JACK WEAVER
MARK PAULE JR.
DAKARAI CHARLES
QB - EAST UNION
RB - SIERRA
QB - MANTECA
2015 MANTECA BULLETIN FOOTBALL PREVIEW
A2
Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
EAST UNION HIGH SCHOOL
READY FOR TAKEOFF
Experience gained from 2014 valuable for confident Lancers B y D A V E C AMP BEL L The Bu lletin
It is time to turn the page. After East Union went 1-9 in coach Willie Herrera’s first two seasons, the Lancers went 3-7 in 2014 — 2-5 in the Valley Oak League — and were a play or two away from a .500 season. Two of the games that stung Herrera the most were the 16-6 opening loss to Grace Davis (Modesto) and the 14-8 VOL loss to Weston Ranch. “It came down to a play here and a play there,” Herrera said of the 2014 campaign. “We went back and looked at every film and when we looked at Grace Davis we were reminded that three bad punt snaps led to two scores and that was the difference in the game. “Against Weston Ranch we came out flatter than a tire right out of the box. But we learn from those things and we told the kids to remember those things because it was not a good feeling and we don’t want to feel that way again.” Two of the players Herrera is looking to lead the Lancers to success this season are junior signal caller Jack Weaver and his favorite target last year, senior receiver Austin Miller. Weaver totaled 1,256 yards passing last season with 13 touchdowns and six interceptions. “The summer went well and practice has been going great,” Weaver said. “We went 10-2 in passing tournaments this summer and practice has been super competitive with a great vibe. “We are all working super hard this year and we all have the same goal — to make the playoffs. We have been working all offseason for it and every day in the weight room and every day out here. We want to give this school back its pride.” Miller pulled in 45 receptions in 2014 for 821 yards with nine touchdowns. “The summer went well,” Miller said. “We are looking to do good things this year. “We are all family and everyone gets along. We have fun during practice no matter from sprints to scrimmages.” Weaver and Miller lead a group of returners that includes seniors Baily Simons (tight end/outside linebacker); Nick Wade (offensive line/linebacker); Grant Yang (running back/ linebacker); Marcus Panelo (running back/defensive back) and juniors Joseph Reynaga (running back/ linebacker) and Angel Sena (running back/safety). Juniors Martin Garcia (offensive/defensive line); Jakes Harries (offensive/ defensive back); Isaiah Cormier (offensive/defensive back); Isaac Huffman (running back/linebacker);Andy Parcells (offensive/defensive line); Fernando Rodriguez
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Fifth-year head coach Willie Herrera addresses the East Union football team in practice. The Lancers were preparing for Friday’s season opener against Grace Davis of Modesto.
SCHEDULE Aug. 28 vs. Grace Davis Sept. 4 BYE Sept. 11 at Johansen Sept. 18 vs. Gregori Sept. 25 at Lathrop Oct. 2 vs. Sierra Oct. 9 at Weston Ranch Oct. 16 vs. Oakdale Oct. 23 at Kimball Oct. 30 vs. Central Catholic Nov. 6 at Manteca
(offensive/defensive line) and Deon Mackson (tight end/defensive end) will also look to contribute to the East Union effort. “We are excited,” Herrera said. “I think from the top down we are extremely excited to see what the pot of gold will be for all this work we have put in during the offseason. We wonder how big that pot will be.” While the mood of Lancers may be upbeat, Herrera realizes that the true test will begin Friday when Grace Davis comes to Dino Cunial Field. “When you talk to anyone about how their offseason program went, they will all say that things went good and improvements were made,” Herrera said. “But there is no way to know to truly tell how successful it was until game night. “We are so excited. As far as work ethic, they are second to none. They are hungry and second to none and want to work. It is not very often that after practice you have a group of kids asking for sprints. They just want more.” Lack of numbers at the varsity level forced Herrera to call up 13 sophomores in 2014.
ROSTER No. Name Position Grade 1 Joseph Pallib RB/DB Sr. 3 Isaiah Cormier RB/FS Jr. 4 Jake Harries RB/FS Jr. 5 Daniel Ramos WR/DB Sr. 6 Adrian Aflleje TE/DL Sr. 7 Adrian Sauceda RB/DB Jr. 8 Angel Sena RB/SS Jr. 9 Jack Weaver QB/FS Jr. 10 Baily Simons TE/OLB Sr. 11 Daniel Reed TE/OLB Jr. 12 Anthony Cook TE/DL Jr. 14 Marco Gonzales K/MLB Sr. 15 Austin Miller WR/DB Sr. 16 Rafael Diaz WR/DB Sr. 17 Audel Farias TE/DL Jr. 19 Rueben Gallegos TE/FS Jr. 20 EJ Pierce WR/OLB Sr. 21 Sean Cann TE/DB Sr. 22 Joseph Reynaga RB/MLB Jr. 23 Benji Medina WR/DB Jr. 24 Luis Perez TE/DL Sr. 25 Grant Yang RB/OLB Sr. 27 Luis Da Silva OL/ILB Sr. 28 Deon Mackson RB/DE Jr. 33 Patrick Sholund RB/DB Jr. 34 Marcus Panelo RB/DB Sr. 37 Isaac Huffman RB/MLB Jr. 42 Apollo Holmes TE/DE Sr. 52 Nick Wade OL/DE Sr. 53 Alan Huerta OL/DL Sr. 54 Justin Byrd OL/DL Sr. 55 Fernando Rodriguez OL/DL Jr. 56 Tyler Reese OL/MLB Sr. 59 Pete Roblero OL/DL Jr. 63 Daniel Huerta OL/DL Sr. 68 Andy Parcells OL/DL Jr. 72 Jose Vargas OL/DL Jr. 74 Cole Christensen OL/DL Sr. 77 Ceasar Vaca OL/DL Jr. 79 Martin Garcia OL/DL Jr. 80 Scott Morenzone TE/DL Jr.
“These kids know what the VOL is about,” Herrera said. “We had 13 sophomores up on the varsity last year and they got a taste of the VOL and varsity. “This junior class was 7-3 as freshman and enjoyed some early success last season as sophomores and then we had the craziness with injuries so we had to pull all those guys up.” Herrera believes the exposure to the varsity as sophomores will reap rewards. “They have great attitudes and mental toughness” Herrera said. “They want it and they have something to
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
ABOVE PHOTO: Jack Weaver turns to hand the ball off as the East Union offense works on its plays. BELOW PHOTO: Running back Grant Yang scoots away from the defense.
prove. They know they are not the young kids on the block any more and it is nice to have juniors who have already had a year of varsity. They are ahead of the curve with our offense and defense. “This will be an outcome based on how hard the coaching staff has worked and in the last few years taking our lumps and setting our foundation and hopefully it will pay off with some W’s.” Herrera hopes to turn frustration into success. “The guys are tired of it,” Herrera said. “They are tired of hearing about how they are going to compete for the bottom tier of the VOL. They are tired of hearing that and know that they have to win to get to that next level and they want that
challenge. “But they know it’s going to be tough.” East Union’s non-league schedule will continue Friday, Sept. 11 with a tripleheader at Johansen-Modesto
and wrap up Friday, Sept. 18 with a home game against Gregori. The Lancers begin the VOL campaign on the road Friday, Sept. 25 at Lathrop.
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Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
A3
RISING IN THE FALL
u
MANTECA HIGH SCHOOL
Younger Buffs to be put to the test in October B y D A V E C AMP BEL L The Bu lletin
One for the thumb? With four Sac-Joaquin Section titles – three of which came under current coach Eric Reis – Manteca would like to add a fifth blue banner to the trophy case. But playing in the Valley Oak League, just getting into the playoffs can pose a challenge. “Our league is really good,” Reis said. “It forces you to get better or get beat.” Coming off a 5-2 VOL record and 9-3 overall 2014 record, the month of October will be a watershed month for the Buffaloes with three championship teams to work through. Manteca faces defending VOL co-champions Sierra (Oct. 9) and Oakdale (Oct. 30), with those two games sandwiched around a tilt with defending CIF state Division IV champion Central Catholic (Oct. 16). “Hopefully by that time our younger players will be seasoned enough to be ready for that kind of a test,” Reis said of the October juggernaut awaiting Manteca. “And that’s what it will be playing those teams – a true test.” When a normal August can bring temperatures well north of 100 degrees, the weather has been relatively mild for the beginning of football season, and Reis is pleased with opportunities the missing San Joaquin Valley heat has afforded his squad. “It has been good kind of figuring out who can play and who can’t play,” Reis said. “But the weather has been so crazy. To think it is August and it has been 88 or 89 degrees a lot of the time – it has allowed us to do a lot more. Usually the heat is such that you can’t get a lot of stuff in. “Also, it has allowed us to do more conditioning because the heat has not shut us down. In years past it has just been so hot you just can’t do things so it’ll be interesting to see how that plays out. ” Gone from last year’s team, which went 5-2 in the VOL and 9-3 overall and was eliminated with a sixpoint SJS semifinal playoff loss to visiting Sacramento, are two-way linemen Steven Martinez and Darrell Clemons along with running back Hector Soto and wide receiver/defensive back Luis Reyes. Leading a key group of returners is senior quarterback Dakarai Charles who had 1,075 yards passing in 2014 with 14 touchdowns and just three interceptions. “This is my second year at varsity quarterback,” Charles said. “I am getting used to things and even thought things are a lot faster, it is also a little easier because my teammates are helping me and pushing me.
