EB Issue 20, 03.24.2011 by Sport Stars Magazine

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full-court madness!

Pacos, DLS pull upset. Pg. 16 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dowd debuts at state. Pg. 20 St. Joes gets redemption. Pg. 21

spikes up! DFAL baseball teams prepare for ultimate grind. Pg. 30 encore! encore! Concord softball tries to one-up itself. Pg. 31

endure | excel | achieve

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travis pacos goes full-out in his new full-time hoops gig. Page 16

Berkeley is just one school that keeps an eye on its legacy. Page 18

First Pitch......................................... 4 Locker Room.................................. 6 Behind the Clipboard.................... 8 Wally’s World.................................. 9 Get Mental..................................... 12 SportStar of the Week................ 13 Club Scene..................................... 14 Health Watch................................ 19 Tee2Green..................................... 25 Extra Bases.................................... 30 Training Time................................. 32 Camps + Clinics........................... 33 Impulse........................................... 37 Photo Finish................................... 38

Austin Rei and families find ways to stay fit by Campolindo are part of a loaded DFAL. working together. Page 30 Page 22

On the cover Berkeley’s Elisha Davis, left, and Khristina Hunter. Photo by Bob Larson.

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Concord softball prepares for its encore. Page 31 March 24, 2011

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Berkeley and Carondelet-Concord take emotional hoops to the fourth power

investment,” sports psychologist Dr. Doug or five minutes of a painfully somber press conference, Hannah Huffman Gardner says. “And with emotions that displayed the same poise she had for the high, it can be hard to maintain focus and previous 90 minutes on the floor of the Power intensity, especially when you factor in Balance Pavilion. fatigue.” After scoring a game-high 30 points in a We all know that there’s nothing worse 68-57 loss to Berkeley in the California Interthan losing to your rival. And when you scholastic Division I regional final, the junior know and see that rival in other settings, answered the media’s questions thoughtfully that can make it even worse. So imagine and with her head held high. And perhaps losing to that rival twice by a combined five her most thoughtful response, was her last points, and knowing that you get them one one — when she was asked what she thought more time for all the marbles. about being part of the four intense, tightlyGetting mentally prepared for a game contested, and extremely fan-friendly games like that is hard enough if you know nothbetween her team and Berkeley this season. ing about your opponent. “I think right now it’s hard to be excited “I definitely think preparing yourself about these games because it’s after a loss,” mentally for those games is more important Huffman said. “Looking back on it, though, than the physical preparation,” Huffman the four games with Berkeley were incredibly said two days after the loss in the regional fun. High energy. A lot of great athletes going final. “That’s something we probably didn’t at it. Teams with heart going at it. It’s been a do as good a job as we would’ve liked, but really fun four game series. I think it was important that we made the “Sure we would’ve like to have gotten the effort.” best of it at the end, but looking back on it, Huffman maintained that despite the we’ll kind of appreciate the rivalry we created results in the previous two games, she and with Berkeley this year.” her teammates never had that ‘Here we go The press conference ended no more than again’ feeling as Berkeley started to pull 30 seconds later, and as Huffman got up from away toward the end of the game. her chair and prepared to walk out with the “Until the final seconds, I never thought rest of her team, she could be heard saying to herself, “Did we really just lose?” there was a moment when we were done Losses like that are always going to carry a and done,” Huffman said. “There were just heavy sting for teams — especially when it’s a couple moments here and there where on that size of stage. But watching the game the ball didn’t bounce our way, and then unfold, from starting lineups through the fiBerkeley made free throws at the end.” nal buzzer, it was clear that there was a higher Afterward, in a much happier press condegree of emotional buy-in for this game. ference, Berkeley players admitted that they From both sides. weren’t immune to the emotions, either. Quick history lesson: The two teams first “It goes beyond Berkeley High,” Chairese played this year on Dec. 29 with Carondelet Culberson said. “We see them all the time beating Berkeley 54-52. On Jan. 15, BerkeChace@ in AAU. So it creates this ultra-rivalry. The ley defeated Carondelet 52-49. In the North rivalry between us and Carondelet is just SportStarsMag.com Coast Section Division I championship on two fantastic teams with a lot of fantastic March 4, Berkeley came from behind in the (925) 566-8503 players. We might seem like we don’t like fourth quarter and won 55-53. each other on the court, but off the court Compound the facts that many of these we’re cool.” players already have relationships with one Just a junior, Huffman may get another another through AAU, and that a bid to the chance to get the best of Berkeley in her state championship game was on the line, high school career, but it won’t be for a secand it all seemed like a recipe for the ultimate tion or regional title. The Cougars, bumped barnburner. up a division this season because they had But it really wasn’t. It was good. Great won three straight Division II crowns, will performances. A lot of intensity. And even return to Division II next year. though Carondelet hung tough for three and Huffman, as one might expect, would be a half quarters, it was tough to feel like Berkeready to play Round 5 tomorrow. ley ever lost a grip on the game. “I certainly can speak for our team when And it made me wonder, if the emotional I say we’d love to play that game over again.” toll of preparing for a game like that — after the manner Berkeley would probably oblige, too. in which the three previous games had played out — had And that’s why one-year rivalries between top-tier proCarondelet behind the 8-ball to begin with. “At the high school level there is so much emotional grams like that don’t come around too often. ✪

FIRST PITCH Chace Bryson Editor

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March 24, 2011

PHONE 925.566.8500 FAX 925.566.8507 Editorial Editor@SportStarsMag.com Editor Chace Bryson. Ext. 104 • Chace@SportStarsMag.com Contributors Bill Kolb, Erik Stordahl, Mike Wolcott, Jim Mannion, Mitch Stephens, Dave DeLong, Gary Xavier, Doug Gardner, Matt Smith, Clay Kallam, Jim McCue, Eric Gilmore, Ray Wolfe Photography Butch Noble, Bob Larson, Jonathan Hawthorne, Chris Austria Creative Department Art@SportStarsMag.com Production Manager Mike DeCicco. Ext. 103 • MikeD@SportStarsMag.com Publisher/President Mike Calamusa. Ext. 106 • Mike@SportStarsMag.com Advertising & Calendar/Classified Sales Sales@SportStarsMag.com Account Executives Mike Wolcott Ext. 109 • MikeW@SportStarsMag.com; Patrick McCormick Ext. 102 • Patrick@SportStarsMag.com; Erik Stordahl • ErikS@Sport StarsMag.com (Special Sections, Calendar, Marketplace sales) Reader Resources/Administration Ad Traffic, Subscription, Calendar & Classified Listings info@SportStarsMag.com • Deb Hollinger. Ext. 101 • Distribution/Delivery Mags@SportStarsMag.com Distribution Manager Butch Noble. Ext. 107 • Butch@SportStarsMag.com Information technology John Bonilla CFO Sharon Calamusa • Sharon@SportStarsMag.com Office Manager/Credit Services Deb Hollinger. Ext. 101 • Deb@SportStarsMag.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 community SportStars™ Magazine A division of Caliente! Communications, LLC 5356 Clayton Rd., Ste. 222 • Concord, CA • 94521 info@SportStarsMag.com www.SportStarsMag.com

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your ticket to bay area sports admit one; rain or shine This Vol. #2, March 2011 Whole No. 20 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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? ! ? T A H W D I A SHE S “My coach calls me the Piranha. Because I’m hungry for boards. I just had to live up to that name. Ever since he gave me that name, I was like ‘Oh, it’s time!’” Berkeley girls post player Chairese Culberson after she grabbed a game-high 13 rebounds in the Yellowjackets’ 68-57 defeat of Carondelet in the CIF Division I Northern regional ﬁnal on March 19.

Bob Larson

Join the conversation whenever you feel like it by emailing us at editor@sportstarsmag.com or posting to our Facebook page — after you ofﬁcially “Like us,” of course.

Last week in his column, our editor asked readers to sound off to a hypothetical question: Would you rather win a state championship and never play again, or lose the state ﬁnal and play in college without ever winning a title? Here’s one response:

I’m an athlete at Concord High and I play football and track. Personally, I think I would rather go to college because it opens up the door and I get to play on a bigger stage. I mean everybody wants that big victory, but the fact is nothing happens unless you put your game out there for everyone to see... SportStars: We can certainly get behind that reasoning. It’s still tough to turn down that championship, though.

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Sup

How to spice up your fantasy baseball draft Major League Baseball’s Opening Day is still a week away. You still have time to throw a fantasy league together. And the best part of every fantasy league is the draft. Trust us. And now we have ways to make it even better! 1. Physical challenges. Bound and determined to make Hanley Ramirez your No. 1 overall pick (because, you figure, The Great Pujols is bound to have an off-year some year, and this might just be the year)? Fine. Put your forehead on this bat, spin around in a circle twice, then race up three flights of stairs balancing this raw egg on a plastic spoon and deposit it safely via a 10-foot drop into a bowl of lime jello. First one with an unbroken orb encapsulated in green gel gets the top pick (but we still think you should go with Albert. We’re just sayin’.) 2. Theme music. You know you want your own Trevor Hoffman-esque Hells Bells tunage blaring out of the sound system when it comes time for you to start the run on closers. Don’t try to tell us you don’t. (For the record, we’re going with Eminence Front, but we’re long-time Who fans. Pick your own theme song.) 3. Cheerleaders. A little uncertain about that 23rd-round backup middle infielder you just added? What better way to feel good about your pick than to hear your own personal merry band of pom-pom-wielding, reverse-layout-executing, perpetually-exuberant pepsters cheering you on to certain victory? 4. Defense. Worried a guy is going to pull an in-your-face pick, taking the guy you were holding out for in the 19th round one pick ahead of your turn? Flick peanuts at his forehead. Cocoon him in silly-string. Give him a 20-ounce Mountain Dew shower. You know how hard it is to assess the relative merits of Mike Moustakas and David Freese when someone is bouncing Fritos off your bean and shouting the lyrics to I’m Shipping Up To Boston in your ear? Hard, man. Hard. 5. Make spelling count. Some pedant in your league thinks he has the inside-track on this year’s hot up-and-coming shortstop? Well, sure he can draft him, but he has to be able to rattle off T-S-U-Y-O-S-H-I N-I-S-H-I-O-K-A without peeking at his notes. — Bill Kolb

RAP ID F IRE How many March Madness brackets did you fill out?

Benny Battle De La Salle

Hailie Eackles Pinewood

James Marvel Campolindo

0 8 5

Toughest Favorite sports class movie? you’ve had in high school? He Got Game

Chemistry

Algebra 2 Coach Carter

The Sandlot

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AP European history

Longest paper you’ve written? Class? Grade? Five pages, English, C+

10 1/2 pages, European history, B

17 pages, English, A

What’s your Final Four or favorite candy Super Bowl? bar? Hershey (white chocolate)

Laffy Taffy

Snickers

Final Four

Super Bowl

Final Four

RANDOM ACTS OF FACTNESS When it comes to basketball in Northern California, it was a banner year for the North Coast Section. Seven of the 10 NorCal representatives at the CIF state basketball championships March 25-26 will represent the North Coast Section (Four boys teams — De La Salle-Concord, Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland, SalesianRichmond and St. Joseph Notre Dame-Alameda; Three girls — Berkeley, Bishop O’Dowd and St. Mary’s-Berkeley). Amazingly, it’s not the most the NCS has ever sent in a single year. In 2000, the section had eight teams at the state ﬁnals — all ﬁve boys teams (De La Salle, Newark Memorial-Newark, FoothillPleasanton, Tamalpais-Mill Valley and Hoopa), and three girls (Berkeley, Amador ValleyPleasanton and Petaluma).

