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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
A to Z guide to season A
is for Abeyta. Former Ripon High football coach Manuel Abeyta passed away on Aug. 4. Though he never coached Chris Johnson, he was instrumental in welcoming the Indians’ current head coach to the community in 1983. is for broJAMES ken bones. BURNS Ripon Managing Editor Christian wide receiver Spencer Hower broke both his wrists in a skateboarding fall at Curt Pernice Skate Park. The all-Southern League performer missed most of the Knights’ summer workouts and sat out a contact camp with Sonora, Central Catholic and Calaveras. is for chain gang. Typically, when a play carries out of bounds, the chain gang scatters. Weston Ranch may have the only chain gang member looking for contact. MMA rising star Vince Bordi will man the Cougars’ chains this fall. Bordi currently holds two MMA belts. is for the Dead Period. The CIF mandated that all fall sports observe a period of no organized team activity from July 22 to Aug. 12. is for Escalon. Ripon’s longtime rival, the Cougars should get major contributions on both sides of the ball from Josh Redding. The senior is Escalon’s top returning rusher (223 yards) and led the team with five interceptions last fall. Ripon hosts Escalon Sept. 27. is for facilities. East Union has multi-million dollar plans in hand to renovate Dino Cunial Stadium. Manteca has also begun looking at ways to modernize Guss Schmiedt Field. Ripon Christian may beat them all to the punch with an athletic complex that will provide fields for soccer and football, as well as upgrade the facilities for baseball and softball. is for Gardner. Remember the name? Manteca is tasked with corralling 1,500-yard running back J’Quan Gardner in its season opener at Central Valley. Gardner is the cousin of former Manteca High point guard Kiwi Gardner. is for Help Wanted. The Knights will begin the season with fewer than 20 players on the varsity roster. First-year coach Randy Fasani said his program is handcuffed by the boys soccer program and lack of football tradition. is for new identity. Weston Ranch coach Seth Davis interrupted his program’s spring and summer routines to give back to the community. The Cougars took part in the Flags Over Manteca program, helping set out and pick up 2,400 flags along the city’s arterial streets. “That’s the new face of our program – putting others before us as a team,” Davis said. is for jumpers. Manteca juniors Carl Chandler and Lechi Nkwocha qualified for the SacJoaquin Section Masters meet in the triple jump in May and led the Buffaloes to their second consecutive Valley Oak League track title. is for kickers. Manteca soccer player Marcus Montano could have the strongest leg in the area. The junior has reportedly kicked field goals from 50 yards with relative ease in non-game situations, yet only attempted one last fall. He was 24 of 25 on PATs, while splitting duties with thensenior Matt Kuhnlenz. is for Lopez. East Union running back Victor Lopez had a modest season in 2012,
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ABOVE PHOTO: A behind the scenes look as Manteca Bulletin Managing Editor James Burns helps get players in position for the cover group shot for the Manteca Bulletin 2013 Football Preview as Sports Editor Jonamar Jacinto (back center) and Sports Reporter John-Joel Griffiths (back left) help out the at the Manteca Bulletin building on Aug. 15. LEFT PHOTO: Marcus Sanders, Sierra senior wide receiver.
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WHAT’S INSIDE u A to Z column/ About cover, Page 2 u Manteca High profile, Page 3 u Year in Review, Pages 4-5 u East Union profile, Page 6 u Sierra profile, Page 7 u Technology changes game, Page 9 u Lathrop profile, Page 10 u Ripon profile, Page 11 u Breakout players, Page 12 u Composite schedule, Page 13 u Instagram Challenge, Page 13 u Top games to watch, Page 13 u Ripon Christian profile, Page 14 u Weston Ranch, Page 15
CREDITS u EDITORS: Jonamar Jacinto (Sports Editor), James Burns (Managing Editor) u WRITERS: Jonamar Jacinto, James Burns u DESIGNER: Ryan Balbuena u PHOTOGRAPHY: Hime Romero, Sean Kahler, Jonamar Jacinto, JohnJoel Griffiths u GRAPHICS: Curt Murray u ADVERTISING: Doreen Wynn, Araceli Govea
ABOUT THE COVER
u Inspired by Nike’s “Pro ComServingÊtheÊcommu bat” marketing HIME ROMERO/ The Bulletin campaign, The Bulletin’s (two catches, 17 yards in 2012). rushing for 185 yards and two touch- and Jake Pruitt, respectively. cover is for the Valley Oak League. Expectations are high for each, but downs. Those numbers could skyfeaOakdale is the six-time rocket this fall as the Lancers change look for Menzel, a record-setter as tures defending champion, but a a sophomore at East Union, to force to a run-heavy attack with Lopez in playrun-first Manteca to think pass more seventh may be a stretch. The Musthe lead seat. HIME ers is for Machado. Area tangs graduated a boat load of talent, often. ROMERO ServingÊtheÊcommunit Staff Photographer from football fans will get two is for realignment. It’s comincluding three-year varsity quarterOak Dental Group is fall a multi-specialty East chancesValley to see Orestimba’s ing next – and so is Cenback Spencer Thomas. Union, Lathrop, Steven Machado, one of Northern tral Catholic, a state smallis for Willie Herrera.Mark A. Hochhalter, group practice committed to excellence. DDS Manteca, Ripon California’s top running backs. school power. The Raiders become The East Union head . 79 19 e . nc 9 si 7 y it Bonnie J. Morehead, DDS 19 un Our Pediatric Department provides a m e m coach is 2-18minun y sinc itseaand Sierra. PlayOrestimba travels to East Union the VOL’s first private school, two Serving the co the com ng vi er S Rudy R. Ciccarelli, DDS comfortable, caring atmosphere forbehind yourbychildren. ers included: Sept. 6 and Ripon Nov. 1. The Westassuming the vacancy left sons after the Lancers’ last playoff East Union’s Nick side Warrior has rushed for 3,220 Sonora. An original member of the appearance under Mike James. Elizabeth C. Grecco, DDS We provide the latest General McGill DDS and Jose yards and 26 touchdowns in two varValley Oak League, Dentistry the Wildcats They begin Year 3 of his tenureRon G. Joseph, Oak Dental isLode a multi-specialty proceduresValley in a state-of-the-art suite.with four consecutive home gamesGeneral Maltez; Lathsity seasons. will play in theGroup Motherdental League Dentistry Daman P.Hochhalter, Saini, DDS to excellence. rop’s Josh Elliott is for new offense, new group practice is forcommitted sophomores. Ripon to start the season. Mark A. DDS Our Oral Surgery Department provides general and Hawaii Leaf Harneet K. Saini, DDS defense. The Lancers change Christian’s Tyler Driesen is for quick exits. Manteca, Bonnie J. Morehead, DDS Our Department provides a andPediatric I.V. sedation in a safe, professional A’teo; Manteca’s from the anesthesia spread to the wing, and Will Kamps would have the area’s most decorated Rudy R. Ciccarelli, DDS comfortable, caring atmosphere for your children. Billy Sharmoug a run-based attack that relies on played and likely started for the program and last section environment. Elizabeth C. Grecco, DDS We provide the latestago General Dentistrychampion, hasn’t won a playoff ga,e and Alex Laurel; deception, to better utilize personnel. Knights a season as freshmen, DDS procedures in were a state-of-the-art dental since suite.2007. In that time, the Buffs Ron G. Joseph, Ripon’s Bradley The same is true of their defense. but they prohibited from playDaman P. Saini, DDS Clark and Michael East Union switches from a 4-4Our to Oral ingSurgery varsity because of CIF rule. At are 0-4 in the postseason. Mohammad El Farra, DDS* Department provides general • Most Insurancethe Plans they Accepted Harneet K. Ysit; Saini, DDS and Sierra’s a 3-4. each 14. is for “Your guess is as good anesthesiatime, and I.V. were sedation in a safe, professional Prachi D. Shah, DDSand Jake Pruitt is for O-fer. Lathrop went Office Hours is for tests. Manteca hosts • Extended (Saturdays & Evenings) as mine.” Sierra coach Jeff environment. *General Dentist Practice Limited to Chi Bryson Sanders. 0-10 last fall and hasn’t Santa Clara Wilcox in Week Harbison doesn’t know what • Specialists In One Location The players gathwon a game since blanking 1 (Sept. 6). Wilcox went 8-4 to expect from his run game. The Pediatric Dentistry ered in the parking Kimball 14-0 in the final game of in 2012 and reached the second Timberwolves’ top returning rushers Mohammad El Farra, DDS* Lab; Same Day • Most Insurance Plans lot ofDDS The Bulletin the 2011 season.•InOn-Site all, the Spartans round of the Repairs CentralAccepted Coast Section are Pruitt (58 carries for 249 yards)Prachi D. Shah, for a photo shoot have lost 17 of their last 18 games. playoffs. MoreHours importantly for head & Evenings) and Garrett DeVillanueva (two car• Extended Office (Saturdays • Dental Implants *General Dentist Practice Limited to Children conducted by Bulcoach Eric Reis, Wilcox arrives one ries, 3 yards). Graduated stars Guillis for prospects. The chatter Mark A. Grecco, DMD - Dip • Specialists In One Location • Esthetic Dentistry letin&photographer week after a season-opening contest ermo Nunez and Cota rushed forBoard of Oral and buzz surrounding some of Maxillofaci • On-Site Lab;one Same Hime Romero. The of theDay Bay Repairs Area’s heavy- more than 2,500 of the team’s 3,034 the area’s top football players • Oral Consciousagainst Sedation Oral & Maxillofacia picture was then weights – Valley Christian of San yards last fall. is quiet – for now. Though they’re • Dental Implants dropped into- aDiplom Jose. undersized by most Division-I stanis for Week Zero. The season Mark A. Grecco, DMD • Same Day Crowns MEMBERS OF: • Esthetic Dentistry scene created by dards, Manteca offensive linemen is for under-the-radar playbegins Friday with four teams Board of Oral & Maxillofacial S Bulletin graphic Isaac McClain and Billy Sharmoug ers. Without all-world runin action: Manteca at Central • Oral Conscious Sedation • California Dental Associat artist Curt Murray, will play their way onto someone’s ning back Anthony Cota Valley, Sierra at Tracy, Grace Davis • Same Day Crowns AmericanOF: Dental Associat who set the mood recruiting board. (Modesto Junior College) to lean on, at East Union and Bret Harte at • MEMBERS • San Joaquin P.P.A. for the illustration is for quarterbacks. Manteca the Timberwolves will take to the Ripon. • California Dental Association with an angry sky and Sierra should have two skies often this fall. Pruitt has a big• American Dental Association with lightning and of the Central Valley’s top play receiver in Bryson Sanders, To contact James Burns, e-mail • San Joaquin P.P.A. cloud cover. gunslingers in Joe Menzel but don’t sleep on Lucas Widmer jburns@mantecabulletin.com.
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2013 Prep Football Preview SCHEDULE
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
M A N T E C A
All games start at 7:30 p.m., unless noted Aug. 30 @ Central Valley Sept. 6 vs. Wilcox (San Clara) Sept. 13 @ Los Banos Sept. 20 Bye Sept. 27 vs. Sonora* Oct. 4 vs. Lathrop* Oct. 11 @ Oakdale* Oct. 18 vs. Kimball* Oct. 25 @ Weston Ranch* Nov. 1 @ Sierra* Nov. 8 vs. East Union* * Valley Oak League game
H I G H
B U F F A L O E S
EXTRA POINTS u MVP IN THE MAKING: Senior running back Alex Laurel has tacked on 15 pounds of muscle to his 5-foot-8 frame, which should add another dimension to his game. He’ll get most of the carries at running back this fall and could post MVP-type numbers behind the Valley Oak League’s best offensive line. “We’ve had him playing a lot of defense and running the ball,” Reis said. “This year, we’ll have him just running.” u X-FACTOR, PART II: Senior Brandon Dabney has drawn comparisons to another No. 2 from Manteca’s decorated past – Michael Turner, a superstar on the 2005 section championship team and a Division 1 recruit. Give Dabney this: He has a similar game. He is a shutdown corner and the Buffaloes’ No. 1 option at wide receiver. He shined at the West High scrimmages. u DADDY’S BOY: The newest addition to Manteca’s massive offensive line is senior Joe Eavenson. The 6-foot-6, 320-pounder suffered a head injury as a freshman, delaying his development as a football player. Eavenson has strong roots: His father, Dan, is a former collegiate lineman and the Buffaloes’ line coach. u GREEN MACHINE A LEMON? Manteca has qualified for the postseason 10 times in Eric Reis’ 12 seasons as head coach, including four straight trips. The only problem: Each of those four berths have ended in a firstround loss. The last three losses have been decisive losses to Sacramento-area schools, including a 30-21 defeat to Inderkum last fall. u GET DEFENSIVE: The coaching staff says the biggest difference between Manteca High teams now and those from the early 2000s (when Manteca won all three of its section titles) is defense. The Buffs have an experienced defensive line, anchored by Billy Sharmoug and Isaac McClain, but its linebacking corps is “green, green, green,” Reis said, and had trouble with the inside run during summer drills and scrimmages.
