Manteca 2018 Football Preview by Manteca Bulletin

Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

TO P R ET U R N I N G P L AY E R S Amier Bowen, Weston Ranch QB: With Bowen behind center, the Cougars were a threat to break a big play on every down. His 2,556 yards in 2017 is a new single-season record at Weston Ranch, and three of his top receivers return. Bowen was also the team’s leading rusher with 629 yards. Raylen Carter, East Union WB: An electric athlete, the Lathrop transfer had a memorable debut for East Union with his 272-yard, four-touchdown outburst against Ceres — on six carries! He wound up with 791 yards and another 226 receiving while totaling nine touchdowns. Jorge Cedano, Manteca WR: A quarterback in the lower levels, Cedano was thrusted into a new role early in 2017 when injuries opened up a spot for him at receiver. He made an immediate impact, ending with 631 yards and six TDs as a dependable target for All-VOL MVP Gino Campiotti. Ryan Daggett, Ripon QB: Due to low numbers, the Indians are looking into putting Daggett’s athleticism to use on defense. Behind center, he passed for 1,115 yards and 15 touchdowns while rushing for five scores. He’s also the TVL’s reigning champion in the 110- and 300-meter hurdles. JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

TOP PHOTO: Joe Giardina prepares to snap the ball to Robert Cancilla. BOTTOM PHOTO: Giardina, who has cerebral palsy, will start at center for the Delta Charter football team.

CENTER OF ATTENTION

Delta Charter’s Giardina, who has Cerebral palsy, starts on O-line By JAS ON C AMPBEL L The Bu lletin

Joe Giardina grew up watching football. He always fascinated by the game — the helmets, the shoulder pads and the sense of family bonding that came from sitting around rooting on their favorite teams. And to the average person, Giardina seemed like the last person that would ever step foot onto a football field in the uniform that he grew up admiring. But Delta Charter High School football coach Jeff Tilton isn’t your average person. For the second year in a row, Giardina — who has cerebral palsy — is an active part of the Dragons’ freshly-minted football program, spending last season as a reserve wide receiver who overcame the fact he doesn’t have full use of his right hand. And when the Dragons their football season on Friday night, Giardina will be the only player on his squad that will touch the ball on every offensive play. Tilton said he overcame initial concerns about Giardina’s safety and was motivated by his outstanding work ethic and dedication to the team. Giardina will be the team’s starting center after spending the offseason learning how to snap the football and play a pivotal role for a team that is finding its identity in only its second season of existence. “It’s weird because I have a lot of big, scary players in front of me,” said Giardina, who is listed on the team’s roster at 5-foot-6, 145 pounds. “I know I have to give a good block, protect the quarterback,

and make a hole for the running back to get through. “I may not be as big as some of the players, but my mom always reminds me size doesn’t matter — it’s about doing your job.” The inspirational nature of his journey to starting varsity football player aside, there are still health concerns that Giardina has to face when he puts on his uniform every day and heads to practice. Not having full motion with his right hand when blocking is a concern, as is any sort of head injury. Growing up he experienced seizures, which he takes medication every day to control. But being out there as a part of a team and playing a vital role in helping that team come together, Giardina said, is important to him. “Getting hit in the head concerns me, sure,” Giardina said. “I don’t really have anything else to worry about. My seizures are controlled by medication, as long as I stay hydrated I don’t have seizures. My biggest challenge right now is blocking since my right hand isn’t as strong as my left.” And for Tilton, having Giardina as a part of the team has been a growth experience for him as well, overcoming his initial concerns and working to assist him to grow into the football player that he wants to be recognized as. At the end of the day, Tilton

said, he’s just another player on the team, albeit one who overcame obstacles that may have sidelined many other people but not enough to prevent him to achieving his longstanding goal. “He has this general attitude of ‘this is what they want me to do, and I’m going to find a way to do it’ and it’s amazing to see that,” Tilton said. “He doesn’t get special treatment from any of the players – we went up to Camp Jack Hazard for a teambuilding trip, and none of the players came up to me during the challenges and said that Joe couldn’t do these things because he has a disability. “He’s recognized as Joe — he’s just another student on campus, not something that’s looked at or pointed at. He doesn’t hide the fact that he has cerebral palsy, and I’m amazed by his courage and his drive.” Tilton said that the transition from wide receiver to offensive line came naturally after growing in size in the offseason, allowing him the opportunity to branch out and become a player that will start on the team. Last year, Tilton said that he got the idea of potentially putting him at center when thinking about the future, and even called him over at the last practice to give him the opportunity to try out snapping the football to the quarterback and seeing if it was a comfortable fit. Like with almost everything else he does, Tilton said, he worked hard until he got it down. “He really epitomizes what we talk about when we say the word ‘grit,’” Tilton said. “I think he has really embraced it. He doesn’t complain, and he shows leadership. “He comes up to the ball ready to roll, and he calls a huddle just like a center should – loudly and with confidence. He’s a big part of this team.”

