Preps of the Week
Boys
Michael Julian, York boys cross country: Ran off with his second Cypress Division Center Meet title, covering a sandy and hilly 3.01 mile loop in 16:07.
Honorable mention: Reed Lloyd, Carmel water polo; Kefu Leander, Seaside football; Leo Del Toro, York water polo; Blake Moore, Pacific Grove football; Mario Avila, King City cross country; Carl Richardson, Salinas football; Josh Elmore, Monterey football; Nathan Medina, Greenfield football; Jose DeLeon, Gonzales football; Ricardo Diaz, King City cross country; Frank Rocha, Alvarez football; Luis Velazquez, Alisal cross country; Allan Buirrete, North Salinas football; Mike Brindle, Stevenson football; Will Stefanou, Pacific Grove cross country; J.T. Byrne, Carmel football.
Girls
Eva Prewitt, Trinity volleyball: Recorded 15 kills and 16 digs in one match, and had 21 kills, eight digs and two aces in another, helping the Warriors to a pair of wins.
Honorable mention: Georgina Burton, Santa Catalina water polo; Kailey Clymo, Stevenson field hockey; Kylee Moore, Salinas volleyball; Illiana Baldwin, North Salinas field hockey; Elle Mitchell, Monterey volleyball; Samatha Montelongo, Alisal volleyball; Kate Morgan, Stevenson water polo; Xam Calugas, Stevenson golf; Bianca Alvarez, Greenfield field hockey; Laura Vetter, Notre Dame volleyball; Aaliyah Foster, Alvarez volleyball; Summer Sebok, Pacific Grove volleyball; Makayla Chassion, Salinas tennis; Ashley Rocha, Gonzales cross country; Stephanie Lopez, North Salinas cross country; Giselle Cortino, Soledad volleyball.
College Athlete of the Week
Daniela Salazar, Hartnell women's cross country: Finished second overall, helping the Panthers set a NorCal Preview Meet record low 17 points in defending their title.
Honorable mention: Walmer Martinez, CSUMB men's soccer; Sophia Torres, CSUMB volleyball; Isabelle Torres, Hartnell women's cross country; Jenna Tobin, CSUMB volleyball; Isaac Gensel, Hartnell men's cross country; Julian Madrigal, MPC football; Joel Gomez, Hartnell football; Michael Fitzgerald, MPC football; Robbie Sana Ana, Hartnell football.
Preps of the Week
Boys
Brayan Salazar, Seaside football: The kicker sent a ball through the uprights with two seconds left, lifting the Spartans to a 23-20 win over Monterey in the Battle of the Bay.
Honorable mention: Damien Mejia, Soledad football; Luca Bozzo, Stevenson water polo; Michael Julian, York cross country; Anthony Villegas, Palma football; Mario Avila, King City cross country; Carl Richardson, Salinas football; Nathaniel Pettas, Monterey water polo; Jonah Mendez, King City football; Antonio Chiquito, Greenfield football; Michael Barrera, Marina football; Sergio Anayla, North County football; Josh Elmore, Monterey football; Dakota Mornhinweg, Carmel football. Dylan Santos, Stevenson football; Will Stefanou, Pacific Grove cross country;
Girls
Giselle Cortina, Soledad volleyball: Compiled 44 assists, nine digs, seven blocks and three aces in one match, and 32 assists, five digs, four aces and two blocks in another.
Honorable mention: Aria Adams, Monterey volleyball; Emma Crabbe, Carmel volleyball; Giselle Cortina, Soledad volleyball; Samantha Reich, Salinas water polo; Jordyn Pascone, North Salinas volleyball; Alanah Gordon, Salinas volleyball; Coleen Diaz, North Salinas tennis; Jazmin Useda, Gonzales volleyball; April Vogelpohl, Trinity volleyball; Makayla Chassion, Salinas tennis; Sydney Hill, Pacific Grove water polo; Makenzi Laporte, Salinas golf; Callie Chen, Stevenson golf; Caroline Coen, Pacific Grove cross country; Yesenia Tijerina, Alisal volleyball; Rachel Suess, Trinity cross country.
College Athlete of the Week
David Hawkins, MPC football: Recorded nine tackles, including a sack as the Lobos improved to 5-0 with a win over Yuba
Honorable mention: Elis Svard, CSUMB men's golf; Fabiola Abonce, MPC women's cross country; Daniela Salazar, Hartnell women's cross country; Jesus Avalos, Hartnell men's cross country; Jenna Tobin, CSUMB volleyball; Brooke Roy, CSUMB women's cross country; Chris Plascencia, CSUMB men's cross country; Aixa Crespo, Hartnell volleyball; Julian Madrigal, MPC football.
Oct. 21 Preps of the Week
Boys
Nate Miglaw, Carmel water polo: Tied a single-game school record at Carmel with 11 goals in a win over Monterey, and added eight more goals in a decision over Palma.