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Manteca High senior Billy Sharmoug gets ready to take the field for practice on Aug. 17 in preparation for the upcoming season.
FAMILY TRADITION Legacy hopes to join brothers as champion By J A M E S B UR NS
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illy Sharmoug is one of the strongest linemen to ever play for Manteca High coach Eric Reis. “The kid can bench press 315 pounds nine times. Nine times,” Reis said. “He’s a very powerful kid with a strong upper body.” Good thing, too, because the senior carries the weight of an entire program on his shoulders. Simply stated: Sharmoug, a third-year starter at left guard, wants to return the Buffaloes to the Valley Oak League and SacJoaquin Section’s proverbial mountaintops. The pressure is welcomed. The burden of expectation accepted. He proudly wields the Shepherd’s Stick, a bent metal staff bestowed upon the team leader by former Shepherds. “It’s a great honor. It’s special to me,” Sharmoug said. “It’s something that has been passed down year after year. My middle brother (Mohamed) was there the year it was founded.” Sharmoug is forever linked by his kin to the Buffaloes’ glory years, a string of Sac-Joaquin Section championships in the early 2000s. Carlo Sharmoug helped hoist Manteca’s first-ever section championship banner in 2001. Later, Gus Sharmoug was a
NEW FACE
u All-American college lineman Brian Rohles returns to his alma mater to help coach the freshman team and serves as the varRohles sity special teams coordinator. Rohles was a member of the 2005 section championship team and would later play a starring role with the Minot State Beavers.
key member of the 2005 team that throttled Sonora in the final for the first of back-toback championships. Mohamed Sharmoug played for the 2004 team that lost a nail-biter at Rio Linda with a failed fourth-down conversion in the red zone in the final seconds. Billy Sharmoug was raised around that culture of winning and dominance. He’d like to continue the family tradition, and he’s down to his last shot. “It’s my motivation. Two out of the three section championship teams here at Manteca High have had Sharmougs on them. I feel like it’s something that I have to carry on … being a Sharmoug myself,” he said. “They rag on me a little bit, because the last two years haven’t been so good. I tell them just wait. I have high expectations for this season.” Manteca finished 6-5 last season and third in the Valley Oak League behind Sierra and Oakdale, the six-time defending champ. The
Buffaloes clinched a playoff berth but were bounced by Inderkum in the first round. And so continued a disturbing trend for Manteca faithful so accustomed to long postseason pushes. The Buffaloes were 9-2 in 2011 – Sharmoug’s first full season at the varsity level – but were retired by Consumes Oaks, 14-0. In all, Manteca hasn’t made it out of the first round of the playoffs since 2007, when it beat Foothill. Reis has countered by beefing up his nonleague schedule. The Buffs open at Central Valley, which boasts a game-changer in running back Ja’Quan Gardner, and then take on Wilcox (San Clara) and Los Banos before beginning VOL play against Sonora on Sept. 13. “If you’re going to win this thing, you have to play good teams,” Reis said. “I think Oakdale has proven that the past few years, playing up against teams like Oceanside. When you play against teams in Sacramento, they have athletes galore. I’d rather find out now what we have instead of Week 7.” What Reis has in abundance are legacies – players with direct ties to its championship teams in the early 2000s. Sharmoug is just a start. Elijah Cooper and Michael Hatfield have older brothers who played for Reis and his staff, and Steven Ruble was a water boy long before he was a pass-catching tight-end. “What’s cool about this team is that we have some legacies,” Reis said. “Billy’s older brothers played for me. Elijah Cooper, his older brother played for us. … Those guys were around for the glory days and I think they want to put their name up there.” To contact James Burns, e-mail jburns@ mantecabulletin.com.
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
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S E A S O N
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Photos by HIME ROMERO/Recaps by JONAMAR JACINTO
R E V I E W
ZERO WEEK Manteca’s newest school hosted Tracy’s oldest in this pairing of former Valley Oak League foes. Anthony Cota of Sierra kicked off his recordbreaking campaign with 176 rushing yards and two TDs in a 32-26 victory over Tracy High. Jayson Manuta gave a boost in crunch time, connecting with Jordan Lewis for a 51-yard touchdown on a halfback pass. QB Guillermo Nunez threw the game-winning TD with 3:42 remaining, and the Sierra defense tightened up to secure the win. In other Zero Week action: Ripon 45, Bret Harte 0 — Ripon players left Angels Camp dissatisfied, an indication of how gaudy expectations were for what culminated into an outstanding season for the Indians. Miscues plagued them early,
WEEK 1
but they finished with a 444-163 advantage in yards gained from scrimmage. Cole Herrin was one of many standouts on this night, hauling in nine passes for 100 yards and a TD. St. Mary’s 67, East Union 13 — It was 27-0 by the end of the first quarter in Stockton, as St.
Mary’s went over, around and through the Lancer defense with its high-powered offense let by QB Kaleb Parrish. He had racked up three passing scores and one rushing by the 6:49 mark of the second quarter. Mantecan Logan Sanders chipped in two TDs for the Rams.
workhorse in the first half of its season opener, as Eddie Smith handled 17 of the team’s first 23 rushes. He had 126 yards (finishing with 164) and three TDs in the first half. The defense dominated, giving up only 14 rushing yards after allowing a 41-yard rush on the first play from scrimmage. Sierra 52, Grace Davis 6 — Anthony Cota broke Sierra’s single-game touchdown mark with seven, the last of which was scored 1 minute, 15
Ripon High celebrated the completion of Phase 1 of the Stouffer Field Revitalization Project with a 47-7 throttling of Linden. The Indians took control early with Anthony Baciocco breaking into the end zone three different ways in the first half: a 9-yard catch, 35-yard interception return and 41-yard run. Linden was outgained 441 yards to its own 146 and didn’t get on the scoreboard until there was 5:21 left in the game. In other Week 1 action: Manteca 34, Edison 6 — Manteca rode its
WEEK 2
SEE WEEK
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WEEK 3 On the night that Lathrop High dedicated Bennie Gatto Field it was Ripon celebrating in the end, capping its preseason run with a 4-0 record and a 37-3 victory. It started well for the host Spartans when Eric De Leon nailed a 34-yard field goal for an early lead. Josh McCreath (146 yards, 2 TDs) anchored the offense, but it was Ripon’s defense that kept Lathrop at bay as the Spartans failed to capitalize on six turnovers.
James Sams took center stage in one of the area’s marquee Week 2 matchups, spearheading Los Banos’ 42-28 win at Manteca with his unforgettable effort. He gashed the Buffalo defense for 337 yards and three scores on 49 carries. Los Banos led 14-0 in the first quarter, but Manteca would later take its only lead, 21-20, with Alex Laurel’s 93-yard TD on the opening kickoff of the second half. The Tigers
countered with a decisive 21-point rally. In other Week 2 action: Ripon 62, Ripon Christian 13 — The Ripon Bowl rivalry game went to Ripon High for a seventh consecutive year, this time by a 62-13 margin. With SEE WEEK
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In other Week 3 action: Stagg 51, Manteca 47 — Arguably the most electrifying game of the year ended in heartache for Manteca, which led the explosive Delta Kings 41-29 after piling up 27 thirdquarter points. Behind QB Wayne Brooks (395 yards, six SEE WEEK
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WEEK 4
WEEK 5
Playing in his first VOL game as a varsity player, sophomore QB Lucas Garcia lifted the Lancers to a 28-7 triumph over Lathrop at East Union. He accounted for three of EU’s touchdowns (2 passing, 1 rushing), while RBs Mark Aguilar (17 carries, 118 yards) and Victor Lopez (11 carries, 66 yards, TD) helped take the load off the underclassman. It would be the only win for EU in 2012. In other Week 4 action: Ripon 34, Escalon 28 — Ripon kicked off its 2013 TVL run with a wild win over the defending champion Cougars. Ripon had to ward off a furious Escalon comeback after leading 28-7 early in the fourth quarter. With the score tied at 28-28, Bradley Clark (6 receptions, 114 yards) hauled in the winning 34-yard TD pass from Kyle Wengel with
There were three homecoming games in the area, one involving intra-city rivals. Sierra bounced back from its first, and what would end up being its only, regular-season defeat with a 63-7 shellacking of East Union. Quarterbacks Jake Pruitt (14-16, 214 yards, TD) and Guillermo Nunez (2-2, 54 yards, TD; 101 rushing yards, 2 TDs) and RB Anthony Cota (21 rushes, 87 yards, 4 TDs) spearheaded the rout. Mark Aguilar rushed 14 times for 90 yards and the only score for EU. 55.9 seconds remaining. It was Ripon’s first win over its traditional rival since the mid 1990s. Oakdale 49, Sierra 7 — The biggest VOL game of the week
turned out to be a dud. Sierra was expected to be Oakdale’s stiffest challenge to its thrown, SEE WEEK
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In other Week 5 action: Manteca 34, Weston Ranch 6 — Alex Esan’s 87-yard TD on a kickoff return gave Weston Ranch life early, but the Cougars’ offense couldn’t get on track as Manteca rolled to a homecoming victory.
WEEK 6
Eddie Smith scored three touchdowns, and QB Ryan Fox threw for 92 yards and ran for 93. Ripon 52, Modesto Christian 0 — That Ripon won was no surprise. That it did so this decisively was. Talented MC was celebrating homecoming and the school’s 50-year anniversary, but it was the Indians who put forth the spirited effort. Defensively, they allowed just 3 total yards from scrimmage in the first half. Kyle Wengel made the most of his nine passing attempts, completing seven of them including four for TDs. Ripon Christian 50, Denair 14 — Andrew Brown teed off on the Denair defense, scoring six TDs while piling up 324 all-purpose yards. Clayton Blankers led the defense with 13 tackles.
WEEK 7
gling teams. Ripon continued its pattern The Cougars’ of alternating near-perfect defense performances with lackluster clamped down efforts. This was one of the after ★ giving ★ up ★ ★good ★ nights. Michael Ysit set an EU score the tone with a 95-yard kickoff early in the first return on the opening play, half. The Couand the Indians didn’t let up gars answered from there in a 42-7 thumping Professional Window & Gutter Cleaning with Alex of reigning section champion Esan’s 76-yard Hilmar. Although the Yellow209-450-2756 TD return on jackets tied it up at 7-all early Visit us at www.fivestar-windows.com for other services the ensuing in the second quarter, Ripon kickoff, and returned fireWe with aDo 35-point Licensed It Right! ★ ★ ★ ★ ★John McDonflurry that went unanswered. & Insured ald’s 19-yard run with 8:30 left in the fourth was Kyle Wengel threw forOffered: 216 Services #0700010398 the deciding play. yards and 3 TDs, and breakout • Clark New Screens Ripon 35, Hughson 27 — Ripon was nearly star Bradley (108 yards, 2 stunned on its homecoming a week after Cleaning TDs) was his receiver. certainly looked at later in the Professionalnight Window & Gutter • top Re-Screens throttling the Modesto Christian Crusaders on when they would miss a Sun7 action: Screens year 209-450-2756 theirs. The Indians blew open a 21-0 lead, but In other•Week playoff berth. The Buffaloes • Dryer Vent Cleaning - Blocks up20 to— 90% of relied heat on the big-play ability of Hughson — Visit led by RBwww.fi Tanner Duron (112 yards)for other Manteca Sonora us at vestar-windows.com services 27, • Gutter and QB Kyle Kerlee (185 rushing yards, 2Cleaning TDs) — In other Week 6 action: Manteca didn’t lead until the up toAlex - Lowers Temps 15º Laurel (79 rushing yards, We Do It Right! did Licensed not go away quietly, scoring 27 unanswered Weston Ranch 12, East Union 7 — A final 27 seconds of Sonora’s 2 total TDs) to spark them after Protects fl oors & furniture • Pigeon Control ★★★★★ depleted Weston Ranch team rallied to spoil EU’s homecoming game, one that trailing 14-0 at halftime. It was & Insured SEE WEEK 6,Services PAGE 13 Offered: homecoming night in a matchup of two strugthe tradition-rich Wildcats his 23-yard reception from QB #0700010398 Sierra’s Anthony Cota returned to his old stomping grounds at Manteca High and stomped his way to 222 rushing yards and five TDs in a 35-26 rivalry win. The star RB, who transferred after his freshman season, finally got the better of his former teammates after losing as a sophomore on the varsity team and missing the 2011 contest (another defeat for Sierra) while out with a broken arm. The Buffaloes countered with Eddie Smith (121 yards, TD) but were ultimately stumped by two failed fourth-and-short plays.