March 24, 2011

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Offseason improvement should go beyond training and dribbling I need to get better before next basketball season. Should I go to a basketball trainer? They’re awfully expensive. C.F., Richmond et’s start with the most fundamental of fundamentals: How do you determine who wins a basketball game? And no, the answer is not the number of times the point guard goes between his legs on his way up the court, or how many fancy things he can do with the ball. Nor is the answer the team that can run the most wind sprints without getting tired. Or the girl who makes the most no-look passes in the league. No, the winner in a basketball game is the team that scores the most points, so by definition the most valuable players are those who can put the ball in the basket. (There’s also a tremendous value in being able to prevent opponents from putting the ball in the basket, but the rarer skill is the ability to create, and convert, shots.) First, let me say that there are many, many good trainers out there, and all of them will help you get better, in one way or another. Any time you spend working on your game is going to help, and doing so under the watchful eye of someone who knows a lot more than you is going to help even more. The question, though, as you mention, is whether it’s worth the cost. In my opinion, too many trainers spend too much of their allotted time making kids run and sweat, and too much time working on ballhandling. Hey, if you need a workout, go down to 24-Hour Fitness and get a trainer — or just have your dad sit in a chair and yell at you for 45 minutes to push harder. You don’t need to pay someone $50+/hour to break a sweat. If you’re not motivated enough to work out hard on your own, then that money you’re spending is pretty much wasted anyway. So if it seems like the main thing a trainer tries to do is get you tired, and run you until

you’re too exhausted to hold your form on your jump shot, then you should think about whether you’re really working on basketball, or conditioning. And as for ballhandling, a well-respected coach told me he did some research, and in a college game, only the point guard takes more than 100 dribbles a game. The post player might take ten — and as Texas coach Rick Barnes said in Sports Illustrated, one of the big problems in basketball is that players dribble too much. And why? Because they spend so much time practicing dribbling that they want to show off their moves. But think about it: How many times in a season do you really need to go behind your back in a game? Maybe at halfcourt in transition — but if you’re a forward, the odds are you’re never going to do that. And how many times are you sitting down, or on your knees? And how often do you have two basketballs? Of course ballhandling is important, and drills can help young players get comfortable with the ball. But a high school varsity player can very likely dribble well enough to get the job done — what he or she needs to really work on, though, is scoring. For example, can you go off the dribble going either way (right or left) and get off a one-two jumper, as well as a jumper where you push off both feet at the same time? Can you finish with either hand inside eight feet — from both sides of the basket? And perhaps most important of all, if a defender takes away your best offensive move, do you have a counter? And if she takes away the counter, do you have a counter to that? This is the kind of work a basketball trainer should do. You should leave a session a better player, not just a kid who can dribble two balls while sweating profusely. You should understand your game better, and be more skilled with your footwork. If possible, you should be a better defender, and understand defensive angles and rotations. ✪

Behind the Clipboard Clay Kallam

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March 24, 2011

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At the plate with Trevor, a Little League at-bat we’ve all seen before

face. The pitcher rocked and fired again. his is the story of one Little League at-bat. “Ball two!” Trevor seemed at ease again. It happened this month in a He was three pitches into his Minor League Northern California town during an career, and ready to do some damage. opening-day jamboree featuring dozens of Pitch 4 came right down the pipe. The teams, hundreds of players and thousands of little lefty watched the ball, kept his head big-league dreams. perfectly still, swung level and turned his It could have been Fremont, Concord, hips at just the right instant. So perfectly, in Redding or Sacramento. It quite possibly fact, he fouled the pitch straight back into happened in all four, or maybe a hundred the screen. As they say in the big leagues, he other cities along the way. was “right on it.” On this day, in this town, the at-bat be(I know this because I watch 162 Giants longed to Trevor. games a year and every time a batter fouls a Before we get into the batter’s box, a pitch back into the screen, about 12 times a couple of facts about Trevor: night, Mike Krukow says “He was right on Trevor, 8, stands all of 4 feet, 4 inches. it!”) He’s the smallest player on his Minor League Trevor suddenly seemed a lot taller than team. Not just barely the smallest; small4-4. He looked like a hitter up there. Everyest by quite a bit. As in, if he stood on his one in the park noticed, especially Trevor’s tiptoes, he’d probably be looking the nextcoaches and teammates. shortest kid right in the chin. Maybe … a little too much. All of a Think of the smallest kid you’ve ever sudden, the advice was flying out of the seen on a baseball field, who also happens over-excited dugout with twice the velocity to be the happiest kid on the team, wearing offered by the 11-year-old on the mound. emotions on his face with a brightness that “Trevor! Choke up! Keep your head still! reveals every inner thought from 100 feet Watch the ball! Bend your knees! Get closer away. to the plate! Scoot back! Remember: swing Got the image? We’ve all seen this kid. level!” Yep. That’s Trevor. It was an awful lot of advice to process all You could spot his eagerness even while at once, and unfortunately for Trevor, every standing in right field, that lonely corner of single sentence was met with an immediate the diamond where every smallest-playerand equal reaction. on-the-team begins his baseball journey. His He stepped back to the plate. He bent his smile grew wider with each pitch, his legs knees. He choked up. Then he scooted back gained spring with every swing and his arms in the box, holding his head perfectly still the swung freely in celebration with every out. whole time. At the last second, he tried to Finally, it was his turn to bat. The first move closer to the plate. at-bat of his Minor League career, against a You know, just as he’d been told. pitcher three years older who stood 8 inches Unfortunately, by the time he’d finished taller and was perched atop a mound that adjusting to all of that brilliant advice, the added another 6 inches to his frame. MikeW@ ball was already most of the way to the plate. From Trevor’s angle, it might as well have SportStarsMag.com He swung and missed, hopelessly behind. been Randy Johnson up there. “Strike three!” Somewhere between the dugout and the (925) 566-8500 There is no sadder, or more stirring, sight batter’s box, the enormity of the moment Ext. 109 in all of sports than watching the smallcaught up with him. The smile slowly gave est 8-year-old on the field walk back to the way to memories of a dozen practices’ worth dugout after striking out. The game ended of instructions. You could feel his thought shortly thereafter and Trevor quickly ended process from 20 paces away. up in the backseat of his mom’s car, head He bravely stepped into the box, put his down and dejected. feet into the spot occupied by the previous It was an instant reminder that baseball, hitter, checked his bat, lifted it above his like life, is ultimately a losing proposition — shoulder and finally raised his head and stared down the pitcher, who rocked and but as long as we’re on the field, we’ve got to fired. The ball flew right across the plate, keep swinging. shoulder high. Trevor turned and nervously looked at the As impossible as it might have been for him to believe at umpire. the time, Trevor would learn there was another day. And “Ball one!” another game. And that perfect swing, the one where he was So far, so good. The smile was back. He was playing base“right on it,” would produce a different result — a base hit ball, he had the pitcher in a 1-0 hole. The next pitch came in right over the mound and into center field. It would be a feelright across the letters. Trevor hesitated, then cut loose. By ing he would never forget for as long as he played baseball. the time his bat reached the plate, the ball was already in the And somewhere in the stands a 3-foot-11, 7-year-old kid catcher’s glove. would see it, and dream of the day he, too, could go out and “Strike!” play with the “big” kids. Probably next year, the second SatTrevor looked over at the dugout, mouth closed, a big, urday of March, in some Northern California town. Maybe major look of concern dominating the little minor-leaguer’s even yours. ✪

WALLY’S WORLD

Mike Wolcott

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March 24, 2011

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The power of words: When they help, and when they don’t

ave you ever caught yourself wondering about the meaning of innocuous words and phrases of encouragement given by fans, teammates and coaches? Watch “Bull Durham” again, or simply listen closely to the types of encouragement and instruction offered to athletes the next time you are at games. After attending too many sporting events in my career, I am not surprised why young athletes tune out and ignore adults. What does it mean to get a good pitch, or your pitch to hit? How can you just trust yourself and allow your talent to take over? Is someone really capable of forgetting a bad play, an error or a strikeout? What about my personal favorite:

Stop thinking and just play. Just have fun. Have fun? You try it sometimes. Try forgetting about the run-scoring double the centerfielder took away your last at-bat. What about the borderline strike-three call you didn’t get, only to give up a big hit on the next pitch? Is it really that easy to stay positive and stop thinking at the same time? Especially when you are mired in an 0-for-10 slump? Despite the positive intentions, athletes often become more distracted and frustrated by words of encouragement and instruction in pressure situations. The hitter knows she

needs to get a hit before she steps into the batters box, the pitcher wants to get the out and the fielder wants to play error-free. When mistakes are made, athletes are usually harder on themselves than anyone. Athletes don’t like to hear someone restating the obvious, telling them what they should have done and that they will be ok. Fans, parents and coaches often forget or have not experienced the empty and hollow feeling of making a mistake in front of teammates, coaches and those who want to see you succeed. Now add the aspect that half the fans at a game want to see you fail, and it makes for a very difficult mental balance for the average athlete. Athletes are the first to understand the magnitude of their mistake and want to do something to shift negative attention away from their gaffe. In these circumstances, athletes tend to try harder to make up for a poor performance. The pitcher tries to blow a fastball by the hitter, only to get hit harder. The hitter tries to make up for three bad at-bats by placing more pressure on themselves to get a hit in their last. The unfortunate side of trying harder is often continued poor performance, as there is no correlation between trying harder and performing better. Usually, when athletes try, they get tense. They tense mentally, in that they cannot input, process and analyze strategic information into action. They tense physically, as their indecision prohibits their body from acting on decisions that were not made in an athletic and instinctive manner. The most classic response to tension is to tell someone to relax. Once again, word choice becomes critical. What does relax really mean? How does one really relax in pressure situations? Is relaxation really the correct goal? While I cannot discount the importance of utilizing and practicing self-regulation skills, I believe it is incorrect to solely limit mental training to (1) relaxation and (2) not thinking as goals for achieving success. My concern is when athletes need everything to be perfect for them to perform well. Once adversity strikes, many athletes do not possess the mental fortitude to make sense of their situation, define their reality, and make decisions and take actions, win or lose. Once consequences enter into the equation, athlete decision-making strategies change in predictable and avoidable ways. This mostly occurs because something was not perfect and now they are thinking out of emotion, not out of logic and rationality. All of the positive thinking in the world will not guarantee athletic success. More importantly, spending time trying to be positive takes away the mental energy needed to be strategic and problem solve. Problem solving is a strength that most student-athletes possess in the classroom and it is important to bring this attribute onto the athletic field. ✪

Get Mental

Doug Gardner

Dr. Doug Gardner is a Sport Psychology Professional who spent six years as the Sport Psychology Consultant for the Boston Red Sox. He is the owner of the ThinkSport Consulting Services, which has locations in Northern and Southern California. Contact Dr. Gardner by email at dg@thinksport. com.

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March 24, 2011

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of the week

jabari bird salesian . basketball . sophomore

It’s been a whirlwind season for Jabari Bird. The sophomore forward was one of the top-ranked sophomores in the country by Rivals.com and ESPNRise, he was caught in allegations regarding eligibility issues in January, and upon being reinstated has helped guide the Salesian Pride to Power Balance Pavilion for a date with Windward-Los Angeles for the CIF Div. IV state championship on March 26. Bird led the Pride with 19 points in a 59-53 NorCal final win over rival St. Mary’sBerkeley on March 19. He contributed 19 points and nine rebounds in an 85-66 semifinal victory over Santa Cruz on March 12. SportStars: You guys are a young team. Describe the chemistry you have with them. Jabari Bird: We clicked real quick early in the season. We already knew each other; there was instant chemistry. As the year got longer, we grew closer and closer. SportStars: Obviously, it’s been a long season. Are you guys tired? JB: It’s tiring. We go through a bunch of work. But there are two teams left, and we’re just trying to be the last team standing. SportStars: What was the toughest part of dealing with the ineligibility ordeal? JB: There were lots of questions, rumors of who did what. My team was real close, they’re like my brothers. SportStars: What needs to be done to win state? JB: We need to keep playing hard like we’ve been doing all season. We should be able to accomplish our goal. JABARI’S QUICK HITS Who are you rooting for in the NCAA tourney: Arizona Most points scored in a game: 32 Favorite sport other than basketball: Strictly basketball

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honorable mention

hannah huffman The junior forward was nothing short of amazing during the CIF Div. I Northern regional playoffs for Carondelet. She posted a career-high 34 points in a 77-66 semifinal win over St. Francis-Sacramento and followed it with a game-high 30 points in a 68-57 loss to Berkeley in the final.

brendan keane The Northern Colorado-bound big man posted 17 points, seven rebounds and three blocked shots as he helped lead the St. Joseph Notre Dame boys basketball team to a 6143 win over University-San Francisco in the CIF Div. V Northern regional championship on March 19.

Annelise ito Playing with her heart on her sleeve, the Campolindo senior valiantly poured in 16 points to go with 15 rebounds in a 58-54 loss to Sacramento in a CIF Div. II Northern regional semifinal on March 12. Ito attended a memorial service for her grandfather before the game.

