NorCal Issue 120, August 2016, March 2017 by Sport Stars Magazine

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NORCAL EDITION VOL. 8 ISSUE 129

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Cal-Hi Sports’ California Boys & Girls Top 10 Basketball Rankings

Vanessa Strong and Freedom softball out to make some noise

EXCLUSIVE NorCal Softball Preseason Top 20 Rankings

in the magazine

BAKER has the goods Jesuit’s Darren Baker has a big-league background and his promising future begins as he pushes to get the Marauders a league title. Pg. 24

NorCal Softball Top Players to Watch in 2017

EXCLUSIVE NorCal Baseball Preseason Top 20 Rankings

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NorCal Baseball Top Players to Watch in 2017

EXCLUSIVE: NorCal Boys & Girls Basketball Top 20 Rankings

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a look at the biggest stories from the Cal-Hi SportStars Network

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Early season baseball & softball coverage as the action blasts off

New state boys & girls basketball rankings each Monday

State basketball playoff preview — get ready for the postseason!

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hoyle

FOLSOM - SOCCER - SENIOR Hoyle scored a pair of goals in each of the Bulldogs’ first two Sac-Joaquin Section Division I playoff matches and added an assist as part of a quarterfinal victory. The postseason goals upped Hoyle’s team-leading goal total to 18 to go along with nine assists. Folsom improved to 20-0 and remained ranked number one in the state with playoff wins over ArmijoFairfield and Tokay-Lodi to set up a showdown with Sheldon-Sacramento. In the playoffs, the Bulldogs have recorded a pair of shutouts while scoring nine goals and have outscored their opponents 82-9 for the season. Hoyle has scored in 14 of Folsom’s 20 games and recorded at least one point in 16 games. Fellow senior captain Eric Mattice has added 12 goals and eight assists, including a pair of hat tricks. Together, the pair have accounted for more than half of the team’s assists and 37 percent of Folsom’s goals.

honorable mention DEVYN GILFOY: The Liberty-Brentwood soccer forward had an assist as well as the North Coast Section championship-deciding goal in a 3-2 Div. I finals win over Carondelet-Concord on Feb. 25. The Pepperdine-bound Gilfoy finished the year with 19 goals and 17 assists for a Lions team which went 20-1-1.

ABIGAIL MUSE: A 6-foot-1 freshman post for the HeritageBrentwood girls basketball team, Muse scored a team-high 22 points — including the layup that broke a 47-47 tie — in a 5047 NCS Div. I quarterfinal win over Mt. Eden-Hayward on Feb. 24.

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JOIN OUR TEAM PHONE 925.566.8500 FAX 925.566.8507 EDITORIAL Editor@SportStarsOnline.com Editor Chace Bryson • Chace@SportStarsOnline.com Staff Writer Jim McCue • JimMcCue16@gmail.com Contributors Bill Kolb, Matt Smith, Clay Kallam, Dave Kiefer, Tim Rudd, Trevor Horn Copy Editor Bill Kruissink Photography Bob Larson, Jonathan Hawthorne, James K. Leash, Phillip Walton, Doug Guler, Berry Evans, III Marketing/Events Ryan Arter CREATIVE DEPARTMENT Art@SportStarsOnline.com Production Manager Mike DeCicco • MikeD@SportStarsOnline.com PUBLISHER/PRESIDENT Mike Calamusa • Mike@SportStarsOnline.com

Trenton Denholm, Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills

all SUNSHINE and STRIKEOUTS W ell, NorCal fans, we may have made it to spring. It didn’t seem like it would be possible after the monsoon that was February. Our reward for surviving is the onset of new baseball and softball seasons — and the basketball state playoffs, state wrestling championships and so on — with the promise of sunny afternoons, sunflower seeds and some of the best competition around. I’ve written it here in previous editions, but I hope a plan for baseball and softball regional or state playoffs comes to fruition one of these years. California has been one of the most fertile grounds for talent in both sports for several years, and players and fans deserve a chance to see a state tournament. But we’d simply settle for NorCal and SoCal tournaments at this point. C’mon, CIF. Make it happen. And since this is our baseball/softball preview, it feels like a good time for me urge the rest of the world to leave baseball alone. You may have followed the national conversation recently over how Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred and other officials are pushing to find ways to speed up the game and make it more accessible and entertaining to reach a younger generation of fans. Most of the proposed ideas didn’t stick — including the most ridiculous suggestion of using the international tie-breaker (each team placing a runner at second base to begin an inning) to help decide extra-inning games. The actual four pitches involved in an intentional walk did bite the bullet though. I can understand Major League Baseball’s desire to expand its demographic and keep with the NFL and NBA. And I’ll readily admit that three hours and 45 minutes is a bit much for a nineinning game. But small fixes aside, the powers that be just need to let baseball be baseball. The game was built to be played at a leisurely pace, and that’s part of its charm. It may not be able to tear a 20-something away from his or her smartphone or tablet, but it’s OK to embrace and serve the audience that’s already there. And we know it’s there because fans still show up to games — even younger ones — and the TV contracts are still making the owners boatloads of money. I realize I’m not the first to make that argument, and it’s not likely to sway anyone who isn’t a baseball or softball fan. But they are great games, and California continues to produces some of the best athletes to play them. So take a moment — it doesn’t have to be three hours — and dive into the new season with us. ✪

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NorCal HS Cycling League Returns For Granite Bay Grinder On the weekend of April 8-9, more than a thousand high school mountain bikers will be riding the course around Folsom Lake in Granite Bay for their fourth official race of the season. Dubbed the Granite Bay Grinder, this race course is known for having it all: Plenty of singletrack, several technical sections, mud, sand, big beautiful oak trees, tall grass and a gorgeous view of the now full-to-the-brim Folsom Lake. Placer Valley Tourism, in conjunction with the NorCal High School Cycling League, are thrilled to be teaming up to bring this race back to Placer Valley where the riders and spectators alike always have a blast. “We are really excited to get back to Granite Bay for our annual high school mountain bike race,” NorCal League Executive Director Vanessa Hauswald said. “The community here is incredibly supportive of youth cycling and in so many ways it feels like we are coming home when we are at Granite Bay for our event.” Currently they are expecting 1,100 student-athletes to race over the course of this two-day event. With numbers that large, races are broken down into 11 categories of competition with four girls races and seven boys races. Hauswald also wanted to give a big shout-out and thank you to fellow event producer Bill Driskill, owner of TBF Racing, for generously sharing this amazing venue with the NorCal League and for his outstanding support of the local high school riders with his own series. Come check out these fearless high school mountain bikers as they rip through the course in hopes of making it to the podium. Folsom Lake State Recreation area does charge a $12 fee per vehicle at the gate; however admission to the race is free. There will be food trucks and merchandise booths on site. We hope to see you there! ✪

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High Schools Splash Into Swim Season at Woodcreek Invite Woodcreek High Aquatics will host the 17th Annual High school Swim Invitational at the Roseville Aquatics Complex from March 10-11. This meet is designed to serve as an ice-breaker to open another great swim season for many Northern and Central California high school teams. Placer Valley Tourism is thrilled to be partnering with Woodcreek Aquatics again to bring this exciting invitational back to the RAC. “Last year we had 21 teams and 1,000 athletes participating at this fun event, and this year we are expecting an even bigger turn out with 26 teams,” Woodcreek Aquatics president TJ Kay said. “We always have a wonderful time at this meet. We mix it up a bit with fun races and a coveted team spirit award for the team that displays the best school spirit.” The meet starts at noon on March 10 for a day of trials. On Saturday the finals for the top 24 individuals per event, and top 16 relays per event, will begin at 10 a.m. Admission is $3 and there will also be a two-day program available to purchase for $4. At the end of the month, Woodcreek Aquatics will host another huge meet, the NorCal High School Swim Championships on March 31 and April 1. This meet is one that swimmers have to prequalify for in order to compete. This Trials/Finals meet aims to promote top-notch competition with the best high school swimmers in Northern California. Mark your calendars for both events and come watch as these swimmers splash into some great competition. The RAC is located at 3051 Woodcreek Oaks Blvd. in Roseville. ✪ —All copy and photos provided by Placer Valley Tourism.

