Covina)
Mountain View at Gabrielino, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Gabrielino); Ramirez (Gabrielino)

Breaking News: Fine, I'm being a little sarcastic, but the stats are on MaxPreps for all to read and digest.Go check it out.

By the numbers
Quarterback Jerry McClanahan -- 55 of 83 for 672 yards with 4 TDs against just 1 INT
Running Back Jay Anderson -- 120 carries for 550 yards (91 average) with 11 TDs
Receiving Darien Johnson -- 14 receptions for 233 yards; 4 kickoff returns for TDs, 2 punt returns for TDs, INT return for a TD.

Anything and anyone you want to talk about

Game of the week? As long as Bishop Amat keeps winning, they will start to dominate games of the week from here on out, and Friday is warranted facing Loyola in the Serra opener. This is the biggest of the three games by far, if the Lancers win, they will undoubtedly make the playoffs as a Pac-5 wild card at worst, which will take some pressure off in pursuit of winning the Serra title. If they lose, hold your breath, because they will either have to win at Crespi or home in the season finale against Notre Dame to get in. They might be 7-0, but the "real" season starts now.

Athletes of the week: Looking for nominations for boys and girls athletes of the week.

Thursday's games
Diamond Bar at Chino, 7 p.m.
Baldwin Park vs. Northview at Covina District Stadium, 7 p.m.
Friday's games
Loyola at Bishop Amat, 7:30 p.m
Pomona at San Dimas, 7 p.m.
Glendora at Chino Hills, 7 p.m.
West Covina at Rowland, 7 p.m.
Diamond Ranch at Bonita, 7 p.m.
Ayala at Damien, 7 p.m.
Charter Oak at Wilson, 7 p.m.
South Hills at Los Altos, 7 p.m.
Azusa at Duarte, 7 p.m.
El Monte at Arroyo, 7 p.m.
Rosemead at South El Monte, 7 p.m.
Gladstone vs. Workman at Citrus College, 7 p.m
Bassett at Sierra Vista, 7 p.m.
Nogales at Walnut, 7 p.m.
Covina vs. Ganesha at Covina District, 7 p.m.
Mountain View at Gabrielino, 7 p.m.

Damien coach Greg Gano
"It's a long time coming. Our kids played a heck of a football game. Maybe we will get some momentum, because we're a better team than what we showed against Chino Hills (38-6 loss). We needed this very badly."
Glendora's Mark Pasquarella on losing Andre Holmes to a first-quarter knee injury.
"We kind of scrambled a little bit because he's a big part of what we do. But the big issue was we couldn't protect our quarterback. If we can't protect him it's going to be a long night no matter who we're playing."

Friday's results
Damien 21, Glendora 0 -- The Spartans are back in the Sierra League race after blanking the Tartans and sacking quarterback Chad Jeffries five times. The news is worse for Glendora, who lost RB/DB Andre Holmes to a knee injury in the first quarter. He watched the rest of the game on crutches.
Bishop Amat 36, Alemany 14 -- The wins are more impressive by the week. The Lancers are no longer squeaking by quality opponents, they're shoving them aside with the powerful Serra League up next.
Bonita 26, Los Altos 20 -- It went back-and-forth with the Bearcats mounting a last minute drive to pull it off. The heartache continues for the Conqs.
Charter Oak 12, Diamond Ranch 0 -- The Panthers usually play the Chargers tough, but the outcome is always the same, another loss.
La Puente 38, Bassett 6 -- Another easy win for the Warriors, making you wonder what happened against Azusa.
Workman 45, Sierra Vista 20 -- The Lobos keep themselves in the thick of the Montview race with a whipping over the Dons.
South Hills 42, Nogales 17 -- The Huskies put on the breaks by halftime and cruised home. They get Los Altos before finishing with Walnut and Rowland.
West Covina 31, Walnut 11 -- The Bulldogs bounce back, winning the game both teams had to have in a tight playoff race in the San Antonio.
San Dimas 35, Covina 0 -- The Saints defense does it again, blanking an offensive-minded Colts squad.
Ganesha 9, Northview 7 -- The Vikings allow the Giants to win their first Valle Vista league game since 2002 ... Can you say, "ouch."
Rowland 56, Wilson 12 -- The Raiders don't have any problems in game one after Michael Ball's injury, but they still have South Hills and West Covina to deal with at some point.
Arroyo 41, Gabrielino 0 -- The Knights continue to cruise through the Mission Valley league, winning another easy one.
Rosemead 41, Mountain View 7 -- The Panthers need wins to get themselves back in the playoffs. This only helps.
Ayala 43, Diamond Bar 10 -- The Brahmas continue to struggle and struggle badly.
South El Monte 22, El Monte 19 -- That's 2-0 in the MVL for the Eagles, who won the first annual Griffin Bowl