March 24, 2011

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club scene

Lafayette’s Sherman Divers earn solid results at US Junior Championships By erik stordahl | SportStars The Sherman Divers of Lafayette took on some of the top competitors from all over the country at the US Junior Diving Championships in Beaverton, Ore. on March 5-6. “It was a successful trip for Sherman Divers,” said coach Steve Sherman. “We took five divers, two of which dived at the Regional level for the first time, gaining valu-

able experience.” Some of the standouts from Sherman Swim included Morgan Matranga. One of the youngest in her age group, the Moraga native competed in the 14-15 Girls 3-meter springboard scoring 272 points and placing 17th. On the 1-meter springboard, she racked up 223 points, finishing 21st. Traveling with the team for the first time, Brenna Cetrone placed 13th with a score of

192.75 in the 12-13 Girls 3 Meter competition. She narrowly missed medaling by onetenth of a point. In the 1 Meter Springboard she finished with 174.45 and 14th place. She’s determined to work harder and earn a medal at the next competition. Maren Kjell had her work cut out for her as she competed in arguably the toughest age group of the meet: 16-18. Going up against 60 girls, she finished a respectable 23rd in the 1 Meter Springboard with a score of 299.70. On the boys side, Erich Brodbeck amassed 347.25 points in the 16-18 Boys 1 Meter Springboard picking up 11th place. He placed 12th in the 3 Meter competition with 336.25 points. Asher Lichtig scored 336.10 points in the 16-18 Boys 1 Meter Springboard finishing in 11th place. He ended up 17th on the 3 Meter with 313.15 points. “This was one of the largest regionals in the nation with over 400 of the best divers from nine states,” said Sherman. “It was wonderful to see our divers so pumped from the diving meet that they returned home eager to learn new dives!”

EBSA excels East Bay Sports Academy made some noise at the Golden State Spirit Association (GSSA) Aloha in San Jose on March 19. Their Open International Level 5 team (ages 14 and older) placed first. The Senior Level 4.2 (ages 12-18) finished second, and their Minis (ages 4-8) placed third. “We were not planning on starting an all-star cheer program this year,” said cheer director Stacy Samarin. “But so many people asked us to start a program that we couldn’t say no.” The GSSA Aloha is one event in a circuit throughout 2011. The championship takes place in Hawaii. EBSA figures to be a formidable opponent to any competitor. “This year has been such an amazing year for our athletes and our program,” says Samarin. “The love and support we have from the families has been overwhelming.” These girls aren’t afraid of being in the spotlight as they shined at the GSSA Championships in Sacramento on Dec. 11. Their Junior squad (ages 8-14) finished third and the Open International Level 5 team took home the gold. What can be attributed to the amount of success EBSA has already experienced? Samarin sums it up with the environment they create at their facility. “We strive everyday to make sure EBSA is a place these athletes and families can call

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March 24, 2011

Contributed photos

TOP: Brenna Cetrone performs a one and one-half inward somersault during the U.S. Junior Championships in early March. BOTTOM: The East Bay Sports Academy’s Senior Level 4.2 cheer team took first at the Golden State Spirit Association Aloha on March 19. home,” Samarin says. “And a place where they can achieve their athletic goals.” While the success in competition is more than welcomed, Samarin admits trophies, medals and banners are not their sole purpose for competing. “The place we receive at a competition doesn’t matter because we already won first place before we even stop onto the competition floor,” explains Samarin. “And that’s a first place that is priceless.” ✪ Want your club team featured in the Scene? Email your results or news items to ErikS@SportStarsMag.com

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Running in the rain The first year of the Martinez Relays under its new name, The Martinez/Tim Bruder Relays, was a wet one. And yet, the copious amounts of rain wasn’t enough to deter the 20 or more schools who showed up from competing for the coveted team titles. SportStars braved the weather, too. Here are a few photos from the event as well as the final varsity results. Following are the Top 3 teams in each event: VARSITY BOYS Overall team scores Jesse Bethel-Vallejo.................................... 46 Westmoor-Daly City ................................... 44 Alhambra-Martinez...................................... 41 6400 relay Miramonte-Orinda...............................19:36.5 Sacred Heart-San Francisco..............19:53.7 Alhambra.............................................20.17.0 Hurdles relay Newark Memorial-Newark....................1:13.0 Westmoor..............................................1:14.7 Concord.................................................1:16.5 400m relay Jesse Bethel.............................................44.1 Deer Valley-Antioch..................................44.8 Pinole Valley-Pinole..................................44.9 3200m relay Miramonte..............................................8:54.8 Alhambra...............................................9:04.6 Sacred Heart.........................................9:07.3 Sprint medley relay San Ramon-Danville.............................1:38.7 Kennedy-Richmond..............................1:42.0 Jesse Bethel..........................................1:43.1 Distance medley relay Santa Rosa.......................................... 11:44.1 Alhambra.............................................12:04.0 Sacred Heart.......................................12:10.6 800m relay Jesse Bethel..........................................1:35.0 Kennedy.................................................1:38.6 Westmoor..............................................1:48.8 1600m relay Jesse Bethel..........................................3:42.5 Westmoor..............................................3:48.4 Alhambra...............................................4:00.9 High jump Jesse Bethel...........................................10-06 Newark Memorial.....................................9-08 Westmoor.................................................4-10 Shot put Santa Rosa...........................................118-04 Newark Memorial..............................114-04.5 Discus Santa Rosa...........................................308-05 Westmoor.............................................239-03 Alhambra..............................................225-08 VARSITY GIRLS Overall team scores Westmoor.................................................... 62 Santa Rosa.................................................. 50 Mercy-San Francisico................................ 33 Hurdle relay Mercy................................................. 1:20.3 Westmoor..............................................1:20.9 Santa Rosa .......................................1:21.5

Butch Noble

ABOVE: Members of the MiramonteOrinda, left, and Northgate-Walnut Creek relay teams attempt to avoid puddles as they break at the start. RIGHT: A member of the WestmoorDaly City team carries the baton into the homestretch. Westmoor took first place in the overall girls standings. 400m relay Kennedy....................................................50.8 Pinole Valley.............................................50.9 St.Francis..................................................52.2 3200m relay Santa Rosa..........................................10:29.4 Sacred Heart.......................................10:34.3 Westmoor............................................ 11:08.4 Sprint medley St.Francis-Mountian View.....................1:57.6 Kennedy.................................................1:59.3 Alhambra...............................................2:01.8 Distance medley Santa Rosa..........................................13:44.5 Sacred Heart.......................................13:52.6 Westmoor............................................14:16.2 800m relay Kennedy.................................................1;51.9 Sacred Heart.........................................1:55.0 Westmoor..............................................1:48.8 1600m relay Westmoor..............................................4:31.1 Alhambra...............................................4:42.1 Mercy.....................................................4:52.3 High jump Santa Rosa.............................................14-00 Northgate-Walnut Creek..........................8-09 Mercy........................................................8-09 Shot put Fortuna....................................................86-06 Berean Christian-Walnut Creek..........76-04.5 Santa Rosa..........................................72-10.5 Discus Fortuna..................................................244-11 Santa Rosa...........................................207-10 Westmoor.............................................199-07

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March 24, 2011

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PivotalDecision

In a school where football is king, De La Salle senior Travis Pacos shed the pads to become an unconventional hoops star By Chace Bryson | Editor

As the basketball popped loose in the backcourt, Travis Pacos knew the Castro Valley High defender was going to get it. Pacos also knew that once that happened, none of his De La Salle teammates were going to be able to stop the Trojans player from scoring an uncontested layup at the other end of the floor. And that’s when it appeared instinct took over. With two steps and a head first dive that took him parallel to the Power Balance Pavilion floor, Pacos was able to grab at the arm of the Castro Valley player and draw a foul that stopped the fast break before it happened. If it looked like Pacos should’ve been wearing shoulder pads and a helmet on the play, that’s because the majority of his near four-year athletic career at De La Salle has been focused on the football field. But that changed in late August when he made a very difficult decision to hang up his cleats and devote his full-time focus to basketball. “It was probably the toughest decision of my life so far,” Pacos said. That decision may very well end up being the largest factor in the Spartan basketball team’s return to the California Interscholastic Federation Division I state championship for the first time since 2006. In a year that nobody expected it to. When the horn sounded on the CIF Division I Northern regional championship on March 19, much of the 8,000 in attendance at the former Arco Arena were in a state of shock. Most notably the Castro Valley players, coaches and fans, all of whom were trying to make sense of how their season of destiny — the Trojans entered the game as heavy favorites, boasting a 30-1 record and a 60-42 win over the same De La Salle in the North Coast Section championship just two weeks before — had turned on a dime, in a span of six and a half minutes between the third and fourth quarters. That span began when Castro Valley’s Juan Anderson scored to put the Trojans up 29-21 with 2:12 to go in the third. It ended with 3:42 to go in the game when Anderson scored again to bring an end to an 18-0 De La Salle run. Photos by Bob Larson

De La Salle forward Travis Pacos, center, has to revert to his football instincts to hold on to the ball as Castro Valley’s Chris Read, left, and Juan Anderson try to wrestle it away in their game on March 19. 16

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CIF State Championships Here are the 10 state finals matchups being played out at Power Balance Pavilion in Sacramento on March 25-26. Friday, March 25 Div V boys: St. Bernard-Playa del Ray (26-8) vs. St. Joseph Notre DameAlameda (26-8), 1:30 p.m. Div V girls: St. Bernard-Playa del Ray (24-14) vs. Pinewood-Los Altos Hills (27-5), 3:30 p.m Div II girls: Rialto (33-3) vs. St. Mary’s-Stockton (28-2), 6 p.m. Div II boys: Summit-Fontana (28-7) vs. Archbishop Mitty-San Jose (31-2), 8 p.m. Saturday, March 26 Div IV girls: Windward-Los Angeles (28-4) vs. St. Mary’s-Berkeley (30-4), 9:30 a.m. Div IV boys: Windward-L.A. (26-8) vs. Salesian-Richmond (25-11), 11:15 a.m. Div III girls: St. Joseph-Santa Maria (28-6) vs. Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland (25-6), 1 p.m. Div III boys: Lutheran-La Verne (265) vs. Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland (25-6), 2:45 p.m. Div I girls: Mater Dei-Santa Ana (331) vs. Berkeley (31-1), 6 p.m. Div I boys: Mater Dei-Santa Ana (31-3) vs. De La Salle-Concord (27-5), 8 p.m.

