October 2006 Archives

You better believe it was a tough decision this past summer for former Canyon High football defensive coordinator Scott Blade to leave his beloved Cowboys for his first head coaching job - all the way across the country at Hillsboro High in Nashville, Tenn.

But, oh, has it been worth it. Blade, 33, has never been happier, leading Hillsboro to a 10-0 regular-season record and a No. 2 ranking in its region this week heading into the first round of the Tennessee 4A playoffs, which is the state's second-largest division.

"I really like it here," Blade said. "I like everything about it, even though Nashville is so different than L.A., especially the weather. I'd never felt humidity like here, which is much different than the dry heat at Canyon. At Canyon, you get a nice sun tan, but in Nashville the humidity just zaps the water right out of you. There have been a lot of changes for me and my family, but they've all been positive."

Amazingly, two years earlier Blade had wanted to remain close to home but was spurned by Golden Valley High's administration when he asked for a job. The Grizzlies have since won two games in two seasons, including an 0-8 record this year.

"I sent (Golden Valley Principal) Jacque Snyder a letter of inquiry asking about the application deadline, and let's just say I didn't get the warmest feeling back," Blade said.

"I wanted to be Golden Valley's first coach, and I thought I should have been given consideration. I told them I already had a staff in place for Golden Valley, and had even designed uniforms and T-shirts. They decided I wasn't what they were looking for."

Snyder said Monday that she could not recall Blade's interest.

So Blade, who played at Canyon and briefly coached at Glendale College and College of the Canyons before returning to his alma mater when head coach Harry Welch came out of retirement in 2001, searched far and wide for a program willing to provide an opportunity for someone who had proven himself as an underling but had no head-coaching experience.

Frankly, Blade never expected a second look from Hillsboro, which had nearly 30 applicants - many with long track records of successes - who applied to be the new coach. Yet Principal Bob Lawson was willing to take a chance on him.

"I was particularly impressed with Scott's presence and his plan," Lawson said. "I also had a long chat with Harry Welch, and he was very positive about what Scott had done as Canyon's head assistant, and that Scott was ready to be a head coach."

When he got the job, Blade was in such a time crunch that he hired all of his assistants over the phone. Then Blade did what came naturally, which was to convert Hillsboro, which had averaged 12 victories over the preceding six seasons (including three consecutive section championship appearances from 2001-03,) into a mirror image of Canyon. Hillsboro had run a conservative wing-T offense and man-to-man defense, but Blade switched to a Canyon-style one-back spread offense and a zone defense.

"It's the same Canyon offense, defense and special teams," Blade said. "We kind of turned everything upside-down from what the kids had done before, but they've really bought into it. It's the same stuff you see at Canyon, but no one sees it out here."

It's working, big time. Hillsboro is averaging nearly 35 points per game and has won by an average margin of more than 23 points.

"Actually, a lot of the points we've given up have been at the end when the outcome already was decided," Lawson said. "I think twice the other team scored on the last play."

Matt Arent had passed for more than 1,500 yards and 19 touchdowns, and Jacquese Seward has rushed for nearly 1,300 yards with 25 touchdowns.

"We even totaled 400 yards in the rain last week," Blade said. "I think the best thing about this team is they keep on wanting to get better every week."

Blade, his wife Shari, twin daughters Lauren and Alexis, 7, and daughter Brooke, 4, are loving every minute of it.

"It's been a big challenge but we're really enjoying it," he said. "Depending on who we play, we get at least a few thousand at every game, and the press coverage is pretty good, too. I've been interviewed on TV in the main news five times, and last Wednesday they had me in the studio. The principal and everyone else had made me feel like a million bucks, and they continue to do that every day. Football is king out here."

Reluctantly, Blade admits he sometimes feels a bit homesick, but he's never been happier.

"I still miss the Canyon kids and the community, and I miss working with Harry Welch," he said. "But it's OK because I keep up and still talk with Harry about twice a week."

-- Blade isn't the only one with local football ties who's made an out-of-state impact. Former Hart High receiver Taylor Embree, who moved to Kansas for his senior year, has emerged as quite a player for Blue Valley West High in Stilwell.

Embree has 27 receptions for 354 yards and five touchdowns despite missing nearly three full games for Blue Valley West (5-4), which begins the playoffs this week.

"Taylor is an outstanding player," Blue Valley West coach Scott Wright said. "We knew he was great as a junior at Hart, and he'd probably have a lot more receptions for us if he didn't miss those games and we didn't have a great corps of receivers who also have a lot of catches."

Embree, who's 6-foot-3, is being heavily recruited and might commit soon to Missouri or Kansas.

Meanwhile, Hart (4-4) has had its struggles without Embree, who was the team's only experienced returning receiver.

"Embree is really doing that well out there? Oh, don't tell me that," Hart coach Mike Herrington said with a smile.

gerry.gittelson@dailynews.com
(661) 257-5218

The Daily News has long done a Readers Poll on the best restaraunts, dry cleaners, mechanics, etc in the coverage area. So how about an informal poll on the best football snack shacks in the area?

