NorCal Issue 144, February 2018

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NORCAL EDITION FEBRUARY 2018 VOL. 9 ISSUE 144

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Bay Area legend Jason Kidd is on the cusp of the Basketball Hall of Fame.

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Cal-Hi Sports exclusive state Top 10 boys & girls basketball rankings

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Prolific Prep superstar Jordan Brown continues to be a big story

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RUNAWAY Milpitas’ Tariq Bracy was the clear choice for our 2017 Football Player of the Year. Pg. 20.

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ALL NORCAL FOOTBALL: Folsom’s Joseph Ngata has no off button and is already itching for the 2018 season

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ALL NORCAL FOOTBALL: De La Salle’s Henry To’oto’o has always wanted to be a linebacker

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EXCLUSIVE: SportStars NorCal boys and girls hoops Top 20 rankings.

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Lots of questions abound in the new era of state basketball playoffs

in the network

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

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Stay locked in on the NorCal pecking order with our boys and girls hoops ranks every Monday and Tuesday.

Who made Cal-Hi’s much-respected All-State Football teams for 2017? Consider a Gold Membership to see them all.

Wrestling postseason is here. Read stories and catchup on NorCal team and individual rankings.

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Clair Steele MIRAMONTE-ORINDA - BASKETBALL - SENIOR The Lehigh-bound point guard combined 18 points with five rebounds, four assists and four steals to help lead the Matadors to a 55-47 win over Heritage-Brentwood at the Lamorinda Classic Showcase in Moraga on Jan. 21. Steele, a four-year starter, is the unquestioned leader for a Miramonte team which went 16-4 through its first 20 games and began February ranked No. 8 in the SportStars NorCal Top 20. The Matadors, along with Cardinal Newman-Santa Rosa, will be heavy favorites to play for the North Coast Section Div. II championship on the first weekend of March.

As of Jan. 28, Miramonte’s only NorCal loss was to No. 7 CarondeletConcord, 67-56 on Jan. 6. Carondelet will compete for an NCS Div. I title.

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The Story Of

DAWSON GRUHLER F

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our sports writers sitting around a table talking 2017 NorCal high school football.

They pour over lists, stats and comments made by other writers and coaches. They look at recruiting reports and game results. They split hairs over injuryshortened campaigns and postseason success.

They all want the same thing: To finish with a roster of 50 players — 25 on offense and 25 on defense — that represents NorCal’s best cross section of football players from the past season.

At one point while trying to solidify the defense, one writer tosses out the name Dawson Gruhler.

“I was looking at small schools and wrote this name down,” the writer says. “Dawson Gruhler. He had 223 tackles, 91 were solo tackles and he had three sacks and three interceptions.”

“Whoa,” one writer remarks.

“Wow,” says another.

“Who did you say he played for?,” asks the one writer at the table who also works as an editor.

“University Prep of Redding.”

At this point, the rest of the table looks at the editor.

This is always a sticking point when considering players from all schools for the same honors. University Prep’s enrollment is just shy of 1,000 students. The Panthers are considered a Div. III school in the Northern Section.

How much of Dawson Gruhler’s impact corresponds to the level of competition he plays? Would he be a factor in the Sac-Joaquin Section’s Sierra Foothill League or the Central Coast Section’s West Catholic Athletic League?

“Let’s table Gruhler for now,” the editor says.

Approximately a half hour later, with two defensive spots still open, the writer who first championed Gruhler now has his phone out and is watching video.

“What are you watching?”

“Gruhler’s senior highlight video.”

The table gets quiet and everyone starts to watch.

They watch a few plays of Gruhler shedding blocks to get to the ball carrier. It’s pretty standard fare. Then the third play unfolds, in which Gruhler doesn’t shed a blocker, but essentially runs through him. He puts the lineman on his back and then seconds later catches up to the running back and makes the solo tackle.

“Ohhhhhh!,” exclaimed all four writers in unison.

That’s when we wrote Dawson Gruhler’s name down as a SportStars All-NorCal selection. Football is football, and Gruhler can play it, and we haven’t been the only

JOIN OUR TEAM PHONE 925.566.8500 FAX 925.566.8507 EDITORIAL Editor@SportStarsMag.com Editor Chace Bryson • Chace@SportStarsMag.com Assistant Editor Mike Wood Staff Writer Jim McCue • JimMcCue16@gmail.com Contributors Bill Kolb, Matt Smith, Clay Kallam, Dave Kiefer, Tim Rudd, Trevor Horn, Mark Tennis, James G. Kane, Harold Abend, Jill Daniels, Anthony Trucks, Erika Westhoff Copy Editor Bill Kruissink Photography James K. Leash, Phillip Walton, Doug Guler, Berry Evans III, Samuel Stringer, Jim Johnson, Dennis Lee Interns Joshua Howser, Krishna Gomatam Marketing/Events Ryan Arter

ones to recognize it. As of Jan. 30, Gruhler did have five college offers. His most recent ones came from Div. II schools Western Oregon and Southern Oregon.

Our team may be the only NorCal or state list that Gruhler lands on, but I feel confident he belongs. And if every postseason honors list was the same, there wouldn’t be much for fans to talk about. In the end, we think we’ve given our readers lots to talk about with our All-NorCal roster and postseason honors.

Maybe Dawson Gruhler’s highlight video is going to get a few more views. ✪

YOUR TICKET TO CALIFORNIA SPORTS ADMIT ONE; RAIN OR SHINE This Vol. #9, February 2018 Whole No. 144 is published by Caliente!

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J

ason Kidd may have been fired recently as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, but with his 19-year NBA career that began with the Dallas Mavericks in the 1990s and ended as a member of the New York Knicks five years ago he’s a sure-fire Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer.

The St. Joseph Notre DameAlameda grad should be officially announced as an inductee into the Hall of Fame on NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. He, along with Steve Nash and Ray Allen, are now eligible for induction and those three will all be hard to deny as first-ballot inductees.

Like many Northern Californians, of course, we can think back like it was only yesterday when Kidd was firing those trademark bullet passes for the Pilots. Those were the years when the school wasn’t called St. Joseph Notre Dame.

He’s still the best high school player in California that I’ve ever seen in person (sorry LaVar Ball) and still would have to be regarded as the best in Northern California history.

It all began when St. Joe’s head coach Frank LaPorte (who died of cancer in 1997) approached me one year at the CIF state finals and told me to be ready for this eighth grader who was going to be a freshman starter for him the following season.

That player, of course, was Kidd and, as LaPorte predicted, he was mesmerizing. The highlight of that freshman year was when a crowd of nearly 8,000 packed into the Spanos Center in Stockton to see Kidd and his St. Joseph teammates battle 33-0 St. Mary’s-Stockton in the NorCal playoffs. He was the best player on the court and had no trouble performing in that “hostile” environment. The Pilots won, but didn’t win their first state title until Jason’s junior year.

Before that junior season, when Cal-Hi Sports was the title of a monthly magazine, we were working out of an office at the Anaheim Hilton. We got LaPorte to fly down to Orange County with Jason for a cover shoot. Kidd would end up being on the cover of our magazine (later changed to the more national name Student Sports) three times, more than anyone else, but was never by himself.

When the prep career was complete, Kidd was the first four-time All-NorCal choice, had led St. Joe to two CIF Division I titles, set national and state records for career assists and career steals and was a two-time Mr. Basketball State Player of the Year. In his final game at what was once called Sleep Train Arena in Sacramento, he

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had scored more points in the first three quarters than the entire team from Mater Dei-Santa Ana. Ironically, longtime Mater Dei head coach Gary McKnight also is a semifinalist on this year’s Naismith Hall of Fame ballot.

McKnight, who is the only coach in California history with more than 1,000 wins and has won 11 CIF state titles, could become the fourth high school coach in the nation to be in the Hall of Fame. The other three are Morgan Wootten of Maryland, Robert Hurley of New Jersey and Robert Hughes of Texas.

Looking back on all the years in which Cal-Hi Sports has covered the CIF state finals in person (we’ve only missed one day since 1980), Kidd rates just ahead of John Williams of Crenshaw-Los Angeles as the best high school player we’ve ever seen.

But is Kidd the best player to ever come from a Northern California high school? If you are looking at it from the standpoint of players who are from a California high school and may not have developed yet at a young age, then the answer is a definite no.

This is because the legendary Bill Russell, who led the Boston Celtics to 11 NBA titles in 13 seasons, would be first. Russell, who is from McClymonds-Oakland, didn’t really get going until he went to USF and then later the 1956 U.S. Olympic team.

