Issue 9, 10.14.2010

Kickin’ it in Antioch Page 12

vol. 1. issue 9

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Solving the ncs realignment puzzle page 6

Concord wideouts break onto scene page 22 golf hot products showcase page 32

October 14, 2010

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Salesian’s Travis Earby runs for daylight.

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Lightning has struck twice in Antioch. page 12

Being a serious high school football fan takes time. page 16

First Pitch......................................... 6 SportStar of the Week.................. 7 Locker Room.................................. 8 Wally’s World................................10 Red Zone.......................................22 Health Watch................................25 Training Time.................................26 Tee2Green.....................................28 Game Day......................................35 Twenty-Four7................................36 4

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ON THE COVER Salesian’s Travis Earby.

Photo by Bob Larson, LarsonPic@aol.com

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Solving the Rubix Cube that is NCS league realignment

F

our years ago around this time I was to be honest, there’s not much to fix here. venturing to all parts of the Bay Area Castro Valley is the only new school to attend meetings — all of which in the conference for this cycle, coming featured very passionate arguments, mostly over from the Bay Shore Conference. over geography.

The Trojans naturally fall into the EBAL, Certainly makes me sound like someboth geographically and competitively. body who likes to party, huh?

However, that makes for a nine-school My travels included Danville, San Raconference — pretty cumbersome when mon, Walnut Creek. Even San Rafael. it comes to scheduling.

It was all part of covering the process Meanwhile, the BVAL is a six-team of league realignment within the North league in which coaches from more than Coast Section — a procedure that arises one school have expressed the desire to every four years to allow school officials the add at least one more school to help with chance to crunch the numbers of transporcompetition and scheduling. My suggestation costs and average margins of victory tion — which is not a new or ground(or defeat). breaking one, in fact one EBAL school Covering the realignment cycle from suggested it for this cycle — would be to beginning to end is a fascinating process. move Livermore from the EBAL (where And, as a reporter who watches high it sometimes struggles competitively) school sporting events for a living, it is also to the BVAL (where it would have to extremely frustrating. As a sportswriter, our endure six trips along Vasco Rd. during preference is to see and report on tightlythe league season). contested games between evenly-matched The EBAL stays an eight-team league, teams. The more exciting last-minute, nailand the BVAL gets a seventh team. The biting finishes, the better. rest of the leagues remain as they are.

So, why can’t the schools re-work the Now, hold your hat for my next act. leagues to create the best competitive equity on a nightly basis? Well, they can. But only if said schools fit within the same geoThe leagues which exist here are the graphic proximity. And that’s always where Alameda Contra Costa Athletic League, realignment gets sticky, because schools Bay Shore Athletic League, Hayward understandably can’t afford the transportaArea Athletic League and Mission Valley tion costs of caravanning to all points of the Athletic League.

Bay Area for every league game.

The varying motives of all these And yet, the process allows for quite a schools is too difficult to get into, but the bit of innovative out-of-the-box thinking. bottom line is realignment has been a All of which rarely makes it out of the early pain for this conference for some time. stages of meetings.

My suggestion, which I believe to fit The North Coast Section covers a masChace@ within the confines of the two points sive geographical area (spanning from the SportStarsMag.com of criteria, is pull out eight of the most Bay Area to the Oregon border), and its competitive schools throughout the schools break down into different confer(925) 566-8503 conference and create a new league split ences. The two conferences that comprise into two four-team divisions.

East Bay schools are the Bay Shore ConferThe North division would include Berkeley, Bishop ence and Valley Conference.

O’Dowd, El Cerrito and Pinole Valley, and the South diviBy the time the next issue of SportStars hits the streets sion would have Hayward, James Logan, Newark MemoOct. 28, both the Bay Shore and Valley Conferences will rial and San Leandro.

To help with transportation, league have meetings to choose their favorite alignment proposal play would only involve playing teams from the opposite and forward it on to the North Coast Section for the next division once. step in the process. The various proposal offerings from Albany and Encinal would move to the ACCAL, createach conference can actually be viewed on the NCS web ing a six-team league with Alameda, De Anza, Hercules site (cifncs.org). and Richmond. The BSAL would become an eight-team The last time I covered this cycle, I was writing for a league with John Swett, Kennedy-Richmond, Moreau newspaper and had to solely report the facts. This time Catholic, Piedmont, Salesian, St. Joseph Notre Dame, St. around, it seems I can offer up some opinion.

Mary’s and St. Patrick/St. Vincent.

Thus, here’s my unbiased, completely-reasonable, Finally, the remaining HAAL and MVAL schools would it-makes-too-much-sense-to-ever-really-be-considered merge to a not-optimum-but-manageable nine-team suggestions as to how the two conferences could align. league (American, Arroyo, Irvington, Kennedy-Fremont, Mission San Jose, Mt. Eden, San Lorenzo, Tennyson and Washington).

This conference currently comprises the Bay Valley It works. Trust me.

Athletic League, Diablo Foothill Athletic League, Diablo So of course, I expect several emails telling me why it Valley Athletic League and East Bay Athletic League. And doesn’t. Let the shouting begin — realignment is back!

Bay Shore Conference

FIRST PITCH Chace Bryson Editor

Valley Conference

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PHONE 925.566.8500 FAX 925.566.8507 Editorial Editor@SportStarsMag.com Editor Chace Bryson. Ext. 104 • Chace@SportStarsMag.com Contributors Bill Kolb, Erik Stordahl, Mike Wolcott, Dave DeLong, Mitch Stephens Photography Butch Noble, Bob Larson Creative Department Art@SportStarsMag.com Production Manager Mike DeCicco. Ext. 103 • MikeD@SportStarsMag.com Publisher/President Mike Calamusa. Ext. 106 • Mike@SportStarsMag.com Advertising & Calendar/Classified Sales Sales@SportStarsMag.com Account Executives Mike Wolcott Ext. 109 • MikeW@SportStarsMag.com; Patrick McCormick Ext. 102 • Patrick@SportStarsMag.com; Erik Stordahl • EStordahl@Sport StarsMag.com (Special Sections, Calendar, Marketplace sales) Reader Resources/Administration Ad Traffic, Subscription, Calendar & Classified Listings info@SportStarsMag.com • Deb Hollinger. Ext. 101 • Distribution/Delivery Mags@SportStarsMag.com Distribution Manager Butch Noble. Ext. 107 • Butch@SportStarsMag.com Information technology John Bonilla CFO Sharon Calamusa • Sharon@SportStarsMag.com Office Manager/Credit Services Deb Hollinger. Ext. 101 • Deb@SportStarsMag.com Board of Directors Dennis Erokan, CEO, Placemaking Group Roland Roos, CPA, Roland Roos & Co Susan Bonilla, Contra Costa County Supervisor Drew Lawler, Managing Director, AJ Lawler Partners community SportStars™ Magazine A division of Caliente! Communications, LLC 5356 Clayton Rd., Ste. 222 • Concord, CA • 94521 info@SportStarsMag.com www.SportStarsMag.com

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of the week

kruger story jr.

powered by:

heritage . football . senior

nominate your star at editor@sportstarsmag.com

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The Heritage football team has never been on top of the mountain of the Bay Valley Athletic League. But so far the Patriots are 4-1 – their best start since they began playing varsity in 2007.

Leading the charge is senior, Kruger Story Jr. He’s the front man of a formidable ground attack and, as a defender, a punisher of quarterbacks and wide receivers. With a season-ending injury to fellow RB/LB, Tyler McDonald, Story has to pick up the slack. He did his best against Concord on Oct. 1, dashing for 204 yards on 26 carries while racking up four touchdowns in a 38-34 losing effort. But one loss doesn’t come close to damaging his or the team’s spirit.

SportStars: What was the key to all those yards against Concord?

Kruger Story Jr: I have to give credit to my offensive line. They’re the ones creating the holes for me.

SportStars: How does your team cope with the loss of Tyler McDonald?

KS: He’s a huge asset. He wants it just as much as all of us, so we’re playing the rest of the season for him.

SportStars: Why do you like playing on both sides of the ball?

KS: Ever since Pop Warner, I’ve been playing both ways. I like hitting people and I like scoring touchdowns.

SportStars: What’s it going to take for your team to claim its first BVAL title?

KS: We’ve got a good chance at winning so we just have to keep doing what we’ve been doing. It’s going to come down to us, Pittsburg or Deer Valley.

Kruger’s Quick Hits Random fact about yourself: I’m fluent in Spanish 49ers or Raiders: Raiders Favorite football movie: Remember the Titans — Erik Stordahl

honorable mention

carson ewanich The Amador Valley senior scored four touchdowns in a blowout 34-7 East Bay Athletic League win over Livermore on October 1. Two came on offense, one on a 100-yard interception return and another from an 80yard kickoff return.

alicia flatt Carondelet’s senior setter collected 27 assists in a three-game upset over the EBAL-leading Foothill volleyball team on Oct. 5. Foothill entered the match with a record of 16-2 and an unblemished 4-0 mark in league.

kimi klein She paced the Campolindo girls water polo team with two goals in a key Diablo Foothill Athletic League win over Acalanes on Oct. 6. She followed that effort up with four goals in a 9-7 nonleague win over Carondelet on Oct. 8.