Pacos was everywhere during the six and a half minute Spartans onslaught. He scored 12 of his team-high 19 points during the run. He also had two his team-high three steals during the same stretch. “Travis is unbelievable,” De La Salle coach Frank Allocco said after the game. “I say this week after week. He kind of embodies us as a team. He’s not the prettiest basketball player but he just gets it done. He makes big plays.” But before he could make big plays, he had to make the big decision. There was a time that Pacos looked to be on the fast track with the football team. He made the varsity team as a sophomore in the 2008 season, backing up starting quarterback Blake Wayne. As a junior in 2009 he was given the first chance at the starting quarterback role, but was eventually replaced by up-andcoming sophomore Bart Houston. Spartans defensive coordinator Terry Eidson saw potential for Pacos to help on the defensive side of the ball and immediately started working him out as a linebacker and strong safety. He saw some limited time in those roles as the Spartans rolled to a state title after a CIF Open Division bowl victory over Crenshaw-Los Angeles. However, coming into 2010, his role with the football team still wasn’t clearly defined. But he wasn’t just going to turn his back on the program without finding out where he

Spartans coach Frank Allocco described Pacos as “not exactly the prettiest basketball player, but he just gets it done.” The 6-foot-2 forward leads De La Salle in scoring. stood first. “The way he went about it was really mature,” Eidson said of Pacos‘ decision to walk away. “He stuck through the summer workouts and went through the first scrimmage to see where he was going to fit before making his decision. What I appreciated was that he really gave it an effort.” His teammates appreciated it, too “He put the work into it and did everything

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the rest of the guys did,” Eidson said. “When you do that, your teammates are going to respect you and the decisions you make.” And even though his football coaches and teammates supported the move, it didn’t make it any easier. “Just leaving the football community was tough. I loved it,” Pacos said. “I loved everything they did. It was tough, but they were very supportive, and it ended up working

out. Obviously it was totally worth it and I’m having a great basketball experience and I’m enjoying everything.” And while the football team went on to win a second consecutive state title with another Open Division bowl victory, Pacos was in the gym with Allocco and the rest of the Spartans basketball team — working on the skills that would help turn yhe undersized 6-foot-2 forward into the team’s top scorer and emotional leader. “He was giving up a state championship (with the football team), and I think he knew that,” Allocco said. “Travis is one of the nicest kids I’ve ever met. It sounds corny, but he embodies what our school is about. He’s about serving others. “He looked at the situation and said I’m going to play some football but where will I contribute more? Where can I help my classmates more? I’m going to play a lot on the basketball team. I might play some football, but I can be a key component on the basketball team. And it really did help us with him coming on full-time.” Perhaps the biggest basket of the 18-0 run came in the final five seconds of the third quarter as Amadi Udenyi dribbled the length of the floor and dished to Pacos, who was able to convert a layup right as the horn sounded. De La Salle still trailed 29-28, but the body language of Castro Valley as it walked back to the bench, told the story. There was a look of “Where did that come from?” across their faces. And there was still 11 more unanswered points to come, 10 of them from Pacos. “Travis just made a big time improvement from last year,” Udenyi said after the game. “He quit football and got dedicated to basketball, and now 19 points in the NorCal finals is incredible. He and I are always talk about (his ability to just get the ball in the basket). I just tell him ‘Get open, and I’ll find you. You’re going to get the ball’ Thirty minutes after the game had ended, Allocco stood in the tunnel as the Power Balance Pavilion emptied and his team could be heard hooting and hollering from the dressing room. The victory, and the manner in which the Spartans pulled it off, was still sinking in. “The last two games have just been amazing,” Allocco said, also referring to the Spartans’ 47-45 win over Sheldon-Sacramento in the regional semifinal — yet another comefrom-behind effort. “I keep preparing speeches to tell them how proud they should be of their season, and so on. But they just keep winning.” Pacos emerges from the dressing room in a Michigan football t-shirt with the type of grin someone wears after pulling off a giant prank. It was clear, nobody was having more fun than he was at this very moment. “He’s always had a great attitude,” Eidson said. “That’s why everyone roots for the guy.” ✪ March 24, 2011

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Meet the new boss, same as the old boss Several girls programs continue their proud championship legacies By clay kallam | Contributor

With its runaway victory over Modesto Christian, the St. Mary’s-Berkeley girls basketball team made a definitive statement on its way to a second straight California Interscholastic Federation Division IV Northern regional championship. The Panthers have the look of a budding dynasty. But as the rest of the Northern regional finals played out on March 19, it was the current and undisputed dynasties that flexed their muscles. Berkeley won its 10th Division I regional title — a CIF record for boys or girls — and St. Mary’s-Stockton (Div. III) secured its ninth, and Pinewood (Div. V) grabbed its sixth. That particular trio have gone on to win 12 state championships – with St. Mary’s of Stockton and Pinewood both defending champions. The written word, however, does not come close to telling the tale of how hard it is to advance that far so often. For example, just look at this year’s NorCal title games, and except for St. Mary’s of Berkeley, every one was a struggle. Sure, maybe Berkeley’s 68-57 win over Carondelet in the Division I final looked like an easy win, but despite the final margin, it was anything but routine. The Yellowjackets jumped out to an early lead, and thanks to a

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March 24, 2011

12-2 run at the end of the second quarter, led 31-19 at the break. When Brittany Boyd converted another drive with 6:19 left in the third, it was 37-23 Berkeley. But then Hannah Huffman caught fire for Carondelet, and quickly rattled off two baskets. After Rachel Howard scored for Berkeley, freshman Natalie Romeo hit a couple free throws for Carondelet and unsung reserve post Katherine Luther scored five points in 26 seconds to bring the Cougars within five. When Boyd, who finished with 17 points, eight rebounds and three steals, picked up her fourth foul with 7:04 left in the game, Carondelet’s energy level went up a notch, and when Luther scored on a drive, it was 52-49 with 4:02 to go. But Chairese Culberson and Khristina Hunter made sure it got no closer, as they continued Berkeley’s domination of the boards (45-24) and despite Huffman’s 30 points, the Yellowjackets held on to beat the Cougars for the third time in four tries. “That was a great high school game,” said Berkeley coach Cheryl Draper, who is very conscious of the ‘Jackets history. “We play for the legacy of the school – the 10 championships are very important to us.” Another game that was a lot closer than the score indicated was St. Mary’s of Stockton’s 56-

Bob Larson

Berkeley’s Brittany Boyd, center, shares a victory yell with teammate Elisha Davis after the Yellowjackets wrapped up their 10th regional championship. 48 Division II win over Del Oro-Loomis. The Golden Eagles, in fact, carried a three-point lead into the fourth quarter. Even though St. Mary’s led for the last 6:44 of the game, it wasn’t until Ali Gibson scored five straight points midway through the fourth quarter that St. Mary’s had any breathing room. But it wasn’t the leading scorers who were the difference in this one; rather, it was 6-foot-1 St. Mary’s center Kendall Kenyon, who finished with 20 rebounds and three

blocked shots. Kenyon’s offensive rebounds in the second half were crucial in denying Del Oro the chance to get Madeline Campbell (18 points) and Crystal Sewell (16) the ball. As for St. Mary’s of Berkeley, well that was the easiest win of all, even if the Panthers have the shortest resume. They led Modesto Christian 45-23 at the half, and wound up winning 70-42, the 17th straight win for St. Mary’s – and though two NorCal titles might not impress Berkeley, it’s more than most. ✪

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PFSS: A fancy acronym for common form of knee pain

hat is Patellofemoral Stress Syndrome (PFSS)? PFSS is generalized pain around the patellofemoral joint, or the kneecap, that is activity related. This is one of the most common overuse injuries for young athletes that we see in our sports medicine clinic. The stress at the patellofemoral joint occurs when the athlete places an excessive amount of force through the front thigh, or quadriceps, muscle. When the force of the quadriceps is too high for the kneecap to absorb, the result is PFSS. This will present as front of the knee pain, most commonly, with running, jumping and during quick direction changes of sports. The kneecap pain can be triggered by walking up and down stairs, and become painful with sitting (having the knee bent) for an extended time. PFSS can occur from repeated bending and straightening of the knee, which can irritate the kneecap and surrounding structures. It has four main causes. Muscle Imbalances: The quadriceps muscle is working overtime because the gluteus (back hip) muscles are weak. This creates an imbalance where the workload is too high for the front thigh, and the back thigh is not supporting the movement demands during landing from a jump, or with propelling the leg in sprinting. Faulty Technique: During the bending phase, or landing phase, with running, jumping, or changing direction, the knee joint will excessively rotate, or cave, inward. This can happen because either the hip or the ankle is not providing the support for the knee. This caving in puts extra stress on the patellofemoral joint. Tightness: Lack of flexibility in the quadriceps can compress the patellofemoral joint, as the patella sits at the very end of the quadriceps tendon. Too much too soon: The training pro-

gram has been too much for the muscles to absorb. This can lead to fatigue due to lack of enough rest or recovery. Training programs that involve multiple teams, excessive jumping, or hill running place the patellofemoral joint at risk for an overuse injury. Initial treatment of PFSS is aimed at reducing pain and inflammation by applying P.R.I.C.E. (protect, REST, ice, compression, elevation). Physical therapy is usually the treatment of choice for PFSS. The physical therapist will give you specific exercises to help with stretching of the muscles around the knee and to strengthen the hip, knee, and foot. ■ If there is a muscle imbalance issue: Strengthen the hip, hamstrings and calf before trying to do any squatting exercises. ■ If there is a faulty technique: Look in a mirror and make sure when you do a shallow squat that your knee does not cave inward. ■ If you are tight: Stretch the quadriceps muscle by pulling your heel towards you buttocks. Do this lying on your stomach to prevent any twisting of the knee or too much arching of the back. ■ Monitor your trainings for the week by writing a log what you do for how long. Limit any jumping or hill running until you can run without pain. Any pain you have is a signal to you that there is too much stress on that structure.

Health Watch Michelle Cappello

Michelle Cappello is a physical therapist for the staff of Sports Medicine 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 For Young Athletes staff at Health@SportStarsMag.com.

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March 24, 2011

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Dragon Elder

Senior Lariel Powell helps young Bishop O’Dowd girls to finally reach state final By clay kallam | Contributor

Basketball success is a way of life at the corner of Stearns and 98th Ave. in Oakland. Yes, the Bishop O’Dowd boys’ basketball team has won 13 North Coast Section titles and seven NorCal championships, and even won the first modern California basketball playoff back in 1981. So the natural assumption is that the girls have had their fair share of statewide success as well — but despite a long history of championships (seven NCS titles), the female Dragons had never played in a state championship game. Until now. After coming from eight points down in a first half marred with air balls and turnovers, Bishop O’Dowd roared back to beat Sacramento (another set of Dragons) 57-46 and advance to the California Interscholastic Federation Division III state title game on March 26 against St. Joseph-Santa Maria. It would be easy to focus on the quartet of highly-touted O’Dowd sophomores as the reason for the first trip to the big stage — point guard Ariell Bostick and posts Oderah Chidom (6-3), K.C. Waters (6-2) and Breanna Brown (6-3) combined for 38 points and 30 rebounds — but a player who knew more about the frustration of coming close but never quite getting there had as much to do with the March 19 win at Power Balance Pavilion: senior Lariel Powell. When Bishop O’Dowd was struggling in the first half, it was Powell who kept the Dragons close. Her 17-footer tied the game at two in the early going, but it wasn’t until midway through the third quarter – when Powell hit her third 3-pointer – that O’Dowd was even again. With Sacramento junior Jasmine Ware and senior Fantasia Hilliard combining for 14 points in the first half, the state capital’s Dragons controlled the first 16 minutes, leading 13-7 at the break and 20-15 at the half. But if not for Powell, the game might have been all but over. Powell’s 3-pointer in the last minute of the first quarter kept Bishop O’Dowd close, and another from beyond the arc wrapped up the first-half scoring, and set the stage for a thirdquarter burst that defined the game. “In the first half, we settled for outside shots,” said O’Dowd coach Malik McCord. “In the second half, we worked the ball down low.” In fact, the Dragons did so on the first possession, getting the ball to the imposing Waters inside for a layup that made it a three-point game. After diminutive Bre’ana Williams dropped in a three for Sacramento, Waters struck again, and again from close to the basket. And no matter whether the venerable Sacramento arena is called Arco or Power Balance Pavilion, it’s still the place where 3-point shooting teams go to die. The rims are NBA-tight, and the lighting and backdrop throw off even the best shooters. “Our shots were off because the backboards are see20

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March 24, 2011

Butch Noble

Bishop O’Dowd senior Lariel Powell drives to the hoop against Berkeley in January. Powell’s senior leadership helped the Dragons come from behind and beat Sacramento in the CIF Div. III Northern regional final. through and we could not focus (on the rims),” said Powell afterwards, but don’t think that was just an excuse. In the three girls regional finals on March 19, the six teams went 11-for-81 from 3-point distance — and it’s fair to say those six teams didn’t get this far shooting 13.6 percent from beyond the arc. Even with Powell’s distance shooting success, once her 3-pointer tied things at 26-26, Bishop O’Dowd focused on getting the ball inside — and not surprisingly, steadily pulled away. The 10-0 run that followed an Allie Green free throw was all inside, and featured a flurry of assists from Bostick, who didn’t shoot all that well, but was a very effective floor leader when her team needed it most. Sacramento, meanwhile, just couldn’t match O’Dowd’s inside presence. Though 6-4 freshman Ayanna Edwards had one of her best games with four blocks and six rebounds, she scored only one point — and the Sac-Joaquin Section champions just couldn’t generate their usual in-the-paint scoring. Though Ware finished with 18 points and Hilliard with 15, Green was unable to convert her usual short-range jumpers and follow shots. Fur-

thermore, despite 10 rebounds, freshman Najah Queenland wasn’t able to get a basket. “We missed free throws and couldn’t get a stop,” said Sacramento coach Michele Massari afterward. So for the first time, one of the traditional boys’ powers in the Bay Area has a girls team to brag about as well — and it very likely won’t be the last. Powell is the only senior on the roster, and though she will be missed, the rest of the team returns, and the four star sophomores will be back for two more years. The Dragons struggled at times his year, and would go into funks similar to the first half in the NorCal title game, but as Bostick settles into her point guard role, and Chidom, Waters and Brown continue to develop, Bishop O’Dowd will be the overwhelming Division III preseason favorite in 2012 and 2013. (And since the NCS Board of Managers voted out the rule that required teams to move up a division if they won three straight NCS titles, only the introduction of a long-rumored open division could slow the O’Dowd juggernaut.) And adding a state championship banner or two to the gym wall isn’t out of the question either. ✪ Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