Honorable mention: Luca Zaninovich, Stevenson water polo; Will Stefanou, Pacific Grove cross country; Maria Avila, King City cross country; Michael Julian, York cross country; Nick Furman, Trinity football; Treyvon Campbell, Seaside football; Antonio Chiquito, Greenfield football; Ritchie Urquidez, Soledad football; Frankie Cisneros, Gonzales football; Brandon Ducusin, North County football; Jon Jon Berring, Palma football; Jeff Shaffer, Salinas football; J.T. Byrne, Carmel football; Benny Chuca, Alisal football.
Girls
Timbre Dawson, Monterey volleyball: Compiled 18 kills and six blocks in one match, and added 14 kills in a three game sweep in another for the Toreadores.
Honorable mention: Rachel Allen, Stevenson tennis; Sofia Camacho, North Salinas cross country; Makenzi Laporte, Salinas golf; Allysa Nguyen, North Salinas tennis; Molly Momberger, Pacific Grove water polo; Iliana Baldwin, North Salinas field hockey; Anna Yeh, Santa Catalina volleyball; Carla Hanna, Monterey water polo; Callie Chen, Stevenson golf; Maria Ochoa, Alisal volleyball; Logan Riggenbach, Notre Dame volleyball; Bryanna Perez, Gonzales volleyball; Karoline Ruiz, Carmel volleyball; Molly Bufkin, Stevenson field hockey; Eva Prewitt, Trinity volleyball; Giselle Cortina, Soledad volleyball; Lauren Pritchard, Carmel water polo.
College Athlete of the Week
Sierra Levy, CSUMB women's soccer: Scored two goals, helping the Otters blank San Francisco State.
Oct. 28
Preps of the Week
Boys
Michael Barrera, Marina football: Threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns, and kicked a pair of field goals in the Mariners first win of the season.
Honorable mention: Nathaniel Pettas, Monterey water polo; Dylan Santos, Stevenson football; Jackson Ortiz, Monterey football; Jaycob Olivas, Soledad football; Zach Brady, Carmel water polo; David Maciel, Alisal football; Anthony Villegas, Palma football; Braden Arriaga-Lopez, Alvarez football; Isaiah Orozco, North Salinas football; Blake Moore, Pacific Grove football; Jose DeLeon, Gonzales football.
.Girls
Brenna Ozel, Carmel golf: Was medalist at the Gabilan Division championships, shooting 3-over 73 for the Padres.
Honorable mention: Kailey Clymo, Stevenson field hockey; Emma Crabb, Carmel volleyball; Jess Clements, Santa Catalina volleyball; Samantha Reich, Salinas water polo; Samantha Montelongo, Alisal volleyball; Makenzi Laporte, Salinas golf; Madisyn Schweitzer, Gonzales volleyball; Kylee Moore, Salinas volleyball; Sydney Craven, Stevenson golf; Georgina Burton, Santa Catalina water polo; Iliana Baldwin, North Salinas field hockey; Logan Riggenbach, Notre Dame volleyball; Laura Vetter, Notre Dame water polo.
College Athlete of the Week
Carly Lowi, Hartnell women's soccer: The conference leaders in goals, assists and points added two more goals and an assist in the Panthers win.
Honorable mention: Jacob Streeter, Hartnell football; Elis Svard, CSUMB men's golf; Alexandra Diaz, CSUMB women's soccer; Hunter Raquet, MPC football; David Freeman, Hartnell football; Dacian Sullivan, MPC football; Robert Brown, Hartnell football; Zachary Nobmann, MPC football.
Nov. 4
Prep of the Week
Boys
Anthony Villegas, Palma football: Rushed for 318 yards and four touchdowns, with 229 of his yards coming on those touchdowns in the Chieftains 45-38 win over Aptos.
Honorable mention: Frank Rocha, Alvarez football; Masao Gonzalez, Pacific Grove water polo; Michael Jilian, York cross country; Nathaniel Pettas, Monterey water polo; Mario Avila, King City cross country; Patrick Powers, Stevenson water polo; Kevin Daliri, York water polo; Cade Smith, Salinas football; Michael Barrera, Marina football; Connor Cosand, Stevenson football; Jose DeLeon, Gonzales football; Devin Morales, King City football; Josh Elmore, Monterey football; Treyvon Campbell, Seaside football; Parker McAnally, Pacific Grove football; Ricardo Diaz, King City cross country; Moises Benito, Palma cross country.
Honorable mention: Frank Rocha, Alvarez football; Masao Gonzalez, Pacific Grove water polo; Michael Jilian, York cross country; Nathaniel Pettas, Monterey water polo; Mario Avila, King City cross country; Patrick Powers, Stevenson water polo; Kevin Daliri, York water polo; Cade Smith, Salinas football; Michael Barrera, Marina football; Connor Cosand, Stevenson football; Jose DeLeon, Gonzales football; Devin Morales, King City football; Josh Elmore, Monterey football; Treyvon Campbell, Seaside football; Parker McAnally, Pacific Grove football; Ricardo Diaz, King City cross country; Moises Benito, Palma cross country.
