The Catholic Athletic Association voted to approve a releaguing proposal for all sports except football that was submitted by Bishop Amat, Bishop Montgomery, Cantwell Sacred Heart, Cathedral, Don Bosco Tech, La
Salle, Mary Star of the Sea, Serra, St. Bernard, Saint Joseph, St. Monica, and St. Paul. Barring lawsuits, the new league approved by the CAA will begin in the 2014-15 cycle. I’m posting only the league that directly affects the San Gabriel Valley area, with Damien, Bishop Amat, St. Lucy’s, La Salle, St. Paul and Pomona Catholic all grouped in the 16-team Co-Ed Association league. The CAA will next vote on a football only proposal.

CO-ED ASSOCIATION A (16 SCHOOLS): Bishop Amat, Bishop Montgomery, Cantwell-Sacred Heart, Cathedral, Damien, Bosco Tech, La Salle, Mary Star of the Sea, Pomona Catholic, Serra, St. Bernard, St. Bonaventure, St. Joseph, St. Lucy’s, St. Monica, St. Paul.

How it works: With 16 teams in the association, it is now up to the association to group teams into League A and League B by sports, taking into consideration geographic proximity and competitive equity. Chances are, Damien/St. Lucy’s, Bishop Amat, Bosco Tech/Pomona Catholic, St. Paul, Cantwell Sacred Heart, La Salle, Cathedral/St. Joseph and Mary Star will be grouped together in most sports because of geography.

TRIBUNE/STAR-NEWS ALL-STAR CLASSIC
Where: Damien High School
When: Friday
Time: Girls game 6 p.m., boys 8 p.m.
By Aram Tolegian, staff writer
It’s been a few years now since Gary Prestesater left the local spotlight.
From legendary athlete at Glendora High School to legendary basketball coach at San Dimas to legendary but brief program re-builder at West Covina, Prestesater has spent his entire life building himself into a local stalwart.
A probably forgotten chapter in the story of Prestesater’s athletic and coaching prowess came in 2006 when he was selected to be the head coach of the Tribune team in that spring’s Tribune/Star-News All-Star Classic.
I say selected because to this day I’m not sure Prestesater ever officially accepted the assignment.
In fact, the phone call to get him to coach the game went something like this.

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These are three of the proposals on the table for the May 13 vote that will decide Mt. SAC area league realignment for the 2014-15 season. Which one do you think is best?

PROPOSAL 1:
Baseline: Etiwanda, Los Osos, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, Chino Hills
Sierra: Ayala, Claremont, Glendora, Chino, Bonita, Diamond Bar
Hacienda: Los Altos, Diamond Ranch, Walnut, West Covina, South Hills, Charter Oak
Mt. Baldy: Chaffey, Colony, Don LUgo, Montclair, Ontario, Alta Loma
Valle Vista: Covina, Nogales, Northview, San Dimas, Wilson, Rowland
Montview: Duarte, Gladstone, Azusa, La Puente, Baldwin Park, Sierra Vista
Unnamed League: Garey, Pomona, Ganesha, Edgewood, Bassett, Workman

PROPOSAL 2
Baseline: Ayala, Etiwanda, Upland, Los Osos, Rancho Cucamonga
Sierra: Colony, Bonita, Chino Hills, Claremont, Chino, Glendora
Hacienda: Charter Oak, Diamond Bar, South Hills, Los Altos, Rowland, Walnut, West Covina
Mt. Baldy: Chaffey Diamond Ranch, Ontario, Don Lugo, Alta Loma, Montclair
Valle Vista: Baldwin Park, Covina, Northview, Wilson, Nogales, San Dimas
Montview: Azusa, La Puente, Duarte, Sierra Vista, Gladstone
New unnamed league: Garey, Pomona, Bassett, Workman, Edgewood, Ganesha

PROPOSAL 3
Baseline: Chino Hills, Bonita, Etiwanda, Los Osos, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland
Sierra: Ayala, Colony, Diamond Bar, Claremont, Chino, Glendora
Hacienda: Charter Oak, West Covina, Diamond Ranch, Los Altos, South Hills, Walnut
Mt. Baldy: Chaffey, Alta Loma, Ontario, Don Lugo, Montclair
Valle Vista: Wilson, Covina, Nogales, Northview, Rowland, San Dimas
Montview: Azusa, Baldwin Park, Duarte, Sierra Vista, Gladstone, La Puente
New unnamed league: Edgewood, Garey, Pomona, Bassett, Ganesha, Workman

Northview, Baldwin Park photo gallery
By Fred Robledo, staff writer
Northview can breathe a sigh of relief after overcoming a rocky start to defeat Baldwin Park and USC-bound lefty Bernardo Flores, 8-2, to remain in a first-place tie in the wild Valle Vista League title chase with San Dimas, though Baldwin Park and Nogales aren’t far back.
Baldwin Park jumped on top of Northview starter Niko Castaneda with four hits to take a 2-0 lead in the first inning, but Castaneda settled down and the Vikings chipped away, scoring three runs in the fourth to take a 4-2 lead, and adding a couple more runs in the fifth and sixth innings to improve to 18-4 and 6-1.
The Vikings remained in a tie for first with San Dimas (17-6, 6-1), a 10-2 winner over Covina.
“We were just telling the kids it wasn’t the ideal start, being at home and being down 2-0, but Nico did a great job bouncing back,” Vikings coach Darren Murphy said.
Castaneda earned the victory with help from DJ Howard, who took over in the sixth after the Braves loaded the bases with one out. Northview led 6-2 at the time, but Howard got out of it, then closed the seventh to earn the save.
Baldwin Park, which dropped to 15-5 and 6-3, could have moved even with Northview in the loss column with a victory. The two teams meet again on Thursday at Baldwin Park.

Tuesday’s Baseball Results
Valle Vista League
Northview 8, Baldwin Park 2
San Dimas 10, Covina 10
Sierra League
South Hills 11, Damien 6
Ayala 16, Charter Oak 7
Del Rey League
Bishop Amat 7, La Salle 3

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ALL-AREA WRESTLING TEAM PHOTO GALLERY
ALL-AREA WRESTLING TEAM ONLINE

Wrestler of the Year: BRYAN SALINAS, Northview, Junior
Northview High School’s Bryan Salinas made the most out of a little this season.
The junior, who dispite missing most of the regular season to a knee injury, still managed to pull off a dominating season that included CIF-Southern Section and Masters titles and a top eight finish at the CIF State Wrestling championships.
For his efforts, Salinas is San Gabriel Valley Tribune Wrestler of the Year.
“I did what I could with my knee this year,” Salinas said. “It was hard for me, to miss that much time and get caught up with other people.
“But I’m happy with the way it wound up, to win CIF, win Masters. I was hoping for more at state, but I’m happy I placed.
It was a long road for Salinas, who didn’t compete until finishing second at 170 pounds in January at the 5 Counties Invitational, considered a state meet preview.
He then rolled during the postseason, winning at 170 in the league finals before scoring a CIF-SS Central Division crown and then a Masters title on back-to-back weekends to qualify for the state meet.
The Masters title, which saw him beat Riverside King’s Harlan Kistler, 7-3, was especially rewarding after finishing second the previous season.
“That felt good,” Salinas said. “I felt like where I should be. I felt like I was on pace.”
But it wasn’t to be. He won his first three matches at the state meet in Bakersfield, two by fall, before dropping a 5-2 setback to Jovan Villalobs, of Alisal (Salinas), in the quarterfinals.
Salinas battled his way to the seventh-place match but was forced to default due to re-injurying his knee.
“It wasn’t a very good feeling,” Salinas said. “It was disappointing. I wanted to go more, but my knee wouldn’t let me.
“It was hurting me that whole weekend, the whole season. I did everything possible.”
Now, he’s already looking toward next year, when they goal, as expected is the same.
“I want to go back and hopefully win state,” he said. “Then continue on to nationals.”

Coach of the Year: TIM MCCABE, Charter Oak
McCabe has slowly built a solid program in his four seasons at Charter Oak. He previously coached at Glendora, where his teams had good representation at the CIF-SS individual championships. Charter Oak, after showing steady progress the previous three seasons, were stout in 2013, winning the Sierra League dual title for the first time in his tenure before advancing to the quarterfinals of the Division I dual championships. He produced on CIF-SS champion in Eric Prevost (225) and qualified four competitors to the Masters Meet. Charter Oak finished seventh as a team in the Central Division.