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Darrion Kitson bolts through the line of scrimmage. Already a standout linebacker, the 6-foot-3, 240-pound bruiser is expected to have more of an impact for the offense this season.
SCHEDULE Aug. 28 vs. Buhach Colony Sept. 5 at North Monterey County Sept. 11 at Enochs (Downey) Sept. 18 BYE Sept. 25 vs. Kimball Oct. 2 at Weston Ranch Oct. 9 at Sierra Oct. 16 vs. Central Catholic Oct. 23 vs. Lathrop Oct. 30 at Oakdale Nov. 6 vs. East Union
“We are just working on getting better for August 28.” Senior strong safety Marcus Rivas had 63 tackles in 2014 with two interceptions and will also be spending time at running back. “Practice is going good,” Rivas said. “We are trying to get better. Everyone is pushing each other. “It is looking good right now and we are looking forward to the competition this year because there will be a lot of good teams. Also returning for Manteca will be senior running back/fullback Darrion Kitson, senior wide receiver/ defensive back Ronald Tijero and senior two-way lineman Elijah Root-Sanchez. Some newcomers of note are senior defensive back/ wide receiver Damon Lynch, senior wide receiver Jacob Menasco, senior defensive lineman Javaun Dunn and junior running back/defensive back Cameron Beamon. Reis has four sophomores on the varsity squad: twoway linemen Kyle Reis, Justin Kakala, quarterback/ defensive back Gino Campiotti and running back/line-
ROSTER No. Name Position Grade 2 Ronaldo Tijero WR/DB Sr. 3 Gino Campiotti QB/DB So. 4 Jose Garcia WB/DB Jr. 5 Damon Lynch WR/DB Sr. 7 Darrion Kitson RB/LB Sr. 8 Dakarai Charles QB/DB Sr. 9 Andrew Thomas WR/DB Jr. 12 Jake Menasco WR/FS/SS Sr. 14 Charles Mitchell WR/CB Jr. 15 Harold Lopa WR/DB Sr. 21 Andrew Rosas WR/DB Sr. 22 Marcus Rivas RB/LB Sr. 24 Kameron Beamon RB/DB Jr. 25 Jacob Tolbert TE/LB Jr. 26 Michael Sarmento WR/FS Jr. 28 Gerson Gomez WB/DB Jr. 30 Rodney Rodriguez WR/CB Jr. 31 Devyn Gonzalez RB/LB Jr. 32 Angel Montoya RB/CB Jr. 33 Desmond Lewis WR/DB Sr. 34 Domingo Vargas OL/DL Jr. 40 Hjalmar Sanchez RB/DB Sr. 42 Mario Gonzalez RB/LB Sr. 43 Austin Welch OL/DL Sr. 44 Ferrin Manuleleua RB/LB So. 45 Eliijah Willis RB/LB Sr. 50 Sam Rohovit OL/DL Sr. 51 Francisco Cebreros OL/DL Sr. 54 James Thomas RB/FB/MLB Jr. 55 Javaun Dunn OL/DL Sr. 58 Tyler Welch OL/DL Jr. 60 Luis Nieto OL/DL Sr. 61 Justin Kakala OL/DL So. 62 Elijah Root-Sanchez OL/DL Sr. 66 Daniel Brand OL/DL Sr. 70 Kyle Reis OL/DL So. 71 William Maddox T/DT Jr. 72 Gagandeep Chouhan G/DT Jr. 74 Austin Klinesmith T/DT Jr. 75 Angel Pulido G/DT Jr. 76 Marcus Gaytan NG Jr. 77 Mathieu Maddox OL/DL Sr. 78 Tito Tafoya OL/DL Sr. 80 Eddie Santos TE/LB Jr. 81 Joshua Griffin WR/DB Sr. 84 Julio Defreitas TE/LB Sr. 85 Nelson Arellana TE/MLB Jr. 85 Nelson Orellana TE/LB Jr. 87 Jacob Gonzalez G/DT Jr. 88 Juan Paniagua DT Jr.
backer Ferrin Manuleleua. “The tempo is a lot higher this year then it was last year,” Manuleleua said. “It is just way different from freshman to varsity. “The linemen are stronger, faster and quicker off the ball.” Coach Reis looks for his team to improve as the year
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goes on. “Hopefully we are getting better every week,” Coach Reis said. “Because when we are good, we get better as the season goes on. This year will be a true test if we can pull that off.” That true test begins Friday when Manteca hosts Buhach Colony. The Buffaloes then play a rare Saturday afternoon game on Sept. 5 at North Monterey County and will close the nonleague schedule on the road Friday, Sept. 11 at Downey in Modesto against Enochs. With the week zero game against Buhach Colony, the Buffaloes earn a bye Sept. 18. Their league opener is at home against Kimball on Friday, Sept. 25 and then they have a short trip to Weston Ranch on Friday, Oct. 2 before beginning their October juggernaut.
DODGE
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
MIDDLE PHOTO: Marcus Rivas (25) catches his breath on the sidelines with his teammates. ABOVE PHOTO: Eric Reis, Manteca’s all-time winningest head coach, gets the defense organized with help from lines coach Dan Eavenson.
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A4
Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
SIERRA HIGH SCHOOL
RELOADE D
Despite heavy losses, VOL co-champs ready for title defense By J A SO N C AMP BEL L The B u lletin
Last year, Mark Paule Jr. put up the kind of statistics that most players wish they could accrue in an entire high school career. He managed to post more than 2,000 yards, scored 45 touchdowns and did it all during his junior season. And now he’s back and hoping to put up similarly mind-blowing numbers to help the Sierra Timberwolves make a statement in the increasingly difficult Valley Oak League this year – battling the likes of intracity rival Manteca, perennial powerhouse Oakdale and small-school state champion Central Catholic. It’ll be a tough road, but with a strong returning cast and the emergence of several young leaders Sierra seems to be on its way to another winning season. “Anytime that you have that experience of playing in a tough league it’s a benefit,” said head coach Jeff Harbison, who led Sierra to its second co-championship last season. “We were fortunate to have some young guys get some postseason experience last year and that makes a huge difference. “You can’t recreate that environment and knowing that they’ve been there and helped us get there is a huge asset.” Leading the pack this offseason is junior defensive back SeuSeu Alofaituli who has become a vocal locker room leader and an imposing presence for quarterbacks looking for a deep receiver or a shallow crossing route. He’ll be assisted in the defensive backfield by Nashon Tamiano and Marcos Castillo, both safeties, as well as Tim Brown and Daniel Wyatt. A total of six starters will be returning on the defensive side of the ball for Sierra. “It took me a while last year to adapt to the speed and the size of the guys who played varsity,” Alofaituli said. “It seems like this year things have slowed down a little bit and I’ve found myself moving much better and adapting to the things that are going on around me. “I feel good about where we are as a team right now. We know that there are teams in the VOL that are going to have a lot of players returning and we lost a lot of players to graduation – those teams are going to bring it like they always do. But we’re going to be ready.” Sierra’s base packages – a spread formation on offense and a 4-2 defense – will once again serve as the cornerstone of the play calling. The team will be without star quarterback Devin Nunez and receiver Hunter Johnson but will return massive two-way lineman Joshua Fala to protect quarterback Mark Vincente and Paule Jr.
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Sierra runs offensive drills in preparation for its season opener against visiting Ripon. The Timberwolves begin their Valley Oak League co-title defense Oct. 25 at Oakdale.
SCHEDULE Aug. 28 vs. Ripon Sept. 4 at Central Valley Sept. 11 vs. Lodi Sept. 18 BYE Sept. 25 at Oakdale Oct. 2 at East Union Oct. 9 vs. Manteca Oct. 16 vs. Kimball Oct. 23 at Central Catholic Oct. 30 vs. Lathrop Nov. 6 vs. Weston Ranch
who will once again be in there to carry the ball. “I think that as a team we’ve come together very well this offseason,” Paule Jr. said. “We’ve got the practice squad out there making the starting squad better and everybody is working together to get better as a whole. “I think that our defensive mentality this year will be a strength and even though we have an offensive line that’s different than what we had last year, there are guys like Josh Fala who are out there making sure that everybody is doing their job and that makes things run that much faster. I feel good about where we are right now as a team.” As for the competition that Sierra will end up facing this year, Paule Jr. – who, despite having a record-breaking season and earning Bulletin All-Area MVP honors was passed over for all-league specialty honors – is just trying to take things one step at a time. “We put a lot of effort in as a team and we need to be ready for anything that can come our way,” he said. “The VOL is a league where anything can happen on any given night. We just need to take things week-by-week and play the kind of football that we know that we can play.”
