June 2011 Archives
You learn a few things with players and coaches visiting the Tribune on picture day for the PrepXtra Football preview magazine that is scheduled to debut on Aug. 30. Jim Arellanes, who was recently fired at Los Altos, is now an assistant at Baldwin Park with coach James Heggins. Brian Zavala, who was let go at Wilson, is now an assistant at Gladstone with Albert Sanchez. I also loved my brief conversation with new Wilson coach Bob Burt, the only coach in our area who has coached a Division 1 football program. Burt coached Cal State Northridge in the early 90s.
No wonder Aram's been turning in mileage lately, he's been all over the place giving his opinion on summer passing league tournaments, and the best eateries on his road trips. Read Aram's reaction to Monrovia, West Covina, Claremont, La Puente and Ganesha's passing game on Tuesday from West Covina High
Charter Oak won the Bonita air assault over the weekend, with coach Lou Farrar offering another classic quote, "Something's growing, I can feel it. After all these years, I just see something happening. We've got some kids who weren't at the top of my Christmas list last winter and spring, but they're starting to buy into the program. I'm happy to see this kind of growth with our kids." There is also a good video interview with Diamond Bar coach Ryan Maine and Arroyo's Jim Singiser following the Alhambra, Arroyo, Azusa and Diamond Bar passing game last week .
For those wondering what's up next, here ya go.
July 9: SGV Shootout (@Arroyo) Passing Tournament
July 9: Tournament of Champions @Santa Fe and Linemen Tournament (38 teams)
July 15-16: Claremont Passing Tournament
July 16: Ayala Passing Tournament
July 16: Los Osos Linemen compeition
July 16: Arroyo Linemen Competition (Azusa, Covina, Gladstone, West Covina (3 teams), Villa Park, Los Altos (2 teams), Monrovia, Baldwin Park, La Salle, Temple City ... I probably missed a few.
July 23: Ayala Linemen competition
Glendora's Gretchen Jaques reached the mountaintop of high school awards today, named the National High School Coaches Association girls swimmer of the year, essentially naming Jaques the top high school girls swimmer in the country. Here's what the NHSCA wrote about Jaques: Nicknamed "The Glendoranator" for her domination of her two current signature events, the 200 individual medley and the 100 breaststroke, Jaques completed a two-year sweep of the Southern Section (SS) Division 2 titles in both events, giving her a perfect 8-for-8 record in Division 2 individual finals, and also won SS Masters titles in both events. She is ranked No. 1 among high school seniors in both events. Jaques was the SS Division 2 champion in the 50 and 100 freestyle her freshman and sophomore years, and the SS Masters champion in the 50 as a freshman. As a junior, Jaques broke U.S. Olympian Janet Evans' national high school record in the 200 individual medley - a record that had stood since 1988 - in the preliminaries, and in the finals, she set the all-time California high school record with a time of 1:57.91, breaking a nine-year-old record. She also set the Division 2 meet record in the 100 breaststroke (1:00.83). She was the Swimmer of the Meet at the USA Swimming Short Course Junior Nationals in December, scoring a meet-high 94 points, and was honored by Sports Illustrated magazine in its Faces in the Crowd section in the Jan. 24 issue. A three-time San Gabriel Valley Tribune Swimmer of the Year, Jaques will attend the University of Texas.
The best report cards over the summer come from coaches who spend their weekends at summer passing leagues, and several I've spoke with this week have said the same thing, that Charter Oak's Travis Santiago and Arroyo's Steven Rivera have been head and shoulders above the rest. The way Charter Oak's offensive coordinator Dominic Farrar and Arroyo coach Jim Singiser utilize the two suggest they're in for monster years too. In fact, I would be surprised if come week seven, eight and nine if Santiago and Rivera aren't the top two in the Valley in passing yardage and touchdowns because they will be among the leaders in attempts too. There are several other quarterbacks to consider, but here's my list of the Super Six for 2011.
1. Travis Santiago, Charter Oak -- He threw for 2,418 and 21 touchdowns last year and is even more confident and experienced this season. He will probably wind up with over 3,000 yards and over 30 touchdowns, but the bigger question is the offensive line and can they win against other good teams in the Sierra. I hope it's not like a Daniel Kessler situation where you throw for a lot of yards and touchdowns, and then your team is one-and-done in the postseason. But I'm with most observers in that Santiago has been the best QB over the summer and if you had to put your finger on a preseason favorite for player of the year, he's had the kind of summer that warrants it.
2. Steven Rivera, Arroyo -- A coach told me if he could take any quarterback in the Valley, he would take Rivera. He also said if he had the same type of supporting cast that you find at Charter Oak, Bishop Amat, West Covina, etc, etc, it would prove his point even further. No argument here. Rivera's been under center since he was a freshman, and he's been good since then. You take Rivera away from Arroyo, they win two, maybe three games. With him, they have a shot at the Mid-Valley Division title. Who is worth more to their team than that?
3. Rio Ruiz, Bishop Amat -- It will be interesting how they use Ruiz, because RB Jalen Moore is a beast and the most important piece to their offense. They will also have Zach Shay returning and will probably run more than they throw. In terms of total offense, nobody touches Amat, they simply have too many weapons. In terms of talent, give Ruiz 30 attempts a night and he's among the area passing leaders too. But that won't happen at Amat.
4. Billy Livingston, Covina -- We can't discount Livingston, in a spread like the Colts, he's capable of putting up big numbers too. In terms of total offense, Livingston should be among the area leaders with his ability to run the ball, and with options like Vinny Venegas and Geovantray Ainsworth, the Colts' offense will be among the best in the Valley.
5. Vincent Hernandez, South Hills -- Some will argue he's as talented as anyone on the list, but like Ruiz, he's their second option with Jamel Hart returning at RB. The Huskies also do not have the skilled receivers that others teams do, so it will be interesting how many attempts he gets per game. If all-purpose Jamie Canada returns from injuries, the Huskies' offense will be as balanced as anyone not named Amat.
6. Henry Omana, Diamond Bar -- He's a sleeper in that he had solid numbers as a junior and is with a new coach in Ryan Maine who desperately wants to return Diamond Bar to the area's elite. On paper, Omana's size and arm strength make him an intriguing prospect for college coaches. If he has a monster senior year, his stock could fly the roof. I also think Diamond Bar, not Diamond Ranch or Bonita, will be the biggest threat to West Covina in the Hacienda League.
Bishop Amat's Rio Ruiz won a gold medal over the weekend on the winning Babe Ruth team in the Tournament of Stars in North Carolina, a 3-2 victory over AABC. Then more good news came for the Big River on Monday as Ruiz was one of 40 players selected to the 18 and under U.S. National teams trial roster.
Here's where it gets interesting: The 18U National Team Trials are running today through June 30 in North Carolina, and will conclude with the inaugural Prospect Classic. The two-game series will match the 18-U team against USA Baseball's Collegiate National Team, July 1-2 in North Carolina. After that is concluded, team officials will select 28 players for the second round of trials Sept 12-21 in North Carolina. From there, 20 will be selected to compete in the 2011 COPABE Pan American AAA/18U Championships in Cartagena, Colombia, Sept. 23-Oct. 2.
OUTLOOK: What does this all mean for Rio and the Bishop Amat football team? It means their senior quarterback misses a few practices now, with the big decisions coming if Ruiz makes the 28-man roster in September, or the 20-man roster late September and early October. In other words, do you play for USA baseball, Bishop Amat football or both? I spoke with Rio's father, Rudy Ruiz, who said he will cross that decision-making bridge if Rio continues advancing with USA baseball. Rudy Ruiz said he will speak with Amat coach Steve Hagerty to discuss the scenario's and how it will work out. When I spoke with Hagerty, he said the news was to fresh to comment on. There are other things to consider such as school and the length of time he would have to miss. It's a unique situation, of the 40 players selected, Rudy Ruiz believes Rio is the only one who plays football for their high school team. My gut feeling is that Rio would opt to play football if a decision had to be made, but playing for your National Team in the Pan-Am championships in Colombia is as tempting as it gets.
Bonita's Matt Gelalich, arguably the best outfielder in the San Gabriel Valley this past season, announced over the weekend that he has accepted a scholarship offer from Pepperdine.
This goes to show hard work pays off. Bishop Amat's David Berg was a complete unknown who barely pitched at Amat prior to so his senior season. But he worked with pitching coach Chris Beck in developing a side-winding pitching motion that resulted in the most dominating season I've ever seen a middle-reliever at the high school level have. He was the glue that held things together, earning Del Rey and Division 4 first-team honors and it certainly didn't go unnoticed, with UCLA offering a scholarship. It is what it is, hard work at its best.
By Steve Ramirez
Staff Writer
WEST COVINA -- The strength of the San Gabriel Valley in football has favored the Eastside in recent years.
That didn't change Friday..
Former Pomona High School standout Jamal Overton rushed for 82 yards and the East sacked Muir's Jeffrey Davis three times during the final three minutes to lead the East to a 7-6 victory in the 32nd Hall of Fame Game at West Covina High School.
The East, which rolled to a 40-0 victory last year, won for the eighth time in the past nine meetings.
"I was just thinking if we sack them here, we win," said Northview's Chris Auxier, who forced a punt with just over a minute to play when he dropped Davis at his own 42. "When I got that last sack, and I knew we won, it made everything feel so much better."
HALL OF FAME GAME
East 7, West 6
West 0-0-6-0--6
East 0-7-0-0--7
E: George Johnson 13 run (Jeff Stamp kick)
W: Karl Holmes Jr. 21 pass from Nick Bueno (kick failed)
What: San Gabriel Valley Hall of Fame Game
When: Tonight, 7:30 p.m.
Where: West Covina HS
Series: East leads, 19-10-2
Last year: East 40, West 0
By Aram Tolegian, Staff Writer
The East's recent dominance in the Hall of Fame All-Star Game means very little to Covina High School football coach Darryl Thomas, who has yet to taste any success in two tries in the game.
Thomas, who has played and coached in the game, is 0-1-1 heading into tonight's renewal.
He's hoping to coach the heavily favored East to another dominant performance and add to what's become a commanding lead for the East in the series.
"I've been affiliated with this game twice and I haven't won," said Thomas, who lost as the East coach in 2001 and tied as a player in 1986.
The East won last year's matchup, 40-0, to take a 19-10-2 lead in the series.
Tonight's kickoff is slated for 7:30 at West Covina High.
As poised as the East looks to keep the pounding going, there has been some optimism out of Monrovia High where the West team has been practicing and, according to game organizers,looks capable of springing an upset.
Monrovia's Ryan Maddox will coach the West and has the services of Star-News Player of the Year Nick Bueno under center. Joining Bueno at quarterback is Muir's Jeffrey Davis.
