CA Issue 35, Nov. 10, 2011

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vol. 2. issue 35

November 10, 2011

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endure | excel | achieve

We predict

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california

section champs Pgs. 6, 27

Net results El camino’s sights set beyond sections.

Pg. 24

grinders: Vacaville’s ground game demands respect.

Pg. 28

impulse: November is a gamer’s paradise.

Pg. 31

Resurgent Leland-San Jose goes full speed toward CCS playoffs. Pg. 14

all access

crown ’em Led by Natalie Riddering, El Camino-Sacramento won’t be satisfied with only a section title in volleyball. They want the big crown. Pg. 24 James K. Leash

Red Zone: In an era of flashy passing offense, Vacaville hangs its hat on its back-to-basics approach. Pg. 28

First Pitch.................................................... 6 Locker Room............................................. 8 AAA SportStars of the Week...............11 Health Watch...........................................12 Behind the Clipboard.............................18 Tee2Green................................................20 Tri Steps....................................................23 Impulse......................................................31 Training Time............................................32 Camps + Clinics......................................33 Reader Survey..........................................37 Photo Finish..............................................38

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Darryl Henick

SJS volleyball: Sectionby-section, we break down the tourneys. Pg. 27

Vacaville’s Curtis Goins

do as I say: Coaches say a lot, but truth within the program is paramount. Pg. 18

ON THE COVER: Leland-San Jose WR, Jeff Carnduff. Photo by Norbert von der Groeben.

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For the diehard high school sports fan, the holidays are finally here

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here are plenty of stretches in the it to avenge its only loss from this year traditional academic school year (Enterprise-Redding), and a finals loss when it’s great to be a publication from a year ago (Paradise). that details high school sports.

■ Norther Section-Division II: We’ll However, for me, it doesn’t get any go with another No. 2 in Sutter. We realbetter than the next five weeks. This ize they just lost to top seed Orland 28-7 issue releases on Nov. 10, which will be on Nov. 4, but we think the second time the opening night of football playoffs for will be the charm. some teams in the Sac-Joaquin Section.

■ Norther Section-Division III: We’re The Northern Section will begin football intrigued by Pierce-Arbuckle, but three playoffs the following night, and the No. 2 seeds in a row is just silly. Top-seed North Coast and Central Coast Sections Durham and its fierce defense gets it done. open things up Nov. 18.

■ Norther Section-Division IV: And while football will be king for Hamilton-Hamilton City has been the the month-long stretch that ends with gold standard in this division for quite the California Interscholastic Federation some time. A current eight-game winning State Championship bowl games on Dec. streak makes us think that won’t change.

16-17, it’s most certainly not the only ■ Sac-Joaquin Section-Division I: sport that makes this stretch great.

You know it’s a tough playoff field when There are four state championship Grant-Sacramento is a No. 6 seed. We events during this time — more than any like — surprise — the No. 2 seed, though: other season.

Pleasant Grove-Elk Gove, Girls golf gets it started on Nov. 15 — ■ Sac-Joaquin Section-Division II: hosted in our half of the state this year at We’re going to be disappointed if the Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach. final doesn’t boil down to the undefeated You can read about some of the qualifysquads of Buhach Colony-Atwater and ing teams the North State is sending in Elk Grove. And we’ll take Elk Grove. (And this issue’s Tee 2 Green section beginning yes, the Thundering Herd are a two seed.) on page 20.

This bracket also features a No. 6 seed The CIF State Cross Country Champi(Folsom) who could run the table — and onships come along less than two weeks maybe score 200 points while doing so. later, as the state’s best distance runners ■ Sac-Joaquin Section-Division III: descend on Woodward Park in Fresno We like Del Oro-Loomis. And we’ll let Nov. 26. Girls volleyball falls one week you guess what seed they are. later on Dec. 3 at Concordia University ■ Sac-Joaquin Section-Division in Irvine. Northern California claimed IV: Escalon and Colfax is another allan unprecedented four state titles when unbeaten title match that we’d like to see. the volleyball championships were held at And we’re taking the defending champ, San Jose State a year ago. We can bet that Escalon, winners of 22 straight. the Southern California teams can’t wait ■ Sac-Joaquin Section-Division V: to play host this time around.

We’ll pick Le Grand. Not because they’re Chace@ And then finally there’s state football. the top seed, but because the name of the SportStarsOnline.com But amongst all that state championschool makes us think of ZZ Top. ship madness, section championships ■ North Coast Section-Division I: (925) 566-8503 will also be decided in those four sports, Finally to a section without brackets. We as well as water polo, soccer and field don’t need one for this division, though. hockey in some sections.

De La Salle-Concord makes it 20 straight.

AND EVEN STILL ... December brings the opening of ■ North Coast Section-Division II: Somebody might winter sports and basketball tournament season. end up surprising us, but we feel pretty confident that this is Seriously, we dare you to think of a better five-week winWindsor’s year. dow of the high school sports season.

■ North Coast Section-Division III: Cardinal NewmanJust the thought of football playoff games getting underSanta Rosa will be the top seed and certain favorite. And way the very day this magazine hits the streets has us giddy. while we love Campolindo-Moraga’s rags-to-riches story To celebrate, we figured we’d throw some quick blind stab (check out the Red Zone on page 29), we don’t see them toppredictions out for as many section championship football pling the Cardinals. brackets as possible. Some will be a little easier than others ■ North Coast Section Division IV: Salesian will be the since they don’t have brackets drawn up yet. And just so you heavy favorite, but we’re taking Ferndale — the little giants don’t think we only care about football, you can turn to page from Humboldt County — mainly because we’re banking on 27 for a breakdown on some of the section volleyball tournathe fact that Wildcats will be the No. 2 seed. ments that are already underway.

Space considerations will make me draw the line there. But Here we go. We’ll start with the sections that have brackets we’re not done. Visit us on our homepage at www.SportStaralready. sOnline.com where we’ll list even more predections by the ■ Northern Section-Division I: We’re going with No. end of the week, including the Central Coast Section.

2-seed Foothill-Palo Cedro here. The bracket sets up for Until then, enjoy the next five weeks. ✪

FIRST PITCH Chace Bryson Editor

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PHONE 925.566.8500 FAX 925.566.8507 Editorial Editor@SportStarsOnline.com Editor Chace Bryson. Ext. 104 • Chace@SportStarsOnline.com Contributors Bill Kolb, Erik Stordahl, Mitch Stephens, Doug Gardner, Matt Smith, Clay Kallam, Jim McCue, Eric Gilmore, Dave Kiefer, Liz Elliott, Tim Rudd Photography Butch Noble, Bob Larson, Jonathan Hawthorne, Darryl Henick, Norbert von der Groeben Creative Department Art@SportStarsOnline.com Production Manager Mike DeCicco. Ext. 103 • MikeD@SportStarsOnline.com Publisher/President Mike Calamusa. Ext. 106 • Mike@SportStarsOnline.com Advertising & Calendar/Classified Sales Sales@SportStarsOnline.com Account Executives Erik Stordahl • ErikS@SportStars Online.com (Special Sections, Calendar, Marketplace sales) Reader Resources/Administration Ad Traffic, Subscription, Calendar & Classified Listings info@SportStarsOnline.com • Deb Hollinger. Ext. 101 • Distribution/Delivery Mags@SportStarsOnline.com Distribution Manager Butch Noble. Ext. 107 • Butch@SportStarsOnline.com Information technology John Bonilla CFO Sharon Calamusa • Sharon@SportStarsOnline.com Office Manager/Credit Services Deb Hollinger. Ext. 101 • Deb@SportStarsOnline.com Board of Directors Dennis Erokan, CEO, Placemaking Group Roland Roos, CPA, Roland Roos & Co Susan Bonilla, State Assembly Drew Lawler, Managing Director, AJ Lawler Partners Brad Briegleb, Attorney At Law community SportStars™ Magazine A division of Caliente! Communications, LLC 5356 Clayton Rd., Ste. 222 • Concord, CA • 94521 info@SportStarsOnline.com www.SportStarsOnline.com

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your ticket to bay area sports admit one; rain or shine This Vol. #2, November 2011 Whole No. 35 is published by Caliente! Communications, LLC, 5356 Clayton Rd, Ste. 222, Concord, CA 94521. SportStars™© 2010 by Caliente! Communications, LLC. All rights reserved. Subscription rates: 24 issues, U.S. 3rd class $42 (allow 3 weeks for delivery). 1st class $55. To receive sample issues, please send $3 to cover postage. Back issues are $4 each. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of Publisher is strictly prohibited.

The staff and management, including Board of Directors, of SportStars™© does not advocate or encourage the use of any product or service advertised herein for illegal purposes. Editorial contributions, photos and letters to the editor are welcome and should be addressed to the Editor. All material should be typed, double-spaced on disk or email and will be handled with reasonable care. For materials return, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope. SportStars™© and STARS!™© Clinics are registered trademarks of Caliente! Communications, LLC.

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count’EM

Number of players initially called in by the US Soccer Federation for their combined Under-23/Under-20 men’s camp in Duisburg, Germany. Among those called in is David Bingham, former California High School and University of California-Berkeley goalkeeper. He currently plays for the San Jose Earthquakes.

To see a clip of an amazing goal Bingham scored against West Bromwich Albion of the English Premier League, go to www.SportStarsOnline.com! Also called in was midfilelder Sebastian Lletget of San Francisco, who currently plays for the EPL’S West Ham United reserves.

reasons we’re thankful The holiday season is upon us, and we always find ourselves getting a bit reflective around the holidays. So before we tuck into our turkey and stuffing (and pie!), here are the top five things that we’re thankful for.

1. High school athletes. Not just because we’d have to find someone else to write about if they weren’t around. They pour so much time and dedication into honing their skills for nothing other than the sheer joy of the thing, and every time we watch them go to work, we see something we’ve never seen before.

2. High school coaches. You wanna talk about time and dedication? Let’s talk about the men and women who give a lot – instruction, wisdom, inspiration – for a little.

3. High school parents. Yeah, yeah. We’ll admit you make us nuts sometimes when you, ahem, lack a little perspective about your schools’ teams. But you’re fierce advocates for your kids, and we dig that. Plus, who else would drive the carpool?

4. Northern California. Seriously. Is there a better place in the world to live for a high school sports fan? You can’t beat the competition and talent just oozing out of this place we call home. Not to mention the fact that, with the exception of one weird thunder-and-lightning show, we haven’t REALLY had to deal with any inclement weather throughout the fall season. Can the folks in Texas or Ohio make that claim? We’re just saying.

5. Choice. Don’t wanna play football? Try water polo. Not your bag? Cross country anyone? How do you feel about golf? Volleyball? Tennis? Lacrosse? Don’t like the fall options? Wait ‘til basketball/soccer/wrestling rolls around. Or baseball, softball, swimming/diving/track/badminton… What we’re saying here is that there’s a sport for every body. And that makes us pretty thankful.

