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Volume 2 Issue 1 September 2006 David A. Amador Publisher Daryl Gonzales Sportswriter Marc Rios HSSM Webmaster Jason O. Martinez B.B.A., C.P.T. HSSM Columnist Emails hssmonline@yahoo.com Web www.hssmonline.net HSSM Online Photos www.hssm.photoreflect.com HSSM Online Subscriptions www.hssmonline.net Office Phone 956-739-3362 956-971-0185 fx All stories and photos published by High School Sports Magazine may not be reprinted without written permission. Stories may be submitted for consideration in the upcoming issues. High School Sports Magazine prints 13 issues annually beginning in August and ending in July. Mail all inquiries to: High School Sports Magazine 5111 North 10th No.329 McAllen, Texas 78504 Copyright protected 2006.
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2006 Rio Grande Valley H.S. Football
Week by Week Schedules 31-1A, 32-2A, 32-3A, 31-3A, 32-4A, 30-5A, 31-5A, 32-5A Sept. 14 Non-district Harlingen South at Brownsville Hanna, 7:30 p.m. Brownsville Rivera at PSJA North, 7 p.m. La Feria at Weslaco East, 7 p.m. Sept. 15 Non-district Donna at Weslaco High, 7:30 p.m. Corpus Christi Calallen at La Joya, 7:30 p.m. McAllen Memorial at Brownsville Pace, 7:30 p.m. McAllen Rowe at Mission High, 7:30 p.m. Brownsville Porter at Rio Grande City, 7:30 p.m. Sharyland at Edinburg High, 7:30 p.m. Harlingen High at San Benito, 7:30 p.m. Los Fresnos at PSJA High, 7:30 p.m. Brownsville Lopez at Mercedes, 7:30 p.m. Edcouch-Elsa at Hidalgo, 7:30 p.m. Brownsville Lopez at Mercedes, 7:30 p.m. Zapata at Roma, 7:30 p.m. Valley View at Rio Hondo, 7:30 p.m. Corpus Christi West Oso at Port Isabel, 7:30 p.m. Progreso at MMA, 7:30 p.m. Santa Rosa at Lyford, 7:30 p.m. St. Joseph at Raymondville, 7:30 p.m. Santa Rosa at Benavides, 7:30 p.m. Monterrey Tech at La Villa, 7:30 p.m. Monterrey Prepa Tec at Santa Maria, 7:30 p.m. Bruni at Riviera, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 16 Non-district McAllen High at Edinburg Economedes, 7 p.m. PSJA Memorial at Mission Veterans Memorial, 7 p.m. Sept. 21 Non-district Monterrey Tech at McAllen High, 7:30 p.m. PSJA Memorial at Brownsville Pace, 7 p.m. Progreso JV at Santa Maria, 7:30 p.m.
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Sept. 22 Non-district PSJA North at Donna, 7:30 p.m. La Joya at Corpus Christi Carroll, 7:30 p.m. PSJA High at McAllen Memorial, 7:30 p.m. McAllen Rowe at Harlingen South, 7:30 p.m. Rio Grande City at Brownsville Hanna, 7:30 p.m. Kingsville High at Sharyland, 7:30 p.m. Edinburg Economedes at Mission Veterans Memorial, 7:30 p.m. Mission High at Edinburg North, 7:30 p.m. Brownsville Lopez at Weslaco East, 7:30 p.m. Weslaco High at Mercedes, 7:30 p.m. Roma at Rio Hondo, 7:30 p.m. Port Isabel at Valley View, 7:30 p.m. Falfurrias at Hidalgo, 7:30 p.m. Santa Rosa at La Feria, 7:30 p.m. Raymondville at Progreso, 7:30 p.m. Crystal City at Zapata, 7:30 p.m. St. Joseph at La Villa, 7:30 p.m. Runge at Bruni, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 28 District 31-5A Edinburg High at PSJA Memorial, 7 p.m. District 32-5A Brownsville Hanna at Weslaco, 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 29 Non-district Lyford at La Feria, 7:30 p.m. Universidad Autonoma de Coahuila at Port Isabel, 7:30 p.m. Rio Hondo at Raymondville, 7:30 p.m. Ingleside at Zapata, 7:30 p.m. MMA at La Villa, 7:30 p.m. Hidalgo at St. Joseph, 7:30 p.m. District 30-5A Rio Grande City at Donna, 7:30 p.m. McAllen Rowe vs. McAllen High, 7:30 p.m. District 31-5A Harlingen High at Edinburg Economedes, 7:30 p.m. Edinburg North at Harlingen South, 7:30 p.m. PSJA North vs. PSJA High, 7:30 p.m. District 32-5A Brownsville Lopez at Los Fresnos, 7:30 p.m. Brownsville Pace at Brownsville Porter, 7:30 p.m. Brownsville Rivera at San Benito, 7:30 p.m. District 32-4A Edcouch-Elsa at Weslaco East, 7:30 p.m. Mercedes at Roma, 7:30 p.m. Valley View at Missin Veterans, 7:30 p.m. Hidalgo at St. Joseph, 7:30 p.m. District 32-2A Santa Rosa at Premont, 7:30 p.m.
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Sept. 30 Non-district Bruni vs. Nueces Canyon at Crystal City, 6 p.m. District 30-5A Sharyland at McAllen Memorial, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 District 31-5A PSJA High at Edinburg North, 7 p.m. District 32-5A San Benito at Brownsville Lopez, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6 Non-district South San Antonio at EdcouchElsa, 7:30 p.m. Raymondville at Hidalgo, 7:30 p.m. Port Isabel at Zapata, 7:30 p.m. Progreso at Lyford, 7:30 p.m. Rio Hondo at St. Joseph, 7:30 p.m. District 30-5A Donna at McAllen High, 7:30 p.m. McAllen Rowe at La Joya, 7:30 p.m. McAllen Memorial at Rio Grande City, 7:30 p.m. District 31-5A Edinburg Economedes vs. Edinburg High, 7:30 p.m. Harlingen South vs. Harlingen High, 7:30 p.m. PSJA Memorial vs. PSJA North, 7:30 p.m. District 32-5A Brownsville Porter vs. Brownsville Rivera, 7:30 p.m. District 32-4A Mission Veterans Memorial at Mercedes, 7:30 p.m. Roma at Mission High, 7:30 p.m. Weslaco East at Valley View, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 7 District 32-5A Los Fresnos at Brownsville Hanna, 2 p.m. Weslaco High at Brownsville Pace, 7:30 p.m.
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2006 FOOT McAllen, Texas-The race is on as Rio Grande Valley teams huddled up with plays that will take their team to the next level: the state playoffs. More than 240 players from across the Rio Grande Valley all gathered at the Weslaco Bobby Lackey Stadium to attend High School Sports Magazine’s 2nd Annual Photoday. Teams from Raymondville, Port Isabel, and as far as Rio Grande City made the trip on May 20th to get their photos taken for “TDDAVE’s High School Sports Magazine’s 2006 Football Preview. “This is a great annual event for Valley schools to
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PRE
attend with their football players,” said head coach Rob Vela of Edinburg H.S. While teams were having their p taken by sportswriter and photographer David A. Amad “TDDAVE”, many coaches were wondering what the n realignments might create. “Our 31-5A District will be of the toughest and most competitive in the state,” says
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HSSM Predictions 2006 PLAYOFF TEAMS
by David A. Amador, HSSM Sportswriter
TBALL
EVIEW
bert photos dor or new e one s Vela.
“With the addition of both Harlingen schools, it should prove to be exciting on game night.” District 31-5A will be comprised of Harlingen, Harlingen South, plus three Edinburg schools, along with all three PSJA schools in 2006. Players were able to get a sneak peek of two of the best
Cont’ on Pg 10
32-5A 32-4A 1. LOS FRESNOS 1. ED-ELSA 2. WESLACO 2. MS VETERANS 3. SAN BENITO 3. MERCEDES 4. BRO LOPEZ 31-5A 31-3A 1. PSJA 1. RAYMONDVILLE 2. HARLINGEN 2. FALFURRIAS 3. EDINBURG 3. ZAPATA 4. PSJA NORTH 32-3A 30-5A 1. PORT ISABEL 1. MCA MEM 2. HIDALGO 2. LA JOYA 3. RIO HONDO 3. SHARYLAND 4. RIO GRANDE CITY 32-2A AWARD WINNERS 1. BRUNI MOST VALUABLE PLAYER 2. FREER BRADLEY STEPHENS 3. SANTA ROSA RB MCA MEMORIAL,SR 32-1A 1. LA VILLA DEFENSIVE PLAYER MVP 2. RIVIERA JUSTIN SPRINGER DE LOS FRESNOS, SR 3. BEN BOLT OFFENSIVE PLAYER MVP QUARTERBACK PLAYER MVP
JEREMY SPRINGER
LOS FRESNOS, SR
JUAN MARTINEZ RB LA JOYA HS, SR
COACH OF THE YEAR
SCOTT FORD
LOS FRESNOS H.S. 2ND SEASON
HSSMONLINE net Get updated HSSM scores and stats all season long at www.HSSMonline.net
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Bradley Stephens- RB McAllen Memorial Mustangs Size: 5’11 195lbs
Total Career Rushing Yards:
5,257 3 seasons
2005
State 5A
Rushing Champion
running backs in the state. McAllen Memorial’s Bradley Stephens and La Joya’s Juan Martinez. Bradley led all State 5A rushers with more than 2,622 in 11 games and with 5,257 career yards, he needs 279 yards to break Brownsville Hanna’s Tony Ellis mark of 5,535 yards. He also has scored 75 rushing touchdowns in three seasons. Martinez, on the other hand has netted some 2,900 yards rushing in two seasons, but he was stopped short in 2005 with a shoulder injury after eight games and 1, 839 yards. Both backs will be competing in the same 30-5A District and the anticipated match up between La Joya vs McAllen Memorial will take place again, at Coyote Stadium on October 20th at 7:30 p.m. Three more HSSM player spotlights focus on identical twins, Jeremy and Justin Springer from Los Fresnos and Weslaco’s Mishak Rivas. The Springer twins both stand a towering 6’4” and both weight about 220lbs. Jeremy will lead the Falcons at Quarterback, while Justin will play on defense. Both players are seniors and maintain a near perfect 4.0 GPA in the classroom. Both players should give Los Fresnos solid senior leadership. Running back Mishak Rivas, a junior, made his first State 5A appearance at the Track and Field Championships in May. He placed fourth in the long jump and his 1600 4x relay team finished eighth. At running back, Rivas rushed for 1,240 yards and found his way into the end zone 18 times. What’s ironic is that both teams met in the State 5A Division II playoffs in 2005, with the Falcons winning in overtime 44-41. Now, both teams will face each other, but this time in District 32-5A. The Falcons will travel to Panther Stadium in their season finale on November 10th.