Both quarterbacks couldn't ask for a better group of receivers to throw to, led by Arizona State-bound Muir split end Karl Holmes Jr., Monrovia's Jay Henderson and Arroyo tight end Sam Torres.
Defensively, though, the West will have its hands full with a sizable group of East receivers led by Walnut's Aubrey Coleman, who is 6-foot-5. As if that wasn't enough, the East will try Rowland's Michael Ball, one of the area's top weapons, at receiver.
The East also boasts Claremont's Aaron Dockery as one of its top targets.
Line play is an area where the series seemingly has gotten away from the West. Led by Fresno State-bound Allen Brown of San Dimas, South Hills' Peter Nonu and West Covina's Jon Cortez, the East figures to have another big advantage up front.
The East, which didn't allow a point last year, also should be tough to crack again this year thanks to a stellar front seven that's led by Amat defensive end Julian Gener and West Covina linebacker Maurice Dupleasis.
Gener and Bishop Amat teammate Michael Juarez will honor former teammate Austin Lacy, who passed away earlier this month, by wearing stickers of Lacy's No. 6 on their helmets.
After the preliminary rounds of the Los Altos-Workman High summer basketball tournament, the schedules for the weekend is as follows:
Today
At Los Altos
1:00 California vs Sierra Vista
2:00 Charter Oak vs Pioneer
3:00 Villa Park vs Cantwell
4:00 Los Altos vs Whittier Christian
5:00 Diamond Bar vs La Serna
6:00 Loser of Villa Park/Cantwell vs Mark Keppel
7:00 9th Place Pool Play game
8:00 Loser of California/Sierra Vista vs El Rancho
At Workman
4:00 San Dimas vs Huntington Park
5:00 Wilson vs Fresno Hoover
6:00 Upland vs Workman
7:00 9th Place Pool Play game
Saturday's games at Los Altos
Quarterfinal games: 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00 p.m.
Semifinal games: 7:00 and 8:00 at Los Altos
Sunday's games at Los Altos
3rd place game - 3pm
5th place game - 2pm
Championship game - 4pm
By Steve Ramirez, Staff Writer
The area high school swimming season ended the way it began, with Glendora's Gretchen Jaques and Damien's Jason Haney a cut above the rest. They keyed their respective teams to solid finishes at the CIF-Southern Section divisional finals in May, and for their efforts are the Tribune's girls and boys Swimmers of the Year. Nicole Flores of Sierra Vista and Glendora's Janet Pollard earned boys and girls Coach of the Year honors, respectively. (To continue click thread).
SAN GABRIEL VALLEY TRIBUNE ALL AREA SWIMMING
BOYS TEAM
Swimmer of the Year: Jason Haney, Damien Jr.
Coach of the Year: Nicole Flores, Sierra Vista
First Team
Sam Jardine, Claremont, Sr.
Johnny Beal, Damien, Sr.
Danny Lam, Sierra Vista, Jr.
Bennett Yuan, Diamond Bar, Jr.
Carson May, Damien, Jr.
Second Team
Sean Kao, Diamond Bar, Jr.
Eric Ting, Wilson, Sr.
Chris Katoh, Diamond Bar, Jr.
Michael Forbes, Damien, Fr.
Jaye Chang, West Covina, Jr.
GIRLS TEAM
Swimmer of the Year: Gretchen Jaques, Glendora, Sr.
Coach of the Year: Janet Pollard, Glendora
First Team
Andrea Grant, Walnut, Sr.
Noelle Tarazona, Claremont, Sr.
Emily Yu, Walnut, Sr.
Ashley Tse, Ayala, So.
Ellie Jaques, Glendora, So.
Second Team
Courtney McCadden, Glendora, Sr.
Kayla Clark, Ayala, Sr.
Sammie Keehn, St. Lucy's, So.
Christina Vu, Walnut, So.
Kelly Corso, Glendora, Sr.
What: San Gabriel Valley Hall of Fame Game
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Where: West Covina HS
Series: East leads, 19-10-2
Last year: East 40, West 0
By Aram Tolegian, Staff Writer
Michael Ball's senior season as quarterback of the Rowland High School football team was supposed to be one of redemption. Besieged by a broken collarbone suffered the year before, Ball was healthy last fall and seeking to build on the promise he showed as a sophomore and some of his junior season. Things didn't go according to plan. (To continue click thread)
Above: MIchael Ball and Rowland were having a fantastic season in 2009 when he broke his collarbone on this play. What followed was a frustrating senior year for Ball and the Raiders in 2010, who missed the playoffs.
Monrovia softball coach Randy Medina and his entire staff abruptly resigned, basically saying the pressure and expectations from parents forced him to come to the conclusion that returning for a 12th season wasn't worth it. "Our expectations was we wanted to do well in league and go as far as we can in CIF," Medina said. "To an extent I like the extra intensity that goes into travel ball, and I'm all for that. But the players, most of them play travel ball year round with intense schedules with four or five games in a weekend. High school is to be with your friends. It's a different mindset. It just came down to where it felt that they being the parents weren't happy and things got back to me. It's a small town. A lot of parents were on my side and they said people are saying this about you."
"My big problem was I had three parents who were not happy. They would talk about the program behind my back in adverse conditions. I think that hurt me the most. They were willing to talk about me, about my players and about my staff, sort of behind the team's back. And that bothered me. It bothered me that my staff was being talked about as ineffective. That's what hurt."
Fred's thoughts: I enjoyed covering Medina in MTown while I was at the Star News, he always came across as a knowledgeable coach with a genuine passion for what he was doing. He wanted to win as much as anyone, that was clear, and was a great example of what a high school coach should be. That's not enough for some parents, particularly travel ball parents who feel more entitled, but I wish Medina would have stayed on and not allowed the distractions to get under his skin. We deal with it in the newspaper business too, specialization has made experts out of everyone, and the experts love telling you why certain coaches aren't qualified, why so-and-so is better than so-and-so, and so on. Most parents are great, but the experts can be nauseating. My feeling is, the experts aren't going anywhere, so just deal with it rather than allow them to chase you off, which is why I wish Medina would have stayed on. Here's an idea for all the experts, you want to speak and make your opinions known? Any expert out there who has trouble with a coach and wants to debate or discuss the reasons on camera with me, I'm all in. I would love to see what you have to say when the spotlight's on you.
By Steve Ramirez, Staff Writer
The targets were squarely on their backs this season, but if anything, the pressure to live up to expectations just made Covina High School's Remontay McClain and Bishop Amat's Kylie Price stronger. And in the end, nobody in the area proved to be better. For their efforts, McClain and Price are the Tribune boys and girls track and field Athletes of the Year. (To continue click thread).
ALL AREA TRACK AND FIELD
BOYS
Athlete of the Year - Remontay McClain, Covina, Sr.
Coach of the Year - Kevin Glaspy, Covina
First Team
Sprints: Beejay Lee, West Covina, Sr.
Hurdles: Andrew Fischer, Diamond Ranch, Jr.
Hurdles: Toure McCully, Bonita, Jr.
Distance: Paul Ross, Claremont, Sr.
Field: Marquise Cherry, Diamond Ranch, Sr.
Second Team
Sprints: Andrew Aguirre, Damien, Jr.
Sprints: Patrick MacMullen, Damien, Sr.
Distance: Nick Rivera, Rowland, Sr.
Field: Klyvens Delaunay, Claremont, Jr.
Field: Farhan Jangda, Walnut, Sr.
GIRLS
Athlete of the Year - Kylie Price, Bishop Amat, Sr.
Coach of the Year - Dan Lodolo, Bishop Amat
First Team
Utility: Katherine Salcido, San Dimas, Sr.
Sprints: Brea Buchanan, Ayala, Sr.
Distance: Marissa Horton, St. Lucy's, Sr.
Field: Taylor Bernhard, West Covina, Jr.
Field: Ivy Nunez, Arroyo, Jr.
Second Team
Sprints: Khalalah Todd, Northview, Sr.
Sprints: Brittany Brown, Claremont, So.
Sprints: Yamani Wallace, San Dimas, So.
Hurdles: Ericka Johnson, Rowland, Sr.
Distance: Marissa Scott, Bonita, So.
Field: Sarah Barnum, St. Lucy's, Sr.
SOFTBALL
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Courtney Gano, Bonita, Sr
COACH OF THE YEAR: Jesse Mendez, Bishop Amat
FIRST TEAM
Pitcher: Danielle O'Toole, St. Lucy's, Jr.
Pitcher: Natalie Sanchez, Bishop Amat, Sr.
Catcher: Britney Rodriguez, South Hills, Jr.
Utility: Sydney La Follette, South Hills, Jr.
Infield: Nikki Girard, Chino Hills, Jr.
Infield: Cassie Padilla, Bishop Amat, Jr.
Infield: Stephany La Rosa, Diamond Bar, Sr.
Infield: Samantha Nieves, South Hills, Sr.
Outfield: Courtney Hine, San Dimas, Sr.
Outfield: Bree Sandoval, Bonita, Sr.
Outfield: Patricia Parks, Chino Hills, Fr.
SECOND TEAM
Pitcher: Nikki Innamorato, Chino Hills, Jr.
Pitcher: Taylor Langdon, Glendora, Jr.
Catcher: Kaylea Snaer, Rowland, So.
Utility: Veronica Ramirez, Azusa, Sr.
Infield: Alexis Gonzalez, Bishop Amat, So.
Infield: Kristen Stewart, South Hills, Jr
Infield: Sara Moore, San Dimas, Sr.
Infield: Samantha Valadez, Charter Oak, Sr.
Outfield: Jazzlyn Costa, Bonita, So.
Outfield: Liz Rubalcava, Diamond Bar, Jr.
Outfield: Nikki Sprague, Charter Oak, So.
By Fred J. Robledo, Staff Writer
With the high school football season nearing and teams in summer passing tournaments and setting-up for the push toward fall, the Chino Valley Unified School District transferred Ayala High School football coach and teacher Tom Inglima to Chino High for budgetary reasons, forcing the fifth-year coach out as the Bulldogs' head football coach.
Ayala principal Diana Yarboi explained her reasons for the transfer through a written statement, that reads in part:
"Mr. Tom Inglima will be transferred as a physical education teacher from Ayala to Chino High School for the 2011-2012 school year as part of budget adjustments for the Chino Valley Unified School District," Yarboi wrote. "It has long been the policy of Ayala to have the varsity football coach as an assigned teacher. Given Mr. Inglima's transfer to Chino High, a new varsity football coach will be named within the next two weeks."