If you consider both high school accomplishment and what players did later, Kidd would be up there with the best in California history along with Bill Walton of Helix-La Mesa. Although Kidd should have been MVP of the league at least once during his years with the New Jersey Nets, he wasn’t, while Walton did get one MVP honor. Walton also led a team to an NBA title (Kidd got a ring, too, but he wasn’t the best player on the 2011 Dallas Mavericks team that won it all) and he was such a dominating force at UCLA. The only bittersweet aspect of when Jason does get into the Hall of Fame this summer is that not only will coach LaPorte not be there but neither will his father, Steve, who died in 1999. We’ll be watching, though, just like we were when he was in the ninth grade. ✪ 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 at @CalHiSports

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No Kidding

Bay Area Legend Is A Sure Fire Hall-Of-Famer

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BASKETBALL STATE TOP 10 1. (1)

BOYS

GIRLS

AFTER GAMES OF JAN. 29

AFTER GAMES OF JAN. 29

—

Bishop Montgomery-Torrance 23-0

1. (1)

—

Archbishop Mitty-San Jose 17-0

There have been some scares, especially a 67-66 win against

Ranked No. 1 in the state and nation, the Monarchs are cruis-

Cantwell-Sacred Heart in which Fletcher Tynen drilled a 35-foot

ing to easy wins in the West Catholic Athletic League. That

shot the buzzer for the winning points, but the Knights look

kind of dominance hasn’t always been the case, but this year’s

like they will be unbeaten heading into the CIF Southern Sec-

team is making sure the WCAL isn’t wild-and-wacky.

tion Open Division playoffs.

2. (2)

—

2. (2)

Salesian-Richmond 22-1

NorCal’s top-ranked squad took on previous No. 19 San Joaquin Memorial-Fresno at the Crush in the Valley in Napa and led 25-8 after one period, and the 86-74 win was not as close as the final score indicated.

3. (3)

—

Etiwanda 23-1

which went 35-0 two years ago with the Ball Brothers. Etiwanda still has to play the Huskies and Damien-La Verne one more time. The Eagles needed overtime to beat Damien last week.

—

Westchester-Los Angeles

20-4

Senior Kaelen Allen, who transferred from A.B. Miller-Fontana, is having an All-L.A. City season and has helped the Comets play No. 1 Bishop Montgomery down to the wire twice.

5. (5)

—

St. Mary’s-Stockton 19-2

rolling over Modesto Christian and Lincoln-Stockton.

3. (3)

—

Windward-Los Angeles 14-3

Southern California’s top contender for the Open Division is getting balanced scoring throughout the lineup and isn’t

This team is from the same Baseline League as Chino Hills,

4. (4)

—

The Rams closed out January on a 10-game win streak after

simply depending on Ms. Basketball State Player of the Year candidate Charisma Osborne.

4. (4)

—

Harvard-Westlake-N. Hollywood 18-4

The Wolverines have already beaten Bishop Alemany and Chaminade in the Mission League and hope to provide some time off before the playoffs for junior standout Jayla RufusMilner, who is battling a separated shoulder.

5. (6)

▲

Clovis West-Fresno 22-3

The Golden Eagles’ 54-game league streak received a test but

Sierra Canyon-Chatsworth 16-3

they passed with a 63-54 win over previous No. 5 Clovis North.

The Trailblazers, who have the sons of Scottie Pippen and

Madison Campbell has set a school record with 95 made

Kenyon Martin on the roster, recently faced Crossroads-Santa

3-pointers.

Monica, which is led by Shareef O’Neal, the son of Shaquille O’Neal. Sierra Canyon won 75-69.

6. (6)

—

6. (5)

▼

Clovis North-Fresno 20-3}

Despite the loss to Clovis West, head coach Heather Jones’

Mater Dei-Santa Ana 15-6

team only dropped one spot. The Broncos’ only other losses

The Monarchs avenged an earlier league loss with a win last

are to Harvard-Westlake and one of the top-ranked teams in

week against St. John Bosco-Bellflower and then beat state-

Wisconsin.

ranked Santa Margarita 67-49.

7. (8)

▲

7. (7)

Rancho Christian-Temecula 21-2

—

Pinewood- Los Altos Hills 17-1

Two years ago when St. Mary’s-Stockton was No. 1 in the na-

If this team doesn’t get to the CIFSS Open Division semifinals,

tion, it was the Panthers who shot the Rams from that pedestal

it would then be a threat for the CIF Division I state champion-

in the CIF NorCal Open Division semifinals. Will they have a

ship.

shot to do that again against Mitty in the CCS Open finals?

8. (10)

▲

Crespi-Encino

21-2

8. (8)

—

Mater Dei-Santa Ana 17-3

University of Arizona-bound Brandon Williams set a school

Coach Kevin Kiernan won his 800th game last week (includ-

single-game scoring record with 52 points in an 89-85 over-

ing a boys team he coached at the start of his career) and the

time win against Chaminade-West Hills.

Monarchs’ freshman-heavy lineup (Brooke Demetre & Khylee

9. (11)

▲

Modesto Christian 18-3

Pepe) seems to be getting better and better.

9. (9)

Christian’s state-record league winning streak. It wasn’t to be,

Bulldogs can’t look too far ahead, but it’s hard not to be think-

as Modesto Christian ran its continuing streak up to 178 games

ing about a potential matchup with No. 2 St. Mary’s in the CIF

with an 81-61 win.

Sac-Joaquin Section Div. I playoffs.

10. (12)

▲

Foothills Christian-El Cajon

19-5

—

Folsom 18-3

Some thought Beyer-Modesto had a chance to end Modesto

10. (10)

—

Carondelet-Concord 13-5

After taking over the top ranking in the San Diego Section, the

Since junior post Ali Bamberger has returned to full strength,

Knights rolled to wins over Francis Parker-San Diego (71-30)

the Cougars have given top-ranked Mitty a tussle in a 14-point

and Army-Navy of Carlsbad (70-51).

loss and began February on a five-game winning streak.

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Thinking about hosting a 2018 sporting event in the Bay Area and looking for the right location? Perhaps it’s time to take a look at Concord, where several other event organizers have found great success over the years.

Concord and the East Bay have proven themselves as ideal locations for hosting a great event — abundant fields for multiple teams, comfortable lodging and easy access for travelers near and far. Off the field and away from the stands, the dining and entertainment scene will keep players, their families and other sports fans well fed and lively. Center yourself in Concord and enjoy all of this and more, without breaking the bank.

Here’s just a few key reasons why event organizers choose Concord. ›› Accessibility. No matter where the teams are coming from, Concord is well-connected. Nestled in San Francisco’s East Bay, players are sure to find reasonable flights in and out of Oakland, San Francisco and San Jose’s airports. ›› Lodging. Concord’s nine hotels offer 1,300 rooms in close proximity to sporting amenities, providing plenty of space to host teams of any size. Entourages are welcome, too. ›› The right venue. Competing in state-of-the-art facilities is part of the thrill for athletes of any age. Whether you’re competing in a softball, basketball, bocce or badminton tournament, Concord has the right venue to accommodate plenty of sweaty athletes and riled-up spectators. ›› Affordability. We offer competitive pricing and are willing to work with

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your group to create an offer that meets your needs. Affordability doesn’t stop with our services — athletes and spectators can enjoy the delights of the East Bay with a reasonable budget. ›› Nearby amenities. Concord offers dining and entertainment options fit for a victory celebration or recovery from a tough loss. Hop on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system and explore San Francisco, dine at one of Concord’s 40 restaurants and breweries, and enjoy the best of the Bay — without Bay Area prices. ›› This isn’t their first rodeo. You don’t sub in your rookie player in the final quarter — and this shouldn’t be your host’s first time off the bench, either.

Concord hosts the West Coast Jamboree, the largest high school girls basketball tournament in the nation, featuring more than 128 teams from around the country.

“The hotel staffs at participating properties have made every effort to meet the hospitality needs of the large number of teams that travel to the West Coast Jamboree,” said Harold Abend, the associate executive director of the Jamboree.

Concord is looking to assist you in your planning needs to make your next sporting event a home run. Go to VisitConcordCa.com for more information.

— Copy provided by Visit Concord

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Behind the Clipboard by Clay Kallam

A Point About Points

We were watching the JV game before we played and one guy said that ball handling was the most important skill in the game because without a ball handler, no one would get a shot. (He’s a guard, by the way.) Another guy said it was rebounding, and somebody else said 3-point shooting. What is the most important thing in basketball?

G.A., Oakland

T

he most important thing is teamwork, as the Warriors have shown. It’s one thing to be skilled; it’s another to blend those skills in with the rest of the roster.

OK, that’s the coachly answer, but that really doesn’t get to the heart of your question, which is more about what skill will help a player most at the high school level. The answer was right there while you were watching the JVs run the offense: Look at the scoreboard.

The operative word? Score, because how do you determine which team wins the game?

Not by the number of rebounds. Not by the least number of turnovers. Not by the number of dunks. But by which team puts the round thing in the orange circle more often.

If the winner of the game was the team with the most rebounds, then rebounding would be the most important skill. If the winner of the game was the team with the highest free-throw shooting percentage, then free-throw shooting would be the most important skill. But since the determining factor is points, the player who can score points is always going to have a head start on getting his or her name announced when the game begins.

Here’s another way to look at it: Which team is more difficult to beat, the team that can put 75 points on the scoreboard any given night, or the team that relies on holding the opposition to 45 or fewer?

Sure, each can be a load, but to beat the team that can score, you have to be able to score.

And to go back to the Warriors, if they have one of those nights when they put up 125, then

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your only chance to win is if you can put up 126.