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Rankings Get Real Under New Rule B ack in the days before the internet, when go Div. III, etc.. But if the CIF approves the new Cal-Hi Sports was a weekly newsletter that method, each section that does not use competipeople received in the mail and a wire sertive equity divisions would be required to rank its teams in order so that the CIF would have comvice for daily newspapers, there was only a handful petitive equity divisions for the NorCal playoffs. of people in the entire nation who compiled high If those guidelines were being used for this school team rankings. current basketball season, for example, the CIF In addition to myself, there was Doug Huff of North Coast Section would be asked to rank its the National Prep Poll, Dave Krider of USA Today teams after the NCS championships for CIF state and Barry Sollenberger of the National Sports and regional placements. Without knowing for News Service, plus a few others from bigger states sure, of course, which teams will win beforehand, around the nation. the NCS boys rankings might be No. 1 St. Joseph Today, there are rankings of all shapes and Notre Dame-Alameda, No. 2 Salesian-Richmond, sizes, some done by computers and some not. No. 3 Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland, No. 4 Dublin, No. However, in the 5 Heritage-Brentwood, No. 6 De La Salle-Concord, future, more and No. 7 St. Patrick-St. Vincent-Vallejo, and so on. more CIF section None of the top three are in NCS Division I. commissioners The point is that whichever division each team may have to be is from in each section is not going to matter for doing rankings the CIF NorCal playoffs anymore. It could be an themselves. NCS Div. IV team going to Div. I or an NCS Div. I This is all going to Div. II. Note that this new way of seeding part of the CIF’s teams, by the way, would have no impact on the greater desire to Open Division. Teams moving up to the Open push the concept Division would still be moved up by the same of competitive criteria. equity-based playThe NCS already has some resemblance to off divisions in competitive equity divisions with teams going up all sports. Very soon it may be a new rule that CIF to higher divisions and the same is true of the Sacregional and state championship playoff divisions Joaquin, but neither one does competitive equity in basketball, soccer and volleyball (boys and girls) completely. And in the CIF Central Coast Section, will be determined by competitive equity — which there’s an Open Division but after that there are is how the CIF football bowl games have been enrollment-based divisions. This year’s Palmadetermined for the last two seasons. Salinas team, therefore, couldn’t be in Div. IV for A first reading of a new CIF bylaw about this boys hoops anymore. issue was done at last January’s CIF Federated If the new rules go into effect, the section playCouncil and it should be an action item at the next Jadé Smith and St. Joseph Notre Dame-Alameda would potentially be a offs don’t need to change, but each section would meeting in May. It may take effect as early as next Division I team instead of Division IV if the 2016 CIF NorCal Regionals were need to figure out rankings of its qualified regional season for the three sports involved. purely drawn on competitive equity. teams in a very short time frame between the end The rankings part of it comes into play because of its section playoffs (often on a Saturday night) not all CIF sections, especially in Northern California, are using competitive equity like they and the NorCal/SoCal seeding meetings (the very next morning). are in Southern California, particularly in the CIF Southern Section, which is the state’s largEven CIF commissioners would then find out something those of us who’ve done rankings est by far. If you recall in football, there were several instances in which a section champion for many years know all too well: Upsets are not welcome. They just cause too much digging from a lower numbered division was placed higher on the NorCal bowl board than a section to figure out a pecking order that makes the most sense. champion from a higher numbered division. An easy example is Sac-Joaquin Section Division We’re pretty sure some of the CIF commissioners aren’t going to be too thrilled about doIV champion Manteca being seeded higher than Sac-Joaquin Section Division III champion ing these rankings, either. If you need a few pointers, however, feel free to call. ✪ Oakdale based on a head-to-head win. As of this season in boys and girls basketball, such a situation wouldn’t happen. The Div. II section champ, for example, would go to Div. II for the NorCal regionals, Div. III would 10

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Mark Tennis is the co-founder of Cal-Hi Sports, and publisher of CalHiSports.com. Contact him at markjtennis@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter, @CalHiSports.

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TOP 10 STATE BASKETBALL RANKINGS

Jordan Brown of Woodcreek-Roseville

Nikki Mayoral of Mission Hills-San Marcos

Through games of Saturday, Feb. 25 BOYS 1. (3) ▲ Bishop Montgomery-Torrance 26-2 Team that lost its first game to Bishop O’Dowd showed what it could do at full strength with 70-63 win over previous No. 1 Sierra Canyon in CIF Southern Section Open Div. semifinals.

Through games of Saturday, Feb. 25 GIRLS 1. (1) — Archbishop Mitty-San Jose 23-2 The Monarchs have been No. 1 for more than a month and should be the top seed for the CIF NorCal Open Div. if they win CCS Open Div. crown.

2. (4) ▲ Mater Dei-Santa Ana 31-1 Monarchs just as easily could be No. 1 entering CIFSS Open Div. final after they avenged only loss with 83-80 OT win over Chino Hills in CIFSS Open Div. semis.

2. (2) — Clovis West-Fresno 28-2 It’s been smooth sailing for the Golden Eagles in the CIF Central Section. There’s a chance they could be sent to NorCal for Open Div., but likely to be No. 1 seed for CIF SoCal Open Div..

3. (1) ▼ Sierra Canyon-Chatsworth 27-2 Despite loss to Bishop Montgomery, Trailblazers will be the No. 3 seed in the SoCal Open Division. If they want to win state title, they’ll have to win a semifinal game on the road.

3. (3) — Long Beach Poly-Long Beach 24-3 Head coach Carl Buggs’ girls advanced to CIF Southern Section Open Div. final after 67-53 triumph in semifinals over TroyFullerton.

4. (2) ▼ Chino Hills 29-2 With Melo and Gelo Ball, the Huskies helped attract more than 10,000 to the Galen Center for the CIFSS Open Div. semifinals.

4. (4) — Mission Hills-San Marcos 27-2 This team is still fourth and still No. 1 in San Diego Section and looking good to win San Diego Open Dvision. Only losses still to WCAL teams Mitty and Sacred Heart Cathedral.

5. (5) — Woodcreek-Roseville 27-2 We have not changed our state rankings to match Sac-Joaquin Section Div. I seedings even though Timberwolves are No. 2 behind Sheldon. 6. (6) — Birmingham-Lake Balboa 26-3 The Patriots earned their first trip to a championship game in the top Div. of the L.A. City Section playoffs after they got past Taft-Woodland Hills 80-73. 7. (8) ▲ Sheldon-Sacramento 27-2 Entering Sac-Joaquin Div. I semis, both the Huskies and Woodcreek have lost only to Chino Hills in similar games and have one additional loss. 8. (11 ▲ St. Augustine-San Diego 25-4 Top seed in CIF San Diego Section Open Div. moves up after previous No. 7, No. 9 and No. 10 all lost last week. 9. (13) ▲ Westchester-Los Angeles 24-8 Forget the losses. Comets just beat Fairfax to avenge two earlier losses to that team to reach the L.A. City Open Div. final. 10. (9) ▼ Santa Margarita-Rancho SM 21-8 Earlier wins over Roosevelt-Eastvale and Fairfax-Los Angeles, plus losing by just three to Bishop Montgomery in CIFSS Open Div. quarterfinals, keeps Eagles in top 10.

5. (5) — Carondelet-Concord 26-4 Top-seeded team in North Coast Section Div. I playoffs also would be first team on NorCal Open Div. board out of the NCS, which may have four in the bracket. 6. (6) — Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland 25-3 Top-seeded team in NCS Div. III bracket not a favorite to win title like Carondelet in Div. I and Cardinal Newman in Div. IV because Salesian-Richmond is No. 2 seed. 7. (7) — Cardinal Newman-Santa Rosa 26-3 If Cards win NCS Div. IV title, they’ll be in Open Div. but will they be one of the top four seeds? At seeding meeting, St. Mary’s-Stockton may end up with stronger argument to get it. 8. (11) ▲ Harvard-Westlake-North Hollywood 25-3 Wolverines beat No. 2 seed Etiwanda (which was 26-1) to earn a spot opposite Long Beach Poly in CIFSS Open Div. final. 9. (8) ▼ Sacred Heart Cathedral-SF 17-7 Winning by just 70-66 over Eastside College Prep-East Palo Alto in CCS Open Div. cost the Irish one spot in this week’s rankings. 10. (13) ▲ Pinewood-Los Altos Hills 23-2 Panthers were set to play Sacred Heart Cathedral in CCS Open Div. semis as this rankings package was being written.