Randy Reams, Inglima's offensive coordinator, is a teacher at the school and graduated from Ayala. He has been named the interim coach, a position that is expected to become permanent once he applies for the position. (To continue click thread)
We have learned that Arroyo baseball coach Don MacKinnon was dismissed from those duties last week. We will have a story later, but coach MacKinnon, who turned the Knights football program to an area power in the 1980s and 90s and who won the Mission Valley League baseball title this spring, was told by principal Oscar Cisneros last week that the school wanted to "move in another direction."
Arroyo was 14-9 in winning the league title this year. The Knights lost in the first round of the CIF-Southern Section playoffs.
MacKinnon will still teach at the school next year before retiring in June.
Aram reporting that Former Tribune Player of the Year and former Los Altos head coach Felipe Aguilar has left Arroyo where he was an assistant coach on Jim Singiser's varsity football staff and will return to Rowland. Also, several area teams are entered in Friday and Saturday's Bonita Air Assault passing tournament, which include host Bonita, Upland, Valencia of Valencia, Villa Park, Charter Oak, Jurupa Hills, Pasadena, Arroyo, Citrus Valley, Corona Santiago, Glendora, Jurupa Valley, Northview, Hart, Canyon of Anaheim, Kaiser, Glendale, La Serna, Riverside Poly, Loyola, Walnut, Chino Hills, Eisenhower, San Gabriel, Webb, Crescenta Valley, Bonita, Corona, Culver City, South El Monte and Whittier. For the Bonita air assault schedule, click link. West Covina reportedly has a fantastic freshman in Antonio "Noodles" Hull, who you'll see in a video as a member of the Compton Vikings JAA team by clicking this link.
Although Chino Hills High School athletics thrived under athletic director Jeff Stevens, he has been removed from his position as athletic director and reassigned to a full-time social science teacher, Stevens explained. Stevens said he wanted to remain on as athletic director, but the school decided to go in a different direction.
Coach of the year story: For his efforts, Nieto has been selected as Tribune baseball Coach of the Year after leading the Lancers to a 29-4 record.
2011 SAN GABRIEL VALLEY TRIBUNE BASEBALL ALL AREA TEAM
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Rio Ruiz, Bishop Amat, Jr.
COACH OF THE YEAR: Andy Nieto, Bishop Amat
FIRST TEAM
Pitcher: Justin Garza, Bonita, Jr.
Pitcher: Elias Novelo, Sierra Vista, Sr.
Catcher: Brennan Salgado, Glendora, Sr.
Utility: C.J. Saylor, South Hills, Jr.
Infield: Cameron Pongs, Chino Hills, Sr.
Infield: Ty France, South Hills, Jr.
Infield: Matt Munoz, San Dimas, Sr.
Infield: John Alexander, Glendora, Sr.
Outfield: Matt Gelalich, Bonita, Sr.
Outfield: Rouric Bridgewater, Diamond Ranch, Sr.
Outfield: Adam Alcantara, Bishop Amat, So.
SECOND TEAM
Pitcher: Daniel Zamora, Bishop Amat, Jr.
Pitcher: Matt Lee, San Dimas, Sr.
Catcher: Nick Hynes, Covina, Jr.
Utility: David Berg, Bishop Amat, Sr.
Infield: Nick Cooksey, Glendora, Sr.
Infield: Robert Mier, Bonita, Sr.
Infield: Joseph Keller, Chino Hills, Jr.
Infield: Kenny Mathews, Diamond Bar, Sr.
Outfield: K.C. Huth, Bonita, Sr.
Outfield: Jay Anderson, Bishop Amat, Sr.
Outfield: Dorian Granados, Damien, Sr.
Bishop Amat's Rio Ruiz won the Division 4 player of the year with coach Andy Nieto the Division 4 coach of the year. Others to earn first-team All-CIF include Division 2: Brennan Salgado (Glendora), C.J. Saylor (South Hills), Joseph Keller (Chino Hills); Division 3: Justin Garza (Bonita), Matt Gelalich (Bonita), Kenny Mathews (Diamond Bar); Division 4: David Berg (Bishop Amat), Adam Alcantara (Bishop Amat), Matt Lee (San Dimas) and Division 5: Elias Novelo (Sierra Vista).
For the complete list of All-CIF baseball selections, click link.
Division 2
Player of the year: Austin Saenz, Mission Viejo (12)
Coach of the Year: Chris Ashbach, Mission Viejo
FIRST TEAM
Devyn Bolasky 12 Vista Del Lago
Kyle Davis 11 Pacifica/Garden Grove
Michael Dingilian 12 Chaminade
K.J. Edson 12 Arcadia
Jake Gallaway 12 Etiwanda
Lucas Giolito 11 Harvard-Westlake
Travis Harrison 12 Tustin
Joseph Keller 11 Chino Hills
Troy Mulcahy 11 Crescenta Valley
Jacob Nottingham 10 Redlands
Zach Ortiz 12 Cypress
Boog Powell 12 Mission Viejo
Kyle Raubinger 12 Arroyo Grande
Andres Rodriguez 12 La Mirada
Brennan Salgado 12 Glendora
C.J. Saylor 11 South Hills
Corey Sims 11 Alemany
Kevin Wade 10 Trabuco Hills
Austin Watters 12 West Torrance
Dan Zandona 12 Santa Barbara
DIVISION 3
Player of the year: James Kaprielian, Beckman (11)
Coach of the Year: Kevin Lavalle, Beckman
Ryan Barker 11 Lancaster
Jakari Bass 12 Lancaster
Andy Crowley 12 San Gorgonio
Justin Garza 11 Bonita
Matt Gelalich 12 Bonita
David Herd 12 Paloma Valley
Brandon Horth 12 Woodbridge
Brennan Leitao 12 Woodbridge
Joppi Martin 12 University
Kenny Mathews 12 Diamond Bar
Ryan Mulvihill 12 Culver City
Tyler Rich 11 Colton
Chad Rieser 12 Beckman
Zack Rivera 11 Beckman
Timmy Robinson 11 Ocean View
OBryan Sanchez 12 Whittier
Jack Sheeley 12 Quartz Hill
Chance Sisco 10 Temescal Canyon
Kory Weeks 12 Rancho Alamitos
Frankie Wright 12 Alhambra
DIVISION 4
Player of the year: Rio Ruiz, Bishop Amat (11)
Coach of the Year: Andy Nieto, Bishop Amat
Adam Alcantara 10 Bishop Amat
Jacob Anderson 12 Chino
David Berg 12 Bishop Amat
Aaron Bernal 11 Colony
Scott Blumer 11 Troy
Nick Bueno 12 Monrovia
Corey Copping 11 Temple City
Bowdien Derby 11 La Salle
Chance Fuglistaher 12 Kaiser
Ryan Garvey 12 Palm Desert
Trent Gilbert 12 Torrance
Edgar Gomez 12 Indio
Ryan Hartman 11 Savanna
Brooks Kriske 11 Palm Desert
Matt Lee 12 San Dimas
Evan Ocello 12 Oaks Christian
Bobby Pettey 11 Sonora
Travis Radke 12 Oaks Christian
Tyrone Taylor 11 Torrance
Taylor Wetzel 11 Granite
Division 5
Player of the year: Adolfo Espinoza, Oak Hills (12)
Coach of the Year: Jason Story, Oak Hills
Ryan Borden 10 Citrus Valley
Ryan Bower 12 Lompoc
Nick Bruno 12 Hemet
Caleb Dirks 12 Woodcrest Christian
Adam Ehrlich 12 Campbell Hall
Michael Fagan 12 Linfield Christian
Christian Fillingame 11 Oak Hills
T.J. Follett 11 Big Bear
Max Fried 11 Montclair Prep
Sergio Luna 10 Cathedral
Ryan McNeil 12 Nipomo
Andrew Morovick 12 Tahquitz
Elias Novello 12 Sierra Vista
Trevor Oaks 12 Woodcrest Christian
Julian Perez 9 Cathedral
Andrew Ramones 11 Citrus Valley
Jamiel Robinson 10 Serra
Donnie Smith 10 Serra
Cameron Stanley 12 Whittier Christian
Taylor Ward 11 Shadow Hills
The area produced 12 All-CIF softball selections, which include from Division 2: Taylor Castro (West Covina), Courtney Gano (Bonita), Stephany La Rosa (Diamond Bar); Division 3: Natalie Sanchez (Bishop Amat), Britney Rodriguez (South Hills), Nikki Girard (Chino Hills), Samantha Nieves (South Hills), Nikki Sprague (Charter Oak); Division 4, Courtney Hine (San Dimas); Division 5: Veronica Ramirez (Azusa), Salina Gonzales, (South El Monte) and Karah Hernandez, (Rosemead). For the complete list of ALL CIF softball teams, click link.
Above: South Hills' Britney Rodriguez earned first-team after helping Huskies reach the title game for second straight year.
DIVISION 2
Player of the Year - Sarah Shadinger, Adolfo Camarillo (11) Pitcher
Coach of the Year - Jack Willard, Adolfo Camarillo
FIRST TEAM
NAME/SCHOOL YEAR POS.
Lisa Perez, La Mirada 11 Catcher
Shianne Ybarra, Mission Viejo 9 Outfield
Maylee Macahilig, La Mirada 11 Outfield
Emily Whitecavage, Vista Del Lago 11 Outfield
Kylee Lahners, Laguna Hills 12 Infield
Jenny Hurst, Dana Hills 12 Infield
Shelbie Franc, Adolfo Camarillo 10 Infield
Taylor Castro, West Covina 11 Infield
Tiffany Mikkelson, Aliso Niguel 11 Infield
Kaylie Garcia, Colton 11 Infield
Sharon Estrada, Cajon 12 Infield
Brittany Vansway, Irvine 10 Infield
Courtney Gano, Bonita 12 Infield
Lauren Chamberlain, El Toro 12 Infield
Stephany La Rosa, Diamond Bar 12 Infield
Brittney Boggs, Mayfair 12 Infield
Samantha Galarza, Valley View 11 Infield
Demi Meza, Oxnard 12 Infield
Katherine Macias, Arlington 12 Pitcher
Belinda Renne, Don Lugo 11 Pitcher
Allison Cukrov, Irvine 12 Pitcher
DIVISION 3
Player of the Year - Kiana Quolas, Oaks Christian (12) Pitcher
Coach of the Year - Peter Ackermann, Oaks Christian
FIRST TEAM
NAME/SCHOOL YEAR POS.