2 3 4 5 7 9 10 12 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 23 24 25 26 30 31 32 33 40 41 42 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 70 71 72 73 74 75 77 78
ROSTER
Tim Brown WR, SS Daniel Wyatt WR, CB Jimmy Galindo WR, CB Manuel De Avila Enrique Jasso MLB, TE Seuseu Alofaituli FS, RB Jesse Babauta Mark Vicente David Rodriguez Abraham Velasco Anthony Arredondo David Perry David Corona WR, CB Mark Paule Jr RB Marcos Castillo RB, SS Brandon Arreola RB, OLB Carlos Perez Anthony Salgado Tyler Fitch Jujhar Singh Kyle Wesley Geo Juarez WR Terrel Posey Leonardo Matthews Derek Rosendin Joseph Dunham Kody Justis Hector Alcaraz OLB, LS Edgar Villanueva DT, RB Josh Lee Andrew Guevara DE Scott Teicheira MLB Tommy Swanson DT, G Nashon Tamiano OLB, MLB Kamari Williams Joshua Fala T, DT Josh Jacobsen Leo Pimentel Kurtis Parrish Tevita Latu Jeremy Parente Noah Armstrong Robert Tavares Jesse Ochoa Dilpreet Singh Arnold Urbina SB David Westover Fernando Vega DT Will Christian Orlando Biggs Miguel Alvarez
Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr.
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Mark Paule Jr. ranks No. 3 among the nation’s top returning touchdown producers. He hit paydirt 45 times last season and rushed for 2,024 yards.
To contact reporter Jason Campbell emailjcmapbell@ mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
LEFT PHOTO: Joshua Fala, putting in work on the sled, is the area’s largest football player at 6-foot-6, 345 pounds. ABOVE PHOTO: First-year quarterback Mark Vicente lets it fly during a team camp at Stagg of Stockton over the summer.
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Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
A5
LATHROP HIGH SCHOOL
STARTING OVER AGAIN
First-year coach looks lay foundation for success By J A SO N C AMP BEL L The Bu lletin
It has been an offseason of steps for Lathrop head coach Joey Pirillo. The first step for the firsttime varsity head coach was to get his players to into the idea of a program – to give everything that they had for the furtherance of the “team” concept and put personal milestones and vendettas off to the side. He’ll find out on Friday just how concrete the footing for that first step truly is when the team hosts West High School of Tracy at Bennie Gatto Field. And if he was successful, then he’s got another big step to take with his group of talented young players: getting them to buy in to the idea that they can keep their success going. “I think that’s our biggest challenge so far this season is just getting the kids to buy in – to buy-in to the idea of the program,” Pirillo said. “And to get them to buy-in again when they get their first taste of success, to understand how it feels at that moment and to know that they have to work hard, as a team, if they want to keep that going. “Those are the foundations of a good football team.” Pirillo knows what it’s like to be a part of a winning football program. A Manteca High graduate who played for a section title under current head coach Eric Reis, Pirillo hopes on drawing from his personal experiences while harnessing the talent that exists within the infant program. But he’ll have his work cut out for him. Despite giving several teams a scare last season, Lathrop still finished with a dismal 2-8 overall record, coming nowhere near a postseason berth. Whether he can take the 7-3 sophomore squad that will now be playing its first collective year on varsity and turn it into something that fits within the ideals of the program remains to be seen. Nearly everything about the program from last season, when former West standout Steve Wichman was at the helm, has been transformed into something completely new. For one the offense will bank on its depth at the offensive and defensive lines to operate out of a Multiple I package out of the shotgun, and will rely on only three down defensive linemen in a 3-4 defensive scheme to free up linebackers to make plays at the line of scrimmage. And they’ll have some weapons. The line will be anchored by Rob Luckett (6-2, 300) and Brian Folgar (6-1, 260) to help give quarterback Diego Chavez (5-7, 180) and run-
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
ABOVE PHOTO: Joey Pirillo is Lathrop High’s girls head coach for varsity football. The Manteca graduate hopes to bring stability to the struggling program BELOW PHOTO: Quarterback Diego Chavez is back to lead the offense, which has been revamped to suit his strengths.
SCHEDULE Aug. 28 vs. West Sept. 4 at Liberty Ranch (Galt) Sept. 11 at Ripon Sept. 18 BYE Sept. 25 vs. East Union Oct. 2 vs. Central Catholic Oct. 9 at Oakdale Oct. 16 vs. Weston Ranch Oct. 23 at Manteca Oct. 30 at Sierra Nov. 6 vs. Kimball
ning back Jacob Devita (6-1, 215) the time and protection needed to spur the offense. The team will also add Jared Atkins (6-2, 250) to the offensive line to help give wide receiver Donald Garland (5-9, 200) the chance to break free into the secondary. R.J. Tisdell (5-8, 200) will provide an imposing presence in the defensive backfield. So far things have been clicking. When Lathrop saw its first live action at a team camp at Manteca High School Pirillo was impressed. He hopes that will carry over into Friday night – an extension of the “buy in” aspect that he has preached to his players ever since he first stepped foot onto the campus. “This a totally different program than what a lot of the returning players were used to or were expecting,” Pirillo said. “The key word in everything that we do here is discipline – these players are held accountable for everything that they do both on and off the field. And these players have bought in to what I’ve been teaching them about the game. “When I first got here you could only see the individu-
ROSTER No. Name Position Grade 2 Diego Chavez QB/RB Sr. 3 Brian Terrell RB/WR/CB Sr. 4 Alex Valencia SS/RB Sr. 5 Jacari Thompson RB/OLB Sr. 6 Ronald Patterson WR/CB Sr. 7 Anthony Santos WR/CB Jr. 8 Ikjot Thind CB/WR Sr. 9 Cameron Corner TE/MLB Sr. 12 Idowu Olaleye QB/OLB Jr. 15 Donald Garland WR/CB Jr. 16 RJ Tisdell RB/WR/FS Jr. 18 Isaias Hunter OLB/WR Jr. 21 Jordan Stewart RB Sr. 22 Tremayne Willis jr. RB/OLB Jr. 28 Jacob Devita RB/FB/MLB Sr. 30 Alfonso Belangel RB/CB Jr. 32 TJ Asuncion CB/WR Jr. 33 Prinston Fontenberry FB/MLB Jr. 41 Christian Allamby WR/CB Jr. 42 Bobby Walls TE/OLB Jr. 50 Devan King OL/DL Jr. 52 Cristian Basulto G/DT Jr. 53 Justin Corner WR/OLB Jr. 55 Luis Vargas G/DT Jr. 56 Kamari St. Leon DE Jr. 66 Nick Licea C/DT Jr. 68 Rob Luckett NG/T Sr. 72 Brian Folgar G/DT Sr. 73 Jared Atkins T/DE Jr. 75 Elijah Hunter XXX Sr. 78 Justin Ramos G/C Jr. 81 Eduardo Palacios TE/OLB Jr. 82 Karandeep Mann WR/FS Jr. 83 Josh Prasad WR/FS Sr. 84 Amu Omari WR/FS Jr. 88 Galven Munoz WR/CB Jr. 90 Benjamin Lindsey TE/OLB Jr.
als out there playing – there was no sense of together at all. But they’ve come so far this summer. Right now the guys are spending time away from the field with other players to foster that sense of team and we’ve got 48 or 49 guys on the roster right now – something that was unheard of just a few years ago. It has been quite the journey this summer, and we’ll see how far we’ve gotten on Friday. That’ll be the test.” To contact reporter Jason Campbell emailjcampbell@ mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.
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A6
Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
WESTON RANCH HIGH SCHOOL
STR3NGTH 1N NUMB3RS
Roster bolstered by burly linemen, depth B y D A V E C AMP BEL L The Bu lletin
SCHEDULE Aug. 28 BYE Sept. 4 at Edison Sept. 11 vs. Galt Sept. 18 vs. Grace Davis Sept. 25 at Central Catholic Oct. 2 vs. Manteca Oct. 9 vs. East Union Oct. 16 at Lathrop Oct. 23 vs. Oakdale Oct. 30 at Kimball Nov. 6 at Sierra
ing morale on campus. This has helped us direct our attention on the fundamentals of football and put our roots into the weight room.” Davis also has something he has not in previous year – a consistent coaching staff. “Something different in a positive way is that our entire varsity staff from last year is returning,” Davis said. “We have added a coach from the sophomore level but the consistency of coaches for the kids is great. “The amount of work that we put in over the summer will reflect in our competitive edge this season, and our league is arguably the best league in the valley.” Davis plans to use a spread/pro set offense with a 5-3 defense and will begin the season Friday, Sept. 4 on the road at Edison at 7:15 p.m. The Cougars have home games the following two weeks against Galt and Grace Davis before starting the VOL campaign on the road Friday, Sept. 5, at Central Catholic and will have the Battle of I-5 at Lathrop on Friday, Oct. 16.