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rent Weaver, the Mayor of the City of Redding, is personally inviting you to take the “Mayor‘s Mountain Bike Challenge” and enjoy the Greater Redding Area’s vast trail system — which ranges from flat paved rail trails to steep and rugged single track. The Mountain Bike Challenge is on now through May 18th. Riders will discover the beautiful and diverse backcountry trails of Redding on their mountain bike. If you’re interested, download the Mountain Bike Challenge Passport and select the category best for you. Options include Beginner, Intermediate, and/or Advanced Mountain Bike Trails. First step: Get the Passport. For those living in the Redding area, passports and maps may be picked up at most local bike shops. If one is planning a trip for the Challenge, the passports can be downloaded at HealthyShasta.org. Complete and drop off your passport at the Turtle Bay Visitors Center located at 844 Sundial Bridge Dr. (Open W-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sat-Sun, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.), or the City of Redding Recreation Department at City Hall located at 777 Cypress Avenue (Open M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.). In order to be part of the prize raffle, the passport must be turned in before Friday, May 19. All contestants successfully completing a category of rides will receive a bike water bottle and stickers commemorating the event. In addition, your name will also be entered in the challenge raffle with gift certificates for each category. There is a special prize for those who complete all the challenge rides in each of the categories on their Passport.

ADDITIONAL AREA RIDES ›› Lemurian Shasta Classic | April 29 | Whiskeytown The Lemurian Shasta Classic Mountain Bike Race was founded in 1987 and is most known for its epic loop, huge climbs and long, technical descents. Organizers attempt to create a challenging difficult Long Course while also providing intermediate and easy options. Medals and prizes are awarded across all categories, and all racers receive a finishing pin, water bottle and a post-race meal. Register or learn more: shastalemurian.com/ ›› Anderson Century | May 13 | Anderson The Enterprise Lions Club hosts the 13th annual Anderson Century Bike Ride held at the Anderson River Park. Every level of cyclist is offered something in this fundraiser that gives to programs which support youth activities, provides vision screening and scholarships to Shasta County Area students. Register or learn more: www.andersoncentury.com.

›› Fall River Century, July 15, 2017, McArthur Enjoy a challenging ride with exceptional views of two of California’s famous volcanoes: Mt Shasta and Lassen Peak. Sag wagons, well-stocked rest stops and options of 200K, 100-mile, 100K, and 25-mile rides. This year the century and double metric routes have modified to take advantage of newly widened and rebuilt Highway 299. www.fallrivercentury.com ›› Wildcat GranFondo | October 14th | Palo Cedro With its roots in Italy, GranFondo loosely translates to “big ride.” It’s meant to be a group ride and tour all in one. Cyclists ride together for camaraderie and are provided ride support along with food and refreshments before, during and after the ride. Six different ride options include 15-, 25-, 50-, 70-, 106- and 123-mile options. Register or learn more: www.thewildcatgranfondo.com ✪ —Information and photos provided by Visit Redding.

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Stuck With Sacramento

Why are the state basketball championship games in Sacramento? And why are they so expensive? It costs a lot to get in and a lot to park, and if you’re driving from the Bay Area, you have to pay for gas. Why don’t they have the games at Oracle Arena, which would be a lot closer for most people? A.W., Milpitas ou’ve probably heard the phrase “follow the money,” and that’s all you have to do here. First, though, you have to realize that the California Interscholastic Federation, which runs the state championships for all sports, and also oversees high school sports in general, needs to generate revenue to pay its staff and run money-losing championships such as cross country. So the CIF has to make as much money as it can off of football (the big dog) and basketball, which are really the only sports with the potential to produce a large amount of profit.

Television rights are good, but in Southern California, some of those contracts have ended, so there’s more pressure on CIF to make money by selling tickets to state championships. (Section championship ticket sales go back to each section, so the CIF doesn’t see a penny from the Central Coast Section football or basketball playoffs.) Ideally, the state basketball championships would be played in a 10,000-seat arena (or thereabouts) in a major metropolitan area that would draw fans from all over the state. Unfortunately, those arenas are usually college arenas and colleges are not willing to sign a guaranteed contract for a weekend that might conflict with some of their own events. That leaves either high school sites or big arenas, and high school sites just don’t make it when it comes to having a state championship atmosphere. So the CIF asks all the big arenas in the state – Oracle, Staples, etc. – to bid on the state championships, and inevitably, the big arena in Sacramento (now Golden1) comes back with the low bid. Why? Because there’s less demand for arena events in Sacramento, and it’s also cheaper to operate an arena there than it is in the big cities. (The CIF has tried putting the state championships in Bakersfield, away from the population centers, but that didn’t work at all. Almost no one came, and despite the low price, it still didn’t pencil out as well as the old Arco, or now Golden1.) The big arenas are still expensive, so the ticket prices have

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to be high to cover the costs, and the parking price is set by the arena, and that’s pure profit for the operators, so that number will be high as well. In terms of the players, it doesn’t really matter, as they get to play on the same court that Steph Curry and LeBron James play on, and the devoted fans are going to make the trip no matter where the game is. But it’s certainly true that fans from L.A. are a lot less likely to drive to Sacramento than they are to Inglewood, and fans from the Bay Area are a lot less likely to drive to Sacramento than they are to Oracle. But the bottom line is that when all the numbers are put together, the CIF’s best deal is Sacramento – so that’s where the games are played, and have been for most of the past two decades. There is, however, a ray of hope down the road. It’s possible that Joe Lacob’s new arena for the Warriors in San Francisco will a) be scrambling for renters and thus lower the cost, and b) trying to build up goodwill by supporting high school sports, and thus the state championships might go to San Francisco. Works for me. ✪ Clay Kallam has been an assistant athletic director and coached multiple sports and a handful of high schools throughout the Bay Area. To submit a question for Behind the Clipboard, email him at clayk@fullcourt.com

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Junior Pitcher Vanessa Strong Leads Talented Freedom Roster With Plenty Of Fuel In The Fire Following Its 2016 Section Title eally, in retrospect, it was love at first sight. The diamond. The ball. The strike zone. The target. And the batter, of course. Don’t forget the batter. For Vanessa Strong, all of these things converged to stir her soul in the very first moments her aunt Sara Rhoads put a softball in her hand and started teaching her the basics of hurling it underhand and fast toward the big glove several feet away. “There’s nothing like it,” she says. “I was hooked immediately.” She was 6 then. Today, the Freedom-Oakley ace is a junior at one of the East Bay’s most formidable softball programs and one of the best pitcthers in the North Coast Section. For hitters, a day against Strong is usually a weak one. A year ago, she started 20 of Freedom’s 22 games, and won 17, including a 1-0, eight-inning win over Foothill in the North Coast Section Division I championship game. She earned Player of the Year honors from both the East Bay Times and San Francisco Chronicle. She has 31 victories (and nine losses), a 1.98 ERA and 319 strikeouts in two varsity seasons and could have most of Freedom’s pitching records to herself by the time she’s finished in 2018. “She’s a unique talent,” coach Brook Russo said. But Strong’s rising star hasn’t changed her at the core, where she remains the little girl who just loves being on that pitching rubber with ball in her hand, hitter at the plate and a one-on-one battle looming. “It’s been a passion,” she says. “It’s still a passion.”

Story by James G. Kane Photos by Phillip Walton Follow us on Twitter & Instagram, and like us on Facebook!

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Clockwise from left: Faith Derby, Marissa Gonzales, Vanessa Strong and Bri Ibarra.

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To that end, she celebrated her ascension to the higher echelon of the Bay Area pitching chain — she had 176 strikeouts and allowed 95 base runners in 127 innings, and opponents hit .174 against her — by going to work. “A day or two” after pitching Freedom to its first NCS crown since 2008, she grabbed a ball and headed to the circle. “Oh my God, it’s all the time,” catcher Faith Derby says of her battery partner’s practice habits. “It’s at least an hour every day. I don’t know, maybe more. It’s all we ever do. She’s always working at it, always trying to get better.” Strong concurs that she’s not one to reflect and look back. She mostly talks only of what lies ahead, a defining personality in most athletic greats, and she says she has an additional source of motivation beyond her passion. The spirit of Hayward police Sgt. Scott Lunger, a Falcons assistant coach slain during a traffic stop in July 2015, is always close to Strong and the team. When Freedom completed it’s journey to the crown in their first full season without Lunger, “we thought of him immediately,” Strong says. Now with a new season dawning, they think of him again. Russo acknowledges that each campaign is its own unique journey, not tied to previous or future ones. But the truth for this group of Freedom players is that Lunger remains a part of their identity. The team’s defense, part of the team’s foundation to success, routinely plays mistake-free, all thanks to drills designed by Lunger that they still practice over and over. When they’re finished, the put the balls back into the practice bucket dedicated to him. In the dugout, players and coaches engage in knowing glances and observations that lets them know that Lunger is still there, just from a different place. “It’s just a very special group. It’s one of the best groups I’ve ever been able to coach,” Russo says. “As a group, they drew really close because of what happened, and they’re a mature bunch. When they show up, it’s not to fool around. They show up to go to work, and that translates onto the field when it’s time to play.” Russo’s own journey in the days since the Lunger tragedy have entailed their own unique challenges. A former youth coach, Russo said Lunger’s friendship and influence were essential in helping him get there. He was a member of Lunger’s wedding party. “Personally, as a coach, it’s been very, very tough,” he says. “Something comes up, or something happens that we normally would discuss, I always want to pick up the phone and reach out to him. We still just kind of go one day at a time with it. But the girls know the best way to honor him is to play the way they play.” The truth for the Falcons also is this: They can win a game many ways. “All we need is a spark,” senior Marissa Gonzales said. “Once we get a spark, then we rally. A lot of times it happens at the end.” So it was in the NCS title game. Freedom broke a scoreless deadlock in the eighth inning of that contest when Allyson Ferreira doubled in Mackinsey Nelson for the run that gave the Falcons their first NCS crown since 2008. Nelson pinch ran for Kalissa Heihn, who had opened the eighth inning with a single.