Here are a few of my favorites from this year:

1. St Francis: Last night was my first time covering a game at St. Francis and I have to say, I'll be asking to cover games there more often. Besides being one of the most beautiful settings for a high school football games around, the Golden Knights really know how to run a good snack shack. I recommend the carne asada tacos.

2. I also have to give a shout out to the folks at St. Bonaventure and Oak Park. Both make a mean tri-tip sandwich.

3. Calabasas doesn't get many extra fans at their home football games, but if you go, try the meatball sub.

4. I haven't been up the AV High in a while, but from what I remember the 'Lopes have a great booster club and snack shack.

5. I haven't tried it myself, but word is, the hotdogs at Canoga Park used to be pretty good. My source hasn't been there in a while, but if he remembers a hotdog from 5 years ago being good, that says something.

Your thoughts?

It's sad that such a great football game had to end that way.

The game I am alluding to, of course, is Westlake High's 26-23 double overtime victory Friday night over Agoura in a Marmonte League showdown.

Trailing by three points in the second overtime, Agoura running back Matt Bradley appeared to cross the goal line from 2-yards out for the game-winning score.

It appeared from my vantage point - at the goal line on the Agoura side - that Bradley maintained possession before the ground caused the fumble right at the chalk.

Apparently, the referees ruled that Bradley did not have full control of the ball at the time.

If that's what they saw, then that's what they saw.

It was such a bang-bang play that it's unfair to criticize the call.

It really could have gone either way, and Westlake (8-0 overall, 5-0 Marmonte) just happened to be the team that got the call.

Agoura, on the other hand, was so devestated by the play that dozens of players walked off the field in tears.

The Chargers (5-3, 2-3) played well enough to pull off the upset, but Lady Luck just happens to be on Westlake's side this season.

I was at the Warriors' 28-27 victory over Hart of Newhall in Week 3, when Westlake won by thwarting a 2-point conversion with less than a minute remaining to win.

After Friday's game, Westake quarterback Ryan Campbell even admitted that "somebody in the heavens really likes us this year."

So, hats off to Westlake, which will meet Moorpark (7-1, 5-0) Nov. 10 in a game that should settle the league championship - baring any major upsets next week.

And all my condolences to Agoura, which just as easily could have won.

kevin.connelly@dailynews.com
(818)713-3607

The Vikings scored with 2:46 remaining to make it 14-13, then went for two to take a 15-13 lead. Then they forced a fourth and 25 for Hart with one minute left, yet somehow Hart converted on a tipped pass that fell into the hands of Hart's Adam Reyes. Three plays later Hart scored the winning TD.

By the way, Reyes intercepted the final pass of the game.

Hart just took the lead 20-15 with 21 seconds left on a 11-yard touchdown pass from Alex Pettee to Brandon Arndt. On the drive the Inidans converted a fourth and 25 on a tipped pass that fell into the hands of Adam Reyes.

The score is 22-15.

Hart would have been awarded a terrific interception.

Instead, the play was ruled an incomplete pass. I'm sitting in the press box next to a pair of TV announcers, and there's a monitor between us. Anyway, Hart defensive back Adam Reyes picked the ball out of the air after it bounced off the shoe of the Valencia receiver. The referee throught the ball hit the ground, and called the play dead..

But it didn't.

The Vikings just had a long pass to Shane Vereen called back on a holding call.

They've had plenty of chances to make something happen _ and in a 14-7 game they're just a play away _ but they keep making big mistakes to nulify anything positive they do.

A very bad play. The Vikings had first and goal inside the Hart 10-yard line when Graham Wilbert inexplicably threw an interception right into Adam Reyes' hands in the end zone.

Wow, what a missed opportunity. Valencia was about to daw even. Now Hart is driving the other way.

Only the second all game. Break up the Vikings!

Obviously still burning from the interception he threw, he just threaded the needle on a rocket throw to Michael Davis for a 27-yard touchdown. With just a small window to throw through, Pettee gunned the ball past defenders right into the waiting arms of Davis. Pettee now has 131 yards passing and two touhdowns. Hart leads 14-7.

By the way, Valencia's got exactly one first down.

And that came on the long touchdown pass to Mulligan.

Obviously still burning from the interception he threw, he just threaded the needle on a rocket throw to Michael Davis for a 27-yard touchdown. With just a small window to throw through, Pettee gunned the ball past defenders right into the waiting arms of Davis. Pettee now has 131 yards passing and two touhdowns. Hart leads 14-7.

By the way, Valencia's got exactly one first down.

And that came on the long touchdown pass to Mulligan.

Valencia defensive back Ryan Smith just denied the Indians with a great pick in the end zone. Hart was in the red zone after driving the length of the field, and were in perfect position to score the go-ahead tochdown. But Hart QB Alex Pettee lofted the ball rather than throwing it, and Smith leaped up and nabbed it.

Sean Mulligan just went 67 yards on a touchdown pass from Graham Wilbert. Wilbert made a nice throw, but really it was all Mulligan. He must have made three cutbacks on the run _ he probably caught the ball 20 yards down field _ cirss-crossing across the field while outrunning defenders, then cutting back again on his way to the end zone.

