By Aram Tolegian
The second North/South Southern California All-Star Game for high school football seniors promises to be a lot better than the first, if early rosters are any indicator.
The game, run by area football guru Leon Ward, is an attempt to bring back the old Hall of Fame All-Star Game, which has now morphed into the SGV All-Star Game and is now played in January instead late spring or summer.
But instead of dividing the boundaries of the talent pool by taking players from east and west of the 605 Freeway, the North/South game uses the 10 Freeway and players are likely to come from as far east as Chino and as far west as Lincoln High in Los Angeles. But mostly, it’s a San Gabriel Valley talent pool.
The game will be played on May 13 at Covina District Stadium. Kickoff is 7 p.m.
Although last year’s game could be characterized, at best, as a defensive slugfest, this year’s has more potential for fireworks given the collection of offensive talent, especially on the North roster. The North is coached by Northview’s Marcel Perez.

The biggest name in the game is likely to be Nebraska-bound defensive back Elijah Blades of Muir. He also plays wide receiver and returns kicks, but it’s uncertain what roles Perez will use him in.

The North also features Monrovia quarterback Richie Schroeder, Northview running back Kevin Thomas and receivers Raeshawn Roland (Arcadia) and Elijah Hall (Monrovia). It’s a good thing the North has an abundance of skill talent because South coach Adrian Medrano of El Rancho has loaded his team with defense.

The Los Altos duo of defensive end Andrew Manuele and linebacker Nick Gonzalez lead the way. Medrano has also been impressed by Norwalk defensive end Jordan Thomas. The South held its first practice last Sunday and plans to go three more times this week.

Balancing time between handling his own team during spring practice and coaching the all-stars is something that Medrano said is taxing but worth it.

“We’re practicing three days this week and it’s all at night,” Medrano said. “Obviously, it’s to give guys time to get there, but as far as we’re concerned, it makes for a long day for the coaches.

“Overall, it’s a positive thing. Kids get to play in another game, and as a coach, you get to be around kids who are all really well mannered because they’re nominated by their coaches because their coaches feel they’re good citizens and good people and good football players as well.”