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“We won a lot of games like that,” Russo says. “Our pitching and defense are going to keep us in the game, and then we seem to get timely hitting.” Freedom has no shortage of offensive weapons. Derby led the Bay Valley Athletic League with five home runs and 23 RBIs a season ago, and she has clubbed eight with 44 RBIs over the past two seasons. The job she’s done defensively behind the dish hasn’t gone unnoticed, either. She’s worked with Strong for the past three seasons, handles all six of Strong’s pitches — peel drop (fastball), drop, a rise, a curve, a screwball/drop and change-up — with equal aplomb. Allyson McBroom had a team-best 27 hits and batted .409. She scored 13 runs and drove in another 15. A first baseman, shortstop and catcher, McBroom didn’t make an error all last season in 102 chances. Then there’s Allyson Ferreira, who contributed 24 hits, 12 RBIs and 13 runs. She hit .358 in 73 plate appearances and has 41 hits and a .369 average in two varsity seasons. Senior infielder Bri Ibarra provided 21 hits with 12 runs scored and 12 driven in. Gonzale�� s, a senior, had 26 hits last season, and her .433 average was a 201-point improvement from her cumulative mark over her first two season. Not to be overlooked, Strong hit .423 with four doubles and 13 RBIs, too. If the offense doesn’t click right away and hitters make contact against Strong, Freedom’s defense is just as capable of winning games. “We don’t make errors,” McBroom says. “And we have pretty good range.” In other words, Freedom can win a game a lot of ways. In the end, however, Strong is the heart that pumps the blood. Which is the way she’s always wanted it, ever since she was 6 and Rhoads, a former Antioch High star, gave Strong her first lesson. “I loved being in control and being involved in every play,” Strong says. “I loved being able to have a big role in my team winning. I still love it.” The velocity of Strong’s pitches, not to mention the variety of them, are impressive weapons to begin with, but her teammates and coaches say they aren’t her biggest strengths. Strong agrees. “It’s my focus and demeanor,” she says. “If I give up a hit or something goes wrong, I have to keep it together, because the team is looking for that. If I keep it together, than we’ll keep it together.” Says Russo: “The girls take their cue from her. And she’s just so steady. It’s hard to beat that.” In 2017, it figures only to be harder. ✪

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Sheldon Shoots For 3 Sheldon softball coach Mary Jo Truesdale asks each team to “leave a legacy.” This year’s Huskies team—Truesdale’s 20th since starting the program when the school opened in 1996—has an opportunity to both leave a legacy and continue a dynasty. Sheldon has won the last two Sac-Joaquin Section Division I championships, and a significant group of key contributors to those titles returns with a focus on becoming the first Sheldon team to three-peat as section champs. “We want to win every game we play because no one sets out to lose,” Truesdale said. “But these girls understand that it’s not how you start, but how you finish.” An extremely wet winter has kept the Huskies and most area teams from preparing for the season in the way they are accustomed to, but Sheldon has been hard at work in strengthening bonds as much as refining swings. “We are anxious to get on the dirt and to get the cobwebs out,” Truesdale said. Sheldon’s annual reload of talent includes a group of returners with close ties to the program’s recent titles. UC Santa Barbara-signee Maci Fines, a three-year starter at second base, will move to shortstop this year to replace graduated sister Jordan. The team’s leadoff batter, Fines hit a team-high .518 last year and was among the section leaders in hits (58) and runs (50). Junior Shea Moreno will also be shifting positions on the infield, moving from third base to behind the plate to replace graduated Jessica Scott at catcher. Moreno’s skills at the plate (.465, 47 hits, 2 HR, 33 RBI) will be a huge bonus to her receiving skills behind it. She will catch senior Taliyah Miles, who compiled a 23-2 record and 1.78 ERA as the Huskies’ workhorse en route to the 2016 SJS title. Miles’ workload could be lessened if sophomore Grace Owen is called on to pitch more after posting a 6-0 record with 3 saves and a 0.38 ERA in her freshman campaign. Senior captain Sarah Brown will take over at third and junior Juju Malana will assume a leadership role in the outfield. Both will see an increase in responsibility and playing time as the Huskies’ transition begins anew. ✪ — Jim McCue

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1. PIONEER-SAN JOSE (25-3) It all starts with pitching and Holly Azevedo (pictured right) is arguably NorCal’s best coming into 2017. Just how good is the UCLA-bound fireballer? Over the last two seasons, she’s surrendered just six earned runs in 361 innings while compiling 587 strikeouts and 53 wins. But no Central Coast Section titles. The Mustangs have twice been stung by Archbishop Mitty-San Jose in the Div. II final. Pioneer graduated just one senior off of last year’s 25-win squad, and return firepower up and down the lineup — including Azevedo, who batted .482 with 20 RBI as a junior. The Mustangs also return Sydney Solis (.376, 28 RBI), Brooke Niewoehner (.489, 25 RBI) and Lauryn Garcia (.375, 21 RBI).

2. SHELDON-SACRAMENTO (30-2) The two-time defending Sac-Joaquin Section Division I champions return ace Taliyah Miles (23-2, 1.78 ERA) and plenty of offense in Maci Fines (.518, 58 hits, 50 runs) and Shea Moreno (.465, 33 RBI). UCSBsignee Fines will move from 2B to SS, and UCLA-bound Moreno will shift from 3B to C as the Huskies make room for more talent. Add a second arm in sophomore Grace Owen (6-0, 0.38 ERA) and more bats with Sarah Brown and Juju Malana, and an eighth SJS title in head coach Mary Jo Truesdale’s 20th season at the helm seems likely.

3. ALHAMBRA-MARTINEZ (24-2) So. Much. Offense. The two-time defending North Coast Section Div. II champs outscored opponents 292-57 over just 26 games in 2016. It all starts with the dynamic senior duo of Briana Perez and Karlee Sparacino. The two combined for 107 runs, 95 hits, 97 RBI, 16 doubles, 9 triples, 13 HR and 43 stolen bases. There’s plenty more offense too as the Bulldogs graduated just two everyday hitters. The third graduate was starting pitcher Sam Whitworth (18-2, 2.44 ERA). Junior Briana Edwards (6-0, 1.89) is her likely successor.

4. AMADOR VALLEY-PLEASANTON (21-5) Looking to replace key offensive losses, the Dons will rely heavily on Missouri-committed junior pitcher Danielle Williams. Which is fine, because she’s that good. She posted a 0.53 ERA with 245 strikeouts and eight no-hitters in addition to batting .456 with 2 HR.

5. FREEDOM-OAKLEY (19-3) Playing for the memory of a slain assistant coach, the Falcons knocked off three of top four NCS Div. I seeds to win the program’s first crown since 2008. Nearly every player returns, including East Bay Player of the Year, Vanessa Strong (17-3, 1.71 ERA; .423, 13 RBI).

6. ARCHBISHOP MITTY-SAN JOSE (21-4) The two-time defending CCS Div. II champs return the sophomore pitching tandem of Savanna Smith (9-1, 1.59 ERA) and Hannah Edwards (8-3, 2.30). Kaylin Stewart (.354, 17 RBI) and Julia Lucas (.415, 16 RBI) lead the offense.

7. EAST UNION-MANTECA (23-3) The Lancers’ lethal pitching duo of Mikayla Bongi (12-0, 0.56 ERA) and Delaney Pamplin (11-3, 0.20 ERA) are back along with hopes for a second SJS title in three years. Allie Tajii and Danyelle Godoy lead a strong group of underclassmen.