Erin Ashby, Crescenta Valley 12 Pitcher
Jill Compton, Arroyo Grande 11 Pitcher
Maxine Rodriguez, St. Joseph/Lakewood 10 Pitcher
Natalie Sanchez, Bishop Amat 12 Pitcher
Taylor Stewart, Chaminade 11 Pitcher
Franny Vaaulu, Warren 12 Pitcher
Britney Rodriguez, South Hills 11 Catcher
Katie Saunders, Mira Costa 11 Catcher
Austen Urness, Lakeside 10 Catcher
Allison Blackman, Peninsula 12 Infield
Nikki Girard, Chino Hills 11 Infield
Katie Hooper, Burbank 10 Infield
Alex Kossoff, South Torrance 11 Infield
Christie Langlois, Oak Park 11 Infield
Samantha Murrieta, Quartz Hill 11 Infield
Jennifer McNeill, Notre Dame/Sherman Oaks 11 Infield
Samantha Nieves, South Hills 12 Infield
Hanah Roberg, Oaks Christian 11 Infield
Coryn Taualii, North Torrance 11 Infield
Nikki Sprague, Charter Oak 10 Outfield
Taylor Alvarez, Paloma Valley 12 Utility
DIVISION 4
Player of the Year - Hannah Harris, Dos Pueblos, (11) Pitcher
Coach of the Year - Donn Roberts & Lee Harris, Dos Pueblos
FIRST TEAM
NAME/SCHOOL YEAR POS.
Danielle Vega, Aquinas 11 Infield
Sarah Stromwall, Arrowhead Christian 12 Infield
Maleena Esparza, La Habra 11 Infield
Emily Seidel, Village Christian 12 Pitcher
Breezy Bernard, Linfield Christian 12 Infield
Rylee Perez, Indio 11 Infield
Jesslene Contreras, Kaiser 11 Infield
Stacy Carazos, Patriot 10 Outfield
Courtney Hine, San Dimas 12 Outfield
Adrianna Cardoza, La Quinta/Westminster 12 Infield
Loryn Nichols, Calvary Murrieta 11 Infield
Thalia Ortiz, La Quinta/La Quinta 10 Infield
Stephanie Bergmann, Oak Hills 10 Infield
Karina Romero, Palm Springs 12 Infield
Selene Pola, Segerstrom 11 Infield
Mackenzie Hammar, Woodcrest Christian 9 Infield
Kendall Shea, Fullerton 11 Infield
Leanne Garrels, Valley Christian/Cerritos 10 Infield
Sarah Craig, Ocean View 12 Infield
Krystal Gabbard, Kaiser 11 Pitcher/Infield
Jordan Roberts, Dos Pueblos 12 Infield
DIVISION 5
Player of the Year - Lauren O'Leary, La Cañada (12) Pitcher
Coach of the Year - KC Mathews, La Cañada
FIRST TEAM
NAME/SCHOOL YEAR POS.
Jessica Avila, Citrus Hill 11 Pitcher
Courtney Cuzick, Nipomo 10 Pitcher
Michelle Floyd, San Marino 10 Pitcher
Alyssa Fuimaono, Beaumont 11 Pitcher
Veronica Ramirez, Azusa 12 Pitcher
Valerie Aguilar, Montebello 11 Catcher
Shania Hernandez, St. Monica Catholic 12 Infield
Salina Gonzales, South El Monte 12 Infield
Karah Hernandez, Rosemead 10 Infield
Vanessa Cordova, West Valley 12 Infield
Alix Cook, Marlborough 12 Infield
Jayne Tickemyer, Beaumont 12 Infield
Taylor Purdy, Barstow 12 Infield
Emily Sanchez, Schurr 10 Infield
Casey Snooks, Savanna 12 Infield
Melissa Zuniga, Katella 11 Infield
Anna Edwards, La Cañada 12 Infield
Tiffany Fox, Savanna 12 Outfield
Brittany Hirose, Mark Keppel 12 Outfield
Denise Gonzalez, Alhambra 11 Utility
Allison Lamb, Morro Bay 10 Utility
"That West Covina team was good. The Charter Oak team we played our first year in the finals was the best team we played. That team was better than the two Amat teams we played (in '08 and '09). West Covina was good (last year). They got their rings. But they weren't better than those two teams." -- Diamond Ranch coach Roddy Layton
QUESTION: Aram asked Diamond Ranch football coach Roddy Layton to compare last year's West Covina team to the previous Charter Oak teams that won back-to-back Southeast titles in 2008 and '09. Amat fans probably don't like his answer, but look at the scores ...In 2008, Charter Oak beat Diamond Ranch 23-7 in league and 30-7 in the championship. Against Amat that year they lost, 17-6.
2009 was a different story, Amat crushed Diamond Ranch 41-13 in a game that wasn't even that close while Charter Oak shutout Diamond Ranch twice, 12-0 and 21-0 in the championship game . I guess we'll never know, but I'm not buying it. No team manhandled Diamond Ranch the way Amat did in 2009, so lopsided I started writing my story in the first quarter. As for West Covina, I would agree both Charter Oak teams were flat out better.
Bishop Amat is hosting another Hit & Hustle Football camp on Friday from 6-9 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to Noon at Bishop Amat. The camp is $75 and includes a group photo, hot dog lunch and certificate of participation. Amat is also accepting applications for a lower-level offensive line coach. For more information on both, contact Amat head football coach Steve Hagerty at 626-962-2495, ext. 6001.
As we move into the summer and begin work on the second PrepXtra Football Preview magazine, we want to know who's changing or has changed addresses . For instance, just heard and confirmed over the weekend that Bishop Amat's Ben Kane, a 6-foot-2, 185 pound defensive end, has transferred to South Hills where he will be a junior this fall. Kane's older brother, Daniel Kane, was an all-area player in 2009 for Amat. We know there are many others, and if there is any other football-type related news you want us exploring over the summer, let us know. If you don't want to comment here, you can always email me at fred.robledo@sgvn.com.
Los Altos and Workman High School's are the host of 20 boys basketball teams participating in a summer league tournament that starts on Thursday and runs through Sunday. The schedule is listed below ..
Thursday, June 23
at Los Altos
4:15 Los Altos vs Pioneer
5:15 Mark Keppel vs Diamond Bar
6:15 Wilson vs El Rancho
7:15 Covina vs Charter Oak
at Workman
4:00 Workman vs San Dimas
5:00 Upland vs Whittier
Friday, June 24
at Los Altos
1:00 California vs Sierra Vista
2:00 Loser of Covina/Charter Oak vs Loser of Pioneer/Los Altos
3:00 Villa Park vs Cantwell
4:00 Winner of Pioneer/Los Altos vs Whittier Christian
5:00 Winner of Mark Keppel/Diamond Bar vs La Serna
6:00 Loser of Villa Park/Cantwell vs Loser of Mark Keppel/Diamond Bar
7:00 9th Place Pool Play game
8:00 Loser of California/Sierra Vista vs Loser of HH Wilson/El Rancho
at Workman
4:00 Winner of Workman/San Dimas vs Huntington Park
5:00 Winner of HH Wilson/El Rancho vs Fresno Hoover
6:00 Loser of Upland/Whittier vs Loser of Workman/San Dimas
7:00 9th Place Pool Play game
Saturday, Jun 25
At Los Altos
Quarter-Final games will be at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00 at Los Altos
Semi-Final games will be at 7:00 and 8:00 at Los Altos
Sunday June 26
At Los Altos
Games start at 9am.
Championship game - 4pm
3rd place game - 3pm
5th place game - 2pm
The fourth annual KG Sports Training Foundation Underclassmen All-Star Game will have a twist this season. There will be two games this time with blue and gray teams from the San Gabriel Valley taking on blue and gray teams from the San Fernando Valley. The game is Saturday at Northview High. The SGV Blue will take on the SFV Gray at noon followed by the SGV Gray vs. the SFV Blue, slated to begin at approximately 3:30 p.m. The game will try to raise two $500 scholarships to give out that day. Admission will be $10 for adults and $7.50 for kids. Below are the rosters.
BLUE TEAM
Coach: Brian Esquival, St. Francis
Sylvestre Sanchez, Montebello
Logan Beerman, Pasadena Poly
Jonah Campbell, Pasadena Poly
Gary Acuna, Alhambra
Juan Crespo, Alhambra
Jeff Bain, San Marino
Joe Wills, Covina
Nick Hynes, Covina
Angel Acosta, Gabrielino
Tei Vanderford, St. francis
Jeff Garavaglia, St. Francis
Anders Schraer, St. Francis
Dylan Trimarchi, South Pasadena
Erik Trask, Arcadia
Brendan Campbell, Arcadia
Elliot Surrey, Crescenta Valley
Kyle Murray, Crescenta Valley
Cole Currey, Crescenta Valley
Troy Mulcahey, Crescenta Valley
Josh Marrs, Maranatha
David McAlister, Maranatha
John Soteropolous, Loyola
Chad Powers, Loyola
David Sanchez, Cathedral
Josh Ibarra, Cathedral
Julian Perez, Cathedral
Chris Flores, Cathedral
Jonah Jarrard, Temple City
Calvin Copping, Temple City
Corey Copping, Temple City
GREY TEAM
Coach: John Knott, Bonita
Brendan Jauregui, Arroyo
Eddie Gutierrez, Baldwin Park
Justin Garza, Bonita
Thomas Castro, Bonita
Nolan Henley, Bonita
Oscar Montenegro, Charter Oak
Kevin Hides, Damien
Daniel Sandoval, Duarte
Ross Johnston, Duarte
Richard Bradford, Duarte
Aymen Nurledeen, Duarte
Dylan Goodwin, Diamond Ranch
Nick Vasquez, El Rancho
Victor Garcia, El Rancho
Ramond Sedillo, La Puente
Ethan Etchecaren, La Puente
Giovanni Morales, Los Altos
Joe Munoz, Los Altos
Steven Chamberos, Los Altos
Kevin Shue, Monrovia
Nick chico, Northview
Niko Castaneda, Northview
Shawn Kennedy, San Dimas
Giovanni Rivera, Sierra Vista
DJ Larios, West Covina
Michael Nijera, West Covina
Caleb Romo, Walnut
Jacob Chonski, Walnut
I probably should have been tipped off by the Guru since this was a Glendora to Crespi transfer, but just read that Glendora's 6-foot-6, 270-pound offensive lineman, Colin Prestesater, has enrolled at Crespi.
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 in the San Gabriel Valley.
The Guru Writes: "We are in the middle of June and it's just around this time that the three national football recruiting websites, ESPN Scouts Inc., Rivals.com and Scout.com are finalizing their players rankings for the class of 2012. Since there is only one player from the East San Gabriel Valley that is ranked by all three websites, I decided to list all the players that are in the SGVN Network. So here they are ..."
ESPN Scouts Inc.
