SCV High School Football Preview 2023

WILDCATS

VIKINGS

COWBOYS

INDIANS COYOTES

KNIGHTS

CARDINALS

CENTURIONS

On the Cover:

Special thanks to the athletes from each of the nine Santa Clarita Valley high school football teams who participated in this year’s cover photo shoots. They are:

• West Ranch: Luke DePerno, RB

• Golden Valley: Isaiah Orozco, LB/RB

• Valencia: Jake Pikor, DE

• Canyon: Jeremiah Taylor, WR/DB

• Hart: Tim Larkins QB

• Castaic: Cyrus Gradoville, DE

• Saugus: CJ Mound, WR/RB/DB

• Trinity: John Carlson, LB/TE

• SCCS: Jude Patton, LB/OL

Cover photos by Dan Watson/ The Signal

WILDCATS

SINCE 1919

VICTORY BELL

Signal

The Signal Victory Bell symbolizes football supremacy in the Santa Clarita Valley. The Foothill League team with the most victories against other Foothill opponents wins possession of the bell for a year.

If there is a two-way tie for best record, the bell will go to the winner of the head-to-head matchup. If there is a three-way tie, the Foothill League's tie-breaking formula for playoff seedings will be used.

1969 – Hart

1970 – Canyon

1971 – Hart

1972 – Hart

1973 – Canyon

1974 – Hart

1975 – Hart

1976 – Canyon

1977 – Hart

1980 – Saugus

1981 – Saugus

1982 – Hart

1983 – Canyon

1984 – Canyon

1985 – Canyon

1986 – Canyon

1987 – Hart

1988 – Hart

1991 – Canyon

1992 – Hart

1993 – Hart

1994 – Hart

1995 – Hart

1996 – Hart

1997 – Hart

1998 – Hart

1999 – Hart

2002 – Hart

2003 – Hart

2004 – Valencia

2005 – Canyon

2006 – Canyon

2007 – Hart

2008 – Saugus

2009 – Valencia

2010 – Valencia

2013 – Valencia

2014 – Valencia

2015 – Valencia

2016 – Valencia

2017 – Valencia

2018 – Valencia

2019 – Valencia

2020 – Saugus

WEST RANCH

The Basics

2022 Results

2023 Schedule

HEAD COACH: Chris Varner

8th season. 48-25 career record

Base offense: Spread

Base defense: 4-2

Top returner on offense: Luke DePerno (RB), Jack Samuelson (WR), Chad Langston (OL/DL)

Top returner on defense: Aidan Lombardo (LB), Obi Ogbuagu (DB), Mike Miller (DE)

Key losses: Ryan Staub (QB), Maverick Diaz (WR), Chaz Hilst (WR), Brady Van Bennekum (LB), Connor Reyes (LB), Griffin Nibarger, (DE) Sean Scott (OL)

WEST RANCH HEAD COACH CHRIS VARNER. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Wildcats looking to retool from within

By Tyler Wainfeld Signal Sports Writer

It’s a good time to be a part of the West Ranch High School football program.

The Wildcats have been on an upward trajectory ever since head coach Chris Varner took over the team prior to the 2016 season, culminating in an undefeated regular season and a first Foothill League title in 2022.

Many of those players are now gone, including the reigning Foothill League Player of the Year, Ryan Staub, who is now playing his trade as one of the quarterbacks at the University of Colorado. However, that suits Varner, who enjoys the reality of having to move on from a group of players as a high school coach.

“I’m gonna miss the heck out of those kids,” Varner said. “They’re talented. We almost shared the same mind in terms of what we wanted to do … I look at this as an opportunity to start over with some hungry, fresh kids and see what they can do.”

Front and center for the Wild-

The Numbers

44.8

12.17

cats in 2023 will be junior running back Luke DePerno. A second-team all-league selection as a sophomore with 629 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground — both top marks for the squad — DePerno, who said his goal this year is 1,500 rushing yards, is ready to fill in as a leader for a team that graduated north of 30 players.

“I’m expecting that we’re gonna do pretty good,” DePerno said. “I think Valencia will be our hardest matchup this season. I think a lot of people think we’re going to be a lot worse this year, but I think we’re gonna be a lot better than people think.”

DePerno is one of the few starters from last year’s team who returns. Everywhere else, Varner will be

3,117

looking for homegrown talent to step up.

Senior Zach Wyre is poised to be the new man under center, though the Wildcats did pick up a transfer from Calabasas in junior Liam McDaniel who has been competing with Wyre throughout the summer. Varner expects Wyre to take over for Staub, who Wyre got to learn from as the backup last year.

“Ryan was a great mentor for me. I’m still really close with him,” Wyre said. “He’s always been the nice guy and tried to help me, and every time I got in, he was always rooting me on. It’s just taught me a lot, showed me what it’s like to be a leader and what it’s going to require to have that good of a season.”

See WEST RANCH, page 30

Points per game in 2022.

Points surrendered per game in 2022.

660 Returning rushing yards.

Graduating receiving yards.

SAUGUS

The

2022 Results

2023 Schedule

HEAD COACH: Jason Bornn

21st season as head coach. 121-99 record

Base offense: Spread

Base defense: Multiple schemes

Top returner on offense: Wyatt Hawk (OL), Parker Koontz (OL), RJ Temple (TE), CJ Mound (WR/RB).

Top returner on defense: Anthony Torres (LB), Shane Morton (DB), Kayden Ky-Yeith (LB).

Key losses: Jake Viger (RB/LB), TJ Cataldi (QB), AJ Goodman (WR), Jadon Lemmons (CB), Deohn Turner (RB/LB).

SAUGUS HIGH SCHOOL. HEAD COACH JASON BORNN. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON/THE SIGNAL

By Tyler Wainfeld Signal Sports Writer

Saugus seeks to continue winning ways The Numbers

The Saugus Centurions just wrapped up one of the program’s most impressive threeyear runs. Back-to-back Foothill League titles, followed by a second-place finish in 2022, with only a loss to West Ranch getting in the way of a Saugus dynasty and three years without a league loss.

Saugus head coach Jason Bornn is entering his 21st year at the helm, and after so many years of having to retool and replace, he’s simply going about his business getting a new squad of Centurions ready for 2023.

“Every year offers a new opportunity and challenge for the players that we have and for them to work together and to see what we can do

developing individually as well as collectively,” Bornn said.

Gone is Jake Viger, the 2021 Foothill League Player of the Year, a standout at running back, linebacker and kicker. AJ Goodman and Khai Ky-Yeith leave holes at wide receiver, Deohn Turner and Vinny Gallagher the same at running back — as well as their contributions on the defensive side of the ball — while a new quarterback will have

to take the reigns from TJ Cataldi. Bornn is still trying players out at multiple positions, trying to see who will stick and who can be the new leaders. Senior Trent Johnson, one of two quarterbacks Bornn is looking at, has already earned the trust of some of his receivers and linemen after spending last year as Cataldi’s understudy. Senior Wyatt Hawk, expected to be a force on both sides of See SAUGUS, page 32

The Basics GOLDEN VALLEY

HEAD COACH: Dan Kelley

10th season. 50-45-1 overall record.

Base offense: Spread

Base defense: Hybrid

Top returner on offense: Julian Rios (RB).

Top returner on defense: Isaiah Orozco (LB).

Key losses: Ajani Smith (WR/DB), Chris Melkonian (QB), Malachi Beacham (LB), Dallas Landry (DB), Jackson Torres (LB), Nicholas Curry (DE).

2022 Results

2023 Schedule

GOLDEN VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL HEAD COACH DAN KELLEY. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Golden Valley reloading after CIF run

By Justin Vigil-Zuniga Signal Sports Writer

Golden Valley is one of a few local teams that graduated a large, decorated senior class. However, the Grizzlies are the only team that reached a CIF championship and will retain a bulk of their core heading into 2023.