8. SAN BENITO-HOLLISTER (26-3) The Haybalers return 18-game winner Amanda Moisa to the circle as they look to repeat as CCS Div. I champs. Brittnee Rossi (.552, 26 RBI, 13 doubles) leads a potent lineup too.

9. JAMES LOGAN-UNION CITY (20-6) After graduating just four seniors from last year’s 20-win team, the Colts are poised for a big season behind juniors Cassandra Wenn (.432, 19 RBI, 5 HR) and Aliyah Yates (.389, 27 RBI, 5 HR).

10. BENICIA (23-7) Senior McKenna Gregory is one of the top dual threats in NorCal with an arm as powerful as her bat. The Panthers graduated just two from last year’s SJS Div. III finalist. Sluggers Nataschia Wibben and Chelsea Mari return. 11. Heritage-Brentwood (19-4)

16. Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland (22-4)

12. Del Campo-Fair Oaks (21-7)

17. Half Moon Bay (24-4)

13. Marin Catholic-Kentfield (22-4)

18. Foothill-Palo Cedro (29-1)

14. Concord (16-8)

19. Oakdale (22-3)

15. Tracy (24-7)

20. Rancho Cotate-Rohnert Park (18-7)

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PITCHERS Holly Azevedo (Pioneer-San Jose), Sr. — The UCLA-commit went 25-3 as a junior (raising her Mustangs career record to 72-7) with 334 strikeouts in 191 IP. She also hit .482. Mikayla Bongi (East Union-Manteca), Sr. — The southpaw was a perfect 12-0 with a 1.92 ERA last season after earning the victory in the Lancers’ SJS Division III championship win as a sophomore. McKenna Gregory (Benicia), Sr. — The Panthers’ workhorse posted a 16-7 record and struck out 173 in 143.1 innings while leading her team to the program’s third consecutive SJS final. Jessica Seely (Foothill-Palo Cedro), Sr. — Put up huge numbers (24-1, 0.31 ERA, 2 no-hitters, 1 perfect game, 242 K in 157 IP) to lead the Cougars to the Northern Section Division III title. Vanessa Strong (Freedom-Oakley), Jr. — Earned Player of the Year Award from multiple Bay Area publications after going 17-3 with 1.71 ERA with seven shutouts and two no-hitters while batting .423. Lindsey Walljasper (Sierra-Manteca), Jr. — Since taking over pitching duties from older sister Allie, she’s recorded back-to-back 10-win seasons as the Timberwolves try to continue to win SJS titles in odd-numbered years. Danielle Williams (Amador Valley-Pleasanton), Jr. — If her sophomore numbers of 0.53 ERA and 245 strikeouts in 144 innings don’t turn your head, perhaps her eight no-hitters might?

CATCHERS Megan Bower (Miramonte-Orinda), Jr. — She’s committed to Santa Clara, and also to punishing opposing pitchers. She hit an astounding .707 with 12 HRs and 50 RBI as a sophomore. Frankie Hammoude (Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland), Jr. — She was named WACC-Shoreline MVP and All-East Bay after she hit .400 with five homers, eight triples and 20 RBI for NCS Div. III champs. Katie Zobac (Valley Christian-San Jose), So. — Earned WCAL MVP as a freshman after she hit . 512 with 20 of her 41 hits going for extra-bases. She scored 27 runs and drove in 41.

INFIELDERS Rachel Cid (Tracy), Jr. — Bulldogs’ slugger has recorded back-to-back seasons with 35 RBI and has 8 HR and a .819 slugging percentage and 90 hits in her first two seasons. Maci Fines (Sheldon-Sacramento), Sr. — UCSB-bound middle infielder is Huskies’ catalyst in the leadoff role; led the team with a .518 average and 50 runs in 2016. Shea Moreno (Sheldon), Sr. — Versatile UCLA signee will take over behind the plate after batting .465 with 33 RBI as the Huskies’ 3B last season. Sabrina Nunez (Redwood-Larkspur), Sr. — Signed to play for Cal next season, Nunez batted .446 with 37 hits, 24 runs, seven doubles and 12 RBI for a 21-win Giants team. Briana Perez (Alhambra-Martinez), Sr. — Another UCLA-bound talent, Perez struck out just two times in 96 plate appearances. She hit .613 with 46 hits, 56 runs, 40 RBI and 21 stolen bases. Karlee Sparacino (Alhambra), Sr. — The Oregon-commit was a Cal-Hi Sports Ms. State Softball finalist last season after hitting .620 with 49 hits, 51 runs, 57 RBI, 22 stolen bases and 20 extra-base hits.

OUTFIELDERS/UTILITY Julie Davis (Homestead-Cupertino), Sr. — A first-team All-Mercury News selection, Davis hit a blistering .581 with 54 hits (20 for extra bases), 37 runs and 19 RBI across 27 games. Bailynn Meek (Casa Roble-Orangevale), Sr. — Right-hander posted an 8-3 record in the circle in 2016, but made a bigger impact at the plate with a .461 average, 7 HR, and 31 RBI. Anyssia Ramirez (Heritage-Brentwood), Sr. — She led the Patriots in hits (37) and doubles (9). She finished with a .581 average and 19 RBI. Alyse Rojas (Vacaville), Sr. — Bulldogs’ INF/OF is a three-year starter with 142 hits, 9 HR, 42 RBI, and 47 SB in 49 attempts over her career. ✪

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From top, Karlee Sparacino, McKenna Gregory and Shea Moreno

Growing Up Amongst Major Leaguers Gave Darren Baker An Edge — But The Jesuit Standout Made Sure He Forged His Own Path

arren Baker may have been born with a baseball in his hand and grew up in Major League Baseball clubhouses, but becoming a Division I signee and potential big leaguer was by no means a birthright. “He was like a child actor that was always on the set with his father,” Darren’s father Dusty Baker said. Dusty is about to begin his second year managing the Washington Nationals, but most of Darren’s childhood transpired during managing stints with the San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds. “He has always been comfortable in the situation and I tried to let him learn the game on his own and make his own decisions.” Darren Baker has learned plenty on his own from his experiences in the dugouts and on the fields, and has become one of the top high school baseball players in Northern California. The Jesuit-Carmichael senior has signed with Cal and will likely draw MLB scouts to Marauders’ games this season. “I am just going to let the season play out,” the young Baker said of possibly having to choose between signing with an MLB team or going to Berkeley. “The draft has become a bigger topic, but my dad reminds me to take things one day at a time and to enjoy the last few months of high school first.” As a junior, Baker batted .386, scored 30 runs and stole a team-high 15 bases as Jesuit posted a 22-9 record and earned a Sac-Joaquin Section Division I playoff berth. The Marauders are expected to challenge for a Delta League title in 2017, and Baker is a big reason for the program’s high expectations. Jesuit graduated its top two pitchers from the 2016 roster — Jack Wolger and Jack Cosca, both of whom signed with Cal — and leading hitter Nick Sogard moved on, leaving Baker as the leader of a new crop of talent that will battle for league and section supremacy with perennial powers Davis, Sheldon and two-time defending Division I champion Elk Grove. “I was always more of a lead-by-example guy,” Baker said of his quiet nature, “but I feel like I have one of the more

Story By Jim McCue Photos By James K. Leash 24

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respected and experienced voices on the team, so I need to step up as a vocal leader this season.” Longtime Marauders’ head coach Joe Potulny recognizes a special leadership and competitiveness in Baker. “He plays baseball like Magic Johnson used to play basketball,” Potulny said. “He can be a fun high school kid just fooling around with his buddies one minute and then turn a switch on and be a fierce competitor.” Baker will play shortstop for Potulny in his senior season, but major league scouts are projecting him as an outfield prospect thanks to his speed and range. The versatile talent has worked hard to increase his power and size, but understands his raw skills and baseball background are key to his success. “Darren is the only guy we have given a green light to since I have been at Jesuit,” said Potulny, who is in his 25th season as coach at his alma mater. “He is an amazing baserunner and

he still has not hit his peak.” As a regular in the dugouts and clubhouses of the Giants, Cubs and Reds, Darren Baker observed the talents and work habits of Major League stars, and even established long-lasting relationships with some of the game’s best players. “He pays attention to the game and has always been respectful in the dugout or the clubhouse when I have been a manager,” Dusty said. “I think that’s why players have always liked him, and why guys like Barry Bonds, Brandon Phillips, Joey Votto and others still text with him and talk with him.” Darren Baker has sought advice and guidance from his Dad’s players, often exchanging videos to get pointers from sources that very few, if any, peers would have access to. That list includes his dad, who played for 19 years and has managed for 20 more. He won a World Series championship with the Los Angeles Dodgers as a player in 1981, and led