Redemption Song

St. Joseph Notre Dame seniors find their way back to the Div. V state championship By jim mccue | Contributor

Chris Austria

St. Joseph Notre Dame point guard Jacari Whitfield is one of four seniors who played significant roles as sophomores on the Pilots’ Division V state runner-up team in 2009. He and his teammates get a second chance at the state crown on March 25. Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

With its 61-43 win over University-San Francisco in the CIF Division V Northern regional final, the St. Joseph Notre Dame boys basketball team gained one measure of redemption. But the Pilots still have unfinished business. More redemption to be gained. On March 25, they’ll get their chance to make things right. With a trip to the Division V State title game Friday at Power Balance Pavilion in Sacramento, St. Joseph — comprised largely of seniors who have been with the varsity program for at least three years — wants to improve on its performance in the 2009 state title game where it fell 69-53 to Windward-Los Angeles. “These guys have been talking about (the 2009 state title game) for two years,” said head coach Don Lippi, whose team will face St. Bernard-Playa del Rey on March 25 at the Power Balance Pavilion in Sacramento. “We didn’t play the way I thought we should have played in that game, and I think we remember that.” The Pilots’ 2010 Northern California semifinal loss to University may have been fresher in their minds when the two teams tipped off in this year’s NorCal final, but St. Joseph quickly put that thought behind them by opening the game with a 17-2 run in the first six minutes. University would eventually get out of its early funk and mount a third-quarter comeback capped with a 13-2 run to pull to within nine points. But the Pilots did not panic and put the game away with a 15-2 run to start the fourth quarter. “I wrote ‘Settle Down’ on the board between the third and fourth quarter,” Lippi said. What they did was go down low to 6-foot-10 senior Brendan Keane, who started the final quarter with a three-point play and scored seven of his 17 points in the fourth quarter. The Northern Colorado-bound center, who had a 7-inch advantage over the tallest Red Devils player, added seven rebounds and made 8-of-13 shots in the game. “They used their strength which we just couldn’t match,” University coach Randy Bessolo said. “We had used a lot of energy getting back in the game, so it’s hard for our guys to handle such a big guy, especially when they are tired.” Keane’s height advantage will be only slightly reduced when the Pilots (26-8) face St. Bernard (26-8) for the state title. The Vikings have a pair of 6-foot-5 forwards. The Pilots enjoy a size advantage over most teams, but Keane has plenty of support. The core group of six seniors includes guards Jacari Whitfield and Dominic Lippi (the coach’s son) and forwards Evander Wood, Sean Harding, and Garrett Rich. Lippi scored a team-high 16 on four 3-pointers in the win over University. Rich and Wood combined for 20 rebounds (10 each). Whitfield, Lippi, Wood and Keane were each part of the starting five — as sophomores — in the 2009 state final against Windward. For them, it’s pretty simple: It’s one down. One to go. ✪ March 24, 2011

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afaffair amily Staying motivated at the gym can be tough. But keeping a treadmill pace next to your mom? Well ... By mike wolcott | SportStars

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March 24, 2011

K, let’s see a show of hands – how many of you joined a gym in January, fully intending to keep that long-awaited New Year’s resolution to stay in shape (OK, let’s be honest: “get” in shape), struggled through a few sessions and then found it extremely convenient to just give up on the entire idea? One, two, three, 500 … OK, lots of you. Just as we figured. The reasons are as varied as they are understandable. For some, it’s a simple matter of “It’s just too hard.” For others, it’s too much of a time commitment. And several people we contacted for this article said it was a matter of not receiving the proper instruction. “I got a great one-time training session, the trainer took me around and showed me how all the equipment worked, gave me a piece of paper to track my progress and after that, I was on my own,” said one person (their name changed to protect the guilty.) “I’d forgotten how half the equipment worked the next time I tried to use it, I was embarrassed to ask anyone else and after a few tries, I just got frustrated and gave up.” (Note to readers: The offending gym is NOT among those mentioned in this article or anywhere in this magazine either editorially or as an advertiser, so relax. You’re in good hands here.) OK, so lots of us know what it’s like to join a gym and fail. We also

couldn’t help but notice that in our few brief journeys into a gym, there were an awful lot of people who (a. seemed to know exactly what they were doing, (b. seemed to look awfully good doing it and (c. actually seemed to enjoy it. What’s their secret? Well, in many cases, it’s a simple matter of finding a gym that’s the right fit. But we found a bigger, more central strategy that seems to work just about every time it’s tried. The secret is this: In gyms as in most areas of life, family matters. SportStars recently contacted a number of health clubs and asked to be put in touch with members who, somehow, had managed to avoid the “March Sadness” that affects far too many people who had just joined in January. Right down the line, the gyms produced people who couldn’t lose the motivation – because if they did, there was another family member right there watching their back. Here are a few examples of family members who help to keep each other motivated:

Mother-daughter connection In an age when many families are having a hard time finding things to do together, much less anything constructive, Lisa Mello and her daughter, Megan Mello, of Lafayette are enjoying the best of both worlds. Both belong to ClubSport Renaissance of Walnut Creek, and “lack of

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motivation” is pretty much a foreign concept. “I have been working out since I was 18 or 19,” Lisa Mello said. “I started including my daughter when she was 10 or 11. I would sneak her in a class in hopes they would let her stay and work out, which they usually did. “When she doesn’t want to go to the gym the one thing I have always said, and still say, is that no one ever leaves the gym wishing they didn’t go. They always leave feeling great.” Of course, it’s the getting-up-and-going to the gym that can be challenging. But, not in this case. “Since I’m in high school and work it’s hard to make time for the gym. I’m always busy and I’m always tired,” Megan Mello said. “So when I have time to go I usually will want to stay on the couch. “Since my mom and I are very close and love to joke with each other, if we are being lazy we’ll joke about how we look like we’ve put on some pounds, or we make competitions out of our workouts.” Lisa Mello said it works both ways. “Megan really motivates me as well. We make gym dates and hold one another accountable. We constantly challenge each other, and do a lot of laughing and just have fun hanging out together.” And, their gym of choice makes “getting off the couch” that much easier. Both said they find ClubSport “classy and clean” — but, it’s not all work and no relaxation. “The best part is the hot tubs,” Megan Mello said.

A welcome change of pace In Dublin, there’s another parent-child duo that does a great job of keeping each other motivated. But this time, it’s a mother and her son. And here’s another twist — in this family, one gym isn’t enough. It’s the extra boost they get from a workout at Velocity Sports Performance that helps to keep them motivated.

Butch Noble

LEFT: Gaby Van Gemeren, left, and her mom Lolly have been working out together at Fit 2 The Core in Concord for a little more than a year. ABOVE: Lisa Mello, left, and daughter Megan pass the medicine ball during their workout at ClubSport Renaissance in Walnut Creek

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“The whole family has a membership at a regular gym,” said Laura Howard. “I go almost every morning for some cardio training. But it is nothing like the experience at Velocity — and nowhere near the same intensity of workout.” So what’s different about Velocity? “The classes change every day so it is never boring,” Laura Howard said. “It is challenging, but it is so gratifying to see improvement so quickly. The coaches are fantastic — they always make sure we are using correct form and keep the workouts fun.” Davis’ son, Jake, an eighth-grader at Harvest Park in Pleasanton, was actually the one who led the family in Velocity’s direction. While playing Pleasanton flag football, he went to the club for a free trial and liked it so much, his family signed him up for additional sessions. When he stopped going during football season, his dad, Dan, took his place — and encouraged Laura to join him. “It looked so hard and I was used to only running and lifting light weights,” Laura Howard said. “Finally, I agreed to try, and loved it. When football season was over, Jake returned and we’ve all been going ever since.” Since working out is a family affair, they all do a good job of making sure they live up to their end of the bargain. “Sometimes I feel lazy and don’t want to work out after a long day at school,” Jake Howard said. “But my parents encourage me to work out and I’m usually glad I did when it’s over.”

The best medicine Butch Noble

Megan Mello, right, takes a peek at her mom’s production the elliptical machine. She admits that her and her mom will often make competitions out of their workouts.

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As we’ve already seen, intra-family motivation is one way to keep the workouts rolling. Our final featured family has found another pretty effective method: humor. Go ahead and try to work out with Lolly Van Gemeren and her daughter, Gaby, at Clayton’s Fit 2 the Core; you’ll need help keeping up with their pace, and even if you manage to do that, you’ll need a lot of help trying to keep a straight face.

“I love working out with my mom because she is so funny and always able to make me laugh even when I feel like I can’t do any more squats,” said Gaby Van Gemeren. Lolly Van Gemeren and Gaby, her daughter, started working out together a little over a year as a gift from Lolly’s husband, who saw an ad saying “drop a dress size in 21 days,” Gaby recalled. “Before that I mostly walked the dog as exercise,” Lolly said, recalling a time she’d struggled to stand from a kneeling position and ended up “clawing my way up a nearby rack of clothes. “I had an epiphany that I had come to a ‘Y’ in the road. In one direction I would continue and be heavier, more out of shape and less agile or I could go the other direction and save myself the misery of being overweight, out of shape and aging.” Under the direction of Tim Rudd, both mother and daughter have found the training at Fit 2 the Core to be top-rate. Lilly said she’s quit gyms in the past because of a lack of proper training and direction, but she’s not about to let that happen again. “The reason for that is sheer terror,” she said. “I am terrified of going back to the way I was before.” And Gaby isn’t about to lose a step to her mom. “I’m afraid that if I start skipping it will become a habit,” she said. “After a while attending class was the habit and I think I would feel lazy if I didn’t go. I’d feel embarrassed to be the “lazy” family member.” Besides, at this point, they’ve got a bit of bragging rights. “After we had been working out for nine months or so, my husband and son came to a holiday workout,” Lolly said. “They had apparently assumed we were doing something really easy and girlish, only to find they had to work to keep up. They appear to have a new respect for us.” That’s what can happen when people make a resolution and stick to it — regardless of the motivation. And if it stays all in the family, so much the better. ✪

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tee2green Junior Tour of California Results GIRLS

Following are the Top 10 finish-

3 Aaron Bronis, Livermore...........71

the Junior Tour of CA’s rain-short-

T4 Hayden Shieh, Fremont.........72

T1 Mabel Wong, Oakdale............75

7 Bryson Dechambeau, Clovis....73

4 Isasbella Bosetti, Napa.............77

ers from the championship flights of ened Spring Series II Tournament at Sierra Meadows Country Club in Ahwahnee on March 19. Par was 72.

BOYS

Player Hometown ................Score

T1 Andrej Bevins, Elk Grove........69 T1 Justin Marchiano, Carmel.......69

T4 Christian Torres, Fresno.........72 T4 Chad Bell, Fresno...................72 T8 Kenny Maroney, Livermore....75 T8 James Trevino, Fresno...........75 T10 Max. Chang, San Ramon ....76 T10 Hunter Rappleye, Elk Grove...76 T10 Jonathan Lin, Fremont.........76

T10 Gian Silvestri, Alamo.............76

T1 Hannah Sodersten, Fresno....75

T1 Carly Childs, Alameda............75 T5 Meghan Shain, Bakersfield....80 T5 Nancy Xu, Sunnyvale.............80 T7 Alanna Loyd, Fresno...............81 T7 Casie Cathrea, Livermore......81 9 Alicia Binneboese, Crml Vlly.....82 10 Megan McGrew, Yolo..............86

Pinole Valley takes the Canyon Below, the Pinole Valley boys team takes a moment for an impromptu team photo before its round at Franklin Canyon Golf Course in Hercules on March 22. The team from left to right is comprised of Travis Katsui, Kyle Etcheverry, Billy McGee (who is also featured practicing his putting stroke at left), Zachary Gilmore, Michael Vroom and coach Dan O’Shea.