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RANDOM ACTS OF FACTNESS

p th

Sarah Vaccaro

Mary Vaccaro

On Sept. 30, sisters Mary and Sarah Vaccaro each represented a side in the rivalry match between the Campolindo and Miramonte volleyball teams. It wasn’t the first time the two girls had squared off on different volleyball teams, but it was the first time in a high school setting. The big sister (Mary) came out on top, leading Campolindo to a four-game win with a match-high 22 kills.

Sarah held her own, however, notching 36 assists and 12 digs. The rematch will come Oct. 26 at Campolindo, and it could determine the Diablo Foothil Athletic League championship.

PREGAME PLAYLIST

hi in pu pric 2 occ a lin run gas sid line line his

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From time to time we’ll pick an athlete and poll them on the songs which best pump them up prior to game time. Our first offering belongs to Megan Dietrich of the Acalanes girls water polo team.

MEGAN DIETRICH SOPHOMORE • ATTACKER

■ 1. Out Of Your Mind — Lil’ John, feat. LMFAO ■ 2. Grillz — Nelly, feat. Paul Wall ■ 3. Lookin’ For a Nut — Starting Six

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Sup

om

HE SAID WHAT?!?

The Sideline Experience Most high-school football writers spend their Friday nights pacing up and down the sidelines frantically keeping stats and play-by-play in order to piece together a hasty story on deadline as soon as the game ends. There’s something special about covering a game from the sideline — an experience unlike anything most fans or press-box-bound journalists ever get to have. Here are the top five reasons patrolling the sidelines is the best seat in the house, Five Senses Style: 1. See: Fans can see a receiver getting his head around, anticipating a ball lofted in his direction. What they can’t see are his pupils dilating, then focusing down to pinpricks as he watches the ball into his hands.

2. Hear: From the stands, you get the occasional sound of crunching impact when a linebacker slobberknocks an unsuspecting running back, but you miss the hooting and gasping of his awe-struck teammates on the sidelines. Or maybe you’re on the other sideline, where the coach opens a tirade on the lineman who missed the block that allowed his running back to be slobberknocked.

3. Smell: A few years ago we would have gone with the more mundane ‘freshcut grass’ line here, but with the proliferation Cal High coach Eric Billeci of turf fields, it just isn’t viable anymore. So. Hurm. How to say this delicately? Let’s just say personal hygiene isn’t the tippy-top priority for some of those lads.

One word, boys: Deodorant.

4. Touch: For the record, sportswriters loathe broken plays.

Especially the ones where the quarterback scrambles toward the sideline and half the defense follows him out of bounds — all of them heading directly at the aforemention sports writer. Ever take 300 pounds of pad-clad high school football players in the chest? ‘Ooof’ doesn’t quite cover it.

5. Taste: Right. We just got clobbered by the defensive backfield. We’re picking the black rubber bits out of our teeth. But something tastes like copper. Is that blood in our mouth?

— Bill Kolb

“They’re like that 5-foot-4 guy who doesn’t realize he’s 5-4. They don’t know that they’re not supposed to beat teams. They don’t know which teams they’re supposed to respect or which teams they’re not supposed to have a chance against. These guys are just born fighters.”

Concord High football coach Brian Hamilton on what he learned about the Minutemen as they went 4-1 over their first five games.

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I

My ultimate autograph story, and the fine that came later

f you’ve been to more than a few Slowly, laboriously, very deliberately. professional sporting events, chances Every table in the room emptied. I are you have a favorite story about an remember seeing Warren Spahn and Stan Musial seated a few feet apart, looking at autograph. each other and shrugging as everyone in It might be the first one you got (Fred the room lined up for Ali. “Chicken” Stanley, New York Yankees, It took nearly an hour to get to him.

1973). Or, it might be the first time you Once there, the rule was, you were to hand tried, but got ignored by the player (Mel your item to a man sitting next to Ali, who Stottlemyre, 1972). would pass it along for the autograph. For Obviously, I remember both of those, most people, it was a fairly non-personal with varying degrees of fondness. But my experience. most memorable will always be the final Until Ali saw my traffic ticket. autograph I got, because it’ll be the last I thought it made perfect sense to ask one I ever ask for.

Ali to sign my ticket -- if nothing else, I I mean, where do you go from Muhamfigured it would break up the monotony of mad Ali — especially if you were just his day. about the only guy he spoke with the I was right. entire day?

“Hey, champ,” his associate said, while In one of the more memorable 30 handing over my ticket. “This guy was in seconds of my life, Ali not only signed such a hurry to see you, he got a ticket.” for me (on my speeding ticket, nonetheFor just about the first time since I had less), he gave me some sage advice and a gotten in line, Ali looked up. And, for the handshake with a grip so firm, I can still very first time, he spoke. feel it in my knuckles.

“How fast was you goin’?” he asked, in a It all happened for one reason — I was raspy voice barely above a whisper. late getting someplace I needed to be.

“Uh ...’’ I stammered, searching for a reThe year was 1989. A friend and I left sponse that might actually hold the man’s Humboldt County on a mission — we attention. were going to get to San Jose in time for “Sixty?” he asked, his voice growing an autograph show featuring Ali and louder, and with a quizzical look on his about a dozen Hall of Fame-caliber baseface. ball players.

“Uh, a little faster than that, champ,” I Along the way, we stopped and ate, and said, almost apologetically.

I read a newspaper column by a man who Ali signed my ticket, handed it over had attended another autograph show in and spoke a sentence that has continued the area featuring Ali — and, it wasn’t a to haunt me to this day: “Boy, you’d better kind review. slow down.”

It described Ali as a man who showed Muhammad Ali told me to slow down.

MikeW@ no emotion, was unable to crack a smile How cool is that?

SportStarsMag.com and obviously didn’t enjoy what he was He was smiling. The column I’d read in doing — that is, if he even knew what he the paper that morning said he couldn’t (925) 566-8500 was doing. (Parkinson’s disease had alsmile anymore. So, naturally, I took that as Ext. 109 a sign I could overstay my welcome. ready ravaged his mind and body by this “Champ,” I asked, “Can I shake the hand point, even though he had fought as that shook the world?” recently as 1981.)

His smile got bigger. In a second, I The column spoiled my mood, was shaking the big, firm, still-powerful ruined my breakfast and, even worse, right hand that had knocked Joe Frazier’s made us lose track of time. So we tried mouthpiece into the third row in the making up time (never a good idea, “Thrilla in Manila” in 1975. kids); 20 minutes later, I got a speeding I walked away with a big smile, an ticket. autographed traffic ticket and the We got to the show an hour late, afraid knowledge that I’d just spoken with the we’d missed Ali. Somehow, the news most famous person I would ever meet that Ali was even more late than we were on this earth. didn’t cheer us up.

To this day, I haven’t asked anyone There were rumors flying all over the else for another autograph. But, to be hall, fueled in part by the column people fair, it’s been a long time since I ran into Fred had read in their paper that morning. Did “Chicken” Stanley. ✪ he forget he was supposed to come? Was he too ill to atDo you have a favorite autograph story? Share it with tend? Maybe he forgot to take his medicine?

Then, the roar went up. Ali was in the room. He walked Wally by emailing MikeW@SportStarsMag.com. He slowly across the hall, sat at a table and began signing. might print it out, sign it, and mail it back to you.

WALLY’S WORLD

Mike Wolcott

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Kicking the odds Antioch school is home to two nationally-ranked taekwondo fighters By erik stordahl | SportStars Winning the lottery. Getting struck by lightning. Finding a diamond in the rough. Experiencing one of these phenomenons is rare and instantly etched into one’s mind forever. Now double the experience.

This is the only formula that comes close to explaining how Master Edward Givans feels. Two of his students are good. Very good. Olympic medal-worthy good.

Cheyenne Lewis and Tatiana Francischetti are forces to be reckoned with and they both practice at Givans’ Taekwondo Academy in Antioch. What are the odds?

“We’re the only academy to have two girls on the U.S. Junior National team,” explains Master Givans.

So, a million to one?

Lewis and Francischetti sharpen each other’s iron by sparring, which leads to each racking up accolade after accolade at multiple tournaments both local and abroad.

In fact, on the first weekend of the month, both girls traveled to Long Beach for the Jimmy Kim Invitational.

Neither wasted their trip.

“We both got first place (in our respective weight classes),” exclaims Francischetti, a junior at Heritage High who competes in the light heavyweight division.

Winning a tournament such as the JKI is impressive for some taekwondo athletes, yet commonplace for Lewis and Francischetti who both possess higher aspirations.

“Cheyenne is number one in her weight division and is on pace to compete in the 2016 Olympics” Givans said.

“Tatiana is a newcomer and took bronze at the US Open last year.”

Not too shabby, especially for Francischetti. Training in Olympic taekwondo the past five years, she earned her black belt in 2009. After a shaky first tournament, Francischetti trained hard every day for three hours and ended up cracking the U.S. Junior National team.

“You train so hard and it feels good when you finally have success,” says Francischetti. “You know that the work you put in has helped you succeed.”

Francischetti has dabbled in other martial arts like judo and jiu-jitsu. So why taekwondo?

“I like taekwondo because you learn disciplines,” says Francischetti. “It’s helped me become the person I am today.”

Those disciplines transform into a work ethic that goes a long way in the classroom. Just ask Lewis’ father.