Juan Martinez- RB La Joya Coyotes Size: 5’11 205lbs
Total Career Rushing Yards:
2,839
2 seasons
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Rey Perez
1
Rey Cantu
Rocky Rodriguez
Justin Vargas
La Villa
Cardinals
“Moving down to 32-1A will put us in the running for a district title. We return an experienced back field.” -Salinas
32-1A
Andrew Perez
F. Villarreal
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 7-5 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 4-1, 2nd MASCOT: CARDINALS HEAD COACH: JOE SALINAS, 2nd RETURN STARTERS: 15 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss in Class 2A Division II area finals to Schulenberg 49-20 HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 1st
The La Villa Cardinals had a great season in 2005 and now that they drop down to 1A football they have become one of the states’ top picks. The Cardinals will be returning both of their leading rushers from 05’, Rey Perez (5’7, 4.63) and Rey Cantu (5’10, 4.8). The duo each rushed for over 1,000 yards last season, Cantu was named 32-2A Player of the Year. Other players returning are TE/ DE Johnny Reyna returns as a threat on both sides of the ball along side C/NG Leroy Rodriguez, FS/ WR Rocky Rodriguez and QB/CB J.D. Cisneros. Reyna returns from a stellar season that garnered him first-team all-district honors on both sides of the ball. The Cardinals experienced new highs in 05’, and look to build on their past success. “Our players have been dedicated and we hope to make another run at the state playoffs,” says Salinas.
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Santa Maria
Cougars
32-1A FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 5-5 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 1-3, 4TH MASCOT: COUGARS HEAD COACH: RUDY MEZA, 1st yr
RETURN STARTERS: 14 With another head coach leaving the Cougar program, hopes of building a solid system remains hopeful with first LAST PLAYOFF: NONE year head coach Rudy Mesa, who plans on continuing the new sense of attitude in the program. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 3rd In the school’s first varsity season in awhile, the team broke even on the season at 5-5 overall. Players to watch for the Cougars are OL/DL Danny Zuniga (6’6, 300, 5.3), RB/LB Carlos Naranjo (5’10, 160, 4.8, RB/LB Jaime Perez (5’9, 140, 4.8) and LB/RB Andrew De la Rosa (5’8, 150, 4.7). Naranjo rushed for 600 yards while De la Rosa had 50 tackles, respectively. Quarterback Manny Villarreal (5’10, 180, 4.9) will be returning from a season when he completed 40 passes for 830 yards and 15 last year at .500 and 1-3 TDs. The Cougars still have a lot of growing to in district play. Can Mesa do if they plan on experiencing the postseason turn things around in this for the first time, the experience returning should tiny community of less than aid in making it a reality. The Cougars will open 300 that sits along the Rio their season against Riviera-Kaufer H.S. on Grande river? Can Mesa September 8th and then meet Monterrey Tech, make the drive each day followed by the Progreso J.V. After meeting on Military Highway with Agua Dulce on Friday, October 13th, hopefully patience? These 32-1A Santa bad luck will not carry over to their meeting Maria Cougars are ready for with state-ranked La Villa on October 20th. some longtime leadership. The Cougars did manage to finish the season
Danny Zuniga
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
32-2A
New head coach “Tuffy” Martinez will lead the Santa Rosa Warriors with high expectations. “We will surprise.” says Martinez.
1
Santa Rosa
Warriors “This will be an exciting year for our players in Santa Rosa. We are hungry and dedicated. Teams will be surprised in 32-2A in 2006 with the Santa Rosa Warriors,” --Martinez
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 3-7 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 3-3, 4th MASCOT: PANTHERS HEAD COACH: TUFFY MARTINEZ RETURN STARTERS: 15 LAST PLAYOFF: NONE HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 3rd
Former defensive coordinator from Los Fresnos H.S. Tuffy Martinez is the new athletic director and football head coach at Santa Rosa High School. Martinez brings a string of winning traditions dating back to his high school days at Port Isabel and to his winning days at Hidalgo, where he led his Pirates to the state playoffs on numerous of occasions. The Santa Rosa Warriors will be returning 22 lettermen while losing five from winning a mere three games during the 05’ season. The Warriors will need to capitalize on the experience if they plan on changing things this season. Returning under center will be Savian Zuniga (6’0, 175); he led the Warriors to three district victories in 2005. Zuniga will need to be the leader on a fairly young and new offense. Running back Larry Gonzalez (5’8, 155) will need to fill in the gap left from the departure of the teams leading rusher in 05’, Xavier Flores. Leading the way for the Warrior defense will be Raul Garza (5’7, 160) at linebacker, he will bring his experience to a fairly young team. The Warriors look to improve from their 05’ season, returning lettermen might be the key to getting Warriors back to the playoffs. The Warriors host La Villa in their annual “Sugar Bowl” on Friday, September 8th.
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
32-3A
Tarpon players pictured l-r are James Delgado, Israel Vasquez, David Alaniz, and Ralph Valdez. (HSSM Photo)
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Port Isabel
Tarpons “Our expectations are always to try and win a state championship.”--Stumbaugh
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 5-7 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 4-2, 3RD MASCOT: TARPONS HEAD COACH: MONTY STUMBAUGH RETURN STARTERS: 10
LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to Devine 42-13 in Class 3A Div II Area finals Many were beginning to count out the Port Isabel Tarpons as they began the season 0-4, but Monty Stumbaugh proved everyone wrong once they turned things around during district to continue their postseason streak alive. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 1st The team still managed to deliver on a two-game deep performance in the post season, but the Tarpons will be looking a lot better than last season head coach Stumbaugh commented. Stumbaugh’s team will be returning most of their offensive line, which is an important ingredient to PI’s successful runs in the past. The hogs up front for the Tarpons will likely be Faustino Camacho (6’1, 215, 5.2), Ruben Lopez, Jesus Alvarez and Zach Tamayo. OL Camacho delivered last season on a respectable 60 pancake blocks. The line will be key to three-year starter running back/linebacker Ralph Valdez’s success. The RB/LB racked up 656 yards and brought down 50 along with 4 sacks during his junior campaign. Other than Valdez returning on the defensive side, the Tarpons will be relying on TE/DE Gustavo Alvarez (5’10, 205, 4.7), junior www.hssmOnline.net WR/DB James Delgado (6’1, 170, 4.6), DE R.J. Villarreal, WR/DB Gilmore Flores, DB/QB Clemente Valdez, DB Jose Badillo and DT Jason Dutton.