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
WEEK 8
WEEK 9
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Anthony Cota continued to his assault on the Sierra High record books, rushing for a new singlegame best 361 yards and four touchdowns on 37 carries while lifting the Timberwolves to a 47-42 win over Sonora. Quarterback Jake Pruitt balanced the offense with 275 yards and two TDs on 18-of24 passing. His 67-yard TD pass to Bryson Sanders gave Sierra a 47-28 lead with 6:11 left. Sonora scored 14 unanswered but came up short as its postseason hopes took a significant hit. In other Week 8 action: Ripon 41, Riverbank 19 — Ripon ran its undefeated streak to nine and clinched at least a share of the TVL title despite sloppy play that kept Riverbank in the ballgame early. The Indians took a 21-0 lead into the second quarter but turned the ball over on their first drives of the opening two periods. Anthony Baciocco carved up the Bruins defense for 130 yards and two TDs on just 12 rushes. Manteca 56, Lathrop 0 — There was no stop-
ping the Buffaloes on this night, as they moved the ball at will offensively no matter who was in the game. Six different players scored, and QB Joe Menzel completed all five of his passes for 138 yards and three TDs. Waterford 49, Ripon Christian 7 — Two dynamic backs were featured in the marquee SL matchup of the night, but in the end it was all Dylan Gonzalez (191 yards, 3 TDs) and the Wildcats. Andrew Brown (75 rushing yards, 71 receiving) gave RC an early lead with a TD catch, but the injury-depleted Knights struggled to keep pace. Kimball 53, East Union 28 — Kimball overwhelmed EU with its superior speed and athleticism, amassing 519 yards of offense. The Lancers struck first inside the first two minutes of the game, but the Jaguars swung back with a 34-point flurry for the remainder of the half. Oakdale 54, Weston Ranch 0 — Oakdale scored early and often, mounting a 47-0 halftime lead.
The mighty Mustangs of Oakdale nearly went the length of the VOL season unchallenged. Manteca, however, proved itself worthy against the eventual section and NorCal champion. When the dust settled, Oakdale’s impenetrable defense was the difference in a 28-7 win. Alex Laurel’s 28-yard TD run gave Manteca hope with 5:59 to go in the third, cutting Oakdale’s lead to 14-7. But the Mustangs’ dominated possession the rest of the way, claiming at least a share of a sixth straight VOL championship. The win was extra special for Oakdale’s Trent Merzon, who became the winningest coach in school history. In other Week 9 action: Ripon 48, Orestimba 24 — The Indians punctuated a 10-0 season, the first for the program since 1983, in Newman, but it didn’t come easy. They needed a 27-point burst
ZERO WEEK
in the fourth quarter to prevail after trailing 24-21 through three. Anthony Baciocco’s 7-yard run and 40-yard interception return keyed the late barrage. Orestimba standout Steven Machado rumbled for 229 yards and two scores. Ripon Christian 54, Gustine 17 — Coming off a tough loss, RC outgained Gustine 616-284 in a tune-up of its pivotal Week 10 confrontation with Le Grand. Dan Vos was plenty productive for the Knights, completing 9 of 13 passes for 312 yards and four touchdowns. That’s not all — he added a pair of field goals and converted six extra points.
Sierra 46, Lathrop 0 — Jordan Lewis opened the floodgates for Sierra with an 80-yard punt return, and Anthony Cota was in on six different scoring plays — three rushing TDs, one passing, one receiving and a conversion run. Kimball 55, Weston Ranch 7 — Weston Ranch’s only score came off a defensive turnover, with linebacker Eddie Melero scooping up a fumble and taking it to the house. The offense, meanwhile, sputtered, as Kimball scored off all four of the Cougars’ turnovers and added points with a punt return. Sonora 61, East Union 27 — It was somewhat of a breakthrough effort for the Lancers, who finished with 317 yards of offense, had two TD passes from QB Aaron Ramos and 105 yards on 18 rushes from Mark Aguilar. Sonora, however, torched EU for 33 second-quarter points and led 54-13 at halftime.
WEEK 11 — PLAYOFFS
The last time Manteca played at East Union’s Dino Cunial Field, the Buffaloes had their bid for a perfect season dashed in one of the area’s biggest stunners in recent memory. They made certain not to overlook the Lancers two years later, rolling into the postseason with a commanding 55-0 victory. It was an inauspicious start for Manteca though, as it opened with three straight false-start penalties from scrimmage. On Take 4, Eddie Smith raced 77 yards to the end zone. He scored again on defense in the second quarter, returning a fumble 18 yards. Alex Laurel broke two big touchdown runs in the second half, one of them a punt return. Manteca was in full control throughout, outgaining EU 369-89. In other Week 10 action: Ripon Christian 35, Le Grand 21 — With a full complement of players available for action, RC pulled off the shocker of the season with its victory over the reigning SL champion. The result forced a three-way share of the title with Waterford. Andrew Brown rushed for 119 yards and two TDs, completed a 58-yard pass and scored on a 95-yard
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It wasn’t the expected first-round blowout expected of third-seeded Sierra, but it advanced to the quarterfinals of the Sac-Joaquin Section Division III playoffs with its 28-8 triumph over No. 14 Rosemont. The Wolverines opened with a 12-play, 61-yard scoring drive, but Sierra’s defense, which forced four turnovers, dominated from there. Jordan Lewis jump started Sierra with a 42-yard TD on a punt return, and Anthony Cota (134 yards, TD) became the school’s all-time single-season rusher. kickoff return. Sierra 49, Weston Ranch 0 — The Timberwolves didn’t skip a beat after record-breaking rusher Anthony Cota hobbled off the field with an ankle injury early in the second quarter. Jake Pruitt (10-13, 245 yards, 3 TDs; rushing TD) and Jordan Lewis (4 receptions, 125 yards, TD) more than made up for the loss in the passing game. Kimball 28, Lathrop 20 —
The Spartans nearly capped off a season of frustration with a bang but was thwarted by Kimball’s high-powered offense in the end. Lathrop appeared to be on its way to another blowout defeat after falling behind 20-0 in the first quarter. The tough running of Alex Relova (102 yards, TD) and Kevin Rainey (100 yards) along with a valiant effort from the defense gave the Spartans a chance in the second half.
In other Week 11 action: Ripon 40, Amador 0 — The undefeated Indians erased a 15-year drought of playoff wins with their shutout of Division IV No. 14 seed Amador. Ripon wasn’t particularly sharp, but the defense — led by Josh Clark’s three interceptions — did its job. Anthony Baciocco racked up 101 yards of offense and three TDs, while Jake McCreath bulled his way to 124 yards and two scores. Inderkum 30, Manteca 21 — Costly mistakes and the big-play ability of No. 6 Inderkum did in the upset-minded Buffaloes in the Division III bracket. Eddie Smith grinded out 118 yards and a TD in his
final game for Manteca, while Inderkum QB CJ Stewart recorded 189 yards and three TDs on 8-of-12 passing. Ripon Christian 42, Elliot Christian 22 — Hosting its first-round Division VI contest at Modesto Christian, Ripon Christian wasn’t fully comfortable until QB/LB Dan Vos returned an interception 84 yards early in the fourth quarter to give the Knights 35-15 lead. He wound up tossing three TDs, completing a conversion pass and nailing 3 of 4 PATs.
WEEK 12 — PLAYOFFS The football season came to an end on a rainy night for the three remaining teams alive in the playoffs. The center of attention was a regional showdown between smallschool powerhouse Central Catholic, the No. 6 seed in the SJS Division IV bracket, and the undefeated third seed, Ripon. While the Indians had homefield advantage on their side, CC was the clear favorite. That was validated in the final score, a 40-21 win for the Raiders, but no other team tested them as well as Ripon did for the entire postseason. Ripon quickly climbed back from a 17-0 deficit and scored 21 straight points to take an eye-opening lead into the intermission. Ultimately, six turnovers and the supremely talented Raiders were too much to overcome. Ray Lomas IV (152 yards, TD) and Rey Vega (110 yards, 3 TDs) went on to lead CC to SJS, NorCal and State Bowl championships. In other Week 12 action: Inderkum 69, Sierra 48 — Inderkum’s powerful wing-T attack slashed Sierra’s defense for 509 rushing yards with three different ball carriers each contributing more than 130 in the
Division III quarterfinal. Sierra coughed up four turnovers, and star RB Anthony Cota (97 yards, 2 TDs) was held in check for the most part. He did complete two TD passes that kept Sierra within reach in the third quarter. Foresthill 32, Ripon Christian 23 — Despite venturing deep into Placer County to face the top-seeded team in Division VI, many felt the Knights had a good chance to return home
with a ticket to their first-ever championship-round appearance. Their chances took a major hit when featured back Andrew Brown did not return from an injury after getting hurt on his second carry of the game. Foresthill capitalized by scoring 32 straight points. Ripon Christian, to its credit, made a game of it with a comeback charge spearheaded by QB Dan Vos and Clayton Blankers.
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
E A S T
U N I O N
H I G H
SCHEDULE All games start at 7:30 p.m., unless noted Aug. 30 vs. Grace Davis Sept. 6 vs. Orestimba Sept. 20 vs. Modesto Christian Sept. 27 vs. Oakdale* Oct. 4 @ Kimball* Oct. 11 vs. Sonora Oct. 18 @ Lathrop Oct. 25 vs. Sierra Nov. 1 @ Weston Ranch Nov. 8 @ Manteca * Valley Oak League
L A N C E R S
EXTRA POINTS
Photos by SEAN KAHLER
TOP PHOTO: Heady coach Willie Herrera keeps his players together before a break. BOTTOM PHOTO: Quarterback Isaiah Gordon escapes the pocket while keeping his eyes downfield in search of open receivers.
HOLD THE SPREAD New wing ‘O’ better suits QB Gordon B y J O NAMAR JAC I NTO
I
T h e Bu lletin
saiah Gordon doesn’t want to be known as “Teejay’s little brother.” Teejay quarterbacked the last East Union team to make the playoffs in 2009 — the Lancers’ first appearance since 1992. “My brother was the star here and was hyped up,” said Isaiah, a first-year varsity senior and EU’s current signal caller. “Now that I’m here, I don’t feel like I have to be just as good as him, but I just want to prove a point, I guess you can say.” That point? He is not his brother. And this is not his brother’s offense. There is no bitterness in what he is saying at all. He just wants the comparisons to end. Isaiah will have his chance to make a name for himself as the conductor of East Union’s new wing offense. In 2008, then-head coach Mike James and his staff installed a spread offense to take advantage of Teejay’s skill set and the athletic abilities of those around him. “He was perfect for it,” East Union head coach Willie Herrera, defensive coordinator during the Teejay Era. “(Isaiah) doesn’t like to hear the comparisons with his brother, but they are two different types of players. Teejay is an extraordinary athlete. Isaiah is not as athletic but has a better arm and is more physical. He’s definitely ready to lead the offense.” The 2012 season marked the end of the spread at East Union — for now, perhaps. The Lancers are coming off a 1-9 season in which they used two quarterbacks who were better suited for another type of offense. “I don’t think the spread fit our personnel,” said senior Jeremy Turner, an undersized but hardnosed left tackle. “I like (the wing)
NEW FACE
u The 6-foot-4, 250pound Hunter Logue hopes to make an impact in his only year at East Union. A senior transfer from Logue Modesto, Logue beefs up the defensive line and provides depth on the offensive side. “Chemistrywise, he fit right in with the guys,” coach Willie Herrera said. “We’re real fortunate with him. He’s a nice kid, it’s a bonus that he’s big and an extra bonus that he is big and can contribute.” offense because you don’t have to be the biggest guy to take on the biggest guys.” He and the rest of the Lancers did just that during their four-day, three-night stay at the Lake Tahoe Football Camp. There, they were pitted against Capital Christian (10-2 in 2012) of Sacramento. The Cougars are led by 6-foot-6, 280pound defensive end Nifae Lealao, a two-sport star (basketball) who has received offers from the likes of Boise State, Cal, Oregon and Stanford. “I just cut (blocked) him the whole time, but that was cool,” Turner said. “In the future when I watch him on TV, I can say I played against that guy.” The smaller Lancers got the better of Capital Christian behind its revamped offense and swarming defense. “It’s going pretty good,” Isaiah Gordon said. “We’ve worked really hard on it and had some success with it at the (Lake Tahoe) camp. We won the championship up there and we’re hoping to carry that over into the season.”
u EARLY MOMENTUM: East Union’s ambitious preleague schedule in 2012 started with St. Mary’s, head coach Willie Herrera’s alma mater and a premier parochial power in Northern California. This year, Modesto’s Grace Davis (six wins in three years) replaces St. Mary’s, while rematches with Orestimba and Modesto Christian follow. All three of the Lancers’ nonleague contests are at home. u TAHOE REIGN: The Lancers spent part of their summer sleeping in the rain. They were one of seven teams at the Lake Tahoe Football Camp to have to endure what Herrera called “miserable conditions.” Players pitched tents in the rain every night, but Herrera said the experience brought the team together. The weather was perfect for the fourth and final day of the camp, and No. 2 seeded EU beat No. 1 Capital Christian in a full-contact scrimmage. u SLASH: Lucas Garcia shared time at quarterback as a sophomore, but his days behind center may be numbered after sustaining an elbow injury during the baseball season. That doesn’t mean he can’t contribute to the football team. He is a “dynamic athlete” who Herrera says will be used at “all sorts of places, offensively and defensively.”