Very impressive.

Valencia can't get anything going offensively. The Vikings took a shot downfield on a long pass to Virgil Hill, but the throw wasn't close.

Other than that, it's been a mixed bad of unproductive runs and short pass attempts.

I'd like to give all the credit to Hart's defense, but the Vikings have just been pretty bad.

Hart just lined up in the Power I _ yes, a fullback and tailback _ and ran a power sweep.

If you haven't seen Hart over the last decade that probably means very little to you. Let me put things in perspective. Hart's run a four-receiver, shot-gun spread offense for as long as anyone can remeber. The idea of the Indians going two back, quarterback under center is, well, crazy. Almost makes you rub your eyes wondering if you're really seeing what you're seeing.

Obviously the Indians are trying to take advantage of the soft underbelly of Valencia's defense _ their ability to stop the run.

The plan seems to be working. Hart just drove 80 yards for a touchdown. And for you Hart old-schoolers out there, don't worry, the Indians scored their touchdown via the pass.

Something never change.

Dylan Jones, a sophomore who is considered one of the Southland's top young baseball talents, has arrived at Valencia High after transferring from Crespi of Encino.

He's the only 10th-grader who has made Valencia's varsity team, an annual power that won a school-record 25 games last season, including 15 in a row before a playoff loss at Agoura.

"We like Dylan a lot," Valencia coach Jared Snyder said. "As a sophomore, he wouldn't be on the varsity if we didn't think he would contribute."

Jones, who can play several positions, was expected to be one of Crespi's top players. He recently moved to Valencia.

"He had a shot at being our starting shortstop," Crespi assistant David Sehnem said. "We were sorry to see him leave."

gerry.gittelson@dailynews.com
(661) 257-5218

I don’t care which side you’re on, it’s hard to put a positive spin on Canyon High’s 90-0 football victory Friday over Golden Valley, an utter embarrassment not just for Golden Valley but for Canyon, too, because both must live with the humiliation.

Just glancing at the score, Golden Valley looks like a pathetic wimp, and Canyon looks like the neighborhood bully. But in retrospect, was there any way this thing wasn’t going to get out of hand?

In fairness to Canyon, a high-powered defending Southern Section Div. II champion that started the season ranked No. 2 in California, the Cowboys did their best not to rub it in – and this isn’t hearsay because I was there. They ran simple plays, they didn’t play dirty, and coach Harry Welch insisted a running clock be used in the second half.

In fairness to Golden Valley, which has seniors for the first time and has yet to win a game this season, the Grizzlies simply never had a chance with the players they have. They were smaller, weaker, less skilled – and probably scared half to death.

It was 70-0 at halftime, and Welch, who has won a lot of games during his 18-year career – including four section championships – was as bewildered as anyone.

“I’d never been a part of anything like this before,� Welch said. “We could have punted on first down or purposely fumbled or purposely thrown interceptions, but I thought that would have been insulting to Golden Valley. Even some of my players came up to me during the game and asked me what they should do. I just told them to play hard but be respectful.�

In the second half, Canyon didn’t run a single play outside the tackles, and every player on the team got into the game.

“That was the good part because we have guys who’ve been working hard in practice for eight months, and it was nice to see them out there on the field,� Canyon receiver Mark Urbina said. “I’ve got good friends on this team who work hard every day in practice but had never got a chance to play.�

Golden Valley offensive lineman Dean Woolum said he just tried to stay in the moment and to not dwell on the score.

“I was mostly concerned with the player in front of me, so I just tried to take care of my blocks, do my job, and hit my hardest,� Woolum said. “Our team morale? We’re learning and we’ve just got to let this game go and put it behind us. It’s history. It’s done. Monday we’ll go back to practice and give 100 percent. Yes, the odds are against us big time but I’ve accepted it. It’s fine by me. I’m just going to go out there and keep playing.�

There is a growing concern among Golden Valley parents that it’s unfair for the Grizzlies to be in the powerful Foothill League so soon, especially in light of the football program’s decreasing numbers from 125 last year to about 70 even though there are four grades this season for the first time.

“We have no business being in the Foothill League, and whoever decided in the beginning to put us there made a very big mistake,� said Golden Valley booster vice-president Robert Speers, father of lineman Joe Speers. “The kids are paying the price. They’re getting better but with this schedule they don’t have a chance to catch their breath. It’s just not right.�

Speers said a Canyon parent came to Golden Valley’s practice on Saturday and apologized.

“Most of the Golden Valley parents who have been around for all three years are absolutely numb,� Speers said. “We’re not in the denial stage anymore. We’re just numb.�

There are no magic words or easy solutions that are going to soothe Golden Valley as the sun sets on what probably will remain for many years the most one-sided football loss in area history.

But there will be better times ahead. After all, Hart, which leads the area with eight section titles, went 0-8 in its first season.

Welch, 61, has been around long enough not to dwell on Friday’s outcome – and that goes for both teams.

“The day will come when other teams will fear the Grizzlies,� Welch said.