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
32-3A
Pirate players pictured l-r are Luis Pedraza, Charlie Garza, Oscar Perez, Danny Lopez, and Jese Escalante. (HSSM Photo)
2
Hidalgo
Pirates
“I’m looking forward to this season, I feel that if FOR THE RECORD we stay healthy we should 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 7-5 repeat on another playoff 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 5-1, 2nd appearance.”--Pena
MASCOT: PIRATES The Hidalgo Pirates had a great run at the playoffs last season, HEAD COACH: JORGE PENA, 2nd yr taking the runner-up position. Pirate head coach Jorge Pena feels that he has a good amount of talent returning from last RETURN STARTERS: 13 season, but it will be the ability to stay healthy will be key in LAST PLAYOFF: Regional finals loss returning to the postseason. Offensive threat returning for the to Hondo 55-45 in 2005 Pirates will be senior running back Jesus Olivera (6’0, 210, HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 4.8) who had a respectable outing last time around notching a 2ND 700 yard performance on the ground. “It is great to have Jesus returning, he is one of the best running backs in the area in my opinion,” Pena commented. Pena said that he feels that the offensive line will be the strong point on the offense because of their experience and hard work they’ve put in this offseason. Commanding the offensive line will be left tackle Danny Lopez (6’0, 200, 4.8) in his final season along side RT Luis Pedraza (5’10, 220, 5.2) and RG Roy Santana (6’0, 220, 5.3). Linebacker Mike Grajeda (5’10, 189, 4.7) had a notable performance notching 90 tackles and recording 12 tackles for losses. The Pirate defense will be returning seven on defense. Also returning are DE Edwardo Pablosvelez (5’11, 185, 4.7) and DT Benito Cantu. The Pirates will test themselves early on with Mercedes in their district opener followed by a rival game against Valley View HS, and then they will host Edcouch-Elsa www.hssmOnline.net on September 15th and Falfurrias on September 22nd. Their first district game will be against Rio Hondo on October 20th at home. www.hssmOnline.net
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
32-3A
Bobcat members pictured l-r are JD Martinez, James Boen, Eric Gantt, Robbie Meza, Josque Vasquez, and Manny Montemayor. (HSSM Photo)
3
Rio Hondo
Bobcats “I think that if we stay healthy, we should have a chance of being better than we were last year.”--Cavazos
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 9-2 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 6-0, 1ST MASCOT: BOBCATS HEAD COACH: GUS CAVAZOS, 3rd yr RETURN STARTERS: 11 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 Regional finalist loss to Ingleside 38-19 HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 3RD
The Rio Hondo Bobcats dominated 32-3A district play last season and if the comments head coach Cavazos said about his team this season are accurate, they may repeat as champions. QB Aaron Garza (5’9, 165, 4.7) led the Bobcats to the area round of the postseason last time out, finishing the season with (31-72-4-575, 9 TDs), also returning primary wide receiver Shane Eizember (6’0, 165, 4.7). Adding to the firepower is running back Robbie Mesa who stacked up 1,300 yards on 136 carries with 17 TDs, en route to becoming 32-3A’s 2005 District Offensive MVP. The defense will be just as strong as last season’s that allowed a mere 92 points all season. Linebackers Eric Gantt (5’7, 165, 4.6) and Eric Jaime will take charge of the defense that was stout last season. Gantt finished the season with 90 tackles, earning him first team honors, unanimously. Coach Cavazos said that 8 or 9 or their projected starts on defense run a 4.8-40 or faster, so they should have a different look on that side of the ball from last season.
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La Feria
Lions
32-3A
The La Feria Lions just missed out on the post season in 05’, but the Lions might have what it takes to make another emergence this year around. Lions’ running back Tomas Tovar (5’7, 180, 4.5) was a big part in helping his team win four games last season. Tovar took charge of the offense throwing for 504 yards as well as rushing for 600.
“Tomas can do it all, he will can throw, run and catch the ball if we need him to,” said Valdez. QB Eleazar Esquivel was under center when Tovar lined up in the backfield, he will be asked to be the play caller this season. He will be responsible in keeping the Lion offense equally balanced with the run and pass, something that hurt the team in 05’. “Eleazar will be our quarterback this season, he will bring some experience from last season,” Valdez added. The Lion defense that ranked third in the state will depend the experience of first team all-district SS Jaime Rodriguez who recorded 42 while DB Alex Lopez had four picks in 05’. Other notable lettermen are DB Adrian Torres, DE Mark Conde and LB Troy Cox. “Defensively we’re solid,” commented Valdez. Kicker Chris Cantu will be the key to having the Lions making the postseason. Last season two district games losses were decided by an extra point that kept La Feria home during the playoffs.
Progreso
RedAnts
Now in his third season, the Elvis is still not alive. Not too many good things can come out of a 0-10 season, but the Progreso Red Ants will have as good of chance as any due in part to some key returning starters. “I think that our guys are really dedicating their time to becoming better,” Elvis
Hernandez commented. “We really have a good group of guys that are breaking away from old habits, and really taking advantage of period before the season to prepare.” Leading the Red Ants this season will be junior running back Norberto Ontiveros. He rushed for 955 yards and score one in seven outing his sophomore campaign. “ Norbert (Ontiveros) has been working hard, he is getting faster and stronger,” he added. Calling the plays for Progreso will be quarterback Fidel Salazar (5’7, 165, 4.8), he threw for 550 yards, respectively. If the Red Ants hope to battle for a post season spot, they will need to do some improvements to a defense that allowed 307 points last season. Notable returning starters are defensive ends Javier Hernandez and Randy Flores and Linebacker Marcelo Garcia. The Red Ants last playoff appearance was in 1990, a 27-0 loss to Freer in the first round.
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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Raymondville
Bearkats “I’m glad to be back in Raymondville, I know that the guys we have right now are going to play hard and give me their best.”--Leal
31-3A
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 1-9 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 1-6, 5TH MASCOT: BEARKATS HEAD COACH: ALEX LEAL, 1st year RETURN STARTERS: 12 LAST PLAYOFF: Class 3A Division II loss to Orange Grove 28-7 in 2002. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 1st
HSSM PHOTOS
Raymondville Bearkats switch captains during the offseason since the lack luster season displayed in recent years. No stranger to the area or the program, Alex Leal took over as the athletic director and head football coach. Leal’s last stint in Raymondville as the head skipper was from 1973-79, where he finished with a respectable 54-16-3 overall record. Much has changed since those days, but if you can do it once, you can do it again. The Bearkats have a stud in their quarterback Carlo Dominguez (6’3, 185, 4.6); the kid is a Peyton Manning type passer in the pocket but can turn on the jets if forced out. He will be most exciting to watch on Friday nights as he leads his team on the field. Coach Leal has inherited a young team that has struggled in the past few years, going 1-6 in district in their most recent season. Leal feels that his very young team lies well in the arms of Dominguez, as long he can stay healthy. Dominguez finished the season (97189-6, 1,162, 7 TDs), respectively. The Bearkats will be returning nine starters on offense, Dominguez will have handful of weapons to go to when needed. Running back Andrew Hernandez (5’8, 4.6) played got some playing time in last season, and that experience will be key to offensive running game. The returning QB will have offensive linemen Carnelio Arreallan (6’4) and D.J. Rodriguez (6’3, 5.2) will be keeping the lanes clear if their stud play caller decides to turn on the jets. Mac Medina Andrew Hernandez Cornelio Arredondo
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
32-4A
“Men in Black” pictured kneeling l-r are Mark Cardenas, Eddie Rangel, Orlando Loredo, Ronnie Villapando, Ventura Guerra, and Zeke Torres. Back l-r are JJ De Luna, Eric Fox, George Rubio, Hugo Mendoza, Fernando Torres, Jerry Galvan, and Felix Arjona. (HSSM Photo)
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Edcouch-Elsa
Yellowjackets “We’re really looking forward to the season baring any critical injuries; I feel that we’re going to be even more competitive that we were last year.” --Solis
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 12-1 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 7-0, 1st MASCOT: YELLOWJACKETS HEAD COACH: JOE SOLIS, 4th yr RETURN STARTERS: 15 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to New Braunfels Canyon in Class 4A Div II Quarterfinals 38-10 game.
What can be said about the Edcouch-Elsa Yellow Jackets other than they have been dominating the 32-4A district scene for about a good half a decade. Now HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 1st under the reigns of head coach Joe Solis for the past two seasons La Maquina is 23-2 and reached the regional semifinals in their last outing. Quarterback George Rubio (5’10, 160, 4.7) who also finished the season 110-161 completions with 6 interceptions for 1,600 yards and 28 touchdowns returns. Rubio’s contributions to the team didn’t end there as he also rumbled down the field for over 1,000 yards rushing. “We’re really excited to have George coming back this season. He’s a double threat that brings an advantage to our team,” added Solis. In addition to Rubio’s countless offensive, running back Ronnie Villapando (5’7, 160, 4.6) will return for his junior campaign. Last season, Villapando rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored 19 TDs. On defense, Mark Cardenas returns after finishing fourth in 4A football with nine interceptions. Also returning in the defensive back field to help is senior Zeke Torres (5’9, 170, 4.6). La Maquina has won 26 consecutive regular season games, just a mere three shy of Port Isabel’s 29-straight.
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
32-4A
The Patriots are all business in 2006 with hopes of making another playoff appearance. (HSSM Photo)
2
FOR THE RECORD
Mission Veterans
Patriots
“We should have some great talent on the team this season, we just need to get the most of it.”--Longoria
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 4-6 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 3-4, 4th MASCOT: PATRIOTS HEAD COACH: CARLOS LONGORIA RETURN STARTERS: 10 LAST PLAYOFF: 2004 loss to Gregory Portland 77-0 in Class 4A Div II Bi-District game. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 2nd
The Mission Vets’ are only returning four on an offense that will be led by Julio Smith at quarterback. In seven games, Smith connected with receivers 106 times for 1,348 yards and eight TDs. He will need to become more accurate after throwing 18 INTs if they expect deliver another playoff appearance. Adding more protection will be offensive linemen Edgar Banda (5’10, 258, 5.1), Modesto Padilla (6’1, 315, 5.0) and Rick Quintanilla should provide some addition support to give Smith more time in the pocket. Sophomore running back Gilbert Hernandez (5’7, 155, 4.78). “I’m really excited about the offensive line that we have this season. They are led Mo’ (Padilla) who has a lot of experience.” The Patriots should have a solid D’ line that will be led by senior defensive end Rufino Gutierrez (6’4, 215, 4.78) will also be joined by defensive tackles Ramon Rodriguez and Diego Morales. Rick Arellano, Rick Valverde and Jobim Zapico are all notable line backers. Arellano completed the 2005 season with 88 tackles, three sacks and four caused fumbles. The Pats open at McAllen Nikki Rowe on Sept. 9th before traveling to Mercedes for their district opener on October 6th.
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Sammy Ramirez
3
AC Chapa
32-4A
Jesus Herrera
Albert Gomez
Jacob Martinez
Lupe Perez
Mercedes H.S.