Ellis McCarthy (DT, Monrovia HS), 4-Star
Aaron Porter (LB, La Habra HS), 4-Star
Kevon Seymour (DB, Muir HS), 4-Star
Taylor LaGace (WR, Arcadia HS), 3-Star
Tarien Owens (RB, Muir HS), 3-Star
Myles Carr (QB, Arcadia HS), 2-Star
Chris Solomon (S, West Covina HS) 2-Star
Scout.com
McCarthy (5-Star)
Porter (4-Star)
Seymour (4-Star)
LaGace (3-Star)
Solomon (3-Star)
Owens (3-Star)
Rivals.com
McCarthy (5-Star)
Porter (4-Star)
Seymour (4-Star)
LaGace (3-Star)
Owens (3-Star)
Solomon (3-Star)
Looks like the rankings are right on the money. Hoping to see Aaron Porter at UCLA this weekend or at USC next week. He is the only person that I have not seen in person at a game or a camp. (To continue, click thread).
Continue reading The Scouting Guru on area prospects and more.
Bonita is hosting Thursday's Passing League with Monrovia, Glendora, Rancho Cucamonga and Northview starting at 5 p m. Chino Hills was originally scheduled too, but backed out, so Bonita will provide an A and B team to fill out the six-team format.
San Gabriel Valley Hall of Fame Game
When: June 24
Where: West Covina HS
Series: East leads, 19-10-2
Last year: East 40, West 0
WEST
Coach Ryan Maddox (Monrovia)
Team: Antoine Peterson (WR, La Salle), Josh Simangunsong (RB, Temple City), Derrin Jenkins (DB, Monrovia), Nick Bueno (QB, Monrovia), Tim Sanderson (TE/LB Temple City), Jay Henderson (WR/S, Monrovia), Michael Jimenez (RB, El Monte), Howard Vaughn (LB, Muir), Karl Holmes Jr. (WR, Muir), David Maldanado (WR, Arcadia), Mike Amaya (DB, Arroyo), Chris Chiramonte (WR, Schurr), Gregory Castillo (S, Salesian), Andres Fernandez (WR/CB, San Gabriel), Alejandro Castro (S, Schurr), Kenny James (WR/DB, Pasadena), Sam Torres (TE/DE, Arroyo), Blake Edwards (CB, Pasadena Poly), Abraham Gonzalez (RB, Schurr), Andrew Medrano (LB, Lincoln), Ray Herrera (LB, El Rancho), Dominic Gonzalez (LB, Alhambra), Giovanny Berrios (LB, Lincoln), Noah White (OL, Pasadena), Kevin Ramirez (OL, San Gabriel), Dean Bisterfeldt (OL, Monrovia), Michael Rodriguez (OL, Duarte), Bryan Luna (OL, Crescenta Valley), Chris Salgado (OL, Alhambra), Genaro Torres (OL/DE, Salesian), Michael Lind (OL, South Pasadena).
EAST
Coach Darryl Thomas (Covina)
Team: Nick Alexander (LB, Charter Oak), Chris Auxier (OL/DL, Northview), Charlie Avila (DL, Charter Oak), Michael Ball (QB/DB, Rowland), Allen Brown (OL, San Dimas), Tyler Burns (OL/DL, Chino), Alejandro Camacho (DL, Bassett), Jacoby Carter (RB, Diamond Ranch), DeAngelo Cole (WR/DB Montclair), Aubrey Coleman (WR, Walnut), Randy Collins (LB, Walnut), Mike Cortez (OL/DL, West Covina), Bryan Cox (DL, Diamond Ranch), Wardell Crutchfield III (LB, Baldwin Park), Shaq Davis (DL, Claremont), Aaron Dockery (WR, Claremont), Travis Doll (C, Charter Oak), Maurice Dupleasis (LB, West Covina), Julian Gener (DL, Bishop Amat), Donny Hageman (K, Damien), Joseph Herrera (RB/LB Gladstone), Demetrius Jackson (DB, Baldwin Park), George Johnson (QB, West Covina), Mike Juarez (LB, Bishop Amat), Tarez Lemmons (OL/DL, Bonita), Jon Logan (OL, West Covina), Griffin Lord (LB, Damien), Mario Majano (DL, Wilson), Eric Mikity (LB, Bonita), Matt Murray (LB, Covina), Peter Nonu (DL, South Hills), Jose Nunez (LB, Azusa), Christian Orduno (OL/DL, Bishop Amat), Jamal Overton (DB, Pomona), Garrett Pendleton (QB, Bonita), Mario Rodriguez (QB/DB, Baldwin Park), Jeff Stamp (K, Diamond Ranch), Jordan Taylor (DB, San Dimas), Marquise Thomas (RB, Northview), Moises Torres (C, Covina), Adam Vanderloop (DB, Covina), Jeff Vargas (OL/DL, South Hills), Moises Vega (RB/DB Wilson), Tahir Sanders (WR, Northview), Hector Dominguez (K/P, Wilson), Demetrius Counts (RB/DB, Pomona), Andrew Cameron (QB, Diamond Bar).
Charter Oak hosted Tuesday's passing league scrimmage with Bishop Amat, Upland and J.W. North, so we used the opportunity to speak with Charter Oak coach Lou Farrar and Amat's Steve Hagerty.
Dom Farrar told Aram he could call the first play ... Aram got duped, but you're going to love his thoughts on Tuesday's scrimmage, and his interview with arguably the two best quarterbacks in the Valley.
Covina District is the oldest football stadium in the San Gabriel Valley? Is it time for a facelift?
Jim "King" McConnell's area history pieces are legendary, and today he writes about Covina District Field, which opened in 1925 (and looks like it hasn't been renovated since). It's used by Covina, South Hills and Northview, and is still one of the best places to watch football because of its intimacy -- the seats are on top of the field and the surrounding fences make you feel like you can reach out and touch the players. However, if you're planning on watching a game there, take you allergy medication and don't wash your car -- the parking lot is all dirt and dust. After all these years you would think the city of Covina would have done some renovations by now. It's never made sense, schools all over the SGV are renovating their stadiums with all-weather fields and in Covina, where you take care of three schools for the price of one, they can't even pave the parking lot. If you're going to spend money to build three new gyms at the Covina schools and spend all that money to renovate downtown Covina, maybe it's time to give the 85-year-old venue some love too.
By Jim McConnell, Staff Writer
CDF History: The oldest football stadium in the San Gabriel Valley? Try Covina District Field. Covina schools have used the field every year since 1925. The football field, originally part of the old Covina High School campus, was ringed by orange groves when it first opened in the fall of 1925. (To continue click thread).
By Aram Tolegian, Staff Writer
The coaching staffs for the upcoming Hall of Fame All-Star Game have had several practices to get familiar with their teams. And as you might expect, they have liked what they've seen. The game, which will take place on June 24 at West Covina High School, features the top football talent from the east and west sides of the Valley in the form of recently graduated seniors. The East won last year's game 40-0 and leads the series 19-10-2.
Continue reading San Gabriel Valley Hall of Fame football game starting to take shape.
"I'm happy with all the things I have and it would be hard to even think about leaving in our economy today, even if it is Glendora," said La Puente Brandon Rohrer.
By Tyler Drohan, Correspondent
The city of La Puente has been home to a rich tradition of football excellence. Five CIF football championships adorn the halls of Bishop Amat High School in La Puente.
However, head just five minutes away from the Bishop Amat campus to La Puente High School, where the Warriors have struggled on the gridiron for so long.
When former Glendora High School assistant Brandon Rohrer took over at La Puente High School in 2009, the program was coming off of a 16-36 record over the previous five seasons which included a 1-9 finish the year before.
Since then, Rohrer has led a turnaround that has seen La Puente match the 16-win total in just two seasons, amassing a 16-6 overall record and two CIF playoff appearances. "From the beginning, we knew we had to start with the basics and that was lifting, getting bigger, faster, stronger," Rohrer said. "We made a commitment as a coaching staff to making sure we were working hard in the weight room, so we could physically keep up with teams, especially in our league and our division."
The Tribune's spring all-area teams run next week on the following days, Baseball, June 21; Softball, June 22; Track, June 23; Swimming, June 24; Boys Tennis, June 28.
Remontay McClain, who last week became the third athlete to repeat wins in the 100 and 200 meters at the CIF State championships, finished third in the Dream 100 race at the addias Grand Prix in New York City.
Marvin Bracy, off, Boone High in Orlando, Fla, won it in 10.47 seconds, with Sean McClean, of Southeast Raliegh (N.C.), second at 10.48. McClain, of Covina High School, broke first and led through 50 meters before finishing third at 10:59.
Ammar Moussa, of Arcadia , finished ninth at four minutes, 8.05 seconds in the Dream Mile.
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 in the San Gabriel Valley.
This is the Scouting Guru at his best, writing about the importance of football camps, and then going on-and-on with his, "I think, I think," thoughts on the area high school football scene and more.
The Guru Writes: If it's June - then it's camp month for all the major universities across the country. It used to be that camps were just a fundraising tool to get some members of the staff taken care of for the summer. And to a certain aspect - it still is. However - camps are being used as a recruiting tool and a evaluation tool for coaches and scouts. The one school that has - in the past - used these camps to evaluate prospects was USC in the Pete Carrol era. I can't tell you how many camps we watched (or worked) when the talent was just bursting out of the seams. Things have change just a bit these days. But if you are a legitimate D-1 prospect, camps offer the prospect a bunch of benefits. Here are some of those benefits....(To continue, click thread)
Hall of Fame Update: I'm sure several are wondering about the June 24 Hall of Fame all-star football game at West Covina High. Yes, the game is still on and the teams are allegedly practicing . But no, we have not obtained all-star rosters, but hope to have them by next week. I love the Hall of Fame game, but organization isn't one of their specialties....
You can check out Aram's all-encompassing Tribune, Star-News, Whittier Daily News football top 25 list on his blog, but I'm going to shorten it to show his updated preseason Tribune Top Ten heading into the summer. Next week, I will come out with my first top ten and we're always curious to know how our know-it-all bloggers rank them, so have at it.
Aram Note: This is the second preseason rankings of the 2011 season. The previous one was for spring. This one is post spring ... and it reacts to what we learned/saw/heard. Another one will be out AFTER the summer passing/linemen circuit.
1. Bishop Amat -- Don't know what will happen prior to getting pads on that will make me feel more comfy about the defense. But we all know the offense should be dazzling.
2. West Covina -- Athletes abound, but QB and line positions are a concern. Back seven on defense and skill players outside of QB should be special.
3. Charter Oak -- I'm a little worried about the Chargers along both lines, but the skill talent is very impressive. Very impressive. But you need Clydesdales and not just Thoroughbreds to keep company in the Inland. Still my early Sierra League favorite, though.
4. Covina -- In theory, you would think that C-Town would be in line to pick up some serious hardware this summer, but Coach DT doesn't seem to overly sweat that. Despite the nonchalance toward passing tourney results, if the Colts do somehow run roughshod this summer that could be a scary indicator.