Welch didn’t feel the need to set a timetable. No one should. But the sooner the better.

gerry.gittelson@dailynews.com
(661) 257-5218

After the game, Oaks Christian coach Bill Redell and running back Marc Tyler rushed to defend star quarterback Jimmy Clausen after ``LeBron'' was whistled for a personal foul for something he said after out of frustration after the Lions were called for their third delay of game penalty of the night.

``I think Jimmy was just mad at himself and the ref thought he was talking to him,'' Tyler said.

Redell even took some of the blame himself, saying the coaching staff was confused about when the officiating crew was starting the play clock and thus, responsible for all the delay of game calls.

To some, a few extra penalties passes for a controversy at Oaks Christian. It's hard to say exactly what Clausen said that the referees took as insult but the referees I spoke with at halftime didn't make a big deal out of it. From up high in the press box, it just looked like a kid being a bit frustrated with silly mistakes.

Alas, they do make mistakes...

The Eagles called time out twice over the final 26 seconds trying to put the ball in the end zone, but the plan backfired. Big time.

On the last play of the game, Oak Park quarterback Darren McGee was intercepted by Oaks Christian linebacker Joe Lee, who rumbled and tumbled 86 yards for a touchdown as time expired.

Final score, Oaks Christian 55-7.

And with that, most of the the Oaks Christian's first-team offense just got pulled from the game. Not that it mattered. Chris Potter just went 22 yards for a touchdown to make it 49-7. Yikes.

Say what you want about Oaks Christian, love them or hate them, whatever.

These guys are good.

Really good.

Scary good.

To a man, the Lions will tell you they weren't on top of their game tonight. But guess what? It didn't matter. They've simply taken Oak Park apart.

Mark Tyler has 270 yards and four twouchdowns on 14 carries, and in a 35-7 game early in the fourth quarter that means the only suspense right now is, will he or won't he?

As in, play long enough to pick up the 30 yards he needs to get 300, of course.

I mean it. Mark Tyler just went 92 yards for a touchdown. It wasn't just the distance, it was the manner in which he covered it that made it a ridiculously good run.

First of all, it looked like he'd get tackled for a loss as soon as he touched the ball. But he somehow broke free of the tackle. Then he juked two defenders near the line of scrommage to get past the initial wave of tacklers. Then he darted to his right, then back to his left then woooosh, he was gone.

Oaks Chjristian is going to come out ready to crush Oak Park in the second half.

The score is 28-7. Oaks Christian is in control. The Lions could play second stringers the entire second half and still win.

But here is the thing. QB Jimmy Clausen was livid as he left the field. Judging by his body language, he's upset at how sloppy he and the Lions played through the first two quarters. They were called for three delay of game penalities, and on the last one Clausen was visibly upset. A few secvonds later the half ended and Clausen stormed off the field.

You know what? I like it. Why? Because this kid strives for perfection. Nothing wrong with that, if you ask me.

Most guys are content leaving the field with a 28-7 halftime lead.

Not Clausen. It's not the score he's worried about, it's how his team played.

Something tells me he's in the locker room telling his teammates a similar effort isn't acceptable.

And the thing is, Oask Christian isn't really on top of its game. The Lions are just so good, they can play sloppy and still dominate. That's a scary thought for opponents.

Oak Park had stolen some momentum with a long touchdown drive to cut the lead to 14-7, Mark tyler stole it right back.

OK, lets back track. Oak Park drove 80 yards in six plays, getting 2-yard touchdown run by Kyle Shorten with fours second left in the first quarter. The crowd was going nuts, the Oak Park sideline reacted as if they just won the Super Bowl.

But the ensuing kick-off sailed into the end zone, leaving Oaks Christian four seconds. That's when Tyler went to work, busting up the middle, then darting to the sideline, then running right past Oak Park for an 80-yard touchdown run to make it 21-7.

Tyler has 131 yards on four carries. Jimmy Clausen is 7 for 9 for 120 yards.

Weird first quarter, only because Oaks Christian actually looked a little sloppy while getting called for two delay of game penalties. One contributed to the Lions only stalled drive of the game. Otherwise it's business as usual. Oaks Christian has gone up and down the field twice for touchdowns.

You know what Oak Park-Oaks Christian is? It's like living between two neighbors who hate each other, and are always trying to one up each other. After awhile you're going to get dragged into it somehow. You hope to stay above the fray, not take sides, but no matter how hard you try, you're eventually going to be in the middle.

Anyway, word on the street is Oaks Christian has something special in store. They way the Lions see it, they owe the Eages 40 points for last year's game that got canceled, and 40 points for this year. So don't be surprised by an 80-0 game.

Oh by the way, less than two minutes into the game Oaks Chritian leads 7-0.

LA36 has jumped into the college sports market. The channel is airing UCLA women's volleyball this year with Randy Rosenbloom on play-by-play and Dave Marcus on color.

Last week's match against Cal will air several more times this week.

Thursday, 8 p.m
Friday, 2:30 pm. and 8
Saturday, 3:30 p.m and 8

It's only fall ball, but Ohio State has to be pretty happy with the early-season performances of freshmen Megan Miller (El Camino Real) and Samantha Marder (Calabasas).