For quarter-by-quarter updates, click thread

By Steve Ramirez, Staff Writer
LONG BEACH - Dwayne DeSpain's status at Los Altos, and in the Valley, was legendary. The former Los Altos High School football coach is arguably the best coach in the area's history, and now he has his spot among the best in the CIF-Southern Section.
DeSpain, who won seven CIF-SS divisional titles from 1972-1988, was inducted into the CIF-SS Hall of Fame on Thursday during the CIF-SS Council meeting at The Grand Event Center. "I humbly accept it," said DeSpain, who now lives in San Diego. "I had a great staff. They were very loyal and they worked hard. And I had good principals who backed us 100 percent, and we had great athletes."

Thursday's results
Baldwin Park 33, Pomona 12 -- The Braves' special season continues, scoring big against a stingy Red Devils defense. You tell me, how good are these guys?
Azusa 14, Gladstone 7 -- This was much closer than expected, but the results are the same, the Aztecs win again.

Hello all,
I just got back from the CIF-SS meeting and Proposal A, which called for moving Glendora to the Baseline League and South Hills and Charter Oak in the Sierra League and keeping Rowland in the Miramonte/San Antonio League was approved 6-1 by the Mt. SAC area league resenatives. Appeals by South Hills, Rowland and Glendora in favor of Proposal C, which would have kept Glendora in the Sierra League and moved Rowland into the Valle Vista League was denied by the CIF-SS council, 37-27, with five abstentions.
Here's how the Mt. San Antonio College area will now look, beginning next fall.

Baseline League: Alta Loma, Etiwanda, Glendora, Los Osos, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland
Sierra League: Ayala, Charter Oak, Chino Hills, Claremont, Damien/St. Lucy's, South Hills
Miramonte/San Antonio League: Bonita, Diamond Bar, Diamond Ranch, Los Altos, Rowland, Walnut, West Covina
Mt. Baldy League: Chaffey, Chino, Colony, Don Lugo, Garey, Montclair, Ontario
Valle Vista League: Baldwin Park, Covina, Nogales, Northview, Pomona, San Dimas, Wilson
Montview League: Azusa, Bassett, Duarte, Ganesha, Gladstone, La Puente, Sierra Vista, Workman

By Fred J. Robledo, Staff Writer
When it comes to the production of Glendora High School senior running back Andre Holmes, the facts are indisputable for the third-year starter. Give him the rock, and he will take care of the rest. Only four times in Holmes' career has he been given 20 or more carries, and look what he's done each time coach Mark Pasquarella has called his number. To continue reading, click thread

With Bishop Amat enjoying its best start in more than a decade, how will the 6-0 Lancers finish the season? Their remaining schedule is as follows
Friday: vs. Alemany (3-3), 7:30 p.m. -- Alemany beat Crespi 21-17, lost to Oaks Christian (28-17).
Oct. 30: vs. Loyola (3-3), 7:30 p.m. -- Loyola beat St. John Bosco 21-10, lost Mission Viejo, 36-7.
Nov. 6: at Crespi (3-3), 7:30 p.m. -- Crespi beat Saugus 50-0, lost St. Bonaventure 42-41 OT
Nov. 13: vs. Notre Dame (5-1) -- Notre Dame beat St. Francis 28-24, lost Moorpark, 27-14

You want rumors, the buzz I'm hearing is that if Glendora is moved to the Baseline Leauge, which is my opinion is a completely raw deal based on the procedures that are supposed to be used in determining whether schools should move up or down, the Tartans could push to be come a freelance school and play a nonleague schedule in all sports. I don't think it will happen, but that's what I have heard. The other buzz I'm hearing is that Proposal A will likely pass on Thursday, so get ready for more last-minute appeals, which seem to be the only chance that Glendora, Charter Oak, South Hills and Rowland have.