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playoff runs with all four of the clubs he’s managed, including a World Series appearance with San Francisco in 2002. “We talk about other things, but it always gets back around to baseball,” Darren said. “Baseball brings us together in many different ways and has been real good for us.” “I have never pushed him to do anything,” Dusty said. “He follows my life and I follow his. I aspire for him to do what he wants to do. “His eventual goal is to play pro ball and it has always been his dream, but I just wanted to prepare him.” While Dusty prepared him with his baseball background and exposing his son to the game, it was Darren’s mother, Melissa, who has had the day-to-day responsibility of shaping her son’s life, of which baseball is just a part of the bigger picture. “She is always the one that takes credit for my baseball ability,” Darren said. “The biggest thing that she taught me or instilled in me is commitment. She’s been there every day and has taken me to every tournament. She is my number one fan.” His dad can’t disagree. “I encourage him to work hard at the game, but I don’t have to tell him very often to practice or work at it,” Dusty said. “He is a hard worker and his mom makes sure that he is a good student and a good person.” Like both of his parents, Darren Baker is well-liked and respected — by both teammates and opponents. Dusty and Melissa’s philosophy to emphasize education first has led Darren to the options that are before him. “I am proud of him for giving himself the option of pursuing an education and playing baseball, because he works hard at school and baseball,” Dusty said. “I know that he’s the kind of kid that can do whatever he wants to do if he puts his mind to it.” Darren Baker’s mind is set on pursuing baseball beyond high school, and college and professional baseball are options because of his hard work and dedication to the game. When presented with the opportunity to manage the Nationals, Dusty was somewhat reluctant and talked with Darren about the opportunity before accepting. That conversation showed the father that he and his wife had raised a special son. “He said, ‘Dad, we’ve got work to do.’” Dusty said. “He talked about how I needed to take another shot at winning with the Nationals and he needed to work toward his dream of playing pro ball. That shows a lot about what kind of a person he is.” That’s not something Darren Baker was just born with. ✪

1. DE LA SALLE-CONCORD (25-3) Some of the most competitive games on the Spartans schedule each year happen at the intrasquad games played at Saturday morning practice. It’s in those games where De La Salle builds its program depth and allows an Oregon-committed pitcher like Cullen Kafka to bide his time behind other seniors to take the mound every other day. Kafka (2-1, 1.50 ERA and 2 saves in 18.2 IP as a junior) should lead another talented Spartans pitching staff. The offense returns Ryan Cole (.425, 32 runs, 22 RBI), Gabe Giosso (.366, 26 RBI) and Trace Tammaro (.262, 21 RBI).

2. ST. FRANCIS-MOUNTAIN VIEW (26-8)

John Cross (Kansas) combined for 16 wins and 143 strikeouts in 120 innings. Outfielders Patrick Smith (.324) and Cameron Allie (.322) will be called upon to lead the offense as Oak Ridge seeks its first section title.

4. ELK GROVE (24-9) The perennial power and two-time defending SJS Div.1 champions will look to reload with some experienced returners mixed with new faces. USC-commit Riley Lamb turned heads with a fastball in the low 90s at the Area Code Games over the summer, and Tanner Carlson is the latest of head coach Jeff Carlson’s sons expected to make an impact.

The Lancers may have graduated some top-level talent after 2016, but there’s still quite a bit in the cupboard for the twotime defending Central Coast Section Open Div. champions. Senior infielder and UCLA-signee, R.J. Teijeiro (.368, 35 hits, 20 RBI in 2016) and fellow senior Emilio Nogales (.313, 21 hits, 11 RBI) will lead the offense. Senior lefty Brandon Oliver (3-1, 0.64 ERA) should lead a pitching staff that will also include Dominic DiCosimo (3-0, 0.94).

5. VALLEY CHRISTIAN-SAN JOSE (16-15)

3. OAK RIDGE (24-7)

The senior trio Todd Jackson (.367, 33 hits, 15 RBI), Connor Mack (.298, 22 R, 28 hits, 14 RBI) and Laurence Palmer (.333, 25 hits, 11 RBI) should give plenty of offense to up-and-coming junior hurlers Wes Harper and Joe Ammirato.

The Trojans reached the Sac-Joaquin Section Div. I North finals in 2016 and return nine players, including the bulk of their pitching staff. Seniors Trenton Denholm (UC Irvine signee) and

Six of the Warriors top seven hitters from 2016 return, and that includes All-State junior Patrick Wicklander. The Dallas Baptistcommit is more known for his arm than his bat, however. He went 8-3 with a 0.59 ERA and 89 strikeouts in 83.1 innings in 2016.

6. BELLARMINE-SAN JOSE (21-11)

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7. COLLEGE PARK-PLEASANT HILL (19-8) Christian Encarnacion-Strand (.409, 25 runs, 38 hits, 27 RBI, 7 HR) leads a stellar cast of returning players. Ian MacIver (7-3, 1.41 ERA, 2 saves) leads the Falcons on the bump.

8. GRANITE BAY (15-13) Cal Poly-bound Darren Nelson tied for team lead with 20 RBI, but was recruited for pitching (7-2, 0.50 ERA). Senior INF Kenny LeBeau led hitters with a .442 average, 38 hits, and 20 RBI.

9. ACALANES-LAFAYETTE (26-2) It won’t be easy for the Dons to top last year’s dominance, but a lot of key talent returns, including UCSB-bound ace Josh Candau (9-1, 1.23 ERA).

10. HERITAGE-BRENTWOOD (21-5) A good amount of Div. I talent graduated, but the Patriots are still in good hands. Noah Daubin (.411, 16 runs, 30 hits) and Jake Cosgrove (.269, 15 runs, 16 RBI) lead the way. 11. Casa Grande-Ptlma (21-6) 12. Jesuit-Carmichael (22-9) 13. Archbishop Mitty (15-13) 14. Tracy (26-9) 15. Castro Valley (17-10)

16. Davis (21-8) 17. Vacaville (15-13) 18. Serra-San Mateo (25-6-1) 19. St. Mary’s-Stockton (19-13) 20. Monte Vista-Dnvlle (16-10)

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PITCHERS Cody Bolton (Tracy), Sr. — Bulldogs’ fastball has been clocked in the mid-90s; posted an 8-1 record with 1.96 ERA and 60 strikeouts to boost his career mark to 15-4 while averaging nearly a strikeout per inning. Josh Candau (Acalanes-Lafayette), Sr. — Committed to UC Santa Barbara, Candau is considered one of East Bay’s top arms after going 9-1 with a 1.23 ERA for the NCS Div. II champs. Trenton Denholm (Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills), Sr. — The right-hander gave up only one earned run in the regular season, and finished with a 10-1 record and 0.71 ERA for the SJS North finalists. Cullen Kafka (De La Salle-Concord), Sr. — Poised to become Spartans ace after biding time behind Nick Sparks and Conner Roberts last season. Patrick Wicklander (Valley Christian-San Jose), Jr. — The WCAL Pitcher of the Year went 8-3 with a sterling 0.59 ERA to go along with 89 strikeouts in 83.3 innings pitched.

CATCHERS Matt Mascio (Castro Valley), Sr. — Mascio hit .382 with 19 runs, 26 hits and 15 RBI for the upstart Trojans. He was also 7-2 with a 1.56 ERA over 62.2 IP. Thomas McCarthy (Serra-San Mateo), Sr. — He can flat out hit. He did so to the tune of .367 with 20 RBI and 10 doubles as a junior last year.

INFIELDERS Christian Almanza (St. Mary’s-Stockton), Jr. — Sturdy 6-foot-4 first baseman is slated to be the Rams’ latest star after hitting .360 and driving in 25 runs as a sophomore. Darren Baker (Jesuit-Carmichael), Sr. — Versatile player has been around baseball his whole life, and may be playing in the infield for the last time this season as scouts project him as an outfielder. Tyler Bosetti (Vacaville), Sr. — Nevada signee had breakout season in 2016 with a .386 average, 33 runs and 15 stolen bases, while playing solid defense at shortstop. Jordan Brandenburg (Carlmont-Belmont), Sr. — He got on base just over half the time (.505 OBP) while hitting .464 with 26 RBI. Lee Brewer (Tracy), Sr. — Big slugging corner infielder batted .386 and tied for SJS lead with 9 HRs as a junior, and has 13 long balls and 43 RBI in 50 varsity games. Christian Encarnacion-Strand (College Park-Pleasant Hills), Jr. — His breakout sophomore season included bating .409 with 38 hits, 25 runs, 27 RBI, nine doubles and seven HRs. R.J. Teijeiro (St. Francis-Mountain View), Sr. — The UCLA-signee returns to lead the defending CCS Open Champions after hitting .368 with 35 hits and 20 RBI. Spencer Torkelson (Casa Grande-Petaluma), Sr. — Torkelson reached base nearly 60 percent of the time as a junior. He hit . 442 with 34 hits, 26 runs, 25 RBI, 8 doubles and 18 walks. He’s signed to Arizona State.

