Volume 5 Issue No. 1
THE ROAD TO THE
SWEET 16
Top-Ranked McHi Eyes Path Again www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
It’s all about passion
T
he uniform of every den. Now, its become a athlete in high school sacrifice for myself and is vital to their performy wife. mance on the playing Today, he is a sophofield. This uniform is more still waiting for about pride and charhis varsity team golf acter. Most importantly, representashirt with a school logo. tion. Schools that brand their players Instead, his school with jerseys, t-shirts, shorts, bags, gave him a shirt with caps, all with it’s school name and no name. He asked me, logo makes these student athletes “why does the football feel that they belong to something BY team have jerseys and special. Many athletes today strive to helmets with school lobecome the best in their sport by traingos” and our “golf team HSSM PUBLISHER does not”. He also told ing at a very early age. I should know, me that he did not feel my son started training and practicing golf at the age of five. He also wanted to that he belong to this golf team at tournamake the varsity team as a freshmen, so he ments because there was no name or logo of his high school on his uniform. Instead, worked harder and made the team. Over the years, the investment of buying- he felt like an individual. The only pride Titliest golf clubs, pants, Nike or Adidas he has is the pride that he has learned from shirts, and tournamet fees played a role in loving this game of golf. Still, this bothers me because he has strughis passion for golf. At times, it became a financial b u r - gled with “motivation” on the playing field. The look on this sixteen-year-old’s face was a look of hurt. So I decided to asked M.I.S.D. “why” as a parent. The response was surprising. The athletic director showed no interest in solving this problem. He said that golf was “too expensive” and “cost more per player” per uniform than football did? Hmmm. Ironically, he also told me a few years ago that, “golf was not important and it did not produce revenues.” So he eliminated the golf programs at all seven junior highs. This M.I.S.D. Athletic Director loves football. As a teenager, he’s been to the state football championships twice in his high school career. At the time, he was about 5’6” and weighed about 145 lbs. and never made it to the NFL. But, his high school football jersey sported its school name. It’s amazing what a school name or logo on a shirt/jersey can do for a player .
DAVID AMADOR
..................................
Just a shirt with no name. McAllen Memorial varsity golf player Alec Amador is ranked as one of the Top 5 players with a 78.0 stroke average in District 30-5A. (HSSM IMages)
4
Publisher & CEO David A. Amador HSSM Graphics Production Flor Zuviri Alec D. Amador HSSM Photographers Daniel Silva HSSM Webmaster Jason O. Martinez B.B.A., C.P.T. David R. Smith HSSM Columnists Emails hssmonline@yahoo.com Web www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net Buy Sports Photos www.hssmphotos.com
956.687.4776 Office 956.687.4777 Fx High School Sports Magazine 7017 North10th Suite 305 Trenton View-3rd Floor McAllen, Texas 78504 Member of the
National Association of Hispanic Journalists 2008-09 Member of the Texas Sports Writers Association All stories and photos published by High School Sports Magazine may not be reprinted without written permission. All 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.
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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
January 15, 2009
Special Issue
January 15, 2009
Volume Five Issue One
RGV 2009
ROAD to the
Contents
SWEET 16
www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net
1954 District Basketball Champs! McAllen High School former player Jesus “Chuck” Liquez was honored, along with other past alumni Bulldogs at a recent McHi Basketball game hosted by the McAllen H.S. Basketball Booster Club. Liquez was a member of the first District 8-3A championship team that went 27-6 that year. He still proudly wears his school jacket.
VOLUME 4
ISSUE NO.7
8
ROAD TO THE SWEET SIXTEEN By David A. Amador
McHi Bulldogs looking to make it back to Region IV Tournament.
12 GAMEDAY
Get the latest stats and standings on basketball coverage from the Rio Grande Valley.
22 One on One
(HSSM IMages)
Interview
with Hidalgo ISD Athletic Director, Albert Guerra
On the Cover: McAllen H.S. players Corey Pace, Nick Garza, J.J. Avila Jr, Ryan Evans, and Nevin Franks. (HSSM IMages)
28 The Best of the Best
Pirate soccer player Jesus Mireles wants to someday play Professional Soccer
35 Meet NCAA’s Top Golfer
Former Sharyland golfer Dustin Garza ranked No.1 in the nation in college standings from Wichita State
Member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists
Printed in the U.S.A. 6
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE.NET
January 15, 2009
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RGV 2009
ROAD to the
Sweet 16
www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net
Frank Erwin Center Austin, Texas
U.I.L. State Basketball Championships
March 5th-14th, 2009
THE ROAD TO THE
SWEET 16 The McAllen Bulldogs are rank No.1 in the HSSM POlls and after winning the 30-5A District title and making it to the 2008 Class 5A Region IV Tournament, these Bulldogs could be the Swiftest team in 2009. Can the Edinburg Bobcats reign without Joe Filoteo? And will the Harlingen South Lady Hawks and McAllen Lady Bulldogs be tough to beat in 2009? The Road to the Sweet 16 begins here. B Y D A V I D A. A M A D O R
HSSM Sports Director
(McAllen, Texas)-McHi Bulldog head coach Roy Swift looks up and stares at the banners hanging from the ceilings in the gymnasium and has one goal in mind: to match or beat the three district titles these Bulldog teams won from 1972-74, along with an impressive 61-10 record in 28-5A. Swift knows that this year’s McHi (24-4) team could win its second consecutive 30-5A title and make another possible run at the Class 5A Regional Champiionships but he also knows that, “it’s going to be a long road to the Sweet 16.” He also adds that, “we just need to stay focus and remember that teams will play us harder every night because of our top ranking.” The Bulldogs are led by J.J. Avila Jr, a 6’6” junior, who averages 24.0 points 8
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE.NET
per game and senior guard, Corey Pace (6’3) who adds another ten points per night. Three other players who have added a spark to this year’s team are juniors Ryan Edwards (6’5 forward), Nick Garza (6’3 guard), and Nevin Franks (5’9 guard). In the last two games, Franks has scored 11 points each in their wins over McAllen Nikki Rowe (81-69) and Rio Grande City (82-61) to lead his Bulldogs to a 7-1 in 30-5A. But most importantly, a first place standing. Head coach Swift also gets swift moves with seniors Joseph Pompa (6’3 forward) and three-point shooter, Hutton Edwards (5’6 guard). Edwards has made 61 (3-point attempts) out of 159 atThe McAllen Bulldogs are rank No.1 in the HSSM POlls but lost to Sharyland in overtime 74-73. They will both meet again on Friday. Pictured is J.J. Avila Jr defending Rattler Joaquin Pistokache. (HSSM IMages)
January 2009
> If you have a comment for David A. Amador, send it to hssmonline@yahoo.com
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
9
RGV 2009
ROAD to the
Road Facts: The McAllen Bulldogs won their first-ever district title in 1954.