FIRST TEAM
106 – VINCENT PARRA, Northview, Junior
The junior was one of the top competitors at 106 pounds in the CIF-Southern Section, qualifying for CIF State championships after winning a Central Division title and placing third at the Masters Meet. He also won a Valle Vista League title and was second at the 5 Counties Tournament in January.
113 – ERIC OCHOA, Northview, Senior
The senior, son of Northview coach David Ochoa, had his best season, winning a Valle Vista League title and his first section title, taking the 113 championship in the Central Division championships. He was third at CIF-SS Masters to qualify for the state meet, and won a 5 Counties title.
120 – FREDDIE HSIAO, Walnut, Senior
The senior was one of 10 area competitors to win a CIF-Southern Section indiviudual title. He was a surprise winner, taking the 120-pound class at the Central Division championships after yielding just six points en route to his title. He had one win by fall, with two shut outs before beating Northwood’s Kodsart Denaro, 3-2.
126 – KEVIN KELLY, South Hills, Junior
Kelly was the area’s top competitor at 126. He won a Sierra League title and was second at the CIF-Southern Section Central Division championships, losing to Bloomington’s Johnny Foster. He advanced to the quarterfinals at Masters before losing in the consolation fourth round.
132 – THOMAS TELLO, Glendora, Senior
Tello, the top area wrestler at 132, had a solid season, placing at divisionals and Masters to be one of 11 area competitors to advance to the CIF State championships. He was second at the Inland Division Championships and was fourth at Masters. Tello, who went 1-2 at the state meet, was one of two Tartans at Masters.
138 – MICHAEL SILL, Walnut, Senior
Sill, a two-time state qualifier, was at his best late, placing at divisionals, Masters and the state championships, where he was one of two area competitors to finish among the top eight, taking fifth at 138 pounds. He was also third at the CIF-SS Central Division championships and eighth at Masters.
145 – RICKY PADILLA, Northview, Sophomore
Padilla was one of seven Vikings to advance to the CIF State championships. The sophomore won a CIF-Southern Section Central Division title at 145 and was fourth at the CIF-SS Masters Meet. Padilla, ranked in the state top 20 most of the season, also was second at the 5 Counties Invitational in January.
152 – SETH MORALES, Bonia, Junior
Morales was the top competitor at 152 pounds. He won a Hacienda League title before placing third at the CIF-Southern Section Central Division championships. He made the podium after following up a loss in the second round with six consecutive victories. He also was first at the Montclair Tournament.
160 – STEVEN LOPEZ, Northview, Senior
Lopez was the top area competitor at 160. He finished the season at No. 18 in the state after being one of the seven Vikings to qualify for the CIF State championships. He won a Valle Vista League title before winning a Central Division title and eighth at the Masters Meet. He went 2-2 at the state meet.
170 – GARRICK GURNEY, Chino Hills, Senior
Gurney is the top competitor at 170. He was the third Husky to qualify for the CIF State championships in the past two seasons. He won a Sierra League title and was fourth at the CIF-SS Central Division championships. He was fifth at Masters before finishing one round short of placing at the state meet.
182 – NATHAN RODRIGUEZ, Diamond Bar, Senior
Rodriguez is the top competitor at 182. He was one of 10 area athletes to win a CIF-SS division title, placing first at the Central Division championships. He placed seventh at the Masters Meet to become one of 11 area competitors to qualify for the state meet, although he was forced to default.
195 – ERIC PREVOST, Charter Oak, Junior
Prevost was the top competitor at 195. He keyed the Chargers run to their first Sierra League dual championship. Individually, he won a Sierra League title and a CIF-SS Central Division championship. He went 2-2 at the Masters meet. Prevost’s 2013 resume also included a tournament championship at Bob Bellot Invitational at Montclair High School.
225 – KEANDRE JOHNSON, Diamond Bar, Junior
Johnson was the top competitor at 225. He was part of Diamond Bar’s one-two tandem with Nathan Rodriguez. The junior advanced to the semifinals at the CIF-SS Central Division championships before taking third. He was two rounds short of qualifing for the state meet after losing in the second round. He also won a Hacienda League title.
285 – MARCO VALDIVIA, South Hills, Sernior
The top heavyweight in the area. Valdivia was one of 10 area champions at the CIF-SS Central Division finals. He won a Sierra League title before living up to his No. 1 seed by beating Righetti’s Dante Gamble for the Central Division title. He also helped the Huskies advance to the CIF-SS Division I dual championships quarterfinals.

SECOND TEAM
106: Josh Martinez (Rowland), Sr.
113: Jose Lozano (Covina), Sr.
120: John Rivera (Northview), Jr.
126: Joseph Alexander (Charter Oak), Jr.
132: Tony Arellano (Northview), Sr.
138: Daniel Valles (Northview), Sr.
145: Nicolas Viramontes (Bishop Amat), Sr.
152: Matt Chavez
(South Hills), Jr.
160: Greg Lawton (Rowland), Sr.
170: Bradley Ojala
(West Covina, Sr.
182: Josh Ebiner
(Bishop Amat), Sr.
195: Matt Carrillo (Diamond Bar), Sr.
225: James Rivera (Arroyo), Sr.
285: Ryan Padilla (Glendora), Jr.

HONORABLE MENTION
Arroyo: Luis Hernandez (285)
Ayala: Stephen Schapp (195)
Bishop Amat: Carlos Garcia (195)
Charter Oak: Joey Castrorena (132); Diego Cortez (152); David Apodaca (285)
Chino Hills: Nathan Aragon (160)
Damien: Patrick Sanchez (285)
Northview: Anthony Martinez (182)
Rowland: Bruno Flores (126); Mario Lopez (138)
San Dimas: David Gonzalez (106)
South El Monte: Eduardo Yebras (120)
West Covina: Robert Montoya (182)

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ALL-AREA GIRLS WATER POLO PHOTO GALLERY
ALL-AREA GIRLS WATER POLO ONLINE

Player of the Year: STEPHANIE CONTRERAS, Los Altos, Senior
Stephanie Contreras began her girls water polo career as a virtual unknown. She leaves it as the most-prolic scorer in the CIF-Southern Section.
The senior scored 141 goals this season to finish with a CIF-SS record of 639 goals for a career en route to leading the Conquerors to the division semifinals for the second time in four seasons.
For her efforts, Contreras is 2013 San Gabriel Valley Tribune Girls Water Polo Player of the Year.
“It was a pretty good season,” said Contreras, whose team lost to eventual champion Troy in the Divison 4 semfinals. “It was a sad moment losing (to Troy). It was a pretty close game.
“But breaking the record was a good moment and something I can look back on.”
It was the second milestone for the senior, who set the single-season record her freshman season, scoring 188 while leading the Conquerors to the Division 6 finals, losing to Walnut, 11-6.
She added the career mark to her resume this season, scoring 141 in 31 games to finish with 639. Contreras eclipsed La Salle’s Kara-Leigh Huse’s mark of 607 with four goals in a 9-8 victory over Temescal Canyon on Feb. 2.
“It was kind of crazy, because after I (set the record) I had to come out of the pool,” Contreras said. “Everyone was hugging me. We had a pretty good turnout, so it was good.
“The single season was out of the blue just before playoffs they told me I had a a shot at the record. I was like, ‘OK, I can score all these goals.’ But this was more of a build up. It definitely (felt) better.”
Contreras then helped the Conquerors finished strong, taking a share of second-place in the Hacienda League with Walnut before advancing to the CIF-SS Division 4 semifinals with wins over Rio Mesa and South Pasadena. Their season ended with the 7-6 loss to Troy.
The senior was Hacienda League MVP and first team All-CIF-SS Division 4. She said her college choices include Stanford and Arizona State.

Coach of the Year: CHRIS COLEMAN, Los Altos
Coleman, who just completed his seventh year at Los Altos, has built the Conquerors into one of the top programs in the area, guiding Los Altos to the CIF-Southern Section Division 6 finals in 2010 and the Division 4 semifinals this season. He has 141 wins in seven years at Los Altos and one season at Nipomo. The Conquerors, who finished second in the Hacienda League to Bonita, were 22-9 this season en route to advancing to the semifinals, losing 7-6 to Troy.