“Cheyenne is a straight ‘A’ student,” beams Jason. “She’s never gotten a ‘B’ in her life.”

And that’s a good thing since Lewis, a freshman at 12

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October 14, 2010

Bob Larson

Cheyenne Lewis, a 14-year-old Stockton native, was a gold medalist at the U.S. Junior World Championships held in Tijuana, Mexico, last March.

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Bob Larson

Heritage High’s Tatiana Francischetti earned her black belt in 2009 and competes as a light heavyweight.

Franklin High in Elk Grove, has a goal of attending Stanford. But that’s only the beginning when it comes to her aspirations.

She has her sights set on competing in the Olympics.

That goal may be a long shot, but Lewis has been labeled a long shot since she started taekwondo. And it’s been her mission to prove such a distinction false.

“When she started, the coaches told (my wife and I) that Cheyenne wouldn’t be good at taekwondo,” says Jason Lewis. “They suggested she should be on the sparring team and just let the other girls hit her.”

Clearly, these naysayers fueled Lewis’ fire. She trained round the clock and garnered victories almost instantly.

Out of about 150 fights, Lewis has lost only six.

Lewis has also already racked up eight knockouts.

That may not seem like a large amount, but consider that roughly 90 percent of taekwondo athletes go their entire careers without notching a knockout.

“We always talk about getting a KO,” explains a humble Lewis. “That’s the goal.”

So what makes her so special?

“She’s a freak of nature,” her dad puts bluntly. “She’s 5’9’’ and 108 pounds.”

That lanky frame gives her a massive advantage over opponents who are typically a half foot shorter than Lewis.

Lewis took that advantage with her last March when she dominated at the U.S. Junior World Championship in Tijuana, Mexico. After breezing her way to the finals with wins of 17-1, 14-0 and 16-5, Lewis narrowly defeated Korea’s Choi Mi Hui 13-12 to capture the gold medal in the Girls 14-17 flyweight weight class.

“She’s one of two girls ever from the U.S. to win the Junior worlds,” exclaims Givans.

If there’s anything that people have learned about Lewis by now, it’s that this accomplishment shouldn’t come as a surprise. It certainly was no surprise to Francischetti.

“We’ve been training together since the summer,” remarks Francischetti. “We push through with each other.”

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Bob Larson

Cheyenne Lewis and Tatiana Francischetti are frequent training partners at Givans Taekwondo Academy. Both credit each other for elevating each other’s skills.

Lewis echoes Francischetti’s sentiments: “(Tatiana) is my training partner and at the end of the day, that’s what makes us closer.”

Two standout fighters who win medal after medal, spar with each other all the time and still remain good friends. What are the

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odds?

Odds are this won’t be the last time the two girls are asked to talk about each other.

Odds are they could be in the national spotlight for awhile.

Play the odds. ✪

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kids @ play One writer’s two-day mission to see as much high school football as possible — and what he learned

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TOP RIGHT: De La Salle’s Antoine Pickett races up the sideline on an 89-yard kickoff return.

TOP LEFT: Northgate’s Cameron Stover (9) outruns eight different Las Lomas defenders.

BOTTOM: College Park’s Taylor Valdez (2) turns the corner on a QB option run.

Photos by Bob Larson and Butch Noble (bottom)

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I

By jim mannion | Contributor

’ll admit it, I have a football problem. The leaves change from green to brown, the dog days of summer come to an end, and my thoughts turn to Friday night football games.

Halftime speeches, bands, snack bars, two-minute drills, rivalry games, Blue-chip recruits, 140-pound defensive linemen – there are so many stories to tell.

But what truly motivates the players? What makes them work so hard, spend so much time and energy on the game?

What if I could get out to as many games as possible on a football weekend, and see what unfolds? Could I put my finger on the the pulse of high school football?

My plan was simple: Hit four high school football games in a row around the East Bay – start with Deer Valley at College Park on Friday afternoon, then to the cross-town Walnut Creek rivaly game of Northgate at Las Lomas later that night. Get up and do it again on Saturday with St. Mary’s playing at rival Salesian in the afternoon before the nationally-televised finale of Bishop Gorman-Las Vegas at De La Salle.

Deer Valley at College Park: —The game within the game The final school bell rang around 2:30 p.m. as P.E. stu-

dents hustled off the blacktop towards the locker room.

The PA system crackled with last-minute reminders on the upcoming week’s homecoming festivities, and kids stormed out of classroom doors and into hallways on campus, excited about the weekend.

Across the College Park campus, fans filtered into the football bleachers hauling umbrellas to shade themselves from the sweltering heat.

On the field, however, there was a different vibe. Intense game-faces were in full display, as players from Deer Valley and College Park stretched out, and went through their pre-game ritual in anticipation of the early start time.

Many times, there are so many things going on in a high school football game that one can barely keep up. But for those who watch games on a weekly basis, the game can slow down and be viewed in a series of moments and performances.

The battle between the Wolverines and Vikings unfolded into a defensive quagmire — the best type of scenario to watch for the games within the game.

■ There was College Park quarterback Taylor Valdez.

He’d likely play running back if he attended many of the other high schools throughout the East Bay, but for the offense College Park runs, he’s a classic example of a hardworking option quarterback. He led the Vikings on a perfect 10-play, 80-yard, game-opening touchdown drive — on all running plays.

■ There was Deer Valley’s offensive line. Tavita Taito

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and Siosifa Malolo consistently fired off the ball, opening holes for the five different players to run the ball for the Wolverines. Deer Valley averaged more than six yards a carry in the game.

■ And then there was the one-on-one battle between Deer Valley running back Brian Thomas (5-foot-5, 165-pounds) and College Park defensive lineman Oshry Elor (6-foot-4, 345-pounds).

The crash of the pads was ferocious when the unlikely pair squared off.

“Number Seventy-seven (Elor) is a good player,” Thomas said of Oshry, after picking up 109 hard-earned yards.

“He came hard every play.”

Even after a nip-and-tuck 14-7 victory for a 4-0 start to the season, the feeling was more of relief on the Deer Valley sideline as the player’s pulled off their shoulder pads in the heat after the game.

“We have a ton of work to do to get better,” said Deer Valley’s leader and quarterback, Mike Behr. “We have to get our stuff together.”

Northgate at Las Lomas: Playing for family Cameron Stover was pumped. The Northgate standout, and workhorse of the Bronco’s ground attack had just raised the Battle of the Creek plaque victoriously in the air after a 21-14 victory over cross-town rival Las Lomas, the

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first time any Northgate player had been able to do that in eight long seasons.

The go-to guy all evening, the senior was able to soak in the moment as family and friends made their way onto the sidelines.

“It’s the biggest game of our year,” Stover said afterward. “The rest of my life wouldn’t be complete if I couldn’t beat Las Lomas at least once.”

Head coach Justin Lowell, wet from a Gatorade bath as the clock struck zero, realized the win was extra sweet for the senior class.

“This really means a lot (for the seniors),” Lowell said, after the third-year head coach had wrapped up his post-game speech.

“Since the time they entered Northgate, they have heard about how long it has been (since defeating Las Lomas).”

Stover had the raucous Northgate student section chanting at a fever pitch when he broke free on a 40-yard touchdown run to give the Broncos a 14-7 first-half lead.

And while Stover had the opportunity to bask in his personal accomplishments, he was quick to praise his offensive line for taking care of him.

“It’s a trust thing, we’re a family,” Stover said.

Standing yards from Stover was Ben Davidson, who Lowell called the sparkplug of their defense. The scrappy middle linebacker, with sweat still beading off his forehead, reflected on what it took to get to this point.

“We’re not used to these Friday Night Lights,” Davidson said, “but all of our hard work and dedication has paid off.”

The senior battled through a hip-pointer and sprained ankle to play in the rivalry.

“Moving through the pain is just another aspect of football,” he said.

St. Mary’s at Salesian : Honoring past, building memories Under a clear afternoon sky, six Salesian greats stood at the 50-yard line of SelwayMartin Field in Richmond.

It was halftime, and this proud group was being honored as inaugural members of Salesian’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

Stan ‘Touchdown’ Brown’s name was announced, and the 1967 graduate smiled and waved to the fans. Brown went on to play at Purdue and for the Cleveland Browns, but before these accomplishments, he was local legend. A High-School All-American in ’66, Brown held the high school’s singleseason rushing record for 40 years, until it was broken by current Detroit Lion Jahvid Best in 2006.

Patrick Selway, Bruce Hall, Tim Falkenstein, and Gene Vigil were all honored as well. Last came Dan Shaughnessy, the legendary Salesian coach who guided the 18

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Butch Noble

Deer Valley running back Lamontay Marshall (25) breaks into the secondary for a good-sized gain against College Park. Marshall scored what would be the game-winning touchdown on a 49-yard pass play.The Wolverines prevailed 14-7. school to nine league titles between 1968 and 1985.

Shaughnessey had earlier flipped the coin before kick-off in this match up – appropriately enough since the coach they call “Shag” had been a part of more of these rivalry games than anyone. The legendary coach spent 20 years at St. Mary’s after his time at Salesian.

Current St Mary’s coaches and former players of Shaughnessy’s exchanged handshakes and hugs as he walked off the field, with memories of their playing days flashing back in an instant.