— Bill Kolb

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rapidFIRE

Scariest movie you’ve seen

Best Halloween costume you saw this year

Paranormal Activity 3

Ron Burgundy

Avatar

Jordan Louis, College Park, football

Drag Me To Hell

Sydney Shipley, Pinole Valley softball

Chatter is an occasional Locker Room feature where we highlight and respond to reader emails or Facebook posts. Join the conversation any time by emailing Editor@SportStarsOnline.com or visiting us at www.facebook.com/sportstars.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the article regarding Damariay Drew (Issue #34, Oct. 27). I have read it several times and it brings tears to my eyes every time. I fell in love with this kid the first time he stepped foot on a football field at age 9. He just has this smile that melts your heart.

His story is an inspiration to players, coaches and parents.

He had people in his life from the very beginning who didn’t give up on him, regardless of what was going on in his life, and eventually he began to believe in himself. I am very proud of the young man he has become and look forward to all the things that lie ahead of him.

—Michelle (e-mail, Oct. 28) We couldn’t agree more, Michelle! For those of you who missed the article, you can find it at www.SportStarsOnline. com.

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When will the next NBA game be played

Favorite item on Thanksgiving menu

Blowout all the way

Hopefully sometime next year

Mashed potatoes

Last play of the game

After Christmas

Stuffing

Win via blowout or on the last play

Favorite energy drink

sayWHAT? “I knew No. 77 Jake Simonich is a DivisionI tackle, and if I didn’t bring my ‘A’ game I would’ve gotten owned all night. I knew I had to bring every ounce I had on every single play.”

De La Salle-Concord junior defensive end, Austin Hooper, after posting a career-high five sacks on Oct. 28 against San Ramon ValleyDanville and Cal-bound quarterback, Zach Kline. De La Salle won the game 40-3.

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Powered by

Arik Bird Granite Bay . Football. Senior

Butch Noble Like us on Facebook

ARIK’S QUICK HITS Favorite NFL team: Colts Favorite athlete: Wes Welker Favorite ice cream flavor: Mint chocolate chip

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To say Arik Bird was in flight (pun intended) against Roseville on Nov. 5 would be an understatement. With the help of his offensive line, Bird danced through the Roseville defense en route to 239 rushing yards and three touchdowns, including one for 80 yards in a 35-14 win.

SportStars Magazine: You put up big of numbers against Roseville. What was working for you that game?

Arik Bird: Our offensive line was just getting off the ball and dominating the line of scrimmage.

Everyone gives me credit for getting all the yards but the O-line does the job for me.

SSM: The playoffs are around the corner. How do you guys keep this going?

AB: We have to stick together.

We have our sights set. Our goal is to win the section, but we just take it game by game. We’re expecting to make a run in this thing and hopefully go all the way.

SSM: Favorite TD of the season?

SSM: My first touchdown of the season against Reed of Reno.

It was all jammed up and some guys couldn’t get a hold of me.

My QB made a good block on the corner and I was running down the sideline. The score cut their lead to 21-14. It boosted our team.

honorable mention

erich wilson The Washingtonbound running back returned a kickoff for a 99-yard TD against Sacred Heart Cathedral-San Francisco on Nov. 5 — his 39th career TD at Serra, passing Lynn Swann and Deleon Eskridge.

carly childs The Alameda senior golfer shot a record-setting 7-under-par 64 at the NCS championships, then followed that up by winning the NorCal championships on Nov. 7.

Rickimae Torres The Dougherty Valley-San Ramon sophomore tennis standout won her second DFAL singles title two years, ousting Acalanes’ Tessa Karagocev 6-4, 6-3 on Nov. 5.

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There’s no running away from shin splints

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thletes that have pain in their lower leg usually describe their injury as “shin splints.” However, this term is used to describe a variety of overuse injuries in the lower leg including medial tibial stress syndrome, stress fractures, and compartment syndrome.

Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) is one of the most common leg injuries in athletes.

There are many suspected causes of MTSS, but current research does not implicate any one factor above the others.

Overuse by sudden increase in duration, frequency, or intensity of impact activities may lead to muscle fatigue or failure of the bones to remodel appropriately. Over-pronation occurs when the foot rolls inward and the arch collapses, which may cause increased stress on the muscles of the lower extremity. Muscle strength and flexibility imbalances that cause biomechanical faults have also been implicated in medial tibial stress syndrome.

MTSS usually presents as pain that occurs in the lower third of the tibia or shin bone. It usually is described as a dull ache and is tender to the touch along the inside of the lower leg. At the initial injury phase, pain may only occur at the beginning and end of a workout. As the injury gets worse, pain may also happen during and after activities, and at worst, even at rest.

The condition is most prevalent during preseason training,

due to increased load to the body, or late in the season after prolonged stress to the tissues. It is important for athletes to seek professional medical advice when dealing with shin splints, because more serious conditions such as stress fractures, a small crack in the bone, or compartment syndrome (increased pressure in the muscle compartment) may need to be ruled out.

The best treatment for medial tibial stress syndrome is REST! This allows the muscles to heal and the bones to remodel. Other treatments that have shown promise in current research include strengthening of the soleus (one of the two calf muscles), controlling over-pronation, promoting proper shock absorption, and cross-training.

The best prevention is proper mechanics and gradual increases in impact activities.

Remember, medial tibial stress syndrome is one pain you just can’t run away from. The earlier that you allow the damaged tissues to heal, the faster you can return to your sport of choice. ✪

Health Watch Tuan Mai

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Tuan Mai is a physical therapist, certified athletic trainer and a certified strength and conditioning specialist for Sports Medicine Center For Young Athletes, a division of Children’s Hospital Oakland with a facility also located in Walnut Creek.

If you have questions or comments regarding the “Health Watch” column, write the Sports Medicine Center For Young Athletes staff at Health@SportStarsOnline.com.

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fullyRECHA

After more than a decade of struggles and mediocrity, the Leland-San Jose football program has returned to prominence 14

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he most significant sign of Leland High’s football resurgence came from a phone call.

It was a request for a Charger hat, something to wear at the

office.

The call was from Brent Jones.

Head coach Mike Carrozzo passed along more than a hat to one of Leland’s most famous alums. He sent a box so full of Charger gear that Jones, the San Francisco 49ers’ All-Pro and three-time Super Bowl champion tight end turned venture capitalist, could have something to wear every day of the week.

Carrozzo has fielded similar calls in recent weeks, ever since the Chargers of south San Jose’s Almaden Valley began the run toward their first Mount Hamilton Division championship.

That run ended painfully at the hands of San Jose public school power Oak Grove, 40-24, in a battle for first on Nov. 4, but it hasn’t prevented the Chargers (8-1 overall, 5-1 Mount Hamilton) from closing in on their highest finish ever at the highest level of the threetiered Blossom Valley Athletic League.

It wasn’t long ago that expectations seemed too great, and that changing demographics at the school had left its football glory days in the irretrievable past. That past featured the Central Coast Section’s first champion (1972), as well as three title teams in the 1990s, including the ’93 squad led by the legendary Pat Tillman.

Only two years removed from its most recent section champion – the Division II crown of 1999 – the Chargers dipped to 0-10. From there, the team yo-yo’d between the middle-tiered Santa Teresa Division and the Mount Hamilton. The Chargers were good enough to dominate the mediocre, but not good enough to contend with the elite.

Looming over it all was Tillman, an NFL linebacker who turned down a multi-million dollar contract to join the U.S. Army Rangers in response to the attacks of Sept. 11, and was killed in Afghanistan.

Tillman, a safety-tailback-kick returner at Leland, played with a fury, a passion and without fear. It’s not hyperbole to say that he was the epitome of everything a football player should be.

ARGED Leland wide receiver, Kenny Portera Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

During a 61-14 CCS first-round playoff rout of visiting Andrew Hill-San Jose in 1993, Leland coach Terry Hardtke pulled all his starters at halftime, only for Tillman to run onto the field against the coach’s wishes and return the second-half kickoff for a touchdown.

Hardtke then confiscated Tillman’s helmet and shoulder pads and put them under a bench to keep Tillman from returning to the game.

The Tillman name lives on at Leland, which now plays at Pat Tillman Stadium. The title is plain to see above the scoreboard and press box and the renovated facility, in which the dirt track, grass, and wooden bleachers have been replaced by an all-weather track, field turf, and concrete grandstands.

“As soon as they take the field, they understand what Leland football is all about,” Carrozzo said. “They are the only team in the world that plays in Pat Tillman Stadium. Pat was such an icon of strength. It’s tough for a kid to enter Pat Tillman Stadium and say ‘I have a headache.’”

If any current player embodies Tillman’s presence, it’s senior linebacker-running back Chris Santini, a two-way standout who has committed to Boise State.

Through six games, he rushed for 598 yards on 62 carries, and had 68 tackles, including three sacks. A head injury suffered in a bicycle accident kept him on the sidelines for the next three, including the showdown against Oak Grove.

Santini was to return for the regular-season finale against Piedmont Hills. A victory could propel Leland into the CCS Open Division playoffs, the toughest of the section’s five

Story by David Kiefer | Photos by Norbert von der Groeben November 10, 2011

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playoff divisions. It would be a first for the Chargers and would create the possibility of a rematch with Oak Grove.

“One of the biggest motivators is to prove that we should have won that game,” Santini said.

No matter where the Chargers finish, Santini would like to leave a legacy that will enable the Chargers to contend for more titles after he’s gone.

“I feel a lot of people look up to me,” said Santini, who stands 6-foot-1 and weighs 215 pounds. “I want them to see that I always work hard in practice, I’m always first in conditioning. When I go to the gym, I take the younger players with me to teach them how to work out, and what kind of effort it takes to do it right.”

If there is a theme at Leland, it is one of dedication. And it’s no accident.

Carrozzo arrived in 2007 with the intention of being a full-time coach. Retired from the semiconductor industry, Carrozzo, an assistant at several area high schools and at Menlo College, was willing to put forth the time and effort that many of today’s high school programs do not get from a part-time coach.

“For every hour you put in,” Carrozzo told the team at his first practice, “I’m going to put in three. I expect a lot out of you, but you can expect a lot out of me.”

Offensive coordinator Scott Portera calls Carrozzo an “on-campus off-campus coach,” and one who arrived with certain foundational goals: ■ To hire coaches who were not “yes men.”

■ To keep the coaching staff together.

■ To open communication with teachers and administrators to keep players accountable.

■ To create a sense of trust so that the players would feel comfortable coming to the staff with personal problems.

■ To find opportunities, at any level, for his players to continue to play in college.

■ And to make the team aware of Leland’s tradition of success.

“I have a letter written by a member of that 1972 team,” Carrozzo said. “I read it in pregame warmups, so they can realize that they affect more than just each other. They’re playing for every player that’s played before us.”

The Chargers have gotten the message, rising from the Santa Teresa Division in Carrozzo’s first year and slowly up the Mount Hamilton in each year since.