Another reason the team that relies on defense is more vulnerable is that it’s much harder to come back from a big deficit if your offensive weapons are limited. A run-and-gun team down by 10 is within striking range, even with just four minutes left; but that walk-the-ball-up zone team is going to have to work a lot harder to erase that deficit.

To be clear, a kid who shoots every time and thus racks up a lot of points isn’t necessarily going to help you win, but a relatively efficient offensive player who can create his or her own shot is incredibly valuable. (And of course, making free throws is a critical skill as well.) As a coach, I’d rather look out on the court and see four scorers who struggle to defend rather than four defenders who struggle to score — if nothing else, it’s a lot more fun to lose 84-80 than it is to lose 38-36.

But again, basketball is a team game, and really the most important skill is this one: The willingness to accept your role, and give your team what it needs most from your collection of skills and abilities. You may feel you could make five 3s a game, but if your team needs you to rebound and guard the other team’s best player, then that’s what you need to be willing to do.

Though, I have to say, if you can make five 3s a game, the coach will probably let you shoot a little, too. ✪

Clay Kallam has been an assistant athletic director and has coached numerous sports at 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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M

Jordan Brown rises to a McDonald’s All-American

J

ordan Brown’s meteoric rise to basketball notoriety took another leap in January when his name was included on the 2018 McDonald’s All-American roster for the renown All-Star contest March 28 in Atlanta.

The Prolific Prep Academy-Napa senior has won gold with Team USA in Spain and in Argentina. He previously carried Woodcreek High-Roseville to the CIF state title game, making history in the process for public schools and claiming the Timberwolves’ first Division I section title. Now, he can check off another accomplishment.

The 6-foot-11 forward from Roseville was one of 24 basketball players selected to play in the 41st annual boys all-star event, as part of the West squad.

“It’s an honor, especially considering all of the players who have done it before me, and what they’ve accomplished,” Brown admitted. “So to be a McDonald’s All-American is a blessing.”

Brown and his teammates will square off against the East team, led by the top two players in the country in R.J. Barrett and Zion Williamson. The West team has six of the top 10 players in the 2018 class, including Brown.

“This selection shows that my career is still on the rise,” Brown pointed out. “Being named one of those top guys and being able to compete on that level really shows what I’m accomplishing as a player.”

He’s also got NBA roots. Jordan’s father, Dion was once drafted by the San Antonio Spurs.

A sixth-round draft pick in 1984, Dion Brown reached the pros after four seasons at Louisiana–Lafayette. He was drafted the same year Hakeem Olajuwon was selected first by the Houston Rockets, Michael Jordan third by the Bulls and Charles Barkley fifth by the Sixers.

Dion Brown saw action in the Continental Basketball Association — a developmental league

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big

MAC Jordan Brown poses with NorCal’s other McDonald’s All-American, Folsom standout McKenzie Forbes.

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prior to the creation of the NBA G-League — before playing three years overseas.

“That’s about the time I decided to go into the Air Force,” Dion explained. “I played a lot of basketball during those days. A lot of basketball.”

As a member of the Air Force, Dion Brown was selected to play for the All-Armed Forces team, comprised of the 12 best players in the U.S. military. That’s when he roomed with Spurs legend David Robinson. The two were roommates at the Presidio in San Francisco and grew close.

“We used to go out to dinner with them all the time,” Dion recalled. “It’s funny because Jordan (Brown) is like the David Robinson of high school basketball. He’s a genuinely nice kid.

That’s his persona. He’s always friendly, but he’s competitive, too. He rarely backs down from people, so if you get a kid out there trying to rough him up … that’s the wrong thing to do. It’s like waking up a sleeping giant.”

Despite constant defensive pressure, Jordan Brown led the Sierra Foothill League in 2017 with 26 points per game, and averaged 11 boards. His dominance led to a 26-3 overall record and a berth in the state title game for a showdown against Southern private-school Bishop Montgomery-Torrance.

When Brown made the switch to Prolific Prep prior to the start of his senior season, he figured some of those double- and triple-teams would dissipate. To the contrary, he’s still seeing added attention from defenses across the nation, but he says that’s preparing him well for the collegiate level.

“I thought that was going to change when I went to a prep school, but it stayed the same,” Brown admitted. “But I think of it as a sign of respect.”

Despite the constant attention from opponents, Brown has somehow put up better numbers this season.

He’s averaging 23.5 points, 13.1 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game for Prolific Prep under the tutelage of coach Billy McKnight. Brown is following the footsteps of former academy stars Josh Jackson, currently a rookie playing for the Phoenix Suns, and Gary Trent Jr., the son of an NBA player who is in his freshman season at Duke — both of whom were McDonald’s AllAmericans.

“My time at Woodcreek really taught me how to be a leader,” Brown admitted. “At Prolific Prep, they have top competition for me to compete against, so both stops have really helped my game. “(Prolific Prep is a) good example of what I’ll be doing in college — flying to games, balancing school and competing against top competition. So I’m basically already competing against college-level players.”

An intense travel schedule and competitions against some of the top athletes in the nation has been beneficial for the big fella. He’s grown used to a rigorous travel schedule and continuous team schedules — knowing what to pack, what homework to complete before each trip for his classes at nearby Napa Christian High School and how to take care of his body on off-days.

“It hasn’t been too hard of a transition,” Brown said. “I competed against a lot of these same guys during the summer, but really it’s been harder getting used to all the traveling.”

His team earned a break in their schedule with a home slate of games at the end of January and a weekend off, but they still had team activities.

A few days after a ceremony at which he received his McDonald’s All-American jersey, Brown and his teammates hosted a fundraiser. To their surprise, Mark J. Spears — an ESPN and TheUndefeated.com national writer — spoke to the team.

“I guess (he knew who I was),” Brown admitted. “He gave a speech and he was talking a lot about me. That was cool, because you never really know who’s heard about you and what you’ve done and it’s coming from someone well known — that’s a good feeling.”

Spears has studied the top prospects in the country, and Brown’s name stood out. Although he is still undeclared, Brown has announced his top seven collegiate choices — UCLA, Oregon, Gonzaga, St. John’s, Louisiana-Lafayette, Nevada and Cal, in no apparent order.

He also plans to make an official visit this month to one of those programs, and has plans to announce his decision sometime this spring, barring any changes.

“We were thinking around springtime, but it could possibly be sooner,” he said.

“I’m really looking forward to playing at the collegiate level,” Brown added. “I’m looking to find a program that’s going to prepare me for the next level — a place where I get along with the staff and team.”

Brown said he may not wait until signing day to announce his choice.

From his list, most of his choices are on the West Coast, but Louisville-Lafayette seems like an outlier. Although the Ragin’ Cajuns program hasn’t had the recent success of the other schools, it maybe be hard to ignore the school where your dad is a member of the athletis Hall of Fame.

Brown and his team will square off against the East team at 4 p.m. March 28 live on ESPN. ✪ — Story By Steven Wilson, Photos By Samuel Stringer Follow us on Twitter & Instagram, like us on Facebook!

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February 2018

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NorCal TOC Wrestling TURNS 50 On March 10 the Northern California Tournament of Champions Wrestling Tournament, commonly referred to as the NorCal TOC, will celebrate 50 years — wow! This exciting event showcases the best middle school wrestlers in the state from sixth through eighth grade, all of whom had to prequalify to compete. The tournament takes place at Del Oro High School where they utilize both gymnasiums for the nearly 550 young athletes competing.

Reaching this incredible milestone would not have been possible without the outstanding leadership from longtime tournament director Rod Hedlund. “It’s exciting to celebrate the 50th Annual TOC. When I became the tournament director in 1973 I never envisioned that this would take place on my watch,” Hedlund said. “It has been an amazing journey to say the least; the tournament has gone through many changes and the evolution has been so much fun to be a part of over

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February 2018

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the years.”

Hedlund explained that he has always strived to make each year better by focusing on both the parents and the wrestlers.

“I think we’ve been able to do just that because I’ve had such great help and support from a group of colleagues and friends who have been with me for, in most cases, more than 30 years,” added Hedlund. “We take a lot of pride in being considered by most in the California wrestling community as the most prestigious youth tournament in Northern California.”

All you wrestling fans come celebrate and see these top youth wrestlers leave it all on the mats in hopes of being crowned champion of the 50th Annual NorCal TOC! Del Oro High School is located at 3301 Taylor Road in Loomis and the doors open at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 10. Admission prices are $7 for adults, ages 12 to 19 and seniors over 60 are $3, children under 12 are free! ✪

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Barrel Bonspiel Curling Event Likely To Gain Olympic Boost Placer Valley Tourism is thrilled to be teaming up again with the Wine Country Curling Club to bring the Barrel Bonspiel back for the second year in a row to the Skatetown Ice Arena in Roseville. This three-day curling tournament will take place on March 23-25 and the timing couldn’t be better with the Winter Olympics in South Korea having just showcased this unique sport from Feb. 9-25.