Tigers
“This will be our season to play to the highest of expectations. We will contend for the title.” --Leal
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 5-5 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 3-4, 4th MASCOT: TIGERS HEAD COACH:GILBERT LEAL, 2nd yr RETURN STARTERS: 6 LAST PLAYOFF: No playoff appearances from 2000-2005.
The Tigers finished last season just outside the playoff picture, but the departure HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 3rd of last season’s second place team the PSJA Memorial, might have the Tigers experiencing the ambiance of the post season for the first time in a real long time. The Tigers’ offense lost all but two players from last season on the offensive side, so most of the weight will be placed upon the shoulders of QB Marco De la Rosa. De la Rosa finished the ’05 campaign with a mere 223 yards through the air. He will be leading an offense that lost most of its main cogs from the 05’ campaign. On defense, free safety Amador Chapa (5’11, 170, 4.5) returns with a state leading 12 interceptions. Also returning is linebackers Andy Mata (5’8, 165, 4.7), Lupe Perez and Jaime Mata, Perez notched a 65-tackle performance as a junior. “Our strength this year will have to lie with the backers, secondary and the kicking core,” Leal added. www.hssmOnline.net
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
32-4A
Something to smile about. The Weslaco East Wildcats could be headed towards their first ever post season berth. (HSSM photo)
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Weslaco East H.S.
FOR THE RECORD
Wildcats
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 2-8 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 2-5, 5th MASCOT: WILDCATS
“I’m really excited about the upcoming season, I think that we have a good shot at making a playoff run.” --Cuellar
RETURN STARTERS: 13
HEAD COACH: ARMANDO CUELLAR LAST PLAYOFF: NONE
The Weslaco East Wildcats have many good things to look forward to this coming season; one being that the possibility of making the postseason has increased and the HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 4th other is valuable experience, especially at the quarterback position. “Even though we have seen two of the three playoff teams from last season leave the district, we expect games to remain very competitive,” Cuellar commented. “We are going to need some leadership form the guys returning on offense to spark things up there. Junior QB Jaysun Boswell threw for 394 yards on 31 completions for two TDs in a mere six games. That kind of experience gained during the 2005 season should add an upper hand heading into the upcoming season. At Boswell’s side will be running back Jesse Marines who rushed for 262 yards and scored four TDs while also caught 15 passes for 216 yards and three TDs. The Wildcats defense will have six vacant positions from last season, but defensive back Sergio Dominguez (6’0, 150, 4.8) will help captain alongside linebacker Jesse de la Rosa who finished the season with 51 tackles. Last season the Wildcats had some opportunities to find some more wins during district, but unfortunately football is a game of skill and luck. The Wildcats open with 32-3A Rio Hondo and then travel to Brownsville Porter on September 7th, followed by La Feria and Brownsville Lopez. Both Lopez and Rio Hondo were playoff teams from 2005. On September 29th the Wildcats will host Edcouch-Elsa in their district opener. This will be the www.hssmOnline.net Yellowjackets second trip to Bobby Lackey Football Stadium in 2006. Look for a much imprived Wildcat football team in 2006.
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Mission H.S.
Eagles
“I think we should have a great shot at making the playoffs with the number of returning starters coming back.” --Lee
32-4A
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 3-7 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 3-4, 4th MASCOT: EAGLES HEAD COACH: TOM LEE, 4th yr RETURN STARTERS: 16 LAST PLAYOFF: 2002 loss to CC FLOUR BLUFF 13-6 in Class 4A Div II Quarterfinals game.
Thomas Lee and the Eagles recorded only three wins last season; the good thing HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 5th is that they were all recorded against district foes. The Eagles are looking good returning eight on each side of the ball from last season. On Offense, seniors running back Raul Cordova (5’8, 180, 4.85) and second team all-district wide receiver Joshua Cedillo (5’8, 145, 4.8) will do their best to make their final run a success. Cordova rushed for 500 yards in seven games before being sidelined with an injury. Also returning for the Eagles is quarterback Nathan Salazar (5’10, 165, 4.5) who was selected as the 2005 32-4A Newcomer of the Year. “We’re going to try and keep it an even 50/50 with our running and passing on offense,” added Lee. The Eagle offensive line will be led by junior Alex Vera (6’3, 335) and sophomore Jesus Alvarez (6’2, 260, 5.5); Cesar Chavez, Arturo Garces will also be needed up front. The Eagle defense will also be returning eight from the 05’ season. Senior defensive end Albert Alcantar (5’10, 205, 5.0), line backers Elias Torres and Lupe Barrera should also bring some well needed experience from last season. Torres finished last season with 61 tackles, respectively. “We will need to find new guys on the defensive line since we are returning just about most of the starters,” Lee commented.
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Roma H.S.
Gladiators “We believe that we are going to be in the thick of things this season, I feel that this is the season that our program turns things around.”--Cavazos
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 0-10 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 0-7, 6th MASCOT: GLADIATORS HEAD COACH:CRIS CAVAZOS, 3rd yr RETURN STARTERS: 17 LAST PLAYOFF: NONE
This might be the year that the Roma Gladiators end the reign of falling short HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 6th of postseason play. Though the Gladiators will be returning from a 0-10 season, they will also be returning eight guys on offense and nine on defense, which might make the 06’ season sway their way. A major key to the Gladiators success this season will have to fall into the hands of returning QB Mario Garcia (5’11, 165, 4.9) who recorded 1,623 yards through the air last season. “This season we are going to move away from just throwing the ball, we want to be able to sway things around on offense,” Cavazos said. “We’re still going to throw the ball, but we have a package that will enable us to run the ball 60 or 70 percent of the time,” he added. If the running game can perform well throughout the entire season, especially in district, the team should have enough to secure a school first of reaching the post season. RB Eusebio Lopez (5’9, 170, 4.7) ran for 689 yards in 05’, but more will be needed from him if the team is going to move away from last season’s winless record. Other notable players on offense are WR Eddie Moreno, WR Ronnie Garza, FB Jorge Perez and WR Horacio Guerra. “Eusebio was part of our sprint relay team last season, so he’s just the right guy for the spot,” said Cavazos. The Gladiator’s defense will be led by LB Jerry Canales (5’10, 180, 5.0) who was the team’s leading tackler last season. Canales will be accompanied by SS Julio Egula (5’11, 170, 5’8) who has significant knowledge under his belt. The two will be joined by CB Angel Garcia, SS Herbie Pena, CB Marcos Barera, DE Luis Garcia, LB Mario Gonzalez, LB Joshua Maldonado and DE Saul Vela. “Our defense should be stronger this season with more experience under their belts,” Cavazos said. “The linebackers and secondary are more of our solid points on defense, thanks to experience.” www.hssmOnline.net
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Mauro Martinez
7
George Lopez
Luis Garza
Jerry Vasquez
Issac Calvillo
George Lopez
Valley View H.S.
Tigers
“We like to think that we are heading the right direction, but understand that cards are somewhat stacked against us.” -Gonzalez
32-4A
Johnathon Molina
Luis Ayala
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: None 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: None MASCOT: TIGERS HEAD COACH: JOSH GONZALEZ RETURN STARTERS: NONE
LAST PLAYOFF: First year as a varThere is no reason why the Valley View Tigers shouldn’t be taken sity team with an enrollment of less seriously. The Tigers are in their fourth season with a football program at the school, a program that started off 0-8 at the middle school level to than 960 students. 9-1 last season at the junior varsity level. Projected starting quarterback HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 7th Greg Gonzales (5’10, 170, 4.7) who produced some good numbers at the junior varsity level transferred to Hidalgo High School so this will leave the Tigers a huge void. In the backfield, running back Tony Vasquez (5’9, 175, 4.6) should see some action along with tight end Luis Ayala (5’10, 185, 5.0) and WR/QB Luis Garza (5’9, 155, 4.6). The Tigers will be sporting one of the nicest football facilities in the Valley, especially with their new 6,000 seating capacity stadium. The Tigers moved up to 32-4A after posting an open enrollment of 950 plus students, which will make them the smallest 32-4A team competing. Residents will get a chance to see Hidalgo, Port Isabel, Weslaco East, La Feria, Mercedes, and Roma H.S. play at the new Tiger Stadium in this community of less than 4,000. Valley View will also travel to Edcouch-Elsa to face the three-time defending 32-4A champions on Friday, October the 13th. This will be the Tiger’s first year in varsity competition.
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30-5A
2006 McAllen Memorial Mustangs pictured front are Mitchell Bunger, back includes l-r are Bradley Stephens, Mario Aguirre, Robbie Salinas, Rene Surprise, Albert Lozano, and Robbie Jasso. (HSSM Photo)
1
McAllen Memorial
Mustangs
“We are returning a lot of our guys from last season’s playoff team, so we’re have high expectations from this season’s squad.” --Littleton
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 3-2, 3rd MASCOT: MUSTANGS HEAD COACH: BILL LITTLETON RETURN STARTERS: 14 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to Laredo Nixon 32-28 in Class 5A Div II BiDistrict game.