FIRST TEAM
SAMMY SANCHEZ, La Puente, Senior
It’s not often that a player is selected MVP of their league without leading her team to the league championship. Sanchez is the exception. She earned MVP of the league, leading the Warriors to share of second-place before losing in the first round of the Division 7 playoffs. La Puente finished 6-10.
JESSICA YBARRA, Ayala, Junior
Ybarra enjoyed a solid season, helping the Bulldogs to a Sierra League title and the CIF-Southern Section Division 3 quarterfinals. She was MVP of the Sierra League after leading Ayala to an 8-0 league mark and a 26-5 overall record. The junior also earned first team All-Division 3.
RACHEL STOCK, St. Lucy’s, Senior
Stock has been one of the top goalies each of the past two seasons, following up last season’s All-Area second team honor with a first-team award this season. She keyed St. Lucy’s run to a second-place finish in the Sierra League and a 16-13 record. Stock was first team All-Sierra League.
MIA RYCRAW, Walnut, Senior
Rycraw earned her second first-team All-Area selection. She helped the Mustangs to a share of second-place in the Hacienda League and a 17-7 record. She was first team All-CIF-Southern Section Division 4 and first team All-Sierra League.
ROSE TAKEUCHI, Los Altos, Senior
Takeuchi was a key factor in the Conquerors winning 22 games and advancing to the Division 4 semifinals. She ranked among the area leaders with 320 saves, 46 steals and eight assists. She was first team All-Hacienda League and first team All-CIF-SS Division 4.
NATALIE RIVAS, Bonita, Junior
The junior was one of the top scorers in the area and played a big part in Bonita ranked No. 1 in Division 4 most of the season before winning the Hacienda League title and advancing to the divisional semifinals. She was first team All-Hacienda League and first team All-CIF-SS Division 4.
SAMANTHA SNOW, Bonita, Junior
Snow was half of the Bearcats’ dynamic duo that also featured Natalie Rivas. She ranked among the area leaders in scoring and helped Bonita to a 24-8 record and the Hacienda League title. She was first team All-CIF-SS Division 4 and first team All-Hacienda League.

SECOND TEAM
Erin McCarthy, St. Lucy’s, Sr.
Brittany Seaman, St. Lucy’s, Sr.
Angela Gomez, Bonita, Sr.
Erin Gonzalez, Bonita, So.
Erica Venegas, Los Altos, Sr.
Brea Cook, Glendora, Sr.
Kimberly Covert, Ayala, Sr.

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Here’s this week’s baseball rankings
1. Bonita (19-2-1) – What you have to admire about the ‘Cats is they graduate Justin Garza, one of the best high school pitchers in Valley history and come back with a staff that boasts a 1.48 ERA for the season. And how about undefeated Parker Merritt (5-0, 0.70), he doesn’t get enough credit. He was 8-1 last year and is 13-1 over two seasons. If there has been anyone better or more consistent over the past two seasons, I haven’t seen him.
2. South Hills (15-5) – The Huskies have a comfortable two game lead in the Sierra League, but as everyone knows, there’s nothing comfortable about the Sierra. The Huskies have a home-and-away against Damien, and a slip up could put them right back in a league fight.
3. Northview (17-4) – The Vikings and San Dimas are tied for the Valle Vista League lead at 5-1 with Baldwin Park making a hard push at 6-2. But the Vikings have the toughest finishing schedule with two games each against Baldwin Park this week, followed by Nogales and San Dimas. Safe to say, there are no gimmies in the final six.
4. Diamond Bar (16-3) – I normally can’t stand leagues that play home-and-away schedules, but in the Hacienda’s case, it’s working out perfectly. The Brahmas are 5-1 in league, one game back of Bonita and spend the next four games facing Walnut and Rowland, all easy wins on paper. That could set up a dramatic winner-take-all in the final week with two against the ‘Cats.
5. Glendora (14-6) – The Tartans are 6-3 in the Baseline and only a game back of league leader Los Osos, 7-2. The Tartans need to take care of business this week against struggling Rancho Cucamonga. If they do, it appears the final week could come down to the home-and-away against Los Osos.
6. San Dimas (16-6) – The Saints are looking good in the Valle Vista and have a big week against Covina. If the Saints win both, they’re in the drivers seat for the VVL title. But they finish the season with two against Northview, which is another case where the home-and-away could set up a dramatic finale.
7. Baldwin Park (15-4) – The Braves are the biggest surprise in the VVL, just a 1/2 game back of league leaders Northview and San Dimas with a home-and-away against Northview. Baldwin Park finishes the season against Wilson, which is probably two more wins. If they get a split or sweep against Northview, that could be good enough to earn them a piece of the league title when all is said and done.
8. Nogales (16-4) – At 3-3 in league, the Nobles are on the outside looking in at fourth place in the VVL after losing on Friday to Baldwin Park, 3-1. But the Nobles have a favorable schedule on their side. Other than two games against Northview, they should pick up four wins with home-and-aways against Pomona and Wilson.
9. Chino Hills (13-7) – The Huskies are tied with Claremont for second in the Sierra with 5-4 records, two games back of 7-2 South Hills.
10. Bishop Amat (10-10) – The Lancers have won four straight and are making a final push to get in the playoffs. Forget a league title, that’s between undefeated Cathedral and Serra, both 4-0. The Lancers and St. Paul are both 2-2, fighting for the third playoff spot. Amat plays two key games against La Salle this week, followed by two tough ones against Cathedral. But the question remains, are they good enough to get to the postseason, and if they get there, are they good enough to do any damage? At this point, I say no way. You’re what you’re, 10-10.

GAME FACE: Northview’s Sarina Jaramillo throws out San Dimas’ Kennedy Anderson in last week’s 4-3 loss to San Dimas.

This week’s softball rankings:
1. Bishop Amat (16-4) – A 3-1 loss to Vista Murrieta followed by an 8-6 win over Etiwanda during the Corona Santiago tournament. Amat is dominating the Del Rey so thoroughly it’s only test before the Division 3 playoffs comes in tournaments or non-league games. Lancers ranked third in D-3.
2. Chino Hills (18-6) – Undefeated in league but not the dominating Huskies we remember. They had to rally to beat Charter Oak 14-12 and snuck past St. Lucy’s 1-0. They also had a 4-2 win over Ayala so while they deserve the No. 2 spot, maybe the best is yet to come.
3. Ayala (13-4) – Bulldogs pitcher Morgan Ettinger has carried them. She’s 12-4 with a 1.36 ERA and 99 strikeouts. However, run support has been the difference. The Bulldogs have allowed the fewest runs (35) among Sierra League teams, but only has scored 73. Compare that to Chino Hills’ 159 runs scored, and there’s your difference.
4. South Hills (13-5) – Huskies are hanging tough, getting a split last week to go to 2-2 in the Sierra, but they have Chino Hills, Claremont and Charter Oak up next. Safe to say, playoff fate riding on next three.
5. Charter Oak (16-5) – After blowing a lead and the game to Chino Hills 14-12, the Chargers answered with a 3-1 win over South Hills. But they took a huge step back last week, losing to Ayala (1-0) and Claremont (4-0), and now suddenly are in a three-way tie for last at 1-3.
6. San Dimas (14-8) – The Saints remained undefeated in the Valle Vista with a 4-3 win over Northview and will probably run the table until they meet Northview again in the league finale the final week.
7. Bonita (16-6) – The Bearcats knocked West Covina out of league contention with a sweep over the Bulldogs last week to go 6-0 in the Hacienda, and they should continue to dominate the next two weeks with home-and-away games vs. Los Altos and Walnut. It will likely all come down to the final week, when it finishes the season with two against Diamond Bar, one game back at 5-1.
8. Northview (14-5) – The Vikings are 6-1 in the Valle Vista in what is a two-team race with San Dimas. Northview and San Dimas should cruise until they meet again, and when they do, I’ve got Northview in the rematch.
9. Duarte (13-3) – Some have wondered why a team on a 12-game win streak and 8-0 in the Montview is only ranked eighth? Schedule, schedule, schedule. Just remember this, Duarte lost 10-0 to Covina in its own tournament. Safe to say, the Montview isn’t extremely difficult this season.
10. South El Monte (11-4) – Same questions asked of Duarte asked about South El Monte too. And while they’re undefeated and dominating the Mission Valley, can’t forget an 11-5 loss to Nogales and 10-2 loss to San Dimas. Again, schedule, schedule, schedule.

PHOTO GALLERY FROM THE MT. SAC RELAYS
Highlights and Interviews from the 2013 Mt. SAC Relays

PHOTO: Former Covina star Romontay McClain (Azusa Pacific) runs past former West Covina High standout BeeJay Lee (USC) as he finished third in the 100-Meter Olympic Development Elite during the Mt. SAC Relays. It brought back memories of the two going at it in high school.