For those of you unfamiliar with what the sport of curling actually entails, it is an ice sport where players slide a 42-pound stone over a long sheet of ice that is 150 feet long and 15 feet wide. The goal is to hit the target at the other end, which is called the house. Often it is referred to as a hybrid between bowling and shuffleboard, but on ice.

WCCC President Katie Feldman explained that curling is a sport anyone can do as all ages and skill levels are welcome. “In 2017 WCCC taught approximately 150 people to curl with our learn-to-curl sessions and we are anticipating that number to double during the first half of 2018 with the excitement and buzz from the Winter Olympics.”

“Many of you will see it on TV in February and then want to try it yourself. We can help with that,” Feldman said. “Come to the Barrel Bonspiel and you’ll get to experience live the fun and quirkiness that this incredible sport delivers.”

The Barrel Bonspiel will feature several curling teams from throughout the country and include the popular “Hot Shot” contest that allows curlers the chance to be crowned the trick-shot master. Mark your calendars and come on down to Skatetown at 1009 Orlando Ave. in Roseville. We hope to see you there! ✪

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February 2018

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19

PLAYER OF THE YEAR TARIQ BRACY MILPITAS For Tariq Bracy, the closing scene of his amazing high school football career at Milpitas High was scripted perfectly.

Bracy and the Trojans earned their first state championship in spectacular fashion, coming from behind for a 45-41 win with a dramatic drive for a late score and then a defensive stop on Southwest-El Centro’s final drive. The running back/cornerback scored on a 70-yard run, a 57yard punt return and a 35-yard reception, and also on a two-point conversion for his team’s final points in the Division 4-A final. “It was crazy playing in that game,” Bracy said. “My first state title ... I have experienced nothing like that before.”

Add one more achievement for Bracy, who has kept making headlines by signing early to play at Notre Dame: He’s the SportStars NorCal Player of the Year.

Bracy, who finished 2017 with an astounding 2,653 all-purpose yards and 31 touchdowns, relishes the teammate role. It starts with his twin brother, TyRee, the Trojans’ standout quarterback.

He’s appreciated the opportunity to work closely with his twin.

“It’s been amazing,” said Tariq Bracy. “He knows what I am thinking and I know what he will be thinking.” TyRee Bracy has yet to decide on a college, but if the twins are at different schools, Tariq promises they will be “in constant communication” about football and life.

Tariq finished with 2,042 yards on the ground and another 299 in the air. On defense, he fit the shutdown corner role to a T, making 31 tackles and returning all three of his interceptions for touchdowns.

“I like to compete whether it’s offense, defense, special teams,” he said. “I am ready to take on those roles and I am fortunate that the team trusts me. I enjoy playing in all those facets.”

For the Trojans (14-1), their CIF playoff run ended some recent championship-game frustration. For the Bracys in particular, they had been on the losing side on three successive Central Coast Section championship games, and in NorCal losses in 2015 and 2016. “We came in hungry, so we laid all the marbles out there and we kept staying together as a team,” Bracy said.

To get to that state final, the Trojans first exacted some revenge on Campolindo-Moraga, which had beaten them in the regionals in 2015. This time, it was Bracy going for 312 yards and four scores, collecting an amazing 36 carries as Milpitas won its first NorCal title, taking some of the sting out of a loss the week before to Salinas in the CCS Open Division I title game.

Campolindo coach Kevin Macy said his defense put together a great effort that night, tightening the gaps at the line of scrimmage, despite being smaller. But he witnessed what havoc Bracy could bring.

“When you thought you had things closed down, all of a sudden Bracy would slip through and do it effortlessly,” Macy said. “They were able to trust running the ball on what normally would be a passing down. He kept extending drives.”

Of Bracy’s many roles and what he contributes on the field, Milpitas coach Kelly King points to one word that says the most: “Leadership.”

Bracy signed in December for Notre Dame, and the Fighting Irish look to utilize Bracy at cornerback, though he hopes to get chances to showcase his game-breaking ability on kick returns.

The magnitude of his opportunity is not lost on him.

“It was overwhelming,” said Bracy of his visit to South Bend. “Not that many people my age get that opportunity to play at Notre Dame. To compete in Power 5 football has been a dream of mine since I was playing youth football.”

In Bracy, Notre Dame gets an ultra-quick, well-conditioned athlete with a hearty can-do work ethic. “He’s very durable, he never got injured for us,” said King. “He will work as hard as he can. We’re excited to see him take that next big step and to see where he goes.”

Bracy’s competitive spirit should serve him well at the next level.

“He is a little quiet at times,” King said. “But as a football player he’s a great competitor. He’s someone who makes everyone around him better.”

And he made believers out of his opponents. “Maybe the best compliment came from our players; they all said he was a classy opponent,” Macy said. “People forget he was also lockedup on our top receiver on defense and held him below his numbers. He did everything.”

— Story By Mike Wood, Photo By Ed Oswalt

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February 2018

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OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

JOSEPH NGATA FOLSOM WIDE RECEIVER 22

SportStars™

February 2018

Joseph Ngata isn’t wasting any time.

Fresh off a 16-0 state championship season, the 6-foot-4, 210-pound Folsom High School receiver was begging to get back in the gym and start the preparation for next season as soon as 2018 began.

“I’ve been back in the gym and back on the field for a little while now, and it’s just a matter of time before I am more explosive and even stronger,” Ngata said. “I just take it day by day and stay humble.”

Ngata — the next big-time prospect coming out of Folsom following Jake Browning, Jonah Williams, Jordan Richards and Dano Graves — put together a phenomenal junior season in 2017.

He racked up 81 receptions for 1,777 yards and 26 touchdowns, adding 150 rushing yards, a score and 188 kick return yards en route to earning SportStars Offensive Player of the Year honors.

“Joe was a massive part of our offense — especially once the season got rolling and we saw how much Joe had developed, even from last year — we knew we had to manufacture as many touches to Joe as possible,” Folsom coach Kris Richardson said. “That’s where the reverses, and actually handing the ball off to him on jet sweeps and moving him around in the offense to be sure we’re maximizing his touches, which makes defenses adjust to him and that opened up the rest of the offense.”

One such reverse came against league rival Granite Bay on Sept.

29. Despite only leading by a touchdown at halftime, Ngata blew the game wide open with a sweeping 80-yard touchdown — juking and dodging defenders up and down the field.

That was classic Ngata. His big-play ability showed up most when the competition was the toughest.

After recording a touchdown catch in eight straight regular-season games, Ngata exploded for 679 yards and 11 scores in the playoffs.

In the Sac-Joaquin Section championship game, he had four touchdown catches in the first half against St. Mary’s-Stockton. He finished with 213 yards on eight receptions as his team claimed a 50-21 victory.

Two weeks later, Ngata helped the Bulldogs bring home state championship hardware with a hard-fought 49-42 win over Helix-La Mesa.

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“Winning those championships didn’t come as a surprise to us,” Ngata confessed. “That’s what we expected to do.”

Collegiate offers came rushing in. The stellar 2017 season helped Ngata gain the attention of national powers Clemson, Florida, Michigan, Florida State, USC, Notre Dame, Oregon, Penn State, Utah, Washington, Cal, UCLA and Oregon State, among others.

“He’s got huge next-level potential,” Richardson said. “USC, Clemson, Florida, Utah, Oregon, every Pac-12 school, and notable national teams — and I said it early in the year, I thought Joe was the best receiver in the state of California, if not the western United States, as a junior.”

The longtime Bulldogs coach noted Ngata’s ability to play the ball in the air, use his size, and his speed, to create separation from defenders and block in the run game.

His ceiling has scouts drooling with anticipation, and many booked trips from the East Coast routinely to see him compete.

“I actually had some recruiting coaches come through, and Clemson was talking about him — how most guys are either fast, or big. But Joe is a big, fast guy,” Richardson said. “That’s rare. To be a 6-foot-4, 210-pound receiver and even though it doesn’t look like he’s moving that fast, he’s pulling away from everybody.”

Ngata’s 1,777 receiving yards are the most for a Folsom receiver since 2011 when J’Juan Muldrow had 1,895 in 14 games. Furthermore, his 81 receptions are tied for sixth in the program’s last decade.

Now he can add to his trophy case with another postseason award.

With Ngata already training for next season, Folsom fans are wondering how many records will remain standing when his career is complete.

“That’s the great thing about Joe — he’s not going to be satisfied with where he was at, or where we were as a team,” Richardson said.

“He’s driven to be better than where we were in 2017. And with all those guys coming back, there’s no reason we can’t be (better).”

That’s scary news for opposing defenses. ✪ — Story by Steven Wilson, Photos by James K. Leash

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ALL-NORCAL OFFENSE STARTERS QB — Kaiden Bennett | Folsom | Jr. | 6-0, 175. The Bulldogs’ signal caller did it all in leading Folsom to its third CIF State Bowl Championship and a perfect 16-0 record.

He accounted for 5,649 total yards and 73 touchdowns and earned MaxPreps Junior AllAmerica recognition.

RB — Tariq Bracy | Milpitas | Sr. | 6-0, 170.