Today's story: After a vote by 42 principals and two appeals hearings, the Mt. SAC- area league realignment for 2010-14 will go to a final vote on Thursday at The Grand Event Center in Long Beach by the seven league representatives that form the Mt. SAC area, which includes the Baseline, Miramonte, Montview, Mt. Baldy, San Antonio, Sierra and Valle Vista leagues. Three proposals are on the table for the Mt. SAC-area league representatives to consider, beginning with Proposal A, which was the original proposal voted on last spring by the 42 principals of the Mt. SAC area. To contiue, click thread

Above: Rowland wide receiver Leonardo Freeman becomes the quarterback in Michael Ball's absence.

Tribune Top Ten
1. Bishop Amat (6-0) - If someone told me the Lancers would start 6-0 with what they had returning, I would have stuck one of those Bishop Amat bumper stickers over their mouth and laughed. It's amazing, the Lancers deserve to stay No. 1 even if they lose, but I caution, this could be where the rubber meets the road. The next four include Alemany, Crespi, Loyola and Notre Dame.
2. Charter Oak (6-1) - After the Chargers dispose of Diamond Ranch on Friday (whom they beat every year), they will cruise through the rest of the Miramonte to finish 4-0 and 9-1 overall, which will be good enough for the top seed in the Southeast playoffs. How's that for an obvious prediction?
3. Rowland (6-0) - It's not fair to drop a team after they win as impressively as the Raiders did, knocking off undefeated Walnut 27-7. But the fact is they're holding onto this ranking by a thread now that that all-everything QB Michael Ball broke his collarbone and is out six weeks.
4. South Hills (4-2) - The Huskies make the biggest leap from No. 7 after thoroughly dominating rival West Covina. Jacob Shirley looks like he's locked in at QB, and now they have a legitimate one-two punch in the backfield with Geoffrey Vaughns and Jamel Hart.
5. Glendora (4-2) - The Tartans seemed to have sorted out their consistency issues, winning three straight, but that loss to West Covina is glaring considering what South Hills just did to them.
6. San Dimas (5-1) - With Covina, Ganesha and Northview to follow, there is no reason to believer the Saints won't be 9-1 going into the league finale against Baldwin Park.
7. Walnut (5-1) - They're in the passenger seat, knowing they will have to beat West Covina this week or South Hills later to have a realistic shot at a playoff berth. That's right, they could finish 7-3 and not get in.
8. Baldwin Park (5-1) -- Just when you might be doubting the Braves, they come back and prove you wrong again. Just like San Dimas, they will be 9-1 when they meet the Saints in the league finale.
9. West Covina (3-4) - They better drink a bottle of get tough, because they follow their South Hills loss with Walnut and Rowland. I'm still not sure if the Huskies were that good, or if the Bulldogs had an off night, but I'm sure we will find out over the next two weeks.
10. Azusa (6-1) -- The defending Montview champs are at it again, winning by a 23-point margin in the most balanced Montview in years.,

The Middle 10
11. Arroyo (4-2), 12. Damien (1-5), 13. Los Altos (3-3), 14. La Puente (5-2), 15. Workman (4-2), 16. Gladstone (5-1), 17. Diamond Ranch (1-5), 18. Bonita (1-4), 19. Covinan (2-4), 20. Wilson (2-4).

On the bottom looking up
21. Gladstone (4-2), 22. Sierra Vista (3-3), 23. Rosemead (1-5), 24. Northview (1-5), 25. Nogales (2-4), 26. Bassett (3-3), 27. Diamond Bar (0-6), 28, South El Monte (1-5), 29. El Monte (0-6), 30. Mountain View (0-6), 31. Ganesha (0-6), 32. Duarte (0-7)

The number on St. Lucy's setter Jackie Macy's jersey says it all. The Regents are still No. 1

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TOP 10
1. St. Lucy's (15-3)
2. Bonita (9-5)
3. South Hills (11-5)
4. Walnut (12-4)
5. Los Altos (11-4)
6. Glendora (6-3)
7. San Dimas (13-4)
8. Ganesha (14-4)
9. La Puente (9-10)
10. Gladstone (17-6)

Notes: St. Lucy's continues to earn the top ranking after sweeping its fifth consecutive opponent. Bonita continues to pressure the Regents, also winning two matches in six games. The Bearcats should be tested against No. 4 Walnut. They can earn some brownie points with a sweep, but I wouldn't count on it. South Hills got the upper hand with a five-game victory over Walnut, but the rematch is in the 909. Los Altos moves up to No. 5 with its five-game win over South Hills, but how are the Conquerors stretched to five games against Diamond Ranch two nights later? Glendora slips after losing to Ayala on Monday. The Tartans have left little margin for error if they want to remain in the Sierra League race. The Valle Vista League is San Dimas' to lose after sweeping Ganesha. La Puente cracks into the top 10 with a four-game win at Gladstone, which was barely in the match.