The McAllen Memorial Mustangs will be returning most of their playoff team HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 1st from last season. Senior RB Bradley Stephens who notched 2,633 yards and scored 34 TDs last season will be accompanied by QB Mitchell Bunger who put up 967 yards and eight TDs through the air in 05’. Other notable role players on offense will be FB Nick Moore, WR Scott Schneider, TE Mario Aguirre, C Albert Lozano, offensive tackles Alex Rodriguez, Rene Surprise and Eric Gomez. While the offense attempts to rack up the points that they are used to posting, the Mustang defense led by LB Emory Sweeney (6’1, 200, 4.78) will need to fend off the opposing offense. Sweeney is the returning leading tackler from last season with 111 and three sacks. Other prospective players on defense for the Mustangs will be DB Chris Pallagi (6’2 190, 4.68), DT Joseph Hanks (6’0, 230, 4.85), junior LB Robert Curl (6’2, 190, 4,75), FS Aaron Stephens (5’11, 170, 4.8) and DE Joe Rivera. The Mustangs open at the Alamodome on Saturday, Sept 2nd against Victoria Memorial in Dave Campbell’s Classic. www.hssmOnline.net
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
30-5A
La Joya Coyotes pictured l-r are Josh Torres Javier Acevedo and Cruz Garcia. (HSSM Photo)
2
La Joya
Coyotes
“We feel good about our chances and we think we have the potential to do even better than last season.” --Villasenor
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 9-3 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 5-0, 1st MASCOT: COYOTES HEAD COACH: OSCAR VILLASENOR RETURN STARTERS: 12 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to Harlingen 36-13 in Class 5A Div I Regional final game.
It has almost become too hard to pick the La Joya Coyotes out the district running of HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 2nd late, they single handily ran away with the district title in 05’. Though things might be a little tougher as they only return four on defense, the same defense that slowed the class 5A state leading rusher, Bradley Stephens of McAllen Memorial. The Coyotes return their number one weapon from last season, RB Juan Martinez (5’10, 195, 4.6). Martinez piled on 1,839 yards and 30 touchdowns in eight games due to injury, but a recovered Martinez might have his team holding the district trophy at the end of the season if he can produce similar numbers and stay healthy. Leading the way for the third-team all-state RB will be offensive linemen Josue Resendez (6’3, 305, 5.3), Andy Santos (6’3, 305, 5.2), Isaac Escamilla and Rolando Olivarez. An outstanding performance from Martinez will be ensured if the big guys up front control the line of scrimmage. The defensive performance this season might just determine if the Coyotes will be ahead of everyone just before the postseason begins. Notable prospects on the defensive side are DB Eric Ochoa, linebackers Javier Gallegos and Edgar Garza.
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Mike Smith
3
Joe Willie Leal
Sharyland
Lee Munguia
Mike Sanchez
Rattlers
“This will be a year that expectations are high. With a new field and scoreboard, we are hoping to light it up”--Sanchez
30-5A
Coltynn Williams
David Maldonado
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 7-4 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 4-1, 2nd MASCOT: RATTLERS HEAD COACH: FRED SANCHEZ RETURN STARTERS: 14
LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to Laredo Though the Rattlers lose some key names from last season, United 56-37 in Class 5A Div II Bithe coping process might be short lived with a good number District game. of experienced players on each side of the ball. The Sharyland HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 3rd offense might still be as fierce as ever as it sees the return of RB Toney Baiyeri (5’11, 185, 4.7), WR Willie Rojas and QB Jonathan Sarver and offensive linemen Mike Sanchez. In 2005, Baiyeri notched a 800 yards and nine TDs, while Rojas finished with 256 yards on 14 catches and a pair of TDs. Sarver, returns after connecting with receivers 64 times for 1,050 yards and 10 TDs. Other players to watch on offense are OL Joe Willie Leal (6’1, 250, 5.2), RB Cooper Shockley (5’10, 180, 4.7), FB/LB Josh Villarreal (5’10, 175, 4.9), OL David Maldonado, TE David Adams and WR/DB Steve Saenz. The Rattlers defense will be spear headed by LB Alan Pena, who notched 66 tackles last season that led the squad. Other prospects are SS Coltynn Williams, DB Lee Munguin and DL Gary Bazan. www.hssmOnline.net
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4
Victor Saenz
Leo Lopez
Derrick Lucio
Danny Martinez
Rio Grande City
Rattlers
“The kids have a lot of discipline and are excited about the upcoming season; I know that the expectations are very high.” --Lozano
30-5A
Mike Flores
Andrew Salinas
(HSSM Photos)
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 2-7 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 1-4, 5th MASCOT: RATTLERS HEAD COACH: JESUS LOZANO RETURN STARTERS: 8 LAST PLAYOFF: No Playoff appearances from 2000-2005.
Look out Valley, the Rattler program is alive and doing well. New attitudes and more than 72 players listed on the varsity squad will surprise many 30-5A opponents.The HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 4th Rattler offense will have RB Leo Lopez (5’8, 175, 4.7) returning with experience from last season where he saw limited play. Lopez recorded a mere 200 yards on 50 tough carries with one TD. Coach Lozano said that his offensive line will have some good size that will be led by center Michael Flores. Other notable players on the offense are OT Andrew Salinas (6’1, 340, 5.9), Danny Martinez (5’10, 235, 5.6), sophomore TB Baldemar Garza (5’11, 160, 4.5). On defense, junior LB Teodoro Garza (5’9, 175, 4.7) will be the top player to watch for the Rattlers. Contributing to the mix will be Derik Lucio, Michael Flores, Juan Vasquez, Teodoro Rivera and Victor Ayala. The Rattlers will be the team to watch as they open their season at Edinburg North on Sept. 1st.
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30-5A
The McAllen Bulldogs have posted 10 total wins in the past three seasons with a defense that gives up more than 350 yards per game. (HSSM Photos)
5
McAllen
Bulldogs The McAllen Bulldogs produced a 2-3 district record last season, but an enormous number of players with experience from last season might change all that in 06’. QB Joaquin Hinojosa (5’11, 185, 4.6) heading the Bulldog offense this season. Lending a helping hand this season on offense will be
(HSSM Photos)
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 3-7 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 2-3, 4th MASCOT: BULLDOGS HEAD COACH: TONY HARRIS, 11th RETURN STARTERS: 17 LAST PLAYOFF: No playoff appearances in the past three seasons. Only 10 games won in 3 years. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 5th
junior RB Manny Udor (5’10, 185, 4.6) and sophomore slot back Aaron Correa (5’10, 165, 4.5). Other notable players on offense are OL Chris Olivarez, Oscar Barrera, Ian Blackburn, fullback Anthony Wilkerson, RB Robert Gonzalez and SB Elias Franco. While offenses win games, it will be the defense’s job to win the championships or a district title that some feel is in reach in part to the number of returning starter the Bulldogs have on both sides of the ball. Spear heading the defense will be senior strong safety Justin Rock (6’0, 190, 4.5), who finished last season with 66 tackles. Other notable players on defense are LB Aaron Rodriguez, DL Brandon Ruiz, CB Jeremy Rangel, LB Carlos Cisneros, FS Dan Westfield, CB Sergio Longoria and DL Ben Cortez. If the Bulldogs can at least keep the games close this season, they can count on place kicker Christian Brom (5’6, 155, 4.5) who hit 14 of 16 PATs and 5 of 7 field goals in 05’. www.hssmOnline.net
FOR THE RECORD
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Randy Garcia
6
Eric Macareno
Donna
Frank Cedillo
Daniel Gomez
Redskins
“I’m just happy to get the football season started and I know that the players even more excited to get back into the mix of things.” --Chavez
30-5A
Juan Romero
Lee Mar Bradley
(HSSM Photos)
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 2-8 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 2-4, 5th MASCOT: REDSKINS HEAD COACH: TOM CHAVEZ, 2nd yr RETURN STARTERS: 14 LAST PLAYOFF: 2003 loss to Edinburg Economedes 21-17 in Class 5A Div II Bi-District game.
The Donna Redskins had a tough outing in 05’ but the numbers will be on their side this season as they return most of the offense and a good number of defensive HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 6th faces. Tight end Lee Mar Bradley (6’2, 205, 4.7) and wide receiver Randy Garcia (5’9, 165, 4.6) are the top returning receivers from last season. Bradley had a respectable 42 catches while Garcia had 52 of his own. Other notable returners on offense are offensive tackle Frank Castillo (5’11, 250, 5.1), running back Robert Guzman (5’10, 165, 4.6) and receiver Aaron Jackson (6’0, 190, 4.6). The defense will have two of their top tackles back from a year ago in defensive tackle Raul Cantu (5’11, 250, 5.1) and linebacker Jose Baez (5’11, 202, 4.8). Cantu had 41 tackles, eight quarterback sacks and 11 hurries, while Baez had 46 tackles, 12 sacks and 8 hurries. Other prospective players on defense are LB Kris Alegria, and DE John Cabrera. The two will need some additional help if they hope to look like the Redskins of old, but experience returning might change that as the new season draws near.