Herrera said the reason for the shift in offense was to “put our guys in the best position to win a game. Looking at our guys coming up, we did not have the athletes to run (the spread) offense right now. That’s not to say we don’t have athletes because we do, but we had to step back and look at what kind of kids we have year in and year out at this school and build an offense on that.” Wing offenses are traditionally run-first and allow for smaller linemen to have success, as they rely more on pulling, trapping, double teaming, angles and deception than sheer size and brute strength. Center Rocky Perez (6-0, 225) is the team’s lone returning starter, and tight end Clay Cuneo (6-4, 225) has worked his way into the starting lineup, as well as a leadership role,
and will be key as a blocker. “We’re not going to wow anyone with our size, but I’ll take somebody like Jeremy Turner (5-7, 160) every time,” Herrera said. Former quarterback Lucas Garcia leads the receiving corps, which includes Eddie Daube and tight end Issac Danhoff. “I like all of our receivers,” Gordon said. “There isn’t a specific one I look for.” Victor Lopez (5-10, 195) will carry the load from the backfield. A standout running back in the lower levels, Lopez has bulked up and improved his speed to be the guy. He enjoyed some success in limited action last year, averaging 6.4 yards per carry and finishing with 185 yards and two touchdowns. SEE LANCERS, PAGE 13
u LITTLE BIG MAN: EU may have the smallest left tackle in the area in 5-foot-7, 160pound Jeremy Turner. He makes up for his lack of size with toughness, fearlessness and smarts. In the Lancers’ newly-implemented wing offense, those attributes carry more weight than sheer size. “He epitomizes what we’re trying to do,” Herrera said. u GETTING DEFENSIVE: Injuries prompted a midseason makeover to the defense, which went to a 4-4 formation. Jason Stock is back in the fold after spending four years across town at Manteca; the defensive coordinator is implementing the more familiar 3-4 that Herrera prefers. The 3-4 requires a good set of linebackers, and the coaches like what they have with Nick McGill (6-1, 200) and Angel Roblero (6-2, 215) inside, and Quintin Casey (5-10, 185) and Victor Lopez (5-10, 195) outside.
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
SCHEDULE
S I E R R A
All games start at 7:30 p.m., unless noted Aug. 30 @ Tracy Sept. 6 @ Grace Davis Sept. 13 vs. Cesar Chavez Sept. 27 vs. Kimball* Oct. 4 @ Sonora* Oct. 11 vs. Lathrop* Oct. 18 @ Oakdale* Oct. 25 @ East Union* Nov. 1 vs. Manteca* Nov. 8 vs. Weston Ranch* * Valley Oak League game
H I G H
T I M B E R W O L V E S
SIERRA AIR
EXTRA POINTS u DIFFERENT ‘D’: Sierra’s nickel defense (five defensive backs) has been slightly altered for 2013. The Timberwolves are going away from a 3-3 front in favor of a 4-2 (four linemen, two linebackers). Harbison likes the depth and experience in the trenches. Returning all-VOL selection Aaron Thiel (6-0, 215) is accompanied by senior classmates Devonte Reese and Khalil Williams on the line. There are also high hopes for junior Trevon McCray at linebacker. He gained playoff experience as a sophomore call-up last year. Safety Hunter Peterson and cornerback Jonathan Montoya help shore up the defensive backfield, which showed much promise at the Patterson passing tournament.
Pruitt, passing game ready for liftoff By J ONA M A R J A C INTO
S
Th e B u l l e t i n
ierra could always pass, but it’s been a run-first attack out of the spread-option in recent years. And who can blame them? “Obviously, we have been spoiled for the past five years to have a top featured back,” said offensive coordinator Jeff Abrew, referencing record-breaking running backs Jarrod Daniels and Anthony Cota. Daniels helped Sierra make its first postseason appearance in 2008, and in 2009 he shattered several single-season and career rushing marks while leading the Timberwolves to their first Valley Oak League championship and a program-high 11 wins. Cota followed Daniels, starting in the backfield as a sophomore after transferring from Manteca. Last year, he eclipsed many of Daniels’ records, finishing with 1,966 yards and 38 touchdowns. “Having (Cota) really opened up the passing game, because teams were coming in with blitzes to try and stop him,” said senior quarterback Jake Pruitt, who is now the centerpiece of Sierra’s spread. With no proven running back to lean on, the Timberwolves are going to take it to the air in 2013. And who can blame them? The 6-foot-3, 195-pound Pruitt appears to have improved from an impressive junior campaign, putting his talents on display in Patterson’s passing tournament over the summer. Sierra won the title. He started as the backup to then-senior Guillermo Nunez last season but finished as the starter, completing 62.5 percent of passes for 1,626 yards, eight touchdowns and five interceptions. As long as he stays healthy, count on him lapping those numbers. “The passing game is going to definitely be at the forefront of our offense this year and it’s going to start with Jake,” Abrew said. “Jake’s a natural who is developing into a great quarterback. He understands the offense really well. He understands what we expect of him, he understands the reads and he can let it fly. He can make every throw and we’re very comfortable with him running the offense.” Pruitt also aims to be more of a threat in the running game much like his predecessors were in the read-option. “I worked on my speed a lot and cut some weight,” Pruitt said. “I don’t have Anthony Cota to save my butt this year.” Head coach Jeff Harbison insists Pruitt has always had some running ability. “We saw it in the first play of the game versus East Union (last year). He went 60 some-odd yards.” Abrew agrees but isn’t getting carried away. “If the defense is asleep on his running ability they could be surprised, but he’s definitely a passer first,” he said. The Timberwolves have some tall and talented targets for Pruitt to throw to. The 6-foot-2 Bryson Sanders made the biggest splash in camp after catching 18 passes for 364 yards and a touchdown a year ago, but Pruitt said he is fortunate to have enough weapons around him to not rely on just one. Hunter Johnson (6-5) and Lucas Widmer (6-3) are others who stood
u SAFETY LAST: Threeyear starter Garrett DeVillanueva is going to play a third different position for the Timberwolves. A linebacker as a sophomore, he moved to strong safety last year and contributed 58 tackles and four interceptions to earn all-Valley Oak League first-team honors. With converted linebacker Reid Maestsas — who posted team-highs 75 tackles and five sacks in 2012 — sliding to a strong safety spot, DeVillanueva will be asked to cover even more ground as Sierra’s free safety. u WINNING TRADITION: It took 13 years for Sierra to qualify for the Sac-Joaquin Section playoffs for the first time. Since ending that streak in 2008, the Timberwolves have missed the postseason just once (2011) while proving worthy of their berths by going 4-4 in the “second season.” During that five-year stretch, Sierra went 41-17 under head coach Jeff Harbison. u CAN YOU KICK IT: Yes he can. She can, too. Sierra opened camp with two kickers on the roster and the coaches believe that both deserve to stay on board. Incumbent placekicker Joshua Gonzalez earned his keep last season, converting 64 of 68 pointafter kicks and all four of his field goal attempts. Junior Marissa LaQuaglia, a soccer player in the spring, comes up from the sophomore squad.
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
ABOVE PHOTO: Sierra senior quarterback Jake Pruitt warms up during an Aug. 15 practice at Sierra High in preparation for the 2013 season. TOP PHOTO: Varsity head coach Jeff Harbison keeps a close eye on his team.
out in the offseason. Juniors Alex Barnett and Devin Nunez also figure to contribute. This depth, Abrew believes, should help make up for the loss of the team’s two most productive receivers in the graduated Jordan Lewis (37-670-4) and Dakota Conners (43-501-4), who will focus on baseball his senior year. “Size-wise, it’s the tallest receiving corps we’ve had,” Abrew said. “We’re five or six deep and they can all catch. We’re excited about what our receivers can bring to the table.” The offensive line, of course, will be key to Sierra’s success. While not short on size, they are short on experience this season with three-year starting center Adam Bettencourt (6-0, 250) as the lone returner. Guard Joseph Valenzuela got into the action during Sierra’s playoff run as a sophomore call-up. “Other than that, it’s a fresh group of players coming up from the JV,” Bettencourt said. He’ll also have to get used to the new emphasis on passing, a challenge he is looking forward to taking on. Like any lineman, though, he does prefer to go right at defenses with a power running game. “It’s a little bit harder (to pass block),” he said. “You have to think more because you have to pay attention and pick up blitzes. It’s more of a mental game.” Sierra isn’t abandoning the run game entirely. While there is no proven 1,000-yard rusher coming back, Abrew said that the all-senior triumvirate of Anthony Cervantez, Reid Maestas and
NEW FACE
u Labron Alofaituli, who also goes by L.J., is new to the varsity team, but not the program. He played for Sierra’s freshman squad two Alofaituli years ago before transferring to Stockton’s Brookside Christian. The 6-1, 225-pound linebacker contributed 35 tackles and three sacks to the Knights’ run toward the Sac-Joaquin Section Division VI championship. Due to California Interscholastic Federation transfer rules, he’ll have to sit out the first 30 days of the season. Jonathan Montoya allows the team to keep that dimension of the offense in the game plan. “We’re going to ride the hot hand,” Abrew said. “We have guys who are capable (rushers) and are going to get their carries, but we’re definitely going to emphasize the passing game this year.” And who can blame them? To contact Jonamar Jacinto, e-mail jjacinto@ mantecabulletin.com
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2013 Prep Football Preview
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
T E C H N O L O G Y Sierra head coach Jeff Harbison goes over video with defensive players before a recent practice. Sierra uses Hudl to study video
C H A N G E S
G A M E
HELMETS &
HIGH-DEF
HIME ROMERO/ The Bulletin
Hudl, iPads, revolutionize prep football By J A M ES BURN S The Bu lletin
O
n a sticky summer afternoon, the familiar sights and sounds of football season return to this Central Valley stadium. Tis the season of the 7-on-7 passing tournament … only in the north end zone, it feels more like Super Bowl Media Day. Several tiny cameras are lifted high in the air by tripods, capturing a bird’s-eye view of the field below. It’s an interesting clash of old versus new – helmets and high-def video, pads and new points of view. For coaches, it’s not enough to see the action from the field or press box along the sidelines. Knowledge is often king in a game so physically demanding, and having an eye in the sky shooting down the center of the field offers a fresh perspective. “In the past, we’ve been restricted to the side view,” said Lathrop’s first-year head coach Steve Wichman, formerly the freshman coach at Kimball. “Back-view cameras let us see the line play.” Small innovations in technology have revolutionized the high school game, from high-def video to iPads and iPhones to the proliferation of networking sites. Nine years after MaxPreps became the authority on the dissemination of news and information on high school athletics, Hudl has emerged as another industry force. Only their specialty is game film – not rosters, schedules and statistics. Hudl was founded in 2006 on the simple premise that coaches could make video, diagrams and presentations available to their target audience over the Internet. In the past, coaches would record or burn copies of their game film, and then meet an opposing coach at a designated location over the weekend to exchange tapes or DVDs. The time, plus the gas expense, made the whole process costly and laborious. Hudl simply expedited the weekly ritual by inviting in today’s technology. Now, teams and scouts can access game film across the country just a few clicks. The entire Valley Oak League utilizes Hudl, Sierra coach Jeff Harbison said. “Film study is film study however you want to look at it,” Wichman said. “It’s necessary. It’s a teaching tool, a way to prepare coaches and
Photo illustration by CURT MURRAY/The Bulletin
players. There are different ways you can look at film. The innovation of the Hudl network has made exchanging film a lot simpler for us coaches.”