While the legends were honored at halftime, the scoreboard showed a 56-6 Salesian advantage. Despite the lopsided score and Salesian’s recent run of dominance, the game remains one of the most heated rivalries in the East Bay. “I think this week is always special for our kids because they know the St. Mary’s

kids so well,” Salesian head coach Chad Nightingale said. “Our kids really want to win, but so do theirs.”

Although both schools have had great success on the basketball court, St. Mary’s head coach Keith Minor feels the rivalry is more intense on the gridiron.

“I think (the rivalry) is even deeper in football — we really don’t like each other,” Minor said. “A lot of these kids went to grammar school together, and hung out together, so this should be a nice, old neighborhood brawl.”

On this Saturday, Salesian used heavilyrecruited lineman Freddie Tagaloa as an offensive weapon, as running back Aaron Prier time and again went for a huge gains on the ground behind the 6’7”, 290-pound junior left tackle.

Tagaloa looms very large on the small campus of 550 students, and according to Nightingale, has already received schol-

arship offers from every Pac-10 and SEC school.

After his performance against St. Mary’s, it’s hard not to imagine the lineman standing at midfield during halftime of a future rivalry game, perhaps next to Best as the two are honored and the torch is passed once again.

Bishop Gorman at De La Salle: Heavyweights in primetime An unlikely sign hung from a fence on the visitor’s sideline at Owen Owens Field.

“The powerhouse is in your house,” the orange and blue sign read, in reference to De La Salle’s imposing opponent.

It was an impressive crowd that followed the defending Nevada state champion out of the desert for its 560-mile road game in Concord. And the confidence it brought

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with it is not one normally seen from a team squaring off against the Spartans.

The Gaels are coached by Tony Sanchez, a standout wide receiver at Granada in the 90’s, and former head coach at Cal High.

“It’s exciting to come home,” Sanchez said prior to the game. “The East Bay will always be my home.”

Sanchez was taking his third shot at coaching against De La Salle. Twice at Cal he came up short, including a 21-14 defeat in 2008 — his final year with the Grizzlies.

With that history built into the game, the winning traditions of both teams, the national rankings, the high-profile recruits, the perfect weather, a packed house and TV cameras broadcasting live on the CBS College Sports Network – one may have been hard-pressed to find a better high school football atmosphere anywhere on that particular night.

So, naturally, the game would begin by instantly living up to the hype.

De La Salle’s Antoine Pickett took the game opening kickoff, and following a ferocious block by Oregon Statebound Dylan Wynn, raced down the left sidelines for an 89-yard touchdown.

However, that would be the Spartans’ lone highlight of the first half as Shaquille Powell, an exciting sophomore running back for Bishop Gorman, stole the show. His efforts included a 17-yard scoring run in which he broke free from a pack of Spartan tacklers which provided the Gaels with a 14-7 halftime lead.

The second half, though, was classic De La Salle football, as their famous power running game took over behind senior running back Lucas Dunne.

Clinging to a seven-point lead late in the fourth quar-

ter, quarterback Bart Houston stared down the talented Bishop Gorman defense, and rose to the occasion. Facing a 3rd-and-7 from the 22-yard line, the even-keeled signal caller sprinted around the right end on a naked bootleg, past the imposing USC-commit Jalen Grimble, picking up 17 yards and a first down.

Two plays later, Houston found the end-zone, sealing a 28-14 victory.

“I’m not going to lie,” Houston said, “in the first half, I was kind of in awe (by Gorman’s size), but my coaches told me not to (think) that. I knew this was a big game, and we just needed to play our ball.”

But here’s what makes the De La Salle players a different breed of high school football players.

Rather than basking in the glow of a nationally-televised victory, the Spartans’ Boise State-bound linebacker Blake

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Renaud was already focused on the season ahead.

“I know we played some pretty tough teams last year.

We started off slow, but this year we’re still messing up in the beginning of the game,” Renaud said. “That needs to stop because we’re not going to win a state championship like that.”

Looking back After the teams shook hands, and De La Salle fans celebrated on the field, I stumbled off the campus, and drove down Treat Boulevard in a haze.

The car clock read 11:30 p.m. as I pulled into home, after covering four games in 33 hours, witnessing last-minute drives, defensive stands, cross-town rivalries, and nationally-recruited players going toe-to-toe.

Flipping through my notes and thoughts well into the

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Bob Larson

De La Salle defensive back Devin Williams gets position against Bishop Gorman receiver Ryan Smith to get a second-half interception that turned the tide to the Spartans’ favor. early hours of Sunday morning, I revisited the questions that I had going into the venture.

What motivates the players? And, could I really define the essence of high school football?

I came away with the thought that players go through all the hard work, and risk injury for different reasons. Some play for the pride of their school and their teammates, and see the team as a family. Others can also have college aspirations or the possibility of their team capturing a league,

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section, or even state championship banner. All play for the memories that they are creating, which they can look back on proudly for the rest of their lives.

But underneath it all — the summer workouts, the 40-yard dash times, tackling drills, the recruiting services and message boards, every player has one thing in common: They are not professionals — they are still just kids, playing a game that they love.

Looking for the pulse of high school football?

It starts right there. ✪

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4Games

8teams 31hours 76 864 miles driven

PASSING YARDS

1,645

Best special teams play: De La Salle’s Antoine Pickett’s 89-yard kick-off return on the first play of his team’s win over Bishop Gorman.

Best Offensive Play: Northgate running back Cameron Stover’s 40-yard touchdown run in the Broncos’ win over Las Lomas.

Best defensive play: Deer Valley LB Jeremy Jermon’s sack on the last play of the game, sealing his team’s win over College Park.

rushing YARDS

Best Environment: Bishop Gorman @ De La Salle Best road crowd: Northgate’s student section Best Half-time: Salesian’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony and Sister Mary’s attempted 12-yard field goal (in full pads).

One-on-one matchup: College Park DL Oshry Elor (6-4, 345) vs. Deer Valley RB Brian Thomas (5-5, 165) Classic fourth-quarter drive: De La Salle’s 13-play, 80-yard march, giving them a 21-14 lead with 6:17 to play in the game.

Best Pre-game eating establishment: Kinder’s Deli, Pleasant Hill Favorite snackbar meal: Pulled pork sandwich and coleslaw at Las Lomas Favorite sideline conversation: Former Salesian and St. Mary’s head coach Dan Shaughnessy, who performed the coin toss before kickoff.

Sideline Conversation, Honorable Mention: Father Ed Wagner, Bishop Gorman’s team chaplain No. of 100-yard rushers: 8 ( Taylor Valdez, Brian Thomas, Aaron Prier, Chance Moses, Cameron Stover, Marquis Waters, Shaquille Powell, Lucas Dunne) Early morning runs to work off prior day’s food: 2 (in Hidden Valley Park, home of the Ed Sias Invitational) SportStars Preseason All-Stars: 8 (Deer Valley’s Tavita Taito and Garrett Ransom, Las Lomas’ Marquis Waters and Mitch Frentescu, Northgate’s Cameron Stover, Salesian’s Freddie Tagaloa, and De La Salle’s Dylan Wynn and Blake Renaud) Future Star: Bishop Gorman’s sophomore running back, Shaquille Powell

Bob Larson

Heavily-recruited Salesian lineman, Freddie Tagaloa, left, locks up with Humberto Palafox of St. Mary’s during their teams’ rivalry game on Sept. 25.

Salesian won the game 56-12.

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RED ZONE

Bob Larson

Concord senior wide receiver Kelly Starnes tries to pull away from Heritage’s Charlie Renner on Oct. 1.Through the team’s first five games, Starnes leads the Minutemen with 47 catches for nearly 700 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Catching on quick

Concord WR’s making the most of opportunities

By Chace Bryson | Editor Friday afternoons were different for Kelly Starnes a year ago.

Maybe they weren’t all the way care-free, but there was likely a lot less to think about. That’s because Friday nights were quite a bit different for him a year ago, as well.

Starnes played wide receiver for Concord High a year ago, and he still saw quite a bit of time on the field in the up-tempo spread offense employed by the Minutemen. But surrounded by senior talent, he was often the fourth or fifth option in the offense.

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inside look: concord Not anymore.

“I wouldn’t even think about getting the ball last year because there were so many other talented receivers,” Starnes said after catching three touchdown passes in a 38-34 win over Heritage on Oct. 1.

In just five games, Starnes has more than doubled the amount of catches that he had all of last season.

Following the Heritage game, he had 47 catches for 698 yards and 11 touchdowns — a stark contrast to his 21-catch, 398-yard season in 2009.

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RED ZONE But that’s what happens when you become the No. 1 option in a high-octane offense led by a senior quarterback who has already committed to a Division-I college. That quarterback would be Southern Miss-commit Rickly Lloyd, who many thought might struggle after inheriting a near-brand new receiving corps in 2010.

Instead, he’s on pace to dwarf his own numbers from last season. And the receivers are among the first groups he credits.

“My receivers have been working their butt off,” Lloyd said. “They’ve been work-

ing really hard. I can’t thank my receivers enough.”

But Starnes is no dummy, either. He knows not to take a talented quarterback like Lloyd for granted. “He’s just throwing dimes,” Starnes said. “He’s putting the ball where anybody can catch it.”

While Starnes has been the biggest standout so far, Lloyd has completed passes to 10 different players this year — eight of which had caught at least one of his 22 touchdown passes through the first five games of the season.