Update: Walnut def. Bonita 20-25, 25-22, 25-23, 25-22 -- The wild ride of the area schedule continued Tuesday night as the Mustangs, fresh off a five-game loss to San Antonio League rival South Hills, rebounded with a win over Bonita. Walnut had four players with at least five kills, including Samantha Sheller with 12 and Leau Quiocho with 11. Allie LaPierre had 17 for Bonita, but the Mustangs were able to slow her down in games two and three to hold off the Bearcats. Bonita also got 16 from Katie Kirby.

Once again, a local coach has stepped up and offered to help give insight to what's going on in cross country. This comes from Glendora assistant coach Bob Ramsey

Said Ramsey: East SGV athletes had a great week 6, winning individual honors at two invites, and doing it in conditions that ranged from driving rain to high heat. Senior Jayson Perez (South El Monte) and soph Kristy Hebb (St. Lucy's) were the top individual performers.Kristy ran a strong second place in the rain in the tough Sierra League on Tuesday, while Jayson was easily the overall winner at Saturday's Bell Gardens Invite, where junior Lauren Justus (Glendora) was the girls winner. -- To continue, click thread

CIF Polls
Pac-5 Division
1. Edison (6-0), 2. Mission Viejo (6-0), 3. Servite (5-1), 4. Notre Dame (5-1), 5. Lakewood (6-1), 6. Fountain Valley (6-0), 7. Bishop Amat (6-0), 8. Los Alamitos (5-1), 9. JSerra (6-0), 10. Newport Harbor (4-2).
Southeast Division
1. Rowland (6-0), 2. Charter Oak (6-1), 3. South Hills (4-2), 4. Burbank (5-1), 5. Walnut (5-1), 6. Bell Gardens (5-1), 7. Crescenta Valley (4-2), 8. Schurr (4-1-1), 9. Santa Fe (4-2), 10. El Rancho (4-2).
Mid-Valley Division
1. Monrovia (6-0), 2. San Dimas (5-1), 3. Azusa (6-1), 4. Baldwin Park (5-1), 5. San Marino (5-1), 6. Paraclete (4-3), 7. Gladstone (5-1), 8. Arroyo (4-2), 9. Village Christian (6-1), 10. Pomona (5-1).
Central Division
1. Rancho Cucamonga (6-0), 2. Upland (5-0), 3. Colton (5-1), 4. Colony (5-1), 5. Chino Hills (5-1), 6. Elsinore (5-1), 7. Ayala (5-1), 8. Etiwanda (3-2), 9. Cajon (4-2), 10. Glendora (4-2).

St. Paul-Bishop Amat YouTube highlights

By Fred J. Robledo, Staff Writer
Junior quarterback/defensive back Michael Ball, broke his collarbone when Walnut's Aubrey Coleman pulled his face mark. It resulted in an unsportsmanlike penalty and Ball leaving the game in an ambulance. Rowland coach Craig Snyder said Ball is out at least six weeks, which means he possibly could return in time for the second or third round of the playoffs should the Raiders reach that stage. "It was a blatant cheap shot," Snyder said of Coleman's action. "He tackled all night going for the head. When you watch him tackle, his arms are always going above the pads." To continue, click thread

Steve and I will go head-to-head throughout the season. Here is our updated records on the Tribskin Pick'em thread.

Robledo: Last week/Total: 10-6/98-32
Ramirez: Last week/Total: 13-3/91-39

Last Week: Steve is chipping away, making up three games over the weekend to cut my lead to seven. The big differences were that he took South Hills over West Covina, Northview over Pomona and Baldwin Park over Covina, which obviously I missed and missed badly. We both missed terribly picking Damien. I was getting text message updates from my buddy Tom and by the end of the first quarter, that game was over.
This week: Not a real difficult time making these picks, if I lose more than two something's wrong. The only real difficult games were Los Altos-Bonita, of which I took L.A., and Alemany-Bishop Amat, which of course I'm sticking with the Lancers (even though Alemany is 4-2 with a win over Crespi). I would have included Damien-Glendora in the toss-ups, but not after what Chino Hills did to the Spartans on Friday.