The NorCal Player of the Year made a massive impact for the Trojans, rushing for 2,042 yards and scoring 31 total TDs, including three interception returns for scores. The Notre Dame commit came up biggest when it counted as he rushed for a TD, caught a TD pass, and returned a punt for a score in a thrilling 45-41 CIF State Bowl Championship win.

RB — Cameron Cherry | Oakdale | Sr. | 6-1, 195. The senior was possibly the Mustangs’ greatest weapon in a vaunted Wing-T attack, finishing with 2,154 yards rushing and scoring 30 total TDs. Cherry recorded four 200-yard games, including 203 yards and a gamewinning 44-yard run on fourth down with 21 seconds left of a league-title clinching win.

WR — Joe Ngata | Folsom | Jr. | 6-3, 205. Our NorCal Offensive Player of the Year still has another year for colleges to flock to Folsom after hauling in 81 catches for 1,777 yards and 26 TDs. He also managed a rushing score, a 99-yard kickoff return TD, punting duties and a pass completion in the Bulldogs’ CIF State Bowl Championship victory.

WR — Vince Mossotti | Campolindo-Moraga | Sr. | 6-0, 185. Recorded his second consecutive 1,200-yard receiving season, with 77 catches for 1,219 yards and 16 TDs to help the Cougars win the NCS Div. II title.

TE — Spencer Webb | Christian BrothersSacramento | Sr. | 6-6, 235. Oregon-bound star was literally head and shoulders above the competition with 61 receptions for 1,063 yards and 23 TDs. He had a TD catch in all 12 of the games he played in, and added 8 sacks from his DE position.

OL — Max Barth | St. Mary’s-Stockton | Sr. | 6-6, 285. Rams’ blocker paved the way for more than 3,000 rushing yards and is still weighing offers from multiple Pac-12 and Big West schools.

OL — Will Craig | Granite Bay | Sr. | 6-4, 280.

Cal-bound tackle anchored both lines for the Grizzlies, but was more influential on the offensive side of the ball to help Granite Bay with the Sac-Joaquin Section Division II title.

OL — Bryan Catchings | Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills | Sr. | 6-3, 270. Bruising blocker was key to the Trojans’ success and will take his considerable blocking talents to UNLV. OL — Brandon Mello | Clayton Valley-Concord | Sr. | 6-7, 290. Cal-bound star anchored line for offense that racked up more than 4,700 yards in only 11 games.

OL — Miles Owens | Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland | Sr. | 6-7, 310. Massive Dragons blocker helped team reach NCS Div. III semifinals, and will not travel far next year when he moves on to Cal. He also plays hoops for O’Dowd.

K — Mariano Robles | Milpitas | Sr. | 6-2, 170.

Tallied 108 points for the Trojans, converting 12-of-13 field goals and 72-of-73 PATs. He was perfect in the postseason, including 3-for3 FG and 13 points in the state final.

REST OF THE ROSTER QB — Spencer Petras | Marin Catholic-Kentfield | Sr. | 6-5, 255. Iowa commit threw for 4,000+ yards, 50 TD and just 2 INTs. QB — Gino Campiotti | Manteca | Sr. | 6-3, 195. Dual-threat star led Buffaloes to SJS Div. III title with 3,807 yards of offense and 52 TDs by air and by ground.

RB — Darrell Page | St. Francis-Mountain View | Jr. | 5-10, 185. Rushed for CCS-best 2,206 yards, 23 TDs while eclipsing the century mark 12 times en route to a NorCal title.

RB — Isiah Kendrick | Serra-San Mateo | Sr. | 5-11, 175. Padres’ speedy back rushed for 1,620 yards and 30 TDs and added four receiving scores.

RB — Vincent Smith | Shasta-Redding | Sr. | 5-9, 190. Northern Section’s leading rusher gained 2,363 yards and scored multiple TDs in 10 games.

WR — Peter Brown | Marin Catholic-Kentfield | Sr. | 6-2, 205. Navy commit was the leading receiver for high-scoring Wildcats team that won NCS DIII championship.

WR — Anthony Bradley | Sacramento | Sr. | 6-2, 185. Dragons’ wideout made the most of nine games played with at least one TD each game and 844 yards receiving and 15 scores.

WR — A’jae Boyd | Pittsburg | Sr. | 5-10, 175. Two-way starter and Bay Valley Athletic League MVP hauled in 50 catches for 916 yards and nine TDs, and added a rushing TD. TE — Ben Skinner | Marin Catholic-Kentfield | Sr. | 6-2, 195. Set program’s single-game receiving yards record with a 256-yard effort en route to a 1,025 yard season.

OL — Jarrett Kingston | Anderson | Sr. | 6-5, 255. Washington State commit owned the trenches and helped the Cubs average nearly 230 yards rushing per game.

OL — Nico Sarale | Oakdale | Sr. | 6-4, 260.

Fresno State signee led the way for Mustangs’ feared Wing-T rushing attack.

OL — Kyle Reis | Manteca | Sr. | 6-3, 280.

Hulking blocker paved the way for Buffaloes to claim a second consecutive SJS title.

K — Seppi Ortman | Campolindo | Sr. | 6-0, 165. Two-sport star made 65 of 66 PATs and 10 of 13 FGs, including three from at least 40 yards out. ✪

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only the High school rugby season is officially underway. The Sacramento Valley Rugby Foundation hosted the 34th Annual Kick Off Tournament at Cordova High School on Jan. 27-28. The tournament featured girls and boys competition in divisions for ages ranging from Under-8 to Varsity. The high school season will get underway in earnest on Feb. 3. Schedules can be found at RugbyNorCal.Org. In the meantime, here’s a few shots from the KOT Division I Boys varsity action by SportStars photographer, Dave Lawicka.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Members of Jesuit-Carmichael and McClatchy-Sacramento varsity boys engage in a scrum during a Saturday match; McClatchy’s Junior Waqavesi breaks loose against Jesuit; McClatchy’s Andy Vang tried to run through an attempted tackle; A member of Peninsula Green Rugby Club kicks off to open a match against Jesuit.

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February 2018

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DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

HENRY TO'OTO'O DE LA SALLECONCORD LINEBACKER 26

SportStars™

February 2018

Henry To’oto’o began his varsity career at De La Salle High as a sophomore in 2016.

But it wasn’t particularly planned that way.

The linebacker, who was new to the school after moving from Sacramento, began that year on the junior varsity. Then some early-season injuries at the varsity level led to To’oto’o being asked to come up and help out.

“We immediately said to each other, ‘What’s this guy doing on JV?’” De La Salle defensive coordinator Terry Eidson recalled. “We told the JV coach, ‘You will never see him again,’ and he came back with, ‘Yeah, I kind of figured that.’”

A season and a half later, the 6-foot-2, 210-pound To’oto’o closed out his junior season as the Spartans’ leading tackler and has attracted a who’s who list of suitors from college programs throughout the country. He’s also earned the honor of being named SportStars NorCal Defensive Player of the Year.

To’oto’o (pronounced Toe-Oh-Toe-Oh) was hard to miss while watching the 2017 De La Salle defense. When the whistle was blown to signify the end of a play, you could bet No. 11 was standing near the ball — or getting up so the ball carrier could do the same.

“Some people are just kind of born to be linebackers, and I think he’s just one of those kind of kids,” Eidson said. “He’s got some real natural ability. Put that with the hard work and the love for the game and someone so studious, you’re going to have yourself quite a player.”

If To’oto’o, who is half-Samoan and half-Tongan, wasn’t specifically born to be a linebacker, it was the next closest thing.

“I knew I wanted to be a linebacker when I was really young,” To’oto’o said. “My dad always pushed me to consider the position because he was a linebacker. That was what he knew and he wanted to coach me up.”

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To’oto’o said his dad earned one offer from San Diego State, but was unable to take it at the time. Henry won’t have such a problem.

A four-star recruit and ranked by ESPN as the 12th overall prospect in the country for the 2019 class, To’oto’o has offers from Michigan, Notre Dame, Oregon, Washington and reigning national champion Alabama.

“He’s got a quick trigger,” Eidson said. “The first thing you look for in a linebacker is someone who can read and go. And he can read and go. He’s an excellent tackler, which is another thing you look for in a linebacker. And he doesn’t run around blocks. He’s not afraid to take on linemen.”

But what may possibly separate him in the eyes of scouts is his love for the game.

“He’s out there doing what we like to call the Henry Clap after making a play,” Eidson said smiling. “And it’s not disrespectful at all.

He’s just excited to be out there and making plays. You love to have a defensive guy who’s excited to play the game.”

To’oto’o and the De La Salle defense held opponents to seven points or less in seven of their 13 contests. The Spartans, who finished No. 1 in SportStars’ final NorCal Top 20 rankings for 2017, lost a road game to Bishop Gorman-Las Vegas on Sept. 16 before winning eight straight and capturing the program’s 26th consecutive North Coast Section title. De La Salle then represented Northern California in the CIF Open Division Bowl Championship, where it lost to eventual mythical national champion Mater Dei-Santa Ana 52-21.

“We had a lot of young talent,” To’oto’o said of the 2017 defense.

“I’m really looking forward to being with everybody again. And redeeming myself at state.”