Head coach Dan Kelley enters year 10 with the Grizzly program with 50 wins already on his resume. The coach has only finished under .500 three times at Golden Valley, and even with a loaded senior class gone, the expectations are still high.

“Having that season we had last year gives the kids something to play for,” Kelley said. “The best thing for your program is to win

The Numbers

1,952

ball games. These guys, they feel the pressure, they’re trying to match that or do better. So we’ll see how it goes. We’re not gonna sit here talking about it. We’re gonna go out and do it.”

Returning is running back tandem Julian Rios and Isaiah Orozco. The two are senior Swiss army knives as we’ll also see Rios in the

while adding five touchdowns last season while Orozco led the running backs with 5.3 yards per carry. On offense, the two, along with running back Ricky Gonzalez, will look to overshadow those marks with the big Grizzly front clearing the way. Cantrell Smith, Jacob Martinez and Adedamola Olabode are just a few of Kelley’s strong offensive linemen.

“We’re looking to run the ball

The Basics HART

2022 Results

HEAD COACH: Rick Herrington

4th season. Overall record 9-16-1

Base offense: Spread

Base defense: Hybrid

Top returners on offense: Tim Larkins (QB), Shawn Irwin (WR).

Top returners on defense: Chris Clauss (LB), Vincent Tiscareno (DT).

Key losses: Donovan Dunn (RB), Alberto Favela (LB), Charlie Thurman (DL).

2023 Schedule

HART HIGH SCHOOL HEAD COACH RICK HERRINGTON PHOTOS BY HABEBA MOSTAFA / THE SIGNAL

Hart’s big guns are back in business

By Justin Vigil-Zuniga Signal Sports Writer

Hart has a lot to be excited about in 2023. The league’s only returning starting quarterback, top wide receiver, core lineman and several key defensive players will suit up for the Indians.

Head coach Rick Herrington was due to miss some time after suffering a blocked artery, which led to heart transplant surgery. However, he made amazing progress and couldn’t be held away from the field.

Now it’s back to business for Hart with all eyes on the Foothill League title, a feat the school hasn’t captured in 15 years.

Senior quarterback Tim Larkins returns for his fourth year of varsity. Larkins has spent nearly triple that time playing alongside wide receiver Shawn Irwin. The two are ready to put up more big numbers in 2023.

“It’s going to be just like last year, but even better,” Larkins said. “But probably way more yards and more touchdowns.”

The two have played together since they were both 7 years old,

The Numbers 4

suiting up for the Santa Clarita Wildcats. “Our chemistry is improving every year,” Irwin said. “We’ve always been together ever since we were SC Wildcats together.”

Herrington is excited for their senior seasons but needs to see his offensive line improve after Larkins spent a good chunk of last year scrambling to keep plays alive.

“If our linemen can block the rush, and we’re hoping they will, he’s going to have some good numbers,” Herrington said. “It’s just so hard to cover Shawn. Everyone during the summer was putting their best guy on him and he was still making catches.”

Hart will have a plethora of talented players filling out the offense.

Linebacker Chris Clauss will also take reps at running back, where he has flashed his speed and athleticism. Junior Nate Mata will also be a two-way player at running back along with Santa Clarita Christian transfer Timothy Tadler.

Playing time is up for grabs at the other receiving spots but Herrington has loved what he’s seen from that group. The 2023 receiving corps includes: Scott Morris, Zack Pellow, Kevin Reyes, Parker Maxwell and Oliver Welch.

The offensive line will feature Nathan Belith, Cory De La Torre, Colin Vandeventer, Brett Hourigan and center Kameron Werner. Vandeventer is the team’s only sophomore

Total career offensive yards by both Tim Larkins and Shawn Irwin.

VALENCIA

The Basics

2022 Results

HEAD COACH: Larry Muir

17th season. 147-66-1 overall record

Base offense: Spread

Base defense: 3-4

Top returners on offense: Jayboe Wilson (WR), Deandre Kermah (WR).

Top returners on defense: Reid Farrell (LB), Jake Pikor (DL), Tony Testa (LB).

Key losses: Brandon Boateng (WR), Daniel Hernandez (RB), Ralph Testa (WR/DB).

2023 Schedule

VALENCIA HIGH SCHOOL HEAD COACH LARRY MUIR. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Vikings return, Muir pursues milestone

By Justin Vigil-Zuniga Signal Sports Writer

The Vikings are gearing up for the 2023 season with several headlines already emerging. A decorated senior class will take the field alongside some exciting juniors and sophomores, there’s strong depth at nearly every position and the winningest active coach in the Foothill League is inching closer to his 150th career win.

Head coach Larry Muir enters year 17 at the helm, just three wins away from his 150th career win. Nothing is given in football, but Muir likes his chances of shooting well above the 150 mark.

Valencia returns a talented defense that allowed under 19 points a game during the regular season, racked up 15 takeaways and will likely send several players into the Division 1 college football world. The Vikes are hoping for a few accomplishments on the field before beginning their NCAA journeys.

“Undefeated and the best part is everyone on this team won’t accept anything less than that,” said line-

The Numbers

7

1,338

Graduated receiving yards.

backer Reid Farrell. “We’ve talked about it like crazy. We’re together every single day and we’re such a tight group on and on the field. It’s undefeated or nothing and league or nothing. There are no ifs, ands or buts about it. It’s a must-win mentality so there’s no room for error.”

Farrell, a CIF Defensive Player of the Year, returns to Valencia for his senior year. The middle linebacker will anchor the Vikings’ defense for the third straight season with the big undefeated mission on his mind.

Defensive end Jake Pikor also enters his senior year and will soon conclude his historic Viking career. Pikor posted back-to-back six-sack seasons in 2021 and 2022, while also adding a ton of tackles for loss.

“We’re rallying to the ball every

10-0

JV team mostly coming up to varsity.

4

Years since Valencia’s last league title, the longest stretch without a championship in Muir’s tenure.

play,” Pikor said. “It’s not just one player heading to the ball, every player is aiming at the ball. If one guy misses, another guy behind him is going to make the tackle. I’m really excited about this year.”

Muir’s defense is flooded with returners highlighted by the defensive line fronting the 3-4 formation.

Pikor, Anthony Castillo and Judah Plett will be key linemen while linebackers Farrell, Tony Testa, Luke Cruz and Sam Geizer will be poised for big years. In the secondary, Jordan Cardenas and Jayboe Wilson return for their senior seasons.

“We have Jayboe Wilson, who I just think is the best athlete on any field he walks on,” Farrell said.

On the other side of the ball,

See VALENCIA, page 36

Returners with 20+ tackles last season.

The Basics CANYON

2022 Results

3-7 overall, 1-5 Foothill League Canyon 35 Canoga Park 6 Hueneme 7 Canyon 28 Canyon 6 Harv-Westlake 14

Royal 23 Canyon 3 Canyon 0 West Ranch* 45 Castaic 3 Canyon* 17

Canyon 12 Golden Valley* 14

Hart 31 Canyon* 7 Saugus 45 Canyon* 7 Canyon 14 Valencia* 40 * Foothill League games

2023 Schedule

HEAD COACH: Ken Holsenbeck

2nd season. Overall record 3-7

Base offense: Wing T

Base defense: Hybrid

Top returners on offense: Jeremiah Taylor (WR), Ganisten Turner (RB), Evan Watts (RB).

Top returners on defense: Diego Olujich (DE), Elijah Herreres (DE), Keston Banos (DB).

Key Losses: Max Sanchez (LB), Navin Srinivasan (WR).

Aug. 18 Ridgeview

Aug. 25 at Hueneme

Sept. 8 at Royal

Oct. 13 at Hart*

HEAD COACH KEN HOLSENBECK. PHOTOS BY HABEBA MOSTAFA / THE SIGNAL

By Justin Vigil-Zuniga Signal Sports Writer

Canyon was in no way satisfied with 2022 but the season may have been a strong stepping stone for the future. The Cowboys started 2-0 and snapped a league loss streak that dated back to 2017, before finishing 3-7.