Sweet 16
tempts, good for a 38% mark. He also has converted 77% of his free throws to average 7.9 points a game (221 points season). But with Pace in the lineup, along with Garza, the Bulldogs find themselves running and gunning up the floor. “It’s fun. I just run and get to the basket on fast breaks,” says Garza. With Pace on the opposite side, he leads the team with 110 assists and ranks in the Top 10 in the Valley with 4.1 assists per game. Pace also likes going to the boards on defense and so far his 84 rebounds for the year proves it too. Pace also ranks second on the team in scoring with ten points, with his biggest game coming against the McAllen Memorial (20), Nikki Rowe (20), and the Bulldog’s 75-79 loss to San Antonio Wagner (17-6) in the cham-
pionship game of the Dr. Keillor Classic played on November 29th. “It’s been fun this year and I hope that we can get back to the State 5A Regional Championships in 2009,” says Pace. Wagner is currently sitting in second place behind San Antonio Converse Judson (27-1) who defeated their cross-town rival 72-59 earlier this season in District 27-5A. With Wagner struggling this season, this could open up the doors for the Bulldogs in playoffs. Last year, the Bulldogs lost to the Thunderbirds 93-64 in the Class 5A Regional Semifinals. Judson is expected to make to the semifinals this season in Region IV at the University of Texas-San Antonio Convocation Center to be played on March 6-7th. Swift knows that playing a tough
schedule early in the season helps prepare his team for the state playoffs. At the McDonald’s Texas Invitational played in Pasadena, Texas the Bulldogs finished with a 3-2 record with wins over Dickinson (76-63), Pasadena Memorial (59-47), Humble (60-48), before losing to Pasadena Dobie (38-44) and then Katy Cinco Ranch in the championship game 52-41 on November 22nd. “We played some great teams in Houston. Hopefully, this will help us in the state playoffs,” adds Swift. Both Humble (19-8) and Cinco Ranch (22-5) seem to be headed to the state playoffs like the Bulldogs along with Dobie (5-2 District 225A). “We are maturing and it’s going to be interesting come playoff time,” says Swift.
Photos by HSSM IMages
McHi Players to watch...
Joey Pompa-Jr 5’8 Guard-2pts PPG 25% 3pt shooter 10
Mark Lopez-Sr
Hutton Edwards-Sr
Joseph Pompa-Sr
5’8 Guard-5pts PPG Game High: 16pts
5’6 Guard-7.9pts PPG Most 3-pts game: 8
6’3 Forward-2.9pts PPG 67% Free-throw shooter
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE.NET
January 15, 2009
Class 5A Region IV Tournament March 6-7th San Antonio, Tx
McHi Bulldog Banners hanging high with head coach Roy Swift and players (l-r)-David Atkinson, Charles Follar, Stephen Guerra, and Chris Smith. The Bulldogs will travel to play Sharyland this Friday night in a crucial 30-5A showdown. The Rattlers won the first game in overtime 74-73. (HSSM IMages) > If you have a comment for David A. Amador, send it to hssmonline@yahoo.com
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
11
2009 RGV 2009
ROAD to the Sweet 16
Road Facts: The Harlingen Lady Cardinals missed the state playoffs in 2008. They last won a bi-district title in 2007 over Weslaco.
Gameday Standings DISTRICT BY DISTRICT STANDINGS
RGV Boys Glance District 32-3A 1. Hidalgo 17-9, 6-0 2. Zapata 12-11, 5-1 3. Rio Hondo 9-10, 4-2 4. La Feria 9-10, 4-2 5. Port Isabel 9-11, 2-4 6. Lyford 9-13, 2-4 7. Progreso 2-11, 2-4 8. Raymondville 3-17, 0-6
District 32-4A 1. Mission Veterans 19-9, 7-1 2. Roma 13-12, 7-1 3. Mission High 20-6, 5-3 4. Ed-Elsa 10-16, 4-4 5. Weslaco East 14-12, 4-4 6. Mercedes 14-13, 3-5 7. Valley View 9-18, 2-6 8. LJ Juarez-Lincoln 2-23
District 32-4A 1. Roma 20-5, 5-1 2. Mercedes 17-7, 5-1 3. Mission 18-6, 4-2 4. Weslaco East 13-7, 4-2 5. Mission Veterans 20-5, 3-3 6. Ed-Elsa 12-10, 2-4 7. Valley View 6-12, 2-4 8. LJ Juarez-Lincoln 5-9, 0-6
District 30-5A 1. McAllen Memorial 23-8, 8-0 2. McAllen 21-7, 7-1 3. McAllen Rowe 12-12, 6-2 4. Donna 9-13, 4-4 5. La Joya 2-6, 2-6 6. RGC 13-15, 2-6 7. Sharyland 8-18, 2-6 8. LJ Palmview 1-17, 0-8
District 30-5A 1. McAllen 22-4, 5-1 2. McAllen Memorial 14-9, 5-1 3. Sharyland 14-9, 5-1 4. McAllen Rowe 18-7, 4-2 5. LJ Palmview 11-8, 3-3 6. Donna 15-10, 2-4 7. RGC 9-15, 0-6 8. La Joya 2-11, 0-6
District 31-5A 1. Harlingen South 26-2, 8-0 2. Edinburg 24-5, 7-1 3. Harlingen 18-9, 6-2 4. Edinburg North 16-13, 4-4 5. PSJA North 14-8, 4-4 6. Economedes 10-13, 2-6 7. PSJA 10-15, 1-7 8. PSJA Memorial 6-12, 0-8