Roland Davis, Ripon RB/OLB: With Ripon’s top two rushers gone to graduation, expect the fleet-footed Davis to get the lion’s share of carries out of the backfield after averaging 6.7 yards per carry for 303 yards and two TDs. He was also among the team’s leading tacklers with 76. Jacob DeJesus, Manteca WR: DeJesus dazzled in his varsity debut as a sophomore. The speedy wide out was Manteca’s leading receiver with 711 yards and six touchdowns on 57 catches, but he was also a threat in the running game (141 yards) and special teams (three return TDs). JoJo Espinosa, East Union RB/FS: Espinosa had a solid junior campaign as quarterback of the Lancers’ pistol/wing offense, but his talents will now be used elsewhere. He’ll be featured at running back after rushing for 357 yards and eight TDs last year as well as on defense at free safety. Justin Hansen, Ripon ILB: Hansen plays bigger than his 5-foot-7, 165-pound frame in the middle of Ripon’s defense. He earned All-TVL first-team honors after leading the Indians with 88 tackles but was also a playmaker in coverage, intercepting three passes. Marquise Higgins, East Union WR/OLB: The 6-foot-3, 225pound Higgins had limited playing time during his junior season but is now drawing interest from NCAA Division I programs. He impressed his coaches in the offseason and is expected to be a major contributor on both sides of scrimmage. Levi Huffman, East Union RB/OLB: The Lancers have added depth on offense, which could allow Huffman — the VOL’s Utility Player of the Year — to focus more on the defensive side where he had a team-leading 64 tackles, four sacks and three forced fumbles last season. Michael Kamps, Ripon Christian RB/OLB: Kamps may be poised for a big season considering the returning talent surrounding him at the skill positions and offensive lines. He rambled for 1,244 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2017 and produced 67 tackles on defense. Justin Manuel, Lathrop QB: Manuel earned All-VOL second-team honors as a safety, but he has gone from defensive captain to the leader of the Spartans’ newly-installed spread offense. His running ability will be featured in this scheme, and he has some talented receivers to throw to. Sean McGovern, Ripon Christian RB/WR/DB: McGovern was a sophomore last year when he earned All-SAL firstteam honors on defense (73 tackles, three interceptions). At 6-foot-2, 180 pounds, he has the tools to be a multi-dimensional threat for offensive coordinator Randy Fasani. Fletcher Pitts, Weston Ranch WR: Pitts was one of the Bowen’s top receivers last season, leading the team with 45 catches to go with 763 yards and five touchdowns. It’s a position of strength for the Cougars, so defenses won’t have the luxury of keying in on the productive Pitts. Trabron Russell, Manteca RB: Emerged in the second half of the regular season but was slowed in the playoffs with an ankle injury. Russell ended his productive sophomore campaign with 825 yards (8.6 per carry) and 16 touchdowns, but look for him to play a bigger part in Manteca’s prolific offense. Nick Stanley, Sierra ATH/DB: An early-season injury forced him into the starting QB role last fall. His experience at receiver and now running back gives the T’wolves a versatile weapon in the pistol/wing offense. An accomplished hurdler, he’s was named the Bulletin’s top male track athlete in the spring.

SCHEDULE ZERO WEEK Friday, Aug. 17 East Union at Downey Manteca at Lathrop Sierra at Modesto Christian Weston Ranch at Ripon Millennium at Ripon Christian WEEK 1 Friday, Aug. 24 Downey at Manteca Central Valley at Sierra Lathrop at Kimball Stone Ridge at Ripon Christian. Saturday, Aug. 25 East Union at Napa Ripon at Sonora WEEK 2 Friday, Aug. 31 Bear Creek at East Union. Granada at Manteca Pacheco at Sierra Franklin at Weston Ranch Central Valley at Ripon Ripon Christian at Summerville. WEEK 3 Friday, Sept. 7 Vanden at East Union Tracy at Manteca Sierra at Lathrop Weston Ranch at Buhach Colony Calaveras at Ripon WEEK 4 Thursday, Sept. 13 Weston Ranch at Gregori Friday, Sept. 14 Oakdale at East Union Manteca at Central Catholic Sierra at Kimball Ceres at Lathrop Hilmar at Ripon Waterford at Ripon Christian WEEK 5 Friday, Sept. 21 Kimball at East Union. Central Catholic at Sierra Weston Ranch at Oakdale Pacheco at Lathrop Riverbank at Ripon Ripon Christian at Denair WEEK 6 Friday, Sept. 28 East Union at Central Catholic Oakdale at Manteca Kimball at Weston Ranch Lathrop at Beyer (Johansen) Ripon at Livingston Orestimba at Ripon Christian WEEK 7 Friday, Oct. 5 Manteca at Kimball Sierra at Oakdale Weston Ranch at Central Catholic Lathrop at Grace Davis Ripon Christian at Gustine WEEK 8 Friday, Oct. 12 East Union at Sierra Weston Ranch at Manteca Johansen at Lathrop Ripon at Escalon Mariposa at Ripon Christian WEEK 9 Friday, Oct. 19 East Union at Weston Ranch. Sierra at Manteca Lathrop at Los Banos Hughson at Ripon Ripon Christian at Le Grand. WEEK 10 Friday, Oct. 26 Manteca at East Union Sierra at Weston Ranch Lathrop at Mountain House. Ripon at Modesto Christian Delhi at Ripon Christian

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Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

NEW ERA, SAME EXPECTATIONS Buffs take aim at three-peat with 1st-year coach and QB By JA M ES BURNS Bulletin c orresp ondent

In one season, Manteca High’s new football coach Mark Varnum has chance to accomplish a feat even his predecessor could not. For nearly two decades, Eric Reis, the program’s all-time wins leader, guided the Buffaloes to five Sac-Joaquin Section championships and three CIF State Northern California bowl appearances. In 16 seasons, Manteca won 150 games. Yet, Reis left the most impressive feat to Varnum, his former offensive coordinator and lower-level coach, and many of his former assistant coaches, including longtime defensive coordinator Rick James. Manteca sent Reis into retirement with back-to-back section titles, annexing the Division IV crown in 2016 and the Division III title last fall with a surprising rout of Valley Oak League rival Oakdale. After turning his alma mater into a football factory, Reis chose to leave the program with his oldest son, allVOL lineman Kyle Reis, and a decorated class that included Harvard-bound lineman Justin Kakala and Northern Arizona quarterback Gino Campiotti. Varnum won’t have the luxury of easing into a new role. Instead, he has embraced the challenge — and the immense pressure that comes with talk of a three-peat, a rarity for publicschool programs in this area. “We want to show out for coach Varnum, because it’s a new era now,” senior wide receiver Jorge Cedano said. “We want to show them he’s working just as hard as we are.” Despite heavy graduation losses, Manteca remains one of the most talented teams in the southern half of the section. Junior Ryan Ward, a highly touted pitcher, fills the void left under center by Campiotti, a three-year varsity star and 2017 VOL MVP. He has the confidence of Varnum, who has insulated the first-year starter with an array of weapons, including junior Trabron Russell, who has the ability to lead the VOL in rushing, and wide receivers Cedano, Jacob DeJesus and Kyle Lynch. DeJesus isn’t the biggest or fastest slot receiver in the area, but few are as dynamic and explosive in pads. The 5-foot-7 playmaker led the Buffaloes in receptions (57) and receiving yards (711). He’ll battle Cedano for touches. A high-profile basketball player, Cedano blossomed into a top target over the final seven games of the season, developing an electric connection with Campiotti. “The person in front of me just can’t guard me, that’s how I think of things,” said Cedano, who has never lacked for confidence. “When I line up with someone, he’s the same dude as I am, but I think I’m better than him. … It’s Manteca football. That’s how they train us. Whoever you line up with, you’re better than. You better think that. If not, you’re going to get handled out there.” Cedano finished with 48 catches for 631 yards and six TDs, and Varnum said the long

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

Ryan Ward takes over behind center for 2017 All-Valley Oak League MVP Gino Campiotti, who led the Buffaloes to back-to-back Sac-Joaquin Section championships and CIF NorCal Bowl Games.