“Mike has done a great job of getting the kids to believe in what we’re doing,” Portera said. “If you don’t get them to believe, they can pretty much pick out who’s full of it.”

This year’s squad not only features Santini, but improved play from quarterback Jason Habash, who completed 22 of 40 passes for 313 yards and a touchdown against Oak Grove. This season, the 6-foot-4, 200-pound senior has completed 65 percent of his throws for 1,877 yards and 20 touchdowns, and had only three intercepted. This is out of an offense with traits of the Wing-T and West Coast offenses.

Against Oak Grove, there were times when Habash looked like a major-college quarterback. Once he got into a rhythm, he was practically unstoppable, rallying Leland to within 26-24 late in the third quarter on a 13-yard pass to Kenny Portera, Scott’s son, on a wheel route.

“When he throws on time and gets to his spot in the pocket and has no indecision … in my opinion he’s the best quarterback in the CCS, bar none,” Scott Portera said. “He can be unstoppable.”

Santini praised his quarterback’s dedication to improve, especially after working with personal quarterbacks coach Adam Tafralis, a former San Jose State and current Canadian Football League quarterback, in the offseason.

It’s the same dedication that comes from the coaching staff. And it’s filtered through the ranks of a program that suddenly has alums believing in the Chargers once again.

This much is certain, on the field where Pat Tillman once starred and now lends his name, there are no headaches at Leland High. ✪ 16

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As soon as they take the field, they understand what Leland football is all about. They are the only team in the world that plays in Pat Tillman Stadium. Pat was such an icon of strength. It’s tough for a kid to enter Pat Tillman Stadium and say ‘I have a headache.’”

Head coach Mike Carrozzo, above

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Coaches may mislead the public, but honesty within a program is key If we’re coming off a 20-win season, I’ll allow that we did reasonably well, but we lost a lot of talent/ leadership/ singing ability/ whatever, and it will be hard to maintain that standard.

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Can I always believe what coaches say?

C.B., Concord

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es, the C.B. from Concord is our esteemed editor Chace Bryson, and though he didn’t ask that question in so many words, it was, in essence, the topic of his column last issue.

But it’s also important for athletes and families to understand just how devious the mind of a coach can get when it comes to milking every single milliliter of advantage from every possible situation.

So, to begin with, I always start with the premise that my basketball team will be terrible — at least for public consumption. Now if we happen to be coming off a .500 season, I might acknowledge that we have a chance to win a couple games, but only if we get lucky and the stars align.

If we’re coming off a 20-win season, I’ll allow that we did reasonably well, but we lost a lot of talent/ leadership/singing ability/whatever, and it will be hard to maintain that standard.

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And, though it will pain me greatly, if we’re coming off a very good year with a lot of very good players back, the words “We might be pretty good” could escape through my clenched teeth.

Again, for public consumption, I don’t want to put any pressure on the players, nor do I want any other coach or team to worry about us.

Hopefully, in fact, they won’t bother to scout us or pay any attention to how we do until we meet on the court. (This is unlikely, I concede, but you never know — I’m convinced one team we played last year didn’t bother to scout us, and it definitely changed the way the game played out.)

All that said, to my players and parents, I will be much more honest — though given my personality, I tend to think we’ll do worse than we will. (In fact, before games against any decent opponent, I watch the other team warm up and I’m convinced we’ll lose. “That girl is really good,” I’ll think, or “She’s going to get every rebound.”)

Behind the Clipboard Clay Kallam

Still, I try to never to mislead, either for good or bad. If I feel we’re going to win easily, I will say so; if I think we’re going to have a hard time winning, I’ll say that too.

I think players respond to that honesty much better than to a constant refrain of “These guys are really good” (even if they’re 2-17) or “We can beat them” (even if they’re No. 5 in the nation). But at the same time, it’s important to let the players and families know that what they read in publications like this one, or hear me say to other coaches and folks from other teams, is much more designed to give us a better chance to win than it is to convey how I really feel.

In short, I’d rather be underestimated than overprepared-for. I’d rather sneak up on teams than have them excited to play us. I’d always rather be the hunter than the hunted.

And if I can convince a sportswriter that we’ll be lucky to beat the Santa Maria fourth grade CYO team, that will work too. ✪ Clay Kallam is an assistant athletic director and girls varsity basketball coach at Bentley High in Lafayette. To submit a question for Behind the Clipboard, email Coach Kallam at clayk@fullcourt.com.

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Recruiting 101: National Scouting Report has the answers On Nov. 9, plenty of high-profile basketball, baseball and softball players (among other sports) had a chance to put ink to paper and secure college scholarships to play their sport at the next level.

Not every high school athlete in Northern California is that lucky, but National Scouting Report asserts that there are plenty more scholarships available than kids and parents think. It boils down to where to look.

The folks at NSR own a wealth of recruiting knowledge that they graciously offered to share to our loyal readers. We’ll do so Q&A style, listing a few of here and then providing more on occasion during the year. If there’s a specific question that comes to your mind, email it to us at Editor@SportStarsOnline.com and we’ll make sure the fine people at NSR answer it for you.

For more information about the National Scouting Report, visit www.nsr-inc.com, or you can email Stacey Harris at sharris@nsr-inc.com.

Here’s four questions to get us started.

in order to receive an athletic scholarship money in Div. I or Div. II as a freshman, you must meet the minimum academic requirements and test scores.

The Eligibility center will calculate your core course grades from your freshman year through your senior year and “qualify” you upon graduation. You should register at the beginning of your junior year.

How many NCAA schools offer golf and how many scholarships do they have?

(Jonathan Metz San Ramon Valley golf, Sr.) NSR: Believe it or not there are 733 Men’s golf programs 4.5 scholarships for Div. I and 3.6 for Div. II (These scholarships can be broken up to field a full team) Women have 430 programs with 6 scholarships for Div. I and 5.4 for Div. II. What is the Clearinghouse?

(Zach Parrella, Valley Christian-Dublin football, Sr.) NSR: Well Zach, I hate to confuse you but it’s now called the NCAA Eligibility Center and in order to receive an athletic scholarship money in Div. I or Div. II as a freshman, you must meet the minimum academic requirements and test scores.

The Eligibility center will calculate your core course grades from your freshman year through your senior year and “qualify” you upon graduation. You should register at the beginning of your junior year. (You must do this yourself; your coach can’t help you) NCAAEligibilty.org (NAIA also has eligibility center) I received a questionnaire. What do I do with it?

(Sean Visperas, Weston Ranch-Stockton basketball, Jr.) NSR: A questionnaire is that shiny piece on mail you receive from a college athletic department with an information form attached. The coaches are on a fact-finding mission to see if you would qualify for their institution and sports program. It doesn’t mean they are recruiting you, but they have identified you as a potential prospect! (Colleges send out hundreds of these for the few scholarship they offer.) The number of questionnaires you receive will indicate the amount of exposure you have with colleges.

Does Div. III have athletic scholarships?

(Devon Hutchins, West-Tracy football, Sr.) NSR: No. Div. III does not offer athletic scholarships. But don’t get discouraged. You can, and will, get recruited by these schools, and they will offer you a “financial package” based on your financial need. “Need-based” scholarships comes directly from the schools endowment and the primary criterion for qualification is your financial need. “Merit-based” is based on an outstanding quality or accomplishments that you have.

(Excellent grades and test scores).

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2011

NorCal Girls Golf Championships Mission San Jose grinds out its first regional championship

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By Chace Bryson | Editor

ill Kriskovich has spent enough time around high school golf to know that anything is possible, on any certain course, any certain day.

But even the 11-year coach of the Mission San Jose-Fremont girls golf team is willing to admit he wasn’t expecting what his team delivered on Nov. 7 at Stanford University Golf Course.

“We didn’t really know what to expect,” Kriskovich said of his team’s performance at the California Interscholastic Federation Northern Regional golf championships. “We were just crossing our fingers for a Top 3 finish.”

The Warriors, who shot a five-golfer score of 392 to finish second at the North Coast Section Tournament of Champions, returned a score of 400 at Stanford.

“If I would’ve known we’d shoot a 400 before the tournament, I would’ve told the girls, ‘Have fun today, and we’ll have our end of the year party next week,’” Kriskovich said with a chuckle.

As it turns out, the team now has plans for the third week of November.

The Warriors are headed to the CIF State Championship Tournament as the Northern California champions.

Monica Chen led the charge for Mission San Jose with a 2-over-par 72, a score that was just one stroke off of being the low round of the afternoon. Madison Hirsch delivered a 7-over 77. Taneesh Sra posted Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsOnline.com

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an 83, Meredith Hirsch and Amy Huang finished out the scoring with 84’s.

“Our goal all season was to qualify for NorCals,” Kriskovich said. “So, one thing that may have helped (that day) was that the girls may have been thinking that they’d already reached their goal and the rest was gravy. The pressure was off.”

Amador Valley-Pleasanton, who topped the Warriors by five strokes in the NCS championships, came in second at NorCals — twelve strokes behind. Christian BrothersSacramento took third place with a score of 418. Both teams also qualified for the state championships at Poppy Hills Golf Club in Pebble Beach on Nov. 15 in Pebble Beach.

Alameda senior Carly Childs took the individual with a 1-over 71. After her record day at the NCS championships she has now played her last 32 postseason holes in 6-under par. ✪ Norbert von der Groeben

UPPER LEFT: Monica Chen of Mission San Jose-Fremont watches a drive during her round at the NorCal Golf Championships on Nov. 7. TOP: Alameda’s Carly Childs continued her stellar postseason with her second straight medalist performance, posting a 1-over 71.

BOTTOM: Meredith Hirsch of Mission San Jose (left) and Cristina Glebova of Valley ChristianSan Jose each take a critical look at their upcoming putts.

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First Tee San Jose gets VIP-like treatment at Fry’s.com Open Credit the tournament organizers of the Fry’s.com Open with helping foster a love for the game of golf in these young individuals, one that is sure to stay with them throughout their lives.

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While most of their friends watched Briny Baird and Bryce Molder duke it out over six playoff holes in the Fry’s.com Open on TV, some of the youngsters from The First Tee of San Jose had a different view — right outside the ropes.

Thanks to its partnership with the Fry’s.com Open, participants from The First Tee of San Jose were given free tickets so that they could follow their favorite players around the course and see their heroes in action up close and personal.

Additionally, these participants also served as welcomers at the tournament gates, giving them an opportunity to peel back the layer and see all the time, effort and coordination that goes into making an event like a PGA tournament possible.

Credit the tournament organizers of the Fry’s. com Open with helping foster a love for the game of golf in these young individuals, one that

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is sure to stay with them throughout their lives.

The First Tee of San Jose was also delighted to once again partner with the Fry’s.com Open in putting on the PGA Tour Community Day at Rancho del Pueblo, where participants were treated to a clinic

by PGA Tour professionals free of charge. But the focus of the clinic wasn’t just on helping these youngsters lower their handicaps, but was much more about emphasizing life lessons and core values that these young players could carry with them throughout their lives.