District 31-5A 1. Edinburg 18-6, 6-0 2. Harlingen South 14-10, 5-1 3. Harlingen 15-10, 4-2 4. PSJA North 11-12, 3-3 5. PSJA 9-11, 3-3 6. Edinburg North 7-15, 2-4 7. PSJA Memorial 10-14, 1-5 8. Economedes 4-18, 0-6
District 32-5A 1. Weslaco 20-7, 8-0 2. Brownsville Hanna 16-11, 6-2 3. Los Fresnos 14-14, 5-3 4. San Benito 14-10, 5-3 5. Brownsville Rivera 10-13, 4-4 6. Brownsville Porter 2-6, 2-6 7. Brownsville Lopez 8-14, 1-7 8. Brownsville Pace 4-15, 1-7
HSSM POLLS Top 10 Rio Grande Valley-Boys 1. McAllen 2. Roma 3. Edinburg 4. Weslaco 5. McAllen Memorial 6. Hidalgo 7. Santa Rosa 8. Brownsville Pace 9. Mercedes 10. Harlingen South Rio Grande Valley-Girls 1. Harlingen South 2. Hidalgo 3. McAllen Memorial 4. Weslaco 5. Edinburg 6. McAllen 7. Mission Veterans 8. Mission 9. Harlingen 10. Santa Rosa
HSSM Leaders Leading Scorers-Girls 1. Victoria Gonzalez, Hidalgo 25.4 2. Bianca Torre, Har South 24.7 3. Anika Lopez. Santa Rosa 21.1 4. Crystal Gasca, Harlingen 19.4 5. Diamond Caballero, Santa Rosa 18.9
Leading Scorers-Boys 1. J.J. Avila Jr, McAllen 22.3 District 32-5A 2. Javy Villarreal, Hanna 19.7 HSSM Scouting report compiled by 1. Brownsville Pace 15-9, 5-1 3. Mark Cordero, Santa Rosa 19.3 2. Weslaco 19-5, David 4-2 “Touchdown Dave” Amador, 4. Johnny Herrera, Mission 19.0 3. Brownsville Hanna 14-10, 4-2Sports Director HSSM 5. Rolie Garza, San Isidro 18.2 4. San Benito 15-8, 3-3 5. Los Fresnos 13-9, 3-3 Rebounds 6. Brownsville Porter 8-13, 1-4 1. Oscar Longoria, San Isidro 14.4 7. Brownsville Lopez 4-15, 2-4 2. Peyton Hayes, Har South 12.8 8. Brownsville Rivera 3-10, 2-4 3. Aaron Jackson, Donna 10.1
As of January 15, 2009
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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE.NET
January 2009
“
We are a very young team. I just hope we can be competitive...
“
RGV Girls Glance District 32-3A 1. Hidalgo 27-2, 8-0 2. Ray’ville 14-9, 7-1 3. La Feria 13-15, 6-2 4. Rio Hondo 11-8, 4-4 5. Zapata 11-14, 3-5 6. Progreso 2-4, 2-6 7. Port Isabel 5-18, 1-7 8. Lyford 4-16, 1-7
(Harlingen, Texas)-The last time the Harlingen Lady Cardinals made it to the State 5A playoffs was in 2007 when they defeated Weslaco 64-37 to claim the bi-district championship. They would lose to McAllen 64-59 to end their hopes for a state title bid. Head coach Nora Zamarripa has been coaching too long to understand that every season is challenging and different. At the Josten’s Holiday Classic played in McAllen, Zamarripa just wanted to be competitive. “We are a very young team. I just hope we can be competitive,” adds the Harlingen head coach. She watched her team lose three games to CC Miller (50-54), Economedes (42-
Nora Zamarripa Harlingen H.S. head coach
50), McAllen memorial (35-38), before picking a win over Lamar 42-34. That was then, this is now. Her Lady Cards are sitting in second place with a 7-2 record with key wins over Edinburg 43-42 and Edinburg North 47-42. Look for the Lady Cards to make the post season in 2008. Closing In are the Harlingen Lady Cardinals with Victoria Wiesman guarding Edinburg Economedes’s Mireya Galvan in District 31-5A. The Lady Cards are in second place. (HSSM IMages)
> If you have a comment for David A. Amador, send it to hssmonline@yahoo.com
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
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Road Facts: The McAllen Memorial Lady Mustangs defeated Laredo United 47-42 in 2008 to win the Class 5A Bi-District title. (McAllen, Texas)-McAllen Memorial head coach Maritza Pedraza is a mother off the court and a mother on the court. A former Lady Mustang herself, she says that being both is a task within itself. “My husband supports me and helps me with our children,” says Pedraza. With her husband’s support, who is also a coach, has allowed her to stay focused this season with a 10-0 district record in 30-5A and 25-8 overall. The Lady Mustangs started its season with losses to Gregory Portland (38-57), Flour Bluff (43-51), Edinburg (42-49), Seguin (31-66), and state-ranked Hidalgo (42-49) while picking up four wins before the holiday break in December. “We played a tough schedule. Our Lady Mustangs should be contenders for the 30-5A title in 2009. I really believe that we can do this,” said Pedraza. The Lady Mustangs traveled cross-town to upset McAllen 39-35 in their first district meeting of the season to stand alone, undefeated in 30-5A play. McAllen Memorial’s senior guard Thea Koenig scored 14 points to lead her team to vic-
“
“
Our Lady Mustangs should be contenders for the 30-5A title in 2009...