Need advice on the golf course, or in everday life? Build a Go-To Team We all have people in our lives that we go to when we need help or advice. These people can be friends, family or coworkers. But in the First Tee Program we call these people our “Go-To Team”. We need our Go-To Team for many different situations, whether they be everyday problems or long-lasting dilemmas. You can have a Go-To Team of one other person or a group of 10 or more! This team should be people that we are comfortable with and who feel comfortable with you. With this trust and understanding, you and your Go-To Team will be able to get through everything. No matter what conflict comes your way, the strength of your team will be able to get you the confidence you need to make decisions that are well planned and right. It is also nice to have more than one pair of eyes to see the situation — we know this is helpful on the golf course when we face a tough shot or putt, but it works the same way in life. Sometimes we get so blinded by our own

first tee, firsthand thoughts and ideas that we miss important other factors. With a GoTo Team, we can see all the sides of a situation and make a decision based on that. A Go-To Team is something that a person should always have and is one of the most important parts of the First Tee Program.

Eddie Estrada

Eddie Estrada is a senior at De La Salle High. He has been a member of The First Tee Contra Costa for six years. Contact him at eddieestrad@gmail.com.

Contributed/Franklin Canyon GC

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De La Salle narrowly escapes talented field in its own tournament Several early-season boys golf tournaments take place during March, but few with pedigree of the De La Salle Invitational. The tournament, which featured three of the Top 5 teams from the 2010 California Interscholastic Federation/Northern California Golf Association NorCal Golf Championships, took place at Diablo Country Club on March 14. The host Spartans had two players shoot par or better and wound up defeating defending NorCal champion Foothill in a one-hole playoff Will Brueckner, Acalanes for the team title. Both teams posted scores of 375 after 18 holes. De La Salle’s top individuals included Jonathan De Los Reyes (1-under 70) and Justin Pagila (71). Foothill was led by Roshan Chaekuri (70). Santa Margarita would finish in third place with a score of 379 and Monte Vista-Danville (383) and Palma-Salinas (385) would round out the top five. Individually, five players shot under below par (71) on the 6,573-yard Diablo Country Club course. Top medalist honors went to Andrei Bevins of Christian Brothers-Sacramento after he carded a 2-under 69. Bevins, who was a top 10 finisher at the 2010 NorCal championships and a top 20 finisher at the CIF state championships, closed his day one stroke ahead of four East Bay golfers who posted 1-under 70s. — SportStars

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March 24, 2011

Leaderboard Following are the team scores and Top 25 individual efforts from the De La Salle Invitational on March 14 Team results: De La Salle 375*, Foothill-Pleasanton 375, Santa Margaritia 379, Monte Vista-Danville 383, Palma-Salinas 385, Robert Louis Stevenson-Pebble Beach 390, Dublin 391, Archbishop Mitty-San Jose 393, Christian Brothers-Sacramento 395, San Ramon ValleyDanville 397, Amador Valley-Pleasanton 400, AcalanesLafayette 401, Deer Valley 402, Marin Catholic-Kentfield 406, Justin-Siena-Napa 407, Serra-San Mateo 416, Cardinal Newman-Santa Rosa 419, Chico 420, Sacred Heart Prep-Atherton 428, Moreau Catholic-Hayward 431, Athenian-Danville 470, Atwater 481, St. Patrick/ St. Vincent-Vallejo 489, Sacred Heart Cathedral-San Francisco 494. Top 25 Individuals (par 71) Andrei Bevins (Christian Brotthers)............................... 69 Will Brueckner (Acalanes)............................................. 70 Justin Shotwell (Amador Valley).................................... 70 Jonathan De Los Reyes (De La Salle).......................... 70 Roshan Chaekuri (Foothill)............................................ 70 Justin Pagila (DLS)......................................................... 71 Taylor Bromley (Dublin).................................................. 72 Drew Bender (Monte Vista)........................................... 72 Matt Pinizzotto (Palma).................................................. 72 Jay Burlison (Palma)...................................................... 72 Shotaro Ban (Mitty)........................................................ 73 Brandon Roberts (DLS)................................................. 73 Travis Rowney (Foot)..................................................... 73 Drew Nelson (Stevenson).............................................. 73 Andrew Leavitt (Santa Margarita).................................. 73 Nate Le Blanc (Cardinal Newman)................................ 74 Tom McLendon (Justin-Siena)....................................... 74 Skyler Finnell (Stev.)...................................................... 74 Beau Hossler (SM)......................................................... 74 James Ra (Mitty)............................................................ 75 Joe Furtado (Dub).......................................................... 75 Tanner Hughes (Foot).................................................... 75 R.J. Magat (MV)............................................................. 75 Kyle Bowser (MV).......................................................... 75 Troy Ditzler (SM)............................................................ 75 Tyler Collier (Chico) ....................................................... 76 Dylan Fuller (CB) ........................................................... 76 Ryan Thompson (DLS) ................................................. 76 Cody Blick (SRV) ........................................................... 76 Connor Blick (SRV) ....................................................... 76 Jonny Metz (Deer Valley-Antioch) ................................ 77 Nico Galletti (Foot) ......................................................... 77 Kevin Knox (SHP) ......................................................... 77 Taylor Manna (Chico) .................................................... 78

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Submitted Photo

Jerry Rice, center, presents a check to First Tee.

Receiver shows his giving side On March 8th, Jerry Rice presented The First Tee of Oakland with a $10,000 donation to provide transportation for over 100 underserved and at-risk after-school students to travel to and from the golf course. While it was fun for me to meet Jerry, my favorite NFL receiver, I was thrilled to accept his foundation’s generous contribution to our organization. Now, Jerry is also my favorite NFL giver! The First Tee of Oakland — and all chapters of The First Tee — depends on the generosity of others. Gifts range from volunteer hours to financial contributions to in-kind donations. Givers range from individuals to corporations and foundations, including the PGA TOUR. In fact, Jerry Rice’s 127 Foundation made the aforementioned donation with funds it received from ticket sales to the 2010 Fresh Express Classic at TPC Stonebrae in Hayward. PGA TOUR tournaments give generously to local chapters of The First Tee. Through the Tickets for Charity program, this Nationwide Tournament will provide 100 percent of ticket proceeds to go to the charity of choice such as The First Tee of Oakland, Contra-Costa, Tri-Valley or San Jose. This year’s tournament runs April 17 through April 20. Join us for a wonderful weekend of professional golf in the East Bay. Visit www. freshexpressclassic.com to learn more about the tournament and to purchase tickets that benefit The First Tee. Is it better to give than to receive? Jerry Rice might weigh both equally — at least when it comes to receiving a football — while volunteers with The First Tee believe it is better to give. Either way, those of us who run chapters of The First Tee know that our young people are bettered by receiving.

First Tee Files April Kenyon

First Tee Files is a rotating column featuring the executive directors of four Bay Area chapters of The First Tee. April Kenyon is the director of The First Tee Oakland. Find out more on each chapter at: www.TheFirstTeeContraCosta.org, www. TheFirstTeeOakland.org, www.TheFirstTeeSanJose.org and www.TheFirstTeeTriValley.org.

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extra bases

Talent-rich DFAL should provide plenty of good baseball in 2011 By Chace Bryson | Editor Jay Heeb could quite possibly be coaching the best pitcher in the East Bay. In fact, Alhambra High senior Robert Stephenson could be the best pitching prospect throughout the Bay Area. Does that lock in the Bulldogs as the favorite to win the Diablo Foothill Athletic League crown when league play starts on March 29? Maybe? Few leagues begin the year as balanced and competitive from top to bottom as the DFAL. Of the six teams, five went to the North Coast Section playoffs in 2010. Three of those five won at least one postseason game. Two, won championships. Of those two, neither call themselves the Bulldogs. Campolindo enters the year as the defending Division II champions. They return a slew of players, including league MVP Austin Rei at catcher and pitcher James Marvel who tossed a one-hit shutout against Alameda

Alhambra senior Robert Stephenson is considered on the top pitching talents in the state, and already has a perfect game under his belt this season. But he and his Bulldog teammates will still have their work cut out for them when Diablo Foothill Athletic League play begins on March 29.

Our best guess SportStars takes a stab at predicting the winners of each of the 10 East Bay baseball leagues. ACCAL: Alameda BCL-East: Head-Royce BSAL: Albany BVAL: Deer Valley DFAL: Alhambra DVAL: Clayton Valley EBAL: Amador Valley MVAL: James Logan HAAL: Bishop O’Dowd OAL: Skyline in the NCS final. Miramonte enters as the defending Division III champion boasting returning shortstop Drew Jackson and pitcher Spencer Marx. Then there’s Dublin, which returns a number of starters, including Joey Mello — a

Contributed photo

four-year senior who missed a good portion of last season due to injury. Heeb went as far to say that he thought Mello would’ve been MVP had he been able to play the whole schedule. Acalanes features a talented group of young hitters, including Grant Diede who batted a robust .434 with 13 extra base hits (3 HRs) as a sophomore in 2010. And Dougherty Valley went 14-11 a year ago and graduated just four players from a 17-man roster. “This is probably as good a league as there is,” Heeb said. “I’d put it right up there with the (East Bay Athletic League). “Week to week it’s going to be a really really good. The teams that can stay healthy and keep their best nine on the field the most are gonna have a chance.” Teams featuring potential first round draft picks in the Major League Amateur Draft in June should have a chance, too. Which means Stephenson gives Alhambra a darn good chance. The hard-throwing right-hander tossed a perfect game over Encinal in his first start

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March 24, 2011

of the season on March 1. On March 9 he struck out 20 in a win over De Anza. And on March 19 he punched out 13 in a win over Tamalpais. Clearly he hasn’t let the hype, or the forest of radar guns that pop up behind the plate when he pitches, affect his performance. It hasn’t affected the rest of the Bulldogs’ performance either. Alhambra has opened the season 6-0. “Robert has his entourage (of scouts following him), but he doesn’t want to be treated differently than anyone else,” Heeb said. “He has a great work ethic. He’s a captain. And the (extra attention) isn’t really even spoken about.” Stephenson’s presence has also made Alhambra’s No. 2 pitcher, Alex Herrera, better. But perhaps the biggest advantage the Bulldogs have in 2011 is an experienced roster that knows what to expect when the DFAL opens. “This is the best team we’ve had in awhile,” Heeb concluded “And the kids are excited to how they measure up.” ✪

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Concord softball attempts to follow-up on its historic 2010 campaign By Chace Bryson | Editor When it comes to first impressions, Megan Coddington sort of set the bar really high when she took over the Concord High softball program a year ago. All she did was lead the Minutemen to a 24-3 overall record, a perfect 12-0 run to the Diablo Valley Athletic League title, and a North Coast Section Division II championship. But it wasn’t just any NCS championship, it was the school’s first section title in any team sport. Period. All of which leaves a pretty tall order when it comes to producing an encore. “We sat down (in early March) and talked about goals for this season,” Coddington said of her 2011 group. “The kids realized that this is a different team than last year.” That doesn’t mean the goals changed, however. “They want to win league again, make it back to NCS and they want to win it all,” Coddington said. “But they realize they are going to have to work a bit harder, and they are going to have to do it on their own. Practice won’t be enough.” Things have started out well enough. The Minutemen opened the season with a nonleague victory over Pittsburg and then battled their way to a third-place finish at the Queen of the Mountain Tournament in Concord from March 10-12. Their path to third place featured an 8-1 win over Berkeley, a 5-3 win over San Ramon Valley and a 6-3 win over Arroyo in the third-place game. The team’s only loss came against Amador Valley in the semifinals. And it wasn’t pretty. “They one-runned us to death,” Coddington said of the 10-1 loss to the Dons. “They scored one in the first, then two in the second, then in the third, and so on. We scored in the last inning by squeezing in a run.” Amador Valley went on to win the tournament, shutting out Antioch 1-0 behind a no-hit pitching performance from Krista Williams. Williams struck out seven in the win and was named the tournament’s most valuable player. The Dons finished the tournament with a 5-0 record and looking like one of the best teams’ in the East Bay. Meanwhile, Coddington was able to leave the tournament with a pretty good feel for

where her team was, and where it needed to go. More than anything, she was encouraged by the Minutemen’s defense. Mickey Loveridge played error-free at shortstop over the four games, earning the tournament’s Best Infielder award. In fact, Coddington estimated her team may have made just two errors throughout the tournament. Adding to the coach’s optimism regarding her defense was the fact that she was able to move a number of different players in and out of different positions without the quality of play dropping off. “Defensively, I think we were stronger (than Amador Valley),” Coddington said. “But offensively they were stronger than us, and (Williams) was really good.” The tournament brought promising results for Concord’s pitching prospects as well. Jenna Leavitt has taken on the role of the Minutemen’s No. 1 starter, doing so in her first varsity season. Coddington has been encouraged at what Leavitt has shown in her first five starts. “She’s a consistent pitcher,” the coach said. “She’s going to get her fair share of strikeouts, but her strength is putting the ball where it’s supposed to be.” Concord will begin the defense of its DVAL title on March 29 when they host Northgate. But the first big game on the league schedule will come April 5 at Clayton Valley. That’s the team Coddington expects to put the most amount of pressure on them this season. The Eagles finished 19-6 overall a year ago fueled by the young pitching combo of Jacee Almond and Shannon Mestas. “You can never count out College Park, but I think it should come down to us and Clayton Valley,” Coddington said. “Defensively, I think we are very comparable. Pitchingwise, they are probably a little stronger.” In the end, Coddington knows her best chance at pulling off the encore lies in the fact that she’s going after it with a lot of the same cast. The Minutemen will chase a repeat with six of their nine starters returning. “Most of this team was there last year,” Coddington said. “They have that experience and the knowledge of what it takes to get there.” ✪

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Butch Noble

Concord’s Mickey Loveridge stands at the plate during a nonleague game against Pittsburg on March 7. However, it’s her glove work at shortstop that has Minutemen coach Megan Coddington excited about the team’s defense in 2011.