ABOVE PHOTO: Third-year Weston Ranch coach Seth Davis gets the offense set up. BELOW PHOTO: At 6-foot-4, 305 pounds, Jamaree Lang gives Weston Ranch some needed girth on the offensive line. JONAMAR JACINTO/ The Bulletin
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ABOVE LEFT PHOTO: Defensive lineman Jacob Tatupu tries to shed the blocker as the play develops in front of him. ABOVE RIGHT PHOTO: Terry Snipes makes the pass downfield.
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If you are looking for the beef, look no further than the interior of the Weston Ranch High lineup. With seniors Chris Chavez (5-foot 11, 235 pounds), Xavier Sanchez (6-1, 255) and Jamarae Lang (6-4, 305) along with juniors Marslys Austin (6-1, 240), Jacob Tatupu (6-1, 255), Cordilliyo Pollard (6-1, 255) and Robert Wright (6-2, 300) ranging from 235 pounds to 300 pounds, returning standout running back Erron Duncan may be able to get lost behind the wall in front of him. “I am really excited to see what we can do this year,” Duncan said. “I really feel we can go deep in the playoffs with the new additions we have as well as with people picking up their grades. “I have not been used to a line like we are going to have this year. Most of our linemen have been smaller than me.” There will be beef in the backfield as well. Junior fullback/linebacker Andrew Farley (6-0, 205) will help open the holes for the Cougars. “This year is looking good for us,” Farley said. “We have all the pieces together and are building our brotherhood trying to be better than we were in the past.” Another big junior fullback/linebacker is Bryant Bowen Jr. (6-0, 205). “This year feels great,” Bowen Jr. said. “We are bonding as a brotherhood and as a team, both off the field and on the field. We are looking forward to the season and improving from last year.” Since the inception of the program in 2004, Weston Ranch has had one winning season and one .500 with two Valley Oak League wins five of the last six seasons. According to head coach Seth Davis, the Cougars will have a new persona this season, and the journey toward that persona did not begin with summer workouts – things changed course in January. “There is a big-time different feel out here this year,” Davis said. “It started back in January with guys getting their grades right and carried it through to the summer. “We have 42 guys on the roster and we have a lot of athleticism with some big guys up front. But we are still young with a lot of work to do. We are integrating our sophomore team into the process and practicing both levels together but like I said, the feel is completely different.” Two years ago, Weston Ranch implemented a yearround study hall. “By going to a year-round study hall we changed our academics drastically,” Davis said. “Our numbers are up and we have increas-
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Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
A7
PRESEASON ALL-AREA TEAM OFFENSE
QUARTERBACK Jack Weaver (Jr.), East Union Weaver fared admirably his sophomore year, compiling a 53.8 completion percentage, 1,256 yards and 13 touchdowns against six interceptions. He was also the Lancers second-best rusher with 258 yards, and three scores. He led the Lancers to a 10-2 record in 7-on-7 tournaments over the summer and gets to throw to the area’s top returning receiver in Austin Miller. Others to watch: Dakarai Charles (Sr.), Manteca; Nick Price (Sr.), Ripon.
(Sr.), Weston Ranch.
RUNNING BACKS Eric Duncan (Sr.), Weston Ranch One of the area’s fastest athletes, Duncan flashed his game-breaking ability in spots during his junior campaign but mostly struggled to get into space because of a depleted line. This year, the Ranch may have its biggest group of linemen in terms of both size and depth, so Duncan should have more room to roam. Mark Paule Jr. (Sr.), Sierra The 2014 Manteca Bulletin All-Area MVP will be hard-pressed to match his monster junior season that included 2,024 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns. Only one lineman returns, and the effective QB-WR combination of Devin Nunez and Hunter Johnson are gone. There is no denying the talent, however, so expect another big year from Paule. Others to watch: Brian Sytsma (Sr.), Ripon Christian; Angel Sena (Jr.), East Union; Jacob Devita (Sr.), Lathrop.
OFFENSIVE LINE Tyler Driesen (Sr.), Ripon Christian Driesen is one of several 300-pound giants roaming in the area this season. He enters his third campaign as the centerpiece of RC’s physical and experienced offensive line. He earned praise from his coach for his hard work and improvement in the offseason. Joshua Fala (Sr.), Sierra Easily the Manteca area’s most imposing athlete in recent memory, the 6-foot-6, 345pound Fala has taken on a leadership role as the lone returning offensive lineman. He’ll again be relied upon to pave the way for 2,000-yard rusher Mark Paule Jr. Martin Garcia (Jr.), East Union The Lancers will have some size in the trenches in 2015, but none bigger than their 6-foot-3, 300-pound center. Garcia gained valuable experience as a mid-season sophomore call-up and got to scrap with the bigs from cross-town rivals Sierra and Manteca. Elijah Root-Sanchez (Sr.), Manteca For a second straight season, the Buffaloes will have an entirely new starting five anchoring the offense. Root-Sanchez, strapping at 5-foot-10, 260 pounds, has the most experience after earning a few spot starts and playing time as a top reserve last season. Tristan Smith (Sr.), Ripon An intriguing varsity newcomer after missing his entire junior season, the 6-foot-1, 270-pound Smith is the Bulletin’s reigning All-Area Wrestler of the Year. The standout heavyweight placed third in the SJS Masters Tournament and went 2-2 at state. Others to watch: Eron Roen (Sr.), Ripon Christian, Jamaree Lang (Jr.), Weston Ranch; Brian Folgar (Sr.), Lathrop.
WIDE RECEIVERS Austin Miller (Sr.), East Union Jack Weaver’s favorite target is back. The sure-handed Miller, who stands 6 feet, 2 inches, was statistically the area’s second most productive receiver last season. Of the 86 passes thrown by Weaver, 45 were caught by Miller for 821 yards and nine touchdowns. Daniel Wyatt (Sr.), Sierra The athletic Wyatt (20 catches, 287 yards, 4 TDs) is the No. 1 receiver by default in Sierra’s prolific spread offense, as the team’s top two pass catchers graduated. Wyatt, though, does have some big receptions under his belt, and he starred as the point guard on Sierra’s SJS championship basketball team. Others to watch: Ethan McMurray (Sr.), Ripon Christian; Aaron Paschini (Jr.), Ripon; Jake Menasco (Sr.), Manteca; Zach Sims
TIGHT END Baily Simons (Sr.), East Union At 6-foot-3, 225 pounds, Simons gives second-year junior QB Jack Weaver another big target in what could be an explosive passing attack. Simons will look to make up for lost time after he was one of the Lancers’ many injury casualties last season. Others to watch: Ty Beidleman (Jr.), Ripon Christian.
DEFENSE
DEFENSIVE LINE Javaun Dunn (Sr.), Manteca Dunn (6-2, 225) will have a more prominent role in the defense after seeing time as a reserve a season ago. He did show some play-making ability on the defensive side and special teams, contributing an interception, fumble recovery, forced fumble and blocked field goal. Will Kamps (Sr.), Ripon Christian With eyes from Division I and II programs on him, this impressive 6-foot1, 235-pounder recorded 36.5 sacks the past two seasons and is the Southern League’s 2014 Defensive Player of the Year. Offenses must game plan for Kamps, who plays every spot in RC’s defensive front. Rob Luckett (Sr.), Lathrop Luckett is a big presence in the huddle because of his leadership qualities, personality and 6-foot, 300-pound frame. His stamina will be tested all season since the Spartans lack depth in the trenches, but he’ll be a handful for opposing teams on both sides of scrimmage. Others to watch: Cody Beato (Sr.), Ripon; Jacob Tatupu (Jr,), Weston Ranch. LINEBACKERS Darrion Kitson (Sr.), Manteca At 6-foot-3, 240 pounds, Kitson is a physical specimen who is sure to command the attention of opposing offenses. He finished with 51 tackles and five sacks last season. Those numbers should rise this season, and don’t be surprised if he’s a force on offense as well as the hard-hitting fullback. Enrique Jasso (Sr.), Sierra After playing second fiddle to All-Area and Valley Oak League Defensive Player of the Year Trevon McCray, Jasso (6-0, 235) gets his chance to be the top dog in the Timberwolves’ 4-2 defense. He had 51 tackles and forced two fumbles in 2014. Joseph Reynaga (Jr.), East Union Proved he belong at the varsity level as a sophomore after getting the nod midway through the season. He needed just six games to lead the Lancers’ in tackling with 48 and was named to the All-Valley Oak League first team. Matthew Ysit (Sr.), Ripon The younger brother of former offensive dynamo Michael Ysit, Matthew made
a name for himself as of the area’s top defensive players last season. His 89 tackles and 4.5 sacks paced all Ripon players, and he also had two forced fumbles and two recovered. Others to watch: Bryant Bowen (Jr.), Weston Ranch; Isaac Huffman (Jr.), East Union; Cody Haines (Sr.), Ripon; Nashon Tamiano (Jr.), Sierra; Seth Silveira (Sr.), Ripon Christian. DEFENSIVE BACKS SeuSeu Alofaituli (Jr.), Sierra An All-Valley Oak League first-team selection as a sophomore, the hard-hitting Alofaituli was Sierra’s third-leading tackler with 59 stops despite missing two games with injuries. He was also second on the squad with six pass deflections. Marcus Rivas (Sr.), Manteca Manteca’s symbolic “shepherd stick” was passed on from one safety to another. Dominic Pisano, the Buffs’ leading tackler and starting free safety a year ago, handed it off to Rivas, who was second to Pisano with 63 stops to go with two interceptions. Ronaldo Tijero (Sr.), Manteca The long-armed Tijero may have been the area’s top cover corner in 2014 after he deflected 12 passes and picked off three others. He was also QB Dakarai Charles’ go-to receiver in the red zone, as he had 23 catches and seven TDs — both teamhighs. Others to watch: R.J. Tisdell (Jr.), Lathrop; Damon Lynch (Sr.), Manteca; Tim Brown (Sr.), Sierra. UTILITY/SPECIAL TEAMS Marcos Castillo (Jr.), Sierra One of Sierra’s three starting sophomore safeties last season, Castillo led the area with five interceptions. Offensively, he saw time at running back, was the backup quarterback and shared placekicking duties with Marissa LaQuaglia. Jacob Duxbury (Sr.), Ripon With Ryan Fugit graduated, Duxbury has a chance to shine in a leading role for the Indians. Last year, he was the team’s top receiver (364 yards, 2 TDs), secondleading rusher (581 yards, 7 TDs) and a threat on special teams. Also had 41 tackles while playing cornerback on defense.