Maritza Pedraza McAllen Memorial H.S. head coach
tory. Top players for the Lady Mustangs are Nancy Garcia, Vanessa Delgado, and Nancy Carbia. Delgado and Carbia lead their team with assists and Pedraza says that playing the Lady Bulldogs at home will be there biggest test yet. With Pedraza rebuilding a Lady Mustang basketball program these past years into a contender, she hopes that they can continue the string of upsets with hopes going to the next level in the state playoffs in 2009. “These girls are a dedicated group and we have been successful because we play as a team,” adds Pedraza. “It’s total team work.” Leaders in 30-5A are the McAllen Memorial Lady Mustangs at 10-0. The Lady Mustangs will be looking to make the playoffs for the third consecutive season. (HSSM IMages)
Get more of THECoaches’ VIEW at www.HSSMCO
OACH.com
> If you have a comment for David A. Amador, send it to hssmonline@yahoo.com
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
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RGV 2009
ROAD to the
Sweet 16
(McAllen, Texas)-With half the season already over, the Los Fresnos Lady Falcons find themselves in the hunt for a State 5A playoff spot along with Donna, both hanging on to the fourth place spots in 32-5A and 30-5A respectively. Other teams vying for playoff berths are McAllen, McAllen Nikki Rowe, Edinburg, and Harlingen South. The only team assured of a guaranteed spot are the Harlingen South Lady Hawks who have dominated the league with a 28-2 overall record and 10-0 in 31-5A. Last year, the Harlingen South Lady Hawks advanced to the State 5A Region IV tournament, losing to San Antonio Madison 72-51. The Lady Hawks defeated San Benito, McAllen Memorial, and Laredo Alexander in the first
Top Scorer in the RGV is Victoria Gonzalez of Hidalgo with 25 points per game.(HSSM IMages) 16
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
January 15, 2009
Road Facts: The Edinburg Road Facts: The Hidalgo Lady Pirates lost to West Oso in the Class 3A Region made back-to-back Class nament appearances in 2 IV Quarterfinals in 2007 and 2008. three rounds to advance. Head coach Dawn Engleman has her team holding on to a two-game lead in 31-5A. They have out-scored their opponents 2,136 to 1,120. Both losses have been to Arlington (75-39) and Austin Westlake (71-62) this season. The Lady Chaps are 15-4 for the year in District 25-5A. Like the Lady Hawks, McAllen also posted three wins over Laredo Nixon, Edinburg Economedes, Laredo Cigarroa to reach the regional semifinals. The Lady Bulldogs seem to be headed to the playoffs in 2009 again. The Lady Bulldogs lost to San Antonio Wagner 65-43 in the fourth round. Head coach Teresa Casso reached a rare milestone by winning her 800th game over Bastrop 59-37 during the Border Bash Tournament hosted by the Lady Bulldogs in December. Her win ranks 18th in the nation amongst basketball coaches and she also ranks number one amongst Hispanic coaches in the United States. She has been coaching the Lady Bulldogs for the past 31 years and many supporters would like to see the McAllen High School gymnasium named “Teresa Casso Gymnasium”. She has added twelve more wins to her record since then. Getting the Edinburg Lady Bobcats back on track is head coach Rachel Carmona after losing in the Class 5A playoffs in 2008 to Laredo Alexander 82-67 in the area round. Her Lady Bobcats have struggled with district losses Harlingen South (70-47) and Harlingen (43-42) to remain tied with the Lady Cards at 7-2 in 315A. With four games left and an impressive 246 record, Carmona just needs to win out games against Economedes, PSJA, Harlingen South, and Edinburg North to make the playoffs for the sixth consecutive season. In 2006, the Lady Bobcats advanced to the State 5A Regional Semifinals losing to San Antonio Warren 50-47, a game that still lingers in Carmona’s thoughts. “We were so close to making it to state. Warren made it that year,” adds Carmona. The Lady Bobcats also made it the regional tournament in 2005. Both games were played at the University of Texas-San Antonio Convocation Center. “I would like to see these games in the Valley,” adds Carmona. In 32-3A, the Hidalgo Lady Pirates (29-2) lead the league with a perfect 10-0 record and
they also boast the Valley’s top zalez. The senior post has pou averages 25 points a game. Sou in second with 24.7 points pe rates have defeated teams like L San Antonio Churchill (66-60 (33-28), Seguin (56-33), and G 47) to reach twenty-nine wins
Leading the Edinburg Lady Bo Bianca Casas in District 31-5A.
Road Facts: The Harlingen South Lady g Lady Bobcats 5A Region IV Tour- Hawks and McAllen Lady Bulldogs both it to the Class 5A Regional round in 2008. 2005 and 2006.
p scorer, Victoria Gonured in 787 points and uth’s, Bianca Torre sits er game. The Lady PiLaredo Nixon (73-33), 0), El Paso Coronado Gregory Portland (55s for the season. “This
is a good team. We have played a lot of 5A schools and this makes us better-prepared for district competition,” says head coach Monica Rodriguez, head coach of the Lady Pirates. Other Lady Pirates contributing to this season’s wins are Nashae Owens, Jessica Olvera, Maria Perales, and Nelly Flores. The Lady Pirates advanced to the Region IV quarterfinals with a win over Cuero 48-28 before falling to West Oso 56-25.
obcats is sophomore .(HSSM IMages)
Hoping for a 32-5A playoff spot are the Los Fresnos Lady Falcons and Lindsey Edquisk.(HSSM IMages)
(Donna, Tx)-The last time the Donna Redskins made the playoffs in Class 5A was in 2004, prior to this, it was back in 1976. Head coach “Buddy” Martinez says that this Redskin team has rededicated themselves on the court and hopefully they will clinch the final 30-5A spot. “This is a great team. I’m proud of these guys,” says Martinez. The Redskins won a bi-district title that season in 2004 with a 42-41 win over Edinburg Economedes. Then the Redskins would lose a tough 56-55 game to Laredo United in the area round. The Redskins (17-10, 4-4) have defeated the McAllen Memorial Mustangs twice in 2008, including a district win to put them in fifth place, one game out fourth. In the playoff hunt are the 30-5A Donna Redskins with senior Josh Garcia and PSJA North’s Adrian Rodriguez looking on. (HSSM IMages)
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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
January 15, 2009