“Film study is film study however you want to look at it. It’s necessary. It’s a teaching tool, a way to prepare coaches and players.” — STEVE WICHMAN, LATHROP’S FIRSTYEAR HEAD COACH It’s already proven itself to be a valuable commodity in the Valley Oak League. Harbison swears by it. Sierra’s championship run in 2009 was defined, in part,
by the players’ buy-in to Harbison’s requirements of the Hudl program. “For the motivated ones – absolutely, it’s an advantage,” said Harbison, who initiated the program within a week of discovering it in 2009. His players are not only required to break down film as a team twice a week, but they must also study their position and opponent at home. Each player is given access to the program and proper training. No one has taken the at-home film study more serious than John Perez, a senior with the 2009 Timberwolves. The linebacker ranked among the Timberwolves’ statistical leaders that fall with 70 tackles, three sacks and one interception. His 48 solo stops were tops on the team. Perez would talk with Harbison each weekend, reviewing Friday’s performance while also looking ahead to the next opponent. He would parlay that conversation into his at-home film study, dissecting his opponent’s tendencies.
HIME ROMERO/The Bulletin
Sierra head coach Jeff Harbison goes over game film during a practice on Aug. 15 at Sierra High as the T’Wolves prep for this upcoming season.
By the time Monday’s practice began, Perez would be locked into his assignments and the game plan. His preparation, Harbison says, was instrumental in the program’s first-ever Valley Oak League championship. “He was a great linebacker,” Harbison said, “and he took us a long way through his preparation.” Sierra went 11-2 and 6-1 in league play, and advanced
to the semifinal round of the Sac-Joaquin Section Division III playoffs. While Manteca High has utilized an iPad on game night to relay calls for a few years now, East Union has gone next level with its Mac/ Apple products. Head coach Willie Herrera and his staff have equipped their iPad and iPhones with the Coaches Eye app, which allows them to break down footage frame by frame.
During the Modesto Junior College passing tournament in July, Herrera used the application to record his quarterbacks’ footwork. “We’re always looking into incorporating technology in our program,” Herrera said. “As long as we get access, we want to try and take advantage.” To contact James Burns, e-mail jburns@mantecabulletin.com.
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
L A T H R O P
H I G H
S P A R T A N S
LAYING IT ON THE LINE
New-look offense relying on allsenior group
EXTRA POINTS
B y J O NAMAR JAC I NTO
S
u THE ‘O’ GOES ‘I’: First-year head coach Steven Wichman is going back to his roots and to the roots of his father Rob, who heads the Lathrop’s linemen. The Spartans lined up in the wishbone offensively in their first three seasons, but Wichman has them running out of the familiar I-back formation. He orchestrated the “I” as quarterback for then-head coach Steve Lopez at West (Tracy). Both Lopez and Rob Wichman played in the same offense for legendary Tracy High head coach Wayne Schneider. “We feel that it suits us best with the players we have,” the younger Wichman said.
T h e Bu lletin
ome of the biggest personalities on a football team come from offensive linemen. That is certainly the case at Lathrop High. Even right guard Angelo Crescini — who head coach Steven Wichman describes as “all-business, calm and quiet” — can’t help himself. “That’s the laziest player on the team,” the normally soft-spoken Crescini said while breaking from his original thought in an interview. He simultaneously gestured toward a teammate who was strolling by. “He’s also the heaviest.” A smile then stretches across his face before he starts laughing. “Just a bunch of jokers here,” he continued. “We all make fun of each other, but it’s cool.” The player on the butt end of his quip is Joey Lopez, the hammer of the offensive line. The 6-foot, 270pound left guard isn’t bothered by what his fellow linemen say because he can dish it back. It’s just part of the chemistry the group has built up since they were freshmen. “We’re the hardest working group out here in my opinion, but with all the seriousness there needs to be a time where you can lay back a little bit and have a good laugh,” Lopez said. “Last year we had our dinners for the linemen and it just brings us together. If we can communicate on the football field as well as we do outside of the football field that will only make this team better.” It is that unselfishness that has Steven Wichman excited about his first year of head coaching the Spartans. “All of these guys really are great team players,” he said. “The fact that they’re all seniors just makes it a good situation for all of us. They’re natural leaders in their own way. It’s a very close-knit group, which is important for the position.” The rest of the line consists of left tackle Omar Fernandez (6-2, 230), center Johnny Barajas (5-9-220) and right tackle Michael Santos (5-10, 240). Barajas is the glue, a given for his position on the line. He and Lopez have the most experience, which goes back to their early years in Pop Warner. Santos is similar to Crescini in that he provides what Wichman calls “quiet humor to help lighten the mood.” And they refer to the outspoken Fernandez as “The Mayor” partly because of his leadership qualities. “He’s always out in the community participating in community events and community service,” Lopez said of Fernandez. “He’s our ‘Mr. Spirit,’ ” Crescini interjected. It’s rare to have an entire unit of starting linemen returning as seniors, and they are hopeful that gives them an advantage. Last season, some of them were thrown into the fire because of injuries to original starters. Crescini (5-10, 215) is the least experienced of the bunch, but line coach Rob Wichman is quick to call him “one of my leaders.” “I’m 0-10 in my high school career,” said Crescini, who didn’t play at the lower levels. “I’m done with losing. I’m eager to get that
SCHEDULE All games start at 7:30 p.m., unless noted Sept. 6 vs. Liberty Ranch Sept. 13 @ Capital Christian Sept. 20 @ Ripon Sept. 27 vs. Weston Ranch* Oct. 4 @ Manteca* Oct. 11 @ Sierra* Oct. 18 vs. East Union* Oct. 25 vs. Sonora* Nov. 1 @ Oakdale* Nov. 8 vs. Kimball* * Valley Oak League game
NEW FACES
JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin
TOP PHOTO: T.J. Conley tries to shed a blocker as he zeroes in on the running back. ABOVE PHOTO: Assistant coach Rob Wichman gets his linemen organized before the offense runs a play.
first win. “We’re a hungry group right now. Last year all five of us started most of our games. We lost all of the games, but it was a good learning experience for us. We know what we were doing wrong last year, and we worked hard over the summer to pick up the new offense.” It’s the third different offense the upperclassmen have played in. The past two years the Spartans went from wishbone to spread and back to wishbone. Wichman and his coaching staff are running the traditional I-back that he played under as a quarterback for West High of Tracy over a decade ago. “It’s a lot different than what they’re used to in the past,” Wichman said. “There are a lot of rules and assignments that are applied to each of their positions on every play. We asked them to be students
of the game and they come into practice every day ready to learn. “They suit our offense very well. Not only are they physical, but athletic and very good on their feet. That really benefits our offense and style of play.” Lopez credits the coaching staff for bringing stability to the offensive line. Rob Wichman, Steven’s father, has 25-plus years of experience coaching at the high school level and has a firm grasp of the offense having played in it for former Tracy High head coach Wayne Schneider. “Starting out it was really tough because it’s a no-huddle offense and we’re using the numbers system, but it’s starting to click now,” Lopez said. “(The coaches) do a great job of breaking it down for us so that we understand what we’re supposed to do.” Himself a wise guy, the elder
u Joining first-year head coach Steven Wichman are two of his former VOL rivals with champiMartinez onship pedigrees. Ricky Martinez and Sean Ward Ward played for Manteca High’s Sac-Joaquin Section championship team. Martinez was a teammate of Wichman’s at Delta College before starring at Minot State. He is now the Spartans’ defensive coordinator and running backs coach. Ward heads the team’s secondary and receivers. Wichman hasn’t taken long in getting comfortable with his athletes. He switches gears from lighthearted trash talker to drill sergeant and back — whatever it takes for the players to respond. His coaching style has mixed well with the personalities of the linemen so far. “I’m enjoying it,” Wichman said. “This group doesn’t complain, they just come to work like it’s a job but they’re having fun at the same time. I think they’re expecting some big things. What that means, who knows? But I think they’re definitely better than an 0-10 team and they know that.” To contact Jonamar Jacinto, e-mail jjacinto@mantecabulletin. com
u BACK BEHIND CENTER: Kenny Garrett showed promise in camp last season but ended up sharing time at quarterback with then-senior Preston Rizo. Now the job is solely Garrett’s, and his coach has full confidence in him. Along with the requisite throwing ability, Wichman likes his pocket presence and ability to extend plays with his legs. “Kenny is an all-around athletic quarterback with a lot of versatility in his game,” Wichman said. u RAINEY DAYS AHEAD: Like Garrett, Kevin Rainey didn’t have the breakout year he envisioned as a junior, as the shifty tailback had little room to roam behind a young and injury-ravaged offensive line. He has since gained strength to run between tackles, and in front of him is an experienced line of seniors. The addition of hard-hitting fullbacks Josh Elliot and Hawaii Leaf a’ Teo to the backfield could help push him over the hump. u THINK INSIDE THE BOX: Lathrop hopes to be more stout on defense, and it starts with the front seven. Elliot leads the 4-3 at middle linebacker, and the powerful Leaf a’ Teo mans one of the outside spots. Michael Santos (5-10, 240) anchors the interior of the line, while there is size and athleticism on the edges with T.J. Conley (6-4, 215) and Nathan Ogunbanwo (6-4, 210). u FUTBOL/FOOTBALL: Wichman places as much importance on special teams as he does other facets of the game. He was relieved to find out an experienced kicker with a strong leg is returning. Erik De Leon will once again spend much of his time at Bennie Gatto Field this fall season, first as a goalie on the varsity soccer team. “From what I am told, he’s a very good kicker,” said Wichman, who didn’t get a chance to see him boot the pigskin until late in the first week of official practices.
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2013 Prep Football Preview SCHEDULE All games start at 7:30 p.m., unless noted Aug. 30 vs. Bret Harte Sept. 6 @ Linden Sept. 13 vs. Ripon Chris tian Sept. 20 vs. Lathrop Sept. 27 vs. Escalon* Oct. 4 vs. Modesto Chris tian* Oct. 11 @ Hughson* Oct. 18 @ Hilmar* Oct. 25 @ Riverbank* Nov. 11 vs. Orestimba* * Trans-Valley League game EXTRA POINTS u CHASING HUGHSON: With all-league running back Tanner Duron back in the fold, Ripon head coach Chris Johnson believes the Huskies are the team to beat in the Trans-Valley League. Duron rushed for 1,806 yards and totaled 24 touchdowns as Hughson went 6-5 and qualified for the Sac-Joaquin Section playoffs in 2012. Hughson played Ripon tough in a 35-27 loss last fall. u CATCHING CLARK: Defenses will key on wide receiver Bradley Clark (40 receptions, 693 yards, 15 TDs) but better not sleep on Ripon’s other Clark – Josh Clark. The senior running back/safety is arguably the team’s strongest player, pound for pound, and he’s lightning quick too. The 5-foot-10, 165-pound Clark shredded the West High defense during its summer camp, running through tackles and by defensive backs. u TWO-WAY TALENT: Ripon returns a wealth of talent from its Trans-Valley League championship team, including multiple players who started on offense and defense. Headlining that group are: Michael Ysit, running back and linebacker; Troy Burth, offensive lineman and linebacker; Bradley Clark, wide receiver and safety; and Michael Morris, running back and linebacker. u CONSOLATION PRIZE: Ripon’s historic season was dashed with a 40-21 loss to eventual state champion Central Catholic in the second round of the Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV playoffs. However, there was a silver lining in Ripon’s only loss of the season: In six postseason games, no one played the Raiders as close as the Indians. Not even ancient rival Escalon, which lost 52-10 in the section final. u MR. ALL-PURPOSE: Graduated star Anthony Baciocco, now a freshman at Redlands University, was one of the area’s ultimate all-purpose players last fall. He totaled 1,120 yards as running back (599 yards), receiver (383), kick and punt returner (63) and defensive back (75). How do you replace that kind of production? With Ryan Fugit, who is “a play away from scoring a touchdown,” said head coach Chris Johnson.