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A8
Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
TEN GAMES TO WATCH ZERO WEEK
Friday, Aug. 28 Ripon at Sierra: Ripon is sure to have last year’s 54-7 beatdown administered by the Timberwolves fresh on its mind heading into the 2015 opener. The loss set the tone for a 3-7 campaign marked by discouraging losses to top-caliber teams. Sierra, on the other hand, went on to claim a share of its second Valley Oak League title, and it was arguably the most talented team assembled at the school. The Timberwolves had a lot of their top playmakers on both sides of scrimmage graduate, while Ripon is loaded with seniors looking to get the program back on track after successful seasons from 2011-13. A revenge win against a young, albeit still-talented Sierra team could help the Indians put their nightmare 2014 season behind them.
WEEK 3 Friday, Sept. 18 Gregori at East Union: A good litmus test for East Union one week before the start of Valley Oak League play. Last year, the deeper and athletic Jaguars of Gregori busted loose for 42 unanswered points after trailing 7-0 at halftime. Still, the Lancers had reason to be encouraged. Lacking depth to begin with, they had several key starters go down with injuries prior to and during the game. Both teams have high hopes for this season. Gregori has a talented QB-RB tandem in Cam Calton and Demetrius Vinson with a hulking line paving the way. The Lancers have potential with their core of juniors led by second-year QB Jack Weaver. If they can hang with or beat the Modesto Metro Conference contender, they’ll carry some positive momentum going into the rigorous VOL schedule.
Sonora at Ripon: No team in the Manteca area had as tough a schedule from start to finish as the Indians, and the only difference this year are the venues. Their gauntlet of revenge games resumes with Sonora, the class of the Mother Lode. Ripon was competitive in the 2014 affair at Sonora’s venerated Dunlavy Field, and the Wildcats held on for a 35-23 win. That was part of an 11-game winning streak for Sonora, which ended up losing to Central Catholic — the state’s eventual smallschool champion — in the Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV final. Ripon’s enrollment will likely keep in the Division IV-V range, so it will find out here if it has the goods to compete for a postseason title.
WEEK 4
WEEK 6
WEEK 7
WEEK 9
Friday, Oct. 9 Manteca at Sierra: Sierra again shares the spotlight with a neighboring adversary, this time driven by its lone regularseason loss from 2014. It was on Halloween night at Manteca’s mud-soaked Guss Schmeidt Field that the Buffaloes rumbled to a 34-20 triumph over much-favored Sierra — an 8-0 team that had already vanquished two others, Central Catholic and Oakdale, that had done the same to the team in green. It was statistically the worst game for Mark Paule Jr. (20 carries, 56 yards), one of the state’s top rushers and touchdown producers. Manteca leads the all-time series 14-6, but since 2008 no rivalry game in the area has been better. The Buffaloes are 4-3 since then but have won four of the last five.
Friday, Oct. 16 Central Catholic at Manteca: There was no game involving a Manteca-area team better than the Buffaloes’ overtime barnburner at Central Catholic last season. The Raiders — who were without standout sophomore RB Montel Bland — rode breakout star Justin Rice’s 129 yards and four touchdowns in a 29-28 win. Rice’s also punched in the winning points via a punishing 2-point conversion run. The lower-level games were just as exciting, as the Manteca sophomore squad dropped a 27-22 heartbreaker for its only loss of the season, and the freshmen prevailed, 14-13. Central returns, Bland, Rice and talented QB Hunter Petlansky and should be heavily favored to win league, but Manteca could have enough depth and experience at the skill positions to help produce another classic. Gustine at Ripon Christian: The Oct. 2 date with Le Grand and Oct. 30 meeting at Mariposa are undoubtedly big ones for Ripon Christian, which has developed healthy rivalries with both since joining the Southern League. The Knights, though, missed out on a chance to at least be part of a three-way share of the Southern League championship last season in part because of a surprising 23-7 loss at Gustine, which ended up placing fourth and one game behind RC. In what has become a competitive small-school league, Gustine may be the team to beat with a junior class that went 10-0 at the sophomore level joining senior QB Sebastian Figueroa and punishing RB/ LB Brandon Labry.
Friday, Oct. 30 Manteca at Oakdale: The defending Sac-Joaquin Section Division III Mustangs are usually in the mix for the Valley Oak League title this late in the season, and it might be for all the marbles Week 10 when they travel to Central Catholic. But first, they’ll have to get past their traditional rival. Last year they did so on the grandest of stages in Northern California, as league MVP Frankie Trent (33 carries, 223 yards, six TDs) helped Oakdale steam roll to a 42-21 victory at Levi’s Stadium. Manteca gave up home-field advantage for the opportunity to face Oakdale in Santa Clara. This time the Buffs travel to The Corral, where Manteca coach Eric Reis has beaten former Delta College teammate Trent Merzon just once since 2002. Escalon at Ripon: Escalon’s longtime mastery of Ripon ended in 2012 when the Indians surged to a thrilling 34-28 win that was part of a perfect regular-season run. They made it two straight with a 35-3 rout in 2013, marking a possible change in momentum in this traditional rivalry that had been one-sided since the 1990s. The Cougars slowed Ripon’s roll last season, scoring 14-unanswered points in the second half en route to a 14-9 triumph on its rain-drenched Engel Field. Ripon has a tough three-game stretch to cap the regular season, starting with reigning Trans-Valley League champ Modesto Christian in Week 8. The Crusaders and Cougars visit Stouffer Field on consecutive weeks, and then it’s on to Hughson, which blew out Ripon 42-21 in the 2014 season finale.
WEEK 5
Friday, Sept. 25 Sierra at Oakdale: The Valley Oak League schedule kicks off in a big way, as the reigning co-champions square off at The Coral where the Mustangs were undefeated last year. The 2014 showdown pitted to 6-0 teams, and the Timberwolves gained the inside track to the conference crown with a 31-20 victory. It’s only Sierra’s second win over Oakdale in 19 years. Oakdale went on to win seven straight games en route to a Sac-Joaquin Section Division III banner and an invitation to the CIF State Division II Northern California Regional Bowl Game. Sierra suffered two upset losses in its final five contests. Many of the top players in the 2014 contest have since graduated, but more than enough return for the rematch to have luster.
Friday, Oct. 2 Sierra at East Union: Both teams may feel like they have something to prove in this rivalry tilt. Sierra went into its 2014 homecoming game riding high off a 31-20 win over Oakdale that substantiated its status as an elite team in the SacJoaquin Section. At 7-0, the Timberwolves were expected to roll past 3-5 East Union, which “celebrated” a 35-21 loss. Coach Willie Herrera emphasized that he was not pleased with losing, but for a team reinforced by sophomore call-ups it fared better than most thought it would against the VOL’s frontrunner. More experienced and improved, the Lancers would like to finish this one off as the actual victors. The Timberwolves, winners of 11 straight over EU, may be motivated to show that the 2014 game was nothing more than a fluke.