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

TOP LEFT PHOTO: Marc Buenrostro looks to make the play against the scout-team offense. TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Jacob DeJesus zeroes in on ball carrier Trabron Russell. BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: First-year Manteca head coach Mark Varnum offers some pointers to junior quarterback Ryan Ward.

and lanky receiver could be targeted 10 times a game. “It’s going to be hard without Gino. That guy did everything for us,” DeJesus said. “This year, we have a lot more weapons. … We’re all here to help him, because he’s not Gino. You can’t beat Gino how he was; he was a great quarterback. But we don’t need Ryan to be Gino.” Defensively, Manteca has more pressing concerns. The Buffaloes return just one starter from a unit that muzzled Oakdale’s vaunted Wing-T offense in the Division III section final. Defensive coordinator Rick James spent Tuesday’s practice defining the terms for his fresh, young cast. “You’re either the hammer or

the nail,” he barked as players crashed into one another, each trying to drive the other back. “Around here we want to be the hammer.” Manteca’s bid for a third section title begins with a rigorous nonconference schedule. The Buffaloes open the season Aug. 17 with former VOL foe Lathrop, who has been realigned in the Western Athletic Conference. Manteca also clashes with Downey on Aug. 24, Granada of Livermore Aug. 31, and rekindles an old rivalry with Tracy Sept. 7. The Buffaloes open VOL at Central Catholic Sept. 14. Early on, Manteca will know if it has the team to make a run at a third consecutive section crown, and ultimately, the pro-

SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 17 at Lathrop Friday, Aug. 24 vs. Downey Friday, Aug. 31 vs. Granada Friday, Sept. 7 vs. Tracy Friday, Sept. 14 at C. Catholic Friday, Sept. 28 vs. Oakdale Friday, Oct. 5 at Kimball Friday, Oct. 12 vs. W. Ranch Friday, Oct. 19 vs. Sierra Friday, Oct. 26 at East Union

gram’s first state title. “The thing is, everybody thinks the class in front us was better and basically carried us.” Cedano said. “We don’t feel like that. We’re hungry. We feel we can get to where we want to be as long as we work as hard as we can. We’re going to get there this year, we really think so.”

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Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

UP FOR tHE CHALLENGE

Loaded Lancers look to raise their level with tough schedule By JA M ES BURNS Bulletin c orresp ondent

From his equipment shed, looking back at the practice field that pushes up against Northgate Drive, East Union High football coach Willie Herrera sees what everyone else sees. Even in T-shirt and shorts, the Lancers are a scary proposition. With the likes of Marquise Higgins, a Division I prospect, and Raylen Carter, an electric home-run threat, East Union has arguably its most athletic team in school history. But will it be enough to break up the Valley Oak League’s Big Three? Oakdale has won 14 of the last 16 league titles, including the 2017 crown, and crosstown rival Manteca is a two-time defending Sac-Joaquin Section champion. Then there’s Central Catholic, a four-time CIF State champion and the VOL’s only Division II program. For the first time in his eight seasons, Herrera is convinced he has the talent to compete with the best of the best. However, he also understands this: To raise a banner is as much as test of a team’s mental strength than its physical ability. “We look good on paper and the schedule looks good, but you got to go out there and produce,” said Herrera, whose team opens the season at Downey on Aug. 17. “These guys got to get it done. They have the potential to do that, to do the best the school has ever done, but it could very easily go the other way.” To protect his team’s potential, Herrera and his staff spent considerable energy over the offseason exercising the Lancers’ collective mental muscle. He’s asked a room full of “alpha males” to avoid counting reps, touches and opportunities, and instead focus on the number seven — East Union’s number of victories last fall. He’s asked them to remember that there is strength in numbers, and to upset the establishment in the VOL, it’s going to take the work of many. East Union’s offensive huddle features five playmakers: wide receivers Nico Cedolini, Lorenzo Contreras and Higgins, as well as running backs JoJo Espinosa and Carter and a promising junior quarterback (Eric Morales) — but only one ball. “It makes it easier on every coach if you can hand the ball off to one guy and just let him go, but because we have so many athletes … the opportunities may not be the same as the guy next to you, so make the most of what you have,” Herrera said. “It helps having the success we’ve had the last couple years. They’ve seen it firsthand. They saw how the hot hand was rotated every week. That’s a strength and an advantage we need to keep offensively, so it’s harder for opponents to game plan. It’s harder to game plan for five guys rather than one.” Here’s a closer look at the Lancers: Strength of schedule: East Union dropped Ceres, Johan-

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

TOP PHOTO: East Union assistant coach Dan Coffman shouts words of encouragement as Joey Aguirre works on drive blocking. BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO: Lorenzo Contreras makes a nice catch near the sideline with Alejandro Alvarado in coverage during 11-on-11 drills. BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: Returning standout Raylen Carter blows past the defense and heads toward the end zone.

sen and West and beefed up its schedule with Downey, Napa (Aug. 25), Bear Creek (Aug. 31) and Vanden (Sept. 7). Herrera not only wanted to improve his strength of schedule, but after back-toback postseason appearances, he believed his program was ready to step up in weight class. “I think we’re at a time with our program where we could be in that (playoff) conversation every year, so we want to give ourselves the opportunity to get to that point,” Herrera said. “If we want to consider ourselves in that tier … if we expect to be at a certain level we have to challenge ourselves with the opponents we play.” Counting on Morales: East Union junior Eric Morales will start at quarterback, replacing

SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 17 at Downey Saturday, Aug. 25 at Napa Friday, Aug. 31 vs. Bear Creek Friday, Sept. 7 vs. Vanden Friday, Sept. 14 vs. Oakdale Friday, Sept. 21 vs. Kimball Friday, Sept. 28 at C. Catholic Friday, Oct. 12 at Sierra Friday, Oct. 19 at W. Ranch Friday, Oct. 26 vs. Manteca

Espinosa whose move to tailback gives the offense another weapon. Morales has impressed the coaching staff with accuracy and acumen. He’s a quick learner, Herrera said, one who doesn’t let a broken play linger. “Our general has to be the quarterback,” Herrera said. “We had Jack Weaver and then JoJo, and now Eric has the torch. His performance plays a