In his first varsity season, junior Terrance Young has evolved into a big-play

Bob Larson

Kelly Starnes (4), at left, isn’t the only Minuteman receiver having a breakout year.

Terrance Young (9), pictured hauling in a pass against Heritage cornerback Davon Morgan, has also put up some impressive numbers in his first varsity season.Young is averaging more than 16 yards per catch. receiver. With 32 catches for more than 500 yards, he’s averaged more than 16 yards per catch in five games.

“Man, it’s great,” Young said. “Just how (Ricky) is playing right now is amazing. I just want to keep making him look good.”

The fact that this new group of receivers has fared so well seems to come as little surprise to Minutemen coach Brian Hamilton. For him, it simply boils down to his quarterback.

“When we graduated all those receivers, everyone thought well ‘How good is Ricky?,’” the Concord coach said.

“Bottom line is that he just makes us all better. He makes the offensive line better by getting the ball out so quick. He makes the receivers better by throwing

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them into grabs. He just really elevates the play of everybody around him.”

In addition to Lloyd’s 22 TD passes, he’s also rushed for three scores and thrown for at least 15 two-point conversions. The Minutemen averaged 49 points through their nonleague schedule, and didn’t score fewer than 36 points. Concord now sets it sights on winning an outright Diablo Valley Athletic League title and getting the playoff victory that has eluded it each of the past two seasons.

Meanwhile, Starnes spends his Friday afternoons gearing up for an active night of catching footballs.

“I’m definitely having fun right now,” he said. ✪

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RED ZONE Gearing up for the homestretch TOP: Freedom’s D’Amora Cooper rushes for some of his 154 yards against College Park on Oct. 1. Freedom hosts Antioch as the Bay Valley Athletic League gets under way on Oct. 15. Pittsburg faces a must-win at Deer Valley on the same night in the two teams’ BVALopener. BOTTOM: Foothill QB David Camarena lead the Falcons to a big win over Granada on Oct. 8 (a game you can still watch on Comcast’s On Demand).

Foothill looks to continue its success when it hosts San Ramon Valley on Oct. 15 before going to upstart Livermore on Oct. 22.

coaches poll The SportStars Top 10 coaches poll is votBob Larson

ed on by coaches throughout the East Bay. Coaches vote for their top 10 teams, with 10 points for a first-place vote, nine for second, etc. Only Division I-III schools are considered.

Records are through Oct. 9.

Team (first-place votes) Record Points

1. De La Salle (10)......................5-0..........100 2. California..................................5-0............90 3. Foothill.....................................4-1............69 4. Concord...................................4-1............64 5. Granada...................................4-1............42 6. Heritage...................................4-1............40 7. Deer Valley..............................4-1............32 8. McClymonds............................5-0............31 9. Miramonte................................6-0............27 10. San Ramon Valley................3-2............18 On the bubble: Monte Vista (3-2) 16 pts, Encinal (4-1) 12, Northgate (5-0) 7.

Butch Noble

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Come out of the cold: Understanding hypothermia and frostbite

A

lthough excessive and prolonged exposure to cold may be an infrequent problem in high school athletics, the prevention, recognition and management of cold-related conditions are still an important consideration for coaches and administrators.

And with colder temperatures on the horizon, it wouldn’t hurt to take a look at these things.

The human body’s mechanisms of heat retention are significantly less efficient than our ability to dissipate heat. During the day, the temperature may be moderate and the sun shining, but as the sun sets and the temperature begins to fall — when coupled with conditions of exhaustion, dehydration, and wet clothing associated with physical activity — the risk of cold-related conditions can increase.

There are two cold-related pathologies of which coaches, administrators, and athletes should be aware: Hypothermia and Frostbite.

Hypothermia is defined as a decrease in the core body temperature to at least 95 degrees.

It occurs when the heat loss is greater than the metabolic heat production. Hypothermia can be categorized in three stages: mild, moderate, and severe.

Frostbite is a thermal injury to the skin, which can result from prolonged exposure to moderate cold or brief exposure to extreme cold. The body areas most prone to frostbite are the hands, feet, nose, ears, and cheeks.

Frostbite can be classified into three categories: frostnip, superficial frostbite, and deep frostbite.

Factors leading to these conditions include exposed skin, low air temperature, wind chill, moisture, lack of insulation and dehydration.

Here are the symptoms for the varying degrees of hypothermia and frostbite.

Hypothermia

Health Watch

Mild: Shivering, cold sensation, goose bumps, numb hands, unable to perform complex tasks with hands.

Moderate: Labored movements, mild confusion, difficulty speaking, signs of depression, withdrawn, stumbling pace.

Severe: Shivering stops, exposed skin is bluish and puffy, inability to walk, poor muscle coordination, muscle rigidity, decrease in pulse and respiration rate, unconsciousness, cardiac and respiratory failure.

Bruce Valentine

Frostbite Frostnip: Skin appears white and waxy or gray and mottled; possible numbness and pain.

Superficial: Skin appears white, mottled or gray-, feels hard or rubbery but deeper tissue is soft, insensitive to touch.

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Deep: Skin is white and has a wooden feel, numbness, and possible anesthesia. It can include the muscle and bone.

When it comes to treating the two conditions, follow these steps: Hypothermia: Remove athlete from cold environment.

Seek dry shelter. Remove wet clothing and replace with dry clothing and/or blankets. Refer all moderate cases to the emergency room once safe to transport. Treat severe hypothermia as a medical emergency! Wrap the athlete in an insulated blanket and seek emergency medical care immediately Frostbite: Do not rub the area. Gently rewarm the area by blowing warm air onto the area, placing the area against a warm body part, or placing the affected area into warm (101-108 degrees) water for several minutes.

The best method of management is prevention. Dress in layers, cover the head to prevent excessive heat loss from the head and neck.

Stay dry by wearing a wicking fabric next to the body and a breathable water-repellent outer layer, and stay adequately hydrated.

Bruce Valentine is a physical therapist assistant for the Sports Medicine For Young Athletes center in Walnut Creek, a division of Children’s Hospital Oakland. If you have questions or comments regarding the “Health Watch” column, write the Sports Medicine For Young Athletes staff at Health@SportStarsMag.com.

October 14, 2010

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tee2green

The First Tee’s code of conduct starts with R-E-S-P-E-C-T In the PAR Level of The First Tee, Participants learn that golf has a set of rules and prescribed behaviors.

Unlike many sports, golfers are expected to be polite and show respect to others.

Participants learn that The First Tee

notes from the pros has its own Code of Conduct for interacting with others.

The First Tee Code of Conduct is based on respect.

The First Tee Code of Conduct begins with respect for myself: ■ I will dress neatly in a clean (tucked in) shirt.

I will wear golf shoes or athletic shoes.

■ I will try my best and keep a positive attitude when I practice or play.

■ I will eat right, get enough sleep, and take care of myself so I can stay healthy.

Respect for others: ■ I will be friendly, courteous and helpful.

■ I will follow instructions and safety rules.

■ I will have fun without being loud

Angela Paradise

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and rowdy.

■ I will be honest and be a good sport, whether I win or lose.

Respect for my surroundings:

■ I will keep the golf course and practice areas clean and in as good or better shape than I found them

■ I will clean and take care of my golf clubs

■ I will be careful not to damage anything that belongs to others.

Even adults at times need a quick reminder of the simple acts of Respect so that the game is enjoyable to all that are involved.

Some examples of the respect that are given in The First Tee are:

■ Being ready to hit when it’s your turn

■ Being quiet while someone is about to hit

■ Fixing a ball mark or repairing divots ■ Raking bunkers

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tee2green ■ Standing in the proper place when someone is about to hit

By practicing these rules of respect our participants become welcome additions out on the golf course.

Practicing with the putter Practice makes perfect, we often hear. Building muscle memory or developing our hand eye coordination is also helpful.

Breaking your practice down into three areas, long game, short game and putting is a good start.

Starting with putting, there are three keys to putting well: Speed, line and reading greens.

First, controlling your pace or distance is vital. Most three-putts happen because the golfer does not roll the ball close on the first attempt.

Next, you want to roll the ball on the intended line.

And if you don’t know where that should be, you will need to read the green well to understand where the line is. Many times this is the area that needs work.

I use simple props to help see what is happening here.

A club shaft or a line will do.

College Park grad makes the grade

If the line is established and the player is not aiming correctly, I will have them focus on correcting that part before having them putt 3- or 4-footers until confidence is established.

In a good sound stroke I like to see a pendulum action with no hand manipulation.

Dave De Long

I also like to see a very quiet body with the shoulders controlling the stroke. Next, the eyes should be over the ball and the feet and shoulders square to the line.

Finally, I like to see the golfer build a repetitive and reliable routine — one that combines reading and visualizing the path to the hole, maybe a practice stroke or two, a method for aiming and a simple, fluid and trusting stroke.

Great putting starts with a positive attitude and commitment to the line. Then, roll it the right speed and let it go. ✪

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Most people spend entire lives searching for what they want to do. Not 19 year-old, Andrew Brown. He’s known all along. The 2009 College Park graduate and golf phenom recently took the Player Ability Test on October 4 at Lone Tree Golf Course. The PAT serves as the introductory exam to becoming a head pro.

“I want to become a head golf pro and eventually own a golf course,” declares Brown, who was firstteam All-Diablo Valley Athletic League his senior year.