The 2023 edition of the Cowboys is full of returners, including second-year head coach Ken Holsenbeck. He knows the competition will be fierce in the Foothill League and has kept the same goal as last season. “A CIF championship, always,” Holsenbeck said. “That is the one and only goal that we will have every year.”

Holsenbeck returned the bulk of his defense and is expecting sev-

eral players to make an impact on that side of the ball. Senior Diego Olujich returns for his third year of varsity and has played nearly everywhere for Canyon.

“I think as a team we’ve really progressed over the past two years,” Olujich said. “I’ll say we’ve gotten a lot stronger, faster and bigger. I think this year we can really do something.”

Olujich is a natural force in the pass rush and led the team in sacks

as a sophomore. As a junior, Olujich remained on the defensive line but also took the helm of the offense at quarterback. This year, the senior moves to tight end and his primary position, outside linebacker, where Holsenbeck believes he will shine alongside returners Elijah Herreres and Dane Lawler.

“Defensively, we have all of our linebackers coming back, which is great,” Holsenbeck said. “We have

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The Basics CASTAIC

2022 Results

2023 Schedule

HEAD COACH: Sirr Guy Shakir

1st season.

Base offense: Spread

Base defense: Hybrid

Top returners on offense: Manny Ortiz (RB), Jacob

Pimentel (RB), Gage Gibson (WR).

Top returner on defense: Cyrus Gradoville (DE).

Key losses: Davis Cruz (WR)

CASTAIC HEAD COACH SIRR GUY SHAKIR. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

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Years since Sirr Guy Shakir coached a high school team.

14

Castaic coaches in 2023, entire program had five last season.

9.33 Points per league game in 2022.

3

Returning receivers with over 200 yards.

By Justin Vigil-Zuniga Signal Sports Writer

Castaic Coyotes football is gearing up for year two of varsity and Foothill League play. The year of seconds will be the inaugural for first-year head coach Sirr Guy Shakir.

Shakir has been away from high school football for 20 years but has helped develop the belief, culture and abilities of the Coyote football program. The coach has a plethora of returners who went through 2022’s growing pains and are preparing to compete in 2023.

Senior wide receiver Gage Gibson led the 2022 offense with 335 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns and a 17.7-yards-per-catch average. “Our program’s really grown this year,” Gibson said. “We came into this season with a whole new coaching staff and I’ve really felt the strength in our community grow. I really feel that our family is growing with new players and the new coaching staff has allowed for new ways for us to train, grow and refine our talent. It’s really been a journey and not an easy one. It’s been a lot of hard work.”

For Shakir, game results could be mixed but the coach wants to see his players fight for 60 minutes, regardless of the score. “We want to battle,” Shakir said. “Everybody can look at the scoreboard and tell what the score is. We’re striving for if someone were to watch us play, they won’t know what the score is because there’s no difference in how. That’s the standard, to just battle regardless and show your grit. At that point, it’s

TRINITY

The Basics

2022 Results

HEAD COACH: Mike Parrinello

3rd season. Record 9-10

Base offense: Spread

Base defense: Hybrid

Top Returners on Offense: Noah Visconti (QB), Cade Frazier (OL).

Key returner on defense: John Carlson (LB).

Key Losses: Rocco Izzo (WR), Dominic Smith (QB), Nick Parinello (RB), Anderson Howell (LB), Jack Spector (LB).

2023 Schedule

TRINITY CLASSICAL ACADEMY HEAD COACH MIKE PARRINELLO. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

New-look Knights plan to march in sync

By Justin Vigil-Zuniga Signal Sports Writer

The Trinity Knights will look quite a bit different in 2023 but head coach Mike Parrinello isn’t expecting any steps in the wrong direction.

Parrinello had 15 seniors graduate after last season, an abnormality for Trinity. Most of the seniors were multi-year starters and key factors for the Knights. The team lost its top four rushers, top seven receivers and 11 of its top 12 tacklers.

“We had a big turnover and the numbers are down a little bit for us from last year,” Parrinello said, “but truthfully we are at a more traditional number for us where the shoes fit a little bit differently. We’re just going to have some growing pains because we’ve got a real young and inexperienced bunch.”

Trinity returns a handful of important players in 2023, so a rebuild isn’t on the team’s mind. Junior quarterback Noah Visconti and center Cade Frazier both return for the Knights. Each has taken on leadership roles to guide the young squad.

“The freshmen are coming along fast and we have some really good, young athletes,” Visconti said. “And they’re bigger than most freshmen. We have four or five freshmen right now that are bigger and stronger than most and it’ll be nice to develop them. I’m really excited to help coach, teach and bring them along in the game to help our team win.”

Visconti will most likely take on full-time duties at quarterback, a spot where he earned plenty of reps last season playing under senior Dominic Smith. Visconti threw for 928 yards, 8 touchdowns and 10 interceptions last season but will enter

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1,732

2023 with a near-brand new receiving group.

“Noah getting a lot of opportunities to play last year is going to be really good for him,” Parrinello said. “He was a leader last year, he played very well. It was a lot for a sophomore to be starting as a quarterback on a varsity level. I’ve already seen some really good things from him. He’s got that mentality, which is going to be great and now I think this year, he’ll have some more confidence. He’s gotten a little bigger, he’s got a little stronger, his arm is stronger and he put on some weight. So he’s done everything right and with the knowledge he has, I see some good things for him.”

Visconti will have longtime teammate, in multiple sports, John Carlson as one of his top targets. Carlson, a junior, will see more action at tight end this season, while also taking over some linebacker duties.

“It’s definitely been fun,” Carlson said. “I’ve been with (Visconti) since eighth grade on the baseball field, in the classroom and on the football field. He’s a great guy to have around and a good teammate. So, it’s going to be fun to continue this route with him.”

Visconti and Carlson shined for Trinity baseball last season, as each picked up Heritage League Player of the Year awards but can now focus on the gridiron.

Carlson won’t be coming off the

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field much as the tight end will also lead the linebacker corps.

“This year John’s going to be touching the football and he’s going to be touching the football a lot,” Parrinello said. “We knew he was capable of it, but we didn’t really have the same need that we have this year. So I know he’s excited, he’s ready for it and he’s capable of it. I see a huge, huge season for him this year as he takes on that new role.”

Senior Tanner Ozanich will line up alongside Frazier on the line, in his first year playing football. Parrinello and Frazier have been impressed with how quickly Ozanich has adjusted to the sport.

Senior Owen Kush and sophomore Hudson Sweitzer will take over running duties for the Knights. The team graduated 944 rushing yards last season and will have some big shoes to fill after Nick Parrinello and Noah Estanol’s graduation.

On defense, Frazier will again play on the line’s interior while Carlson leads the linebackers. He will likely play sets with his brother, freshman Andrew Carlson, who is quickly catching up to the varsity speed.

Andrew will be one of several freshmen already competing for starting spots on the Knights squad. Another freshman potentially starting will be two-way player Nick Delgado, who will have duties at receiver and strong safety.

See TRINITY, page 39

Returning rushing yards.

Graduated receiving yards.

Wins in the Mesquite League.

Passing yards in 2022 by Noah Visconti, mostly off the bench.

The Basics SCCS

2022 Results

2023 Schedule

HEAD COACH: AUSTIN FRY

Season, 7-14 career record

Base offense: West Coast

Base defense: 3-2

Top returners on offense: Cayden Rappleye (QB), Eli Duhm (WR), Jude Patton (C), Wyatt Shields (WR).

Top returners on defense: Jonathan Boelter (DE), Wyatt Shields (DB), Cayden Rappleye (LB).

Key losses: Landon Hermanson, Carter Aispuro, Timmy Tadler.

By Tyler Wainfeld Signal Sports Writer

“Why not us?”