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huge role in all of this. He has to play at a high level.” Who’s who on offense: East Union’s catalysts on the offensive side of the ball will be Morales; wide receivers Higgins, Cedolini and Contreras; and running backs Carter and Espinosa. The unheralded stars, though, are Anthony Anaya and Gabe Herrera, offensive linemen who started every game last fall. Who’s who on defense: East Union are counting on

Sebastian Ellis and Tealen Gaines to develop into shutdown corners, and defensive linemen Eric Nascimento, Thomas Cann and Andrew Mount to provide the pressure up front. Mount had 44 tackles and a sack last fall. Opening VOL with Oakdale: In a rare scheduling twist, East Union will host defending VOL champion Oakdale in their league opener on Sept. 14 for the second straight year. The Mustangs suffered heavy graduation losses, but

Herrera says no one in the league is overlooking the perennial title contender. “I still expect those guys to be snot-tough and ready to get after it,” Herrera said. “They’re going to be good. I don’t care how young they are or how many starters aren’t coming back, those guys will be good. Being a one-horse town, having kids play in the same system for years — that’s a huge advantage. Those guys will be ready to go. Our kids know that, our coaches know that.”

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Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

RUNNING AS A PACK T’wolves unified in Johnson’s second season as head coach

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

Second-year Sierra head coach Chris Johnson leads a tackling drill in practice. By JA M ES BURNS Bulletin c orresp ondent

The practice field at Sierra High represents the family-first atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Chris Johnson-led football programs. All three levels practice together, sharing equipment and coaches. It’s a method Johnson hopes strengthens the bond between levels and teammates, and on this day, it’s working. Freshmen and junior varsity offenses pour over the intricacies of the option offense with Johnson and lower-level coach Jeff Abrew, while the linebackers practice pursuit with varsity assistant Mike James. In opposite corners of the field, DBs and linemen also labor in the heat. In the same breath, Johnson, biceps bursting out of the sleeves on his shirt, might teach a freshman QB how to read the edge rusher and a sophomore signalcaller how to complete the pitch. “It’s like shooting a free throw,” he says, flicking his wrist, “or turning a double play.” Johnson developed this all-for-one, one-for-all approach with much success at Ripon High, where he helped turned the Indians into one of the region’s toughest small-school programs. It has taken Sierra more than a year to warm to Johnson’s system and style, though, and their struggles played out under a spotlight in 2017. The Timberwolves sank

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

ABOVE PHOTO: Sierra defensive tackle Omar Maxwell sheds the block while in pursuit of the ball carrier. RIGHT PHOTO: Sierra linebacker Kimoni Stanley pressures the quarterback. Stanley is expected to blossom as a two-way standout for the Timberwolves.

to the bottom of the Valley Oak League, finishing 2-8 with six consecutive losses to spoil Johnson’s inaugural campaign. Just two years removed from an unlikely run to a Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV championship and CIF Division IV-A State Bowl win, Sierra mustered just one league win and lost to rival East Union for the first time in 13 years. Quarterback Nick Stanley, who was thrust into the starting lineup after Jacob Peterson suffered an injury, said Johnson’s arrival split the locker room into two camps. There were those that welcomed new leadership, and those that wished Jeff Harbison, the architect of that state title team and the program’s all-time winningest coach, hadn’t resigned. “There’s a brotherhood

SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 17 at Modesto Ch. Friday, Aug. 24 vs. C. Valley Friday, Aug. 31 vs. Pacheco Friday, Sept. 7 at Lathrop Friday, Sept. 14 at Kimball Friday, Sept. 21 vs. C. Catholic Friday, Oct. 5 at Oakdale Friday, Oct. 12 vs. East Union Friday, Oct. 19 at Manteca Friday, Oct. 26 at W. Ranch

now,” said Stanley, whose versatility has been put to the test. In three seasons, he’s played three different positions for the Timberwolves, including wide receiver, quarterback and now running back. “Last year, I can’t say I had a lot of people who would fight for me or have my back. This year I can say that about most everybody. “Energy vampires, we don’t have that anymore —

people who just suck the life out of a game and put people down. We don’t got that.” Senior wide receiver and defensive back Carlos Tovar stops short of a bold prediction, but insists the camaraderie that defined Sierra’s magical state run in 2015 has returned. Tovar says the mantra is “one game at a time,” and Johnson returns to his TransValley League roots in the season opener at Modesto Christian, a reigning TVL champion and Division VI section finalist. The Crusaders boast a small but talent-rich roster that includes quarterback

Hayden Sauser; defensive end Xavier Carlton, a highly touted prospect with an offer from Notre Dame; and running back Isaac Schinnman. Sierra also hosts Central Valley (Aug. 24) and Pacheco (Aug. 31), before closing its non conference calendar with a trip to Lathrop, a former VOL foe. “Sierra football is completely changed,” Tovar said. “Last year, we were broken up, but this year we’re more of a family. We’ve come back together.” Johnson is in this 19th season as a high school head coach. He was 77-54 with two TVL titles in 12 seasons

at Ripon, his alma mater. He was also named the SacJoaquin Section’s Athletic Director of the Year in 2010. In an article in the Manteca Bulletin, Johnson said he returned to coaching to reconnect with the students and the community. A year later, Stanley says Johnson’s connection is clear and undisputed. “People who are here now have been more accepting of him,” Stanley said. “People last year didn’t want to accept him because they wanted the last year’s coach (Harbison). “This year, everyone’s under his wing.”