This message echoed what The First Tee of San Jose participants had been hearing in the weeks and months leading up to the event in each of their classes. But these words certainly took on a new meaning when delivered by players like up-andcomer, and local Stanford product, Joseph Bramlett, or a champion as accomplished as two-time

First Tee Files

Ryan Hallagan

U.S. Open winner Lee Janzen.

It’s a tribute to these fine players, and our corporate partnerships with companies like Applied Materials and Pricewaterhouse Coopers, that the PGA Tour Community Day, and the entire week of the Fry’s.com Open, was such a rousing success for The First Tee of San Jose and all its participants.

The First Tee impacts the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices. Visit your local chapter of The First Tee to become a participant, volunteer or supporter. ✪ First Tee Files is a rotating column featuring administrators of four Bay Area chapters of The First Tee — Contra Costa, Oakland, San Jose and Tri-Valley. Ryan Hallagan is the administrative assistant for the The First Tee of San Jose.

Check out your local chapter by visiting one of the following websites: www.TheFirstTeeContra Costa.org, www.TheFirstTeeOakland.org, www.

TheFirstTeeSanJose.org and www.TheFirstTee TriValley.org.

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I

Nutrition, Part II: Fueling the body during, after workouts and races

n the last installment, we discussed daily nutrition. Now we will discuss workout nutrition: Before, during and after the workouts and races. Again, nutrition is a BIG topic, and there is A LOT of information you can read.

And, it is very individual. You should begin to experiment to figure out what works for you.

During and directly after training, your body needs certain types of foods at certain times, as well as hydration. Some of the packaged race nutrition, like Clif bars, Gu and Nuun, are easy to use, mostly because they’re packaged for training, and are formulated to give your body what it needs and when. That is not to say you can’t eat real food during training, like roasted potatoes or almonds on a bike ride. But during intense or on-the-go training/racing, pre-packaged foods can be great.

potatoes, beets, leafy greens, as well as synthetic sports drinks or powders.

There are many products from which to choose, including Gatorade, Nuun, Camelback, and other powders that can be added to water. Read the calories on the back. Some products contain more sugar calories, and if you are trying to lose weight, those products are not necessarily the best calories for you.

Tri Steps

Water and Electrolytes It is important to hydrate, before, during and after a practice — or anytime you sweat. Most people begin a workout, or a regular day, already dehydrated.

Hydrating your cells is not water alone. Drink plenty of water AND replace your electrolytes. Generally speaking, electrolytes, like potassium, calcium and magnesium, help keep water in your body working in the right places, not just flushing out your system. Electrolytes are found in everyday foods like bananas, oranges, bran, tomatoes, carrots,

Recovery and Timing of Fuel Begin Experimenting

Nutrition is what you eat, and also when you eat it. There are windows of optimal periods in which to take in food to speed metabolism, and prepare or repair your body.

During exercise, your muscles experience load, leading to micro tears in the fibers. There is a 15-45 minute window of recovery after a workout, where you should be eating and drinking to restore a 3:1 ratio of carbs to protein. This helps your muscles to be ready to work the following day.

There is a big difference between electrolyte drinks and recovery drinks. Electrolyte drinks help hydrate, while recovery drinks will have amino acids (protein) to help your muscles You should be drinking a recovery drink between 15-45 minutes for maximum effect. After 45 minutes your cells are starving and don’t absorb as much.

After practice, start with a recovery drink, then eat a meal of lean protein, whole grains, and lots of fresh, raw fruits and

Liz Elliott

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vegetables when you get home.

Eating right every day, with a mix of lean protein, good carbohydrates including lots of vegetables, and essential fats, as well as timing your fuels during and after a race, will help train your body to burn fat as fuel. That is the ultimate goal.

Your body contains about three days of fat as fuel, and about one hour of carbohydrates. This is why you must eat about 100-300 calories per hour — depending on your body weight, height, gender and fitness — during a race.

Go to Sports Basement, or your favorite local all-inclusive sports store, and buy a variety of different food items to try right before and during your workout. Go for the least processed foods, but with the understanding that sports foods are processed and packaged for training and racing.

Begin a practice with eating something 15 minutes before — something with quick sugars, easily digestible, and about 100 calories — like a Gu or gel. Then take in about 100-250 calories of food every hour.

Eat before you are hungry and drink before you are thirsty.

If you are hungry or thirsty, it’s already too late. ✪ Liz Elliott is the head coach of the Tri-Valley Triathlon Club based in Dublin. Liz specializes in preparing beginner triathletes for their first triathlon or set of triathlons. Contact her at liz@trivalleytriclub.com. Find the first three installments of TriSteps in issues #28, 31 and 33. All can be accessed at www.SportStarsOnline.com.

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The goals of Natalie Riddering and the El Camino-Sacramento volleyball team don’t stop at another section crown 24

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F

or some, success brings satisfaction. But, for others like Natalie Riddering and the El Camino girls volleyball team, success brings only a strong desire to achieve more.

Despite having played in the Sac-Joaquin Section Division II final each of the last two years, and having won the 2009 championship, the Eagles set their sights even higher for a 2011 postseason that began Nov. 8.

“Our goal as a team is to get past the first round of NorCals,” said Riddering, a senior captain for El Camino. “Not that we are looking past the section playoffs or taking anything for granted, but we have never gotten past the first round of NorCals and we want to accomplish that.”

As a sophomore in 2009, Riddering enjoyed immediate success in her first year on the Eagles’ varsity team.

She played a major role in the team’s championship run (El Camino defeated St. Mary’s-Stockton 3-0 to win the Div. II title) with 382 kills and 152 digs, and helped establish herself and the program among the best the section had to offer.

One year later, El Camino piled up wins and advanced to the section final, but fell to a strong Rocklin team fueled by a junior duo of outside hitters Katelyn Ivy and Cailyn Prewitt. As a junior, Riddering, also an outside hitter, led the section with 588 kills and was fourth with a 44.1 hitting percentage while earning All-Section honors and the Capital Athletic League Most Valuable Player award.

For Riddering and the Eagles, getting to the California Interscholastic Federation NorCal tournament hasn’t been a problem. It’s prolonging their stay.

In 2009, the SJS champion Eagles hosted North Coast Section runner-up Drake-San Anselmo, but lost 3-1 in the opening round of the NorCals. Last year, the Eagles had to travel to Oakland to play NCS champion Bishop O’Dowd, where they were swept out of the NorCals by the Dragons.

In 2010, El Camino finished with an impressive 37-6 record, but the Eagles suffered two of their losses consecutively to end the season. Closing a season like that left a bad taste in the mouths of the Eagles and motivated the players returning for the 2011 season.

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Natalie Riddering (8) and the rest of the El Camino Eagles opened the Sac-Joaquin Section Division II playoffs on Nov. 8 as the No. 1 seed. The team reached the Division II finals a year ago and lost to Rocklin, which happens to be the No. 2 seed in this year’s tournament.

“It was a tough loss,” Riddering said of the section final against Rocklin, “But it really lit the fire in our guts for this season. It really motivated us to bring in the underclassmen and be a truly united team ready to play every match. We worked our butts off all season long and I am really excited about the playoffs.”

But Rocklin and its hitting duo of Ivy and Prewitt aren’t far away.

The Thunder owns the No. 2 seed, and is plotting a collision course with El Camino from the other side of the bracket. The SJS championship match is set for 8 p.m. on Nov. 17 at UC Davis.

Rocklin coach Dave Muscarella has faced or seen most of the playoff field and views Riddering and El Camino as deserving favorites in a crowded field of potential champions.

“Natalie is an outstanding player that has done a great job leading her team all year,” Muscarella said. “I think that we are one of the top teams (in Division II), but I think Ponderosa, Del Oro, Rio Americano, and Bella Vista are all teams that can play with anybody. I would not look past them.”

The Eagles’ hard work this year has resulted in a 31-3 record and a perfect 15-0 mark in the CAL. El Camino took on area nonleague heavyweights such as Rocklin, St. FrancisSacramento, and Ponderosa-Shingle Springs, as well as Bay Area power Archbishop Mitty-San Jose in early-season tournaments and still entered league play with just one loss. While the Eagles cruised through their league schedule, they knew that a late-season return engagement with area powers was looming at St. Francis’s Super Eight Tournament.

Riddering and her teammates welcomed the shift back to the intense competition to prepare for the postseason. The tournament, which featured eight of the best programs in Northern California, did bring top-level competition along with a surprising two-game skid for El Camino. The Eagles dropped 2-0 decisions to Bishop O’Dowd and St. Francis (this year’s top seed in the SJS Div. I field).

“It was a wake-up call losing twice in the Super Eight Tournament,” Riddering said. “I think it was good to get a reality check before the playoffs. It just showed us that we need to keep working harder to reach our goals. Since then, we have been working hard on our defense. We have to be focused to face the big hitters that we will see in the postseason.”

Riddering is second in the section with 417 kills this season and fourth in hitting percentage at 42.7, making her one of the biggest hitters in the Division II bracket.

But, there are big hitters throughout the Div. II field. Ponderosa’s Lianna Sybeldon tallied 403 kills at 37 percent hitting.

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There’s also the Rocklin duo of Prewitt (354 kills) and Ivy (260 kills); Rio Americano is seeded 11th and has its own pair of hitters in Maddie Cannon (296 kills, 52.2 percent) and Lindsey Bowles (265 kills); and No. 6 seed River Valley’s Taylor Massengale has recorded 278 kills. In all, seven of the Section’s top hitters (based on number of kills) will be showcased in the Div. II playoffs.

While Riddering gets the majority of the kills and attention from opponents, the Eagles have plenty of additional talent and experience to help them in the pursuit of their section and NorCal goals. El Camino has six seniors on the roster, most of whom have logged postseason action. Middle hitters Nicole Hareland (165 kills, 32.4 percent) and Megan Lunger (124 kills) provide pop, and junior Cassidy Denny had a breakout season with 177 kills.

Experience has carried the Eagles this season, but the facilitator of all of the action is a freshman.

A newcomer on the court, setter Devin Herenda was no stranger to many of the upper classmen at the start of the season. Devin’s older sister, Bridget, was El Camino’s setter before graduating last year, so the latest Herenda was familiar with the team and its offensive scheme before officially setting foot on the court. Thus far, Herenda was dished out 812 assists (10.3 per game) and recorded 63 kills (50.8 percent hitting), 133 digs, and 23 service aces.

“She knew the place that she was coming in to fill and understood the system because she came around practice last year and was able to learn a lot about the team from her sister,” Riddering said of the younger Herenda. “She is always looking to learn and get better, and has been great at taking constructive criticism.”

In losing just three matches, there may not be much criticism of the Eagles’ play, but the team remains focused on improving and making sure that they are at their peak in the postseason. The team’s statistical and emotional leader, Riddering understands the regular season means little more than the top seed El Camino earned.