(Weslaco, Texas)-Last year, the Weslaco Panthers had to forfeit six district games due to three ineligible players. Head coach Gabe Valdez has rebounded since with his team atop in the 32-5A standings with a 6-2 record and overall, they have posted a 21-5 record. The Panthers last made the state playoffs in Class 5A in 2006 when the advanced to the Region IV Tournament posting wins over Harlingen South, Laredo Martin, McAllen Memorial, before bowing out to San Antonio Madison 68-34. The Panthers are led by seniors Marcus Cabrera (13.0 ppg) and Danny Ryan (10.0 ppg), Eddie Cantu (12.0 ppg) and Izzy Almazan (9.0 ppg) along with sophomore Raul Garcia (7.0 ppg). Both Cantu and Almazan have combined for a team high 74 3-pointers while Cabrera has converted 50% of his shots from the field. The Panthers posted key district wins over Brownsville Hanna (56-52) and Pace (66-47) in to catapult into the top standings. With only five games remaining on the schedule, the Panthers will host the Pace Vikings, in possible showdown for the title with both teams currently tied for first. Valdez would love to win another district title in 2009, but he knows that it will not come easy. “It’s a tough district. We just need play one game at a time,” adds Valdez. Weslaco Panthers lead 32-5A with Danny Ryan. The Panthers hope to make it to the Class 5A Region IV Tournament again. (HSSM IMages)
148 North Sam Houston Blvd San Benito, Texas 78586 956-399-1353 > Send your scores and stats to David A. Amador, @ hssmonline@yahoo.com
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
19
RGV 2009
ROAD to the
Sweet 16
Road Facts: The San Benito Greyhounds lost to Edinburg 55-49 in the Class 5A Bi-district playoffs in 2008. In more games, the San Benito Greyhounds are probably the scrappiest team in 32-5A, built with determination and pride. Head coach Roy Garcia manages to find ways to lead his Greyhounds, getting the most out of each player. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are not very big but these guys play with a lot of heart,â&#x20AC;? says Garcia. The Greyhounds (17-8, 5-3) remain one game out of first place in District 32-5A and with Los Fresnos (15-9, 5-3) and Brownsville Hanna (15-11, 5-3) all tied for second place, the Greyhounds will need to play tough defense in the upcoming games with Los Fresnos (Jan. 30th) and Weslaco (Feb.3rd). Top-ranked Roma find themselves tied in 32-4A district with a 7-1 record along with Mercedes. The Gladiators (21-5) lost in the preseason to San Antonio Clark (71-60), Brownsville Pace (58-45), McAllen (51-50), Laredo United (67-36), and then Weslaco East upset the Gladiators at home 51-50 in 32-4A play. Head coach Homer Garr was not pleased with the upsetminded Wildcats, but has since brought his team together by winning five games. Most recently, a 83-45 win at Capello Gymnasium against the Edcouch-Elsa Yellowjackets (12-18, 2-6). Other 32-4A teams looking for playoff spots are Mission (19-7, 5-3), Mission Veterans (22-5, 5-3), and East (14-8, 5-3). All are tied for third place in the standings. In 32-3A, the Hidalgo Pirates remain undefeated with a 8-0 record. The Pirates lost in the first round of the Class 3A playoffs to Lyford 43-33 and currently, they hold a twogame lead over Zapata (13-12, 6-2) and Rio Hondo (11-10, 6-2). The Lyford Bulldogs have slipped to sixth place with a 2-6 record in district. Greyhounds still alive. Pictured is Chris Preciado leading San Benito in 32-5A .(HSSM IMages)
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Road Facts: The Mustangs are tied for second in 30-5A. (McAllen, Texas)- Talk about shockers. The McAllen Memorial Mustangs lost to Donna 62-58 in a critical 305A match up after shocking Sharyland 57-56 on their home court on January 20th. “We’ll be alright,” says head coach Sam Cortez of the McAllen Memorial Mustangs after losing to Donna recently. The loss puts the Mustangs tied for second place with Sharyland at 62 with losses to McAllen (59-25) and now Donna. Against the Bulldogs, point guard Sameer Wadahani scored ten points but John Kowalski (6’7) was held to three points. The Mustangs also were held to three points in the second quarter. The last time the Mustangs advanced to the State 5A Region IV Quarterfinals was in 2006, when they played host to Weslaco before a sellout crowd at Memorial Gymnasium losing 46-32. The McAllen Memorial Mustangs are currently in second place in 30-5A behind senior Sameer Wadahani. (HSSM IMages)
> Send your scores and stats to David A. Amador, @ hssmonline@yahoo.com
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Photos by HSSM IMages
One On One INTERVIEW with Hidalgo Athle
A Man wi 22
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etic Director Albert Guerra
ith Vision B Y D A V I D A. A M A D O R H S S M S P O R T S D I R E C T O R
“Extracurricular activities is a focal point for every individual at Hidalgo I.S.D....” Albert Guerra, Hidalgo ISD Athletic Director (Hidalgo, Texas)-Ever since Albert Guerra stepped back into the position of Hidalgo’s Athletic Director, he now wants to see his Pirates evolve into a competitive bracket, which will offer top playing facilities for every athlete who plays for Hidalgo. “We pride ourselves with academic achievement. We also want to pride ourselves with the best athletes,” says Guerra. The ambitious athletic director, now the Regional Director for Region 7, which represents the Laredo, Corpus Christi, and Rio Grande Valley areas says that the support of the administration and school board has been tremendous. “Our team of administrators and school board members want to make sure that our students succeed here
at Hidalgo. Whether, its in sports or academics, we want to make sure that Hidalgo will offer the best,” adds Guerra. Recently, Bill and Melinda Gates made a trip to the high school campus and for Guerra, he was left speechless. “The Gates are incredible people. They are kind-hearted. They love to watch students succeed,” said Guerra. “It was inspiring to watch and meet both individuals.” The former baseball coach from PSJA North and Hidalgo still, would love to see the direction of high school sports change at the regional level. Guerra led a group of Athletic Directors, Valley leaders, and supporters to Austin, Texas to meet with the UIL Legislative Council at a meeting on Oct. 19
and 20th. The purpose was simple: rotate the regional tournaments between San Antonio and the Rio Grande Valley. The proposal includes all athletic and academic regional tournaments. “It’s garnered a lot of support,” said Guerra. “I believe that this change will occur in 2010 when our next UIL realignment occurs,” said Guerra. But for now, Guerra is excited about the new renovations coming to the athletic complex. “We are adding a two-tier 1,000 level stadium seating. We already added the field turf and this will make this the best,” says Guerra. The Hidalgo I.S.D. athletic director also added that, “extracurricular activities is a focal point for every individual at Hidalgo I.S.D.”