5. Chino Hills -- From the what I've heard file: Nothing to worry about along both lines. But then again, that's always the case at Chino Hills.
6. South Hills -- Would love to see a healthy Jamie Canada trotting around the field this summer. If I do, then I'll feel even better about the Huskies bouncing back from last year's 3-7.
7. Bonita -- Coach Podley's near exit highlighted the spring. With one of the top staff's still in place, the Bearcats should be able to cultivate all that young talent. Here's a team that can really use all the reps it can get this spring.
8. Damien -- I'm hearing whispers about a WR/DB named Josh Savage. He could be one of the best around and we all know Damien could really use some skill upgrades and more overall speed. Hoping Coach Gano doesn't keep such a low profile as last summer.
9. Glendora -- New head coach Todd Quinsey's style of offense really fits the strength of what's returning. The RB combo of Victoria and Holmes should pile up the numbers, but the summer will be all about finding a QB to manage the show.
10. Diamond Bar -- I will truly look like an ass if the Brahmas don't live up to this billing this season. But, I love the skill talent that's back combined with a Hacienda League that from top to bottom won't be as strong as last year ... especially in the trenches.
A big hit: The West Covina-Bonita championship highlights that closed the 2010 season has over 3,000 views. The Inland Insider, AKA, Tom Kiss, has a new camera and is ready for 2011.
"I'm not staying in Vegas with 25 high school kids; you're out of your mind. We stop off at state line, take them to a buffet and go home. We knock it out in one day." -- Arroyo football coach Jim Singiser on the quick turnaround.
By Aram Tolegian, Staff Writer
Winning the Bobby Hauck Passing Jamboree at UNLV last year sent the Arroyo High School football team on its way to a 9-2 season. The Knights will be back in Las Vegas this weekend hoping to parlay another big performance in the offseason's first passing tournament into another strong regular season. Arroyo beat Foothill of Nevada last June to win the passing tournament, which featured a total of 18 teams. This year, the field has swelled to 20, with teams from California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Colorado participating. (to continue click thread)
By Aram Tolegian
Charter Oak's coaching staff will host a youth football coaches clinic Saturday at Royal Oak Middle School for coaches who need to get certified. Registration is 8-9 a.m. The annual Charter Oak Football Golf Tournament will be held June 13 at Glendora Country Club. Check-in is 8:30-9 a.m. Visit cocharger football.com for more information, or call 626-915-5841, ext. 529. Walk-ups and singles are welcome. Several NFL players and community leaders will be playing.
Also, former Charter Oak standout Jason David will host his youth football camp June25 at Charter Oak from 9a.m. to 3 p.m. Charter Oak's varsity coaching staff and football team will host a youth camp July 23 at Charter Oak High. There will be two sessions: 9 a.m. to noon for kids ages 6-10, and 1 to 4 p.m. for kids ages 11-14.
The cost is $20 and includes T-shirt, lunch and certificate. Signups can be done at cochargerfootball.com.
Below: The warm and fuzzy Charter Oak coaching staff ...
Hacienda League
Baseball
Most Valuable Player: Justin Garza, Pitcher, Bonita, Jr.
First Team
Pitchers: Kenny Mathews, Diamond Bar, Sr., Henry Omana, Diamond Bar, Jr., Kyle Peck, Los Altos, Sr., Jacob Chonsky, Walnut, Jr.
Infielders: Robert Mier, Bonita, Sr., Justin Row, Bonita, So., Rouric Bridgewater, Diamond Ranch, Sr., Gio Morales, Los Altos, Jr..
Outfielders: Matt Gelalich, Bonita, Sr., K.C. Huth, Bonita, Sr., Josh Viloria, Diamond Bar, Sr., Will Walters, Walnut, Sr.
Catcher: Dylan Goodwin, Diamond Ranch, Jr.
Utility: Mark Lindsay, Bonita, Sr.
Above: Courtney Gano, center, celebrating with teammates.
Softball
Most Valuable Players: Courtney Gano, Bonita, Sr., Stephany La Rosa, Diamond Bar, Sr.
First Team: Bree Sandoval, Bonita, Sr., Aninssa Sanchez, Bonita, Fr., Jazzlyn Costa, Bonita, So., Liz Rubalcava, Diamond Bar, Jr., Brianna Gonzalez, Diamond Bar, So, Alyssa Villapando, Los Altos, Jr., Mariah Midyette, Los Altos, Jr., Lexi Garcia, Los Altos, Jr., Mercedez Cundiff, Rowland, Sr., Kaylea Snaer, Rowland, So., Justine Chavira, Walnut, Sr., Taylor Castro, West Covina, Jr., Dakota Monarrez, West Covina, Sr., Alex Blanco, West Covina, Jr.
Above: Diamond Bar's Stephany La Rosa celebrates after game-winning homer lifted Brahmas to 1-0 win over West Covina and share of the Hacienda League title.
Sierra League
Baseball
Most Valuable Player: Joseph Keller, Chino Hills, Jr.
First Team: Keith Cooper, Ayala, Sr., Kory Brown, Charter Oak, Fr., Oscar Montenegro, Charter Oak, Jr. Nathanial Acosta, Sr., Chino Hills; Chris Kriarte, Chino Hills, Jr., Cameron Pongs, Chino Hills, Sr., Kevin Sprague, Chino Hills, Sr., Antonio Gonzales, Damien, Sr., Griffin Lord, Damien, Sr., Adrian DeHorta, South Hills, So., Ty France, South Hills, Jr., Dominique Martinez, South Hills, Sr., Jeff Moran, South Hills, Sr., CJ Saylor, South Hills, Jr.
Above: Chino Hills MVP Joseph Keller celebrating after a home run.
Softball
Most Valuable Player: Nikki Girard, Chino Hills, Jr.
First Team: Brianna Celaya, Ayala, Jr., Stevie Knapp, Ayala, jr., Sarah Moore, Ayala, Jr., Jennifer Gonzalez, Charter Oak, Sr., Nicki Sprague, Charter Oak, So., Garie Blando, Chino Hills, Jr., Paige Gumz, Chino Hills, Jr., Nikki Innamorato, Chino Hills, Jr., Patricia Parks, Chino Hills, Fr., Faith Song, Claremont, Sr., Brandi Harkness, St. Lucy's, Jr., Danielle O'Toole, St. Lucy's, Jr., Laura Swan, St. Lucy's, Jr., Sam Nieves, South Hills, Sr., Lexi Robles, South Hills, So., Britney Rodriguez, South Hills, Jr., Kristen Stewart, South Hills, Jr.
Above: Chino Hills' NIkki Girard gets the force in playoff win over North Torrance.
San Dimas' Jacob Ehret got a great graduation present, signing with UCLA baseball after the Bruins lost more players than expected to the Major League Baseball draft. The right-hander was 4-1 with a 2.72 ERA, and hit .360 with 22 RBIs and 26 runs scored for the Valle Vista League champions.
For those who don't mind taking a break from preps, spend eight minutes during your break, lunch or whenever and check this out, an incredible story of perseverance on Korea's version of American Idol...
Baseball
MVP: Matt Lee, San Dimas, Sr.
First Team
Pitchers: Jason Martinez, Covina, Sr., Steven Baltierra, Wilson, Sr., Eddie Gutierrez, Baldwin Park, Jr.
Infielders
Andrew Carillo, Covina, Jr., Matt Munoz, San Dimas, Sr., Brandon Yepiz, San Dimas, Sr., Fernando Gonzalez, Baldwin Park, Sr.
Outfielders
Albert Lemus, Nogales, Jr., Bobby Fraijo, San Dimas, Sr., Vinny Venegas, Covina, Jr.
Catcher
Nick Hynes, Covina, Jr.
Ryan Dominguez, Baldwin Park, Sr.
Utility
Rames Nava, Covina, Sr., Jake Ehret, San Dimas, Sr.
Softball
MVP: Courtney Hine, San Dimas, Sr.
First Team
Pitchers
Ana Mejia, Northview, Fr.
Elizabeth Celaya, San Dimas, So.
Anita Llevanos, Wilson, Jr.
Infielders
Sarina Jaramillo, Northview, So.
Jazmin Chavez, Northview, Sr.
Molly Ross, Covina, Jr.
Miah Fernandez, Pomona, So.
Aleena Avalos, San Dimas, Sr.
Sarah Moore, San Dimas, Sr.
Outfielders
Mercedes Menchaca, Northview, Sr.
Candice Orozco, Covina, Jr.
Blanca Lopez, Baldwin Park, Sr.
Catcher
Janell Wheaton, San Dimas, Fr.
Utility
Erinn Jaramillo, Northview, So.
For second team, click thread ..
Del Rey League
Baseball
Most Valuable Player: Rio Ruiz, Bishop Amat, Jr.
Most Valuable Pitcher: Bowdien Derby, La Salle, Jr.
First Team
Bishop Amat
Adam Alcantara, OF, So.
Jay Anderson, OF, Sr.
David Berg, P, Sr.
Rio Ruiz, Inf, Jr.
Ryan Serrato, Inf, Sr.
Daniel Zamora, P, Jr.
Bernardo Zavala, C, Sr.
Bishop Montgomery
Andy Burschinger, Inf/P, Jr.
Alex DiGiris, OF/P, Jr.
La Salle
John Auer, Inf, Sr.
Bowdien Derby, P/SS, Jr.
Chris Williams, Inf, Jr.
St. Paul
AJ Gonzalez, P/OF, Sr.
Anthony Ybarra, C, Sr.
Jorge Zepeda, P/Inf, Jr.
Softball
Most Valuable Player: Cassie Padilla, Bishop Amat, Jr.
Most Valuable Pitcher: Maxine Rodriguez, St. Joseph, So.
First Team
Bishop Amat
Jacki Carlin, C, Sr.
Alma Cortez, OF, Sr.
Alexis Gonzalez, Inf., So.
Cassie Padilla, Inf, Jr.
Natalie Sanchez, P, Sr.
Victoria Saucedo, Inf, So.
La Salle
Sterling Shuster, Inf, So.
St. Joseph
Katie Gripp, Inf, Sr.
Amanda Lara, Inf, So.
Allyson Painter, Inf, Fr.
Maxine Rodriguez, P, So.
St. Paul
Chanele Dresser, OF, Sr., Jasmin Dresser, OF, Jr., Krystal Gutierrez, Inf, Fr., Erica Lespron, Of, Sr.