By Steve Ramirez
Staff Writer
LA PUENTE – The mark of a good baseball team is to win when it’s not at its best.
Bishop Amat High School proved the adage Friday, getting an RBI single with with one out in the seventh to score a 3-2 victory over rival St. Paul in a Del Rey League game at Bishop Amat.
The Lancers, who overcame four errors and four walks from three pitchers to beat the Swordsmen for the second time this week, improved to 9-10 overall and 2-2 in league play.
St. Paul, which had tied it at 2 following a throwing error in the sixth, slipped to 15-9 and 2-2.
“Good teams find a way to access damage control,” Bishop Amat coach Andy Nieto said. “That’s what it was. We got ourselves in difficult situations. But we have a motto of if you give up one, fight hard to not give up two; if you give up two, fight hard to not give up three and so on.
“In those innings, it was one hit away from opening it up. We gave up one each time. I’m proud of these guys, because that takes tough guys in that situation to put the frustration of the error behind them and get the focus on the next out, which is what we did. That’s a good sign.”
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The Tribune rosters for the tenth annual Tribune vs. Star-News boys/girls all-star senior basketball game have been finalized. Damien High will host the games on Friday, April 26. The girls game is at 6 p.m., followed by the boys game at 8 p.m. First practices for both teams are scheduled next week. Bishop Amat coach Richard Wiard will coach the girls, who will practice on Monday at Bishop Amat between 7-9 p.m. Damien coach Matt Dunn will coach the boys team, which will practice on Tuesday from 6:30-8 p.m. at Damien High School.

TRIBUNE BOYS TEAM
Primitivo Gomez, Arroyo
Osnar Garcia, Workman
Mike Peters, Covina
Jared Dizon, Damien
Korey Hackett, Claremont
Nnadi Udengwu, Diamond Ranch
Skyler Williams, La Verne Lutheran
Jordan Stokes, San Dimas
Danny Johnson, Northview
Chris Arzadon, Rowland
Keith Cavanaugh, Damien
Joseph Cook, Bishop Amat
Joseph Dionisio, Rowland
Ryan Ramirez, Bonita
Jeriko Santos, South Hills

TRIBUNE GIRLS TEAM
Yewande Alabi, Diamond Bar
Amanda Britt, West Covina
Imari Brown, Duarte
Kelli Calton, Wilson
Mauriana Clayton, Bishop Amat
Aileen Giang, El Monte
Jasmine Hamori, Los Altos
Tai Lark, Diamond Ranch
Jessica Lupercio, Arroyo
Imani Payton, South Hills
Leeah Powell, Bishop Amat
Kristi Sakamoto, Ayala
Stephanie Vana, Bonita
Jennifer Vasquez, Bishop Amat
Megan Ward, Northview

One year after earning Tribune player of the year honors, La Verne Lutheran grad and Arizona freshman Grant Jerrett is making himself available for the NBA Draft. Question is, why? He only averaged 5 points and 3 rebounds for the Wildcats and was hardly an impact player. But he is 6-foot-10, shoot’s 3s and has the type of game that could translate to the NBA someday. But no way is he a fist round pick. He’s the type of player someone like the Lakers get late in the second round. Good luck, but a baffling decision.

What: 55th Mt. SAC Relays
When: Today-Saturday
Where: Mount San Antonio College, Walnut College and Olympic Developmental races begin at 10:15 a.m. today, high school races start at 5:50 p.m.; Competition for all starts at 7:30 a.m. Saturday

By Erik Boal, Staff Writer
High school competition at the 55th Mount San Antonio College Relays begins tonight with multiple state and national leaders commanding the spotlight at one of the country’s most prestigious meets.
Several elite distance races are scheduled for today, with sprinters and hurdlers competing Saturday in individual events and relays, along with standout jumpers and throwers.
Here are 10 must-see events for any track and field fan planning to attend the meet:

6:05 p.m. today — Boys 4 x 800 relay
Loyola produced the national-leading time of 7:44.13 this season April 6 at the Arcadia Invitational, but No. 4 Redondo Union, No. 5 Rancho Cucamonga, No. 9 Centennial of Las Vegas and No. 17 Vista Murrieta are ready for the rematch with Cubs, who could challenge Dana Hills’ 2009 meet record of 7:40.30.

8:20 p.m. today — Girls 4 x 1,600 relay
Redondo Union is also scheduled to compete in the 4 x 800 relay earlier, but the Seahawks and Saugus have taken turns in recent years lowering the state record and it could be challenged again in this marquee matchup. Redondo is ranked No. 1 in the country this year in the 4 x 800 and distance medley relay and could add another nation’s best mark here.

11 a.m. Saturday — Girls 300 hurdles
The state’s two fastest performers in the low hurdles — Great Oak’s Jade Miller and Long Beach Poly’s
Kymber Payne — will produce a rematch of their battle two weeks ago at Arcadia, with Rancho Cucamonga’s Jordie Munford, last year’s state runner-up, also scheduled to run, in addition to Carson’s Dayna Hurd and Alemany’s Skylin Harbin.

12:45 p.m. Saturday — Girls 100
Long Beach Poly’s Arianna Washington delivered one of the most memorable performances at Arcadia with her national-leading 23.34 in the 200 meters. Now she’ll look to improve her season-best 11.81 in the 100 against a field that includes state-leader Brittany Brown of Claremont (11.71), St. Mary’s Academy’s Sierra Peterson (11.86), Etiwanda’s Kayla Richardson (11.93), Oaks Christian’s Schuyler Moore (wind-aided 11.97) and Redlands’ Margaux Jones.

1:55 p.m. Saturday — Boys 4 x 100 relay
Serra’s Lloyd Siscard will have already competed in the 300 hurdles, but he’ll also be counted on here for the state-leading Cavaliers (41.45) against a field that features California’s top five teams and seven of the top nine — including Roosevelt, Loyola, Notre Dame, Castro Valley, Vista Murrieta and Long Beach Poly — this season.

3 p.m. Saturday — Girls long jump
Harvard-Westlake’s Courtney Corrin produced the nation’s best jump under all conditions with her effort of 20 feet, 2 1/4 inches at Arcadia. She’ll take aim at the meet record of 20-3 1/2, with Los Osos’ Kira Moreland, Simi Valley’s Madisen Richards, Redlands’ Margaux Jones, Roosevelt’s Akia Armstrong and Vista Murrieta’s Michelle Norman also part of this talented lineup.

5 p.m. Saturday — Girls shot put
The state’s top three throwers — Dos Pueblos’ Stamatia Scarvelis, Alemany’s Nia Britt and La Sierra’s Tanya Sapa — will take aim at closing the gap against Ashlie Blake of Nevada, whose effort of 50-9 1/4 was enough to distance herself from the talented group of challengers at Arcadia. Notre Dame’s Ginika Iwuchukwu, Newbury Park’s Kendall Mader and Long Beach Millikan’s Destiny Talalemotu are also scheduled to compete.

6 p.m. Saturday — Girls high jump
South Pasadena’s Claire Kieffer-Wright, the defending state champion, prevailed in a three-way tiebreaker based on fewer attempts after clearing 5-10 at Arcadia. If she can equal or exceed her state-leading mark of 5-10 3/4, she’ll break Amy Acuff’s 1984 meet record of 5-10. Vashti Cunningham, who tied Kieffer-Wright at Arcadia and is the daughter of former NFL quarterback Randall Cunningham, is also scheduled to compete along with Harvard-Westlake’s Alex Florent.

6:05 p.m. Saturday — Boys 200
Notre Dame’s Khalfani Muhammad is the reigning state champion, but suffered a setback in this event against Roosevelt of Corona’s Elijah Mitchell by a 21.21 to 21.40 margin at Arcadia. They could both be chasing Devon Allen from Brophy Prep in Phoenix, who beat Mitchell and Muhammad last season at Arcadia, with Redlands’ Walter Jones and Camarillo’s Ahmed Obed also in the race.