March 24, 2011

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A look at basic speed and agility programs

get a lot of questions about speed training for high school athletes and it seems that there is some confusion as to what an actual speed and agility program really should consist of. I think what comes to most people’s minds are ladder drills, cone drills, acceleration drills, speed treadmills, etc. But there is much more involved in developing speed and agility for your young athletes. But first let me make it understood that everything I write about in this column is geared toward young athletes of age 14 and up. So, if you have young athletes that are between the ages 10-13, the focus and prescription of exercises will be different with respect to their stage of development. Before I go into specifics of what a speed and agility program for your high school athletes should look like, let me quickly cover what the program focus should be for your 10-13 year olds. The overall focus of development in this age group is exploration and technical understanding. The training program should emphasize the correct execution of general skills such as deceleration, acceleration, force production, as well as squats, olympic lifts and other specialized movements which are important to this phase of development. Teaching these consists of simple descriptions regarding the rationale behind the execution. Program example: ■ Self myofascial release: Foam roll ■ Static stability/strength: 4-point arm/leg ■ Dynamic range of motion: Lateral monster walks ■ Movement/reactive centered: Drop ball sprints ■ Dynamic tactical-diagonal foot work, various skips ■ Multi-planar directional: Obstacle

course ■ Strength: OH squat technique, split squat, crab walk table top ■ Cool Down ROM: Hip circuits, leg raise, static hip stretch By implementing and respecting the age and motor development of your young athletes with the above general physical preparation, your young athletes are optimally being prepared for the next stage of development leading into high school. The focus of development in the 14+ stage moves from exploration to transformation. Form-based coaching becomes increasingly important as your athletes nervous and musculature system mature. The utilization of movement patterns introduced and developed in the previous stage of development become increasingly important. Your young athlete grows increasingly proficient as they become more and more familiar with functional movement patterns and aspects of numerous skills required for speed and agility. An example of a 14+ speed and agility program: ■ Self-myofascial release: Foam roll ■ Activation: Elbow push-ups, 1L glute bridges ■ Mobility: Ankle mobilization, leg swings, 3-way lunge circuit ■ Lateral active warm-up: Lateral skip, cross in front skip, cross behind skip, lateral shuffle, carioca, lateral crawl ■ Multi-directional foot contact rhythm: Ladder drills-shuffle and stick, hip switch, crossover and stick, scissors ■ Lateral acceleration/deceleration skills: Crossover with stick, etc. ■ Plyometrics: 1L medial lateral box hop with focus on landing skills ■ Strength: Clean to front squat, hip stretch, push-ups, squats, front planks, inverted rows, shoulder circuit, side plank ■ Active Stretching: Forearm to instep + hamstring As you can see that not only are many variables involved in improving your young athletes speed and agility at high school level, but it’s also important to understand that your younger athletes must properly develop the general skills with respect to their age and motor development for future athletic success.

Training Time Tim Rudd for IYCA

Tim Rudd is an International Youth Conditioning Association specialist in youth conditioning (level 3), speed and agility (level 2), and nutrition specialist (level 1). You can contact him with questions or feed- back at tim@ fit2thecore.com.

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camps + clinics BASEBALL/SOFTBALL 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: 925416-1600, thepitchingcenter.com CABERNET BASEBALL CLUB The Livermore-based club hosts The Pitching Center’s Spring Break Baseball Skills Camp 2011, April 5-7. Players ages 8-14. Lil’ Baseball also offered, March 2-May 14, for ages 3-7. 925-416-1600, www. thepitchingcenter.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 Preform! Info: 925-459-2880. City of Walnut Creek Baseball is Fun Beginner Camp. July 25-Aug. 4, 9 a.m.-noon, Mon.-Thur. at Tice Valley Park; Extended day/week available with Deluxe Sport Option. Ages 5-9. $35/$75. Registration: www. walnutcreeksportsleague.com, 925-9524450. All American Softball 2011 Softball Summer Day Camp at Alyce Norman Bryte Playfields. Girls of all ages welcome. Camp features a college Softball Q&A with our All-American staff. $250/athlete; $150/athlete when registering 6 or more at one time. Info: 916-374-1907, www.softballschool.com. BASKETBALL City of Walnut Creek Basketball is Fun Beginner Camp. July 1121 at Tice Valley Park; extended day/week available with Deluxe Sport Option. Ages 5-12. $35/$65 per week. Registration and info: www.walnutcreeksportsleague.com, 925-952-4450. Saint Mary’s College camps Spend your June and July learning fundamentals or honing your skills at McKeon Pavilion. Plenty of options are available. Registration and info: 925-631-4386, smccamps@stmarysca.edu; www.smcgaels.com. 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, 510-814-4999; www.bladium.com. CHEER CheerGyms.com Cheergyms.com offers the best clinics in California! Customize your clinic to fit your needs from basic stunting techniques or working on twist cradles out of one leg stunts, we take your team to the next level! Info: 866685-7615, www.CheerGyms.com East Bay Sports Academy Recreational and competitive athletes

benefit from training with the best, most committed coaches. Our 10,000 sq. foot facility is clean and bright with the newest equipment. Info: (925) 680-9999, www. EastBaySportsAcademy.com. ENRICHMENT Dianne Adair Programs Dianne Adair offers a wide variety of enrichment programs for your child, during the school year and throughout summer. Activities include: Home work help, 4th & Up Club, art and crafts, science, sports, and games. Summer camps include weekly field trips. Info: www.dianneadair.org. E.Nopi and Palm Academy Palm Academy’s “Summer Camp Spectacular” offers day camps with one-week or one-day programs to provide the flexibility for your busy schedule. Abrakadoodle Art Camps inspire kids to reach beyond and create art that is unique to them. Info: Palm Academy, Fremont, (510) 979-9794 or E.Nopi, Newark, (510)79ENOPI (36674) 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, socialization and self-esteem with after-school programs, personal training, team-based programming, field trips, academic enrichment, activity-based camps and parties, and nutrition support services. Info: 888-FIT 4 A KID; www.fuzefit.com EQUESTRIAN Kelly Maddox Riding Academy Develop new friendships with other horse-crazy kids. Weekly activities include learning horse colors, markings and breeds; arts and crafts; a farrier demonstration and human horse show; bareback riding and more! Info: 925-575-4818, www. KellyMaddoxTraining.com. Franklin Canyon Stables Franklin Canyon Stables in Martinez provides two covered arenas and easy access to trails. Beginning riders or experienced equestrians, we have a place for you. I provide instruction in horsemanship on the ground and in the saddle while having fun. Info: 925-2281801; http://www.kimshorsetraining.com/ franklin_canyon.html Castle Rock Arabians Activities for tweens and teenagers, where we build team spirit through various team activities on horseback. Visit the ranch by appointment. Info: 925-933-3701, www. castlerockarabians.com FITNESS Fit 2 The Core As a Youth Conditioning, Speed/Agility and Nutrition Specialist with the IYCA, Fit2-The-Core Training Systems offers an innovative approach to getting young athletes back on the field post-rehabilitation, and continuing the process by progressing

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their bodies to handle what they must endure on the field or court. Info: 925639-0907. Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness offers over 70 group classes per week. Members also enjoy our heated pool, sauna, spa, and steamroom. Massage, skincare and chiropractic services are available. Call us today for your free week pass! Info: 925-932-6400, www.wcsf.net FOOTBALL NorCal Football Camps Led by Marin Catholic High coach, Ken Peralta (San Francisco 49ers High School Coach of the Year,) Camps serve youth ages of 714. We help each child reach his full potential as a football player and young person. Info: 650-245-3608 . www. norcalfootballcamps.com Diablo Football Camps Contact and non-contact camps are available for players ages 6-14 during single weeks in both March and June. The camps take place at Freedom Basin in Oakley. Info and registration: www. diablofootball.com/camps.php; 925-6252222, www.DiabloFootball.com 49ers Three-Day Football Camp The NFL team’s headquarters in Santa Clara hosts this camp for both boys and girls from July 11-13. The contact camp is designed to improve beginning, intermediate, or advanced skill level. Info and registration: 408-562-4949, www.49ers.com/community/youth-football. html. GOLF Dave DeLong Junior Golf Camp This camp is for advanced and beginning junior golfers. Camps are designed for golfers 7-15. Camps include a 4 to 1 ratio of students to teachers where safety is the top priority as well as player development and enjoyment. Boundary Oak Course, Walnut Creek. Info: 925-997-3683; www. delonggolf.com Coach Rick Golf Learn to play on the course, where it matters with Coach Rick! Golfers of all ages can sign up for clinics offered by Coach Rick starting now throughout summer. Info: (510) 917-6442 • www. ThePersonalGolfCoach.com The First Tee-Contra Costa The First Tee Summer Camp 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. Summer camps at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Info: www.thefirstteecontracosta.org; angela@thefirstteecontracosta.org or 925686-6262 x0. The First Tee-Oakland The First Tee of Oakland has delivered The First Tee Life Skills Experience to over 262 participants. Each receive a min. 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: 510352-2002; www.thefirstteeoakland.org. The First Tee-San Jose The First Tee of San Jose develops youth through the game of golf throughout Silicon Valley. Participants learn to appreciate diversity, resolve conflicts, build confidence and set goals. We welcome participants ranging from second to twelfth grade. Scholarships available. Info: 408288-2973; www.thefirstteesanjose.org. The First Tee-Tri-Valley The First Tee of the Tri-Valley offers seasonal The First Tee Life Skills Experience Classes and Summer Camps for ages 7-17, held at the Pleasanton Golf Center on the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Summer classes begin on June 14. Junior Golf Summer Camps are held weekly. Info: 925.462.7201, www. TheFirstTeeTriValley.org Grayson Woods Golf Camp Instead of sleeping in, lounging around and channel surfing during spring break, improve your golf game at Grayson Woods. For golfers ages 6-14, you can sign up now at Grayson Woods for their Spring Break Junior Camp from April 4-7. From 9:00 am to noon every day, campers will learn the basics of putting, chipping, pitching and full swing. Come learn from Grayson Woods’ team of golf instructors and experts. Rules and etiquette are included. Cost is $240 per camper. Call the golf shop to reserve your spot: (925) 935-7277 or register online at www. golfgraysonwoods.com 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: 888526-3330, 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 Preform! Info: 925-459-2880. Vitality Lacrosse Vitality offers summer league programs in four Bay Area regions, all of which come together on July 30 for the Bay Area Summer League Championships on Treasure Island. Locations include: Marin County, Peninsula, East Bay and Petaluma. League runs six weeks starting June 20. Info: 888-501-4999, www.VitalityLacrosse. com. MARTIAL ARTS UNITED STATES KARATE SYSTEMS Adult and children’s programs, kick box 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”) at famous racetracks in the West 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 or 650-949-5609. OUTDOOR SPORTS Bear Valley Mountain Bear Valley has six camps with multiple sessions including: Soccer, Archery, Tennis, Climbing, Cycling and Day Camp. Summer Camps offer outdoor recr programs for the whole family; overnight resident skill camps and day camps, too. Day camp sessions overlap the skill camps, so each member of the family can select an activity or enjoy a day on the lakes or mountain bike trails. Age groups and activities vary by camp. For more information: www. bearvalley.com Camp Jones Gulch Check out our wide variety of Teen Adventure Camps for both boys and girls. Camp dates range from early July to Mid-August. Info: 650-747-1200, www. CampJonesGulch.org. City of Concord Skate and Swim Concord’s Skateboard Camp provides a great way to learn and improve skateboarding skills from sponsored and experienced instructors. Camps are great for all skill levels. Full day camp options combine half day skateboard camp with a half day of swimming and water games at the Concord Community Pool. Info www. concordreg.org or (925) 671-3404. University of Surfing Instructor Matt Cole offers lessons/camps in Pacifica. 650-359-1425, mattcolesurfs@ hotmail.com; http://universityofsurfing. com/index.html. SOCCER Heritage Soccer Club A Pleasant Hill/Martinez based competitive soccer club welcomes players ages 8-18. Learn new skills and hone existing ones from top flight coaching staff with years of experience spanning the high school and college ranks. June is the third annual 6v6 Blowout Tournament. Info: www.heritagesc.com. World Cup Soccer Camps With over 20 years of experience, Ruedi Graf runs one of the most respected soccer camps in the Bay Area. World Cup camps and skills clinics are offered to various ability levels on a wide variety of dates. Info: 408-354-4949, www. WorldCupSoccerCamps.com. SoccerInsight.net 2011 Summer Camp Available to ages 5-12, the SoccerInsight. net camps are offered over two weeks in June and three weeks in August. The camps are held from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. @ Paul Goode Field, The Presidio in San Francisco. Info:415-595-3760, www. soccerinsight.net. SWIMMING-DIVING Walnut Creek Swim Club WCSC is a recreational team sponsored by the City of Walnut Creek celebrating it’s 50th anniversary. Led by the experience