It’s a question that Santa Clarita Christian School head coach Austin Fry posed after watching the growth that his team has made heading into the Cardinals’ third season in eightman football.

The Cardinals’ first season ended with the team going 0-10, but things began to click last season as they went 7-4 overall and 2-2 in Liberty League action. That included the program’s first playoff victory since its rebirth, its first two shutouts in five years — in back-to-back games, no less — and two all-CIF Southern Section first-team selections.

“Last year, we were definitely just trying to make it to playoffs, for sure,” Cardinals junior Cayden Rap-

The Numbers 2

pleye said. “But now, this year, we’re not a just-try-to-make-it to-playoffs team. We’re a championship-contending team. We’re trying to go win the championship.”

Fry’s quarterback since the program’s rebirth two years ago, Rappleye showed last year as a sophomore that he can be a menace to opposing defenses, completing 56% of his passes for 1,633 yards with 29 touchdowns against 14 interceptions. He added 609 yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground.

Projected starters returning 1,104

Returning receiving yards.

While those numbers were good enough for Rappleye to be a firstteam all-Southern Section selection, both the quarterback and Fry are aware that for the Cardinals to take the next step and compete for a CIF title, he needs to be more consistent and cut down on the mistakes.

“His inconsistencies are the only thing that holds him back,” Fry said. “I think this year, it’s just how do we how do we start and maintain that consistency?”

Average points scored in wins in 2022.

WEST RANCH

Continued from 9

Whoever ends up tossing the pigskin, it will be to a new group of receivers. Chaz Hilst, who was an all-CIF Southern Section selection in Division 3 along with Staub, has moved on, as have Maverick Diaz, Isaac Ellis and Will Seidel.

The new group looks to be headed by seniors Obi Ogbuagu and Jack Samuelson, with senior Zehren Hilton, a transfer from Antelope Valley, also a candidate to be the new star wideout at West Ranch. Ogbuagu isn’t sure who will end up as the main man, but if it’s him, he’s ready. If not, he has trust in his teammates to pick up the slack.

“If coach puts me out there, I’ll take that spot,” Ogbuagu said. “But, we have receivers that can catch, that can run, that can fill those spots.”

Samuelson, who got to play with Wyre at times last year when the Wildcats had already blown games open, is putting it on himself to be the star receiver.

“At least 1,000 receiving yards. I want to go over 1,500 all-purpose yards,” Samuelson said of his goals. “Zach’s accelerating super fast, and I’m just super proud of him, excited to see what he does as the starting quarterback.”

Defense is where the Wildcats will be looking for more people to step into big shoes. Ogbuagbu is an option at defensive back, while Varner will be looking for a surprise sophomore to possibly lead the line. He believes that Max Piccolino could be a future defensive stalwart, and that future could be now.

“I just got to live up to the expectations,” Piccolino said. “I’m excited to see what I can do, how I can perform.”

Helping out on the line will be senior Aidan Lombardo, with Varner still looking at the rest of the team to fill in elsewhere. He believes in his team, though, and he believes in the system that he has implemented at

West Ranch to make sure players are ready when called upon — players who know what is expected both on and off the field.

“A lot of teams live and die by who they pick up in the offseason,” Varner said. “I don’t want hired guns; I want West Ranch kids that have bought into what we do. They see the expectation, they understand the academic excellence that we have at the school.”

Senior Chad Langston will be operating on the line on both sides of the ball and, like Varner, understands that people will need to show that they belong, but also that many of the potential starters have been through the system and should know what is expected.

“We know what goes on, what we’re supposed to do, what plays we’re running and how to do it,” Langston said. “So really, there wasn’t much teaching involved. It was a thing we came up kind of knowing what we had to do to win.”

Easier said than done, of course. Even with last year’s special group, Varner said that not everything went as smoothly as it looked from the outside. He’s relishing the opportunity to take a group of relative unknowns and turn them into league champions.

“I always look forward. That’s what I do,” Varner said. “That’s how I approach this, and I got some good kids that are working their butts off, and they never hear me say things like, ‘Well, we’ll see. We lost this ...’ No. This is what we have. This is our team, and they’re working hard and I’m very encouraged by their effort and their accountability to one another. It should be an exciting season. Wins and losses, that takes care of itself.”

West Ranch is scheduled to open up its season on Friday, Aug. 18 on the road at St. Francis. The Wildcats’ home opener is set for Friday, Aug. 25 against Pasadena. 

2023 Roster

Nathan Mugavero

Andrew Hamilton

Jr. 4 Jack Samuelson

Cohen Hernandez Sr. 6 Zehren Hilton

Liam McDaniel

Zach Wyre

Obi Ogbuagu

Jr.

Sr.

Dylan McDonald Sr.

Kyler Garrity Jr. 12 Jett Hilst WR Sr. 13 Gabe Cotti Jr. 14 Sands Alvarez Jr.

Maddux Lomeli Jr. 17 Austin Velicsanyi

A GUIDE TO FOOD WASTE RECYCLING

It is always best to prevent food waste in the first place by planning out your meals and only buying what you need but sometimes food needs to be disposed of because it spoils, includes inedible peels and skins or you just can’t finish what’s on your plate. In this case, food waste recycling is the best option to keep food out of landfills. Follow the guidelines below to recycle your food waste properly!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

All food waste must be bagged separately and placed in your green organics cart alongside any loose yard trimmings and other green waste. Sometimes organic materials require different processing methods; such as food waste vs. yard waste, depending on the facility that processes them. At this time, residents of Santa Clarita must separate food waste, into any type of plastic bag that can tie shut before placing it into their organics cart.

DON

DO bag these items, and place them in your green organics cart:

• Fruits and vegetables, including rinds and peels

• Cheese and dairy

• Breads

• Bones

• Eggshells

• Cooked meat and seafood

• Coffee grounds

• Plate scrapings, leftovers and expired foods

• Food soiled paper including napkins, paper egg cartons, non-coated bags, plates or cups and coffee and tea filters

• Pet food

DO NOT include these items as organic materials:

• Pet waste, including cat litter

• Raw meat or seafood

• Liquids

• Recyclable items like hard plastic, cans or plastic bottles

• Hazardous waste

IDEA!

A lot of food and household items like bread, produce and newspapers are packaged in plastic bags. Consider reusing bags that already exist from household products to bag food waste!

ORGANICS

For more information and to watch our Trash Talks series, please scan the QR code below or visit GreenSantaClarita.com

SAUGUS

the line, appreciates Johnson’s ability to communicate.

“Just him being able to talk to us, communicate with us, know what we’re doing at the same time that he knows what he’s doing,” Hawk said. “It’s just awesome to have that communication and that teamwork with our quarterback.”

Hawk, fellow senior Parker Koontz and junior Jake Franano are expected to be key pieces on the line for Bornn, who has high hopes for that group. “I think our line on both sides of the ball is going to be pretty solid,” Bornn said. “You can have all the skill players you want, but if your offensive line can’t protect the quarterback and your defensive line can’t stop the run, you’re not going to be very successful.”

Speaking of skill players, Bornn has no shortage of options. The question is who will cement themselves and in which positions.

Seniors Kayden Ky-Yeith, Lucas Francke and CJ Mound have been splitting time at receiver and running back, while senior Shane Morton and sophomore Degan Grant are options at receiver. Senior RJ Temple is expected to be the guy at tight end to go along with his work at linebacker.

“I think we’re gonna shock people,” Temple said. “We got guys that could perform and we’re gonna go out there and surprise people.”

Johnson likes what he’s seen at practice and is excited to see how everything shakes out once the season starts. He knows he has big shoes to fill but looks forward to the challenge. “We’ve been working a lot. Summer camp was really fun. We started off pretty strong, finished strong, too,” he said. “The main part was just getting new guys

into the system, helping them out, focus up and just learn our stuff, just know our culture. And it was really successful. I’m looking forward to it. I think we got a really good chance this year. League is up for grabs, I’d say, and now we’re just keep grinding every day.”