She wants to ensure that the Eagles keep their sights set on their goals.

“I see myself as a motivator that keeps everyone positive and ready to work,” Riddering said. “Everyone on this team knows each other’s jobs and capabilities, and can step in and step up to help out the team if anyone needs a lift.”

Riddering shouldn’t need to do much motivating after the postseason gets rolling. “We are still focused on sections and know that we need to play our best,” she said.

Just don’t expect them to be satisfied. Not yet. ✪ Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsOnline.com

A glance at the Sac-Joaquin Section Div. I-IV playoff fields by Jim McCue

St. Francis-Sacramento coach alynn wright Andy Alfaro/Sacramento Bee/Zumapress.com

Division I

TOP SEEDS: St. Francis-Sacramento (33-5), Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills (19-11), St. Mary’s-Stockton (22-8), Granite Bay (22-7), Napa (30-8) THE FAVORITE: St. Francis has won 22 straight matches entering the postseason, including an impressive run to the Super 8 Tournament title where the Troubadours did not drop a single set against some of Sacramento’s top programs. Junior outside hitters Gabriella Palmeri and Allie Wegener lead a powerful offense with more than 300 kills each.

THE BRACKETBUSTER: Napa is battletested with tournament experience against the top SJS and Bay Area teams.

Senior Emily Laskelle is a dangerous hitter that could help the Indians make a run at the title.

THE TOP STORYLINE: A rematch of last year’s final is a distinct possibility with St. Francis and St. Mary’s on opposite sides of the bracket. The Troubadours lost the area’s top player in Zoe Nightingale, but last year’s supporting cast of underclassmen has stepped up to put the team on the brink of its 11th section championship.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION: St. Francis d. St. Mary’s 3-0.

Division II

TOP SEEDS: El CaminoSacramento (31-3), Rocklin (30-6), Bella Vista-Fair Oaks (25-8), Del Oro-Loomis (18-10), Ponderosa-Shingle Springs (22-10) THE FAVORITE: El Camino suffered two of its three losses in the recent Super 8 Tournament, but the Eagles’ losses were to Div. I powers St. Francis and Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland.

Cal commit Natalie Riddering is one of six seniors on the team with valuable postseason experience.

THE BRACKETBUSTER: Ponderosa is strong, especially for a 12 seed. Senior hitter Lianna Sybeldon has already eclipsed 400 kills for the season and the Bruins competed with the top two seeds from Div. I (St. Francis and Oak Ridge) in the stacked Delta River League.

THE TOP STORYLINE: Riddering and Rocklin’s Katelyn Ivy are two of the area’s top players and could showcase their talents in the bracket to create an individual battle in the final.

Beyond the individual stats, Riddering is seeking a third consecutive trip to the final and a second title. Her Eagles took the crown in 2009 before falling to Ivy’s Thunder last year.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION: El Camino d.

Rocklin 3-2.

Division III

Caroline Sipiora, Vista del Lago James K. Leash

TOP SEEDS: Christian Brothers-Sacramento (24-11), Vista del Lago-Folsom (31-9), RosemontSacramento (21-4), Oakdale (19-4), Placer-Auburn (18-8) THE FAVORITE: Vista del Lago is riding a 13-game winning streak that included a sweep of Union Mine-El Dorado to claim a share of the Sierra Valley Conference. The Eagles are following a similar path to last year when they rode a young lineup to a surprising SJS title, but they will not enjoy the underdog status they had in 2010.

THE BRACKETBUSTER: A sneaky No. 6 seed, Placer may be young enough to play loose and create havoc in the bracket. The Hillmen used a balanced offensive attack led by junior Kirstin Schauble and sophomore Becky Matthews to take second place in the Pioneer Valley League.

Plus, they played a strong enough nonleague schedule to gain valuable experience against quality competition.

THE TOP STORYLINE: Christian Brothers quietly earned the top seed on the strength of big hitters Iris Anderson (228 kills) and Else Buchmiller (214 kills), but the Falcons may not have the seasoning and experience necessary to claim the title. Vista del Lago faced stiff competition throughout the season in preparation for another postseason run.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION: Vista del Lago d. Christian Brothers 3-1.

Division IV

TOP SEEDS: Escalon (22-6), Golden Sierra-Garden Valley (20-13), Mariposa (15-7), Sonora (26-6), Union Mine-El Dorado (24-5) THE FAVORITE: Escalon struggled through a four-game losing skid in September, but rebounded with a 15 game winning streak that it carries into the postseason. A junior-dominated lineup faced bigger and stronger teams in tournament play, and the Cougars hope to rely on that preparation.

THE BRACKETBUSTER: Union Mine was the Div. III runner-up to Vista del Lago in 2010, and the Diamondbacks earned a share of the league title with Vista in 2011. Standout outside hitter Mikayla Tucker has faced tough competition and playoff pressure, and is capable of getting hot enough to carry Union Mine to another final.

THE TOP STORYLINE: Golden Sierra senior Katie Christner is in search of another shot at a section title. The UC Davis commit has recorded 364 kills and 257 digs in 2011. She compiled 433 kills and 329 digs in leading the Grizzlies to the section final a year ago, where they lost to Ripon.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION: Golden Sierra d. Sonora 3-1.

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Red Zone

Just run, baby: With air attacks being all the rage, Vacaville sticks to basics By jim mccue | Contributor In a time when some football teams seemt to have more uniform variations than running plays, Vacaville football may be considered a throwback to many observers.

The Bulldogs’ offense primarily relies on an unrelenting rushing attack out of their wing-T set, with elaborate spread offensive schemes employed only as a rare change of pace or as a diversionary treat at practice.

It might be called boring or simple, but it is seldom called ineffective.

Vacaville “Our first attack is going to be the run, that’s how it’s always been,” senior offensive lineman John Schupp said. “It works, and we feel like we can run it down anyone’s throat.”

The Bulldogs (8-1 overall, 4-0 in Monticello Empire League play) have left opponents worn down and beaten this season with their powerful running game that has produced 404 rushing yards and 48 points per game. Vacaville is on pace to have two running backs eclipse the 1,000-yard mark while five more ball carriers already have more than 200 yards on the ground this season.

“We are real proud of our ground game,” head coach Mike Papadopoulos said. “We have been among the top five rushing teams in the section for the last 8-10 years. That tough ground game and approach just goes with the work ethic of our kids and the community.”

Vacaville’s run-first attack has been a familiar staple for a program that has been a dominant force in the Sac-Joaquin Section for years, including the 38 years that the Bulldogs were coached by local legend (and coach Papadopoulos’s father-in-law), the late Tom Zunino. While many programs have appealed to young players with the complexities of the spread offense, which often features an empty backfield, Vacaville has stuck to its own winning formula.

“Because of our track record and the success we have had with the running game, it is not a hard sell,” Papadopolous said of getting buy-in from players to stick with their traditional ground game. “With the type of kids we get in our program, they’re all-in with the ground attack.”

Schupp is a bruising 6-foot-5, 240-pound offensive tackle that is a firm believer in the team’s rushing attack. The senior prefers the more aggressive nature of run-blocking schemes to pass protection blocking.

“It’s fun to go after the opponent and get the first lick on them,” he said. “I like to be on the offensive, hit my opponent, and then go from there.”

Schupp and his linemates will never be confused with the famed “Hogs” of Washington Redskins fame or other behemoth offensive lines, but their effectiveness in opening up holes for the team’s stable of running backs in unquestioned.

Papadopoulos points to the brains, rather than the brawn, of his offensive line as the key to the Bulldogs’ success on the ground.

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Darryl Henick

Melvin Mason churns through the Deer Valley-Antioch defense during a 48-21 win on Sept. 30. Mason has been the biggest producer in a relentless Vacaville ground attack. He’s eclipsed 1,300 yards rushing and scored 23 touchdowns through the Bulldogs first 10 games. Vacaville opens the Sac-Joaquin Section Division II playoffs as the No. 4 seed.

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Red Zone We are real proud of our ground game. We have been among the top five rushing teams in the section for the last 8-10 years. That tough ground game and approach just goes with the work ethic of our kids and the community.”

Pieced together, Campo’s offensive line has triumphed

Coach Mike Papadopoulos “We have athletic kids on the line that move well and are smart,” Papadopoulos said. “They can change their blocking assignments based on what they read, and they come back to the huddle and the sidelines with a lot of information that helps us with our schemes and any adjustments we need to make.”

The main benefactor of Vacaville’s line play has been running back Melvin Mason. The senior has piled up 1,317 yards and 23 touchdowns this season while often seeing limited action after the early stages of the Bulldogs’ league victories.

Mason rushed for 1,228 yards last year, and hopes to have plenty of yards left in him this year for a long playoff run.

“We set our goal to go to a state championship game,” Mason said of the Bulldogs’ 2011 aspirations. “We know that we can compete with anybody as long as everyone is giving it 100 percent and we stay focused.”

The Bulldogs suffered a temporary loss of focus (as well as the loss of numerous fumbles) in a 75-6 loss to eventual State champion Folsom in the second round of the SJS Division II playoffs a year ago, but the team and coaching staff believe that they were motivated by that loss and are anxious for the chance to prove themselves in the postseason.

Vacaville opened its 2011 campaign with a challenging nonleague schedule that featured a three-week gauntlet of tests against playoff-caliber teams. The Bulldogs suffered a 33-29 loss to currently undefeated Marin Catholic-Kentfield in Week 2, but bounced back to record quality wins over Div. I juggernaut Granite Bay (38-27) and South Bay power Valley Christian-San Jose (41-27).

The Bulldogs gained more than 600 yards against Marin Catholic, including 576 rushing yards, but fell to the Wildcats because they lost the turnover battle. Against Valley Christian, Vacaville was able to avenge a 48-7 loss to the Warriors in 2010.

After being battle-tested early, the Bulldogs have had little trouble cruising through MEL action where they have outscored league foes 217-57 in four wins thus far.

While Mason and Curtis Goins (948 yards, 10 TD) have rested more than rushed in MEL play, the duo will likely have plenty of opportunities to carry the offensive load in the playoffs.

“It feels like it’s a realistic goal this year to win section,” Papadopoulos said of the Bulldogs’ chances of winning their first Sac-Joaquin crown since 2007. “I think we have an honest shot based on what we’ve seen and who we’ve played.”

How far Vacaville goes in the playoffs is a question left to be answered. But the method by which the Bulldogs will attempt to do so is a foregone conclusion. ✪

The success of Campolindo’s offensive line this season has been remarkable considering the patch-work nature in which it was constructed.

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Bob Larson

Undersized, inexperienced and out of position: Meet the 2011 Campolindo offensive line.

The Cougars, who went 5-6 in 2010, saw their entire starting front five graduate at the end of the last school year, and had precious little in the way of a depth chart up front to begin with.