7:35 p.m. Saturday — Girls Distance Medley relay
The only race Simi Valley star Sarah Baxter is scheduled to run this weekend is as the Pioneers’ 1,600-meter anchor on this relay. Even her efforts likely won’t be enough to challenge national-leader Redondo Union (11:51.82), which is aiming for Torrey Pines’ meet record of 11:41.84 in 2010, but Simi Valley could be one of several teams to eclipse the 12-minute barrier.
IF YOU GO

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2013 GIRLS SOCCER ALL-AREA PHOTO GALLERY
2013 GIRLS SOCCER ALL-AREA TEAM ONLINE STORIES AND BIO’S

Player of the Year: TATUM LOCKETT, Diamond Bar, Senior
While U.S. National team forward Alex Morgan is Diamond Bar High School’s most famous girls soccer graduate, she never earned the accolades that forward Tatum Lockett is leaving with. Lockett finished the season with 35 goals and nine assists to lead Diamond Bar to the Hacienda League title and a CIF-Southern Section Division 3 quarterfinal appearance.
She was named the Hacienda League most valuable player, was a Division 3 first-team selection and also has been selected the San Gabriel Valley Tribune girls soccer player of the year.
“I really didn’t expect all of this,” Lockett said. “You set goals and you want to exceed them, but what I learned from my coach and my family is just to keep on working. If you do your best and leave it all out there, there’s nothing more you can do.”
Lockett, a daunting striker who could finish through the run of play and on set pieces – particularly on headers – will continue her career at UC Riverside, which is no surprise considering her family bloodlines.
Lockett has two brothers who played football at Diamond Bar.
One is Bret Lockett, who continued at UCLA and is now in the NFL. And the other is Colin Lockett, who plays football for San Diego State.
But for Tatum Lockett, to be able to leave her own mark was extremely satisfying.
“I didn’t felt the need or pressure to live up to anything, but I wanted to make a name for myself and I think I did that,” Lockett said. “Since I was a freshman, there were a lot of expectations so for it to end like this, and to get (player of the year), I’m just really thankful and grateful to all my teammates and my family.”
Diamond Bar finished 19-4-3 and leaned on Lockett time after time to produce goals when it needed it the most.
“I had to kind of step up being a team leader,” Lockett said. “I felt I gave it my all and that we accomplished a lot this season. We didn’t win it all, but we competed and gave it everything we had.”

Coach of the Year: RUBEN GONZALEZ, Bishop Amat
The Lancers’ coach earned his second San Gabriel Valley Tribune coach of the year award after leading his club to its second CIF-Southern Section divisional title in three years, and third straight championship appearance. Bishop Amat defeated powerful Pasadena Poly 4-2 in the Division 3 championship after surviving a nerve-racking postseason playoff run that included a 4-3 quarterfinal victory over Diamond Bar, and a semifinal win over Yorba Linda that ended with Amat surviving in penalty kicks, 5-4, after a 0-0 tie in regulation and two overtimes.

TRIBUNE FIRST TEAM
Demi Lomeli, Bishop Amat, Senior
The ball-stopping defender was clutch during the Lancers’ march to the CIF-Southern Section Division 3 championship, earning Del Rey League first-team honors. She was part of a tremendous backline that boasted three starting defenders on the CIF-SS Division 1 first-team list.
Kelly Velasquez, Bishop Amat, Senior
The sturdy central defender usually marked the opposing teams best striker while also floating defenisvely to clean up breakdowns. She was argubaly the Lancers’ best defender, earning Del Rey League first-team and CIF-SS Division 1 first-team honors.
Morgan Quarternik, San Dimas, Jr.
The Valle Vista League first-team defender also was named to the CIF-SS Division VI first-team after anchoring the Saints’ backline to the divisional semifinals for the second straight season. The versatile Quarternik could do more than just defend, often helping her team build an attack.
Marissa Favela, Diamond Bar, Senior
The senior attacking midfielder helped the Brahmas to the outright Hacienda League title and quarterfinal appearance in the CIF-SS Division 3 playoffs. She finished with 14 goals and 10 assists, earning Hacienda League first-team honors and was a Division 3 second-team selection.
Yazmin Montoya, Bishop Amat, Senior
The sturdy ball-winning midfielder is the only Lancers player to be a starter on the 2011 and 2013 CIF-SS championship teams, and was part of three straight Lancers squad that reached the finals. She finished with 12 goals and 11 assists and was named to the All Del Rey League squad.
Nayeli Requejo, Bishop Amat, Senior
The Lancers’ small but feisty attacking midfielder was a clutch performer throughout the Division 3 playoffs in leading her team to its second championship in three years. Requejo was named the Division 3 player of the year after finishing with 24 goals and 17 assists. She also was a Del Rey League first-team selection.
Jessica Lopez, Sierra Vista, Jr.
The Montview League most valuable player tallied a whopping 37 goals to go with 40 assists for the league champion Dons, who finished 22-3-1 and advanced to the second round of the Division 6 playoffs. Lopez also was a Division 6 first-team selection for the second straight year.
Katie Zamora, Bishop Amat, Senior
The senior forward earned Del Rey League first-team honors and had a knack for scoring when her team desperately needed it, finishing with five postseason goals during the Lancers’ Division 3 playoff run, including a goal in their title-winning 4-2 victory over Pasadena Poly. She finished with 18 goals and 8 assists.
Ashley Gonzalez, Chino Hills, Jr.
Against extremely tough competition, the junior striker proved to be one of the areas best finishers with 30 goals and 11 assists for the Sierra League champions, who advanced to the Division 2 quarterfinals. Gonzalez also was selected to the Sierra League first team and was a Division 2 first-team selection.
Daisy Duran, San Dimas, Jr.
The Saints’ dangerous striker powered her team to the Valle Vista League title and a second straight appearance in the CIF-SS Division 6 semifinals. Duran led her team and the Valle Vista league in scoring to earn league most valuable player honors. She also was a CIF-SS Division 6 first-team selection.
Katelynn Oshima, Walnut, Senior
The Mustangs’ goalkeeper boasted 10 shutouts in earning Hacienda All-League first-team honors and helped her team to a second-place finish behind Diamond Bar in the league standings. She also anchored the Mustangs to an easy 8-1 victory in the first round of the Division 3 playoffs.

SECOND TEAM
Defender: Denise Garcia, Chino Hills, Jr.
Defender: Ariana Holmes, Claremont, Senior
Defender: Ciara Balderamma, Covina, Senior
Defender: Iris Yam, Diamond Bar, Senior
Midfielder: Mimi Rangel, Chino Hills, Senior
Midfielder: Micaela Estrada, Arroyo, Senior
Midfielder: Emily Castellano, Charter Oak, Senior
Midfielder: Hanna Chua, Claremont, Jr.
Forward: Daisy Ruiz, Sierra Vista, Jr.
Forward: Cassandra Reyes, Bishop Amat, Senior
GK: Britain Chaputa, San Dimas, Jr.

HONORABLE MENTION
Rachel Curley, Bonita, So.
Alisson Kung, Wilson, Jr.
Helena Kisor, Diamond Bar, So.
Angela Schmidt, Diamond Bar, Senior
Lena Suehrstedt, Bishop Amat, Senior
Jamie Peters, Bishop Amat, So.
Erin Harris, Walnut, Jr.
Cassie Duran, Walnut, Senior
Samantha Verduzco, Los Altos, Jr.
Sarah Becerra, Los Altos, Senior
Amanda Ball, Chino Hills, Jr.
Madison Stark, Claremont, Jr.
Claire Damon, Claremont, Senior

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By Steve Ramirez
Staff Writer
COVINA – When it comes to pitching, Adrian De Horta is usually money for the South Hills High School baseball team.
The senior showed Thursday he can also be clutch with a bat in his hands.
De Horta went 3 for 4, including a key two-run triple to highlight a four-run sixth inning to help the Huskies to a 7-4 victory over Charter Oak in a Sierra League game.
South Hills, also getting two hits and an RBI from Niko Contreras, improved to 15-5 overall and 7-2 in league play to hold onto first place. De Horta also gave up four runs and seven hits with seven strikeouts in six innings.
Nick Hernandez had two RBIs and Ross Barrera had two hits for the Chargers, who slipped to 7-9 and 3-6.
“It’s a big win for us,” South Hills coach Kevin Smith said. “You have to give the kids at Charter Oak a ton of credit. They battled their butts off today. I knew they were going to come back. Adrian wasn’t his best today. But he battled and had the big hit for us in the sixth inning.
“I’m pleased with that. I just thought we were a little flat. Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy with the win, the way we came back. I just don’t think we should have been in that situation. That’s what frustrates me. But it was a great high school baseball game.”
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2013 TRIBUNE BOYS SOCCER ALL AREA PHOTO GALLERY
2013 TRIBUNE BOYS SOCCER ALL AREA TEAM ONLINE STORIES AND BIO’S

Player of the Year: BRETT JENKINS, Damien, Senior
By Fred J. Robledo
Brett Jenkins thought Damien lost too many talented players to challenge for the school’s first outright Sierra League title since 2006.
But the senior attacking midfielder didn’t expect the chemistry to come together the way it did, resulting in the outright league title and a CIF-Southern Section Division 1 second-round appearance as the Spartans finished the season 15-4-3.
Jenkins was the catalyst, finishing with a team-leading 12 goals and 13 assists in earning Sierra League most valuable player honors.
Jenkins, who was a Sierra league first-team selection as a junior, was also named to the prestigious CIF-SS Division 1 first team, and for his outstanding season, has been selected the San Gabriel Valley Tribune boys soccer player of the year for 2012-13.
“Going into the season we didn’t know what to expect and we had a rough start losing to Hesperia (2-0 in the third game of the season),” Jenkins said. “We didn’t have the individuals we had last year but we came together and played better as a team.
“When you look back, it was a great season, everyone stepped up and played a part.”
Jenkins was the perfect blend of playmaker and scorer.
He had five assists in an 8-0 win over South Hills, notched a hat trick in a 3-0 win over Charter Oak and scored two goals with two assists in a 5-0 non-league win over Arroyo.
It was that kind of balance that orchestrated the attack game after game.
“I had to find a way to get the ball in the back of the net,” Jenkins said. “And I give my teammates a lot of credit too. I don’t get assists if they don’t finish. We had a lot of players who could finish.”
Jenkins hasn’t decided where he will wind up next. St. Mary’s is an option, but he would also like to stay closer to home.
He will likely make his college decision over the coming months.
“We’ll see what happens, I’m still going over my options,” Jenkins said. “But all in all, I couldn’t of asked for a better senior season.
“This was a great team to play with, we all supported each other and got better toward the end of the year.”