Marder led the Buckeyes in hitting (13 for 20) in five vicoties at the College Fall Classic in North Lewisberg, Ohio last week. Miller was the Pitching MVP of the tournament.

Both were two-time Daily News First Team All-Area selections.

Birmingham wins easily, 35-18.

And it really wasn't that close.

I don't mind some music during a game. But this place has literally turned into a dance club over the last two minutes, complete with a very annoying female D.J. who simply won't shut up.

There is a football game going on!

It's an across the board type thing, too. In years past the margin defining which team was better was razor thin. But not anymore. Birmingham is the better team, by far.

As I wirte that Willie Chandler just scored on a 50-yard touchdown pass to make it 35-6.

Knox has 225 yards rushing, his best performance of his career.

And we're still in the third quarter.

To open the second half. It's his third kick-off return for a TD this year. 22-0 Birmingham

16-0 at the half.

Wow, what a run. He went 55 yards, breaking through a last-ditch tackle attempt by Malcolm Smith then diving the final four yards into the end zone.

Birmingham, 14-0.

Knox has 202 yards on 16 carries.

He's headed to 300, at least.

It's either a three-and-out or a punt. Meanwhile, Birmingham is riding Milton Knox hard. And why not? He's breaking off 10, 12, 20 yard gains everytime he touches the ball.

Taft DB Deskin Goodwin intercetped Birmingham QB James Beloff on a great play. Unfortuntaley he was ruled down inside the Taft 3-yard line. Two plays later Taft QB Exavier Johnson overthrew his receiver right into the hands of Birmingham DB Willie Chandler, who jogged the six yards for a touchdown. Birmingham is leading, 8-0.

The rain has subsided, but the field is still went and it shows. Birmingham fumbled a few plays after Knox's long run. But Taft gained exactly five yards and punted away.

But Milton Knox just went 40 yards on a nice run. Birmingham has the ball on the Taft 20-yard line.

Slick field, wet ball.

Not a good combination.

We've already had a fumble, a ball slip through the hands of a wide receiver and two running backs flat out slip.

The team that makes the adjustment to the conditions wins tonight.

Just to add to the crazy atmosphere.

By the way, good news for the Malcolm Smith fans in the house: He's going to play for the first time since week one. The ankle injury he suffered four weeks ago is still bothering him, but he's expected to play linebacker and see limited action on offense.

Of course, now that its raining that plan might change.

OK, Ok, not the real Michael Jackson. Just someone dressed up like him during Birmiingham homecoming festivities. Looking very much like the Golved One, too.

It's crazy here. I mean it's always way over the top when Birmingham and Taft hook up. But as an added bonus tonight just happens to be Homecoming night. To say this place is a madhouse would be an understatement. Between the music and the dancing in the stands, I feel like I'm at a club, not a high school football game.

But it's all good.

Lets just hope the game matches the show in the stands. Kick-off is in 45 minutes.

Notre Dame offensive lineman Sam DeMartinis has narrowed his college options to Cal and Arizona State.

"I have kind of narrowed it down to Arizona State and Cal,'' the 6-foot-6 senior told Rivals.com.``Those are pretty close to home and I feel that my family can come and see me," he commented. "Cal is one of the best universities in the nation, their academics are great and also their football team is doing pretty well too.

What a terrific showcase tonight should be for Canyon’s J.J. DiLuigi and Hart’s Delano Howell, two of California’s top running backs who go head to head in the Foothill League opener at 7:30 tonight at College of the Canyons.

Howell already has scored 20 touchdowns in six games, chasing DiLuigi’s 2005 league record of 43. DiLuigi, who rushed for nearly 1,900 yards last season, is again solid this year with 658 yards, 17 receptions and eight touchdowns; Howell has 716 yards and 22 receptions, and he’s also averaging 50 yards per kick return, including a 95-yard touchdown.

Both figure to be on the run in a big way tonight, and there’s a good chance the top performer can lead his team to victory, as Hart (3-3) looks to end a three-game series losing streak to Canyon (3-2), which defeated the Indians 21-13 in December in the Southern Section Div. II championship in Carson.

Howell and DiLuigi are very fast breakaway types who combine open-field speed with impressive strength and power.

There are a lot more similarities than differences.

“They have different styles but they’re similar, too. They both good players,� Hart quarterback Alex Pettee said. “There’s going to be big attention on both running backs during the game.�

Who’s better? Perhaps tonight will be the test.

“I’m not comparing myself to anybody,� Howell said. “I just run hard and try to keep my legs moving and just use the ability that God gave me.�

Canyon linebacker Blake McMartin admitted that stopping Howell is part of the game plan.

“Oh, it’s a big part,� McMartin said. “He’s a key player and a real good athlete.�

Naturally, their teammates favored their own.

“Watching films, Howell looks like a real good runner, but honestly I think J.J. is a lot tougher,� Canyon offensive lineman Marc Valdez said. “J.J. runs over people, and I haven’t seen Delano do that.�

Hart receiver/defensive back Brandon Arndt likes Howell.