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Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

COUGARS GO BACK TO BASICS Breaker teaching fundamentals, discipline in 1st year at Ranch By JONAMAR JACINTO The Bulletin

STOCKTON —Kevin Breaker isn’t making any bold predictions for his first season as Weston Ranch head coach. The Cougars have just one winning season in 14 years, and that was back in 2005 when they were part of a threeway share of the Valley Oak League championship. To get back to that point, Breaker — the fifth head football coach in school history — is laying the foundation brick by brick. A longtime coach from Stockton in the youth and high school levels, Breaker said that first on the to-do list is to instill discipline both on the football field and in the classroom. He and his coaching staff are also busy emphasizing the fundamentals of the game. “Rome wasn’t built in a day, right?” he said. “It takes time.” Breaker said it has been “a very difficult road” so far. Attendance was low during summer workouts, and with several players ineligible to start the year he anticipates having little depth at key positions. The process has been an adjustment for the players. “It’s kind of hard,” senior wide out Fletcher Pitts said. “We didn’t have that bond, we just jumped right into it. We had to roll with it and make it work.” There are pieces in place to help Breaker get the program in the right direction. It starts with returning senior quarterback Amier Bowen, who broke a single-season passing record previously held by his uncle, Josh Bowen, with 2,556 yards to go with 20 touchdowns. The Cougars have moved away from the shotgun-spread offense that allowed Bowen to flourish in multiple ways. He was their leading rusher in 2017 with 629 yards and six TDs on 129 scampers. Bowen is now under center in two-back formations while operating out of a West Coast Offense. “It’s been kind of hard learning the new scheme, but I think we’re starting to get the hang of it,” Bowen said. “It’s a big change because last year we were always in shotgun. I think it’s going to fit us. We have good-sized linemen and the speed on the outside.” Weston Ranch will look to move the offense with short passes, giving its talented receivers a chance to make plays in space. And Breaker still wants to make use of Bowen’s running ability. “We’re going to have him out of the pocket quite a bit, keep him on the move,” Breaker said. “We’ll also run some Wildcat with him. He’s our biggest asset as a runner.” Bowen has capable targets to hit despite the graduation loss of Larry Fairbanks, who racked up 779 yards and 10 touchdowns last year. Pitts added 763 yards and five touchdowns on a team-high 45 receptions. Julius Nelson (15 receptions, 255 yards, TD) and Andrew Williams (21-265-1) are both tall receivers with playmaking ability, and they’ll also lead the defense as cornerbacks.

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

Julius Nelson gets in position to make the catch as first-year Weston Ranch head coach Kevin Breaker looks on.

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

LEFT PHOTO: Amier Bowen returns as Weston Ranch’s dual-threat quarterback after setting a single-season passing record with 2,556 yards in 2017. TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Fletcher Pitts, middle, waits for the pass from head coach Kevin Breaker as he works on catching in traffic. BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: nterior lineman Manuel Torres, left, returns for a third varsity season at Weston Ranch.

“We have some athletes on the team, and we want to get the ball in their hands and let them be special as they are,” Breaker said. “We don’t want to be predictable. In our passing scheme, all of our guys are options. It forces them to run their routes hard, read the defense and be ready to catch the ball.” Third-year senior Manuel Torres anchors the line alongside center Duane Lilly and guard Isaiah Maxie, but this is where the Cougars’ lack of depth may hurt most.

“It’s just numbers,” Breaker said. “That’s our biggest issue right now. Managing the minutes of our linemen will be a challenge.” Weston Ranch has overhauled its nonleague schedule that has expanded to four games with Battle of I-5 rival Lathrop moving into the Western Athletic Conference, cutting the VOL to seven teams. Both Lathrop and south Stockton neighbor Edison are no longer on the schedule. The Cougars will have

to get used to travelling, as seven of their 10 games — including their first five — are on the road. Their season kicks off at Ripon this week, and following a Week 1 bye they’ll head to Franklin, Buhach Colony and Gregori. Oakdale welcomes them for the VOL opener on Sept. 21. “We went 2-8 last year, so we have that chip on our shoulder,” Pitts said. “We have that drive to win more.” To prepare his players for the rigors to come, Breaker entered Weston Ranch into

Lincoln’s four-team scrimmage. Breaker previously served as offensive coordinator at Lincoln. “It’s a great eye-opener for us,” he said. “It will let our kids know exactly where they’re at and what we need to do to be competitive. Hopefully we can learn from it and come away with more knowledge about ourselves.”

SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 17 at Ripon Friday, Aug. 31 vs. Franklin Friday, Sept. 7 at Buhach Colony Thursday, Sept. 13 at Gregori Friday, Sept. 21 at Oakdale Friday, Sept. 28 vs. Kimball Friday, Oct. 5 at C. Catholic Friday, Oct. 12 at Manteca Friday, Oct. 19 vs. East Union Friday, Oct. 26 vs. Sierra

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Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

SPARTANS MARCH WEST

Lathrop heads to WAC with revamped coaching staff

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

LEFT PHOTO: Senior quarterback Justin Manuel will get to make use of his scrambling ability in Lathrop’s newlyinstalled spread offense. TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Justin Munoz Romero, right, is Lathrop’s top returning interior lineman on both sides of scrimmage. BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: Lathrop head coach Joe Pirillo talks with quarterback Justin Manuel during an 11-on-11 drill. By JONA MAR JAC I N TO The Bu lletin

LATHROP — Their football careers as players and coaches have intertwined since their youth. Lathrop head coach Joe Pirillo and Andrew Panigada, who are cousins, have finally reunited, and the Spartans’ new defensive line coach brought some of his friends from the “blue school” along for the ride. The bolstered coaching staff, a switch in schemes on both sides of scrimmage and a move from the competitive Valley Oak League to the Western Athletic Conference have re-energized the Spartans. They’re targeting a return to the Sac-Joaquin Section playoffs after doing so for the first time in 2015 and following it with back-to-back three-win campaigns. “In order for us to keep moving up and make that next step I needed to bring in guys with high energy,” Pirillo said. “I have coaches out here working their tails off doing everything they can to help these guys be successful.” The new coaches come from a program with a history of success. Lathrop’s breakthrough in 2015 was overshadowed by Sierra, which went on to win six straight en route to claiming the SJS Division IV and CIF State Division IV-A championships after losing to the Spartans in the regular season. Panigada was part of the Sierra coaching staff along with Mark Rangel and Justin Miller. Rangel now coaches quarterbacks, receivers and defensive backs at Lathrop and has been instrumental in installing Sierra’s old spread offense introduced by former T’wolves head coach Jeff Harbison. Justin Miller (offensive line) and Dominic Jimenez (running backs, linebackers) also arrive from Sierra. “They’re state championship-level coaches,” Lathrop senior quarterback Justin Manuel said. “They bring a winning

