Football Notebook: Hall of Fame All-Star practice underway at West Covina, game set for June 25 at Baldwin Park High School

Jerone Cox, who left Duarte for Baldwin Park but was ineligible, will suit up for the game. Also, Amat studs Johnson, Cazares and Kane stand out.

By Aram Tolegian
West Covina High School football coach Mike Maggiore liked what he saw right away from his East squad during Monday’s opening practice for the Hall of Fame All-Star Game on June 25 at Baldwin Park. Maggiore estimated he had 35 players participating with others held up by prior commitments related to end-of-school-year activities. (To continue, click thread).


“It looks like we’re going to be OK,” Maggiore said. “I don’t know if we can compete with the other team, but we have a little more talent than I’m used to seeing.”

Maggiore cited the defense as the most impressive unit, and it’s not hard to see why given some of the talent he’ll be working with.

Amat standouts Darien Johnson, Davis Cazares and Daniel Kane all made good impressions. As did Charter Oak linebacker Keith Smith, who looks like he’ll anchor the East defense along with San Dimas’ Justin Winrow and Baldwin Park’s Christian Lazaro.

“It just looks like the kids just understand football,” Maggiore said. “Nothing against our kids at West Covina, but these guys pick up things quick. They seem too smart. You look at them and they’re always in the right spot.

“We’re trying to make it so they know what they’re doing and they can play hard and use their ability instead of trying to think too much.”

Diamond Ranch quarterback Gus Viramontes opened eyes with his athleticism and it looks like he’ll play a key role on the East’s offense. Viramontes will have plenty of help with talents like South Hills’ Geoffrey Vaughns and West Covina’s Ricky Johnson to work with.

The East will hold its second practice on Thursday between 6-8 p.m. at West Covina. The team will begin full-pads workouts on Monday.

Cox gets final chance

Former Duarte standout Jerone Cox, who wasn’t allowed to play this past season at Baldwin Park when CIF ruled him ineligible, has made the East roster and already is making an impression with coaches.

Cox will be used primarily as a defensive back, but also could see some time at receiver.

Events at Charter Oak

Charter Oak will hold a youth football clinic at Royal Oak Middle School on Saturday, June 12 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Former Chargers standout Jason David, who played last season with the Detroit Lions, will be a guest speaker.

Registration is between 8-9 a.m. and the cost is $20. There are 175 participants already signed up.

On June 21, Charter Oak will host a fundraiser golf tournament at San Dimas Canyon Golf Course to raise money for new uniforms.

The cost is $100 per person and $500 for a four-man team. The event starts at 1 p.m. with a shotgun start at 2. For more information, contact Charter Oak coach Lou Farrar at 626-915-5841, Ext. 529.

On June 26 David will host his own camp on Charter Oak’s practice field. The camp is free and interested parties can register by visiting www.jasondavidscorner.org.

Pucci picks Mt. Union

Damien offensive lineman Zachery Pucci will play at Division III powerhouse Mount Union College in Alliance, Ohio this fall.

Pucci was an all-Sierra League selection this past season for the Spartans and is expected to play center at Mount Union.

Mount Union is located an hour southeast of Cleveland. The team went 14-1 last season, won its 18th consecutive Ohio Athletic Conference championship and advanced to the Stagg Bowl, the national championship game, for the fifth year in a row.

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