“He’s amazing. He can do anything, play any position,� Arndt said. “J.J. was good last year, and he looks just as good this year, but I wouldn’t want any other running back on my team. I’d want Delano.�

Top running backs J.J. DiLuigi of Canyon and Delano Howell of Hart go head to head tonight at College of the Canyons. Here’s how they compare:

Delano Howell, Hart

(661) 257-5218

You remember Matt Harrington? Before there was a Luke Hochevar or a Jered Weaver, there was Matt Harrington. In 2000, the Rockies drafted the hard-throwing right-hander from Palmdale No. 7 overall and offered a 3.7 million dollar signing bonus, which he turned down. Since then, he was drafted and re-drafted four more times. Each time in a lower round, with less money.

Well, it looks as if Harrington's earned another shot, signing a free agent contract with the Cubs. According to a Baseball America report, Harrington shed 30 pounds and worked his once 97-mph fastball back into the 90s to earn his shot.

For more:
http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/minors/news/262616.html
http://www.dailynews.com/sports/ci_4479148

A lot of people having been asking why Loyola is struggling in the early part of the season. First off, this is nothing new. The Cubs had to win a coin flip to make the Division I playoffs last season and ended up winning it all. Second, they've played some pretty good competition this year. The loss to Venice may have looked ugly at first, but anyone who saw the Gondoliers play Oaks Christian a couple of weeks ago, knows that Venice is no joke this year.

After seeing Loyola last week, it seems like its biggest problem is consistency at the quarterback position. The Cubs have played musical chairs with their QBs this year and no one seems to be grabbing the last chair.

Conor Hearn -- a transfer from coach Jeff Kearin's old school, Brophy Prep in Phoenix-- started Friday's loss to Hart on the basis of his second-half performance in the previous week's victory over Dominguez of Compton. Hearn started off well, but lost his touch and came out at halftime after throwing two-first half picks.

Kelly O'Brien, the son of former Jets' QB Ken O'Brien, came in for the second half and played well (10 of 14 for 85 yards and 2 TDs), but the Cubs had dug themselves too big of a hole in the first half.

Look for O'Brien to get the start next week at Alemany of Mission Hills. We'll have to wait and see if he grabs the last chair.

After Friday’s Moorpark vs. Thousand Oaks game, I have watched Moorpark’s Darrell Scott and Oaks Christian of Westlake Village’s Marc Tyler from the sidelines twice this year.

I came away very impressed each time, and believe they are both potential Division I stars, but there is no question who the best back in the area is.

Tyler, who has committed to USC, has the best field vision I’ve ever seen from high school football player. Oaks Christian’s Jimmy Clausen is the top-ranked senior in the nation, but Tyler would be my pick.

His cutting ability is phenomenal. He is an intelligent football player, and us newspaper guys love him because he is not afraid to speak his mind. The only knock on him – and this could prove to be a big one in college – is he lacks top-tier breakaway speed.

Scott, on the other hand, is faster and stronger than Tyler. I watched him take over last night against Thousand Oaks to finish with 277 yards and four touchdowns on 33 carries in Moorpark’s come-from-behind victory.

There was one play early in the fourth quarter where Scott ran over six Thousand Oaks defenders like they we bowling pins for a game-changing 40-yard touchdown. I’d compare Scott’s punishing running style to Jamal Lewis, while Tyler is more in the mold of Marshall Faulk.

Keep in mind that Scott has clocked a 10.66 in the 100-meter dash despite his 6-foot-1, 205-pound frame.

It’s scary to think what will happen next season when Scott, a junior, has another year under his belt. He already has Division I offers from 16 schools including USC and Michigan, but the Florida native may be defecting to his home state with the USC backfield already loaded with young talent.

The other two backs I have been most impressed with this year are Birmingham of Lake Balboa junior Milton Knox Jr. and Grant of Van Nuys senior Fred Winborn.

I’m glad I don’t have to tackle any of those guys.

Notre Dame wins 24-21.

But come on, who gave Valencia any shot to be that close?

Notre Dame moves to 5-0.

Valencia falls to 1-5.

But the Vikings take a lot from this game. Short of winning, this is exactly what they need to build on going into Foothill League play next week.

With an interception with 1:06 remaining to pretty much put this game away.

It just closed ever so much on a 21-yard field goal by Erik Folk to give Notre Dame a 24-21 lead with 2:32 remaining.

But it should have been more. Notre Dame drove to the Valencia 3-yard line, but couldn't close the touchdown deal on three straight plays.

The Kights settled for the field goal.

Valencia has plenty of time to win this game.

Yes, you read that right. Notre Dame punter Mike Stanton just put one off the side of his foot and it fell harmlessly out of bounds.

At his own 26-yard line.

Valencia immediately turned it into a 26-yard touchdown pass from Graham Wilbert to Sean Mulligan.

We're tied 21-21 early in the fourth quarter.

How about that feeling of mine?

But if you're a Vikings' fan you've got to be worried right now.

Notre Dame's leaving the door wide open, but the Vikings simply can't take advantage.

Notre Dame's defense is the reason. The Knights have sacked Graham Wilbert six times.

He literally has no time to set up, let alone go through his reads and find an open receiver.