Bishop Amat Girls Basketball Camp
Bishop Amat High School girls basketball coach Richard Wiard is holding his annual Lady Hoopster basketball camp June 20-23 from 1:30-5p.m. daily at Amat. The camp is open to girls entering the fifth through ninth grades. Attendees will receive instruction in basketball fundamentals, a camp T-shirt and the chance to win daily prizes. The cost of the camp is $80. For more information contact Wiard at
Damien lineman camp
The Damien High football team is hosting the All-Pro lineman camp on June 25 at 9 a.m. at Damien. The camp, limited to the first 200 players who sign up, is designed to instruct linemen in pass protection, run blocking, pulling, trapping, downfield blocking and other techniques. The camp also will discuss the importance of nutrition and strength training. The camp includes a lunch and T-shirt and is open to high-school aged players. The cost is $120 per person or $100 per person with a group of five or more. For more information call (714) 348-1423.
Just when you thought you've heard it all, hear this: There have been close to 4,000 comments made on a Yahoo.com story about the decision to disqualify Los Angeles Loyola pole vaulter Evan Barr last weekend at the state track and field championships when he uttered a profanity at the conclusion of a jump. That DQ cost the Cubs a state title. "You can't be profane in a competitive area," California state track and field rules interpreter Hal Harkness told the Times' Eric Sondheimer. "He made an unfortunate lapse in judgment." I know what you're all going to say, rules are rules, right? I don't know if this is justified and without hearing what was said and how he said it, it's tough to know whether the officials made the right call, but why are the penalties always so severe? Ever heard of a verbal warning?
Funeral services for Austin Lacy, a senior at Pasadena High School and standout football player who also played for Bishop Amat his junior year, are scheduled for Saturday. Lacy died in a Maryland medical facility Friday from mesothelioma and complications caused by the cancer.
Funeral services will start at 10 a.m. at Metropolitan Baptist Church, 2283 Fair Oaks Avenue, Altadena. After the service, Lacy will be interred across the street at Mountain View Cemetery, 2400 Fair Oaks Ave. A gathering of friends and family will follow the interment at the Boys and Girls Club of Pasadena, 2020 North Fair Oaks Avenue.
Right: Cal State Fullerton's Tyler Pill during his days with Covina High...
By Miguel A. Melendez, Staff Writer
A childhood dream became a reality for former Cal State Fullerton teammates Noe Ramirez (Alhambra High) and Tyler Pill (Covina High) when they were selected Tuesday in day two of the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft.
Pill, a right-handed pitcher who also batted No. 3 in the Titans' lineup, was taken in the fourth round (132nd overall) by the New York Mets. He was ranked 59th in Baseball America's top 100 college draft prospects list and was a semifinalist for the Dick Howser Award as the nation's top player. He went 6-1 with a 2.08 ERA and led the Titans with a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 99-19.
Glendora's big swinging lefty John Alexander was the first area high school player taken, selected in the eighth round by the Tampa Bay Del Rays.
Diamond Bar's Kenny Mathews, who is expected to compete at Cal State Fullerton, was selected in the 12th round by the New York Mets and Bonita 6-foot-8 lefty Adam McCreery, who battled back from injury, was taken in the 14th round by the Minnesota Twins. Bishop Amat's Wallace Gonzalez was taken in the 29th round by the Houston Astros.
By John Honell, Correspondent
Tuesday's San Gabriel Valley Senior All-Star game would have been perfect for the late Ed Bruyninckx, who enjoyed wide-open games in which everyone got a chance to play and play well. The North scored in every inning but one en route to a 21-8 win over the South.
The game was played to honor the Wilson High School coach who died suddenly last summer. Bruyninckx's 3-year old grandson Brody Schatzman, accompanied by Bruyninckx's widow, Joyce, threw out the first pitch. "He would have been thrilled and excited to have this game dedicated to him," Joyce said, "but he wouldn't have liked all the attention. He didn't like drawing attention to himself."
By Steve Ramirez
Bishop Amat's Rio Ruiz and South Hills' C.J. Saylor, two of the area's top baseball players, have been selected to compete in the AFLAC All-American Classic. The announcement was made Monday at Petco Park in San Diego before the Padres-Rockies game. The All-Star game is scheduled for later this summer in San Diego.
Ruiz helped Bishop Amat win the school's eighth CIF-Southern Section title. He hit a key double in a 5-4 victory over Torrance in last Tuesday's semifinals and a home run in the Lancers' 7-0 victory over Palm Desert in the championship game on Friday.
Saylor has been a key cog for South Hills the past two years and helped the Huskies earn a share of the Sierra League title this past season.
Ruiz and Saylor are familiar with each other, having played on youth ball teams since they were 3 years old. They also are members of the San Gabriel Arsenal travel ball team.
Tyler France, Saylor's teammate at South Hills, is expected to be added to the team later this month.
More highlights from Amat-Palm Desert Division 4 championship, video quality is very good.
By Steve Ramirez, Staff Writer
Now that Covina High School's Remontay McClain put his name in the California track and field history books, what does he do for an encore? He says hello to New York.
McClain, who on Saturday became just the third competitor to win the 100 and 200 meters at the CIF State championships in back-to-back years, will take part in the adidas Grand Prix at Icahn Stadium in New York City.
Continue reading Covina's McClain headed to the Big Apple.
The San Gabriel Valley senior all-star softball game is set for Tuesday at Mt. San Antonio College. Bishop Amat's Jesse Mendez will coach the South, and Monrovia's Randy Medina and Bonita's Ken Carlson will coach the North. The game will start at 6:30 p.m., and parking is $2. It's still undecided whether there will be a fee for admission. The game will honor late Wilson softball and basketball coach Ed Bruyninckx, who passed away last year. Bruyninckx's daughter, Lindsay Schatzman, who replaced Bruyninckx as Wilson's softball coach, will coach the top of the first inning at first base in honor of her dad. Bruyninckx's 3-year-old grandson will throw out the first pitch, accompanied by Bruyninckx's widow, Joyce.
North coach: Randy Medina (Monrovia) and Ken Carlson (Bonita)
North Roster
Arroyo-Paige Medina
Azusa-Veronica Ramirez
Bonita-Courtney Gano, Breanna Sandoval, Kate O'Malley
Charter Oak-Cassie Andrews, Jennifer Gonzales
Duarte-Auryanna Erhardt, Vanessa Medrano
Gabrielino-Breanna Delgadillo
Glendora-Caryle Argyle, Audrie Becerra
La Canada-Lauren O'Leary, Anna Edwards
Monrovia, Kelly Williams, Schae Simpson
Northview-Mercedes Menchaca, Jazmin Chavez
San Dimas-Aleena Avalos, Sara Moore, Courtney Hine
Sierra Vista-Monica Gomez
Temple City-Jessica Loicano
South coach: Jesse Mendez (Bishop Amat)
South Roster
Bishop Amat-Natalie Sanchez, Jackie Carlin, Alma Cortez, Katie Cunningham
Diamond Bar-Stephany La Rosa
Los Altos-Julia Mendoza
Mark Keppel-Cecily Ramirez
Rowland-Mercedes Cundiff
Montebello-Jacquelin Lopez
Nogales-Deanna Alfaro
Rosemead-Lily Marie Jimenez
Schurr-Megan Coronado
South El Monte-Salina Gonzales
South Hills-Samantha Nieves, Vanessa Molina, Keira Portell
Walnut-Justine Chavira
West Covina-Alyssa Gutierrez, Dakota Monarrez
Wilson-Amanda Salazar
The Monday after the baseball, softball and track championships begins the final leg of the award season, all-area, all-league and all-CIF announcements follow later this month, which also includes the special award we created two years ago, the boys and girls athlete of the year, which celebrates the multi-sport athlete. Last year South Hills' Dekota Behr and Melinda Gomez won, any thoughts on who that should be this year?
San Gabriel Valley all-star photo gallery
By Nathan Cambridge
Sunday's 16th annual San Gabriel Valley All-Star baseball game at Moor Field featured stellar defense, but superior pitching and hitting by the Red team led to a 3-1 victory. Bonita's Robert Mier, playing for the Red team, won the game's Most Valuable Hitter Award. The second baseman, who will play at Mt. SAC next year, hit a run-scoring double in the seventh inning to put his team ahead for good, 2-1. "It's neat," Mier said. "You get to play with guys you played against all year. It's different but it is still competitive baseball. I was just happy to help and contribute to my team's win."
UC Irvine players celebrate at rallying for a 4-3 victory over host UCLA in the NCAA Division I regionals. The Anteaters advanced to face No. 1 Virginia in next weekend's Super Regionals.
Sunday was a big day for former local baseball players Jordan Leyland, of San Dimas, and Tommy Reyes, of Bishop Amat. Both helped UC Irvine rally for a 4-3 victory over UCLA to advance to next weekend's NCAA Division I Super Regionals, facing No. 1 national seed Virginia.
Leyland and Reyes went 2 for 4, with Leyland knocking in the tying run in the bottom of the ninth with double. UCI rallied to score two runs in its last at-bat to win 4-3. Reyes had an infield single in the rally.
UCLA's Jeff Gelalich, of Bonita, went 1 for 5 with a home run and two RBIs.
It was also a good day for former Glendora standout Adam Plutko, who gave up just one hit in 7 2/3 innings as UCLA advanced to face the Anteaters with a 4-1 victory over San Francisco earlier in the day.
The annual San Gabriel Valley senior all-star baseball game is today at Alhambra's Moor Field, located a block and half from Alhambra High School. The game is scheduled to start at 2 p.m., and will honor two former coaches, Edgewood's Karl Major, who coached arguably the greatest back-to-back CIF champions in area history, the 1977 and 78 Trojans, and El Monte's Nick Montero, whose long tenure included 23 years with the Lions before retiring from teaching in 2000.
All-Star Preview: Fifty-two Valley seniors will wear their high school uniforms for the last time in today's 16th annual San Gabriel Valley All-Star Game at Alhambra's Moor Field.
The gates open at 11:30 a.m. and the game is scheduled for a 2 p.m. start. Each team (blue and red) will have 26 players. The West Valley blue team will be coached by Pasadena Poly's Wayne Ellis and La Salle's Harry Agajanian. The West Valley Red team will be coached by Sierra Vista's Brett Stevens and Temple City's Barry Bacon.