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camps + clinics of coach Brad Hoy, the staff is the finest in the area. WCSC believes in finding the healthy balance between competition and family fun. Info: 925-766-5664 Sherman Swim School We are a Lafayette swimming and diving school celebrating our 50th year. Our year-round schedule allows children and adults to learn, retain, and improve their swim skills with little interruption. Info: 925-283-2100, www. ShermanSwim.com California Sports Center Among the many camps offered by San Jose’s Cal Sports Center includes its Swim Summer Camps at Sunnyvale Swim Center on the campus of Fremont High. The camps are held from either 9 a.m.-noon, or 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for ages 6-14. Info: 408-732-2257, www. CalSportsCenter.com TENNIS Summer Tennis at Valley Vista ClubSport Valley Vista has successfully hosted summer tennis camps in Walnut Creek for more than 30 years, with expert instruction. Info: 925-934-4050, www. clubsports.com VOLLEYBALL U.S. Youth Volleyball League The USYVL hosts a series of Summer camps in several Northern and Southern California locations. We are 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 or www. USYVL.org. WRESTLING Creighton Wrestling The Crieghton School of Wrestling in Mountain View offers its 2011 youth and elite summer camps from June 20-July 9. Both camps take place at the JLS Middle School Wrestling Room

in Palo Alto. Guest clinicians include NCAAchampion wrestlers Tony Davis, Gerry Abas and Jordan Leen. Info: creightonschoolof wrestling@ yahoo.com; http:// CreightonSchoolofWrestling.com Community Youth Center The CYC in Concord offers three types of week-long wrestling camps. Elementary Camp for ages 5-10 runs July 5-8. All Corners Camp for ages 11-18 runs July 18-22, and Advanced Camp serves the same age group and runs Aug. 8-12. Camps are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. daily at the CYC. Info: 925-671-7070, Ext. 229, www.communityyouthcenter.com. MULTI-SPORT Cal Athletic Camps Cal Camps are offered in a variety of sports for girls and boys 5-19, with week-long, half-day, full-day and overnight options, and several choices for adults. Most camps take place on campus in Berkeley from June through August. Camp sports include: baseball, basketball, rowing/crew, field hockey, football, golf, rugby, soccer, strength & conditioning, swimming, tennis, volleyball and water polo. Info calcamps@berkeley.edu. City of Concord Skyhawks Sports Skyhawks Sports and the City of Concord have teamed up to provide safe, fun and skill-focused sports camps this summer for ages 4-12. Camps range from soccer to lacrosse to our popular multi-sport camp where kids sample three different sports (Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball) in one camp. Info: www.concordreg.org or (925) 671-3404. Renaissance ClubSport Spring and summer Sports camps are led by seasoned directors. Sports Day Camp is for children 5-12 and focuses on a different sport each day including: football, soccer, swimming, basketball, bocce,

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kickball, racquetball and karate. Spring camp runs April 4 and April 25, summer camps June 13 thru Aug. 19. Info: 925-942-6344. www. clubsports.com Cabernet Indoor Sports Go indoors for spring training: The Chevy Experience Camp at Cabernet Indoor Sports, Livermore (U5 & U6) is a 1-day soccer academy administered by top professional athletes teaching in an environment that increases retention, promotes ability, and encourages laughter and enjoyment. Info: 925455-8300, www.ziemer.com Velocity Sports Camps Looking for a location where you can not only improve your skills in a variety of sports, but do it in a team-specific environment? Look no further than Velocity Sports Performance of Dublin. Velocity’s Sports Specific Summer Camps provide campers with a fun-packed, enjoyable environment where they can increase their athleticism and develop a wider range of skills. Velocity Sports Performance is looking for boys and girls ages 8-14 who are dedicated to making themselves better as athletes. Their state-ofthe-art facility, experienced staff, and proven Velocity program will enhance confidence and individual sport related skills. Velocity’s goal is to increase sport specific athletic ability through the fundamentals of speed, power, and agility. Camps are typically 4-5 days long and begin June 20, running through mid-August. They include soccer, basketball, football, baseball and softball. The price is $200 for nonmembers per week, $150 for Velocity members or $50 per session. Gatorade is provided to all campers at no additional cost. As the largest provider of sports performance training in the nation, Velocity Sports Performance offers training in a positive, safe and professional environment. With training systems designed by their founder, coach Loren Seagrave, and his team of expert coaches, Velocity offers programs that athletes can’t find anywhere else. Athletes in every sport, at all ages and skill levels, have the ability to improve speed, agility, mobility and flexibility and energy systems, while reducing the risk of sportsrelated injuries. For more information on the camps, call (925) 833-0100.

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Advertisers Back Forty BBQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bear Valley Ski Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Big C Athletic Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Big O Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Bob Larson Sports Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Cabernet Indoor Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Cal Athletic Camps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Castle Rock Arabians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Championship Athletic Fundraising. . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Cheer Gyms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Clayton/Countrywood Fitness Centers. . . . . . . . . . 32 Club Sport Renaissance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Club Sport Valley Vista. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Coach Rick Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Community Youth Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Crow Canyon Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Crowne Plaza. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Dave DeLong School of Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Diablo Car Wash & Detail Center. . . . . . . . . . . 29 Diablo Creek Golf Course. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Diablo Futbol Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

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Odwalla. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Peninsula Building Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Rocco’s Pizza. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Saint Mary’s Athletic Summer Camps. . . . . . . . 34 Scandia Family Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Shankmeister.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Sky High Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Smokin Okie’s BBQ Joint. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 SoccerSavings.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SP Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Sutter Delta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 TGW.com The Golf Warehouse . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Pitching Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 USKS Martial Arts Concord. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 USTA Northern California. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Velocity Sport Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Vitality Lacrosse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Walnut Creek Soccer Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Walnut Creek Sports Association. . . . . . . . . . . 34 Wooden It Be Nice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

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Work out, get noticed Are you serious about taking your game to the next level? Then hit up Velocity Sports Performance in Dublin, Velocity can help you step up your game. They’ll put you through the Combine 360. No longer is the combine just for NFL hopefuls; Velocity makes it apply to athletes of all sports. Get tested on your vision, nutrition, mental toughness and communication along with specific testing for your sport. This is the perfect vehicle to allow coaches and scouts at the college level to make better decisions on which athletes to recruit. If you’re not part of the Combine 360, you’re sure to be left out. Remember that they’re the only sports training facility in the area that’s 360 certified. If you’re thinking of joining Velocity, consider that their rates are about one-third cheaper than other fitness centers in the area. Sessions start as low as $10 per session and membership is $99 per month. Go to www.velocitysp.com to learn more.

iPad 2: The Next Generation It’s lighter, it’s smaller, it’s sleeker and yet ... it’s better. It’s difficult to upstage one of the most creative products of our time but that’s exactly what the iPad 2 did. Now with FaceTime, two cameras and nine times the speed as its predecessor, Apple’s latest step feels more like one giant leap for tech nerds worldwide. Released on March 11, the iPad 2 can be yours for $499. A big cost to swallow, no doubt. But just think of it as mowing 500 lawns during spring break or washing your parents car every Saturday for the next five years. It’ll go by before you know it. Be sure to hit up apple.com for more info.

Heaven-sent headband Working out should be fun and effortless. The last thing you want is sweat and sunscreen getting in your eyes and irritating your skin. Pick up a Halo Headband and your problems are over. Halo Headbands are designed to keep sweat out of your eyes whether you’re working out, running or cycling. A worthy investment for just $12.95, these headbands will keep you focused on the task at hand. Also, stay tuned for Halo Headphones coming soon! Go to www. haloheadband.com to order yours now!

SportStars partners with McCovey’s We’re proud to announce our partnership with McCovey’s Restaurant in Walnut Creek. They get a kick out of honoring athletes just as much as we do, and that’s why we’re partnering with them to honor athletes four times throughout the year. Winners will be invited for a banquet for themselves and their families at No. 44’s downtown restaurant at the end of each season. Coaches, teammates and friends are encouraged to come out as well in support of these athletic rockstars. Also, if you’re looking for a place to watch the Giants season opener, we think McCovey’s is the primo, number uno choice. Former Giants pitching great Vida Blue will be the special guest at McCovey’s on March 31 as the G-Men begin their title defense.

Calling all cheer coach applicants Northgate High School in Walnut Creek is looking for a Cheerleader and Dance Advisor/Head Coach. So if you or anyone you know has what it takes to teach a squad how to stunt, dance and cheer, send your resume and qualifications to nghsad@gmail.com or call (925) 938-0900 ext. 3511 with questions. For more info, hit up www.northgatebroncos.org .

Hook, Line and SportStars Get ready for the fishing season by hitting up the megafishing superstore. The Bass Pro Shops location in Manteca is hosting the TMBC Boat Show 2011 and other events to help you get schooled on fishing. Experts Dan York, Kevin Brock and Jasson Oliver, amongst others, will be giving you tips on towing and organizing your boat, using the latest Hummingbird electronics and fishing locally. It’s fun for the whole family as even the little ones will enjoy making crafts. Other cool seminars include cooking outdoors and learning how to hike Half Dome in one day. Events take place on March 26 and 27 along with every Wednesday in April. Visit www.basspro.com to learn more. — Erik Stordahl

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March 24, 2011

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photo finish AND 1 Gemeny Givens of St. Joseph Notre Dame-Alameda goes up strong in traffic and is fouled hard across the arm by University-San Franciscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Will Carroll during the California Interscholastic Federation Division V Northern regional championship March 19 at Folsom High School. Givens finished with eight points for the Pilots, who won the game 61-43, avenging a NorCal semifinal loss to the Red Devils a year ago. The junior guard was just a freshman in 2009 when St. Joseph last reached the CIF Div. V state championship. He played 58 seconds of that game, a 69-53 loss to WindwardLos Angeles. Givens will join six Pilots seniors who hope to make good on one more chance at redemption when they play for the state title against St. Bernard-Playa del Ray on March 25. PHOTO BY CHRIS AUSTRIA

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March 24, 2011

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