So they entered the 2011 season with a patchwork, repurposed bunch, a lot of effort, and more than a fair amount of hope.

The result?

Well, with a convincing 31-22 win over bruising Las Lomas on Nov. 4, the Cougars put the finishing touches on their first Diablo Foothill Athletic League crown since 2008, not to mention a 10-0, 6-0 regular-season run that exactly NOBODY saw coming.

“I don’t know how we got here,” Campolindo coach Kevin Macy said. “Nobody in their right mind would have thought this team could go undefeated.”

If you’re an East Bay fan, you likely already know some of Campolindo’s big names: quarterback Brett Stephens (who tossed and ran the Cougars to a nearly 40-point-per-game average),

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Red Zone

All records through Nov. 5 Rank (Last Wk.) School........................ Record 1 (1) De La Salle-Concord....................... 8-1 2 (2) Bellarmine-San Jose....................... 8-1 3 (3) Buhach Colony-Atwater.................. 10-0 4 (4) Pleasant Grove-Elk Grove.............. 9-1 5 (5) Lincoln-Stockton.............................. 9-1 6 (6) Elk Grove......................................... 10-0 7 (7) Del Oro-Loomis............................... 9-1 8 (8) Grant-Sacramento........................... 7-3 9 (9) Folsom............................................. 9-1 10 (10) Marin Catholic-Kentfield.................. 9-0 11 (11) Vacaville........................................... 9-1 12 (12) Cardinal Newman-Santa Rosa....... 8-0-1 13 (13) Palma-Salinas................................. 8-0-1 14 (14) James Logan-Union City................ 9-0 15 (15) Escalon............................................ 10-0 16 (16) Granite Bay...................................... 8-2 17 (17) St. Mary’s-Stockton......................... 8-2 18 (20) San Ramon Valley-Danville............ 8-1 19 (19) Oakdale............................................ 10-0 20 (NR) Windsor............................................ 9-0

Facts-Figures-Fallout DROPPED OUT: No. 18 Leland (Lost to Oak Grove-San Jose 40-24 on Nov. 4) BIGGEST MOVER: Very little shifting this week as the Top 17 teams all took care of business.

Windsor finally breaks into the rankings after a 14-7 Sonoma County League title-clinching win over Casa Grande-Petaluma on Nov. 4.

TOTAL TEAMS STILL RANKED FROM PRESEASON TOP 20: 12 KNOCKING AT THE DOOR: Oak Grove-San Jose (8-1), Freedom-Oakley (8-1), Serra-San Mateo (7-2), Campolindo-Moraga (10-0) SMALL SCHOOL TOP 5 (600 enrollment cutoff): 1. Le Grand (10-0), Central CatholicModesto (8-2), 3. Salesian-Richmond (9-0), 4. Bradshaw Christian-Sacramento (9-1), 5.

Ferndale (8-1). rankings updated every wednesday at www.Sportstarsonline.com

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all-everything wideout and defensive back Griffin Piatt, scrappy tailback Reiner Ebarle, punishing linebacker and tight end Vince Graziano.

But none of those guys really get the opportunity to do the magical things they’ve done this year without the nameless, selfless ones up front.

Senior left tackle Tim Meier anchors the group. He was strictly a defensive lineman last year. Center Wesley Brumbaugh, left guard Greg Wiessler and right tackle CJ Toohey, all juniors, played junior varsity in 2010. Right guard Danny Fox played JV last year, too. At linebacker.

“We had no returners,” Macy said. “Zero kids who took a snap on the offensive line last year. We just had a couple of guys with JV experience. But they’ve really held together. It’s one of our quiet stories of the year.”

The enormous Las Lomas defensive front dwarfed the diminutive Campolindo crew. And yet, with the undefeated season and the league title on the line, the Cougars did what they’ve done all year.

“They’re just hanging in and fighting,” Macy said. “There’s not much more we can ask them to do. …There’s not a lot of size. It was a big, physical league this year, and we were the smallest. Every game.”

The improbable ones managed to keep Stephens upright all game against Las Lomas — no mean feat — and helped the Cougars to nearly 400 yards of total offense.

“They were unbelievable,” Stephens said. “They’ve worked so hard.

They’re a funky unit, but they work together and communicate. They’re the story of our season: Keep fighting, keep working, never stop.”

Colfax, Lincoln do not go gently

Neither sleet, nor lightning nor doom of night – even a pitch black night without lights — could keep Colfax High School’s football team from finishing the 2011 regular season unbeaten.

On Oct. 28, the Falcons (10-0) looked like the might have a entered the postseason missing a game – or even with a forfeit loss – but thanks to the will and flexibility of school personnel, their game with long-time rival Lincoln was saved.

And Colfax — as it made habit most of the season — pulled off a lopsided victory, 56-14 on a night not soon forgotten around these parts.

A game that started at Colfax at 7:30 p.m and ended one minute short of midnight in Lincoln.

Talk about a long-distance victory.

“I know I’ve never been a part of anything like it before,” Colfax athletic director Rob Hitchcock said. “And I truly doubt I ever will again.”

The problem on this night was a power outage, a stage four PG&E special in Colfax, slamming the lights pitch black on the then home team’s 13-0 lead with 4:07 left in the first quarter at approximately 8 p.m.

The 2,500 fans in attendance literally gasped — some screamed, Hitchcock said — because the stadium literally went black.

“It was pretty scary,” Hitchcock said. “Especially a couple days from Halloween. We were worried someone was playing a prank.”

Once dim emergency lights provided a glow, calmer minds and administrators joined forces to come up with a plan. They considered to wait for the lights to take full effect — estimated at 10:30 p.m. They considered postponing until Saturday and Monday, but youth leagues had obligations and no one wanted to play on Halloween. That’s when a forfeit was talked about.

Finally, Lincoln athletic director Donna Tofft suggested hightailing down Highway 80 and finishing the game off in Lincoln. No one was using the field.

So roughly 1,000 from the game, entered an assortment of vehicles and made the 45 minute drive. The game was resumed at 10:30 p.m. and finished off – with a running clock because of the lopsided score – and Colfax’s perfect, unscathed season remained in check.

When Ben Rooker booted home an extra point extending Colfax’s lead to 14-0, the game resumed. Hitchcock assumed a high school record had been broken. “Longest elapsed time between a touchdown and extra point,” he said.

Colfax, a CIF State Bowl contender, would score much more rapidly over the next hour en route to its ninth straight win without a loss. ✪ — Bill Kolb and Mitch Stephens

Sideline Soundbite

“The thing is, we didn’t actually tell anybody that I was going to do that, so the fake would be better. Nobody else on the offense knew, Coach told me to keep it, and I didn’t tell anyone else so they’d run the fake right.”

— Campolindo-Moraga quarterback Brett Stephens on a naked bootleg play that resulted in a touchdown during the Cougars’ 31-22 win atr Las Lomas-Walnut Creek on Nov. 4.

Outside the box (score)

While the Concord High football team came up short in a 31-22 loss to College Park-Pleasant Hill on Nov. 4, the Minutemen offense still may have come away with the stat of the game. In a shocking display of clutch efficiency, Concord went 6-for-7 in converting 4th-down attempts.

Furthermore, all three touchdown passes

by Wyatt Morrow, below, came on 4th-andgoals.

Philip Walton

The Best Of Times

If you every played high school sports, and those days are behind you (which describes everyone at SportStars HQ), we’re pretty sure you’ve sat around with your former teammates and talked about lacing up the sneakers or putting the pads on one more time. Well for the football alumni of Liberty-Brentwood and Freedom-Oakley, it’s happening. A full-contact football game between alumni of all ages will take place at Falcons Stadium on the Freedom campus on Nov. 11 at 6 p.m. The event, put on and fully-funded and administrated

by Alumni Athletics USA, will act as a fundraiser for both schools. SportStars will be on hand to see these brutes relive their glory days. Stop by, pick up a magazine and sign up for our iPad2 giveaway. For more information on these type of games, visit www.alumniathleticsusa.com.

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsOnline.com

impulse

Stop! Gamer Time!

Welcome to Impulse, your one-stop shop for gadgets, gizmos and gear. Compiled by staff writer Erik Stordahl, Impulse provides you with what’s currently hot on the market. This week, we get our video game nerd on and preview the treasure trove of games recently released or are coming out this month. There’s a downright filthy lineup of games being released soon and we’re here to cover the best of the ’em.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

(PC, PS3, Xbox 360; Nov. 8) Does it get any bigger than MW3? The renowned FPS unleashes its latest chapter in the revolutionary franchise. Grab a controller and suit up for a wild ride of graphics, sounds and visuals so intense, you’ll think you’re actually out in battle. Don’t worry, sooner or later you’ll realize you’re just sitting six inches from the TV screen in the comfort of your parents’ living room. Or not.

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

(PS3, Xbox 360; in stores now) If MW3 is the biggest game, this one comes mighty close. Embody the character of Nathan Drake and continue to battle mercenaries and other bad dudes in his latest adventure.

When you finish the epic campaign, gear up for a gnarly multiplayer where you can square off against your mad chill bros at your place or online. We suggest taking it easy on them at first then blasting them when they least expect it. It’s better that way.

(Wii; Nov. 20) Link is back after a five year hiatus for what promises to be a more-than-worthy addition to one of the most storied video game franchises ever. Travel through new breathtaking landscapes while saving the princess YET AGAIN. This is rumored to have 50-100 hours of gameplay. That. Is. CRAZY. We’re sure your parents and teachers will totally understand you staying home from school to keep playing.

Battlefield 3

(PC, PS3, Xbox 360; in stores now) We’ll be honest: it looks crazy similar to just about everything from the Call of Duty franchise, but we say that’s definitely not a bad thing. Take down more bad dudes and the like, whether it’s in the campaign or multiplayer.

The latter promises to be nothing but quality.

Need for Speed: The run

(PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii; Nov. 15) For those of you without a driver’s license and are itching for the next best thing, pick up a copy of the new Need for Speed. Travel at uber-fast speeds to unlock cool cars and tracks. Just don’t get a speeding ticket.

Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary

(Xbox 360; Nov. 15) The one that started it all is getting a makeover. Take on the Elite in a refined campaign with updated graphics and new villains. Then throw down with your friends in the revamped and brand-spankin’ new multiplayer maps. You can never go wrong with Master Chief and this one should be good to the last second.

Batman: Arkham City

(PS3, Xbox 360: in stores now) No, this isn’t the title of the next movie. It IS, however, a superb entry to the video game series. This one’s got loads of secrets hidden throughout, so the game will keep you entertained for hours upon end. You’ll be playing this one for hours on end for sure.

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Don’t get sucked into the three myths of speed training How do young athletes develop speed, quickness and agility?

Unfortunately, they need to do it the slow, old-fashioned way. They can play with ladders and bungee cords all they want, but that is like putting mag wheels on an Escort.