mentality to Lathrop, which is something we’ve never had before.” Defensive coordinator Ross Tisdell is the lone assistant to remain on Pirillo’s staff, and he’s also tasked with overseeing changes with the Spartans moving to a 4-2 front. Pirillo and Panigada were teammates for the Manteca Chargers youth program and again at Delta College after they graduated from high school in 2004, but for the most part they’ve been on opposite sidelines. Pirillo played for a SJS championship team at Manteca, while Pirillo was across town with Sierra. Panigada eventually returned to his alma mater to coach the defensive line and joined Manteca’s staff in 2017. Manteca advanced to a CIF State Northern California Bowl Game for the second consecutive year. “When we were in the (Lions) all-star game together we talked about one day coaching together,” Pirillo said. “It has finally happened.” Here’s a closer look at the 2018 Spartans: Spreading the love: Graduated tailback Michael Ramos was the offense in 2017, rushing for 1,425 yards and nine touchdowns to earn spots on the All-VOL first team and Lions All-Star Classic. “With the new system we’ll have a chance to highlight everyone’s attributes,” Pirillo said. “We’re excited about the weapons we have.” They include some pleasant surprises in senior additions Maurice Saulsberry II and Paul Kiggins, two athletic receivers who are dangerous in space. The 6-foot-1, 185pound Saulsberry transferred from St. Mary’s last year and is a bust-out candidate with his combination of sure hands, size and speed. Hard-running Sebastian Iniguez is penciled in as the starting running back. The speedy Felipe Renteria and versatile Mariano Rocha will also see time in the backfield but may

also line up in the slot. Behind center: Manuel was a leader on the defense last season at safety and got some run at quarterback late before hurting his wrist. “Last year I was captain of the defense and I’m captain of the offense now,” Manuel said. “It’s a lot different, but I’m ready for it.” Manuel compares favorably to Diego Chavez, Lathrop’s quarterback on the 2015 playoff team. “This would be an offense great for Diego,” Pirillo said. “Diego was able to run that college offense that we had beautifully. Justin is doing those things too, but by bringing in the spread we are able to highlight his assets. He can run it, he can throw it and he’s just a threat.” Familiar foes: Before getting acquainted with another league, the Spartans are going to see three opponents they know plenty about — Manteca, Kimball and Sierra. “We have a chance to show that we could still make noise in the VOL,” Manuel said. Lathrop starts with a doozy as defending SJS Division III champ Manteca visits Bennie Gatto. The Spartans will then travel to Kimball where former Manteca standout Mike Kunhlenz has taken over as head coach. More on Sierra : The Battle of I-5 rivalry with Weston Ranch has been put on hold after Lathrop won the last four. Mountain House, a fourth-year program that has also joined the WAC, is slated as the Spartans’ Week 10 opponent. That doesn’t mean Lathrop isn’t without a true rival on the schedule. Pirillo said that keeping Sierra on the schedule was “kind of a must” considering the history between these schools. Adding former Sierra coaches to his staff adds another wrinkle to this growing rivalry. The Timberwolves own that

SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 17 vs. Manteca Friday, Aug. 24 at Kimball Friday, Sept. 7 vs. Sierra Friday, Sept. 14 vs. Ceres Friday, Sept. 21 vs. Pacheco Friday, Sept. 28 at Beyer Friday, Oct. 5 at G. Davis Friday, Oct. 12 vs. Johansen Friday, Oct. 19 at Los Banos Friday, Oct. 26 at Mtn. House

series lead 6-3, but Lathrop is closing in having won the last three — two of them by less than three points. Tackling the WAC: Lathrop has faced a WAC opponent just once — a heartbreaking 30-29 upset defeat against No. 8-seeded Los Banos in the 2015 playoffs. Lathrop was awarded the top seed. Reigning champion Patterson has outgrown the WAC and moved to the Central California Conference, leaving runner-up Los Banos (9-2 last year) and Pacheco (5-5) as two of the frontrunners for 2018. Ceres is the only other school to remain, while Modesto schools Beyer, Grace Davis and Johansen make up the rest of the new-look eightteam conference.

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

Assistant coach Andrew Panigada works with the linemen. After spending time with at his alma mater Sierra and Manteca, he has joined head coach Joe Pirillo, his cousin, at Lathrop.

With only one winning season in nine years in the ultratough VOL, the Spartans see this as an opportunity to shed their reputation as a walkover. “Something that made me mad last year was every team scheduled us for their homecoming or senior night,” Rocha said. “You don’t want to be that

team. Every week was a huge carnival. “In the new league we want to prove that we’re not that team anymore. We’re here to make a statement. If we can compete with the teams in the VOL we can compete in the WAC.”

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Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

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DRAGONS READY TO TAKE FLIGHT

Delta Charter to compete as full member of CCAA

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

Delta Charter players raise their helmets in unison at the end of a practice. By JAS ON C AMPBEL L The Bu lletin

Jeff Tilton had a tall mountain to climb last year. In addition to building a high school football program from scratch at Delta Charter High School, Tilton had to do so with a roster that included many first-time football players, few of whom actually lived anywhere near the school. And on top of all of that, their entire season was essentially one long road trip, and because of ongoing construction at the rural campus to build for the future, even their practices required a bus ride to Laird Regional Park near the small community of Grayson in Stanislaus County. But that was last year. Now that they have a field for practice and home games across the street from the Koster Road campus, and a team that is almost all returning players who have had experience at the varsity level — including battles against some of the most accomplished smallschool programs in California — Tilton believes that his Dragons have turned a corner. The school is now part of the Central California Athletic Alliance after the league charted its progress last season to determine whether they warranted inclusion, and with facilities and a new confidence, Tilton is optimistic about a team that competed last season with only 15 players, at times, while finishing 1-5. “One of the things that I talked to the players and the parents about this season was ‘grit’ — about playing tough and having ‘grit’ when they step out on to the field,” Tilton said. “That’s one of our themes, and I’ve noticed that we’re a lot more aggressive this year than we were at this point last year. “A lot of basic things that we had to worry about last year, like teaching kids how to tackle and how to block, are now established, so we’re able to focus on things like the offense and the defense and the biggerpicture stuff. We’re so far ahead of where we were just a year ago at this time, and it’s starting to come together.” The team is being led this year by junior quarter-

JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

ABOVE PHOTO: Jathen Cain and the Delta Charter football team warm up for practice at their new field. TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Robert Cancilla prepares to deliver the pass. BOTTOM RIGH PHOTO: Jeff Tilton, a former coach at Manteca High, is in his second year of building the Delta Charter football program.