Red Team
Coaches: Brett Stevens (Head) Sierra Vista, Barry Bacon (Assistant) Temple City
Players, Position, High School
Rouric Bridgewater, 3B Diamond Ranch
Mark Chen, C San Marino
Jacob Ehret, P San Dimas
Gabriel Esocobar, 1B Schurr
Daniel, FarFan, P El Monte
Matt Gelich, OF Bonita
Fernando Gonzalez, SS Baldwin Park
Alex Guerrero, P Montebello
Caleb Halverson, OF Temple City
Andres Hernadez, OF Sierra Vista
K.C. Huth, OF Bonita
Jimmy Jacobo, 1B La Puente
Julian Jarrard, SS Temple City
George Johnson, OF West Covina
Robert, Lain, 3B Pasadena
Matt Lee, P San Dimas
Kevin Lengvel, P Diamond Ranch
Chris Marentes, C Gladstone
Kenny Mathews, P Diamond Bar
Robert Mier, 2B Bonita
Anthony MIllan, P Montebello
Matt Munoz, SS San Dimas
Elias Novello, P Sierra Vista
Nathaniel Sarkar, 1B Gabrielino
Jeff Villalobos, OF Rowland
Will Walters, P Walnut
Blue Team
Coaches: Wayne Ellis (Head) Pasadena Poly, Harry Agajanian (Assistant) La Salle
Players, Position, High School
Nick Bueno, INF Monrovia
Adrian Velasco, C Monrovia
Wallace Gonzalez, OF Bishop Amat
Ryan Serrato, 1B Bishop Amat
Bernardo Zavala, C Bishop Amat
Hunter Merryman, 1B Pasadena Poly
Matt Saeta, C Pasadena Poly
Jordan Kutzer, P Pasadena Poly
John Auer, INF La Salle
Gary Goebel, P La Salle
Steve Petrovich, OF La Salle
Nick Cooksey, INF Glendora
Brennan Salgado, C Glendora
John Alexander, OF/1B Glendora
Tyler Dominguez, INF Arcadia
K.J. Edson, P Arcadia
Haram Park, INF/OF Arcadia
Mark Roche, P Arroyo
Roman Davalos, P Arroyo
Dom Martinez, OF South Hills
Richie Rollice, OF South Hills
Frankie Wright, P/INF Alhambra
Antonio Gonzalez, P Damien
Tony Veiller, P South Pasadena
Kyle Peck, P Los Altos
Steven Baltiera, P Wilson
Bishop Amat championship photo gallery.
By Fred J. Robledo, Staff Writer
When Bishop Amat High School's baseball team reaches CIF-Southern Section championship games, it almost always closes the deal, even when that includes taking down the defending champion and top seed and avenging a season-opening loss with a season-ending masterpiece.
Bishop Amat won its eighth divisional title in nine finals appearances, knocking off top-seed Palm Desert 7-0 in the Division 4 championship at Dodger Stadium on Friday, giving the Lancers their fifth championship since 2001, and first since 2008. (To continue, click thread)
L.A. Times' Eric Sondheimer reflects on Amat's big win: It's astounding that people have paid me for some 35 years to watch and report on high school sports. It's more privilege than job because there's nothing like chronicling the stories and accomplishments of teenage athletes in Southern California, where future college and professional icons are raised and tutored.........It was Bishop Amat's eighth section title and ended any debate about who's the best team in Southern California for 2011.
Video highlights and interviews with the Inland Insider...
By Steve Ramirez
IRVINE -- South Hills High School used its offense and defense to advance to the CIF-Southern Section softball championships for the second consecutive season.
It was the lack of each which did the Huskies in Friday.
Kelly Spear and Ava Jensen each hit home runs and Kiana Quolas was solid in the circle and top-seeded Oaks Christian took advantage of six South Hills errors to score a 10-1 victory in the Division 3 title game at Deanna Manning Stadium.
The Lions, getting four RBIs from Spear and two from Jensen, finished 30-5. It was also Oaks Christian's third win over a team from the Sierra League after earlier in the playoffs beating St. Lucy's and Chino Hills.
South Hills, in the championship game for the second consecutive
season, finished 21-8. The Huskies lost 4-0 to Whittier Christian in
2010.
"That's what it is," said South Hills coach Scott Fisch, referring to the Huskies six errors. "We had the game Lakeside (in the quarterfinals) had, the game Bishop Amat had (in the semifinals). We had that game.
"That's what happens when you're in (the championship game). We're fortunate to be here. I'm sure there are a lot of teams who would have wanted to trade places with us. We're disappointed."
Updated:
If you remember, we wrote a story more than a year ago in which doctors diagnosed Lacy with a heart infection and attempted to drain his chest of fluid when his heart stopped. It's devastating news for all that knew him and our thoughts and prayers are with his family. This is an interview I had with Austin last summer, what an incredible young man he was.
For the selected few who get the chance, there's nothing like playing a high school championship game in a major league baseball stadium, and Bishop Amat gets that chance today when it takes on Palm Desert for the CIF-Southern Section Division 4 title at Dodger Stadium.
They key to winning, is putting in perspective and just playing a game of baseball, which sometimes is hard to do when you are in awe of the venue.
In this aspect, I thought I would post a bit of advice for the Amat players, and the softball players from South Hills, who will take on Oaks Christian for the Division 3 title, in a bigger venue then they are used to - Deanna Manning Stadium in Irvine.
This from Wisconsin football coach Bret Bielema, who made these comments prior to his Badgers stepping on to the Arroyo Seco turf for the Rose Bowl Game in January:
"I think they have to not get consumed by the moment. It's so breath-taking to walk into that stadium. Right when we landed (in Southern California), the first thing I did was take them to the stadium so they could see and experience it and see what it is. When you walk in it (for the game), if you let it, it can consume you. I want them to focus on the game."
Heat Sheets: CIF-State Finals Prelim heat sheets
LIVE RESULTS: Results of the state meet posted immediately on state webpage, click here.
By Aram Tolegian, Staff Writer
When Bishop Amat High School's baseball program graduated the pitching duo of Paul Paez and Brandon McNitt from last year's team, there were quite a few fans who figured the Lancers might be in big trouble heading into this season. Most thought the Lancers would have to score a load of runs every time out to have a chance to win. The term Johnny Wholestaff was even bandied about in reference to how Amat would make up for the fact that it didn't have the one or two aces that fans had grown used to over the years.
So much for that.
Thanks to starting pitcher Daniel Zamora and the cast of other arms on head coach Andy Nieto's staff, the Lancers are on the verge of completing one of the best seasons in school history Friday against Palm Desert at Dodger Stadium in the CIF-Southern Section Division 4 championship game.
By Steve Ramirez
Hall of Fame quarterback Bart Starr once said that the one thing that separates the good player from the champion is what that individual does at the brink of elimination. South Hills High School softball player Sydney La Follette fits the "champion" definition perfectly. She's played her best during the CIF-Southern Section playoffs, and is a big reason why the Huskies will play for the Division 3 title Friday when they take on top seed Oaks Christian at 7:30 p.m. at Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park in Irvine.
District Vice President John Tran (far left) urging board to reinstate Mike Gorball
PHOTO GALLERY of Wednesday's meeting
By Aram Tolegian
Staff Writer
SOUTH EL MONTE -- The community spoke and the El Monte Union High School District listened.
After an outpouring of support from current and former players, and area coaches, at Wednesday's school board meeting, Arroyo High School girls basketball coach Mike Gorball has been reinstated by the district effective immediately.
Gorball was fired last week by first-year Arroyo principal Oscar Cisneros after 21 seasons. Gorball's teams have won eight league championships, finished second nine times and made the playoffs in 20 of his 21 seasons.
"I'll be happy to go to practice tomorrow and I think they (the players) will be, too," said Gorball, who did not attend Wednesday's meeting. "I know what the kids on my team have done to contact all my coaching friends and former players and it's unbelievable that they can drum up that kind of support in such a short amount of time.
"I cannot even express (how moved I am). I told them I will never be able to thank them enough."
The public comments portion of Wednesday's meeting was overrun with Gorball supporters, which included Bishop Amat girls basketball coach Richard Wiard and South El Monte girls basketball and softball coach Dean Bunting.
With emotions ranging from tears to anger, speaker after speaker questioned Cisneros' decision and the impact it will have on the Arroyo athletics program where Gorball is also an assistant football coach and supports several other sports.
After the comments portion of the meeting expired, district Vice President John Tran moved to immediately reinstate Gorball, which was met with loud applause from the packed chamber.
"I think the decision made to let Coach Gorball go was probably not the right move," Tran said. "Any decision that will be made on Coach Gorball in the future will come back to the board. As of right now, the board couldn't act on this because it wasn't on the agenda. But under educational code we were able to give direction to the superintendent (Nick Salerno) and it was a unanimous decision to reinstate Coach Gorball."
Cisneros declined to comment on why he fired Gorball, but many people attending the meeting believed it was because Cisneros wanted to hire a certified teacher for the position. Gorball works at the high school as a campus security officer.
"I made my decision tonight based on the fact that I don't think he (Gorball) got a fair shake," board member Carlos G. Salcedo said. "In certain circumstances it is beneficial to have the coaches be teachers because those teachers are there full time and they do get to know the students on a deeper level.
"However, I think there are some exceptions. For example, our coach in this instance, Gorball, he's already here as a campus supervisor. In his role, he does have the opportunity to get to know these kids."
Cisneros attended Thursday's meeting and showed little emotion as students, parents and community members publicly questioned his decision and urged board members to change it.
"It's not personal," Cisneros said during a break in the meeting. "The board decides the direction it wants to take and that's the direction it wants to take."
No successor for Gorball had been named prior to Wednesday's meeting. The Knights begin their summer tournament schedule on Friday. But with Gorball back at the helm, fears by parents about a team playing games with no coach were calmed, although Cisneros said the team would have a had a replacement in time for Friday's game.
"I don't think the timing was great given that they have a tournament coming up," Tran said. "I just wanted to make sure we had immediate action to reinstate to give him time to prepare his team for the upcoming tournaments."
Arroyo principal Oscar Cisneros (right) looks on during Wednesday's meeting
The CIF-Southern Section office released the championship game schedule for softball this morning, and South Hills High School, which routed Bishop Amat 16-1 in the semifinals, will play top seed Oaks Christian at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at Deanna Manning Stadium in Irvine.
The Huskies are in the championship game for the second consecutive year, losing to Whittier Christian in 2010.
In Baseball, Bishop Amat, seeking its third Division 4 title, faces top seed Palm Desert Friday at 4:30 at Dodger Stadium. The Aztecs, led by Ryan Garvey, son of former Dodger Steve Garvey, won the division last season.
Links
Tribune Prep Sports
Miguel Melendez's prep blog
In the Huddle
ESPN
OC Varsity
San Bernardino Sun Preps
LA times Varsity Blog
Daily Bulletin Preps
Whittier Daily News Preps
LA Daily News Preps
Long Beach Press Telegram Preps
Daily Breeze Preps
Dyestat Track and Cross Country
MaxPreps
Rivals.Com
College Level Athletes
Miguel Melendez's prep blog
In the Huddle
ESPN
OC Varsity
San Bernardino Sun Preps
LA times Varsity Blog
Daily Bulletin Preps
Whittier Daily News Preps
LA Daily News Preps
Long Beach Press Telegram Preps
Daily Breeze Preps
Dyestat Track and Cross Country
MaxPreps
Rivals.Com
College Level Athletes
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