Not bad, especially considering most 19-year-olds are more engrossed with what flavor of Top Ramen they’ll scarf down on any certain night.

Passing the PAT is no easy feat as it requires players to shoot a combined 36-hole score of 155 or lower.

How did Brown do? “I shot a 146 (72-74),” Brown announces. “That’s 2-over par at Lone Tree.”

His score was the second lowest of 24 participants.

Oh yeah, he was also the youngest by about four years. Brown will serve as an apprentice at Grayson Woods Golf Course in Pleasant Hill for the near future.

— Erik Stordahl

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tee2green

Practice is more than just physical preparation

P

ractice is the most used and least understood word in sport. We hear it from our first days in pee-wee sports.

Everyone, from our parents, our coaches and teachers tell us that if we practice more we can achieve anything we desire.

I wish it was so easy.

Practice has both positive and negative meanings for many student-athletes, especially for athletes playing an individual sport such as golf. This conflict usually stems from grappling with time management and striking a balance between committing to golf, school and your social life.

This is why I love to watch athletes practice.

Practice tells me everything. I will watch a frustrated golfer continuously beat balls on the range, dragging one ball onto the mat after another, only to hit each successive shot worse

Foothill’s Anja Kong holds her followthrough after a practiceround drive on the No. 4 tee at Callippe Preserve in Pleasanton.

Buth Noble

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Get Mental Doug Gardner

than the one before.

It takes about 8-10 shots before the individual gets frustrated enough to go on “tilt” for a few shots, then they calm down and hit a few nice shots before starting the process all over again. Sound familiar?

Have you ever thought about how you practice? Do you mindlessly hit balls on the range, to the neglect of your putting, your short game and shots inside of 100 yards?

Do you pound your driver or your favorite club at the range, while avoiding the clubs in your bag you need to work on the most?

Tough questions to answer, yet I ask them because research indicates that most athletes seek to work on their strengths, while avoiding their weaknesses.

In the heat of competition, various situations arise which often require your ability to

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tee2green handle the “tool bag” of shots that arise on the course. It is in these times that mental and physical preparation are revealed.

There are only so many things an athlete can control during competition and preparation is at the top of this list. Preparation is about self awareness and is self-imposed.

Preparation is not always meant to be fun.

Practice must be deliberate and it must be purposeful.

How do you feel when you really study for a test and really know the material? How much confidence do you have going into and during the test? In the end, why were you confident?

The answer is somewhat easy and based in common sense: you were prepared, you were competent and both fostered true confidence in your ability to do well on the test.

The one way to develop true confidence is to first develop competence. To become competent, one must be able to accept that improvement and practice are linked and that change will not come immediately. It is difficult for

many athletes to commit to their long-term growth because they are so consumed with wanting to put up good scores now.

The average high school golfer understands what they need to do to improve, yet they do not take consistent action. The above average golfer has embraced practice and works on their physical game consistently. The excellent golfer has learned how to integrate both the mental and physical into their preparation on a consistent and purposeful basis.

Take fifteen minutes, and apply the following questions to your golf game: 1. Identify your strengths and weaknesses in the following three areas: ■ Your physical conditioning.

■ The fundamentals of your golf swing.

■ Your mental game.

2. Based on this information, plan out activities you can do during one day of practice to do something productive in each of these three areas.

3. Set aside a time to work on 1-3 areas of

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your game that need improvement during your next practice.

4. At the end of this day, take 15 minutes to write down your experiences and insight gained through working on both strengths and weaknesses in practice.

5. Based on this insight, identify one to three things you want to work on the next day in practice and figure out how you will accomplish this.

The challenge becomes, can you do this on a day-to-day basis? Can you set aside 15 minutes at the end of each day and think about what you did that day to improve, gain insight from your work and apply this knowledge to your practice the next day?

It is easier to think about more immediate and pressing issues, like wanting to shoot low scores, being happy when you do and being upset when you don’t. The irony is, whether you shot an 82 or a 72 today, you still want to shoot a low score tomorrow. ✪

Meet SportStars’ newest columnist Doug Gardner is a sports psychologist who spent six years (1998-2003) as a sports psychology consultant with the Boston Red Sox. He is the founder of the ThinkSport Consulting Services which has locations in both Southern and Northern California.

Contact Doug by email at dg@thinksport.com.

READ MORE ONLINE: Gardner’s columns will appear regularly at www.SportStarsMag.com.

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golf hot products showcase

Wet it, fold it, store it, clean it Nobody likes cleaning a golf ball. It’s never easy and you always seem to end up with a mouthful of dirt or grass. Not with the Golf Round, the coolest and most practical invention since, for our money, the Dustbuster.

Just follow the instructions from the catchy headline and voila. This revolutionary towel is a must-have on the course. Seriously, golf doesn’t need to be anymore frustrating than it already is. Normally $6.95 but on sale for $4 now through November 30. Perfect stocking stuffer! For more info, go to www.golfround.com

Driving king Do you keep coming up short of the green? Do your friends constantly out-drive you? Then pick up the SQ Machspeed STR8-Fit Driver from Nike. Wielding this bad boy will get you more speed, distance and forgiveness on the tee box than any other driver on the market. If you’ve already got your short game down pat then adding the STR8-Fit driver should give you a constant winning edge over your friends and boss.

Maybe you’ll finally beat your father-in-law, too. Check out www.nikegolf.com for more info.

The Encylopedia Brittanica for golf nerds Here’s a book that everyone will read religiously, Northern California’s Best 100 Public Golf Courses.

Canonized by Doug Dawson, Best 100 Golf offers a microscopic look at EVERY public golf course in Nor Cal while ranking the Top 100. From the hidden gems up in Arcata down to world-renowned Pebble Beach, Best 100 covers it all. This book belongs in every golfer’s car and is a must-have for golf nuts. Only $24.

Check out www.best100golf.com for more information!

Say what?!

Nike’s got a brand new bag Teen golfers: You know you can’t drive a cart yet, so make those long walks down the fairways easier on your shoulders! Nike’s got the perfect solution for you, the Sunday Carry bag. It’s super light but can still hold a full set of clubs, balls, tees, drinks and maybe even your homework. Want something bigger and more robust? Well, Nike’s got those bags too. Like the Performance Carry or the Collegiate Carry. Whether you’re teeing off at Augusta or just playing the front nine on a lazy Saturday, Nike’s got a bag for every occasion.

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Is your hideous golf game hindering you from making an impression on the course? Then check out LoudmouthGolf.com today and you’ll instantly become the talk of your foursome. They’ve got a look for every loud personality out there. Maybe disco balls are your look. Or cotton candy. What about Tarzan? From Pretty Boy and Pazeltine to Shagadelic and Stars & Stripes, Loudmouth is here to help you make a golfing fashion statement. Pants, shirts, shorts, belts, gloves, neckwear and headwear. Your golf game won’t improve a lick and you’ll still be the worst player out there, but at least all eyes will be on you. Visit www.LoudmouthGolf. com and pick out your new duds today!

Make your opponents’ heads spin Who doesn’t want to putt like Steve Stricker or Retief Goosen? It’s the hardest part of golf and it’s keeping struggling amateurs from making primo cash on the Tour. Well, the Medicus OverSpin Performance Putter is here to help. All you have to do is swing and the OverSpin will take care of the rest. It’ll navigate you through the trickiest parts on the green and cause you to shoot lower scores. What more can a golfer ask for? Well, maybe if it could actually talk and drive a golf cart, we think that’d be pretty cool. Just sayin’. $19.95. Check out www.4overspin.com for more details.

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golf hot products showcase

The putting green service ... from above What golfer doesn’t want their very own putting green in their own backyard? That’s like a kid asking for a pool filled with ice cream and for Christmas to be everyday. Our friends over at Heavenly Greens can make your dreams come true (sans the ice creamfilled pool). Call now and ask about their 20% Off Fall Sale! You’ll be sinking putts in your bathrobe in no time.

Check ‘em out online at www.heavenlygreens.com

A golf ball that hooks and slices the competition What if we told you the solution to hooking and slicing wasn’t found in your swing mechanics, but in choosing the right ball? Now that we’ve got your attention, head on over to www.polaragolf.com. Their golf balls have been tested and proven to decrease hooks and slices by up to 75 percent! So stop living in the rough; spend more time on the fairways and greens with Polara. Prices starting as low as $19.99.

Need golf clubs? Miura is the perfect fit Swing into action You’re not fooling anyone when you say you have the “perfect swing.” So pick up the GetStacked DVD series.

You’ll learn all about the Stack & Tilt, the revolutionary golf swing that keeps your ball on the fairway and out of the rough and sand traps. Developed by Michael Bennett and Andy Plummer, two dudes that know their stuff when it comes to golf, science, technology, etc. The Stack & Tilt is used by over twenty touring pros. Figure out this amazing swing pattern and you’ll start hitting like Bubba Watson in no time! Stop shanking and start driving. Only $9.95. Go to www.6StackandTilt.com

Get fitted by master fitter, David Butler, today. This guy can help anybody. Think you’re too young or too old? His clients range from 8-92 years old. Think you’re too good or too bad of a golfer? David has helped pros improve their game and beginners get fitted for their first set of clubs. All ages and levels! Check it out online at www.miuragolf.us to learn more!