Coach of the Year: ERIC McELREA, Damien
The Spartans are known for their soccer, having produced U.S. soccer legend Ricky Davis and back-to-back CIF-Southern Section title teams in 2005 and `06.
But the Spartans haven’t done much damage in the playoffs since and hadn’t won a Sierra League title outright since 2006. That finally changed. Damien won the Sierra League title outright with an 8-2 record and finished 14-5-3 overall, advacning to the second round of the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs. For his efforts, McElrea has been selected the San Gabriel Valley Tribune boys soccer coach of the year.

TRIBUNE FIRST TEAM
Michael Sanchez, Damien, Senior
The sturdy defender was named to the Sierra League first team and was a CIF-Southern Section Division 2 second-team selection. He was part of a defense that only allowed 19 goals. Sanchez also helped the league champion Spartans advance to the second-round of the Division 1 playoffs.
Alex Henry, Los Altos, Senior
The Conquerors’ senior defender was one of the area’s best ball stoppers, helping his team to a share of the Hacienda League title and second-round appearance in the CIF-SS Division 5 playoffs. Henry was named first-team all Hacienda League and was part of a defense that only allowed 17 goals in 30 games.
Gabe Brown, Diamond Bar, Senior
Was arguably the areas best all-around defender for the 15-7-2 Brahmas. He was named to the Hacienda League first team and also found ways to produce on the offensive end, finishing with four goals and three assists. He helped his team to a 2-1 victory over Laguna Beach in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 5 playoffs.
Danny Hernandez, Walnut, Junior
The Mustangs’ attacking midfielder was a Hacienda League first-team selection for the co-league champions. He was a natural attacking midfielder who finished with nine goals and seven assists in helping his team reach the second round of the CIF-SS Division 5 playoffs.
Juan Gutierrez, Pomona, Senior
The midfield general helped the Red Devils reach the second round of the CIF-SS Division 4 playoffs and led his team to the Valle Vista League title and an impressive 14-5-4 overall record. Gutierrez was a Valle Vista league first team selection and all-league choice for the second straight year.
Jorge Ramos, South Hills, Senior
Was the architect of the Huskies’ offense, controlling the midfield and final third in leading his team to a playoff spot from the competitive Sierra League. Ramos was named to the all-area soccer team for the second straight year and was a Sierra League first-team choice.
Ben Santia, Claremont, Senior
The Wolfpack midfielder could do it all, nearly helping his team reach the CIF-SS Division 1 semifinals, losing to eventual finalist Servite in penalty kicks in the quarterfinals. Santia was named to the prestigious Division 1 first team and also was a Sierra League first-team selection.
Benjamin Jimenez, Damien, Senior
The Spartans’ slippery forward was named to the Sierra League first-team after helping his team to the league title and finishing with 11 goals and eight assists. He had a spectacular game in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs, scoring all three goals in the Spartans’ 3-1 victory.
Matthew Lares, Rowland, Senior
The striker was so highly thought of despite the Raiders finishing fifth in the Hacienda League that he was named the Hacienda League most valuable player, something rarely earned for non-playoff teams. And for good reason, Lares finished with 21 of the Raiders’ 31 goals this season.
Mario Interiano, Walnut, Senior
Walnut’s leading scorer stood just over 5 feet, 4 inches, but was one of the most explosive players in the area, finishing with 18 goals and seven assists for the co-league champions. The striker was named to the Hacienda League first team, and was an all-league selection for the third straight season.
Dayker Villalobos, Baldwin Park, Senior
The areas best goalkeeper was named to the CIF-Southern Section Division 4 first-team and was the Valle Vista League most valuable player. Villalobos almost singlehandly helped the Braves finish third in the Valle Vista league and reach the playoffs, despite its struggles on the field.

SECOND TEAM
Defender: Alexis Godina, Baldwin Park, Senior
Defender: Steven Mancia, Claremont, Sophomore
Defender: Garrett Souza, Damien, Senior
Defender: Eddie Hurtado, Pomona, Senior
Midfielder: Alexander Piceno, Sierra Vista, Senior
Midfielder: Guillermo Sanchez, Sierra Vista, Senior
Midfielder: Austin Bishop, Glendora, Sophomore
Forward: Michael Flores, Sierra Vista, Junior
Forward: Kelley Collins, Claremont, Senior
Forward: Grayson Iwasaki, South Hills, Senior
Goalkeeper: Mike O’Toole, Damien, Senior

HONORABLE MENTION
Kase Vollebregt, Diamond Bar, Senior
Steve Flores, Charter Oak, Junior
Gabriel Florez, Ayala, Senior
Adam Fox, Los Altos, Junior
Sam Williams, Damien, Senior
Wyatt Deane, Bonita, Senior
Gerardo, Hernandez, West Covina, Senior
Oscar Briceno, Rowland, Senior
Sergio Ramirez, Chino Hills Junior
Edgar Gomez, Azusa, Senior
Ruben Cueva, Bassett, Senior
Edward Mancilla, Bishop Amat, Senior
Juan Estrada, Sierra Vista, Senior
Josue Horan, La Puente, Senior
Carlos Loreto, Ganesha, Senior
Nathan DiFiori, Bishop Amat, Junior

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Sierra League
South Hills at Charter Oak, 3:30 p.m.
Claremont at Damien, 3:30 p.m.
Ayala at Chino Hills, 3:30 p.m.
Valle Vista League
Nogales at Covina, 3:15 p.m.
Baldwin Park at Pomona, 3:15 p.m.
Wilson at Northview, 3:15 p.m.
Montview League
Bassett at La Puente, 3:15 p.m.
Duarte at Gladstone, 3:15 p.m.
Workman at Azusa, 3:15 p.m.
Sierra Vista at Ganesha, 3:15 p.m.

By Aram Tolegian Staff Writer

Organizers have settled on April 26 as the date in which local hoops fans will find out exactly which side of the Valley plays the best high school basketball when the 10th Tribune/Star-News All-Star Classic is played at Damien High.

The girls game will take place at 6 p.m. and the boys game will be played at 8 p.m. There will be a 3-point shooting contest at halftime of each game.

“It’s a great opportunity to showcase the fine athletes we have in our Valley from the Pasadena area all the way out to La Verne and Claremont,” game organizer Gordon Hamlow said. “It’s an opportunity for our seniors in the Valley to get one more chance to compete in front of their fans. For some, it will be their last competitive game and for others who are going on to college, it’s a neat opportunity to give people a taste of what to expect in the future.”