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Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
WELCOME HOME No more hosting games on the road for Ripon Christian
B1
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
ABOVE PHOTO: Ripon Christian supporters join football coaches, administrators and players at midfield for a “Go Knights” cheer as the lights are turned on for the first time at the Ripon Christian Athletic Stadium. A soft opening was held to showcase what had been completed so far on Aug. 7. By V I N C E REMBUL AT The Bu lletin
When plans for the Ripon Christian Athletic Stadium were unveiled several years ago, the hope was it would be ready for the 2015 football season. “The (then) freshmen class would be the first to open this new stadium,” said Knights head coach Trey Ozenbaugh. Dreams do come true. Will Kamps, Travis Zuidervaart, Eron Roen, Seth Silveira and Ethan McMurrary are RC seniors who were among the freshmen back then. “That’s all we’ve talked about – as in who will make that first tackle or score that first touchdown,” Kamps said. One thing is certain: Ripon Christian will finally have a home field starting this year. This 1,300-seat outdoor facility was made possible by generous donors coupled with the hard work put forth by the Athletic Stadium Committee. The group drew inspiration by looking at other intimate football venues from throughout Northern California, including nearby St. Mary’s High and Lincoln High. During the summer open house, Bill Kamps, who is assistant coach as well as a committee member, called the nearly completed $1.2 million project “an asset to the school – it will be here long after we’re gone.” RC assistant coach Eddie Erdelatz is also a committee member. He, too, has worked closely with the project since its inception. Erdelatz pointed out that the stadium is not only state of the arts – an example
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
TOP LEFT PHOTO: Attendees of Ripon Christian’s open-house event begin to take their spots prior to a short ceremony. LEFT PHOTO: Pylons mark where a giant cross will be put in place at the Ripon Christian Athletic Stadium. ABOVE PHOTO: Kids play catch on the field with the two-story press box, still under construction at the time, in the background.
of that are the fiber optics hookups, Wi-Fi, and the sophisticated draining and irrigation system, using non-potable water – but the home field seating area is elevated some five feet above the playing field. There’s plenty of standing room with an overlooking mezzanine at both the home and visitor side of the field. The team room, meanwhile, was designed for the Knights to make their grand entrance. A rollout door to this building will allow for players to burst on to field surrounded by the support of the student body – an
open area was designed to provide ample space for them to cheer on the team. Will Kamps and others recently chipped in by helping out with the landscape. All told, 65 volunteers stepped up during a two-day period to put in some 850 plants and black bark in the planters in specific parts of the stadium. The scoreboard on the south end zone is already up and operating and will soon have a matching facade to go with the rest of the stadium. Another feature will be a large 50-foot cross with
lights shining on it just right of the scoreboard. “It’s the heart and soul of our school,” said Erdelatz during the summer open house. RC head coach Trey Ozenbaugh has greatly appreciated Ripon High, in particular, the use of Stouffer Field. The stadium across the way continues to go through various stages of renovation thanks to the Ripon Community Athletic Foundation. Stephanie and Vince Hobbs are behind the grass roots efforts that begin in 2007 to help turn this aging facility into the pride of the com-
munity. Most of the renovation is completed but new bleachers and restrooms – or about $1.5 million – are still needed to complete the project. Ripon Unified put in a total of $250,000 to the cause. Included was $150,000 that went towards the installation of all-weather surface track and $100,000 that’s being allocated to the stadium restrooms. RUSD has been exploring funding for various district facility needs, said RCAF President Stephanie Hobbs, who has been working yearround by advocating, applying
for grants and networking for that last stretch of funding. Back at RC, the plan was always about tying in the softball complex into the Athletic Stadium design, taking advantage of the restroom facilities and concessions there when spring sports roll around Future plans include a nearby water fountain feature and a 47-stall parking lot for players, coaches and their family to get to and from the team room. Another $75,000 is still needed to complete the project, according to the stadium group.
B2
Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
RIPON HIGH SCHOOL
BOUNCING BACK Indians motivated by forgettable 3-7 season By V I N C E REMBUL AT The Bu lletin
Nick Price experienced some highs and lows as quarterback for the Ripon Indians over the years. As a sophomore, he helped lead his squad to the post season with an 11-2 overall mark coupled with a Trans Valley League crown. A year ago, Price and his teammates endured a tough 3-7 campaign. “We struggled last year,” he said. “Everything went wrong – I do think it made us better.” The third year starter is certainly looking for better days. “I’ve worked out harder than ever during the summer,” said the 5-10, 200pound senior. “I think we all did What happened (a year ago) has helped us mature.” Indians coach Chris Johnson took notice of his team’s extra effort during the preseason. “These kids have worked hard all during the offseason so we’ll see how that plays out this year,” he said during a recent summer football camp. He’s entering his 11th season in charge of the RHS football program, compiling a 71-48 record in that span. No doubt, Johnson is looking to turn the page on the 2014 season. “That’s the worst record we’ve had since I’ve been the head coach (at Ripon High),” he said. “It doesn’t change anything – the schedule is the same and the teams are still the same.” The TVL could be a dog fight of a race with all five teams battling for contention. For the Indians, the tough part of their schedule could take place in late October. They’ll face defending TVL and section champion Modesto Christian and rival Escalon in back to back weeks. Both games will be played at Stouffer Field. Meanwhile, Ripon will have plenty of experience with 24 seniors on the roster. Along with Price, the key returners are running back Jacob Duxbury (5-11, 160), lineman Cody Beato (6-1, 210), wide receiver / defensive lineman Cody Haines (6-3, 190) and linebacker Matthew Ysit (5-7, 170). The Indians lost offensive linemen Matt Kaiser, Harrison Salvador and Robert Taylor from a year ago. They’ll have promising newcomers in running back / linebacker Matthew Dedonatis (5-11, 180), wide receiver / defensive back Aaron Paschini (5-11, 170) and lineman Tristan Smith (6-1, 270). That first game of the season for Ripon can’t get here fast enough. “There’s a chip on our shoulders,” Johnson said. “There was some embarrassment after what happened last year.” Price added: “I’m both anxious and nervous – but
B F P
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Ripon players rally together at the end of a recent practice session. After going 3-7 last year, the Indians are looking for a turnaround season starting with tonight’s nonleague contest at Sierra.
SCHEDULE Aug. 28 at Sierra Sept. 4 at Patterson Sept. 11 vs. Lathrop Sept. 18 vs. Sonora Sept. 25 vs. Sutter Oct. 2 BYE Oct. 9 at Hilmar Oct. 16 at Mountain House Oct. 23 vs. Modesto Christian Oct. 30 vs. Escalon Nov. 6 at Hughson
LEFT PHOTO: Andrew Wood gets his reps in at quarterback. BOTTOM PHOTO: Ripon’s offense rips off a big gain against Lathrop during Manteca’s team camp over the summer.
ROSTER No. Name Position Grade 1 Jack Nelson 2 Cody Haines WR, OLB Sr. 3 Aaron Paschini 4 Bryce Kinsey 5 Matthew Ysit 6 Andrew Durrer 8 Nick Price QB, FS Sr. 9 Brenden Fugit 10 Rhett Herrin 11 Jacob Duxbury RB, CB Sr. 12 Andrew Wood QB, CB Sr. 13 Justin Gunning 14 Corbin Nicholson 16 Raghuvir Singh WR, CB Sr. 17 Daniel Van lewen WR, SS Sr. 18 Caleb McCusker 20 Ryan Wilson 21 Michael Stanley Sr. 21 Myles Kinsey 22 Drake Vizcarra OLB, RB Sr. 23 Luis Candido 25 Matthew Dedonatis 27 Angelo Baciocco FB, MLB Sr. 29 Caleb Mccusker FB, MLB Sr. 31 Rhagvir Singh 32 Javier Hernandez RB, CB Sr. 44 Joseph Stevenson 50 Cody Beato Sr. 51 Emmanuel Reyes G, DE Sr. 52 Matthew Ysit MLB, FB Sr. 52 Nic Paschini 54 Kory Wengel 56 Lionel Reyes C, DT Sr. 58 Jacob Rhodes 59 Dyllan Heald 70 Tristan Smith 75 Steven Crescini T, DT Sr. 77 Kj Martinez G, DT Sr. 80 Andrew Gall WR, CB Sr. 82 Jacob Martin 82 Jacob Martin TE, DE Sr. 85 Lucas Johnston 88 Andrew Gall 89 Kevin Gunning
HIME ROMERO/ The Bulletin
I always feel like that at the start of every season.” To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, email vrembulat@ mantecabulletin.com.