The league could be in reach. West Ranch, last year’s league winner, has lost nearly every starter, and it remains to be seen how much better Valencia and Hart have gotten. Golden Valley is retooling after a banner year, while Castaic and Canyon look to take their next steps.

“It just takes hard work, and nothing’s impossible,” Mound said. “You know, a lot of people believe that Valencia is the best team. I mean, I know we can beat them. We just have to work really hard and just prove that we can beat them, because I know we can.”

While winning the league for the third time in four years would be quite a feat, many Centurions also look at the playoffs, where Saugus has been knocked out in the first round each of the past two years.

“Last year was pretty tough and the year before was pretty tough, but I think we could have a pretty good shot at it this year,” Hawk said. “As long as we just keep going and keep trying. You got to put 100% effort in everything you do.”

Bornn isn’t quite sure yet what his spread offense will look like. “We’re trying to be as balanced as humanly possible,” Bornn said. “Ideally, we’d love to be 50-50. It’s a week-to-week thing. If our run game is clicking, then we’re going to run the ball more. If our pass game is clicking, we’re going to pass the ball more. And if they’re both clicking, then we’ll be as balanced as we can get.”

However things shake out, Bornn will be happy to see improvement, physically and mentally.

“Every year the goal is to devel-

2023 Roster

2 CJ Mound WR/CB

3 Ty Hall RB So.

4 Deandre Garland WR/CB Sr.

5 Shane Morton WR/CB Sr.

6 Degan Grant WR/DB So.

7 RJ Temple TE/LB Sr.

8 Kayden Ky-Yeith RB/LB Sr.

9 Jake Nuttall QB So.

10 Kyson Marome LB/TE Jr.

11 Andrew Cerritos RB/DB Jr.

12 Gage Sheklow WR/DB Jr.

13 Jake Abalos WR/DB Jr.

14 Hayden Wilson DB Jr.

15 Anthony Torres RB/LB Sr.

16 Abe Rivera QB/DB Jr.

17 Nolan Campeau WR So.

18 Trent Johnson QB Sr.

19 Gavin St. Peter WR/DB Sr.

20 Jordan Lima-Kuderer RB/LB Sr.

21 Jaden Montiel RB Jr.

22 Johnathon Sabatucci WR/DB Jr.

23 Andrew Alfaro WR/DB Sr.

24 Christian Lozano DB/WR Jr.

25 Lucas Francke RB Sr.

26 Timothy

op these players into outstanding human beings beyond high school,” he said. “If we can win some games along the way, that’s awesome, too.”

Saugus was set to begin its 2023 season against Rio Mesa on Thursday at College of the Canyons. 

HART

Continued from 15 while De La Torre is the only brandnew player to the sport but is coming along nicely working alongside big linemen like the 6-foot 7-inch Hourigan.

On defense, Clauss will move to middle linebacker as he has proved to Herrington time and time again that he gets to the rock.

“Chris will be moving to middle linebacker now from outside linebacker,” Herrington said. “He goes in and he gets to the ball. He’s just one of those guys that knows how to get to the ball.”

Clauss will anchor the defense alongside linebackers Ian Edwards, Rex Renfro and Zach Rogozik.

Up front, senior Vincent Tiscareno leads the defensive line from the nose tackle spot. The senior is a constant threat to break into backfields and will spearhead the charge with the two-way Mata, Vandeventer and Welch.

The group has impressed Herrington with a breakout offseason.

“During the summer, the defensive line was unbelievable,” Herrington said. “They were stopping all the runs, putting a good pass rush on without blitzing. They’re able to put a pass rush on, which is a luxury. If you can get the four guys to rush the passer and put pressure on the quarterback without having to send anyone else, it makes things much easier. They were able to do that some during the summer so we’re looking forward to seeing them in the season.”

Herrington is excited for his secondary, another group that has the potential for depth. Kolton Debritz returns to Hart after a brief move out of state. Irwin believes Debritz will be a key player in the secondary who could surprise teams.

“Kolton Debritz, he just trans-

2023 Roster

NAME

2023 Roster

POS. YEAR

ferred back from Utah,” Irwin said. “He was here last year for a bit. He’s a really great athlete and he’ll do really well out there.”

1 Donnavan Anson TE/LB Jr.

2 Jamison Torres WR/DB Jr.

3 Sean Gomez WR/DB Sr.

4 Ricky Gonzalez RB/DB Jr.

5 Brandon Contreras QB Jr.

6 Anthony Seragusa WR/DB Jr.

7 Braydon Hudson WR/DB

Maxwell will be back at strong safety and likely be one of the biggest defensive backs in the league, at 6 feet, 4 inches tall. Noah Keller, Tristan Perez and Morris will also see playing time as defensive backs.

Irwin shined as a two-way player and led the team in interceptions last year. However, the depth in the secondary may lead Herrington to the luxury of conserving his star receiver’s energy solely for offense.

Larkins has seen major improvement in the defense.

“(The defense) has improved a lot, especially since the new guys that have come in,” Larkins said. “But over summer, there’s been such a big change with a lot more knowledge in the guys now. They’re going to be good.”

On special teams, Maxwell will handle kickoff duties, Welch will punt and senior kicker Bennett Murphy will return to the team. Murphy displayed consistency, making 26 PATs and her one field goal try last season for Hart.

The Indians know it’ll take more than just big returners to retake the throne and will have some monkeys to get off their backs in 2023.

“We want to win the league,” Herrington said. “I think we got the people to do it, but you still have to perform. Valencia is going to be good again and Golden Valley’s had our number the last couple of years.”

Valencia has been a tough task for every team it’s faced over the last decade but Hart has had the Vikings’ number over the past two seasons. In turn, it’s been five years since the Indians last bested Golden Valley. Hart is also looking for its first win over Saugus in four years.

their coaching staff. Even after last year’s 1-6 start, the Indians found a way to clamp down and clinch a postseason berth.

Herrington will oversee the program while brother, CIF Hall of Famer Mike Herrington, returns to run the offense. Tony Uebelhardt will be the Indians’ defensive coordinator after departing from the Castaic program.

Larkins feels the team is ready.

AUGUST

18, 2023

The Indians have still been playoff regulars over the years thanks to

“I think we’re definitely ahead of schedule,” he said. “We did well in our seven-on-seven tournament. We want it this year. I think we’re going to be great at passing and running the ball.”

GOLDEN VALLEY

Continued from 13

more this year,” Rios said. “Last year, we had a little bit of injuries but this year we’re looking pretty healthy.”

Martinez, a senior, has been with the Golden Valley core for all three years and has seen his team’s physicality improve along with their chemistry. “Our strength and speed stand out,” Martinez said. “We also all have chemistry with each other. The past two and a half, three years we’ve all worked with each other.”

Juniors John Mia and Brandon Contreras are competing to be the starting quarterback. Contreras won the starting spot on junior varsity last season before a season-ending injury. Mia replaced his teammate and came up to varsity for the Grizzlies’ playoff run.

Keep an eye on Jamison Torres and Kam’ron Pierre in the receiving group. Torres has adjusted to varsity speed smoothly, becoming the third Torres brother to play for Kelley, while Pierre has shown flashy speed all summer.

“Jamison Torres stepped in and he’s a varsity football player,” Kelley said. “He did the seven on sevens. He’s just a competitor and is 100% a playmaker. That would probably be the one guy that’s coming in from the lower level that stands out.”

On defense, Kelley has options up front. Golden Valley is about 16 players deep on the defensive line, with a big group of players the coaches all trust to get in the game and cause havoc.

Donnavan Anson and Jackson Anderson will suit up alongside Orozco as linebackers. The latter two finished second and fourth, respectively, in tackles last season as the Grizzlies held opponents under 15 points five times.

“Last year’s defense was something else. It was different,” Orozco said. “We’re solid all around. I believe that this year’s defense is going to be pretty physical. Our backers are pretty stacked. We’re going to be solid.”