What’s the hang up?

We think this is what happened to Picasso’s golf club whenever he landed one in the sandtrap. Just a hunch. Learn more about the Golf Hanger, the artsiest of all golf clubs, at www.TheGolfHanger.com and www.

UrbaneInnovations.com

Put your money where your clip is

Nice kicks!

Our friends over at Nike recently hooked us up with some slick golf shoes, the Air Zoom Elite II. Yeah, that’s what they’re called. And if you think the awesomeness starts and finishes with the name, wait ‘til you try them on. With golf being...hmm...probably the most frustrating/annoying/pull-your-hair-out sport in the world, wearing these comfort kicks will put your mind at ease. You’ll also look really cool, too.

You’re ready for an afternoon with the guys but there’s one thing you’re missing — a money clip. How else do you plan on treating your group to lunch after you post the lowest score of the day? Go to www. storus.com where they’ve got a library full of money clips, wallets and other goodies that are essential for every stylish golfer. Prices start as low as $5.95.

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Bookmark this site, don’t shank it!

Raise your hand if you’ve been to eBay. Now raise your hand if you wished there was an eBay devoted solely to golf. Good news! Allow us to introduce you to ShankMeister.com — the online, one-stop shop for everything golf. Shankmeister has everything you’re looking for: clubs, balls, bags, tees, shoes, shirts. Look for the cheapest deal available and sell your gear with ZERO commission taken. Be sure to check the site daily for NEW products from a myriad of vendors.

Can you hear me now?

Still trying to perfect your swing like Fred Couples and you’re just not getting anywhere? How ’bout imitating Freddie in the shoe department instead? We think that’s more doable. Pick up a pair of Ecco shoes today and walk the course in comfort and style. For more info: Walnut Creek: (925) 946-4674 • San Francisco (415) 834-1420 October 14, 2010

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tee2green ■ Sea Ranch Golf Links: 2-for-1 special, all day Monday: $90 for two players, 18 holes plus cart.

(707) 785-2468.

■ San Ramon Golf Club: 2-for-1 special: Monday-Thursday, pay one green free, get the second free. Cart rental required for both players. Valid through March 1, 2011. (925) 828-6100.

■ Diablo Grande Golf Winery & Resort: Fall rates: $49 Sunday-Thursday; $69 FridaySaturday. $35 Twilight (after noon), $25 Super Twilight (after 2:30 p.m.)

7 days a week. (209) 892-4653.

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golf specials ■ Tilden Park Golf Course: Foursome Friday: $160 for foursome includes green fee, cart fee and more. (510) 848-7373.

■ Lake Chabot Golf Course: Super Twilight everyday! $10 green fees. Starts at 3 pm.

(510) 351-5812.

■ Poppy Ridge Golf Course: It’s time to renew your NCGA membership. Join one of many eClubs at Poppy Ridge or check out www.ncga.org. (925) 456-8202

■ Boundary Oaks Golf Course: October 28, Spooky Scramble. 6 p.m.: BBQ dinner. 7 p.m.: Shotgun start. $39 includes golf, BBQ and glow ball supplies.

(925) 934-6212 ■ Castlewood Country Club: Meet, play, relax, return.

Pleasanton. (925) 485-2239 ■ Diablo Creek Golf Course: Lunchtime special. MonThurs, all day Friday. $41 includes green fee, cart, sandwich and side dish. Super Twilight Rate: after 4 pm. $15 walking. (925) 686-6267 — Erik Stordahl

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game day BASKETBALL Oct. 16: Clayton — All Out Sports League’s Youth Basketball League’s Magic vs. Warriors. 2 p.m. @ Clayton Community Gym, Court 2. Casey, 510-282-4986, casey_c@ alloutsportsleague.com.

Online registration: www. leaguelineup.com.

Oct. 23: Clayton — All Out Sports League’s Youth Basketball League’s Magic vs. Nets. 2 p.m. @ Clayton Community Gym, Court 2. Casey, 510-282-4986, casey_c@ alloutsportsleague.com.

Online registration: www. leaguelineup.com.

Oct. 30: Clayton — All Out Sports League’s Youth Basketball League’s Magic vs. Spurs. 2 p.m. @ Clayton Community Gym, Court 2. Casey, 510-282-4986, casey_c@ alloutsportsleague.com.

Online registration: www. leaguelineup.com.

Get out and get involved

— Wargaming at The Paintball Zone. Second Sundays monthly, Modesto Airsoft and Combat Enterprises.

Info: www.modesto. combatenterprises.com SOCCER Oct. 17: Spokane, WA — St. Mary’s College Gaels vs. Gonzaga. 2:30 p.m. @ Gonzaga. 925-631-4949, www.stmarys-ca.edu.

Oct. 29: Moraga — St. Mary’s College Gaels vs. Gonzaga. 3 p.m. @ home. 925-631-4949, www.stmarys-ca.edu.

Oct. 30-31: Concord — 12th Annual Halloween Kick or Treat Classic. Diablo FC’s U9, U10 and U11 US Club Soccer Gold and Silver level boys & girls teams in Concord. Info: mwhite@ diablofc.org. 925-798-4625,

www.diablofc.org.

Walnut Creek — Walnut Creek Soccer Club October fest. Kevin Erwin, tournament director, 925383-5957, kevinserwin@ astound.net; www.wcsc.org.

Oct. 31: Moraga — St. Mary’s College Gaels vs.

Portland. 1 p.m. @ home.

925-631-4949, www.stmarysca.edu.

Dec. 11-12: Danville — Mustang 6v6 Shootout Tournament. At Danville/ Alamo area locations. Cris Gilmore, 408-768-8821, cris.gilmore@sbcglobal. net; 925-648-4121, www. mustangsoccer.com.

Jan. 8-Jan. 9: Danville — Mustang Winter Turf Tournament. At Danville/ Alamo area locations. 925648-4121, fredwilson@

mustangsoccer.com; www. mustangsoccer.com.

TENNIS Oct. 14: Walnut Creek/Concord — DVAL Girls. 3:30 p.m.

Northgate @ Berean Christian, Mt. Diablo @ Clayton Valley, Ygnacio Valley @ Concord. 925685-8414, Ext. 2405; www. diabloval.com.

Walnut Creek — Northgate High vs. Berean Christian.

3:30 p.m. @ Berean Christian. 925-938-0900, Ext. 2140, nghsad@gmail.com; www.northgatebroncos.org.

Oct. 19: Walnut Creek/Concord — DVAL Girls. 3:30 p.m.

College Park @ Northgate, Clayton Valley @ Ygnacio Valley, Berean Christian @ Concord. 925-685-8414, Ext. 2405; www.diabloval.com

CYCLING Oct. 23: Danville — The Cruella Challenge. 6:30 a.m. check-in at Oak Hill Park. Coed; presented

by Diablo Multisport Connection’s Women’s Endurance Team.

Registration at registration@ cruellachallenge.com; www. cruellachallenge.com.

RECREATION Through Dec. 12: Waterford

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BASEBALL Through Dec. 31: Antioch — Batting Cages. For all ages at Golf N Games Family Fun Center. 925-7545053, www.golfngames.com.

Oct. 23-Nov. 27: Concord — Late morning

Saturdays @ Woodside Elementary School. Ages 8-14. Registration: http:// walnutcreeksportsleague. com.

Dec. .8-Jan. 12: Antioch — Antioch Little League’s Spring 2011 Season

Registration. 6-8 p.m.

Dec. 8 and Jan 12; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 11 and Jan. 8 and 15. All at Golf N Games. 925-431-8478, www. antiochlittleleague.com.

BASKETBALL Through Oct. 28: Antioch

— All Out Sports League’s Youth Basketball League Signups. Online @ www. leaguelineup.com. Casey, 510-282-4986, casey_c@ alloutsportsleague.com.

Oct. 16-30: Antioch — All Out Sports League’s Basketball Fundamentals Clinic. 9 a.m. Saturdays @ Edna Hill Middle School. Casey, 510282-4986, casey_c@ alloutsportsleague.com; www.leaguelineup.com.

CHEER Through Oct. 28: Antioch — All Out Sports League’s Cheer Signups. Online @ www. leaguelineup.com. Casey, 510-282-4986, casey_c@ alloutsportsleague.com.

COMMUNITY EVENTS Oct. 22: Walnut Creek — 4th Friday Dinner ~ Oktoberfest Dinner at

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Boundary Oak Golf Course.

Time and reservations: 925-934-4775, www. playboundaryoak.com.

Group Ride. Meet at 8 a.m. Sundays at Sports Basement. 925-941-6100, www.sportsbasement.com.

Oct. 23: Alameda — Kids Fest: Fun for the Whole Family @ Bladium Sports & Fitness Club. 510-814-4999, www.bladium.com.

Oct. 18: Walnut Creek — Fun Run 6:30 p.m. @ Sports Basement. Meet in front of the store. Local runners; all skill levels. 925-941-6100, www.sportsbasement.com.

Oct. 23: Alameda — Bladium Fitness Challenge @ Bladium Sports & Fitness Club. Register by Oct. 20 at the front desk. 510-8144999, www.bladium.com.

CYCLING Through Nov. 3: Walnut Creek — Women’s Daylight Saving Group Ride Series.

6-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays @ Sports Basement. All levels welcome; women only. 925-941-6100, www. sportsbasement.com.