...One of the best interceptions I've ever seen.

Valencia's Shane Vereen seemed to be beaten on a long pass. But somehow, someway, Vereen made up three yards in the blink of an eye to catch up with the Notre Dame receiver. Just as the ball arrived Vereen leaped up, extended himself, and stole the ball for a spectacular pick.

Unfortunately the Vikings weren't able to take advantage. Notre Dame sacked Graham Wilbert twice, then forced an incomplete pass.

The Knights are back on the move, driving to the Valencia 30-yard line.

He just threw an interception to give Notre Dame the ball at the 15-yard line. The Knights immediately turned it into a short touchdown run by Shane Horton to give Notre Dame a 21-14 lead.

It was just an ill-advised pass, under pressure deep in his own territory. No doubt he'd love to have back. But he's a junior, he'll learn from that mistake and next time he'll either eat the ball or throw it away.

Is all about the Tigers beating the Yankees in the ALDS.

Specifically the contributions _ or lack _ of Alex Rodriguez and Randy Johnson.

KHTS-AM broadcaster Tony Moskal, who is doing color on the radio broadcast tonight, is a diehard Yankees fan and I can't tell you how mad he is at A-Rod and the Unit right about now.

To paraphrase, Moskal says Johnson and A-Rod aren't true Yankees, and never will be.

You know what?

I totally agree.

Is all about the Tigers beating the Yankees in the ALDS.

Specifically the contributions _ or lack _ of Alex Rodriguez and Randy Johnson.

KHTS-AM broadcaster Tony Moskal, who is doing color on the radio broadcast tonight, is a diehard Yankees fan and I can't tell you how mad he is at A-Rod and the Unit right about now.

To paraphrase, Moskal says Johnson and A-Rod aren't true Yankees, and never will be.

You know what?

I totally agree.

Notre Dame answered back empatically, tying the game 14-14 on a 20-yard touchdown pass from Shane Horton to Ben Bruneau.

The drive took 40 seconds.

We're at halftime.

Valencia gets the ball to start the third.

What a run by Shane Vereen. He just outran the entire Notre Dame defense on a spectacular 71-yard touchdown run, using a very Reggie Bush like cutback at the Notre Dame 30-yard line to pick up the final yardage for the score.

Those are the kind of plays you need in an upset bid. And with a 14-7 lead, the Vikings are very much on pace for a huge, surprising win.

That weird feeling of mine is getting more and more weird, if that makes any sense.

Notre Dame QB Shane Horton just threw a laser to wide receiver Mike Stanton on a 7-yard slant pass for an easy touchdown.

Stanton is such a mismtach for most high school DB's. He' every bit of 6-foot-5, and a rock soild 215 pounds. On the touchdown pass he was paired up against 6-0 corner Marlon Pollard, a sophomore.

Pollard looks like he's going to be a good player, but right now he's not ready to stop a guy like Stanton.

The Knights stuffed Valencia on three straight posessions, using their superior speed and strength up front to continually harrass QB Graham Wilbert in hurried throws.

Now the Knights' offense is on the move, sticking to their strength: Running the ball.

Meanwhile, the Vikings offense is starting to show signs of fatigue.

I really like Notre Dame running back Thaddeus Brown. He's a nice mixture of speed and power. He's been the workhorse on the current drive. Notre Dame has a first-and-goal at the Vikings' 8-yard line.

Valencia leading 7-0.

Notre Dame looks a step slow tonight, almost like the Knights overlooked Valencia a little bit.

That's very, very unlike a Kevin Rooney team, and I doubt it lasts much longer.

Give the Vikings credit, though. They stole momentum away from Notre Dame by forcing that punt of the first drive, then marching down the field on that 90-yard touchdown drive.

But the final result was a touchdown by Shane Vereen and a surprising 7-0 lead for Valencia.

Maybe my weird feeling wasn't so weird afterall.

It was a pretty drive, but extremely efficient. The Vikings marched 90 yards on 18 plays by mixing a handful of Vereen runs with some short, crisp pases by Graham Wilbert.

Notre Dame stopped the Vikings on three runs at the 1-yard line, but Valencia finally pused it across the end zone on fourth down.

Meanwhile, Notre Dame QB Shane Horton just coughed the ball up on a fumble, and the Vikings have the ball back.

After a 35-yard run by Thaddeus Brown on the first play, the Knights threw the ball two of the next three plays for no gain.

They had to punt the ball away as a result.

My thing is, after busting a 35-yard run I'd just keep running the ball until somebody stopped me. Instead Notre Dame went away from its strength and winds up giving away possession.

Meanwhile, the Vikings have notched two first downs and have taken the ball to the 35-yard line.

You're probably wondering why I'm at this game, right? By every measure this is a mismatch. Notre Dame is 4-0, solid as usual and already talking about winning another Section championship.

Valencia is 1-4 and hasn't stopped anyone defensively in weeks.

Likely, this game will be decided by halftime.

Hold on.

I really, really have a weird feeling that Valenica gets back on track tonight.

OK, so maybe it's just that big, bright full moon overhead.