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
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PRICE OF ADMISSION R I P O N
H I G H
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Unique coaching philosophy grooms talent early By J AMES B UR NS
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Th e B ull e t i n
IPON – When Chris Johnson says he’s worked closely with Ripon quarterback Nick Price, he’s not fudging. In some respects, Johnson has been grooming Price for this moment since he was in diapers. “His brother Danny was the quarterback of the first team I coached here at Ripon,” Johnson said. “Nick was a toddler at the time.” Look at him now. The sophomore has a strong, accurate arm and the requisite competitive gene like Danny, a former Division I baseball player, with only one exception. He loves contact. During a broken play against Manteca High at the West High football camp, Price found himself in the crosshairs of a hardcharging lineman. Mismatch? Hardly. “He had no problem throwing his 160 pounds into one of their linemen,” Johnson said. That Price has developed into Ripon’s starting quarterback as a sophomore is a testament to the coaching staff. It’s an odd one, to be sure. Not in personnel, but philosophy. Ripon’s coaching tree lists just one head coach – Chris Johnson – for three levels. The rest are assistant coaches and coordinators, who coach every player at their position, from the first-year freshman to the star senior. There isn’t a “freshman head coach” or “sophomore head coach.” “I wish I could take credit for coming up with it,” said Johnson, whose position coaches share head-coaching duties for the lower levels on Thursday and Friday nights. “They have a saying, ‘Coaching is just plagiarism. You give credit for two years and then it is yours.’ ” Johnson adopted the system from a coach in Georgia, who served as speaker at a clinic, and it has paid dividends. Ripon is 24-9 in the last three years, including 13-5 against TransValley League opposition. Johnson said the system better prepares his younger players for the varsity level. Incoming freshmen are allowed to work with the varsity position coaches, introducing them to the terminology and playbook, technique and expectation. “No. 1, it allows our coaches to be very good at one thing. Instead of having to coach different positions AND being in charge of special teams, they’re
JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin
TOP PHOTO: Sophomore quarterback Nick Price gets ready to hand the ball off. BOTTOM PHOTO: Bradley Clark snatches the ball out of the air during a route-running drill at the West High full-contact camp.
allowed to dial into what they want to do at one position,” Johnson said. “No. 2, it allows our program to feel like one big program. Freshmen don’t feel like second-class citizens here because they’ve got the varsity running backs coach helping them every day.” The investment, he says, is in the varsity product; not much time is spent breaking down film for the lower-level games. “It’s been a good deal for our kids and coaches. The technique. The player development. Sure, we’ve sacrificed a few wins at the lower levels because we don’t game plan or watch much film for their games, but they’ll be better varsity players. No one remembers the freshman cham-
pionship you won. It’s what you do as a varsity player.” Price is proof the system works. Johnson has managed Price’s development since the moment he stepped on campus. Price started for the sophomore team last fall and will be charged with filling the shoes of Kyle Wengel, who passed for nearly 3,500 yards and 47 touchdowns in two seasons as a starter. “When I get to work with him – and every quarterback in our program – I would hope that I’d be a good enough coach that there is some development that goes on,” Johnson said. To contact James Burns, e-mail jburns@mantecabulletin.com.
NEW FACE
u Chris Musseman has received a promotion. A longtime fixture on head coach Chris Johnson’s staff, Musseman takes over Musseman as defensive coordinator for Darin Higgins, who left to be the head coach at Liberty Ranch in Galt. Musseman was the defensive backs coach. His unit recorded 19 interceptions last fall.
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
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hey’ve toiled in the shadows of others. They’ve struggled with injury and doubt and distractions, and have left their pain on the weight-room floor. Through it all, they’ve kept their focus on fall’s Friday night lights, emerging as captains and leaders and MVP types. This is their time now – everyone’s sure of it – so remember the names. Introducing 2013’s breakout performers:
ALEX LAUREL
NICK McGILL
ERIC BROKER
MICHAEL YSIT
Running back, Manteca High
Linebacker, East Union High
u There was a time last fall when Manteca head coach Eric Reis worried Laurel wouldn’t make it through the season. Though immensely talented on the field, a player capable of terrorizing defensive coordinators with his zoomzoom speed, Laurel struggled with demons off of it. Academic and behavioral issues were becoming noticeable distractions. “He needed to make some choices,” Reis said. “Obviously, he’s made the right choices.” Laurel’s transformation is best captured through the eyes of his teammates, who believe the running back/defensive back can be the Valley Oak League’s Most Valuable Player. The Buffs will rotate in multiple backs, but Laurel, who has added 15 pounds to his 5-foot-8 frame, will garner most of the carries. His nickname is “Nitro,” and with Billy Sharmoug and Isaac McClain clearing lanes, Manteca could be off to the races this fall. “We’re so excited to see the maturation,” Reis said. “The guy has been working hard and he’s come a long way from where he was last year.” He showed flashes of his potential in 2012. Laurel totaled 650 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns, while leading the team in return yards. He also scored the game-winning TD against Sonora, reeling in a 23-yard strike from Joe Menzel.
u By all accounts, McGill’s breakout season should have come in 2012. “He was developing into something special,” East Union coach Willie Herrera said. McGill had his junior season cut short when a teammate blew threw his left leg while combining on a tackle against Weston Ranch on Oct. 5. The aftermath was chilling and all-too graphic: McGill’s bone had burst through the skin and his Achilles’ tendon was shredded. “It was one of those injuries where you think to yourself, ‘I hope he can run again,’ ” Herrera said. McGill can do more than run. He was named to the all-camp team during East Union’s summer trip to Lake Tahoe and has emerged a leader on the field and off. While his success – and any hope of a college suitor – likely hinges on the pins holding together his left leg, McGill, a fullback/linebacker, passes the eye test. He stands 6 feet, 2 inches, tips the scales at 190 pounds, and was clocked at 4.6 seconds in the 40-yard dash. He can bench press 270 pounds and squat a small elephant. Before his season-ending injury, McGill had 33 tackles, three for a loss.
Offensive/Defensive Lineman, Ripon Christian High
Running back/Linebacker, Ripon High
u Ripon Christian coach Randy Fasani doesn’t invest a whole lot of stock in weight-room numbers, especially when it comes to measuring a lineman’s worth. Case in point: Eric Broker, an all-Southern League performer a season ago who has played larger than his 6-foot-2, 215-pound frame. Broker is dwarfed by some of his teammates – some two grade levels younger than him – but good luck moving the third-year senior. “He’s strong like a bull,” Fasani said. Interchangeable, too. Broker will likely play every position along the Knights’ offensive line, charged with protecting junior quarterback Billy Marr and opening holes for running back Andrew Brown, the reigning Southern League MVP. But Broker’s biggest impact may come at defensive tackle, where a can-do attitude gives him Hulk-like strength. “Weight-room numbers can be completely deceiving,” Fasani said. “It’s how strong you are when you put on the pads and go onto the field. When he’s on the field with pads strapped on, it’s hard for anybody to block him 1-on-1. … He requires a double team.” Broker had 65 tackles and three sacks last fall. His tackle totals were second most on the team.
u The highs of Ripon High’s historic 2012 season always came with one sobering reminder: Most of that talent was graduating. In June, the Indians waved good-bye to skill players Josh McCreath, Cole Herrin and Anthony Baciocco. Head coach Chris Johnson needed to find replacements. “When you graduate players like McCreath, Herrin and Baciocco,” Johnson said, “others have to step up.” Senior Michael Ysit made it easy on the coaching staff, giving glimpses of his potential during Ripon’s biggest games last fall. He had 157 total yards and two touchdowns in a 34-28 victory over Escalon and nine carries for 70 yards and one receiving score in a 52-0 triumph over Modesto Christian, yet another former state champion. His 97-yard kickoff return set the tone as Ripon ran wild on Hilmar. “Michael had his best games in our biggest games last season,” Johnson said. Ysit (5-8, 170 pounds) will cover the wide side of the field from his outside linebacker position, utilizing his speed (4.7-second 40-yard dash). Offensively, Ysit will be used all over the field – on sweeps, deep routes, screens and dump-offs. “We’re going to find ways to get the ball in his hands,” Johnson said.
OTHERS TO WATCH u JOSH ELLIOT, Lathrop: This 6-foot, 185-pound senior fits head coach Steven Wichman’s mold for a middle linebacker: He’s strong and vocal. Elliot has captained the Spartans’ offseason workouts and made considerable gains in the weight room. In a span of four months, Wichman says Elliot has added 45 pounds to each one of his lifts. Elliot will also see snaps at fullback. “His strength has made him comfortable movementwise on the field,” Wichman said.
Spirit and Determination That's a Winning Combination!
u HAWAII LEAF A’TEO, Lathrop: Don’t be fooled by this Polynesian linebacker’s size. Leaf A’Teo stands just 5-feet, 7-inches tall, but packs a wallop. “His size doesn’t reflect his power,” Wichman said. “He’s a small bundle of power.” Like Elliot, Leaf A’Teo has added 40 pounds to each of his lifts.
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u BRYSON SANDERS, Sierra: A role player a year ago, this 6-foot-2 wide receiver will be strong-armed quarterback Jake Pruitt’s top target this fall. Sanders played a key role on the Timberwolves’ boys basketball team, which reached a second consecutive Sac-Joaquin Section final. With his height, vertical leap, soft hands and no sign of graduated star Anthony Cota, expect Sanders to build upon his junior season totals of 18 catches, 364 yards and two touchdowns.
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2013 Prep Football Preview For highlights from Friday’s top high school football games, follow The Bulletin on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Every Friday night, Bulletin photographer Hime Romero and a fleet of reporters will post updates, pictures and short video clips from the sidelines in almost real time. We’ll try to deliver every touchdown, quarter, halftime
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
Social
Spotlight
INSTA-NEWS
and final score, as well as some coverage of the pre- and postgame ceremonies. Throughout
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the season, from late August to November, media will collect on under the hashtag “#GameOn_ MB.” If you’ve got a photo or video you’d like to submit, mark it with the appropriate hashtag – “#GameOn_MB” – and the best ones may appear in our print and online editions. – James Burns, managing editor
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TEN MUST-SEE GAMES HOME
FRIDAY, AUG. 30
Sept. 6 (Week 1)
Orestimba at East Union: Both teams broke postseason droughts by qualifying in 2010, but EU hasn’t been back since. Orestimba made it back in 2011 and went 5-5 last year while competing in the rugged Trans-Valley League. The Lancers totaled two wins since 2010 and dropped two straight to Orestimba, but they appear poised for a turnaround behind their revamped offense and confident defense. A bubble contender like Orestimba, led by standout RB Steven Machado (1,927 yards, 23 TD, makes for a good early litmus test for EU. A win here could go a long way.
Sept. 27 (Week 4)
Sonora at Manteca: What a way to kick off the Valley Oak League season! This will be the final VOL showdown between two of the conference’s original programs, as Sonora — with its dwindling student population — moves to the Mother Lode League after the 2013-14 school year. Blowouts have been rare in recent years in this traditional rivalry, and their 2012 meeting was another classic. Manteca trailed all game and was down 14-0 at halftime before taking its only lead with 27 seconds remaining and holding on for a 27-20 win to dampen Sonora’s homecoming festivities., Escalon at Ripon: Just down the road from the anticipated SonoraManteca game is another doozy. Not to be outdone, the TVL has its own marquee opener between old-school rivals. Last year, Ripon took its first steps toward the league crown with a wacky 34-28 win at Escalon. The Indians appeared to be on their way to a surprisingly onesided victory while sitting on a 28-7 fourth-quarter lead. Then Escalon mounted a big comeback, tying it 28-28 at one point before Ripon retook the lead for good with 55.9 seconds to go. Ripon hadn’t beaten the Cougars since the mid 1990s and will look to make it two straight on its renovated Stouffer Field.
Nov. 1 (Week 9)
Manteca at Sierra: The VOL championship could come down to this crosstown grudge match. They split their last six encounters, with all but one decided by single-digit margins. Another nail-biter would not be surprising in the 2013 confrontation, and it could be a highscoring affair. Two of the region’s top senior QBs will be featured in this game, as Jake Pruitt leads Sierra’s high-flying spread offense while Manteca counters with Joe Menzel and a balanced, physical attack.