Through Dec. 26: Walnut Creek — Mountain Bike

Oct. 23: Richmond — Bicycle Trails Council of the East Bay’s Youth Mountain Bike Adventures.

At Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. RSVP, Jeff Edmonston, 510-325-2417.

FITNESS Through Dec. 20: Walnut Creek — Bootcamp and Cardio Self-Defense.

Both at All In One Fitness.

925-939-1001, www. allineonefitnessinfo.com.

Through Dec. 22: Walnut Creek — CPR Certification.

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twenty-four7 6-8:30 p.m. Tues. and Wed. at Sports Basement. Register by emailing your name, address and phone number to sb.cpr.walnutcreek@ sportsbasement.com.

Through Dec. 31: Pleasant Hill — Tae Kwon Do, Fitness Kickboxing, Kickboxing, Yoga, Birthday Parties. Ongoing at Fitness Innovations & Tae Kwon Do in County Square Shopping Center. 925-685-8338,

chooseFIT@aol.com; www. choosefit.net.

Through Dec. 31: Walnut Creek — Youth training program. Ongoing at Forma. 925-262-1339, www. formagym.com.

Through Dec. 31: Concord — AIRobics. Classes at Sky High Sports. First come, first served. 925682-5867, http://CON. jumpskyhigh.com.

Through Dec. 31: Martinez — Sports, Fitness & Recreation. For ages 6-18.

Ongoing programs in Sports, Fitness and Recreation. 925370-6838, www.bgcdv.org.

Through Dec. 31: Brentwood — Treading Trends LVL 1-3. 9-10 a.m.

Tues., at In-Shape Health Club. Fees and registration: 925-602-5600, www. inshapeclubs.com.

Through Dec. 31: Concord — Sports Performance. At East Bay Sports Academy. For ages 10+. Schedules and fees: 925-680-9999, info@ eastbaysportsacademy.com; www.eastbaysportsacademy. com.

Through Dec. 31: Antioch — Public Skating. For all ages at Paradise Skate.

925-779-0204, www. paradiseskate.com.

Through Dec. 31: Concord — Group Cycling LVL 1-3, Mix It Up LVL 2-3, both at In-Shape Health Club. Fees and registration: 925-6025600, www.inshapeclubs. com.

Through Dec. 31: Antioch — Group Cycling LVL 1-3.

For all ages and fitness levels, at In-Shape Health Club. Fees and registration: 925-602-5600, www. inshapeclubs.com.

Through Dec. 31: Antioch — In-Shape Kids LVL 1.

For ages 6-12, at In-Shape Health Club. Designed for children to embark on an adventure in fitness and wellness. Fees and registration: 925-602-5600, www.inshapeclubs.com.

Through Dec. 31: Brentwood — Group Cycling LVL 1-3. For all ages and fitness levels, at InShape Health Club. Fees and registration: 925-602-5600, www.inshapeclubs.com.

Bladium prepares for Halloween event

Calling all families who like having fun. Clear your calendar for Saturday, October 23. Bladium Sports and Fitness Club in Alameda is putting on their Halloween event starting at 10:00 am. This is the perfect event for the whole family. Games, costume contests, candy, prizes — it’s a slice of heaven for the youngsters.

Bladium boasts a wide array of programs, activities, tournaments and events for all ages. Play soccer, basketball, volleyball, hockey or lacrosse in their state-of-the-art facility.

Maybe you prefer boxing, MMA or flag football.

Is pumping iron more of your thing? What about a fitness classes? Perhaps scaling a 34-foot rock wall is up your alley. Well, Bladium’s got all that.

Bladium is so gigantic it used to serve as a hangar bay for airplanes. No, we’re not joking. With Bladium you’ll never have the excuse of being bored so head over there today!

MMA and Personal Training. 925-822-7268; www.gorillafitclub.com.

FUNDRAISER Oct. 23: Oakland — Encinal Jets Water Polo Car Wash.

Time/location TBD. 510-7484023, http://ehs.alamedausd. ca.schoolloop.com.

Oct. 23-24: Danville — Joey Moore “Let’s Play Ball” Jamboree 2010! 5-10 p.m. Sat./Sun. @ Los Cerros Middle School.

Through Dec. 31: Concord — Rocktopia. Open climb Saturdays at Encore Gym. Open to all climbers, ages 5-adult. 925-932-1033, office@encoregym.com; www.encoregym.com.

RACE Nov. .25: Walnut Creek — 18th Annual Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness Club Turkey Trot. Kicks off at 8 a.m. @ Civic Park. Details & registration: www.wcsf.net.

Through Dec. 31: Martinez — Ultimate Sport Fitness-

SOCCER Through Nov. 5:

Pleasanton — BUSC U7/8 Summer Academy. 4-5:15 p.m. Fridays at Hansen Park. Info: Tony Chavarria, Tonyatallstar@comcast.net; www.busc.org. Registration: Cindy, 925-463-6313, buscsoccer@aol.com.

SWIM Through Nov. 19: Orinda — Fall Swimming with Coach Eric Lane. At Moraga Valley Pool. 925376-4110, SwimTeam@ MoragaValleyPool.org; http:// moragavalleypool.org.

Through Dec. 31: Concord — Swim Classes in Heated Outdoor Pool for all ages at In-shape. Fees and registration: 925-602-5600, www.inshapeclubs.com.

TENNIS Oct. 14-Dec. 31: Pleasanton — Youth Lessons. Ongoing. Bronze Team, ages 7-18; Silver Team, ages 9-16; Gold Team, ages 12-18. Info: 925-931-3449, www. lifetimetennis.com.

Oct. 14-Dec. 31: Walnut Creek — Youth Lessons.

Ongoing. Beginning to intermediate lessons, ages 7-15. Info: 925-931-3449, www.lifetimetennis.com.

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October 14, 2010

SportStars™

37

BigBikeEntryform

Or enter at

Check boxes of any advertisers from which you’d like more info, then mail or fax it to us! Or drop it off at the SportStars office or the Walnut Creek Sports Basement! ❒❒ 101.7 KKIQ/92.1 KKDV . . . . . . . . . . 26

❒❒ Clayton/Countrywood Fitness Centers. . 35

❒❒ AAA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

❒❒ Club Sport Renaissance. . . . . . . . . . 25

❒❒ Antioch’s Great Family Ent. Centers. . 20

❒❒ Community Youth Center. . . . . . . . . 26

❒❒ Absorber, The. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 ❒❒ Bay Area Golf Show. . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

❒❒ Comcast Hometown Network. . . . . . 15 ❒❒ Conco Companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

❒❒ Big C Athletic Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

❒❒ Crow Canyon Country Club . . . . . . . 28

❒❒ Bladium Sports & Fitness Clubs. . . . 36

❒❒ Dave DeLong School of Golf . . . . . . 34

❒❒ Big O Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 ❒❒ Bob Larson Sports Photography. . . . 37 ❒❒ Boys & Girls Clubs/Diablo Valley . . . 24

❒❒ De La Salle Radio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

❒❒ Diablo Creek Golf Course. . . . . . . . . 34 ❒❒ Dublin Ranch Golf Course . . . . . . . . 35

❒❒ Brenden Theatres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

❒❒ Ecco Store, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

❒❒ Cheers Gym. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

❒❒ East Bay Sports Academy . . . . . . . . 13

❒❒ Championship Athletic Fundraising. . . . 29

❒❒

eTeamSponsor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 5

❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒

Excellence in Sport Performance. . . . 19 Farmers Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Field of Green. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30, 31 Fit 2 The Core. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Franklin Creek Golf Course . . . . . . . 29 Greenhorn Creek Golf Club . . . . . . . 34 Haunted Plaza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Heavenly Greens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Jory’s Flowers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Kepler’s Golf & Repair . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Kinders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Lake Chabot Golf Course. . . . . . . . . 29 Lone Tree Golf & Event Center. . . . . 34 Marty Foster Golf Instruction. . . . . . . 28

❒❒ Massage Envy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

❒❒ National Alumni Group. . . . . . . . . . . 14

❒❒ Poppy Ridge Golf Course. . . . . . . . . 35 ❒❒ Scandia Family Center. . . . . . . . . . . 35

❒❒ Simply Selling Shirts. . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 ❒❒ Smokin Okie’s BBQ Joint. . . . . . . . . 36

❒❒ SportForm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 ❒❒ SportStars Big Bike Giveaway. . . . . 38, 39

❒❒ SureShot Productions. . . . . . . . . . . . 29

❒❒ Tilden Park Golf Course. . . . . . . . . . 34 ❒❒ UFC gym. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 ❒❒ Walnut Creek Sport & Fitness. . . . . . 38 ❒❒ Wooden It Be Nice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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e Name________________________________________________ Phone_______________________ E-mail________________________________________ Sp ❒❒ Enter me to win! But no subscription at this time! ❒❒ Hey, while I’m at it, sign me up for a subscription! For 24 issues, U.S. 3rd class $24 (allow 3 weeks for delivery).

Prizes subject to change. Entries must be received by Oct. 31 ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ Expiration date_______________ Card #_______________________________ Total___________ Signature________________________________________ 38

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October 14, 2010

Mail: SPORTSTARS Interactive, 5356 Clayton Road, Suite 222, Concord, CA 94521 • Fax: 925.566-8507

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