OUTFIELDERS Ryan Cole (De La Salle-Concord), Sr. — The Spartans leadoff hitter topped the team in hits (37) and runs (32) and stolen bases (13). He also had 22 RBI and 10 doubles. Noah Daubin (Heritage-Brentwood), Sr. — Played in shadow of talented senior class last season, hitting .411 with 30 hits, 16 runs, 13 RBI and a .443 on-base percentage. Connor Mack (Bellarmine-San Jose), Sr. — The Cal-bound talent set the table for the 21-win Bells in 2016. He had 28 hits, 22 runs, 14 RBI, 12 stolen bases and seven extra-base hits.

UTILITY Santiago Cantu (Patterson), Sr. — The SS/P did it all for the Tigers in 2016 with a .562 batting average to go with a stellar 9-0 record, 0.39 ERA, and 64 strikeouts in 54 innings. Haydn King (Archbishop Mitty-San Jose), Sr. — The Monarchs’ P/1B hit .346 with 27 hits, 15 runs and eight doubles. On the hill he was 6-2 with a 0.58 ERA. He’s committed to USF. Riley Lamb (Elk Grove), Sr. — Versatile right-hander takes over as Thundering Herd’s ace and will spend time in the outfield when not on the mound. Batted .330 for SJS D-1 champions in 2016.

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From top, Christian Almanza, Cody Belton and R.J. Teijeiro.

RUGBY 10 Where To Find Rugby In Your

You can view Parts I and II for this series in our January and February issues, resp

ast month, we discussed the nuances of the sport of Rugby, how to play it, some of the laws and what goes into making a good game. This issue, we delve into the history of the sport in Northern California, the governance structure and where you can find rugby to watch and play! What is Rugby NorCal? Youth Rugby in Northern California has a storied history. Our oldest teams started competing in the 70’s at the high school level. After much growth and development, an organization, Rugby California, was created to govern youth and high school rugby throughout the state. After two years, it became evident that the state was too large for one organization to govern. On August 4th, 2010, the Northern California Youth Rugby Association was formally established. Four years later, in October 2014, the NCYRA Membership voted in favor of restructuring and adopting new by-laws. On February 4th, 2015, the NCYRA officially became Rugby NorCal. Northern California is the largest youth and high school state rugby organization in the country, and we continue to experience rapid growth, with new members, new high school teams and new clubs joining every year. We are committed to making rugby fun, safe and available to every child in Northern California. Rugby NorCal runs an abundance of different leagues and codes (15s and 7s) throughout the year, from Chico down to Fresno and all points west. Our club leagues serve Under-8s to Under-19s and run from January through May, with schedule lengths depending on the age. The summer is filled with the Rugby NorCal Summer 7s Series and the opportunity for all kids to play 7s in a variety of tournaments around the region. Our Mission is to leverage the values of the game of rugby in order to grow and legitimize the game at the youth and high school levels, and to then serve that membership — focusing on player safety — to enable rugby to be a recognized presence in Northern California. Our vision is to prepare our youth to be positive and productive members of society, utilizing rugby as a vehicle to learn life’s lessons, foster personal development and build character. Rugby is seen to be a valuable activity for the development of youth and high school participants and the pursuit of athletic endeavor. To accomplish this now, and in the future, we must: ›› Make sure every youth and high school administrator and facilitator has access to the Rookie Rugby and Try-On Rugby curriculum and knows how to use it. ›› Create as many flag/after-school leagues as possible. ›› To convert participants of Rookie Rugby and TryOn Rugby into full RNC Members, thereby growing the

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quality and number of our clubs and membership. ›› To parallel our youth and high school growth with an increase in quality coaches and referees who supports a larger, more dynamic membership. ›› To attain recognition from local youth and high school sanctioning bodies in order to legitimize the sport of rugby in Northern California. Since we’ve mentioned it, Rookie Rugby and TryOn Rugby were created as entry points to the game in a flag/non-contact setting. Try-On Rugby is our latest version focusing specifically on engaging the female demographic. Rugby NorCal runs many Rookie Rugby leagues throughout the region in partnership with local facilities in cities such as Vacaville, and with local organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of Placer County and Parks and Recreation of Rancho Cordova. If you are interested in learning more about either Rookie Rugby or Try-On Rugby, please contact our office, or visit www.rugbynorcal.org/rookierugby for more details. Rugby NorCal has just over 60 actively participating clubs throughout our region. You can find the one closest to you by visiting rugbynorcal.org and clicking on the “Register” tab at the top of the page. Our matches are usually held on Friday nights, Saturday and Sunday, and comprised of a round-robin/ jamboree format at the youth (U8-U12) levels and full matches from Middle School up through high school varsity. In addition to youth, high school and adult club rugby, many of the colleges in Northern California also play. In fact, we have some of the winningest programs right here in Cal-Berkeley, Saint Mary’s College and UC Davis. Furthermore, the best in the world are coming to NorCal. The Rugby World Cup of 7s (7-a-side variation) is coming to the USA, and more specifically, at AT&T park in San Francisco! This is a four-day international tournament for both men’s and women’s National 7s teams. It is being held in July, with exact dates to be released on the first weekend of March. Rugby 7s is a carnival-like atmosphere with non-stop action on the field. Even if you don’t know the rules or understand the sport fully, it is an event that will surely get you excited. Rugby fans are some of the friendliest people around, and will gladly take time to explain what is going on. If you don’t have plans for summer 2018 yet, make sure you block out some time, get some tickets and come on down to witness one of the greatest spectacles in world rugby. If you have questions or need more information on how to get involved, contact Mark Carney at mcarney@ rugbynorcal.org or visit www.rugbynorcal.org ✪ Follow us on Twitter & Instagram, and like us on Facebook!

01 PART III Corner of Northern California

pectively. Both issues can be found on our new homepage at SportStarsMag.com

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March 2017

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PATRIOTS’ DAY

After 11 Winning Seasons, Heritage Clinches Its First State Playoff Berth

Tyrese Mack

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After 10 seasons of varsity basketball, and never a losing season, nobody could’ve blamed the Heritage-Brentwood boys or coach Pat Cruickshank if they didn’t feel a bit cursed at the end of the 2015-16 season. The Patriots rode into the North Coast Section Division I playoffs last season as the No. 3 seed with a 21-5 record. Just two postseason wins would secure the program’s first bid to the CIF state playoffs. But after a double-overtime 87-84 home loss to No. 14-seed Castro Valley in the opening round, it was not to be. Again. Just 366 days later, senior forward Anthony Dennis scored four points inside the final 30 seconds to seal a 62-58 NCS Div. I quarterfinal win over visiting Clayton Valley-Concord. And the program’s 800-pound gorilla was finally shown the door — the 11th season was the charm. Dennis led the team with 15 points and was one of four players in double figures. Senior brothers Tyriq and Tyrese Mack had 14 and 13 points, respectively. Junior Johnathan Ned had 10. Dennis didn’t need any help grasping the significance of the moment. He admitted Cruickshank had them thinking about it for the previous 365 days. “I think he knew (this would be the year) all along,” Dennis said of Cruickshank. “He told us after the loss to Castro Valley last year. It was on me, the twins and John next year. And we did it.” It’s the program’s second trip to the NCS semifinals. The Patriots

last reached in 2009 as part of the Division II field — it was the only season of the past nine in which the NCS only got two state bids instead of four. So the 2009 team’s season ended in a 61-47 semifinal loss to top-seeded Hayward. The No. 2-seeded Heritage, which was 25-3 entering its March 1 semifinal against No. 3 De La Salle-Concord, may have its automatic ticket to regionals but won’t be satisfied with just that one first. A first section final would feel a lot sweeter. “This feels good because these kids have worked so hard for this over the year,” Cruickshank said. “I still think we can play better than we have. … But tonight was fairly complete. They wanted this bad tonight. They knew what this meant and they went out and took care of it.” A few reasons for Heritage’s success this season include a sterling 9-0 record on its home floor prior to hosting De La Salle for the semifinal. The Mack brothers also comprise one of the best defensive backcourts in the section. “They’re like a bunch fleas that you can’t get off of you for the whole game,” Dennis said laughing. “They might be the best two defenders in NorCal.” Look for unbeaten (at press time) Loyalton, a resurgent Rincon Valley Christian-Santa Rosa (alma mater of one of Northern California’s all-time best players, Erin Buescher), and Valley Christian-Roseville to make a deep run — and also show that even though there may not be that many future NCAA stars on those rosters, good basketball is good basketball no matter what the division. ✪ — Chace Bryson & Clay Kallam