Nov. 8 (Week 10)
Le Grand at Ripon Christian: On Nov. 2, 2012, Le Grand was riding a 35-game winning streak (dating back to 2008) in the Southern League and getting ready to celebrate senior night with yet another outright championship. Ripon Christian reminded the Bulldogs that there was a game still to be played, taking an early lead and never surrendering it en route to a 35-21 shocker that forced a three-way title share with Waterford. Le Grand went on to earn a third straight SJS title. With both teams returning some of their top playmakers, the rematch could again be both meaningful and exciting. — Jonamar Jacinto
AWAY
Aug. 30 (Week 0)
Sierra at Tracy: No area team will be tested out the gate as much as Sierra. Not only are expectations high for the talented Tracy team, but emotions will be as well on this night as the school reveals its new Wayne Schneider Stadium. To top it off, the Bulldogs will be eager to avenge last year’s 32-26 loss. It was a renewal of former Valley Oak League foes, and if the two programs agree to keep it going this could be a must-watch nonleague contest for years to come. Oh, and the tritip sandwiches are to die for.
Oct. 4 (Week 5)
Sierra at Sonora: The Timberwolves have gotten over many humps in recent years. Winning their first game at Sonora’s revered Dunlavy Field isn’t one of them. The curse continued in 2011 when Sierra endured a frustrating 51-37 defeat. The game itself is worth watching because of title and playoff implications. The unique seating arrangement, the on-field band and food make for an awesome Friday night atmosphere. If you haven’t watched a game in Sonora yet this is the time to head to the foothills, as the Wildcats are moving to the Mother Lode League after the school year.
Oct. 11 (Week 6)
Manteca at Oakdale: Perhaps this is the year that 12th-year Manteca head coach Eric Reis gets to celebrate a victory at The Corral. Manteca carries high expectations with many of its top talent returning, and no team in the VOL is hit as hard by graduation as six-time defending champion Oakdale. The Mustangs are coming off a magical run that included Section and NorCal championships. It’s a tough act to follow for a young and unproven group, but with 5,000-plus fans backing them they always have a big advantage at The Corral, where coach Trent Merzon has lost just two league games in his 13 seasons. Ripon at Hughson: Can Hughson make the big splash that Ripon did in 2012? Many believe the Huskies can and will. Meanwhile, Ripon is out to show that it is here to stay. This is no doubt a statement game for both teams. Running back Tanner Duron (1,806 yards, 22 TDs) and QB/RB Kyle Kerlee (1,047 rushing, 7 TDs) were juniors a year ago when Hughson nearly spoiled Ripon’s bid for a perfect regular season, losing 35-27. They are joined by a third dynamic threat out of the backfield in junior QB Devondre Stendardo and others from a 9-1 sophomore team.
Oct. 18 (Week 7)
Sierra at Oakdale: As previously stated, Oakdale has only two league losses at The Corral under 13-year head coach Trent Merzon. One of those defeats came at the hands of Sierra in an epic 2009 battle. The Timberwolves’ 44-42 victory earned them a share of their VOL title, and both teams went on to reach the semifinal round of the SJS Division III playoffs. Sierra hasn’t beaten the Mustangs since and none of those games were close. It’s part of a big stretch for Oakdale, which also hosts Manteca in Week 6. — Jonamar Jacinto
Grace Davis at East Union Manteca at Central Valley Sierra at Tracy Bret Harte at Ripon
FRIDAY, SEPT. 6 Orestimba at East Union Wilcox at Manteca Sierra at Grace Davis (@ Johansen) Liberty Ranch at Lathrop Franklin at Weston Ranch Ripon at Linden Ripon Christian at Elliot Christian
FRIDAY, SEPT. 13 Manteca at Los Banos Cesar Chavez at Sierra Lathrop at Capital Christian Weston Ranch at Tokay Ripon at Ripon Christian
FRIDAY, SEPT. 20 Modesto Christian at East Union Lathrop at Ripon Bear Creek at Weston Ranch Big Valley Christian at Ripon Christian (@ MC)
FRIDAY, SEPT. 27 Oakdale at East Union Sonora at Manteca Kimball at Sierra Weston Ranch at Lathrop Escalon at Ripon Ripon Christian at Mariposa
FRIDAY, OCT. 4 East Union at Kimball Lathrop at Manteca Sierra at Sonora Oakdale at Weston Ranch Modesto Christian at Ripon Denair at Ripon Christian (@ MC)
FRIDAY, OCT. 11 Sonora at East Union Manteca at Oakdale Lathrop at Sierra Weston Ranch at Kimball Ripon at Hughson Turlock Christian at Ripon Christian
FRIDAY, OCT. 18 East Union at Lathrop Kimball at Manteca Sierra at Oakdale Weston Ranch at Sonora Ripon at Hilmar Ripon Christian at Delhi
FRIDAY, OCT. 25 Sierra at East Union Manteca at Weston Ranch Sonora at Lathrop Ripon at Riverbank Waterford at Ripon Christian
FRIDAY, NOV. 1 East Union at Weston Ranch Manteca at Sierra Lathrop at Oakdale Orestimba at Ripon Ripon Christian at Gustine
FRIDAY, NOV. 8 East Union at Manteca Weston Ranch at Sierra Kimball at Lathrop Le Grand at Ripon Christian
WEEK 1 FROM PAGE 4
seconds into the second half. His took the rest of the night off, finishing with 175 yards on 17 carries. Joshua Gonzalez, who was 7 for 7 on PATs, accounted for the rest of the scoring, adding a 23-yard field goal. Liberty Ranch 42, Lathrop 7 — A competitive game early turned into a rout thanks to 28 unanswered points scored by Galt’s Liberty Ranch. There were few highlights for visiting Lathrop, which got an early interception from Preston Rizo and a 17-yard TD pass from Kenny Garrett to Austin Plunk. Weston Ranch 28, Franklin 26 — The Cougars won their first season opener since 2005 in double
WEEK 2 FROM PAGE 4
only 18 healthy players suited up, talented Ripon Christian simply couldn’t keep pace after trading blows early and trailing, 14-13. It was all Ripon from there, as it went on to score 35 points in the first half and rolled up 614 yards of offense. Sierra 48, Laguna Creek 6 — Sierra avenged its 2011 loss to
FROM PAGE 4
TDs), Stagg continued to air it out in the fourth and went ahead for good on a 7-yard pass with 48 seconds remaining. Signal caller Ryan Fox (248 total yards, six TDs) was the standout for the Buffs. Ripon Christian 47, Big Valley 0 — The Knights bounced back well from the previous week’s blowout loss at the hands of rival Ripon. Andrew Brown led the offense with 179 rushing yards and three TDs, while Clayton Blankers racked up 14 tackles and two sacks for the defense. Weston Ranch 16, Bear Creek 8 — Linebacker
WEEK 4 FROM PAGE 4
but the Mustangs instead had their way after rolling to a 21-0 first-quarter lead. Sierra standout Anthony Cota was held to 49 rushing yards, while Oakdale FB Nikk Ryan (142 yards, 3 TDs) stole the spotlight. Ripon Christian 35, Mariposa 14 — There was another key league opener, this one in the small-school SL. Ripon Chris-
FROM PAGE 4
points. Josh McCreath’s 1-yard TD put Ripon back up for good. Ripon Christian 42, Turlock Christian 6 — In this installment of the Andrew Brown Show, the junior RB scored 21 points in the opening 160
FROM PAGE 4
up at Don Nicholson Stadium in Tracy. Ultimately, the night belonged to Anthony Cota (218 rushing yards, 5 TDs; 100 receiving yards, TD) and the Timberwolves, but Kimball QB Zach Johnson (358 passing yards, 4 TDs; 151 rushing yards, TD) also left his mark. Sierra led 58-29 until Kimball scored 16 unanswered in the final 5 minutes.
FROM PAGE 6
Taariq Davis gives EU a change-of-pace back with breakaway speed. Jose Maltez (5-9, 170) is pushing Lopez for carries. Andrew Ortiz is also competing for touches, and fullbacks Angel Roblero (6-2, 215) and Quintin Caasey (5-10, 185) will get theirs for tough yards. “We have a handful of guys who can bring something specific,” Herrera said. Herrera isn’t pigeonholing the team’s new system, preferring to simply call it a “wing offense” since it will line up in variations of the wing-T and the double wing. And while deep with running backs, the Lancers aren’t going to be a predominantly running team. Gordon
show in his season debut after serving a three-game suspension. Sonora 41, Weston Ranch 15 — Weston Ranch’s defense battled valiantly in the early going, but the offense was held to just 10 plays in the first half. Sonora eventually wore down the Cougars with its punishing run game, and Kade Barajas broke two big scoring plays (76-yard kickoff return, 40-yard reception) to put it out of reach in the second half.
seconds of this SL shellacking. Taking over kicking duties for hobbled QB/K Dan Vos (11-16, 181 yards, 2 TDs), he nailed all six of his PATs while scoring all six touchdowns. Oakdale 42, Lathrop 0 — The host Spartans hung tough in the early going, battling the juggernauts from Oakdale to a scoreless first quarter. Oakdale picked up momentum by blocking a field goal and scored 28 unanswered points.
Weston Ranch 15, Lathrop 6 — It was a homecoming battle marred by penalties, special teams miscues and scuffling offenses at Weston Ranch. Down 6-2 in the fourth quarter, the Cougars claimed the lead with a 51-yard pass from Joe Tillman to Traeshon Gulley with 4:41 remaining, and Candelario Elizondo later ran in an insurance TD from 10 yards out. Oakdale 54, East Union 6 — The Mustangs galloped out the gates, scoring 28 firstquarter points and the reserves
LANCERS
second half was just the boost visiting Tokay needed. The Tigers mounted a 28-pount flurry and had four different players score in the second half despite being held to 160 yards of total offense. Capital Christian 34, Lathrop 6 — Touted lineman Nifae Lealao and Capital Christian overwhelmed the Spartans with size and athleticism from the outset. Lathrop’s Kenny Garrett broke up the shutout with 6:54 to go.
Sean Visperas’ 55-yard fumble return tacked on the final points of the game in the waning seconds of the first half, as Weston Ranch dominated throughout on defense. John McDonald (13 rushes, 116 yards) sprinted 80 yards to paydirt on game’s first play from scrimmage. Modesto Christian 31, East Union 6 — The Lancers hung tough over the final three quarters, but MC had done more than enough damage in the opening period to have things under control. They trailed 26-0 by halftime and scored the game’s final points late in the third on Aaron Ramos’ 16-yard run. Mark Aguilar had over 100 yards (76 rushing, 33 receiving) of offense in the defeat.
tian made its biggest statement of the early season, as Andrew Brown (30 rushes, 198 yards, 2 TDs) highlighted a trouncing of a traditional powerhouse. The Knights led 35-0 at halftime. Manteca 42, Kimball 28 — The Buffaloes were locked in a third straight shootout, but on this night they came out on top. Eddie Smith grinded out 200 yards and five TDs for Manteca, while Kimball QB Zach Johnson (14-23, 177 yards, 2 TDs; 201 yards rushing, TD) put on a
WEEK 6
WEEK 7
overtime. Candelario Elizondo bulled his way into the end zone for the third time on the eventual game-winning score, and James Simerley’s twopoint run was the difference. Franklin later came up empty on its conversion pass to extend the contest. Orestimba 31, East Union 13 — Mark Aguilar (140 total yards, TD) and QB Lucas Garcia (18-22, 177 yards) highlighted a balanced attack for EU, but it wasn’t enough for the Lancers to keep up with Orestimba’s punishing ground attack that amassed 376 yards. Ripon Christian 28, Elliot Christian 13 — The Knights had the latest start to the season, playing their opener on Saturday. It was a preview of their postseason matchup to come, as Brandon Dotinga grabbed his second interception late in the game to help hold off Elliot. He also caught a TD pass as RC shot out to a 28-0 lead in the third.
Laguna Creek in a big way, as RB Anthony Cota hit paydirt three times in the first four minutes. Cota finished with 169 yards, and the defense forced five turnovers before losing the shutout midway through the fourth. Tokay 28, Weston Ranch 6 — The defense shined in the first half, helping Weston Ranch carry a 6-0 lead into halftime. A special teams breakdown — resulting in a 91-yard return — to start the
WEEK 3
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continued the domination from there. It wasn’t until late in the fourth quarter that EU got on board with Mark Aguilar’s 2-yard run. Ripon Christian 37, Delhi 21 — Ripon Christian escaped an upset after Delhi battled the Knights to a 14-all tie in the first half. Dan Vos (331 passing yards, 3 TDs), WR Spencer Hower (140 yards, 2 TDs) and RB Andrew Brown (134 receiving yards, 83 rushing) came through with big plays in the second half.
is also an option to contribute in the running game. “It will be based on who we’re playing and what we’re seeing,” Herrera said. “It’s a gameby-game type of thing. If we need to throw on every play that’s what we’ll do. If we need to run 100 percent of the time that’s what we’re going to do.” Gordon is on board with whatever the game plan dictates. He’s not out to match or surpass his brother’s stats and accomplishments. His goal is simple. “Win a championship,” he said. “We all have this mindset that we’re going to be good this year. We’re not listening to what people are saying on the outside, just focusing on what we need to do. If we can maintain that focus in practice and in games, good things will happen.”