The linebacker duo know they have big shoes to fill. 2022 CIF Defensive Player of the Year Malachi Beacham racked up 164 tackles last season, more than any two Grizzlies’ totals combined.

“I feel like we’re filling them pretty well,” Anderson said. “There’s a lot of big guys we had last year that’ll be hard to replace but I think we’re doing a pretty good job.”

Torres will also look to leave his mark at strong safety, while teammate Sean Gomez mans the top of the defense at free safety. Gomez will also likely take over kicking duties.

Kelley has liked what he’s seen from his new-look group, but everything changes when the pads and hel-

mets come on.

“It’s a work in progress,” Kelley said. “We’ll see who steps it up here in a week when we go into pads. It makes you as a coach realize what you’ve got because everybody can look great without helmets and shoulder pads. You put them on and here we go.”

The team is managing expectations well. The Grizzlies see no reason why it wouldn’t be them competing for a league or CIF championship.

“I think that we’re going to be very underrated and we’re going to shock a lot of people,” Orozco said. “I think we’re going to break some expectations of what people expect from last year’s team to this year’s team.”

2023 Roster

NAME

1 Donnavan Anson TE/LB Jr.

2 Jamison Torres WR/DB Jr.

3 Sean Gomez WR/DB Sr.

4 Ricky Gonzalez RB/DB Jr.

5 Brandon Contreras QB Jr.

6 Anthony Seragusa WR/DB Jr.

7 Braydon Hudson WR/DB Jr.

8 Jackson Anderson TE/LB Sr.

9 Christian Patino WR/DB Sr.

10 Alex Risdon K Sr.

11. Jessen Rodriguez WR/DB Jr.

12. John Mia QB Jr.

13 Rico Lapid RB/LB Jr.

14 Aryan Chandra K Jr.

15 Isaac Gavina WR/DB Sr.

17 Adrian Ramos WR/LB Sr.

18 Julian Rios RB/DB Sr.

19 Jordan Flores WR/DB Jr.

20 Anthony Castillo WR/DB Jr.

21 Jonah Garcia WR/DB Jr.

22 Kamron Pierre WR/DB Sr.

23 Christopher Farley TE/LB

“It’s always the same goals,” Kelley said. “We’re still looking for that first league title, but we’re coming close. It’s a big hurdle. It took West Ranch a while to get there and we’re the same age as them. It really does take a complete football team to win a league title.”

Last year’s CIF run has still left a taste in this team’s mouth. “I’m excited, we’ve been working hard in the weight room,” Anderson said. “I feel like there’s a lot more enthusiasm and drive being runner-ups last season. We’re hungry for more.”

The Grizzlies fell just one point shy of a CIF champi-

AUGUST 18, 2023

See GOLDEN VALLEY, page 39

2023 Roster

VALENCIA

Continued from 17

2023 Roster

to get his chemistry with the corps as high as possible.

2023 Roster

1 Donnavan Anson TE/LB Jr.

2 Jamison Torres WR/DB Jr.

3 Sean Gomez WR/DB Sr.

4 Ricky Gonzalez RB/DB Jr.

the Vikings will return four starters from the offensive line: Konner Quitevis, Rocco Inzalaco, Cash Marxer and Daniel Acosta.

5 Brandon Contreras QB Jr.

6 Anthony Seragusa WR/DB Jr.

7 Braydon Hudson WR/DB Jr.

8 Jackson Anderson TE/LB Sr.

9 Christian Patino WR/DB Sr.

10 Alex Risdon K Sr.

11.

Muir has a decision to make at quarterback. Senior Jackson Askins is emerging as the starter after spending 2022 as the backup. Askins is a 6-foot, 2-inch lefthander with solid chemistry with the receivers. Also competing is sophomore Brady Bretthauer, who led the 2022 Valencia junior varsity with 1,959 passing yards, 37 total touchdowns and one interception en route to a perfect 10-0 season. Bretthauer has picked up college offers from UNLV and San Jose State.

“We haven’t made that decision yet,” Muir said. “(Askins) has gotten a lot of reps this summer and he’s improved a lot. He really has. He’s really effective with his feet and he throws the ball well. I think he’s made a lot of improvements in the offseason. He got a lot of experience during the summer too. Brady’s still in there, pushing them and doing his thing.”

Senior Aidan Hicks will likely be the lead running back but Testa has shown impressive flashes this summer. “We put Tony Testa in at running back as well,” Muir said. “He’s a really good running back and linebacker. He’s probably had one of the best offseasons I’ve seen by a football player in years and years and years. He did an unbelievable job in the weight room.”

At wide receiver, Cruz, Deandre Kermah, Jordan Cardenas, Nick Seymour and Wilson will be some names to keep an eye on. Each receiver won’t leave the field much as they all also play defense.

Askins knows his receivers well and has put in all the work possible

“We have big chemistry and throughout all summer and last year, I’ve been going out throwing with (the receivers),” Askins said. “We all have really good chemistry, especially with Jayboe and Dre. I’ve thrown with them probably every day for the last six months. Nick Seymour, I’ve played with him since I was 9 years old, so I know him well. Isaac Shin, he’s quick, but I’m learning him right now. That’s my project right now, learning him, but we’re getting there.”

Valencia always aims to be as balanced as possible, but with all the weapons in the receiving corps, Askins is hoping to throw a little more this season.

“I think we’ll be more pass-heavy this year,” Askins. “I think the offense has changed a bit, but I think it’s definitely more pass-heavy this year than it was run in previous years. So, I’m excited for that because as a quarterback, I work on throwing the ball and sling it.”

The JV team featured dozens of talented underclassmen Valencia will pull up to varsity for 2023.

“A lot of really talented guys came up from the JV last year,” Muir said. “They did a really good job at 10-0 and so there’s a group of guys that we’re bringing up and on top of that, there were some freshmen last year that really contributed and did a really good job.”

Bretthauer, Ronald Bruner, Brian Bonner, Luke Alano and Elias Willis are just a few of the undefeated Vikings joining varsity this season.

Valencia will also have big shoes to fill on special teams, after the graduation of kicker Cameron Fontal, who kicked off, kicked field goals and punted for Valencia.

“(Special teams) is one of the areas that we’re going to have to grow up fast, there’s no question about it,”

Muir said. “Joseph Monti and Joey Gray, those two guys are going to really get the special teams going. They have to fill in for Fontal, who did everything, and those guys have to really mature fast.”

Muir has seen a successful sum-

CANYON

Continued from 21 depth in the secondary. Elijah Herreres and Dane Lawler are some players that played really well for us last year at linebacker and have again made a jump in growth for their senior year.”

Herreres led the team in tackles last year and is one of several game-wreckers for the Cowboys.

“The linebacker group, we’ve got some dogs for sure,” Olujich said. “I know our D-line is one of our strongest and I have faith in our DBs to cover the pass, so I think we’ll be good all around.”

Several Cowboys will play two ways, including senior Jeremiah Taylor. The receiver has picked up several Division 1 offers and will move from cornerback to safety while serving as the top wideout.

Taylor, Eyezik Ruppert and Josh Cambaliza will be some defensive backs to keep an eye on.

“Our secondary is really looking nice this year,” Taylor said. “We’ve got a lot of fast and aggressive players with big hits and stuff like that, so it’s going to be fun.”

Taking over at quarterback is senior Caleb Sparks, who has picked up the notorious Wing-T offense’s playbook well and feels a great chemistry with his receiving corps.

“We’re pretty in sync,” Sparks said. “I think we’re on pace to win a lot of games this season. We’re doing really well with our playbook and I think we can have a good season this year.”

The gunslinger can throw well and has standouts at receiver in Taylor and Ruppert. Taylor is also excited about the tight end group this year, highlighted by Olujich, Herreres and Giovani Uriquieta.

Sparks has plenty of options in the pass but with the talent in the back-

field, Canyon will likely stick to tradition and be a run-heavy offense.