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By Steve Ramirez
Staff Writer
SAN DIMAS – San Dimas High School has won the Valle Vista League softball title the previous four seasons.
The Saints took a big step toward a fifth Wednesday.
Briana Quintana singled with the bases loaded in the 10th inning and host San Dimas took over first place with a 4-3 victory over Northview in a league encounter that also featured two of the top teams in the area.
Senior pitcher Bethie Celaya tossed a four-hitter and struck six for the Saints, who improved to 14-7 overall and 6-0 in league play. The Vikings, getting two RBIs from Monet Manning and Erinn Jaramillo hit a home run, slipped to 13-5 and 5-1.
“It’s a big win for us,” Quintana said. “(Northview is) our main competition. Winning here, puts us on top.”
Kaili Now started San Dimas’ winning rally when she beat out an infield single with one out. Deenah San Luis followed with a single to center field, which forced Northview coach Jeff Butler to make an unconventional decision of intentionally walking catcher Janell Wheaton to load the bases with one out.
Wheaton was 1 for 3 with a RBI triple in the third.
“I knew we were in trouble no matter what we did,” Butler said. “My philosophy forever has always been to not let their best hitter beat us. Janell is their best hitter. Briana is a good hitter too, but it put us in a force situation and a possible double play to get out of the inning.
“Sometimes you have to roll the bones. I rolled them and it didn’t come out right this time.”
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TRIBUNE BOYS BASKETBALL ALL-AREA PHOTO GALLERY
TRIBUNE ALL-AREA TEAM POSTED ONLINE

Player of the Year: JEREMY HEMSLEY, Damien, Sophomore
By Steve Ramirez
For some, this was supposed to be a re-building season for the Damien High School boys basketball team.
Instead, it was the best season in the program’s history, ending with the school’s first CIF-Southern Section divisional title with a Division 3AA championship and a victory in the CIF State playoffs.
The difference for the Spartans, who had lost in the semifinals three out of the previous four years, was sophomore Jeremy Hemsley, who proved to be the difference between Final Four frustration and championship glory.
For his efforts, Hemsley is San Gabriel Valley Tribune Boys Basketball Player of the Year.
“I think we did a good job of bringing the school together,” said Hemsley, Damien’s go-to- player, who came up big down the stretch. “It was nice, having everybody (there) who likes sports, giving them something (they never had). I’m happy we were able to accomplish a lot this year.”
The key was Hemsley, who quickly got the Spartan faithful get over the loss of all-everything postplayer Chris Reyes, who graduated after last season and is now at St. Mary’s.
Hemsley, who averaged nearly 20 points a game, helped Damien to a 15-2 start before keying the stretch in the postseason, which included easy victories over Los Amigos (74-28), Wilson (60-45) and Temescal Canyon (62-32) before securing the title with wins over Corona del Mar (61-53) in the semifinals and Santa Margarita (54-40) in the 3AA title game. Hemsley averaged 20 points in the postseason, including dropping 25 on Corona del Mar and 17 against Santa Margarita.
“I never really felt the pressure coming into the season,” Hemsley said. “My goal coming into the season was to win ( a section title). I didn’t feel the pressure of it, I just wanted to accomplish that goal.”
Because of it, he pushed himself and his team in the critical moments down the stretch, including the close games in the final four. Hemsley made three of four free throws down the stretch before capping the win at Corona del Mar in the semifinals with a signature dunk. Then, after getting in early foul trouble in the title game, he responded with a monster fourth quarter to key the 54-40 victory over Santa Margarita.
“I tried to tell my teammates there going into the second half that we weren’t in a bad situation,” Hemsley said. “I tried to lead my team, and that’s what happened.”
But Hemsely wasn’t quite finished with the heroics. He added one more memory to the season when he drained a 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Spartans a 74-72 victory over Mission Oak, of Tulare, in the first round of the state playoffs.
Damien’s magical run finally ended with a 59-48 loss at Chaminade in the Southern California Regional quarterfinals.
“It was a great year,” Hemsley said. “I’m really proud of my teammates and coaches and what we were able to accomplish this year. ”
And next season?
“Next year, I think we’re going to be a young team, but I think we’re going to be better,” Hemsley said. “I’m looking forward to it.”

Coach of the Year: MATT DUNN, Damien
Dunn has turned around the culture at Damien, transforming the basketball team from a solid program to one of the best in the area that annually competes for CIF-SS glory. After advancing to the divisional semifinals three times in the previous four seasons, Dunn finally got the Spartans over the hump with a Division 3AA title, the first section crown in school history. Dunn, whose Spartans were 26-7, was 3AA Coach of the Year

TRIBUNE FIRST TEAM
PRIMITIVO GOMEZ, Arroyo, Senior, Forward/Guard
The senior proved to be one of the better front court players in the area. He earned Mission Valley League MVP and ranked about the area leaders in scoring with 25.7 points a game. He also had 10.7 rebounds per contest and 3.4 assists. Gomez keyed the Knights run to the school’s first Mission Valley League title and 20-7 record. He saved his best for Arroyo’s big games, scoring 30 points with 14 rebounds in the Knights’ 67-66 victory over second-place Gabrielino on Jan. 11, then had 28 and 10 in the rematch on Jan. 30.
OSNAR GARCIA, Workman, Senior, Guard
The senior earned Montview League MVP after keying the Lobos to one of the better seasons in the program’s history, which included going 26-2, winning the Montview League and advancing two rounds in the CIF-SS Division 4AA playoffs. Garcia was a prolific scorer with 24 points a game. He also averaged 5.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 4.0 steals per contest.
MIKE PETERS, Covina, Senior, Guard
Peters played a major part in Covina making a little school history, which included the Colts win back-to-back league titles for the fist time since the early 1980s. Covina shared the Valle Vista League crown last year and won it outright this season. The senior ranked among the area leaders in scoring, which earned in league MVP and first team All-CIF-SS Division 3A
CAMERON CURRY, Chino Hills, Senior, Guard
The senior was a key factor for the Huskies, who went undefeated in winning the Sierra League and advanced two rounds in the CIF-SS Division IAA playoffs. Curry ranked among the area leaders in scoring and earned first team All-Sierra League.
JARED DIZON, Damien, Senior, Guard
Dizon was a key factor, along with area player of the year Jermey Hemsley, to the Spartans winning the school’s first CIF-SS crown. He was Damien’s outside option, averaging 13.7 points a game with 85 3-pointers. He was first team All-CIF-SS Division 3AA and All-Sierra League.
NNADI UDENGWU, Diamond Ranch, Senior, Forward
The senior averaged 16.7 points and 8.5 rebounds per game to help the Panthers to a 16-13 record. He earned first team All-CIF-SS Division 3AA and Hacienda League co-MVP.
DANE HOLLAR, Bonita, Junior
Hollar helped Bonita to a 25-6 record and continue its string of Hacienda League titles. He ranked among the area leaders in scoring and was league co-MVP.
JOE RUSHING, La Verne Lutheran, Junior, Forward
The junior helped the Trojans to CIF-SS Division 4AA finals and a 26-8 record, which included a 63-59 victory over Bishop Montgomery in the quarterfinals. Rushing averaged 15.1 points a game and was first team All-CIF-SS Division 4AA.
SKYLER WILLIAMS, La Verne Lutheran, Senior Guard
The senior was another key part of the Trojans run to the CIF-SS Division 4AA finals, which included a victory over highly-regarded Bishop Montgomery in the quarterfinals. He averaged 12.2 points a game.
A.J. BIGORNIA, Glendora, Junior, Guard
The junior helped Glendora advance to the CIF-SS Division 1A quarterfinals and a 19-11 record. He ranked among the area leaders in scoring, including dropping in 30 points in a 55-49 victory over Dominguez in a second-round playoff game. He was first team All-CIF-SS Division 2A and first team All-Baseline League.

SECOND TEAM
Elias Hernandez, Covina, Jr.
Jordan Stokes, San Dimas, Sr.
Westley Ondatje, Chino Hills, Sr.
Keith Cavanaugh, Damien, Sr.
Joseph Cook, Bishop Amat, Sr.
Joseph Dionisio, Rowland, Sr.
Ryan Ramirez, Bonita, Sr.
Christian Manalo, Diamond Bar, Jr.
Thomas Rico, Glendora, Jr.
Jeriko Santos, South Hills, Sr.