Hidalgo ISD Athletic Director Albert Guerra (Photos By HSSM IMages) 24
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January 15, 2009
For more on baseball go to: www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net
Former UT Baseball Star Hosts Baseball Camp
Adrian Alaniz drafted by MLB Washington Nationals (Hidalgo, Texas)-Former 2005 University of Texas Longhorn pitcher and NCAA Champion, Adrian Alaniz hosted a baseball camp for Hidalgo baseball players from ages 10 years old to 18 years old recently. “This is great,” says Alaniz, who now plays Major League Baseball for the Washington Nationals. Alaniz, only a freshmen, pitched the third no-hitter in Big 12 history by leading Texas to a 4-0 victory over Oklahoma. That same season, he would
post an impressive 8-3 record with 94 strikeouts. At the age of 21, Alaniz was honored by the Texas Senate for his accomplishment. The former Sinton High School baseball player says that playing MLB baseball in Double AA is very challenging. “I accepted a $100,000 signing bonus when I was drafted however, the playing pay is horrible,” he laughs. Alaniz also led the University of Texas Longhorns to the national title by winning two
games in the NCAA College World Series in 2005 as they defeated Florida 6-2 in the finals. “I have the championship ring. It’s awesome,” he adds. “I hope that I can come to the Valley and be a mentor to these players so that they too, can succeed.” Currently, Alaniz went 5-0 as a pitcher in Double AA in 2008 and he hopes that he will get called up this spring. “It’s every players dream to play in the major leagues,” says Alaniz.
Adrian Alaniz, MLB Washington Nationals In high school, Alaniz also led the Sinton Pirates to the State 3A Baseball title in 2002, shutting out Forney 5-0 and again, in 2003, the Pirates would make it back to the finals, losing to Lorena 3-2 in eight innings. In 2007, Alaniz went 9-0 with 56 strikeouts in 65 innings for the Potomac, the Single A farm club from Washington.
1st Annual Adrian Alaniz Baseball Camp include campers with MLB professional baseball player, Alaniz. (HSSM IMages)
> Send your scores and stats to David A. Amador, @ hssmonline@yahoo.com
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
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Pace Vikings Win Soccer Cup HSSM Soccer Preview
(Hidalgo, Texas)-The feisty head soccer coach from Brownsville Pace, Chico Jimenez vented his displeasure of having to play Valley View on their field turf last week during the New Year’s Soccer Tournament hosted by Hidalgo and Valley View High Schools. The resulted ended with a 1-1 tie after regulation but the Vikings would celebrate with a shoot out win over the Pirates 3-2 to advance to the finals. The Vikes then defeated La Joya Juarez-Lincoln 3-1 in the finals to win its first tournament of the year. Last year the Vikings lost in the first round of the 5A state playoffs to Edinburg Economedes 3-0. Jimenez watched his team fall behind after Hidalgo’s Jesus Jimenez scored a 30-yard kick from the
sidelines to put the Pirates up 1-0 before the half. The Pace Vikings are a much improved team and they will be favored to return to the state playoffs with hopes of reaching the regional finals again, as they did in 2006, losing to eventual state champion, Brownsville Porter. Teams to watch will be Porter, Valley View, Hidalgo, Juarez-Lincoln, La Joya Palmview. The Rio Grande Valley has watched two teams from Brownsville win state titles in (Lopez) 2004 and (Porter) 2006. The Brownsville Parks and Recreational recently opened it’s multi-million dollar field turf soccer complex. In the girls bracket, the McAllen Lady Bulldogs and Harlingen South Lady Hawks will be tough to beat in 2009.
Great Victory! Brownsville Pace won the New Year’s Soccer Invitational hosted by Hidalgo and Valley View High Schools sponsored by Television Deportiva. (HSSM IMages)
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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
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For more on golf go to: www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net
Boy’s 2000-2008 State Soccer Champions from the Rio Grande Valley 4A Brownsville Lopez 2004 defeated Brenham 2-1 5A Brownsville Porter 2006 defeated Coppell 2-1 (OT)
State Soccer Tournament appearances from RGV
4A Hidalgo (20-5-6) lost in semifinals to Wichita Falls (won title) 2-1 (1-0 SO) ‘07 5A Brownsville Rivera (20-6-6) lost in semifinals to Lewis ville Marcus 3-1 (won title) ‘07 4A Mission Veterans (18-6-3) lost in semifinals to El Paso Del Valle 1-0 (won title) ‘05 5A Brownsville Rivera (29-3-1) lost in semifinals to Klein 1-0 (won title) ‘05
Bi-District
Regional Semifinals
Roma 1 Weslaco East 2 Hidalgo 1 Mission Vets 0
New Braunfels 4 Hidalgo 3 Vista Ridge 1 Valley View 0
Area Championships
Girl’s 5A Playoffs Bi-District
Hidalgo 3 Uvalde 1 Mission 1 Flour Bluff 0 Weslaco East 3 GP 7 Valley View 6 SA South 0
Regional Qtrs
Valley View 4 GP 2 Hidalgo 1 Mission 0
Lar Johnson 1 McA Mem 9 PSJA 1 San Benito 0 Ed North 2 Los Fresnos 1 Lar United So 0 Shary 9 La Alexander 2 McAllen 5 Har South 9 Weslaco 0 Edinburg 0 Pace 1
Lar United 0 McA Rowe 4
Area Championships Rowe 1 Pace 0 (S0) McAllen 1 Har South 2 Ed North 2 Shary 1 (S0) PSJA 3 McA Mem 1
Regional Qtrs
Har South 7 Nikki Rowe 1 Edinburg North 2 Shary 1 (SO)
Regional Semifinals
SA Reagan 2 Harlingen South 1 SA MacArthur 5 Edinburg North 0
Girl’s 2000-2008 State Soccer Champions from the Rio Grande Valley None
State Soccer Tournament Appearances from RGV None
2008 Soccer Playoffs Class 5A-Boys Bi-District
Laredo Johnson 3 Rowe 2 Ed North 2 Bro Rivera 4 Harlingen 2 Bro Lopez 3 McAllen 2 Lar Martin 1 (OT) La Joya 2 Lar Alexander 0 Economedes 3 Bro Pace 0 PSJA 0 Bro Porter 6 Donna 5 Lar United 2
Area Championships
Lar Johnson 3 Bro Rivera 2 Bro Lopez 3 McAllen 1 Economedes 1 La Joya 2 Bro Porter 3 Donna 1
Regional Qtrs Finals
Bro Lopez 4 Johnson 3 (OT) La Joya 1 Bro Porter 0 (SO)
Regional Semifinals
SA Churchill 1 La Joya 0 SA Reagan 1 Bro Lopez 0 (SO)
Class 4A Boys
30-5A Donna Redskin soccer player Javier Hernandez hopes to lead his team to another State 5A Bi-District title in 2009. (HSSM IMages) > Send your scores and stats to David A. Amador, @ hssmonline@yahoo.com
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
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www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net
Soccer Feature
The Best of
Hidalgo’s Jesus Mireles, Top Junior National Socce