Ganisten Turner and Evan Watts return at running back. Turner, a senior, flashed his speed last season with three 100-yard rushing games while the bigger Watts, a junior, shined as a power back. Junior Keston Banos will also likely be a factor.

“Our philosophy is always going to be ‘run the ball first,’” Holsenbeck said. “With the physicality of the game, we like to establish that run. Obviously, we’re in a much better situation than we were a year ago in terms of our ability to go throw the ball.”

Two juniors, Andrew Ruiz and Zach Demarest, will take on big responsibilities on the offensive front but Holsenbeck has liked what he’s seen from that group so far.

The team knows the Foothill League will be a tall task but just a few wins will push the team closer to its goal and into the CIF playoffs.

“Our league is really strong but it prepares us for playoffs and makes us better,” Taylor said. “It makes us better mentally, too, because we face a tough league, unlike most teams.”

However, the team feels more confident and is looking forward to snapping long losing streaks against league rivals.

“We’re in a great league, there’s no doubt about it,” Holsenbeck said. “I feel much better about our ability to compete in that league this year, though, and I’m looking forward to seeing how we’ll do.”

Canyon is looking for its first wins against Valencia and Hart in over 10 years, while also looking to beat Golden Valley and West Ranch for the first time in over eight seasons.

The Cowboys were just two points away from forcing overtime against Golden Valley last season and are amped for their 2023 matchup.

“We want us some Golden Valley Grizzlies,” Taylor said. “We lost by

2023 Roster

two points last year and they know they shouldn’t have won that game but it’s OK. We were overlooked and they didn’t expect us to come out like that. So, we have to go and punch them in the mouth again this year.”

Canyon has the chance to take another big leap as a program. The Cowboys have the longest active streak now entering year 16 without a Foothill League championship but are inching closer to the mark.

“I just hope we come ready,” Olujich said. “I hope that we keep the same energy and that we take adversity on and come in with a chip on our shoulder. We just have to go out there and do what we gotta do. No matter what.”

8 | 2023 FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CASTAIC

Continued from 25

all about character, not just football. We want kids to have that.”

The pieces are starting to fall in place for Castaic. Last year, two skill players took over the offense at quarterback. This year Dominic Espinoza and Lucas Milan can return to their natural positions on both sides of the ball. The starting spot is clearing up for Clark High School (Las Vegas) transfer Tyler Lewis.

The two-star quarterback arrived in town just a few months ago from Nevada but has quickly gotten into the groove with his fellow Coyotes.

“It’s been going just fine,” Lewis said. “They were a very welcoming and great team. When I came in, we hit the ground and haven’t stopped running.”

Gibson will be a big threat at receiver alongside Milan, Paul Lotz and Brandon Marshall.

Lewis will lead the balanced offense with strong runners behind him. Monty Coleman and Jacob Pimentel will be a running back tandem, with pass-catching capabilities.

Pimental led the squad with 268 rushing yards and five scores last season. The back will have an improved line in front of him and a new quarterback but thinks the receivers will shine brightest.

“Brandon Marshall will stand out,” Pimentel said. “I think all of our receivers with our quarterbacks will as well. I think we have a good passing game along with our O-line. We’re going to get it done.”

Marshall’s junior season was cut short in 2022 due to injuries but the team’s revamped offense may be just what the doctor ordered.

Up front, Nate Ramirez and Adamo Butera will be two big linemen paving the way for the offense. Butera also missed time last season

with a knee injury and Ramirez is grateful to have his teammate back.

2023 Roster

“The line has improved a lot,” Ramirez said. “We got one of our big linemen, Adamo, back healthy from a knee injury. So I think we’re going to dominate this year.”

Tons of returners will take the field on defense. On the line, defensive ends Cyrus Gradoville and Jordan Cook, also returning from an ACL tear, will be rushing the edges. The two are learning under former Saugus defensive line coach Rocco Cordola.

“We’re looking really good,” Gradoville said. “Rocco’s taught us a whole bunch of new stuff and we’re here every single day getting better. We’re going to have a pretty good year. I think we’re going to be able to get pressure consistently this year.”

Espinoza moves back into the linebacker group full time while Milan, Lotz, Miller and Gibson will man the secondary. “I’m really thinking our defense is going to stand out this year,” Gibson said. “We’ve changed so much from last year. We’ve changed a lot of our previous players’ positions and I really think that that’s going to do a lot of damage to the other teams.”

The Coyotes’ depth feels stronger, with most players coming back bigger, faster and stronger. Practices have in turn been intense. “It’s been a lot more intense, especially compared to last year,” Gradoville said. “We’re going at it every day and the heat gets to you. Once you’re competing with your brother as much as we are, it becomes a little hectic but of course it’s always fun.”

Shakir has seen the intensity in every practice and loves the energy his team is building in the offseason.

“I like (the intensity) a lot because that shows now they’re practicing what they preach,” Shakir said. “They say they’re ready for it and now that it’s here, they’ve intensified

2023 Roster

even more and upped the tempo. Everything is going at a faster pace.” Defenses should prepare to play faster as Castaic is all about tempo.

“Our up-tempo, 100%,” Gradoville said on what will set the team apart from others. “Every practice, we’re up-tempo and we’re a quicker team in my opinion. We like to use our speed. We have that tempo

TRINITY

Continued from 27

Parrinello knows each year brings a new team, different from the last. This season the team will enjoy more depth than normal and enjoy not too big of a drop-off from the starters to the second string.

“This year, we don’t have some of those superstars yet,” Parrinello said. “We’re going to have them and they’re going to emerge, but we don’t have those returning superstars. However, we’ve got a lot more overall talent. Our ones to twos are much closer in ability than they have been probably in many years here. So that depth is going to be a little bit different for us.”

Special teams were a focal point in 2022, and the team will aim for the same this year, so fans can expect plenty of points and big punts from junior kicker Noah Miller.

The newer players to the team may not be full-time football players but have showcased some impressive athleticism for Parrinello.

“There’s just a lot of guys that you go, ‘Man, there’s some talent there,’” he said. “We just have to turn them into football players. What’s really been fun about this year is every day I’m more impressed with this team. Every day I’m seeing them emerging and becoming better football players. It’s actually exciting from a coaching point of view.”

As always with Trinity, a small-

er school, you can expect plenty of two-way players to shine on both sides of the ball.

2023 Roster

“I think our grit and determination stands out,” Visconti said. “We’ve been working hard in the mornings weightlifting and we’re getting in the gym. We’re a smaller team so I think we will have a lot of two-way players. They’re fighting hard, sweating, playing 110 plays a game and they’re going to be dying out there but they’re going to do great because we’re going to be full grit.”

The Knights are aiming to return to the playoffs after a one-year hiatus but will have to get through a tough non-league schedule and Mesquite League in the process. Trinity opens up the season with Bosco Tech and Firebaugh but will take on Arleta and Nordhoff before heading into league play.

Trinity opens league play with Arrowhead Christian, a team that reached the CIF Division 13 quarterfinals in 2022.

“The goal is to win and as long as we go out there and we win every Friday, we’re doing our job,” Frazier said. “I just want to protect my quarterback on offense and on defense I want to get back there and kill their quarterback.”

Carlson is doing everything he can with the team to make sure the Knights are ready to go.

“There’s definitely some young talent here,” Carlson said. “We’re work-

GOLDEN VALLEY

Continued from 34

onship last season but know what it takes to win in the playoffs. Now they’ll aim to make it to the coach’s third CIF title game.

“What I want is to get a ring on the finger,” Orozco said. “That’s everybody’s goal. But I think the main goal is to take it week by week, step by step.”