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Veteran playmakers have high hopes after falling short in ’14 By V I N C E REMBUL AT The Bu lletin
The Knights will have several key returning players from last year’s 9-3 squad. Ripon Christian finished second in the Southern League while enjoying some shining moments in the postseason. The Knights traveled several hours away from home to come away with victory at Golden Sierra High. The following week, they lost to eventual Sac-Joaquin Section Division VI champion Capital Christian. Head coach Trey Ozenbaugh has plenty of optimism for the 2015 season. For starters, he has the league’s Defensive Player of the Year back in William Kamps. “(He) had a tremendous junior year as he led the Knights on both sides of the ball – sacks and tackles for losses,” Ozenbaugh said. He added: “Will continued to be a leader in the offseason with room, adding size and strength to his frame.” Kamps (6-2, 220 pounds), who earned first team AllSouthern League at defensive end, could be playing football at the next level. He’s been drawing interest from Division I and Division II college programs, according to Ozenbaugh. The RC coach had high praises for Travis Zuidervaart, who was a slot receiver last year as a junior and is being moved to quarterback. He takes over from Billy Marr, playing on a scholarship at Western State Colorado University. Other notable losses from a year ago include all-league Tight End Jared Stuit, allleague offensive lineman Jake Scholenberg, 2014 team MVP Kevin Kramer, and all-league offensive lineman Adam Mensonides. Ozenbaugh, meanwhile, has confidence in Zuidervaart. “Travis has a great knowledge of the game and we expect him to do a good job in leading our offense,” he said. At center, Tyler Driesen (6-3, 300) will anchor the offensive line. “He’s the big anchor of our O-line,” Ozenbaugh said. “Tyler had one of his finest off seasons in preparing for his senior year.” According to the coach, Eron Roen (6-2, 230) is technically one of the best linemen on the squad. “Eron’s play will be critical to our offensive success,” he said. “Defensively, he’s a great run stopper.” Seth Silveira (6-1, 185) at inside linebacker is a hardnosed intense player. “He’ll be called upon to carry and block (as a tailback/fullback) for our offensive backfield,” added Ozenbaugh. Silveira was a first team allSouthern League selection at linebacker last season. Ty Beidleman (6-3, 220) at tight end/defensive end/outside linebacker has the size
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Ripon Christian runs defensive drills as it prepares for tonight’s season opener with visiting Mountain House.
SCHEDULE
Aug. 28 vs. Mountain House Sept. 4 at Stone Ridge Christian Sept. 11 vs. Linden Sept. 18 BYE Sept. 25 at Orestimba Oct. 2 vs. Le Grand Oct. 9 at Waterford Oct. 16 vs. Gustine Oct. 23 vs. Denair Oct. 30 at Mariposa Nov. 6 at Delhi
and speed to create mismatches with RC’s offensive schemes. “He’s strong blocker and will be called upon to take a big role on defense this year,” the said head coach. Ethan McMurray (6-2, 180) enters his third year at the varsity level. He was first team allleague at wide receiver thanks to his great hands. McMurray, who is an outside linebacker, also covers plenty of ground on defense. Derek Dotinga (6-0, 175) is physically strong and deceptively fast at tailback / fullback / linebacker. “Derek is a gifted athlete who can be used in most of our skill positions,” said Ozenbaugh. “Defensively, he will be crucial to sealing the edge for us.” Jake Beukelman (5-10, 190) was called up to varsity last season. The offensive lineman / inside linebacker provided the Knights with depth while gaining varsity experience as a sophomore.
ROSTER No. Name Position Grade 1 Connor Mcgovern FB/TE/S Sr. 2 Willem Hoekstra FB/QB/OLB So. 3 Travis Zuidervaart QB/DB Sr. 4 Jake Groshong WR/DB Jr. 5 Ethan Mcmurray WR/OLB/TE Sr. 7 Derek Dotinga TB/FB/OLB Sr. 8 Jonah Lewis WR/DB Sr. 16 Brian Sytsma TB/WR/DB Sr. 25 Zach Cortwright TB/DB/QB Jr. 33 Seth Silveira FB/TB/S Sr. 44 Chad Kamper OG/DL/LB Sr. 50 Brian Thomas OL/DL Jr. 51 Will Kamps DE/OL/LB Sr. 52 Jake Beukelman OL/LB Jr. 53 Luke Nydam OL/DL Sr. 55 Brandon Vrieling DE/OL/DL Jr. 56 Michael Fisher OL/DL Sr. 60 Tyler Driesen OL/DL Sr. 65 Eron Roen OL/DL Sr. 66 Kizer Vanderveer OL/DL/LB Jr. 71 Fletcher Schmeidt OL/DL Sr. 78 Zach Mensonides OL/DL Jr. 80 Ty Beidleman TE/DE/OLB Jr.
“Jake worked very hard in the weight room this off season. We expect he’ll be a key contributor to our success this year,” said Ozenbaugh. Zach Cortwright (6-0, 155) is one of the key newcomers at wide receiver / defensive back. He played tailback at the lower levels but displayed great ability to battle for the ball at wide receiver during the seven-on-seven drills during the summer. “Zach will also be a key player in shutting down our opponents’ passing game from one of the cornerback positions,” said Ozenbaugh. He also praised Brandon Vrieling (6-0, 180) at offensive line/defensive line/outside linebacker.
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Reigning Southern League Defensive Player of the Year Will Kamps zeroes in on the ball carrier. He is drawing attention from Division I and II programs after recording 36.5 sacks the past two years.
“Brandon will provide some depth on both sides of the ball,” the RC coach said. “He’s very coachable and an intelligent player.” Ozenbaugh, who is also the offensive coordinator, will again be helped out on the sidelines by his staff of assistant coaches – Bill Kamps (offen-
sive line/defensive line/special teams), Eddie Erdelatz (defensive coordinator), Ed Silveira (running backs/defensive backs), Oliver Pryor (defensive line/tight ends/strength & conditioning), Tom Henderson (training/game-day coordinator) and Justin Unruh (strength & conditioning).
The Knights will look to move into their new Ripon Christian Athletic Complex with a seating capacity of 1,200. Their toughest challenges in league could come from the likes of Le Grand and Mariposa.
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Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
YEAR IN REVIEW ZERO WEEK Sierra 54, Ripon 7: The season couldn’t have started any better for Sierra, which rode Mark Paule Jr.’s 198yard, seven-touchdown effort to a staggering rout of a top small-school squad. Manteca 20, Wilcox 14: Manteca held off an an opportunistic Wilcox team — which took advantage of two blocked punts to score its touchdowns — in a hardnosed victory. Grace Davis 16, East Union 6: The East Union defense momentarily turned the tide with a late goal-line stand, but Davis answered with a back-breaking safety on the following play. West 20, Lathrop 7: QB Diego Chavez had the Spartans set up on the West 6 in the final seconds, but Marcel Dancy sealed it for West with a 96-yard pick-six as time expired.
WEEK 1
Photo by SEAN KAHLER
Manteca 49, Valley Christian 7: Six different Buffaloes scored – all in the first half – in this nonleague affair against one of the North Coast Section’s best small-sized private schools. Sierra 56, Central Valley 0: For the second straight game, the Sierra defense held an opposing offense scoreless in what was arguably the Timberwolves’ most complete game of the season. Lathrop 24, Liberty Ranch 8: Hawaii Leafa Teo (131 yards, 2 TDs) and Diego Chavez (9-15 passing, 108 yards, 2 Tds) powered a balanced attack in a rare triumph for the Spartans. Patterson 38, Ripon 14: The Indians took on another mid-sized power and had no answer for Damarrio Hammonds, who reeled in
WEEK 2 East Union 60, Johansen 19: East Union crushed Johansen in its home opener following the heartbreaking defeat from two weeks prior, but injuries to two key starters dampened the mood. Ripon 45, Lathrop 25: Following two discouraging losses, Ripon put it all together and rallied past the Spartans behind Ryan Fugit’s breakout performance (176 rushing yards, three TDs). Sierra 63, Chavez 24: In a match-up pitting two of the county’s most prolific offenses, Sierra’s defense forced six turnovers and led a lopsided win over the eventual San Joaquin Athletic Association champion. Manteca 49, Enochs 14: The Buffaloes steamrolled their way to an early 28-0 advantage with help from the ball-hawking defense that forced fumbles on Enochs’ first two drives. Ripon Christian 27, Linden 23: Bryan Sytsma (182 yards, two TDs) pushed the
two TD catches and scored another on a 90-yard punt return. Ripon Christian 57, Big Valley Christian 0:
Billy Marr completed his one and only pass for a 57-yard touchdown, while Bryan Sytsma rambled for 153 yards and two scores.
WEEK 3 Ripon Christian 42, Stone Ridge Christian 7: Brian Sytsma continued his early-season breakthrough, as he was in on five touchdowns: three rushing, one receiving, one passing. Sonora 35, Ripon 23: Hard-luck Ripon put forth a valiant effort at venerable Dunlavy Field, trailing by just five after Jacob Duxbury’s second touchdown run with 11 minutes left. Gregori 42, East Union 15: An upset was brewing with East Union ahead 7-0 at halftime, but the host Jaguars took over with a 28-point outburst in the third quarter. Grace Davis 52, Weston Ranch 20: The Cougars couldn’t recover from an early 27-0 deficit and six
Photo by HIME ROMERO
total turnovers while Grace Davis cruised to a surprising
fourth straight win to start the season.
WEEK 5 Photo by HIME ROMERO
Knights ahead for good with 42 seconds left, and he sealed
the win with an interception 39 seconds later.