REGIONAL SELECTION SURPRISE There’s a new twist in the ever-evolving saga of the California postseason: Unlike recent years, there is no guarantee that the Northern California Open Division Regional bracket will be completely full. If indeed the new CIF committee that selects the Open Division teams (and does all the seeding and bracketing for Divisions I through VI) only chooses six or seven teams, the trickle-down effect would have a major impact on almost every other NorCal division. Especially for the girls brackets. For example, last year Miramonte-Orinda beat Brookside Christian-Stockton by 68, and St. Mary’s-Stockton beat Carondelet-Concord by 24, but what if Brookside Christian had been in its assigned Division IV? Would Cardinal Newman still have its Div. IV state banner on the wall? (And, not incidentally, Brookside would not have been in the Sac-Joaquin Section Division I bracket this year.) And if Carondelet had been placed in the Division I bracket instead of the Open, would St. Francis have advanced to the state title game?

DIVISION VI DANDIES

Jonathan Ned

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Though all the attention in the coming weeks will be rightfully focused on the race for state championships, it would be unfair to ignore the quality Division VI girls teams, which will conclude their season at the end of the NorCal playoffs. ✪

March 2017

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BOYS

1. (1)

—

3. (3)

—

2. (2) 4. (4) 5. (5) 6. (7)

— — — ▲

7. (8)

▲

8. (6)

▼

10. (10)

—

28-1

Salesian-Richmond

Bellarmine-San Jose

Capital Christian-Sacramento Dublin

Oakland Tech

27-2 25-4 24-1

21-7 27-3 26-6

25-5

11. (11)

—

Vanden-Fairfield

27-2

15. (15) 16. (16) 17. (17) 18. (18)

— — — — — — —

19. (NR) ▲

Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland Moreau Catholic-Hayward

St. Patrick-St. Vincent-Vallejo Heritage-Brentwood Mission-S.F.

Burbank-Sacramento St. Ignatius-S.F.

James Logan-Union City

Archbishop Mitty-San Jose

19-9 19-9 23-6 25-3 28-1 26-3 20-5 24-4

15-10

20. (20)

—

Manteca

1. (1)

—

Archbishop Mitty-San Jose

23-2

3. (3)

—

Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland

25-3

2. (2) 4. (4) 5. (5) 6. (6) 7. (7) 8. (8) 9. (9)

10. (10) 11. (11)

12. (15)

— — — — — — — — — ▲

13. (16)

▲

15. (17)

14. (14)

—

GIRLS

Carondelet-Concord

Pinewood-Los Altos Hills

Cardinal Newman-Santa Rosa St. Mary’s-Stockton

Sacred Heart Cathedral-S.F. Salesian-Richmond

McClatchy-Sacramento Heritage-Brentwood Miramonte-Orinda Lincoln-Stockton Vanden-Fairfield

24-5

26-4 23-2 26-3 18-8 17-7 22-8 26-3 24-4 25-3

22-7 24-5

Eastside College Prep-E. Palo Alto

▲

Campolindo-Moraga

18-7

▲

Modesto Christian

24-4

18. (NR) ▲

Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills

20-9

19. (13)

▼

Folsom

25-4

20. (20)

—

West Campus-Sacramento

23-4

16. (18)

17. (NR) ▲

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St. Joseph Notre Dame-Alameda

De La Salle-Concord

14. (14)

March 2017

27-2

Woodcreek-Roseville

—

13. (13)

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Sheldon-Sacramento

9. (9)

12. (12)

Records are through Feb. 25

Sacramento

23-5 21-8

When Being

EN POINTE Becomes Painful

health watch: caitlin R. Mouille Are you getting pain while dancing en pointe? Ankle pain/injuries are very common and account for up to 54 percent of all injuries suffered by dancers. Both male and female dancers are at risk for injury. However, female dancers are more prone to injuries because they dance in en pointe. Ballet places the ankle into two extreme positions. The first being maximum dorsiflexion (demi-plié position) and the second being maximum plantarflexion (en pointe position). These positions, and the repetition to which they are performed, places the ballet dancer at a higher risk for developing pain and sustaining an injury. Where are you feeling your pain and when? ›› 1. Pain in the back and outside of the ankle when performing relevés and pointe work: Dancers who have this could potentially be suffering from posterior ankle impingement. Impingement is when bone or soft tissue is compressed during a specific movement. ›› 2. Pain in the back of the ankle: Pain can be from forcing turnout, resulting in your foot falling inwards and not landing with heels on the ground from a jump. ›› 3. Pain along the back and inside or the ankle: When going from en pointe to plié:, Inflammation of the Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) can cause “dancers tendonitis.” Dancer’s can have swelling and popping along the back/inside of their ankle, as well as locking off the big toe or pain when the big toe is flexed. ›› 4. Pain along the outside of the ankle: Did you roll your ankle recently? While dancing in the en pointe position it places one of your ligaments on the outside of your ankle at increased risk of injury. This ligament is called the ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament) and it has been found to be the weakest ankle ligament. While in en pointe, it is being pulled to its longest length under extreme tension. This leaves the ankle vulnerable for being sprained while landing incorrectly from a jump or when rolling over the outside of the foot while on demi-pointe. Pain is usually located around the outside of the ankle or when moving the foot inwards. Swelling can be present. Spraining your ankle leaves you at risk for re-spraining again especially within the first year. What can you do to decrease your risk of injury? Do not force your turn out. This leads to incorrect knee tracking and your foot falling in. When your have collapses it decreases your foot’s ability to absorb forces which can result in injury. Stretch your calf muscles. Do not wear “dead” shoes. Soft and worn out shoes can lead to injury. Perform balance exercises. Stand on one foot for 30 seconds. To make it harder, close your eyes. Gradually increase the quantity and intensity of training. If you develop pain and it does not get better within a few days you should talk to your physician about your symptoms in order to get you back to dance safely and to reduce your risk of further injury. ✪

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Motherly

ADVICE nutrition: jill daniels

Team Moms: Make Sure You’re Shopping From The Approved Snack List Let’s say you’re a team mom who needs some ideas for feeding the team during tournaments. What are some quick, healthy, energizing foods you can provide for these athletes? Keeping the athletes well fueled throughout a tournament can make a huge difference in how they perform. Since carbohydrates are the body’s main energy source, you want to make sure to provide these in different foods throughout the day. Healthy fats and proteins are also needed so that the athletes feel satisfied after eating, especially when they have longer breaks. Make sure the focus is on the carbohydrates, as too much fat or protein will make the athlete feel sluggish and weighed down. Here are some ideas:

breakfast Yogurt with cereal or granola; overnight oats with fruit; bagels with peanut butter.

snacks Bring several different carbohydrate-rich choices: crackers, granola bars, vanilla- or fruit-flavored yogurt, oatmeal raisin cookies, graham crackers, pretzels, applesauce, animal crackers, fig bars, pita chips, and of course fruit — washed, cut, and ready to eat. For good sources of fat and protein? Try hard-boiled eggs, turkey jerky, string cheese, trail mix, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.

lunch Sandwiches with lean protein options such as turkey, ham or lean roast beef with tomatoes, lettuce and pickles. Tuna salad or chicken salad in pita bread. Tortilla wrap with apple and banana slices and your favorite nut butter. If you’re able to serve them a hot lunch, consider pasta with chicken and broccoli, turkey burgers, burritos or burrito bowls with rice, chicken, cheese, salsa and tortilla chips Make sure to keep lots of water, juices, chocolate milk and sports drinks available so that the team stays hydrated. If you have access to a power outlet, bring a blender and create a smoothie station using frozen fruit, yogurt, nut butter and juice to make some energizing and nourishing drinks. You don’t need to get too fancy for these tournaments. Bring foods that are familiar and enjoyable to the athletes, so that everyone will be able to find something to eat. This will help the team get fueled properly and stay energized so they can avoid crashing towards the end of the day. Keeping the athletes well fueled will also make a big difference in their attitude and, who knows, it may even lead to more victories! ✪ Maximize your athletic performance by seeking out personalized advice from Nutrition Coach Jill Daniels, MS, RD, CSSD, Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics. www.JillDanielsRD.com

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