TOP 10
1. Damien (26-7)
2. La Verne Lutheran (26-8)
3. Chino Hills (24-5)
4. Glendora (19-11)
5. Bonita (25-6)
6. Workman (26-2)
7. Covina (21-6)
8. Claremont (20-10)
9. Arroyo (20-7)
10. Rowland (19-9)

PHOTO GALLERY OF TRIBUNE ALL-AREA GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM
ALL-AREA GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM ONLINE

Player of the Year: NIKKI WHEATLEY, Bonita

By Steve Ramirez
Bonita High School, after advancing to the CIF-Southern Section divisional finals and semifinals the previous two seasons, was supposed to be in rebuilding mode this season.
Nikki Wheatley wouldn’t allow it.
For her efforts in helping the Bearcats to a third consecutive semifinal appearance, Wheatley is San Gabriel Valley Tribune Girls Basketball Player of the Year.
It’s the junior’s third consecutive season on the All-Area team and her second Player of the Year award.
“It was definitely rewarding,” Wheatley said. “The same thing happened (last year) when we lost some key players and people didn’t believe we were going to do as good.
“The same thing happened this year. We lost Bri Kennedy (to graduation) and people thought we were going to struggle, but by us playing as a team we picked up the slack and still make into (the Southern Section and state playoffs).”
A big part of that was Wheatley, who stepped up her game to lead a young Bearcats team that was perfect in winning the Hacienda League before advancing to the 2AA semifinals and the Division 2 state playoffs.
Wheatley, who has been arguably the top player in the area since leading Bonita to the divisional finals in 2011, played her best down the stretch in helping the Bearcats to the 2AA final four.
She averaged more than 20 points a game through the regular season to earn Hacienda League MVP before scoring 29 and 24 points, respectively, in playoff wins over Mira Costa (52-47) and Cajon (60-47) in the second and quarterfinal rounds before a 22-point effort in a 60-47 loss to Lynwood in the semifinals.
“I definitely knew I would have to step up this season,” Wheatley said. “I knew I had to be a key player. But we also had a lot of other girls step up to help me. I knew I had to step up and play by best each and every game.”
Bonita ended its season with a 66-43 setback to La Costa Canyon, of Carlsbad, in the first round of the state playoffs.
“I thought we had a good season,” Wheatley said. “It was disappointing that we couldn’t go further. But I thought how far we went was really good for our team.
“With all the young players we had, we worked really hard and went further than I think people expected.”
Wheatley was big part in that. But a lot as been expected of the junior since she bursted on to the local scene her freshman season in 2011. She’s also stepped up her game each season.
“I think I’ve improved a lot in my shot,” Wheatley said. “My freshman year, because we had some good shooters, I didn’t have to shoot a lot.
“I also make better decisions on the court than I did then. I try to limit my turnovers and I feel I better in getting everyone else involved in the game.”
Now she’s ready for a final season in 2013-14, which could conclude with that elusive CIF-SS title, with an influx of transfers to help the key returners.
“Next year, I hope we can make it really for next year,” Wheatley said. “I feel with some key players coming in, I’m really excited and I think next year will be a good year.”

Coach of the Year: RICHARD WIARD, Bishop Amat
Wiard is arguably the top girls basketball coach in area history. He has guided the Lancers to five CIF-Southern Section titles and two state titles. The Lancers added to their lore this season, going 25-10 and advancing to the sectional finals for the seventh time, losing to Canyon Springs in the Division IA championship game. Amat was again the last area team standing, losing to Long Beach Poly in the CIF State Division I Southern California Regional semifinals. Wiard was Division IA Coach of the Year.

TRIBUNE FIRST TEAM
PAULINA SANTANA, Bishop Amat, Junior, Guard
Santana was key figure for the Lancers down the stretch. She had big games in playoff wins over Westminster and Ventura. The junior was named first team All-CIF-SS Division IA and first team All-Del Rey League.
DAGMAR RAMIREZ, Bishop Amat, Junior, Forward
Notable: Ramirez was one of the top players in the area before suffering a knee injury late in the regular season. She was second team All-Del Rey League.
MAURIANA CLAYTON, Bishop Amat, Senior, Forward
Notable: Clayton was another key player down the stretch that helped the Lancers overcome the injury to Ramirez to make a run at the program’s sixth divisional title. She had big games vs. Westminster and Ventura. Clayton was first team All-CIF-SS Division IA and second team All-Del Rey League.
JANAE CHAMOIS, Bishop Amat, Junior, Guard
Chamois stepped up in the postseason to provide Amat with a solid defensive front while contributing to the offense. She had solid outings vs. Westminster and Ventura.
CASIE LOWDEN, Glendora, Senior, Forward
Loweden was one of the top inside players in the area, She averaged 14. 8 points and 8.8 rebounds per game to help the Tartans to a 19-10 record. The senior was first team All-Baseline League.
KELLI CALTON, Wilson, Senior, Guard
Calton was the key factor for the Wildcats, who went 22-7 and advanced to the CIF-SS Division 3AA quarterfinals. She averaged 12.9 points a game. The senior was Valle Vista League MVP and first team All-CIF-SS Division 3AA/
IMARI BROWN, Duarte, Senior, Guard
Brown has been on of the top players in the area the past three years. She helped the Falcons to a 22-3 record and second-place finish in the Montview League, averaging 26.7 points and 7.9 assists per game. She also had 12 rebounds a contest to be one of the top all-around players in the area. She was Montview League MVP.
LESLIE RIVERA, Workman, Freshman, Guard
Rivera was one half of the Lobos’ dynamic duo that also included freshman Alize Williams. She helped Workman to one of its better seasons in recent memory, which included a 24-5 record and the Montview League title. She earned first team All-Montview League after averaging 9.3 points and 5.6 assists a game. She also had 3.9 steals per contest.
ALIZE WILLIAMS, Workman, Freshman, Forward
Williams was the inside option of the Lobos’ dynamic freshmen duo that also included Leslie Rivera. Williams put in 15 points and 7.9 rebounds to help Workman go 24-5 and win the Montview League title. She was first team All-Montview League.
YEWANDE ALABI, Diamond Bar, Senior, Center
Alabi was one of the area’s top post players. She was dominate inside, ranking among the Hacienda League leaders in scoring and rebounds. She was first team All-Hacienda League.

SECOND TEAM
Taj Lark, Diamond Ranch, Sr.
Amanda Britt, West Covina, Sr.
Dy’mond Mitchell, San Dimas, So.
Kaelyn Kawamoto, Wilson, Jr.
Marisol Chavez, Baldwin Park, So
Jackie Richetson, Ayala, So.
Imani Payton, South Hills, Sr.
Dominique Theus, Covina, Jr.
Janessa Thropay, Chino Hills, Fr.
Leeah Powell, Bishop Amat, Sr.

SGVN TOP 10
1. Bishop Amat (25-10)
2. Bonita (25-7)
3. Workman (24-5)
4. Diamond Ranch (21-8)
5. Wilson (22-7)
6. Ayala (19-9)
7. Duarte (22-3)
8. Rosemead (20-7)
9. Glendora (19-10)
10. South Hills (16-12)

La Puente High pitcher Ethan Etchabarren on his way to a 3-1 win over Bassett High at the Olympians’ campus field April 16, 2013.
(SGVN/Staff photo by Leo Jarzomb)

By Steve Ramirez
Staff Writer
LA PUENTE – There was nothing complex about the La Puente High School’s key to victory Tuesday.
The Warriors slugged three doubles during the first 11 pitches they saw, then rode the arm of pitcher Ethan Ethchabarren en route to 3-1 win over host Bassett in a Montview League game.
La Puente, getting RBI doubles from Etchabarren and Joel Serna, stayed atop the league standings after improving to 7-8 overall and 6-1 in league play. Etchebarren gave up three hits and stuck out seven.
Otoniel Solis had a RBI for the Olympians, who slipped to 5-6 and 3-4. The Olympians’ Frank Villanueva gave up six hits and struck out two.
“He knows how to pitch,” La Puente coach Javier Fierro said of Etchabarren. “He wasn’t his best. He had trouble adjusting to the wind, but he understands how to make them hit the ball off balance and get them out. We’re lucky to have him.”
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Staff photo by Watchara Phomicinda

Here’s this week’s baseball rankings:
1. Bonita (16-2) – Coach John Knott said before the season that it would take time for the Bearcats to jell. They have and look to be as good as ever. This is definitely team that could challenge for a repeat.
2. South Hills (14-4) – Adrian DeHorta is becoming the Huskies’ stopper, leading the way in a victory over Claremont that put South Hills atop the Sierra League. But for CIF-SS playoff success, they’ll need another pitcher. Can they find him?
3. Northview (14-3) – Be wary of the Vikings, who looked like a Division 4 title contender after pushing Bonita to the limit last Thursday. But first are the rough challenges of the Valle Vista League, which includes four teams ranked in the area top 10.
4. Nogales (14-3) – The Nobles took a step back, losing to two to San Dimas. Can they bounce back?
5. Diamond Bar (14-2) – The Brahmas have looked good all season. Their real test comes at the end of the regular season when they get a home and home vs. Bonita. I can’t wait.
6. Glendora (13-5) – The Tartans look as strong as ever, challenging in the Baseline. They need to take care of business before closing the season with a series against Los Osos.
7. San Dimas (13-5) – The Saints made a statement last week, sweeping Nogales. But they still have Northview to deal with in the coming weeks.
8. Baldwin Park (12-4) – The Braves just won’t go away. They swept Covina to stay in the Valle Vista hunt.
9. Claremont (8-6) – The record isn’t the best, but the Wolfpack has the look of the second-best team in the Sierra behind South Hills right now, which is saying something.
10. Bishop Amat (6-10) – It’s all downhill for the Lancers, who opened Del Rey League play against Serra. Can they recover?