back Robert Cancilla, who couldn’t compete in games last year because he wasn’t eligible but still served as an active member of the team, attending every workout, every practice and every study session to make sure that when his time came he would be ready to step out onto the field. That sort of dedication to the team, especially considering that he knew he wasn’t going to get any of the glory of stepping out beneath the lights, showed Tilton that his players already believed in what it was they were doing, and that there were players who would be stepping into leadership roles early in the program’s tenure. “He symbolically showed us how much he cares about this team and this football program,” Tilton said, noting that he wouldn’t be surprised if the players selected him as one of the team captains. “We have players that have demonstrated their

quiet leadership abilities. They have the athletic ability to make plays and be football players, but I think that our starting quarterback has really stepped up into that role and will lead this team, and the players respond to him.” But Cancilla won’t go without competition. While last season Tilton had to manufacture a quarterback that was able to learn the Wing-T offense and run it efficiently, this season he has three quarterbacks that are actually able to run the offense — creating a scenario where the battle for the position on raises the level of each of them. And since nearly the entire team is back for another season, Tilton said that natural growth across the front line will allow his squad to take a different approach to running the football this season. “Last year it was a lot of counters and pulling, and this year we think we’re

SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 17 at Delta Saturday, Aug. 25 at Encina Friday, Aug. 31 at Bret Harte Friday, Sept. 7 at G. Sierra Friday, Sept. 14 at Turlock Ch. Saturday, Sept. 22 vs. Millennium Friday, Sept. 28 at Sierra Ridge Saturday, Oct. 6 vs Brookside Saturday, Oct. 13 vs. Big Valley Friday, Oct. 19 at Stone Ridge

going to be able to come out and just run the football right at people — a lot of dives and powers out of an I-formation,” Tilton said. “If we can move the ball that way and tighten up the defensive backs, we’ll be able to go to our passing game. “We’re still going to run the Wing-T, but we’re going to force teams to stop us.” Tilton, who coached football at Manteca High School from 1982 to 1990, will rely on the defensive prowess of Manteca High graduate John Griggs to handle the duties on the other side of

the ball. This year he has also welcomed another Buffalo in Ricky Martinez to the coaching staff, where he will formally handle special teams but will have a hand in other elements of the strategy as well. While the first-year jitters and kinks may be ironed out for the football team itself, this season will be the first time that the student body will get to enjoy a home football game — something that Tilton said should transform the culture around campus now that students will have something close to home that they can support. “We didn’t really have that last year. We’re kind of a commuter campus and all of our games were on the road,” Tilton said. “But

this season we’re going to have a homecoming and we’re going to have a senior night — we’re going to start building those traditions at Delta Charter High School. “Last season we outdrew everybody in the stands even though we were the visiting team, and we’re looking forward to be able to have that kind of support right in our own football stadium.” Delta Charter opens up its season on Friday, Aug. 17, when they travel to Clarksburg to take on Delta High School in the second annual Delta Bowl. The Dragons’ first five games will be on the road, but on Saturday, Sept. 22 is their first-ever home game against Millennium.

Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

KNIGHTS GET PUMPED UP

RC hopes added muscle gives them a shot at redemption By JA M ES BURNS Bulletin c orresp ondent

The Ripon Christian High football team didn’t dwell on a disastrous Sac-Joaquin Section finals appearance. The Knights were thrashed by Rio Vista in the Division VII final, 56-28. Instead, the Knights went back into the laboratory, where they’ve been driven by their mistakes and shortcomings. Nine months later, Ripon Christian prepares to emerge a much different team. For starters, they’ve grown in size. Coach Trey Ozenbaugh says the offensive and defensive linemen have gained an average of 20 pounds of muscle — “That’s documented and that’s big time,” he says — and they’ve been tasked with shepherding the Knights through the mine fields of the Southern League. “I really like the talent we have,” Ozenbaugh said. “This is the strongest team we have had with consistent athletes.” The strongest of the bunch may be junior defensive lineman Garrett Bryan, an allleague selection last fall after he racked up four sacks and 54 tackles, including 11 for a loss. Ozenbaugh says Bryan embodies the spirit and competitive nature that drives the team’s weight room workouts and practices. “Garrett looks to me like a kid who was born and raised in Nebraska. He looks like a Cornhusker,” Ozenbaugh said. “We sit down with kids as individual as we wrap up the summer and we talk about what we like and things they may need to improve on, and Garret … he’s just a football player. He lives, breaths and eats everything we’re trying to teach him.” Bryan is joined in the trenches by Wyatt and Drew Van Vliet, Hunter Greenwood and Erik Weststeyn, a center who has experienced the biggest physical transformation, among others. “Seeing all the hard work they’ve put in, it’s pretty exciting and pretty cool. I’ve got a low-drama team; the kids are buying into the ‘Us’ mentality,” Ozenbaugh said. “Their motivation this year is that they know they didn’t play well in the section title game. “It hurts when you lose the title game, but the motivation they take is that we didn’t play well and we can’t let that happen in big games. Their drive this year, they want to win a league title.” The road ahead is treacherous. Ripon Christian opens the season against Millennium on Aug. 25 and then renews its rivalry with Stone Ridge Christian Aug. 31. Ripon Christian has won its last two meetings with the perennial Central California Athletic Alliance contender. The Knights begin September at Summerville and then launch into Southern League play with a gauntlet: vs. Waterford, Sept. 14; at Denair, Sept. 21; vs. Orestimba, Sept. 28; at Gustine, Oct. 5; and vs. Mariposa, Oct. 12.

SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 17 vs. Millennium Friday. Aug. 24 vs. Stone Ridge Friday, Aug. 31 at Summerville Friday, Sept. 14 vs. Waterford Friday, Sept. 21 at Denair Friday, Sept. 28 vs. Orestimba Friday, Oct. 5 at Gustine Friday, Oct. 12 vs. Mariposa Friday, Oct. 19 at Le Grand Friday, Oct. 26 vs. Delhi

TOP PHOTO: Cade Alger (7) and Nolan Lingley are in competition for the starting quarterback position at Ripon Christian. LEFT PHOTO: Jason Vander Weide, left, works through a drill as offensive line coach Bill Kamps looks on. JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin

“We’ve got some league opponents that we haven’t gotten after in a long time. It’s going to start with Orestimba and Gustine,” Ozenbaugh said. “We haven’t gotten past those guys in a long time. These seniors and juniors have circled both of those games. We’re not looking past any of our other league opponents, but if you want win a league title you have to get past one of them, if not both.” Along with new muscle, Ripon Christian welcomed back offensive coordinator Randy Fasani, who has turned a quarterback battle between Nolan Lingley and Cade Alger

into a source of strength. The Knights will also count on Michael Solario, a transfer from Central Catholic, Michael Kamps and returning all-league wide receiver Sean McGovern to create plays down field. Ripon Christian will roster 14 fewer players than it did in the section final, but it remains confident it can return to atone for its poor play. “We are further along than any one us anticipated,” Ozenbaugh said on the eve of the Knights’ scrimmage on Aug. 10. “We have kids that are coachable and seldom do they make the same mistake twice.”