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very day I get emails and phone calls from parents, and more often than not these questions fall under the same categories. So I put together this list of the Top 3 Speed Training Myths that I get asked about most often.

If any of these myths are a part of your young athlete’s training, you need to make an immediate change.

1. There is a magic drill for increasing speed.

This is the myth that developing speed and agility is not a process of gaining strength and power, but rather the lack of a specific drill. The reality is it comes down to horsepower and the nervous system, two areas that change slowly over time.

How do young athletes develop speed, quickness and agility? Unfortunately, they need to do it the slow, old-fashioned way. They can play with ladders and bungee cords all they want, but that is like putting mag wheels on an Escort. The key is to increase the horsepower, the brakes, and the accelerator by getting stronger legs.

Think about it this way: If you stand at the starting line and take a quick first step but fail to

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push with the back leg, you don’t go anywhere. The reality is that a quick first step is actually the result of a powerful first push. Lower body strength is the real cure for slow feet and the real key to speed and to agility. The essence of developing speed lies in single-leg strength and single-leg stability work such as landing skills. If they can’t decelerate, they cannot accelerate, at least not more than once.

2. Interval training is the same as speed training.

Running repeat 100s, 200s and so forth will not improve top speeds.

Even running repeat 40s with short recovery will not improve acceleration and top speeds. Speed work is defined at 2-8 seconds of maximum-intensity running with full recovery.

That means at least two minutes of light dynamic movement between each effort. This goes against the experience of some coaches, but simply put, is the only way to improve speed. An athlete must be able to focus on proper form and maintain intensity in order to get faster.

3 . Lift your knees.

I hear so many parents and coaches yelling to

Training Time Tim Rudd for IYCA

their kids when they want them to run faster, ‘Lift your knees. Get your knees up’. This is one of the most backwards cues given to athletes. The way to run faster is to apply more force to the ground.

Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.

So the more force you apply to the ground, the more the ground will give back.

When athletes are told to lift their knees, we’re telling them to use their hip flexors to lift instead of their glutes and hamstrings to drive down.

It is critical to learn proper form early and get an advantage over those who still aren’t getting the best instruction. Young athletes must be cued to step over the opposite knee and drive the foot down into the ground, with the foot landing underneath the hip.

Your athletes are being held back from reaching their full potential if even one of these myths has penetrated into their training program. So hopefully your young athletes are not still being victimized by these outdated training philosophies. ✪ Tim Rudd is an International Youth Conditioning Association specialist in youth conditioning (level 3), speed and agility (level 2), and nutrition specialist (level 1). For more information on anything you read in Training Time, email him at tim@ fit2thecore.com.

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsOnline.com

camps + clinics BASEBALL/SOFTBALL Golden Era Baseball Based in the East Bay, we offer several instructional-based programs as well as 9U thru 18U Club Teams. We are currently taking sign-ups for our Hitting Classes.

Please see our website for full details: www.

GoldenEraBaseball.com.

The Pitching Center We develop baseball players to their full potential. The Pitching Center has grown to become the Total Player Center (TPC), a full service baseball and softball training academy.

Age- and skill-specific programs are available for students ages 8-high school. Info: 925-416-1600, www.thepitchingcenter. com.

SportForm Based in Concord, SportForm provides individual and team instruction in baseball, softball, lacrosse.

Highly trained professionals provide accelerated and advanced skills clinics. Prepare to Perform! Info: 925-459-2880.

All American Softball Girls of all ages welcome. Check into our six-week softball improvement program for all ages. Info: 916-3741907, www.softballschool.com.

BASKETBALL Bladium Triple Threat Academy Alameda’s Bladium Sports & Fitness Club hosts multiple hoops camps for ages 6-12. Designed for players of ALL skill levels. Registration: AlamedaSales@bladium.com, 510-8144999; www.bladium.com.

Mike Allen Sports Learn the basics of basketball, sharpen your skills and improve daily at the Ballin’ Ambassadors basketball

clinics! Hosted by MIke Allen Sports in the South Bay, registration is easy. Go to www.mikeallensports.com to reserve your spot. 408-279-4123.

CHEER CheerGyms.com We offer the best clinics in California!

Customize your clinic to fit your needs.

Whether basic stunting techniques or working on twist cradles out of one leg stunts, we take your team to the next level! Info: 866-6857615, www.CheerGyms.com.

East Bay Sports Academy Recreational, competitive athletes benefit from training with the best coaches. Our 10,000-squarefoot facility is clean and bright, with the newest equipment. Info: 925 680-9999, www.

EastBaySportsAcademy.com.

EQUESTRIAN Kelly Maddox Riding Academy Develop new friendships with other horse-crazy kids. Weekly activities include learning horse colors, markings and breeds; art and crafts; a farrier demonstration and human horse show; bareback riding and more! Info: 925-575-4818, www.

KellyMaddoxTraining.com.

Franklin Canyon Stables Based in Martinez, we provide two covered arenas and easy access to trails. Whether beginning rider or experienced equestrian, we have a place for you.

Instruction in horsemanship on the ground and in the saddle, all while having fun. Info: 925-228-1801; www. kimshorsetraining.com/franklin_canyon. html.

Castle Rock Arabians Activities for tweens and teenagers, where we build team

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spirit through various team activities on horseback. Visit the ranch by appointment. Info: 925-933-3701, www. castlerockarabians.com.

Earthquake Arabians Fall and Christmas Break camps are around the corner for Earthquake Arabians! Horsin’ Around Fall Camp: Nov. 2123. Christmas Break Camps: Dec. 19-23 and Dec. 26-30.

Registration is OPEN. Log on to www. earthquakearabians.com for more info.

925-360-7454.

FITNESS Aspire Pilates Dramatically increase core strength, power, flexibility, balance, focus and joint stability, while preventing injury. Aspire prides itself on helping propel athletes to the next level by addressing muscular imbalances, helping athletes increase body awareness, correcting faulty body mechanics, and accessing untapped strength. Info: 925-680-4400, www.

AspirePilatesCenter.com.

Fit 2 The Core As a Youth Conditioning, Speed/Agility and Nutrition Specialist with the IYCA, Fit 2 The Core Training Systems Boot Camps offer an innovative approach to getting young athletes back on the field postrehabilitation, and continuing the process by progressing their bodies to handle what they must endure on the field or court. Info: 925-639-0907, http:// f2cbootcamps.com.

TransForm FX At TransForm FX Fitness Boot Camp, we believe that parents can take better care of their kids when they take care of their own health and fitness. This is the reason

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camps + clinics we have designed our adult fitness boot camp workouts to fit your busy lifestyle.

Each boot camp workout is carefully designed to help you burn fat and increase your cardiovascular endurance in less time. Info: 925-289-8042; www. transformfxfitness.com.

Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness We offer more than 70 group classes per week. Members also enjoy our heated pool, sauna, spa and steam room. Massage, skincare and chiropractic services are available. Call us today for your free one week pass! Info: 925-932-6400, www.wcsf.net.

ENRICHMENT Dianne Adair Enrichment Programs We offer a wide variety of enrichment programs for your child during the school year. Activities include: Homework help, 4th & Up Club, art and crafts, science, sports and games. Info: www. dianneadair.org.

E.Nopi and Palm Academy Concentration is on early literacy, critical thinking, problem solving, social understanding, physical coordination, creativity, cooperation and self control.

Programs serve children from infancy to preschool, kindergarten, and through 12th grade. Students learn at their own pace. Locations: Fremont, 510-9799794; Newark (E.Nopi), 510-793-6674; Pleasanton, 925-461-6284.

FUZE Fit For A Kid! FUZE is a privately-held, DOJ-certified, youth-only health club and curricula modeled after the principles of the Positive Coaching Alliance. FUZE enhances athletic development,

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socialization and self-esteem. Info: 408358-7529; www.fuzefit.com.

GOLF Dave DeLong Junior Golf Camp For advanced and beginning junior golfers, and designed for golfers 7-15.

Camps include a 4 to 1 ratio of students to teachers. Safety is top priority, as are player development and enjoyment.

Boundary Oak Golf Course, Walnut Creek. Info: 925-997-3683; www. delonggolf.com.

Coach Rick Golf Learn to play on the course, where it matters. Golfers of all ages can sign up.

For more info, call 510-917-6442; www.

ThePersonalGolfCoach.com.

The First Tee - Contra Costa The First Tee is a youth development program for boys and girls 7-18.

Participants learn about golf and life skills and values inherent to the game, rules and etiquette.

Instruction occurs at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Info: 925-686-6262, Ext. 0, angela@thefirstteecontracosta. org; www.thefirstteecontracosta.org.

The First Tee - Oakland The First Tee of Oakland has delivered The First Tee Life Skills Experience to more than 262 participants.

Each receives a minimum of 12 hours of instruction over an 8-week period.

Instruction is at three Oakland courses: Metropolitan Golf Links, Lake Chabot GC and Montclair GC. Info: 510-3522002; www.thefirstteeoakland.org.

The First Tee - San Jose

The First Tee of San Jose develops youth throughout Silicon Valley, through the game of golf.

Participants learn to appreciate diversity, resolve conflicts, build confidence and set goals. We welcome participants ranging from second to 12th grade.

Scholarships available. Info: 408-2882973; www.thefirstteesanjose.org.

The First Tee - Tri-Valley The First Tee of the Tri-Valley offers The First Tee Life Skills Experience Classes seasonally, for ages 7-17, at the Pleasanton Golf Center on the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Info: 925-462-7201, www.

TheFirstTeeTriValley.org.

LACROSSE Atherton Lacrosse Our lacrosse camps are designed for boys and girls ages 5-14, who are beginner or intermediate players.

Our group of coaches and staff are leaders in the lacrosse community. Info: 888-526-3330, www.

AthertonLacrosse.com.

Sportform Based in Concord, Sportform provides individual and team instruction in baseball, softball and lacrosse.

Highly trained professionals provide accelerated and advanced skills clinics.

Prepare to Perform! Info: 925-459-2880, www.sportform.co.

MARTIAL ARTS United States Karate Systems USKS offers adult and

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsOnline.com

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camps + clinics children’s programs, kickboxing fitness, mixed martial arts. Providing excellence in martial arts instruction and services for the entire family. 925-682-9517; www. usksmartialarts.com.

MOTORSPORTS Keigwins@theTrack We conduct motorcycle schools and practice events (“track days”) in the West at famous race tracks. For experienced motorcyclists looking to improve skills and build confidence. Riders provide their own motorcycles and protective gear. Keigwins@ theTrack takes care of everything else. Info: www.keigwin.com; 650-949-5609.

Umigo You’ll learn passing techniques, cornering techniques, throttle & breaking techniques, advance seat position, kart operation, kart control, real racing, and improving your lap times. Racers must be at least 10 years old and at least four feet, 10 inches tall. Two- and four-day camps are available. Info: www. umigoracing.com.