OK, you might be asking yourself why I chose this game to watch tonight. Looks like a total mismatch, right? Notre Dame is 4-0, solid as usual and already talking about winning another Section Championship.

Valencia is 1-4 and hasn't stopped anybody defensively in weeks.

By all measuring sticks, there is no way the Vikings belong on the same field.

I know, I know.

But for some off, unexplainable reason I have a really weird feeling Valencia is finally going to get back on track.

OK, maybe it's just the effects of that big, bright, full moon overhead.

Now, by no means do I condone betting on prep football.

But there are apparently those out there who would disagree.

On the Jamaica-based Web site www.thegreek.com, this Saturday's nationally televised showdown between De La Salle of Concord and Mission Viejo is listed as a $200-limit betting line.

De La Salle, the top-ranked team in the nation by USA Today, is favored by ten points at home against the Diablos.

The site must know something that I don't know, because Mission Viejo rolls over in the first half by my estimation.

For some reason, football teams from Orange County seem to be drastically overrated this year.

Mission Viejo and No. 21 Mater Dei are both fine teams, but they're nowhere near as talented as De La Salle and No. 8 Oaks Christian of Westlake Village.

My prediction for the big game:

De La Salle 54,
Mission Viejo 17

Kevin Connelly
kevin.connelly@dailynews.com

The debate over Oaks Christian's place in the state and national polls has been raging on internet message boards ever since the Lions' demolished St. Bonaventure two weeks ago. The Lions moved up in just about every poll after thei impressive showings against St. Bonaventure and Venice, but not ahead of traditional powers like Concord De La Salle, Southlake Carroll (Tx.) or Hoover (Birminghma, Ala.). Saturday, all those Oaks' supporters will get a good look at the other guys as De La Salle, USA Today's new No. 1 team, hosts Mission Viejo in a nationally televised game on ESPN2.

It was touch and go last week for Canyon High football support staff members Cecil Hammock and Ric Bailey, both hospitalized with serious injuries before making a comeback just in time for Canyon’s 49-32 victory Friday over Chaminade of West Hills.

Hammock, 53, was taken by ambulance to the hospital because of severe chest pains, though it turned out he did not have a heart attack as originally feared. Bailey, 42, temporarily lost 75 percent of his sight, and his blood-sugar level fell to an alarming level because of symptoms related to diabetes, but like Hammock he bounced back just in time for Friday’s kickoff.

“I had three episodes of chest pains and spent two days in the hospital, and believe me I was happy when I left,� said Hammock, who works as a team photographer and press-box assistant. “I just praise god that everything came back to normal. I’m good because of the prayers that people were praying for me.�

Hammock isn’t through with doctors and hospitals. He’s scheduled to undergo back surgery next week for the second time, but he’s hoping to be back on his feet as soon as possible.

Bailey, a former Saugus running back who helps manage Canyon’s sideline during games and also performs various team duties, said he feels like a new man.

“I just wasn’t taking good care of myself but it’s all good now,� Bailey said. “I was scared because I couldn’t see a thing for a week. I was blind.�

-- While Canyon running back J.J. DiLuigi enjoyed another breakout performance with 279 yards rushing and four touchdowns Friday against Chaminade, it’s quickly becoming apparent who the school’s next star running back will be.

Look no further than freshman phenom Antonio Bray, a blazing 5-foot-7, 150-pounder who has scored nine touchdowns in four JV games – including four against Chaminade -- while playing with sophomore teammates a year older than him.

“He’s marvelous,� varsity coach Harry Welch said. “Antonio Bray is not just going to be a good running back, he’s going to be great.�

Bray earned quite a reputation in youth-football circles through the years, rushing for 1,500 yards with 20 touchdowns as an eighth-grader.

-- In more Canyon news, keep an eye on prized basketball prospect Cody Anderson, a 6-foot-8 junior who has grown three inches from last season, when he averaged 18 points and 12 rebounds for the JV team.

Anderson, who wears size-15 shoes, said he’s still growing. He could eventually be 7-foot like some of his relatives, he said.

“I didn’t play varsity last year because I was still developing my skills, but I’m doing a lot better,� Anderson said.

-- Down in the dumps after losing three of its first four football games, Hart got just what it needed Friday in a 55-6 rout over visiting Antelope Valley, jumping to a 49-point halftime lead to allow the reserves to play the entire second half.

“Everybody was happy because this brought up our team morale,� said Brandon Arndt, a starting receiver and defensive back who called it a night after two quarters. “For everyone to play, it’s fantastic even if it’s just two plays. They love that compared to standing on the sideline.�

-- Daniel Jose, a 15-year-old from West Ranch High, is quickly making a name for himself in the paintball world, competing with teammates Jason Belling, 15, from West Ranch, and Matt Thompson, 15, from Hart, in a large-scale, 150-team tournament in Acton through today.

“Paintball is fun. It’s really something I like to do,� Jose said. “We play seven-on-seven, and it’s challenging because you’ve got to move around a lot and communicate with each other.�

Gerry Gittelson’s column appears in the Daily News three times a week. He can be reached at (661) 257-5218 or gerry.gittelson@dailynews.com.