(Hidalgo, Texas)-The speedy junior forward spotted an opening from about 30-yards to the goal and then launched a powerful kick to score Hidalgo’s first goal against Brownsville Pace at the New Year’s Invitational Soccer Tournament at Bill Pate Stadium in Hidalgo recently. The kick blazed with so much speed, the goal-keeper reacted after the shot hit the top corner of the net. For Hidalgo forward Jesus Mireles, it was just another kick for his team and another flash back of the 2007 State 4A Semifinals. He was only a freshmen forward then, who led his team to Hidalgo’s first-ever state soccer tournament appearance at the Round Rock ISD Athletic Complex. That season, the Pirates posted playoff wins against Corpus Christi Moody, Weslaco East, Austin Lake Travis, and Austin Dripping Springs to advance. But their title run would end in the semifinals with a 2-1 (1-0 SO) loss to eventual State 4A Champion, Wichita Falls. “I want to make it back to state this year. We were so close. It still hurts, but now we have the same nine players back from that team now playing in 2009 with more experience,” says Mireles. Despite the numerous awards Mireles has received in two years, he is a total team player. “He’s special and plays this game as a true leader,” says Pirate head coach Zeke Morales. Mireles was named the Valley’s newcomer of the year, scoring 32 goals in 2007 to help lead the Pirates to their first-ever District 32-4A crown. Most importantly, he has attracted numerous of college attention after playing on the 2006 U.S. Under-15 Boys National Team. “I have traveled the world. I have been to Europe and many other parts of the United States playing with U.S. National Soccer Teams. I’m only a junior. Maybe one day I will play professional soccer,” adds Mireles. Last year, the Pirates lost the district title crown in their final game of the season but advanced to round four against New Braunfels Canyon, before losing 4-3 in the Class 4A Regional semifinals after defeating Mission, Uvalde, and Mission Veterans Memorial. “More players are coming out for soccer. They are getting bigger and physical,” says Mireles. The Pirates will now compete in the new 61-4A District along with Mission, Valley View, Mission Veterans, Roma, and La Joya Lincoln-Juarez in 2009. “This will be a tough district and our team should be ready to contend for another title,” added Mireles. With all the national attention this 16-year-old junior is receiving, he also understands that he must continue with his success in the classroom by maintaining his 3.2 GPA in order to move on to the college ranks or even professional soccer after high school. Mireles still dreams of one day playing on a professional soccer team from Mexico or Brazil but first, he wants bring home a state championship to the city of Hidalgo. “Soccer is big here in Hidalgo,” says the junior national soccer player. “We love soccer in Hidalgo.” 28
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f the“ Best
er Player
I’m only a junior. Maybe one day I will play professional soccer...
“
McAllen HS varsity golfer Eric Silva blasts a shot from the bunker on Hole No. 7 at the Palmview Golf Course in McAllen. (HSSM IMages) 30
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
January 15, 2009
Golfers Ready for Spring Rounds HSSM Golf Update
For more on golf go to: www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net
(McAllen, Texas)-The Rio Grande Valley high school golf seasons begin phase two of the year with spring competition, beginning with the Sharyland Invitational teeing off this weekend at the Shary Golf Course on Friday for the girls and the boys will play on Saturday, January 24th. Tee time is set for 8:00 a.m. The boys second round will resume on Monday at the Cimarron Golf Course in Mission. Head coach Fernando Rodriguez of Sharyland released the latest All-Valley Fall rankings for the boys with Sharyland High School senior Abraham Ancer taking the No.1 spot with an impressive 72.0 stroke average with eight rounds played. He also leads the 30-5A district with the top ranking. Matt Cadriel of Brownsville Hanna ranks No.1 in 32-5A with a 75.0 average while Erik Cubriel from 31-5A ranks No.1 and overall, follows Ancer with a 73.25 average. Ancer, the two-time defending district champion and twotime state 5A participant opened his season with a second place finish 71-72 at the Donna Invitational held at the Tierra Santa Golf course. Cubriel won the tournament with a 68-72 finish. The Sharyland senior would then win the first of his two tournaments at the Weslaco Invitational and then blistered the courses at Los Lagos (70) in Edinburg and Monte
Cristo Golf Club (68) to captured his second win. “It’s been a good year. I am comfortable playing,” says Ancer. The Top 20 players include Roman Robledo, Harlingen South (74.0); John Paul Cordova, La Joya (74.75); Brandon Reyna, Sharyland (75.25); Kalen Vos, Weslaco (75.86); Derrick Salinas, Edinburg (76.38); Garrison Lackey, Weslaco (76.50); Nick Rios, Edcouch-Elsa (77.0); Justin Esparza. Edinburg North (77.33); Carlos Pena, Sharyland (78.25); Alec Amador, McAllen Memorial (78.41); Robert Garza, Edinburg (78.50); Baldo Garza, Mission Veterans (78.50); Chad King, Harlingen South (78.75); Ricky Solis, McAllen (78.75); Jeff Hoover, Hanna (78.75); Ryan Hollander, Hanna (79.13); and Scott Van Tilburg, Weslaco (79.71).
TOP THREE RGV 5A DISTRICT GOLFERS
The Palms at Mid-Valley GC
32-5A: Matt Cadriel of Brownsville Hanna
Upcoming Golf Schedule Feb 5 Varsity Girls; Boys Feb 6-7at the Shary Golf Course PSJA Tourney-Boys at Tierra Del Sol Feb 20-21 PSJA Tourney-Girls at Tierra Del Sol Feb 23 Mercedes Tourney B/G Feb 27-28
31-5A: Eric Cubriel of Edinburg North
> Send your scores and stats to David A. Amador, @ hssmonline@yahoo.com
Rio Grande Valley Golf Coaches Association Championships Mar 6-7 at Pecan Valley GC-San Antonio, Tx
Pre-District 31-5A Championships
Mar 27-28 at Tony Butler GC
Pre-District 32-5A Championships
March 30th at Tierra Santa GC
Pre-District 30-5A Championships
March 30th at Martin Valley Ranch
30-5A: Abraham Ancer of Sharyland HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
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EXCLUSIVE HSSM INTERVIEW
MEET NCAA’S TOP GOLFE
WILL DUSTIN GARZA BE WOODS? THE WICHITA S HAS WON THREE STRAIG RANKS NO.1 WITH A 68. COLLEGIATE RECORD. H GENERATION OF HISPAN
BY DAVID A. AMADOR
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(HSSM IMages)
S
E BETTER THAN TIGER STATE JUNIOR GOLFER GHT TOURNAMENTS AND .21. BETTER THAN TIGER’S HE COULD BE THE NEXT NIC GOLFERS COMING...
