By Eric Terrazas, Staff Writer

SANTA FE SPRINGS – St. Paul High School senior quarterback Paul Telles has come a long way since winning the starting job as a sophomore.

Telles is now hoping to finish his prep career on a high note. St.Paul opens its season at 7 p.m. on Friday at La Mirada.

“The first game is crucial for our season,” Telles said. “If we come out victorious, I believe we can beat anyone. We’re looking really good right now and I think we can beat anybody.

“(Monday’s) practice went very good. Every day is a crucial step for our preparation – for us to get better individually and as a team. With each day we look to get better and hopefully by Friday, we’ll be in perfect form.”

Telles believes his leadership skills have grown in his three seasons as St.Paul’s starting quarterback.

“Going into my senior year, I believe I developed into a leader that my team can depend on during crucial game situations,” Telles said. “I have built friendships on this team, especially with the linemen. And I owe my gratitude to them. They have done the dirty work for me to be successful. I’ve grown not only as a player but as a person.”

St. Paul head coach Elijah Asante said of Telles: “He brings maturity and veteran leadership. He’s like a compass – he never loses direction. He’s always calm. He is our leader.”

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