This week's games and predictions
Thursday's games
Azusa vs. Gladstone at Citrus College, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Azusa); Ramirez (Azusa)
Baldwin Park vs. Pomona at Ganesha, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (BPark); Ramirez (Pomona)
Friday's games
Bonita at Los Altos, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Los Altos); Ramirez (Los Altos)
Diamond Ranch vs. Charter Oak at Ganesha, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (COak); Ramirez (Ch. Oak)
El Monte at South El Monte, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (SElMonte); Ramirez (El Monte)
Gabrielino at Arroyo, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Arroyo); Ramirez (Arroyo)
Mountain View at Rosemead, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Rosemead); Ramirez (Rosemead)
La Puente at Bassett, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (La Puente); Ramirez (La Puente)
Workman vs. Sierra Vista at La Puente, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Workman); Ramirez (Workman)
South Hills at Nogales, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (South Hills); Ramirez (South Hills)
Walnut at West Covina, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (West Covina); Ramirez (West Covina)
Damien vs. Glendora at Citrus College, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Glendora); Ramirez (Glendora)
Diamond Bar at Ayala, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Ayala): Ramirez (Ayala)
Covina at San Dimas, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (San Dimas); Ramirez (San Dimas)
Ganesha vs. Northview at Covina District, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Northview); Ramirez (Northview)
Alemany at Bishop Amat, 7:30 p.m. -- Robledo (Bishop Amat); Ramirez (Bishop Amat)
Wilson at Rowland, 7 p.m. -- Robledo (Rowland); Ramirez (Rowland)

Talk about quotable, this is one of the best of the year from Citrus coach Ron Ponciano after receiver Matthew Cheaney couldn't hold on to a fourth-down throw from quarterback DeQuan Everett at the Cerritos 15 with two minutes to play. Citrus lost 21-16. "I wish I could have that last one back," Cheaney said. "That's a play I need to make." Said Ponciano: "The ball was right in his chest. If it were a knife, it would have killed him."

For those who will take that too seriously, lighten up with the infamous "Baby Dance" making its rounds on YouTube.

Anything and anyone you want to talk about

Quotable:"That's unreal," former Lancers and UCLA corner Sheldon Price said of Bishop Amat's start. "When you think of who they lost - myself, DeShawn Gaisie, Isaiah Bowens and all those guys on defense - I would have never expected it. They're having a better year than we had (7-4). I'm so proud of them. It all goes to show what hard work can get you."

Game of the week? There are four under consideration, Charter Oak-Diamond Ranch, Damien-Glendora, Walnut-West Covina, Alemany-Bishop Amat.
Bishop Amat history?: The 6-0 start is the best this decade, can anyone tell me the last time a Lancers team started 6-0 or better?
More Bishop Amat: It's just a thought, but someone over there should start inputting stats on MaxPreps or provide some public forum for fans to access stats. If Bishop Amat can sell season seats, they can certainly provide stats for the community.
Athletes of the week: Looking for nominations for boys and girls athletes of the week.

Thursday's games
Azusa vs. Gladstone at Citrus College, 7 p.m.
Baldwin Park vs. Pomona at Ganesha, 7 p.m.
Friday's games
Bonita at Los Altos, 7 p.m.
Diamond Ranch vs. Charter Oak at Ganesha, 7 p.m.
El Monte at South El Monte, 7 p.m.
Gabrielino at Arroyo, 7 p.m.
Mountain View at Rosemead, 7 p.m.
La Puente at Bassett, 7 p.m.
Workman vs. Sierra Vista at La Puente, 7 p.m.
South Hills at Nogales, 7 p.m.
Walnut at West Covina, 7 p.m.
Chino Hills at Chino 7 p.m.
Damien vs. Glendora at Citrus College, 7 p.m.
Diamond Bar at Ayala, 7 p.m.
Covina at San Dimas, 7 p.m.
Ganesha vs. Northview at Covina District, 7 p.m.
Alemany at Bishop Amat, 7:30 p.m.
Wilson at Rowland, 7 p.m.