Golden Valley will plan for a tough preseason to pre-

2023 Roster

2 Noah Visconti QB Jr.

7 Andrew Kelley WR/FS/C Jr.

8 John Carlson RB/MLB/TE Jr.

10 Thomas Paz RB/CB So.

15 Owen Kush RB/WR/CB Sr.

18 Adam

ing hard, coming out here and making sure we do what we need to do to be ready for the fall. I think we’ve installed our playbook on both sides of the ball. I think we can definitely do some fine tuning and make sure that we’re all on the same page.” 

pare for the Foothill League. The Grizzlies open up with road trips to Newbury Park and Quartz Hill, and with home games against Antelope Valley and Garfield.

“I think that’s going to get us ready for the Foothill League and everybody’s getting better,” Kelley said. “Castaic is getting better, Canyon got better, West Ranch will be defending their title. Saugus and Valencia will be tough and Hart’s going to be tough with their crew there. So there’s no slouches in our schedule. We’re going to have to play our best football.” 

SCCS

Continued from 29

Rappleye has an easy answer for that.

“To stay calm, trust the Lord, you know. He’ll guide you through the way,” Rappleye said. “All the stress and everything like that, I should just use it to my ability and go out there and be like, ‘You know what, this is what it is. This is what it’s going to be. I’m ready for it.’”

The Cardinals are more than just their quarterback. Returning with him on the offensive side of the ball are junior wide receiver Eli Duhm, the team’s other all-Southern Section selection; junior wide receiver Wyatt Shields; senior center Jude Patton; and junior running back Jonathan Boelter.

Duhm led all Cardinals receivers ith 57 catches for 751 yards and 15 touchdowns. He returns along with most of the receiving corps from last season, a group that includes junior Wyatt Shields (37 catches, 339 yards, six TDs) and a couple of unproven guys in junior Wyatt Waldron and sophomore Caleb Shaffer. Carter Aispuro was the only senior receiver on last year’s squad.

Those four will be tasked with getting open in Fry’s zone-read system, one that worked wonders last season and, with more options, could be even more dangerous. Duhm thinks the depth — Fry said he has 25 players looking to make the team — will also help when players inevitably go down with injuries.

“It’s a really big help, especially at practice, we can get a full scout team against our offense,” Duhm said. “And it’s a lot easier to fill, in especially when someone gets injured.”

Taking over at tailback will be junior Jonathan Boelter after Timmy Tadler transferred to Hart following a standout sophomore campaign.

Fry is expecting big things out of Boelter, who transitions to fully being a two-way player after filling in mostly at defensive end last season.

“He’s a big kid, and he’s so fast,” Fry said. “I’m really excited to put him in that spot. We tried it last year, and I think we tried it in ways that didn’t help him succeed. And I think this year, to give him that whole spectrum of run plays now — not just the dive or the power, but actually make him think through where he’s running — if he gets it, I mean, it can be exciting.”

Many of those players who are expected to carry the load offensively are also expected to do the same on the defensive side of the ball. Rappleye and Duhm were standouts on defense, with two and five interceptions, respectively, with the former also stepping up to lead the team in tackles with 100.

Boelter comes back after a teamhigh six sacks last season, while Shields will fill in at defensive back, senior Jude Patton looks to anchor the defense at linebacker and senior Noah Butler is hoping to put an injury-riddled season behind him and lead the offensive line.

Butler was forced to sit out the first half of last season after transferring from Saugus, and once he got back on the field, he tore his ACL in just his second game. The senior hopes to be medically cleared in time for full contact by the start of the season and truly take the reigns as the defensive captain for the Cardinals, a role that was held by Landon Hermanson.

“Being a leader on the team, team captain I would say I’m kind of taking that role of Landon,” Butler said. “He was a [defensive end]. I wasn’t able to play a lot last year, so just being that loud player who leads the team spiritually and being a leader and being that role for the team. I just need to step up and be an ex-

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2023 Roster

ample to the teammates.”

Patton is a believer that all of the pieces are sure to fit together.

“I think we’ve all developed very well, especially some of my teammates who have been going to football camps,” Patton said. “I think it’s really dangerous for other teams facing our offense, seeing how well our pass game is and even how well our blocking has become. I would be scared if I were them.”

So why not the Cardinals? As much as Fry is a believer in his team, he knows every other team has been improving as well.

“For us, I think knowing we were two points away from a semifinal,” Fry said, “that gives fuel to our hopes that if we were that close to a semi, and then we’re getting better — we know everyone else is getting better — but if we’re getting better, then why can’t we aim for that or more?” 

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Valencia 24051 Newhall Ranch Road, Building C Valencia, CA 91354

where we’re going to tire you out and then we’re just going to keep going.”

Shakir has already enacted roles for his non-starters and reserves as well. Players not on the field will always be engaged or helping in any way possible.

“We’re trying to establish if you’re not in the game, you’re either learning or teaching,” Shakir said. “The more we know as a unit, the more you know as a player and the more valuable you are. So that’s kind of really stood out how they have helped each other and how they’ve been good teammates.”

Shakir and Cordola are just a few members of the Castaic coaching staff that has immensely grown since last season. The Coyotes had just five coaches for both varsity and junior varsity last season but will bolster that to 14 in 2023, giving Shakir a little extra time to focus on the program’s future.

The team hasn’t set any more goals besides battling in each game. Gradoville and the seniors will nonetheless do everything in their

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mer in the weight room leading to a number of players making huge physical strides. The Vikings are two years past winning a CIF title and four years without a Foothill League championship but are ready to erase both of those streaks.

“Our whole defense is full of guys that are bigger dudes that just want to get at it together,” Farrell said. “That’s what we needed as a team… It just shows when you walk in the field and when the team’s close, they walk on the field like they own it.

power to try to accomplish what their buddies on the baseball team did.

“As a D-line we just want the basic torment of opposing quarterbacks,” Gradoville said. “But as a team, personally, I want to go to playoffs and I want to win CIF in my senior season just like our baseball team did. Playoffs are a big goal for the whole team of course.”

Last year is well behind the team and Gibson feels better than ever about getting another shot at Foothill League teams.

“I guess our main goal right now is just to be prepared for what’s coming for us because you never know,” Gibson said. “Everyone says that they have a game plan until they get punched in the face. So, I guess our game plan is to be prepared to be punched in the face. We have to be ready to take a hit but not to give up. We just have to get back up and keep fighting.”

Castaic will run it back with the exact same schedule as last season, in the same order too.

The team will open up at Adelanto, a game that was eventually awarded a victory to Castaic due to

That’s the difference. My sophomore year going into playoffs, that team just owned it when they walked on the field. And this year, it’s gonna be something even better than that.”

A 5-5 regular season could be considered solid for a lot of football programs. However, the Vikings are ready to leave 2022 behind.

“Last year was rough. We have to grow and learn from it,” Muir said. “I think the guys have to mature. Last year, we were close on a lot of things and I think we were always just close and were just kind of missing it. That’s where we got to push it and get that past us. That’s

CIF rule violations leading to a forfeit. The Coyotes then take on Royal and Burbank, two teams that Castaic put 20 points on last year in losses. Castaic will also host Eastside, the only team they beat last season.

The Coyotes have a solid chance of improving as a program and taking some big strides this season. The team will aim to win its first home game, league game and maybe even playoff game.

Either way, Shakir and the group are excited to retake the field. Castaic will battle week in and week out regardless of the score to help build a positive culture for the young program.

“I love these guys. These are good kids and they have really bought in,” Shakir said. “They’re working real hard. They understand the expectations and they’re trying to do whatever they can live up to those right now. Rule No. 1 was changing the culture and I think we’ve kind of done that but we still have work to do. Everything else is just brick by brick as they say.” 

got to be the mission.”

The room feels different this season, with all Vikings feeling a change of energy.

“With our aggressiveness, it was kind of embarrassing watching us last year looking like we didn’t want to be there,” Pikor said. “The energy is there this year. The kids on the team want to play football. We want to be here … Every time we had alumni come practice, and talk about older teams, they said something about their team and I couldn’t relate to it. But this year I relate to it. Valencia football is back.” 

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