OUTDOOR SPORTS Bear Valley Mountain Soccer, Archery, Tennis, Climbing, Cycling ... If there’s an outdoor activity

you enjoy, there’s a good chance you can do it Bear Valley. Info: www.bearvalley.com.

University of Surfing Instructor Matt Cole offers lessons/camps in Pacifica. 650-359-1425, mattcolesurfs@ hotmail.com; www.universityofsurfing.com.

SOCCER Heritage Soccer Club The Pleasant Hill/Martinez-based competitive soccer club welcomes players ages 8-18. Topflight coaching staff with experience spanning years in the high school and college ranks teach new skills and help hone existing ones. Info: www.heritagesc.com.

SWIMMING/DIVING Walnut Creek Swim Club WCSC is a recreational team, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Led by the experience of coach Brad Hoy, the staff is the finest in the area. WCSC believes in finding the healthy balance between competition and family fun. Sponsored by the City of Walnut Creek, Info: 925-766-5664, www.walnutcreekswimclub.org.

Sherman Swim School We are a Lafayette swimming and diving school celebrating our 50th year. Our yearround schedule allows children and adults to

learn, retain, and improve their swim skills with little interruption. Info: 925-283-2100, www.ShermanSwim.com.

VOLLEYBALL Pacific Rim Volleyball We offer several skill-based camps and clinics, including setting camp, hitting camp and an all-skills camp. Campers will be evaluated and placed in a group that challenges their level of play. Registration for beach volleyball is going on now as well. Info: www. pacificrimvolleyball.com.

U.S. Youth Volleyball League We’re the leader in developing and maintaining youth volleyball leagues for boys and girls ages 7-15. With an emphasis on positive reinforcement, we seek to build confidence and self-esteem in each child. Info: 1-888-988-7985; www.

USYVL.org.

MULTI-SPORT City of Concord Skyhawks Sports Skyhawks Sports and Concord teamed up to provide safe, fun, skills-focused sports camps for ages 4-12. Camps range from soccer to lacrosse to our popular multi-sport camp (soccer, basketball, and baseball) in one camp. Info: 925-671-3404; www.concordreg. org.

Advertiser Index ❒❒ A A A Northern California, Nevada & Utah..................10 ❒❒ Aabco Printing..........................................................34 ❒❒ America’s Navy.............................................................4 ❒❒ Army National Guard Recruiter.....................................7 ❒❒ Aspire Pilates Center..................................................34 ❒❒ Back Forty B B Q.........................................................19 ❒❒ Big O Tires....................................................................2 ❒❒ Cheer Gyms................................................................26 ❒❒ Club Sport Renaisssance ............................................32 ❒❒ Community Youth Center...........................................34 ❒❒ Crowne Plaza.............................................................33 ❒❒ Diablo Car Wash & Detail Center.................................33 ❒❒ Diablo Rock Gym........................................................36 ❒❒ Diablo Trophies & Awards...........................................36 ❒❒ Diablo Youth Rugby....................................................35 ❒❒ E Teamsponsor...........................................................39 ❒❒ Earthquake Arabians..................................................21 ❒❒ East Bay Sports Academy...........................................16 ❒❒ Excellence In Sport Performance................................29 ❒❒ Fit 2 The Core..............................................................19 ❒❒ Heavenly Greens.................................................. 40/22 ❒❒ Home Team Sports Photography................................33 ❒❒ Jory’s Flowers.............................................................21 ❒❒ Kaiser Permanente.....................................................13 ❒❒ Kinders B B Q................................................................3 ❒❒ Lone Tree Golf Course.................................................21 ❒❒ Mc Coveys..................................................................17 ❒❒ Mike Allen Sports.........................................................5 ❒❒ Mountain Mike’s Pizza................................................12 ❒❒ Niles Personal Fitness.................................................36 ❒❒ Rocco’s Pizza...............................................................36 ❒❒ Rockin Jump...............................................................18 ❒❒ Scandia Family Fun Center.........................................12 ❒❒ Simply Selling Shirts..................................................36 ❒❒ Sports Stars Magazine................................................37 ❒❒ Sutter Urgent Care......................................................40 ❒❒ The Mt. Diablo Memory Center Sport Concussion Program.........................................33 ❒❒ Unflappable: The Whitney Reed Story........................34 ❒❒ Usks Concord.............................................................34 ❒❒ Velocity Sports Performance......................................36 ❒❒ Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness....................................23

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Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsOnline.com

*Name____________________________________________________________ Address (optional) _____________________________________________________________ *City/State ___________________________ *Zip______________ Phone (optional) __________________ E-mail: _______________________________________________ Check the most appropriate option for each. All information held in confidence Are you: ❏ Female ❏ Male ❏ Married ❏ Single ❏ Age 12 or below ❏ 13 to 19 ❏ 36 to 45 ❏ 20 to 25 ❏ 46 to 55 ❏ 26 to 35 ❏ Over 55 ❏ Student ❏ Full-time employed ❏ Part-time employed ❏ Self-employed ❏ Not employed ❏ Retired Number of people living in your home: Male: Age(s) __ / __ / __ / __ / __ Female: Age(s) __ / __ / __ / __ / __

Home ownership: ❏ I own my home ❏ I rent/lease ❏ I live with my parents Education: ❏ Pre High School ❏ In High School ❏ High School Grad ❏ Some College ❏ College Grad ❏ Post annual household income ❏ Less than $35,000 ❏ $35,001 to $50 000 ❏ $50,001 to $75,000 ❏ $75,001 - $100,000 ❏ $100,001 - $150,000 ❏ above $150,000 Do you own: A mobile/smart phone? ❏ No ❏ One ❏ Two or more A credit card? ❏ No ❏ One ❏ Two or more A laptop/tablet? ❏ No ❏ One ❏ Two or more A car? ❏ No ❏ One ❏ Two or more Social Media Do you use: ❏ Faceboook ❏ Twitter

In which sports do you regularly participate?

Check all that apply ❏ Baseball/Softball ❏ Basketball ❏ Cheer/Gymnastics ❏ Endurance: Swim/ Bike/Run ❏ Equestrian ❏ Football ❏ Golf ❏ Hockey ❏ Lacrosse ❏ Motorsports/BMX/ Skateboarding ❏ Outdoor/Adventure/ Snow board/Ski/ Mountaineering ❏ Rugby ❏ Self Defense/ Wrestling/Fencing ❏ Soccer ❏ Tennis/Racquet sports ❏ Volleyball ❏ Other _____________ Which sports do you watch regularly (check all that apply) High School Sports ❏ In person ❏ On TV Teen League Sports ❏ In person ❏ On TV College Sports ❏ In person ❏ On TV Pro Sports ❏ In person ❏ On TV Jr. Sports (younger than high school) ❏ In person ❏ On TV What other sports publications do you regularly read? ❏ Pro sports magazines ❏ College sports magazines ❏ High School sports magazines ❏ Endurance magazines (swim, bike, run) ❏ Outdoor / Adventure magazines Do you primarily read these magazines: ❏ In print ❏ Online

Do you participate in games or tournaments as a coach? ❏ routinely ❏ somewhat often ❏ occasionally Team Parent? ❏ routinely ❏ somewhat often ❏ occasionally Player? ❏ routinely ❏ somewhat often ❏ occasionally Golf Do you consider yourself an: ❏ avid golfer ❏ Sunday golfer ❏ Occasional golfer How often do you golf? ❏ weekly ❏ monthly ❏ annually How much do you spend per year on Greens Fees $___________ Equipment $___________ Endurance: (Swim, Bike, Run) How often do you participate in Running, Biking &/or Swimming/Diving? ❏ routinely ❏ somewhat often ❏ occasionally Types: ❏ Fun runs (5k/10k) ❏ Marathons ❏ Triathalons About SportStars Magazine Please rank each of the following sections in order with ‘1’ as your favorite, etc...: (rank as many as you can) __ First Pitch (Editors Opening Column) __ Behind the Clipboard (Coaching Advice Column) __ Health Watch (Medical / Health Advice Column) __ Locker Room (Quick & Fun: Rapid Fire/Digits/Top 5) __ Game Day (Breaking Game Coverage) __ AAA SportStars of the Week (Honoring teen athletes) __ Training Time (Training Tips & Techniques) __ Club Scene (News & Coverage of league play) __ Features (In-depth stories on players and teams) __ In the Paint (Basketball Coverage - seasonal) __ Red Zone (Football Coverage - seasonal) __ Extra Bases (Baseball/Softball Coverage - seasonal) __ Tee2Green (Golf) __ TriSTARS (Endurance: Swim/Bike/Run, Outdoor & Adventure) __ Camps & Clinics (Resource) __ Impulse (New Products) __ 24/7 (Events Calendar) __ Photo Finish (Last Page Photo) How often do you read SportStars Magazine? ❏ Every issue ❏ 3 out of every 4 issues ❏ 1 or 2 of every 4 issues How would you classify yourself as a SportStars Magazine reader? ❏ I read it cover to cover ❏ I read most of the articles ❏ I read one or two articles each issue Do you prefer to read SportStars Magazine...

Print Edition ❏ Daily ❏ Every issue ❏ Monthly Internet Edition ❏ Daily ❏ Every issue ❏ Monthly How long do you spend reading each issue: ❏ More than one hour ❏ 30 minutes to one hour ❏ Less than 30 minutes How many others read your copy of SportStars Magazine? ❏ 1 ❏ 2-4 ❏ 5-7 ❏ 8-10 ❏ more than 10

Do you keep your copies for future reference? ❏ Always ❏ Often ❏ Sometimes Where do you pick up your copy of SportStars Magazine? ❏ School ❏ Restaurant ❏ Retail store ❏ Gym/health club ❏ I subscribe ❏ Other Name of location ___________________________________ How often do you visit our website? ❏ Daily ❏ Weekly ❏ Monthly ❏ other Would you say reading SportStars Magazine influences your decision to: ❏ Play sports ❏ Buy sports equipment/goods ❏ Work out/stay healthy ❏ Eat healthy ❏ Watch sports Would you say you use SportStars Magazine to choose: ❏ Where to play sports ❏ Where to watch sports ❏ Where to select a camp or clinic ❏ Other _________________________________________ What subjects do you think there should be more coverage of in SportStars Magazine?

1. _______________________________________________ 2. _______________________________________________ 3. _______________________________________________ Contest ends Dec. 15, 2011. No purchase necessary to win or enter. Return this survey to SportStars Magazine c/o Reader Survey Prize, 5356 Clayton Rd., Ste. 222, Concord, CA 94521 or fax to (925) 566-8507.

Piedmont High’s Emily Hahn, front, leads a pack of runners toward the finish line during the varsity girls race at the Bay Shore Athletic League cross country championships on Nov. 3. PHOTO BY Butch Noble

Want to submit your pic for Photo Finish? Send it to us at editor@SportStarsOnline.com. Photos must be 300 dpi and at least 10 inches wide in the jpeg format.

Please identify every person in the photo and include your contact information.

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SportStars™

November 10, 2011

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