That should be a quest worth watching. ✪ — Chace Bryson

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ALL-NORCAL DEFENSE STARTERS DL — Tyler Manoa | St. Francis-Mountain View | Sr. | 6-5, 285. The four-star recruit punctuated a stellar career at St. Francis with a sack late in the fourth quarter of a Div. II-A State Bowl Championship victory. Manoa has narrowed his college choices to Oregon, UCLA and Utah.

DL — Tuli Letuligasenoa | De La SalleConcord | Sr. | 6-2, 295. USC-bound Tuli Letuligasenoa dominates the interior of the line. Despite fighting through knee soreness, he was vital to De La Salle’s 11-2 campaign and was considered a top Bay Area recruit of 2018.

DL — Jack Powers | Granite Bay | Sr. | 6-3, 205. Heartbeat of the Granite Bay defense amassed 23 tackles for loss and 14 sacks (both school records) as the Grizzlies stormed to a 12-3 season and NorCal bowl appearance.

DL — Atonio Mafi | Serra-San Mateo | Sr. | 6-3, 360. The hulking UCLA-commit tore his Achilles in the first round of the playoffs, but it didn’t stifle a remarkable career for the 2017 West Catholic Athletic League MVP. LB — Henry To’oto’o | De La Salle-Concord | Jr. | 6-2, 210. Our Defensive Player of the Year is a great blitzing linebacker with remarkable vision and closing speed. He was the leading tackler for the NorCal Open Div. representative and is likely to have his pick of any major college program.

LB — Nate Otto | Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills | Sr. | 6-1, 207. Otto was a menace to opposing offenses, totalling 112 solo tackles, four sacks and a blocked punt. The Sierra Foothill League Defensive MVP helped the Trojans to an 11-2 record.

LB — Nicholas Einess | Liberty-Brentwood | Jr. | 5-8, 145. He plays much bigger than he is.

Einess blocked two kicks, intercepted a pass and made a team-high 130 tackles as Liberty went 11-2 and won its first North Coast Section title.

DB — Jevon Holland | Bishop O’DowdOakland | Sr. | 6-1, 182. The Oregon-signee intercepted five passes on defense and rolled up over 1,600 yards as a kick-returner and receiver. He was vital to Bishop O’Dowd’s 9-3 season.

DB — Davion Ross | Inderkum-Sacramento | Sr. | 5-11, 170. With six interceptions in 2017, Ross brought his career total to 18 in three years. He took two picks to the house this season and also ran for over 600 yards on 38 carries.

DB — D’Angelo McKenzie | Valley ChristianSan Jose | Sr. | 5-10, 165. Mackenzie, bound for Washington State, did just about everything for Valley Christian (777 all-purpose yards), and his play at free safety played a major role in the Warriors’ 9-3 season.

DB — Charles Alberty | McClymondsOakland | Sr. | 5-11, 180. The Oakland Athletic League Co-Player of the Year saved his best football for the Div. 5-AA State Bowl Championships. He caught two TD passes, intercepted a pass and returned a fumble for a TD. AP — John Torchio | Campolindo-Moraga | Sr. | 6-2, 190. Mr. All-Purpose completed 226 passes for 3,314 yards behind center, ran for 761 yards, and landed 98 tackles with seven interceptions on defense. He amassed 50 touchdowns and was also the team’s punter.

REST OF THE ROSTER DL — Tyler Hardeman | Folsom | Jr. | 6-2, 250 | Totalled 15 tackles for loss and five sacks for state champion Folsom.

DL — Tyler Gillming | Sutter | Sr. | 6-2, 220 | Blocked a punt and nabbed 11.5 sacks.

DL — Jacob Bandes | Pittsburg | Jr. | 6-2, 275 | Four-star recruit had 50 tackles (19 for loss) and six sacks, including 2.5 in state final.

DL — Laiatu Latu | Jesuit-Carmichael | Jr. | 6-5, 242 | He amassed 12 sacks, two blocked punts and two interceptions.

LB — Dawson Gruhler | University PrepRedding | Sr. | 6-2, 220 | With 91 solo tackles (29 for loss), Gruhler was beastly in 2017.

LB — Marshaun Hunter | Del Campo-Fair Oaks | Sr. | 6-3, 218 | Playmaker nabbed two defensive touchdowns, two picks and four fumble recoveries.

LB — Dakota Van Dyke | Cosumnes Oaks-Elk Grove | Sr. | 5-11, 185 | Assisted on 101 tackles and managed 20 tackles for loss.

DB — Trevor Brouhns | Del Campo-Fair Oaks | Sr. | 5-10, 155 | Posted a Sac-Joaquin Section-best 10 interceptions in 2017.

DB — Tanner Ward | Folsom | Sr. | 5-9, 182 | Had nine tackles (two for loss) and a sack in 1-AA state bowl finale.

AP — Justin Poerio | Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills | Sr. | 5-11, 180 | Caught 78 balls, returned kicks, booted field goals and intercepted five pases.

AP — Dylan Williams | Half Moon Bay | Sr. | 5-9, 155 | Rolled up 1,087 all-purpose yards and 103 kicking points.

AP — Tanner Mendoza | Cardinal NewmanSanta Rosa | Sr. | 5-9, 175 | Posted 1,697 allpurpose yards and 135 tackles on defense, AP — Travis Warren | Placer-Auburn | Sr. | 6-0, 175 | Had 146 receiving yards, two touchdowns and an interception in 4-AA state final. ✪

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February 2018

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27

COACH

OF THE YEAR

PAUL CRONIN CARDINALNEWMANSANTA ROSA

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SportStars™

February 2018

When the sun rose on the city of Santa Rosa on the morning of Oct. 9, it brought light to chaos. The Tubbs Fire, a blaze that began in Calistoga and was accelerated by howling winds, had already ravaged parts of the city and was still burning its way through what would eventually total more than 5,600 structures across three counties before it was officially 100 percent contained — 22 days later.

The campus of Cardinal Newman was home to some of those structures.

That morning and across the ensuing 24 hours, Cardinal Newman football coach Paul Cronin would eventually learn that 20 classrooms, the library, the main administration building and the baseball field had been erased from the Cardinal Newman campus. And five of his players, including his starting quarterback, had lost their homes.

Thus, his 15th season leading the Cardinals program would be like no other.

Despite spending the rest of their season borrowing the facilities of schools like Rancho Cotate-Rohnert Park and El Molino-Forestville, having games cancelled, and having no true home field advantage — and quite honestly, having to rekindle a passion for the game — Cronin helped shepherd his players to a good place. And from that good place, came shelter in the form of diversion and routine.

For this alone, he was deserving of SportStars NorCal Coach of the Year honors. A no-brainer choice in a season that included other stellar candidates who were considered, including PIttsburg’s Victor Galli, Placer-Auburn’s Joey Montoya, Serra-San Mateo’s Patrick Walsh and McClymonds-Oakland’s Michael Peters.

But Cardinal Newman football didn’t just survive the wreckage. It won in spite of it. The Cardinals would lose their first game after the fires on Oct. 23, but would follow it with five straight wins to earn the North Bay League title and eventually reach the North Coast Section Div. III championship. In the NCS semifinals, Newman came from behind to beat Rancho Cotate 29-28. They would fall 59-56 to Marin Catholic-Kentfield in the championship game.

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Cronin’s efforts were a marvel to the many writers who covered the team’s story.

“Being literally in the middle of the worst wildfire of California history, literally in the middle of your season, and to come mere points away from winning a section championship is really unfathomable,” MaxPreps.com senior writer Mitch Stephens said. “Yet, Paul Cronin, showing this unique combination of strength, compassion and authenticity, kept that program not only afloat, but also focused and resolved.

“It was far beyond a coaching job. It was an impeccable display of leadership and humanity. One those players — and community — will never forget.”

Cronin, of course, said the credit belonged to his players.

“They’re super smart kids, they’re super tough kids, and they love one another,” Cronin told the San Francisco Chronicle following the team’s season-ending loss. “So I had no doubt they were going to come back (after the fire) and play hard and see their season through.

I’m really proud of them.”