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30-5A
The McAllen Nikki Warriors will face another rebuilding season says head coach Gary Lauer. “We are young and our seniors will have to lead the way,” adds Lauer. (HSSM Photos)
7
McAllen Nikki Rowe
Warriors
(HSSM Photos)
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 1-8 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 0-5, 6th MASCOT: WARRIORS HEAD COACH: GARY LAUER, 7th yr
“I think that we have a good core of kids that are excited about RETURN STARTERS: 10 the season, the key is finding some success early.” --Lauer LAST PLAYOFF: 2004 win over Lar-
edo Alexander 35-14 in bi-district The McAllen Nikki Rowe Warriors had only one game that went their Class 5A Div II playoffs. way last season, unfortunately it wasn’t against another district rival. They HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 7th will need to depend on returning veterans and some new faces this year to change things around for the program. Quarterback Mike Enriquez (5’10, 150, 4.7) depended on after his 139 yards rushing and 514 yard air performance in 2005. He will need to be improved upon if his team’s chance at postseason berth will come true. Other prospective players on offense are WR/S Ricky Soto, WR Travis Chafin, G Alex Guajardo and TE Alex Chalk. The Warrior defense for a lack of better work was mediocre at times during the 05’ season is definitely something that will need to end in order to improve from last season. Leading the charge for the Warriors will be DE Mike Flores (6’4, 250, 5.2) that recorded 28 tackles last season. Contributing to the mix on defense will be CB Rosendo Benitez, SS David Chacon, DT Tony Rodriguez and DT Tino Pena. This might be the year the Warriors return back to postseason form but they will have to get past La Joya, McAllen Memorial, Rio Grande City, and Sharyland in District 30-5A. www.hssmOnline.net
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1
31-5A
PSJA
Bears
“Every season we set out to win the district, and this season is no different.”--Rios
Bears Set For Another District Title in 31-5A The PSJA Bears are coming back from a dominating season that Can the PSJA Bears had them cruise to a perfect 6-0 repeat as 31-5A District District record in 31-5A and the outright championship. The Bears Champs? would continue their “Cinderella (HSSM Photo) Season” by going three-deep inti the State 5A Division II playoffs with wins over San Benito, Laredo Nixon, before falling to San Antonio Madison 31-7. Now with the new FOR THE RECORD re-alignment change, PSJA Memorial, Harlingen, and Harlingen South move into 315A. However, with Edinburg and Harlingen nursing quarterback injuries, the Bears have 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 10-3 control of their destiny if they too, can remain healthy before their first 31-5A encounter 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 6-0, 1st with cross-town rival, PSJA North. The Bears open their season with probably one of MASCOT: BEARS the toughest schedules. They first travel to meet Brownsville Rivera, followed by Los Fresnos and McAllen Memorial. The Bears will have their hands full this season as they HEAD COACH: MEL RIOS, 5th yr only return 4/4 starters from last season’s squad. Rios said that he hopes that the guys RETURN STARTERS: 8 that were on the team that didn’t get much starting time step it up. On offense, the Bears LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 Class 5A Diwill still be a force to be reckoned with as they return two top backs. Running backs Marco Garcia (5’10, 190, 4.6) and R.J. Maldonado (5’11, 190, 4.6) will be the one-two vison II Reg Semifinalist. Lost to SA punch for the Bears. Garcia dazzled the spectators last season racking up 1,762 yards on Madison 31-7 200 carries for 15 TDs, while counterpart Maldonado rumbled his way for 740 yards and HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 1st five TDs. “We expect the same output from those guys. They are tremendous athletes that understand we are trying to achieve with the program,” Rios commented. “Marco is a very bright student in the classroom and is very committed on the field, while R.J. is our strong and fast work horse. We plan on giving them the ball as much as possible.” Returning four starters on defense might not make it as tough as believed if the running game of the Bears’ offense can burn up the clock and keep the opposing sides offense off. If it comes down to a defensive stance with DT Adriel Dela Cruz, DT Javier Saldana, LB’s Matthew Vasaldua, Genaro Castillo and CB Gilbert Garza who will all be called upon to take care of business. The Bears have one of the best chances to win the district this season, but depth on the defensive side may still prove costly toward a repeated district title.
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Noe Sepulveda
2
Josue Pena
Tony Bercian
Jacob Hernandez
Harlingen
Manny De Leon
Rey Hernandez
Cardinals “The key is going to be our offseason schedule, we’re going to have to gain some confidence before heading into district.” --Cretors
Mario Banda
Victor Cepeda
(HSSM Photos)
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 10-3 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 6-1, 1st MASCOT: CARDINALS HEAD COACH: RANDY CRETORS, 6th RETURN STARTERS: 4 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to Converse-Judson in Class 5A Div I Quarterfinals 37-15.
Harlingen Cardinal head coach Randy Cretors could not have been any more content with his team’s performance last season, but his team is in HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 2nd an all new boat and the level of competition will not be any less difficult. The Cardinals will need to pull together if they want to duplicate last season’s outcome, but a mere 2/2 starters returning from last season might make that tough. Now things have changed for the worse with projected quarterback Ryan Koite (5’9, 160, 4.6), out with a shoulder injury. In the backfield, RB Justin Hernandez, will be counted on to carry the load until the Cards can find another quarterback. He produced a 1,060 yard, 14 TD performance in 05’. Senior defense end Manny DeLeon (6’0, 225. 4.7) and linebacker Felipe Garcia (5’8, 175) are going to be two tough defenders when the Cards’ need to play stoppers. Garcia finished the 05’ season with 110 tackles. Other notable players to watch on the defensive side will be defensive tackles Josh Vilt, Javier Alaniz, and DT’s Gilbert Parediz and Andrew Alonzo. The Cards open against Los Fresnos, Donna, and then San Benito in non-district action. www.hssmOnline.net
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
OJ Carranco
Joey Perez
Adrian Casares
31-5A
David Rodriguez
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 5-6 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 5-1, 2nd MASCOT: BOBCATS HEAD COACH: ROBERT VELA, 10th yr RETURN STARTERS: 6 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to Harlingen 21-13 in Class 5A Div II Bi-District game. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 3rd
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Peter Boyko
Andrew Espinoza
Edinburg
(HSSM Photos)
Bobcats
“We’ve got some young kids who are going to step up and be part of the program, so we are ready to see what they can do.” --Vela
Each of the three city teams faces an onslaught from the east after UIL realignment sent the Harlingen schools into 31-5A for two seasons. Robert Vela at Edinburg notes that the “super-district” is going to challenge everyone but will probably end up being a benefit in the end. “Playing such good teams every week will get your team ready for the playoffs; there are no easy games in this league,” said Vela, who has to replace his starting backfield of Bobby Trevino, Dustin Ponce and Jesse Galvan, among other losses. “The good thing is, we have Joey Perez ready to step in at quarterback,” he continued. A few weeks ago, Perez broken his ankle while playing basketball, and Adrian Caceres, son of offensive coordinator Joey Caceres, who was set to take over the backfield load, injured his shoulder. The Bobcats will be rebuilding during the non-district schedule and Vela has three more fullbacks to work with. “We will build around center Damian Gonzalez and tight end Lupe Gomez, they’re the only offensive starters coming back,” said Vela. Vela noted his group back there is tall and fast, led by O.J. Carranco, David Rodriguez, and Joey Tijerina. “We’ve got some young kids who are going to step up and be part of the program, so we are ready to see what they can do,” he concluded. If the Bobcats expect to make the playoffs in 2006, they will have to make with “Bobcat Pride” after Edcouch-Elsa blasted the Cats in a controlled scrimmage. Edinburg opens the season against Donna on September 1st, followed by San Benito and Mission Sharyland. Vela will see his team open at PSJA Memorial on September 28th and will then host a much improved Edinburg Economedes team. “Our program here is built around pride and our players understand that they must work hard to achieve these goals,” added Vela. “This will be a very competitive district.”
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Can the PSJA North Raiders rebound from last season’s disappointment? (HSSM Photo)
31-5A
PSJA North
Raiders
“The key to us becoming successful this coming season will be the need for our kids to mature quickly.” -Garcia
Head coach Orlando Garcia probably made the best call of the season by waiting to play till September 8th against the McAllen Memorial Mustangs. This will give Garcia a chance to see all-state running back Bradley Stephens perform on the field. A good scouting report could result in a win for the Raiders when they meet the Mustangs. PSJA North Raiders were shunt to the bottom of the district last season and there were not too many good things to say about that. “This season’s squad is going to be pretty young, and we are going to have to grow up quick,” commented Garcia. Featured this year on offense will be running back Gabriel Jara (5’8, 160); half back Issac Huerta (6’1, 190). A major key to having Jara and Huerta rumble from some serious yards this season will be the responsibility of offensive linemen Rene Gonzalez (5’8, 240), Pete Bazan (6’’0, 260 and Miguel Mercado (5’6, 170). The Raiders open district play with their hometown rivals PSJA and PSJA Memorial in back to back weeks.
FOR THE RECORD
Sander Pharmacy
Prescription and Compounding Specialists
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 2-4, 5th MASCOT: RAIDERS HEAD COACH: ORLANDO GARCIA RETURN STARTERS: 8 LAST PLAYOFF: 2003 loss to SA O’Conner 27-21 in Regional finals in Class 5A Division II. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 4th
Michael H. Sanders, R.Ph.
956.968.4528
916 East Street Weslaco, Texas 78596 Fax (956.968.8254 www.hssmOnline.net
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
31-5A
2006 Edinburg North members include front kneeling l-r are Randy Ramirez, LeeRoy Vasquez, Antemo Rodriguez, Steve Alonzo, and Oscar Hernandez. Back row l-r are Victor Herrera, Danny Morales, Mel Salinas, Mario Medrano, Andy Pianeda, CJ Salinas, Alex Benitez, and Manny Salinas. (HSSM Photo)
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Edinburg North
Cougars
“We lost some key kids but we have numbers coming back, so we are hopeful this will be our year.”--Garza
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 3-6 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 2-4, 5th MASCOT: COUGARS HEAD COACH: ROY GARZA, 3rd yr RETURN STARTERS: 12 LAST PLAYOFF: 2001 loss to Laredo Nixon 24-6 in Class 5A Div II Area round.