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
R I P O N
C H R I S T I A N
K N I G H T S
RC TALKIN’ TITLE High hopes not dampened by low numbers B y JAMES BURNS
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T h e Bu lletin
IPON – Andrew Brown will be the focal point of opposing defenses this season. He gets it. The fast-action Ripon Christian running back has amassed 5,803 yards and 71 touchdowns in two seasons at the varsity level, and in first-year head coach Randy Fasani’s tricky offense there’s no telling where those numbers might stop. But don’t sleep on the Knights’ other offensive pieces. “The key returner that most people will know is Andrew Brown, our starting running back and free safety,” Fasani said. “He’s definitively explosive for the Southern League. “He has a great leadership mentality. He’s basically taken the team under his wings. He also knows that he can’t perform well at all if not for the five guys up front blocking for him. He’s a humble kid who gives all the praise to the linemen who open the holes.” Ripon Christian believes it has the weapons around Brown to not only defend its league championship, but take aim at the program’s first-ever football section title. In 2012, Ripon Christian won nine of its 12 games, clinched a share of the SL crown and won a Sac-Joaquin Section Division VI playoff game for the second consecutive year. However, the Knights’ section title hopes were dashed in the second round with a 32-26 loss to Foresthill. The loss has left Brown and his teammates hungry for more. Brown craves a section championship. It’s the only accomplishment that has eluded him during a sparkling varsity career. “This year, the goal is to get that section title and do as much as I possibly can,” said Brown, who totaled 2,713 yards and 33 touchdowns last fall. “I need to be the best leader I can be.” He carries himself well, displaying a refreshing maturity for a player burdened with the spotlight. “Playing with teammates and the brotherhood bond you only get from football has been the best part,” Brown said. “Anything I’ve done on the football field is a reflection of how my team has played. They’re the best part of this experience.” Brown’s excitement is palpable. His tone spikes as he counts the number of skill play-
SCHEDULE All games start at 7:30 p.m., unless noted Sept. 6 @ Elliot Christian Sept. 13 @ Ripon Sept. 20 vs. Big Valley # Sept. 27 @ Mariposa* Oct. 4 vs. Denair*# Oct. 11 vs. Turlock Ch.* Oct. 18 @ Delhi* Oct. 25 vs. Waterford* Nov. 1 @ Gustine* Nov. 8 vs. Le Grand* * Southern League game # At Modesto Christian EXTRA POINTS u FOREIGN FLAVOR: Assyrian exchange student Bashar Shammas may prove to be a difference maker at receiver this fall. Shammas arrived on campus a bona fide basketball talent, but the 5-foot-11, 170-pound senior has dazzled the football staff with his athleticism. u BILLY THE KID: Junior quarterback Billy Marr earned the trust of his teammates at the Sonora camp. Marr (6-2, 160 pounds) stood tall in the pocket against three of the area’s toughest, blue-collar programs: Sonora, Calaveras and defending state champion Central Catholic, which begins the season ranked No. 6 in the nation by MaxPreps.
JONAMAR JACINTO/The Bulletin
TOP PHOTO: Third-year standout Andrew Brown stiff-arms a teammate to gain separation. BOTTOM PHOTO: Jake Schollenberg, left, and Tyler Driesen work on their pass rush moves.
ers with large stakes in Fasani’s offense. He loves junior quarterback Billy Marr’s presence in the pocket and believes he benefitted from a contact camp with Sonora, Calaveras and defending state champion Central Catholic. Marr attempted only 18 passes in 2012 while apprenticing under all-league talent Danny Vos. Then there are the familiar faces in the huddle. Fullback Casey Kamper carried the ball 66 times for 284 yards and one touchdown last fall. Keegan Rivera will look to build on his two total catches last fall. Third-year varsity player Spencer Hower will likely be Marr’s top target. The 5-foot, 11-inch senior is coming off a junior campaign that featured 32 grabs for 548 yards and six touchdowns. He was named
to the Southern League’s first team. However, Hower missed the entire summer season after breaking his arms in a fall, but Brown insists his best friend and running mate will be ready for the season opener against visiting Elliot Christian. David Henderson, Scott DeHaven and all-league selection Eric Broker anchor the offensive line. “There are 11 guys on the field, and my team does an amazing job of doing what they need to do,” Brown said. “I love our offense and how we move around. Physically, you keep the defense thinking and they’re always confused. Even if you scout us, we make so many changes game to game.” To contact James Burns, e-mail jburns@mantecabulletin.com.
NEW FACE
u When it’s all said and done, Justin Unruh might be Ripon Christian’s MVP – Most Valuable PickUp. The first-year Unruh strength and conditioning coach has been credited with revolutionizing the Knights’ offseason strength program. Unruh, a teacher on campus and familiar face in the weight room, devised a plan that incorporated elements of Olympic weight training and CrossFit.
u BEWARE OF INJURIES: Ripon Christian’s biggest deterrent in its pursuit of a Sac-Joaquin Section championship is depth. The Knights can ill-afford an injury anywhere on the field. “Last year, everybody played both ways. That’s how it’s going to be this year. I’ve played that way since youth football,” senior Andrew Brown said. “… It’s always an issue because of injuries, but conditioning and being able to put out four quarters, that won’t be an issue.” u HOWER’S FALL: AllSouthern League wide receiver Spencer Hower was cleared to return to the field on Aug. 23. Hower broke both his arms in a skateboard fall and missed the entire summer season. Hower ranked second only to Brown with 32 catches, 549 receiving yards and six touchdowns. To develop timing and relationship with QB Billy Marr, Hower would run routes without catching the ball. u WHO’S THAT? Here are a few newcomers sure to play prominent roles for first-year head coach Randy Fasani this fall: Will Kamps, projected as a defensive end, linebacker and offensive lineman; and Tyler Driesen, a 6-foot-2, 270-pound center. Both started for the sophomore team a year ago and would have played varsity if not for CIF rules, according to Fasani.
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2013 Prep Football Preview
The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
SCHEDULE
W E S T O N
All games kickoff at 7:30 p.m., unless noted Sept. 6 vs. Franklin Sept. 13 @ Tokay Sept. 20 vs. Bear Creek Sept. 27 @ Lathrop* Oct. 4 vs. Oakdale* Oct. 11 @ Kimball* Oct. 18 @ Sonora* Oct. 25 vs. Manteca* Nov. 1 vs. East Union* Nov. 8 @ Sierra* * Valley Oak League game
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C O U G A R S
EXTRA POINTS u MICKY D’S RUN: In the spring, the world of California high school athletics was introduced McDonald to John McDonald’s 0-to-60 speed. The thensophomore captured two medals at the CIF State Track and Field Championships in the sport’s marquee events – the 100- and 200-meter sprints. This fall, McDonald’s shiftiness and speed will be on full display on the football, where he’s expected to play a key role in the offense. u QB BATTLE: Junior Marcus Moore has the inside track on the Cougars’ starting quarterback position after leading the junior varsity team to a historic 2012 season. The Cougars beat Oakdale and Sierra in backto-back weeks, including a 45-0 shutout of its intradistrict rival. Senior Khalil Browder has pushed Moore all summer. With Moore missing, Browder got valuable reps at the Modesto Junior College 7-on-7 passing tournament. u CAN-DO CANADAY: Junior wide receiver Chris Canaday showcased electric moves during the summer season. At the MJC passing tournament, Canady bolted through the Central Valley secondary for a long touchdown reception. It was all Canaday’s doing, too. He reeled in a slant near the 30-yard line, sidestepped a defender and then juked the safety completing the highlight reel score. u TRIPLE DUTY: Firstyear head coach Seth Davis is a man of campus. Davis works full-time as a campus monitor and also serves as the school’s varsity wrestling coach. He becomes the fourth head coach in Weston Ranch’s nine years as a varsity program, following John Morris, Steve Jackson and Mike Hale. Davis joined Hale’s staff last fall as the defensive coordinator.
NEW DUDE ON RANCH Davis in charge, brings Buffalo alum with him By J A M E S B UR NS
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The B u l l e t i n
ESTON RANCH – Seth Davis wants to build a legacy on a South Stockton campus accustomed to uneven results and change. Weston Ranch has traditionally been among the Valley Oak League’s most athletic teams since its debut as a varsity program in 2004, and it won a share of the league title in 2005. Yet, Davis describes a somewhat fractured program, where constant turnover on the coaching staff has stunted the program’s progress. “Steve Jackson was here for a couple of years. Coach (Mike) Hale was here for five years, but he had so many different coordinators and coaches at the lower levels. That’s so much inconsistency for the kids here,” said Davis, a campus monitor and reserve firefighter. “That’s one thing Weston Ranch has never had – a set staff. I think I can have these guys around for 10 years. I want to be here for 25 years.” “These guys” should sound familiar to Valley Oak League football fans. Davis, a former Manteca High standout and key cog in the Buffaloes’ Sac-Joaquin Section championship run in 2005, has tapped old friends to fill out his staff. Ten of Weston Ranch’s 14 coaches are former Manteca High football players, including five from the 2005 team that went 12-1, shared the VOL crown with Weston Ranch and Sonora, and then avenged its only loss with a 34-7 victory over the Wildcats in the section final. Those five are: Davis, a wide receiver and safety; assistant varsity head coach Dustin Allen, a wide receiver and defensive back; offensive coordinator Mike Kuhn-
JOHN-JOEL GRIFFITHS/The Bulletin
TOP PHOTO: Weston Ranch senior Kaleb Byrd bulls over a defender and fights his way to the ball as coaches and players look on during a preseason practice in Weston Ranch. BOTTOM PHOTO: Weston Ranch junior quarterback Marcus Moore takes off up the field with the ball as the Cougars get prepped for the preseason.
lenz, another wide receiver and defensive back; defensive coordinator Daniel Johnson, a hard-hitting linebacker; and junior varsity co-defensive coordinator Gus Sharmoug, a lineman. “Coach Reis did a phenomenal job of building that brotherhood,” Davis said. “He instilled that brotherhood ... and it’s something we’ve been able to instill in these boys. It’s more than football. It’s a life experience. It’s something that only football can bring out. This time, the high school life, it’s so much more than a game. We’ve been able to push that to our boys.
“Them seeing us still as close as we are today, I can tell it already impacts them and their lives. We’re so close. ... I come to work every day with my brothers.” Junior varsity offensive coordinator Brad Evans (quarterback and linebacker) was a member of the Buffaloes’ first-ever section championship in 2001, a team coached by Joe Miller. Others with Manteca High ties include: varsity wide receiver and defensive backs coach Roman Penerian (receiver, 2004); JV co-defensive coordinator John Williams (receiver, 2004); varsity running backs and linebackers coach Akeem Wade (running back, 2004); and JV lines coach Spencer Tilton (lines, 2004). The staff also includes 2004 East Union graduates Nate Nobles (varsity lines coach) and Jason Furtado (unspecified), as well as Matt O’Donnell (JV head coach) and Robert Strothers (JV wide receivers and defensive backs coach). Weston Ranch hosts Manteca on Oct. 25 in a game that could have playoff and league title implications. “It’s definitely a source of pride having former players coach,” said Reis, who also has disciples at Lathrop (Ricky Martinez) and Sierra (Ryan Teicheira) high schools. “I had a chance to coach with some of high school football coaches – Jack Miller, Greg Leland and Jack Thomson. I learned a lot of football and a lot about life from them.” The Cougars went 4-6 overall and 2-5 in league play in Hale’s final season. Weston Ranch replenishes its ranks with a heralded junior class, including one of the state’s top sprinters in John McDonald, the 2012-13 Bulletin Boys Track Athlete of the Year. However, the program’s greatest coup may be Davis, who believes he can recreate the success he experienced playing for Reis as a newly-minted head coach. “The game of football needs good coaches that care and the former players I have coaching fit that description,” Reis said. “They all hate to lose and understand that coach doesn’t like to lose, either.” To contact James Burns, e-mail jburns@ mantecabulletin.com.
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The Bulletin-Thursday, August 29, 2013
2013 Prep Football Preview
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