That’s coaching. ✪ — Story by Chace Bryson, Photo by Harold Abend

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1. (1) 2. (2) 3. (3) 4. (5) 5. (6) 6. (11) 7. (9) 8. (8) 9. (10) 10. (4) 11. (7) 12. (15) 13. (16) 14. (17) 15. (18) 16. (NR) 17. (13) 18. (12) 19. (NR) 20. (NR) 1. (1) 2. (2) 3. (3) 4. (4) 5. (5) 6. (6) 7. (7) 8. (8) 9. (9) 10. (10) 11. (11) 12. (12) 13. (13) 14. (14) 15. (19) 16. (16) 17. (17) 18. (18) 19. (20) 20. (NR)

As of January 27 BOYS — Salesian-Richmond — Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland — Modesto Christian ▲ Sheldon-Sacramento ▲ Bellarmine-San Jose ▲ Dublin ▲ Clayton Valley-Concord — Capital Christian-Sacramento ▲ Berkeley ▼ Folsom ▼ St. Francis-Mountain View ▲ Heritage-Brentwood ▲ Menlo School-Atherton ▲ Palo Alto ▲ Las Lomas-Walnut Creek ▲ College Park-Pleasant Hill ▼ St. Ignatius-S.F. ▼ Jesuit-Carmichael ▲ Campolindo-Moraga ▲ Piedmont Hills-San Jose GIRLS — Archbishop Mitty-San Jose — St. Mary’s-Stockton — Folsom — Salesian-Richmond — Pinewood-Los Altos Hills — St. Joseph Notre Dame-Alameda — Carondelet-Concord — Miramonte-Orinda — Cardinal Newman-Santa Rosa — McClatchy-Sacramento — Bear Creek-Stockton — San Ramon Valley-Danville — Bishop O’Dowd-Oakland — Castro Valley ▲ Heritage-Brentwood — Eastside College Prep-E. Palo Alto — Dublin — California-San Ramon ▲ Pleasant Valley-Chico ▲ James Logan-Union CIty

22-1 15-5 18-3 17-3 16-2 18-3 19-1 14-7 17-3 17-4 14-4 18-2 16-1 16-2 18-2 16-3 12-6 16-4 14-6 17-1 18-0 19-2 18-3 17-4 17-1 17-3 12-5 16-4 18-4 16-5 21-2 18-2 9-10 17-3 13-6 15-4 18-3 17-4 14-4 18-1

Clovis West-Fresno players celebrate their 2017 CIF Open Division championship.

OPEN Ended Questions

Unknowns Abound As CIF Leaves Enrollment Era And Embraces Competitive Equity Approach Call it a black box.

That’s a phrase used in almost every branch of science to de-

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February 2018

Perceptive readers will have noticed the “up to eight”

scribe a mysterious something that absorbs input and through

phrase, which is just more uncertainty, as the committee does

some opaque process, creates new output.

not have to fill the Open bracket — or any other bracket — if

The “mysterious something” in this case is the CIF commit-

it doesn’t want to. The other 80 (or so) teams will be placed

tee that, on one very long day in March, will first select every

in divisions I through V, and that’s really where the adventure

team to play in the Northern California and Southern California

begins.

Regional basketball playoffs, and then seed them in order, from

First, a little history: Up until very recently, all high schools

1 to as many as 88, in four different regions (two boys, north

were classified into divisions by enrollment, with the adminis-

and south, and two girls, north and south).

trative assumption that pretty much all 1,500-student schools

First, CIF is uncertain as to exactly how many people will

were alike. It has become crystal clear, however, that enrollment

be on the committee, though it is known that the 10 section

has little to do with postseason success, especially in basket-

commissioners will have a seat. Around 10 more CIF officials

ball, and that a smaller school can not only compete with, but

will be involved on that fateful Sunday, and however many of

dominate, a school with five or even 10 times its enrollment.

them there are will start by selecting up to eight teams for the

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NorCal and SoCal boys and girls Open divisions.

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So the CIF has ponderously been moving in the direction of

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competitive equity, the idea that teams will be placed in NorCal and SoCal brackets based not on their enrollment, but their accomplishments on the court. And this year, for the first time, enrollment is not a factor, at all, in where teams will be placed after the section playoffs end. (The six NorCal sections, however, still conduct their playoffs on a modified enrollment basis.)

The goal, then, is this: The best eight NorCal boys teams will be in the Open division; the next 16 (numbers nine through 24 in the eyes of the committee) will be Division I; and so on until team No. 88 is the 16th seed in Division V. Let’s pause for a second and consider: Since enrollment is not a factor, it is very probable that the 300-student Pinewood-Los Altos Hills girls team will be in either the NorCal Open Division or Division I, given its achievements on the court. It is also possible that Franklin-Elk Grove, with an enrollment of 2,767, could be at the bottom of the NorCal Division V boys’ bracket, as MaxPreps rates it the 163rd best boys team in the state.

Of course, that rating is computer-generated, so one natural question is whether the committee with its unknown number of members will pay close attention to the MaxPreps computer.

Well, according to Cici Robinson, the CIF director who oversees basketball, the answer is “yes and no.”

The committee will look at the MaxPreps’ ratings. The committee will look at media rankings. The committee will look at head-to-head results. The committee will consider injuries and teams that are playing well lately. But most important, the committee will consider the lists submitted by the various sections of teams eligible for the regional playoffs — lists that rank the teams in order of competitive equity, not by enrollment or division.

We’ll narrow it down to one NorCal bracket here to make

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it simpler. The six NorCal sections are allotted 82 automatic qualifying slots, ranging from two each for the Oakland and San Francisco sections to 24 for North Coast Section. That, a perceptive reader might note, is fewer than 88, the number of available bracket positions, so sections are allowed to submit more teams for at-large consideration. Simple enough, but in the past the Central Coast Section has submitted fewer than its 20 allotted teams, and may well submit just 18 this year (its eight Open teams and its two champions from divisions I through V).

Oh, and did we mention that if the committee feels the urge, it can move teams from the Central Section — which usually sends its teams to the Southern California Regionals — into the NorCal brackets?

So to recap, we have an unknown number of committee members deciding the bracketing for an unknown number of teams from an unknown number of sections using an unknown set of criteria to determine how those teams are ranked — in a limited amount of time. Yes, since the same committee does both the boys and girls bracketing for the entire state, decisions need to be made on 384 teams (it could be that many, but who knows for sure) in basically one day.

Robinson assures us that the committee members will be evaluating teams long before that Sunday in March so they won’t rush to judgment, but she does concede the whole process is, well, a black box. “We’re just as curious as you are to see how it all works out,” she says, and no one will really know much of anything until all those brackets are finally announced.

By the way, that’s one thing we do know: The black box and its output will be revealed March 4 — but anything beyond that is pretty much pure guesswork. ✪ — Story by Clay Kallam, Photo by James K. Leash

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Increased Mastery and Professional Application of Coaching Theory details all aspects of coaching volleyball from legal responsibilities, to parent engagement, coaching principles, motor skill and drill development, to game play.

IMPACT provides a complete framework to be a successful coach, and as such, USA Volleyball mandates IMPACT certification for coaches.

IMPACT’s primary goal is to help coaches become wellskilled in the awesome responsibility and opportunity they contain to influence young athletes. Thus, it is crucial to have a functioning coaching philosophy — a set of values to guide their unique style of coaching, which IMPACT helps coaches develop.

Craig Wong, coach of Marin Juniors, defines his philosophy as “celebrate wins and define success beyond the scoreboard.” In his mind, “success is the long-term development of players” and defines two priorities two be successful: Firstly, teaching players how to learn through developing grit, a growth mindset, embracing challenges and setbacks; secondly, inspiring athletes to play for something bigger than themselves through owning a specific team culture — one that celebrates diversity, relationships and fosters open communication.

When asked about how his coaching philosophy has impacted his athletes, he said they’ve grown to be flexible and strong problems solvers: “They are good learners, are willing to take risks, and take responsibility for success and

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setbacks.”

Flexibility, good communication skills, accountability, and passion about self-growth are components to build individuals who thrive in continuous change.

IMPACT also helps coaches understand off-court responsibilities: risk management, legal duty, insurance etc. Coach Oliver Dofiles of San Francisco Tremors said it would be “very difficult” to manage a team when problems arise without IMPACT. This course is an offshoot of the Coaching Accreditation Program, another USA Volleyball program. Once a coach is IMPACT certified, they are eligible to take CAP I — one of three levels of CAP certification.

Coach Dofiles describes IMPACT as providing the basic coaching approach and definitions (answering the question “What”) while CAP provides the structure (answering the question “How”) to enable effective coaching.

“Together, IMPACT plus CAP, I feel are complementary and provide the complete tool to enable successful coaching,” Dofiles said.

CAP has on-court sessions to provide hands-on learning; instructors vary by site, but all USAV instructors are CAP III certified, background screened, current USAV members, and have years of coaching experience from high school to collegiate to the USA national team.

IMPACT also identifies the latest resources available to

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help create or improve any program. One such resource is Art of Coaching (AOC) — but what makes AOC unique?

“AOC reinforces that coaching volleyball is dynamic,” Dofiles siad. “There’s no exact formula on how to be successful. You must combine a lot of different approaches and decide how to apply the learnings based on the team needs.”

What is his coaching philosophy, if Dofiles believes there’s no exact formula to be successful? Practice makes perfect.

“While it is acceptable to make mistakes, it is equally important that athletes understand the mistakes and learn from them,” the coach said. He also noted while IMPACT and CAP challenged his preconception that coaches must have all the answers to every question, his direct experience as a coach challenged this as well. He’s learned that “many insights could be gained by listening to my players and fellow coaches. Empowering the athletes to think, be creative and convey strategies that are out of the box makes the team more engaged and receptive to ideas.”

Dofiles also observed that not only are his players’ health and endurance much improved through his philosophy, their levels of focus have improved — translating to improved performance both on the court as well as at school and home. Volleyball nurtures players’ development emotionally, mentally and physically — beyond the court — but only through impactful coaching. ✪ — Kim Lampi for NCVA

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three step ladder

TO SUCCESS

powered by trucks: anthony trucks In the next five minutes you’re going to find out three specific steps you can take to get the most out of each training session for the rest of your life.