Edinburg North lost a lot of close games last season finishing below the .500 mark, but the Cougars appear to have a chance to HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 5th move up in the standings in 2006 by taking some of the nail-biters in their favor. Coach Roy Garza has almost 30 kids back who played last year, including eight starters on defense. Garza’s going to decide on a quarterback to replace Ramiro Ramirez, and it might be his younger brother, Randy. “He was a starter on defense and our punter, and he is one of the kids we’re looking at,” said Garza. The Coogs return a starting back in Artemio Rodriguez, and has two transfers who will contribute, in junior Oscar Hernandez and senior Albert Espinoza. The latter was a 100-meter man in track and will give the team a boost of speed. North’s biggest holes are on the offensive line and Garza is looking for some tough Coogs to lead the way there. On defense, the line has four veterans on board including all-district picks Alex Benitez and Leroy Vazquez, while strongman David Torres expects to step in and fill a hole at LB. “We’re looking to get into the playoffs this year,” said Garza. “We lost some key kids but we have numbers coming back, so we are hopeful this will be our year.” Edinburg North will be one of the surprise teams from 31-5A and with much beef and expectations, do not be surprised if the www.hssmOnline.net Coogs make the playoffs in 2006.
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The Harlingen South Hawks had to forfeit one game last season due to an inelgible player. The forfeit kept the Hawks out of the playoffs. (HSSM Photo)
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Harlingen South
Hawks
“It is going to be a rebuilding process this season as we look to replace most of our skill players on the team.” --Helms
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 4-3, 4th MASCOT: HAWKS HEAD COACH: JIM HELMS, 3rd yr RETURN STARTERS: 6 LAST PLAYOFF: 2003 Class 4A Division I loss to Edinburg 38-14 in bi-district. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 6th
With Edinburg and Harlingen nursing quarterback injuries, the Harlingen South Hawks have leaped into contention for a playoff spot or even a district title. The Hawks were left out of the playoffs last season due to a forfeit game and according to James Helms, he says that “It is going to be a rebuilding process this season as we look to replace most of our skill players on the team.” On offense, the Hawks return a mere three starters of which none are skill positions. OL Dan Cardenas (6’3, 260) is one of the most experience returner on the offensive side. Other prospective players are OL C.J. Arellano and WR Logan Brown. The South defense might just be the anchor for the team this season though returning three. All-district linebacker Kody Degges (6’3, 215) will be joined by CB Phillip Alcala (5’10, 170), they are two of three returning from 05’. www.hssmOnline.net
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
31-5A
Passing Attack is what sophomore QB Mike Barrientes is hoping to bring to the Edinburg Economedes Jaguars. He hopes to make the varsity squad. (HSSM Photo)
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Edinburg Economedes
Jaguars
“It’s exciting to be at our place for so many games, and that will help us get fired up in front of our fans.” --Salinas
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 2-7 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 2-4, 6th MASCOT: JAGUARS HEAD COACH: OSCAR SALINAS, 6th RETURN STARTERS: 11 LAST PLAYOFF: 2003 loss to CC King 35-28 in the Area playoffs in Class 5A Division II.
Over at Economedes, Head coach Oscar Salinas also thinks his team will be better than it was in 2005. He says that the main task right now HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 7th is finding a quarterback, and he has two good ones waiting in the wings in Mike Iglesias and Angel Milan. Both were receivers last year and Salinas says that when one wins the QB job, the other will become an asset at receiver. “Iglesias was a good punt returner and played quarterback as a freshman,” he reported, “while Angel has been a receiver and punter, they’re both good players.” The Jags return Luis Jimenez at tailback and Eric Badillo at fullback. The program also has tackles Ivan Lopez and A.J. Perez back along with Odwin Perez, a starter at guard a year ago. The Jags have a great schedule set, with eight home games out of 10, although two of them will come with Economedes being the road team at its own stadium against the other two city schools. “It’s exciting to be at our place for so many games, and that will help us get fired up in front of our fans,” said Salinas.
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Wolverines are front kneeling l-r: Julio Salazar, Eric Quintana, and Casey Ramirez. Back row l-r: Israel Gutierrez, Jorge Medrano,Noe Alvarado, and Kevin Ornelas. (HSSM Photo)
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PSJA Memorial
Wolverines
“We are looking at it as an opportunity heading into 5A, and our goal is to make it to the playoffs.” --Sanchez
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 8-3 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 6-1, 2nd MASCOT: WOLVERINES HEAD COACH: JOE SANCHEZ, 8th RETURN STARTERS: 12 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to CC Calallen 54-7 in Class 4A Div II BiDistrict game.
The PSJA Memorial Wolverines might have escaped having HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 8th to face Edcouch-Elsa for the district title in 32-4A, but new challenges wait. The Wolverines have jumped to a stout 31-5A district that garnishes two district champions from last season. Sanchez said that it will be tougher competing at the 5A level, but he feels that his team will step up to the challenge. Players to watch on the Wolverine offense will be running backs Julio Salazar (5’8, 150, 4.5) and Casey Ramirez (5’7, 160, 4.7). The two are capable of turning up the heat when the time comes, and the two will be needed if their team is to compete in this new gridiron environment. “Julio has been playing on the varsity since his sophomore year, so he has some good experience coming into the new season,” Sanchez said. Linebacker Kevin Ornelas (5’8, 160, 4.7) is one of seven coming back from the 05’ season. Other notable players will be defensive linemen Marcos Martinez and Jaime Villescas. www.hssmOnline.net
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2006 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
32-5A
Pictured are kneeling l-r are Luis Campos, Trini Garza, Isiah Rivera, Johnathon Campos, and Pablo Delgado. Back row l-r are George Ariaza, Justin Springer, Jeremy Springer, John Rodriguez, and Julian Escalon. (HSSM Photo)
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Los Fresnos
Falcons
“I expect us to win every football game that we play, i think that we have a lot of talent and we have the football team that is capable to do just that.”--Ford
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 9-3 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 5-2, 2nd MASCOT: FALCONS HEAD COACH: SCOTT FORD, 2nd yr RETURN STARTERS: 12 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to Laredo United 29-24 in Class 5A Div II area game.
Falcons Head coach Scott Ford was happy with his team’s performance last season, but looks for his team to take the outright HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 1st district title this time around. Los Fresnos returns six starters to this season’s squad. Leading the offense this season is QB Jeremy Springer (6’4, 205, 4.8) who moves to the position after playing WR in ‘05 where he caught 39 passes for eight TDs. Running back Luis Campos should provide some relief for Springer with a successful ‘05 season where he rushed for 913 yards on 151 carries for 13 TDs. Other notable prospects on offense are WR Esia Rivera (5’8, 170, 4.5), OT Mario Benavides (6’4, 260, 5.0), QB/LB Danny Silva (5’11, 210, 5.0), OL Albert Gomez, K/P Pablo Degallado and C Julian Escalon. The high flying Falcon defense will be headed by Justin Springer (6’4, 212, 4.8) who returns from last season as the 32-5A Defensive Player of the Year for notching 130 tackles at the linebacker position. Other players to watch on defense are FS Jonathon Campos, DE Jorge Aranda, DT Matt Barba and John Rodriguez.
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32-5A
Pictured are kneeling l-r are Sergio Lozano, Frank Echavarria, and Mike Rodriguez. Back row l-r are Josh Cantu, Albert Riojas, Ben De La Rosa, Nick Garza, and Edgar Lopez. (HSSM Photo)
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WESLACO
PANTHERS “Our attitude is really good this year; we really feel that we can get some things accomplished.”--Villarreal
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 7-4 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 3-3, 3rd MASCOT: PANTHERS HEAD COACH: TONY VILLARREAL RETURN STARTERS: 15 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to Los Fresnos in 44-41 OT Class 5A Div II Bi-District game.
The Weslaco Panthers will be another team returning a majority of HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 2nd their players on the defensive side with seven. Head coach Tony Villarreal led the Panther to postseason that ended a long drought. The offense will be depending on returning junior tail back Mishak Rivas (5’8, 165, 4.3) who ran for 1,234 yards last season to lead the way with another season of experience under his belt. Other offensive prospects are FB Arnold Riocea, WR Jose Cabrera, OL Andreas Arrendondo, C Arnold Cavazos, OT Chuck Ellsworth and K Jose Cruz. With seven returning on defense, this has the Panthers looking like district dominators in 2006. All-district LB Edgar Lopez (6’0, 230, 4.9) returns from last season when he notched a team-high 135 tackles. Joining Lopez will be all-district FS Albert Rojas (6’2, 185, 4.4), LB Ben de la Rosa (6’2, 210, 4.8), CB Josh Cantu (5’9, 175, 4.8), all-district DE Nick Garza (6’2, 185, 4.4) and LBs Sergio Lozano and Eric Lopez. The Panthers renewed their rivalries with Edcouch Elsa, Mercedes, and Donna. “This should be intense,” says Villarreal. www.hssmOnline.net www.hssmOnline.net
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32-5A
Looking cool and ready for a playoff spot are the San Benito Greyhounds. San Benito will be sporting a new football stadium in October. (HSSM Photo)
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San Benito
Greyhounds “We have high expectations for our team this season, especially on the defensive side of the ball.” --Pena
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 6-5 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 4-3, 3rd MASCOT: GREYHOUNDS HEAD COACH: MARIO PENA, 4th yr RETURN STARTERS: 12 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to PSJA 24-11 in Class 5A Div II Bi-District game.