ER
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(McAllen, Tx)-Sporting a new haircut, the former Sharyland sophomore at Sharyland High School. He reached out High School two-time district golf champion and now the to Carlos Espinoza, the PGA Professional at the Palmview top-ranked NCAA Division I golf player in the nation has his Golf Course in McAllen and Tiger Wood’s current golf sights on winning the NCAA Division I Championships to coach, Hank Haney. “My Mom was hard on me and she be held this May 27-30th at the prestigious Inverness Golf had the heated words to keep me moving forward, but Club in Toledo, Ohio.“It’s been a tough road to get here but she also helped me get the help I needed to go to the I have dedicated my life to golf. This is my sport,” says the next level,” says Garza. Wichita State junior, Dustin Garza. After making it to the State 5A Golf Championships with Garza won four NCAA tournaments in 2008, including his Sharyland team and finishing fourth as a team, Garza a current three-straight tournament streak and captured accepted a full scholarship to play golf for the Wichita the 2008 Golfstat Cup title’s No.1 spot with a 68.53 stroke State Shockers of the Missouri Conference and the legaverage after playing 15 rounds in the 2008 Fall Semes- endary head coach, Grier Jones. “He’s the best coach in ter. Previous collegiate winners were current PGA profes- golf and he’s very demanding but he knows golf,” said sionals Charles Howell (69.57), Hunter Mahan (70.62), Luke Garza. His coach has led the Shockers to seven conferDonald (70.45), and of course, Tiger Woods (70.61) stroke ence titles from 1999-2006, along with four straight average in 1995-96.“This has been fun and staying focus is NCAA Regional appearances from 2001-2005, advancing the biggest factor with playing golf. The only person who twice to the NCAA Championships in 2003 and 2004 in is the strongest mental player is Tiger Woods. He’s tough his 13 seasons at Wichita State. College life and golf has become very demanding. Garto beat and I hope I can be mentally tough too,” says the za says that his days are spent in the classroom till noon former UIL Class 4A Bronze medalist. As a sophomore, Dustin won his first collegiate tourna- and then he races off to practice with his team till the sun ment in 2008 at the Callaway Golf Invitational held this goes down. He has enjoyed the trips from one tournapast March at the Farms Golf Club in San Diego, California. ment to another. But adds, that having a social life could He fired three rounds of 71-69-70 to finish 6-under par to prove to be devastating to any golfer’s mind. “This game win.“It was a big relief to get this monkey off my back. Win- is a mental game. Any distractions with your personal life ning your first college tournament is awesome. Words can- by having girlfriends or buddies that want to party could end your game on the course,” says Garza. “ I have seen a not explain how I felt,” said Garza. Since then, the Wichita State Shocker golfer has been on a lot of players fail because of this. His focus has paid off too. During his freshmen season, tear winning three straight tournaments and placing sechomesick, Dustin ond twice in his first five completed his year tournaments entered with a 72.813 averthis past fall semester. age and was named Most interesting, he shot Missouri Confera career best 61 at the ence Newcomer Sycuan Collegiate Inviof the Year. He also tational to earn his third Dustin Garza tied for first on the straight win hosted by former Sharyland H.S. golfer team at the NCAA San Diego State UniverCentral Regional sity. Garza started off the first day with a 71 and then the birdies started to fall on Championships where he posted a score of 232. Garza Day 2. “I flirted with a 59 in the back nine, but finished with also finished second in the 2008 State Farm Missouri a 61,” added Garza. He would end this tournament with a Conference Golf Championships, leading his team to a personal best three-day total score of 200 and a 16- under first place finish and title. He finished with scores of 7072-70 to end his sophomore season. Garza was named tournament score. Garza says that it has not been easy. He started playing to the all-conference team in 2008. In 2007, the Shockgolf since the age of five years old and was home schooled ers finished second in the conference with Garza being as a freshmen before entering the high school ranks. “I named MVC Newcomer of the Year 2007. Currently, his Shockers are ranked 23rd in the nation wanted to quit golf. I was frustrated with the game. When I told my Mom that it was over, it was her tears that made by Golfweek/Sagarin Performance Index and Garza says me change mind. I never had seen her cry,” added Garza. his team could make it to the NCAA Championships. “My “My Mom (Nancy) has been my driving force along with teammates are dedicated and we are looking forward to my Grandpa (Burnette Noble). They have invested a lot of this spring season.” Wichita State team members include money getting me from one tournament to another. My Brad Boan, Christian Spencer, Connor McHenry, Grady Dad (Roy) was the person who always told me like it is.” Pauls, Zac Potter, Lars Haakonsen, and Ty Sanders. Dustin decided to take his game to another level as a
“I wanted to quit golf. I was frustrated with the game...”
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AT WICHITA STATE...
>SHOCKING THE NATION DUSTIN GARZA’S
>RECORD 2008 BOOK ALDILA INTERCOLLEGIATE University of Tennessee-Chattanooga September 8, 2008 2nd place-69-69-67=205 (-11) JIM COLBERT INTERCOLLEGIATE KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY September 22, 2008 2nd place-73-72-72=217 (-1) VCU SHOOTOUT VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY September 29, 2008 1st place-66-66-69=201 WOLF PACK CLASSIC UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA OCTOBER 6, 2008 1st place-67-65-73=205 SYCUAN COLLEGIATE INVITATIONAL SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY October 20, 2008 1st place-71-61-68=200 (-16) CALLAWAY GOLF INVITATIONAL THE FARMS COUNTRY CLUB SAN DIEGO, CALIF March 11, 2008 1st place-71-69-70=210
(HSSM IMages)
4 NCAA WINS (2008) 4 TOP 10s (2008) NCAA Golfstat Cup (11/26/08) Standings-Ranked No.1 15 rds-68.53 avg