No matter who you are, you’re in training mode at this time of the year. Athlete or active adult, this time of the year is when you’re trying to make sure you stick to your New Year’s resolution, or stick to your training regimen to give yourself the best edge to succeed.

In my experience there are a few things that people have to do to make sure the work they’re doing in the weight room is the best use of their time. Without these three things in place, you’re setting yourself up for failure without even knowing it.

First, ask yourself this question and if you can answer it in two seconds or less, then you’re good. If not, you can check the first box of three that you need to improve.

Do you know exactly what your next workout is going to be?

See, very few people take the time before a workout to make the most of their time during the actual workout. They walk into a gym and wander around assuming that their body will wander into being stronger or looking better.

The absolute first step is to get yourself a program designed specifically to get you from point A to your desired point B. This program should go through stages that build upon the previous stage so you can track the progress and make adjustments when you need to push closer to your goal. Without a program built for you that you actually follow, you’re wasting time.

Secondly, I’m just going to come right out and say it: The goal you have is going to take daily effort that is very far out of

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your comfort zone. Most people’s goals are at an effort level of, let’s say, 10. But their level of “max effort” is at a lowly six. So no matter how hard you want to reach your goal you never will until you’re willing to push your max effort up every day until you reach that 10. So you are not allowed to use the statement, “I’ve worked as hard as I can and nothing’s working” if you really have a goal you want to reach.

Lastly, and absolutely most important, you have to stop sacrificing form for weight. One thing that still seems to be plaguing every weight room I go to is people using more weight than their body should handle for that specific movement.

Just picture the last person you saw adding too much weight to a bar before they squat and watching them do heavy knee pumps. This forces your body into compensation and makes other parts of your body take on loads they’re not supposed to, which can lead to injury.

The other part is that you fail to work the desired muscle you’re trying to target. This means that even with the perfect program, you’ll still fail to get the results you want out of your training. So lighten the weight. Use full range. Then increase things over time to improve.

These three steps are easy to follow but hard to implement.

At the end of the day we know you don’t want easy, you want results. So take the time to implement these three steps and watch your training take your results in the weight room to the next level. ✪ Anthony Trucks is an IYCA-certified trainer who covers strength training for SportStars.

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think the

RIGHT THOUGHTS

The goal of any skill-based training session is to put information into action. Whether it’s a new skill or tuning up fundamentals, intense training requires thinking. That’s right, I said it … thinking!

If you follow my articles, you know I’m always talking about less thinking, miminal thinking, no thinking. Less thinking is ideal once you’ve learned your skills. This allows you to move with seamlessness and speed and the game feels easier … the brakes are off and you are comfortably cruising at high speed.

This is what’s also referred to as “the zone.”

Training, however, is a different story. This is the time to think through what’s being asked of you. Slow down.

Be thorough. Think about it. Work thought it. Visualize it. Execute it.

Speed it up. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

Here are three tips for your ideal training mindset: ›› 1. Use instructions — When you’re thinking through what you’ve been asked to do, take a moment and boil it down to its bare bones. Here’s how: Take your coach’s instructions and put them into the fewest words you can. For example, if your coach asked you to dribble to the cones, turn back, switch hands, dribble back, that can translate to, “cone, turn, switch, back.” Imagine how much quicker you can process the latter vs. the former statement! With some awareness and practice, you will find that translating statements is helpful throughout your training sessions … and games, too! ›› 2. Stay calm — Keeping emotions in check will allow for a more efficient learning process. It’s not unusual to become frustrated when learning new skills or trying to take your skills to the next level. Being the awesome athlete that you are, I know you’re hard on yourself. You expect a lot out of yourself and put lots of pressure you put on yourself to get it right immediately. You may also know that is a double-edged sword … it pushes you to be better AND it’s how you get in your own way.

Training, unlike games, allows you to take breaks, breathe, think it through and get another rep. Acknowledging that practice is the perfect time to make mistakes and work through them will help you keep a level head. Skill development happens through repetition and new skills will get mixed results. Staying cool, calm and collected will help you get there faster. ›› 3. Breathe with purpose — This is the simplest, yet most effective tool you have to help you get through the grind, keep things simple and keep emotions in check. Breathing slow and deep temporarily takes your focus off what’s challenging you and allows your stress to drop so performance can improve. You can do this before, during or after training. … Whenever you need to take the edge off, breathing with purpose will help.

Play hard and have fun! ✪

get mental: erika westhoff

Erika Westhoff is a CEO and certified mental trainer at EW Performance in Pleasanton.

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growingPAINS Ways To Treat Knee Pain After Growth Spurts health watch: david arakawa We have many young athletes come into our clinics complaining of site-specific knee pain. A fair amount of them point to a prominent bump below the kneecap on a bony structure called the tibial tubercle.

This condition is commonly known as Osgood-Schlatter Disease. This is not a true disease, but a traction injury to the growth zone of where the front thigh muscles attach to the bone in front of the knee (at the tibial tubercle).

The athlete’s knee pain may be due to overuse/chronic microtrauma, direct trauma to the tibial tubercle, poor biomechanics or muscle imbalances. Usually occurring in young males between ages 12-14, the athlete frequently reports a recent growth spurt and/or an increase in intensity of play. He or she may be very limited in activity and sports secondary to the persistent knee pain.

Fortunately, there is an arsenal of treatments for addressing the athlete’s symptoms. Following the below phases can assist in maximizing the young athlete’s sport participation to ensure a safe and effective return to sport: PHASE I — Restriction and/or modification of jumping and other activities below the level of pain, ice massage, patellar tendon strap for decreasing loads on the patellar tendon, flexibility exercises for the hamstrings, quadriceps and Iliopsoas muscles, muscle balance/strengthening exercises for the back and front of knee.

PHASE II — Backside muscle strengthening exercises emphasizing the gluteal muscles (e.g. bridge progressions, clamshell progressions, plank and hands/ knees progressions).

PHASE III — Systematic and progressive squatting exercises, analysis of the athlete’s running and jumping technique followed by appropriate corrective exercises/ drills.

PHASE IV — Education and focused work on a proper dynamic warm-up and a return-to-run program, functional tests including dynamic balance, hopping and agility with increasing speeds.

To summarize, Osgood-Schlatter Disease is just one more common condition we see in the young athlete.

However, it does not need to equate to shutting it down for the season. Follow the above mentioned phases of treatment and you can effectively manage that “No Good” knee pain. ✪ David Arakawa is a physical therapist for UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in Oakland and works for its Sports Medicine For Young Athletes unit.

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response ROUTINE training time: tim rudd

The most ignored truth in the strength and conditioning industry is that you don’t get better by training. You get better by recovering FROM training.

Training is a stressor. It breaks the body down, and the body responds by first becoming weaker (or worse) and then adapting and “super-compensating” over time.

Obviously, you can’t train seven or even 14 hard sessions a week and expect to improve if you’re not giving your body the time and resources it needs to create that adaptation. The harder and longer the training session, the deeper and longer that recovery curve is.

So part of our goal as coaches is to move our athletes’/clients’ super-compensation curves up (better response) and to the left (faster recovery time,) which equals better outcomes in speed, strength, power and bodycomposition.

Here are a few methods we implement at Fit-2-The-Core to help with that. ›› 1. Smart, structured, progressive training programs Working harder or longer often means that the recovery period takes longer. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t train hard, but doing more than necessary to get the training response slows down your results. Randomly adding an extra set or extra exercise to your program without considering its impact on the next workout/next week/next month is the usual culprit and the reason why we have an excellent understanding of program design; it’s vital to your success. ›› 2. Basics Adequate rest, hydration, protein intake, overall energy intake and sleep. These are still extremely important especially for improving performance — you need to have an understanding of fueling the body, not depriving it. ›› 3. Supplementation Always controversial, but the best description I’ve heard for supplements is “nutrients without calories,” for example, vitamins. Yes, things like protein powder and omega-3s have calories, but I like to think of them as “food” more than as supplements. ›› 4. Attention to soft tissue I think Epsom salts baths, foam rolling, massage, dedicated flexibility/mobility sessions, cryotherapy and compression recovery are extremely useful tools that tend to get ignored. ›› 5. Low intensity activity While we can agree that adequate rest is important, and at least one full day off per week from training makes sense, there comes a time when total inactivity “rest” isn’t fast enough.

Imagine doing a hard-lower body squat and deadlift session on a Friday evening, then spending all day Saturday just lying down. Trying to get up to move on Sunday will be pretty rough. It sounds almost counter-intuitive, but an additional training session (if programmed appropriately) can speed up recovery.

Low-level aerobic work in heart rate zones of 130-150, additional foam rolling work, mobility work and even sled pushing (no eccentric, less stress) can be useful here.

Remember, you do not get better by training. You get better by recovering FROM training. More training is only better if you can recover from more training in the same time frame. ✪ Tim Rudd is an IYCA specialist in youth conditioning and owner of Fit2TheCore.

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