The San Benito Greyhounds lost some key components on offense but look for their defense to keep their postseason aspirations alive. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 3rd The Greyhound offense will be returning a mere three from last season’s bi-district qualifying team. QB Raymond De los Santos will be the key to the team’s offensive push this season after losing all-district running back Tamez to graduation. De los Santos returns after rushing for 529 yards and a couple TDs along with 905 yards passing and 11 TDs. Other notable players on offense are WR Greg Castillo (5’11, 175, 4.6) and TB Abel Aguirre (5’10, 160, 4.9). Castillo made 31 catches for 379 yards and seven TDs. “We have a new offensive coordinator in Claude Bassett, and we feel that he is going to compliment our program,” added Pena. The tough San Benito defense will be spear headed by DE Joey Nunez (6’1, 215, 4.6) who finished last season with more than 200 tackles as a junior. DB Victor Barrientes will also be returning off a season where he recorded five interceptions that www.hssmOnline.net he ran back for a total 185 yards. With a stadium, the Greyhounds will be back in the playoffs.
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Lobos Head football coach Valentin Montemayor will be looking for a playoff spot as the new 325A team in 2006. Lopez H.S. moved up from 32-4A where they were playoff contenders. (HSSM Photo)
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Brownsville
Lopez Lobos “I think that it is going to be very competitive, and we like our chances in this new district.” --Montemayor
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 5-6 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 4-3, 4th MASCOT: LOBOS HEAD COACH: VAL MONTEMAYOR 37-46
RETURN STARTERS: 12 LAST PLAYOFF: 2005 loss to CC FLOUR BLUFF 52-22 in Class 5A Div I Bi-District game.
The Lobos jump up in classification from 4A this season, but the newbie to the district HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 4th know how to win and get to postseason. “I think that our offense is ready to go,” said Montemayor. “We have our quarterback and some receivers, and that is important when you run a spread offense.” On offense, Lopez will have quarterback Luis Munoz (5’10, 180, 4.8) returning from ‘05 where he recorded 1,134 yards on 94 completes for nine touchdowns. At the receiving end of the passes, Lopez will be returning WR Rico Benavidez (5’10, 165, 4.9) who caught 35 passes for 444 yards and three TDs. In the back field, running back Juan Munoz (5’7, 184, 4.6) should add some yards on ground after returning from last season where he rushed for 1,197 on 144 carries for 10 TDs. Other notable returners are tackle Jorge Garza (6’3, 220, 5.0), backup QB Jorge Silva (5’10, 151, 4.9) and WR Jorge Salinas. The Lobo defense will see the return of middle linebacker Juan Barrientes (5’9, 215, 5.1) and LB Ronnie Slovak (5’7, 175, 4.8). Barrientes is a three-year www.hssmOnline.net starter that recorded a stellar 126 tackles last season. www.hssmOnline.net
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Brownsville
Rivera Raiders
32-5A FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 3-4, 4th MASCOT: RAIDERS
“We’re really excited and looking forward to the season.” -- HEAD COACH: SAL HERNANDEZ, 2nd yr Hernandez
The Brownsville Rivera Raiders return after producing a winning season of 6-4, but a tough outing in district kept them home during the postseason. QB Luis Villarreal is the key returner for the Raiders this season after producing 1,350 yards threw the air with 12 TDs. Villarreal will need some
RETURN STARTERS: 6
LAST PLAYOFF: 2003 loss to PSJA North in Class 5A Div II Bi-District game. HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 5th
contributions from other key positions on the offense if the Raiders are going to put some points on the score board. “He (Villarreal) is a lot more experience and that is going to help him a lot more,” commented Hernandez on his returning quarterback. “He is showing much more improvement during practice heading into the season.” “Our defense was primarily seniors last year, we are going to need to be a lot more aggressive this time around to keep ourselves in the playoff race,” said Hernandez.The Raider defense is anchored by MLB David Trevino who comes off an all-district season in ‘05. Rivera will need some new faces to fill in the voids left from departed starters from last season if the Raiders are going to be one the four-spots open for the postseason. “A good thing is that everyone is just talking about the playoffs, and how without that it would be a very unsuccessful season,” added Hernandez. The Raiders will welcome back head coach Tony Villarreal, 2nd year coach at Weslaco back to the 32-5A District, where he started at Brownsville Hanna three years ago. With five schools from Brownsville ISD now competing for four playoff spots, along with Los Fresnos, Weslaco, and San Benito. Clinching just one playoff spot would be the biggest task for all five schools, noting that the other non-Brownsville schools made the playoffs in 2005.
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Brownsville
Pace Vikings “The district will just as competitive as before, but I think that our guy’s belief in the program will give us the edge.” --Medrano
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 7-3 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 4-3, 4th MASCOT: VIKINGS HEAD COACH: RENE MEDRANO, 9th RETURN STARTERS: 10 LAST PLAYOFF: 2004 loss to Edinburg in Class 5A Div II Bi-District game.
The Brownsville Pace Vikings just missed the playoffs last season even though they notched a winning record in district. The Vikings return just as strong in ‘06, but know that they need to stay focus if they expect to earn a playoff bid this HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 6th season. The Vikings will have a little more than half of their starters from last season returning, but RB Alex Garza (5’5, 155) poses the biggest threat to opposing defenses. Garza put up a mere 144 yards, but scored 20 times in 05’. “It will be good having Alex Garza back this season, he did some really good things last season,” said Head coach Rene Medrano. The offense will also see the return of WRs Andres Martinez (5’11, 165) and Mario Rios (5’11, 150). Martinez’s athleticism allows him to play on both sides of the ball, last season he received all-district honors on both sides. He caught 19 passes for 389 yards and 6 TDs in ‘05. “We are looking for him (Martinez) to come up big for us this season,” added Medrano. The offensive line lost some key linemen, but stepping up to the challenge of replacing them are OT Jerry Alegria and OG John Gaona. The defense will most definitely see some new faces as they only return four from last year. Notable prospects are LB Rolando Rosalea, DE David Reyna and Martinez who plays on both sides of the ball for the Vikings. “I think our defense is going to be a lot quicker than it was last season,” commented Medrano. PK Jesus Hinojosa will be key to having his team win the close games that go down to the wire.
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Brownsville
Porter Cowboys “Four teams heading to the playoffs makes it a lot better for us since we’re young this season, hopefully we can take the third or four spot.” --Kizer
32-5A
FOR THE RECORD
2005 OVERALL RECORD: 3-7 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 1-6, 7th MASCOT: COWBOYS HEAD COACH: JAMES KIZER, 3rd yr RETURN STARTERS: 9 LAST PLAYOFF: 2003 loss to Gregory Portland 49-28 in Class 4A Div II Regional game.
In Porter , head coach James Kizer’s second year with the program, the Cowboys HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 7th record only one victory in district. This season might not look any better after losing 22 lettermen, which might be a little much to overcome while returning only nine. The Cowboy offense is returning six on offense. Returning under center will be QB Frank Cerda (6’2, 210). “Frank is our big quarterback that is coming back with the most experience at the position, but we also have Adrian Moya who can step in if needed,” offensive coordinator Joe Martinez said. Moya is also the little brother of last season’s starting QB Julian Moya. Running back Art Aguillar will be returning after almost rushing for 1,000 yards in ’05. “We’re really counting on Art to step it up this season as we plan giving him the ball even more this season,” added Kizer. “The offensive line is going be key for us this season as we return some talented guys,” said Kizer. Cerda will have linemen Joey Flores, Louie ‘Gus’ Sangler and Rolando Salinas back to help protect him in the pocket. Offensive coordinator Martinez said that “Salinas will
probably anchor the line this season.” The defense will need to hold their own this season as the offense prepares to do their thing, but three returning starters from last year might make that difficult. “Our team this season going to primarily consist of juniors and seniors, so hopefully we can make a good run this season,” concluded Kizer.
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Brownsville
Hanna Eagles “I’m really excited about the season now that four teams can go into the season, hopefully we can be one of those teams.”--Padilla
FOR THE RECORD 2005 OVERALL RECORD: 2-8 2005 DISTRICT RECORD: 0-7, 8th MASCOT: EAGLES HEAD COACH: TONY PADILLA, 2nd yr RETURN STARTERS: 6
LAST PLAYOFF: 2001 loss to La Joya in OT 18-10 in Class 5A Div I Bi-DisThe Brownsville Hanna Golden Eagles had a tough outing last season, and things trict game. are not looking any better unless some new faces to the program can step it up this HSSM PROJECTED FINISH IN 2006: 8th season. The Eagles are returning a mere three starters on offense from last season, heading the offense at quarterback will be Eli Garcia (5’9, 165, 4.9). Garcia will have returning running back Trent Mibi (5’10, 170, 4.5) in the backfield that should add some extra and much needed experience. Wide receiver Mike Perez (5’10, 160, 4.6) will provide an experience target for Garcia with the passing game. The team should have a better idea of the offense since last season was the first season that it was installed, Padilla said. “We have had a whole season with the offense and I think that the guys finally know the offense,” added Padilla. On the defense, the Eagles are pretty much the same as on offense as they too, return with a meager three starters from 2005. Line backer Eddie Eduardo (5’9, 180, 4.8) and defensive end Favio Valledares (6’2, 240, 5.3) hope to bring experience to a very young Hanna defense. “The defense is well conditioned and very athletic,” continued Padilla. “We have a new defense. Paul Pinrod is the new coordinator and we feel that our system is heading in the right direction,” he continued. The chips are stacked against Hanna this season, the returning starters will need to show some leadership if things are going turn around in 2006. “There is no reason why we shouldn’t compete this season,” concluded Padilla.
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