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ABOVE PHOTO: Former Ripon Christian head coach Randy Fasani, left, has returned as an offensive coordinator under Trey Ozenbaugh. LEFT PHOTO: Ripon Christian players sprint downfield as part of their cooldown routine at the end of practice. JONAMAR JACINTO/ The Bulletin

INDIANS LEAN ON IRON MEN

Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

TVL co-champions lacking depth, but not talent By JA M ES BURNS Bulletin c orresp ondent

The Ripon High football team shares more than just the Trans-Valley League throne with Modesto Christian. The Indians, who split the 2017 crown with the Crusaders and Escalon, also suffer from low turnout at the varsity level. Coach Chris Musseman will begin the season with just 23 on the varsity roster. That number is compounded by a small senior class. Of the eight seniors, Musseman says only six have football experience. “We feel a little like Modesto Christian,” Musseman said of the Crusaders, who have 18 on the varsity roster. Modesto Christian is coached by Mike Parsons, who guided his smallrostered program to a CIF State Small-School championship in 2009 and the Sac-Joaquin Section Division VI final last fall. “We’ll have 23 kids on varsity, so it’s definitely iron man football. It does (make me nervous). The 23 we have will compete with anybody, but if we get dinged up or have injuries, it’s going to be difficult.” The strength of the football team will be a strong junior class accustomed to playing iron man football. The junior class went 9-1 at the frosh-soph level last fall, and its only loss was to Sutter. Musseman said that group understands the rigors of iron man football: There will be some who won’t leave the field on Friday evenings; they’ll be asked to play offense, defense and special teams. “For us, it’s not just about offense and defense. These kids have to play special teams, too,” Musseman said. “You’re asking kids to play a lot of snaps on Friday night. Kids have to know more than one spot. It takes a certain type of mentality and toughness to do that.” Musseman believes he’s got the right 23, a balanced mix of veterans and juniors ready to make an impact. Roland Davis returns at running back and outside linebacker and running back Justin Hansen will inherit a bulk of the carries. Greg Clark is the only returning starter on the offensive line, but the unit is boosted by the arrival of 6-foot-2, 215pound junior Caleb Delgado. Clark will also play middle linebacker. Juniors Danny Hernandez and Nico Ilardi are expected to be immediate contributors, as well. However, the leader is senior quarterback Ryan Daggett, who, like many of his teammates, may play multiple positions. A decorated multi-sport athlete, Daggett could see time at defensive back, safety or outside linebacker, Musseman said. On a team hurting for depth, Ripon can’t afford to leave Daggett’s athleticism and football sense on the bench for half of the game. He’ll also play outside the pocket, too. “You’re going to see him use his legs a lot more,” Musseman

Photo by WAYNE THALLANDER

Ripon running back Grant Wiebe tries to create separation with a stiff arm.

said. “He spent a lot of time in the offseason learning defenses and how to read them. Things he struggled with the last two years, he’s really improved on this year. “I wouldn’t be surprised to see him on the defensive side from time to time, too.” Ripon will be challenged out the gates with Weston Ranch and quarterback Amier Bowen, who passed for more than 2,500 yards and 20 touchdowns last fall. Bowen is widely regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the southern half

of the Sac-Joaquin Section by many publications and media outlets. The Indians host Weston Ranch Aug. 17. The schedule also includes a trip to Sonora on Aug. 24. Ripon also hosts Central Valley (Aug. 31) and Calaveras (Sept. 7), and then launches into TVL play with Hilmar (Sept. 14). The Indians may be hurting for numbers, but Musseman and his team don’t lack confidence. “I really like the group. The scary part is the numbers,”

SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 17 vs. W. Ranch Saturday, Aug. 25 at Sonora Friday, Aug. 31 vs. C. Valley Friday, Sept. 7 vs. Calaveras Friday, Sept. 14 vs. Hilmar Friday, Sept. 21 vs. Riverbank Friday, Sept. 28 at Livingston Friday, Oct. 12 at Escalon Friday, Oct. 19 vs. Hughson Friday, Oct. 26 at Modesto Ch.

Musseman said. “The kids we have, even though they’re young and inexperienced, they’re good players.”

Photo by WAYNE THALLANDER

LEFT PHOTO: Third-year senior quarterback Ryan Daggett led Ripon to the Sac-Joaquin Section Division V semifinals and a three-way share of the Trans-Valley League title in 2017. TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Ripon linebacker Brandon Rainer, right, grabs hold of the Mountain House ball carrier during a four-team jamboree held at Stouffer Field. BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: Ripon running back Roland Davis sprints for the open field in a full-contact scrimmage against Mountain House.

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Football Preview

The Bulletin-Thursday, August 16, 2018

2018 DELTA CHARTER FOOTBALL AUGUST 17

AUGUST 25

AUGUST 31

SEPTEMBER 7

SEPTEMBER 14

@ Delta

@ Encina Prep

@ BretHarte

@ Gold. Sierra

vs Turlock Chr

Clarksburg, 7 pm

Sacramento, 11 am

Angels Camp, 7 pm

Garden Valley, 7 pm

SEPTEMBER 22

SEPTEMBER 28

OCTOBER 6

OCTOBER 13

OCTOBER 19

MILLENNIUM

@ Sierra Ridge

BROOKSIDE

BIG VALLEY

@ Stone Ridge

Delta Charter, 1 pm

Fricot City, 1 pm

Delta Charter, 1 pm

Hilmar, 7 pm

Merced, 7 pm

HEAD COACH Jeff Tilton (Humboldt State University, San Joaquin Delta College, Manteca High School)

ASSISTANT COACHES John Griggs (Chico State University, San Joaquin Delta College, Manteca High School) Ricky Martinez (Minot State University, San Joaquin Delta College, Manteca High School) Armando Tailes (Azuza Pacific University, Bret Harte High School)