WEEK 4 Central Catholic 29, Manteca 28: Justin Rice plowed his way into the end zone for his fifth touchdown of the night, securing CC’s epic overtime win in this epic Valley Oak League opener. Sierra 55, Kimball 20: Mark Paule Jr. amassed 253 rushing yards and five touchdowns, while star linebacker Trevon McCray racked up four sacks for the 4-0 Timberwolves. Lathrop 31, Weston Ranch 20: The Battle of I-5 trophy was seized by the Spartans, who were spearheaded by the speed-power backfield combo of Hawaii Leafa Teo and Jairell McCain. Ripon Christian 21, Orestimba 20: Ripon Christian’s Kevin Kramer (143 yards, two TDs) and failed conversions doomed visiting Orestimba in this Southern League opener. Oakdale 49, East Union 13: Oakdale poured in 35 unanswered points to start the game with Darus Nel-
Photo by HIME ROMERO
Sierra 17, Central Catholic 14: After four easy wins, the T’Wolves knocked off the reigning small-school state champion thanks to big plays from receiver Hunter Johnson (8 catches, 135 yards, TD). Manteca 14, Lathrop 12: With injured QB Dakarai Charles and RB Hector Soto sitting out the first half for Manteca, Lathrop nearly pulled off a major upset but had a late field goal partially blocked. East Union 41, Kimball 26: Sophomore signal caller Jack Weaver starred on East Union’s homecoming, rushing for 98 yards and a TD while throwing for 196 and three scores. Le Grand 15, Ripon Christian 14: Ripon Christian’s goal-line stand gave the offense a chance to win it in the end, but QB Billy Marr (225 yards, two TDs) was sacked on the team’s final offensive play. Oakdale 48, Weston Ranch 0: The Mustangs trampled their way to a 42-0 halftime
Photo by HIME ROMERO
lead. Five different players hit paydirt, with Darus Nelson and Franklie Trent scoring twice each.
WEEK 6
Photo by HIME ROMERO
son finishing with more than 200 yards rushing and five touchdowns in limited action. Sutter 49, Ripon 7: Ripon’s brutal non-league
schedule ended 115 miles from home, as eventual North Section Division III champion Sutter shook off a scoreless first quarter for a blowout victory.
Oakdale 42, Manteca 21: The Buffaloes’ much-anticipated weekend slugfest under the Santa Clara sun at Levi’s Stadium was dominated by Frankie Trent (223 yards, 6 TDs) and Oakdale’s trap play. Ripon 49, Hilmar 21: Following its bye week and a 1-4 start, Ripon opened TransValley League play with a confidence-building 49-21 triumph over the reigning champion. Sierra 37, Lathrop 7: With back-up sophomore QB Marcos Castillo getting the surprise start, the Timberwolves were able to carve up the Lathrop defense in their fifth running-clock victory. Weston Ranch 18, Kimball 14: Bryant
Bowen capped an impressive — and gamedeciding — 97-yard drive with a 3-yard jaunt with 1:24 remaining. Kimball led 14-0 early in the second half. Central Catholic 52, East Union 0: It was the Rice Show, as junior RB Justin Rice rushed for 219 yards and three TDs, while senior TE Jared Rice (not related) caught two scores in the drubbing. Ripon Christian 28, Waterford 27: Trailing by 15 midway through the third, the Knights rallied for 20 unanswered points and the win. It was the third straight week that RC was in a game decided by a point.
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Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
B5
YEAR IN REVIEW WEEK 7 Sierra 31, Oakdale 20: For just the second time in 19 years, Sierra defeated perennial contender Oakdale to gain the inside track for the Valley Oak League championship. East Union 28, Lathrop 21: Rising QB Jack Weaver did most of his damage (11 of 21, 181 yards, three TDs) throwing to big receiver Austin Miller, who caught ninefor 171 yards and three scores. Manteca 55, Kimball 7: The Buffaloes romped their way to a 42-0 halftime lead. QB Dakarai Charles led the team in rushing (85 yards, TD) while throwing for 115 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Gustine 23, Ripon Christian 7: Billy Marr hit Ethan McMurray for a 53-yard touchdown to tie it at 7-7 early in the third quarter, but Gustine answered with a 78-yard TD run and
WEEK 8
Photo by HIME ROMERO
a safety for the upset. Ripon 52, Riverbank 6: Ryan Fugit rushed for three first-half touchdowns — including a 90-yard dash — and 141 yards on just eight carries. Ripon was in full control by the break, leading 46-0.
Sierra 35, East Union 21: Mark Paule Jr. (188 yards 4 TDs, passing TD) and Hunter Johnson (101 receiving yards, TD) were the difference in a closerthan-expected homecoming for Sierra. Manteca 49, Weston Ranch 7: Hector Soto (181 yards, 2 TDs) was one of six Buffaloes to find the end zone in what was their first game at Guss Schmiedt Field in six weeks. Modesto Christian 44, Ripon 30: A second-half flurry led by Ryan Fugit’s three touchdowns was not enough to overcome a disastrous first half in which Ripon had turnovers in three straight possessions. Ripon Christian 31, Denair 0: QB Billy Marr (256 yards, 4 TDs) and Ripon Christian did all of its scoring in the opening half, and the hard-hitting defense took it
WEEK 9 Manteca 34, Sierra 20: Hector Soto churned out 197 yards and two TDs in a stunning Halloween night upset of Sierra, which was slowed by the Buffaloes’ defense and muddy Guss Schmiedt Field. Weston Ranch 14, East Union 8: Both offenses struggled to gain traction on rain-soaked Dino Cunial Field, but big plays – namely Marque Watson’s 72-yard TD catch – put Weston Ranch over the top. Ripon Christian 26, Mariposa 0: Ripon Christian’s wild run through the Southern League continued with a surprisingly onesided thumping of the eventual co-champion Grizzlies. Escalon 14, Ripon 9: Needing a win for a postseason berth, Ripon carried a 9-0 lead into halftime before Hunter Calton (127 yards) and Escalon’s punishing wing-T took control. Oakdale 56, Lathrop 0: Lathrop was thoroughly outplayed by Oakdale, now motivated by at least a partial claim of the league title thanks to Manteca’s stunning win over previouslyundefeated Sierra.
from there. Central Catholic 55, Lathrop 14: The Spartans scored late on school recordbreaking plays: Keenan Donatelli’s 98-yard kickoff return and Reggie Carter’s 99-yard kickoff return.
WEEK 10
Photos by HIME ROMERO
Sierra 49, Weston Ranch 7: With a bid for a 10-0 regular season ruined, Sierra still seized a share of the Valley Oak League title, the program’s second overall, behind Mark Paule’s six touchdown runs. Manteca 70, East Union 21: Seeking to build on their momentum heading into the playoffs, the Buffaloes scored on their first 10 possessions and continued to dominate their longtime rival. Kimball 35, Lathrop 24: The Spartans’ disappointing season came to a disappointing end, as Kimball notched its lone Valley Oak League victory thanks to a balanced running game. Ripon Christian 22, Delhi 13: A blocking specialist at fullback, Seth Silveira took his turn in the spotlight with a 97-yard, two-touchdown performance against the game Hawks. Hughson 42, Ripon 21: Ryan Fugit tallied 114 yards and a TD in his final game for Ripon, but Hughson’s balanced attack led by QB Walter Fountain (253 yards, 3 TDs) was too much.
ROUND 1 PLAYOFFS Manteca 49, Vanden 14: It was a no-doubter from the start, as fourth-seeded Manteca registered the game’s first 35 points. The Buffs racked up 533 yards of offense with Dakarai Charles and Hector Soto leading the way. Sierra 69, Rosemont 37: No. 2 Sierra won convincingly, as expected, but walked away unsatisfied. Mark Paule Jr. and Hunter Johnson combined for seven TDs to make up for the porous and injuryravaged defense. Ripon Christian 34, Golden Sierra 13: Perhaps feeling disrespected by their seeding, the No. 5 Knights shut down Golden Sierra’s run-based offense on the road while Kevin Kramer (124 yards, 3 TDs) carried the load.
Photo by HIME ROMERO
Photo by HIME ROMERO
Photos by HIME ROMERO
ROUND 2 PLAYOFFS Rio Linda 49, Sierra 44: QB Zak Burden (261 yards, 4 TDs passing; 121 yards, TD rushing) spearheaded No. 10 Rio Linda’s second straight upset win in the playoffs. Sierra ended one of its best seasons at 10-2. Sacramento 34, Manteca 28: In a rematch of the 2013 SJS Division III final, No. 5 Sacramento got its revenge in a thriller that came down to the end, as Ronaldo Tijero’s onehanded catch in the end zone was ruled incomplete. Capital Christian 56, Ripon Christian 13: The eventual SJS Division VI champion and CIF Regional Bowl Game participant proved to be too athletic for the Knights, who reached the semifinals a fourth straight year.
Photo by HIME ROMERO
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Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 27, 2015
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