Girls
Cherling Padilla, North Salinas cross country: Finished second at the Gabilan Division finals, helping the Vikings to a team league title for the second straight year.
College Athlete of the Week
Hunter Raquet, MPC football: Tossed four touchdown passes, propelling the 8-0 Lobos to a 38-28 win over Hartnell.
Honorable mention: Elis Svard, CSUMB men's golf; Dacian Sullivan, MPC football; Isabel Carpenter, CSUMB women's golf; Daniela Salazar, Hartnell women's cross country; Sophia Torres, CSUMB volleyball; Jesus Avalos, Hartnell men's cross country; Mohanid Adam, MPC men's basketball; Isaac Gensel, Hartnell men's cross country; Jenna Tobin, CSUMB volleyball; Shantal Martinez, Hartnell women's cross country; Isaiah Randall, Hartnell football; Darius Scott, MPC men's basketball; Daniel Lomeli, CSUMB men's soccer; Jacob Streeter, Hartnell football.
Honorable mention: Elis Svard, CSUMB men's golf; Dacian Sullivan, MPC football; Isabel Carpenter, CSUMB women's golf; Daniela Salazar, Hartnell women's cross country; Sophia Torres, CSUMB volleyball; Jesus Avalos, Hartnell men's cross country; Mohanid Adam, MPC men's basketball; Isaac Gensel, Hartnell men's cross country; Jenna Tobin, CSUMB volleyball; Shantal Martinez, Hartnell women's cross country; Isaiah Randall, Hartnell football; Darius Scott, MPC men's basketball; Daniel Lomeli, CSUMB men's soccer; Jacob Streeter, Hartnell football.
Boys
Carl Richardson, Salinas: Broke the single-season school record for touchdowns, tossing five, while catching one as well in a 42-28 title clinching win at Aptos.
Honorable mention: Michael Barrera, Marina football; Anthony Villegas, Palma football, Anthony DaSilva, Pacific Grove football; Jonah Mendez, King City football; Frankie Cisneros, Gonzales football; Benny Chuca, Alisal football; Austin Villanueva, Salinas football; Drew Aber, Carmel water polo; Frank Rocha, Alvarez football; Dylan Santos, Stevenson football; Kefu Leander, Seaside football.
.
Girls
Makayla and Anna Chassion, Salinas: The sisters combined to capture the PCAL doubles title and advance to the Central Coast Section doubles tournament.Honorable mention: Kate Morgan, Stevenson water polo; Emma Crabbe, Carmel volleyball; Vera Garcia, Notre Dame tennis; Alanah Gordon, Salinas volleyball; Giselle Corina, Soledad volleyball; Karoline Ruiz, Carmel volleyball; Gabby Nannie, Monterey volleyball; Juliana Aliotti, Pacific Grove volleyball; Samantha Montelongo, Alisal volleyball; Isabelle Manzanero, Salinas tennis.
College Athlete of the Week
Tenisha Hill, MPC women's basketball: Had 24 points and 19 rebounds in one game, 17 points and 20 rebounds in another, and nine points in three games for the Lobos.
Honorable mention: David Freeman, Hartnell football; Walmer Martinez, CSUMB men's soccer; Daniela Salazar, Hartnell women's cross country; DeMarcus Hawkins, Hartnell football; Jesus Avalos, Hartnell men's cross country; Mohanid Adam, MPC men's basketball; Sophia Torres, CSUMB volleyball; Shantel Martinez, Hartnell women's cross country; Isaac Gensel, Hartnell men's cross country; Jahvon Johnson, CSUMB men's basketball; Darius Scott, MPC men's basketball; Chris Plascencia, CSUMB men's cross country; Montez Swann, Hartnell men's basketball; Nathalie Vaughn, CSUMB women's cross country; Daniel Bost, Hartnell men's basketball; Dacian Sullivan, MPC football; Evans Charles, MPC football; Jasmine Safarians, CSUMB women's soccer.
Water Polo
Boys
1. Stevenson:
2. Carmel:
3. Christopher:
4. Gilroy:
5. San Benito:
On the bubble: Palma, York, Monterey
Girls
1. Stevenson:
2. Gilroy:
3. Christopher:
4. Salinas:
2. Gilroy:
3. Christopher:
4. Salinas:
5. Carmel:
On the bubble: San Benito, Notre Dame, Pacific Grove.
Boys cross country rankings
1. King City:
2. Pacific Grove:
3. San Benito:
4. Alisal:
5. Salinas:
6. Palma:
7. Greenfield:
3. San Benito:
4. Alisal:
5. Salinas:
6. Palma:
7. Greenfield:
8. Alvarez:
9. Marina:
10. North County:
On the bubble: Gilroy, Carmel, Monte Vista, St. Francis.
9. Marina:
10. North County:
On the bubble: Gilroy, Carmel, Monte Vista, St. Francis.
Girls cross country
1. North Salinas:
2. Gilroy:
2. Gilroy:
3. San Benito:
4. Salinas:
5. Alisal:
6. Seaside:
7. Carmel:
8. Alvarez:
9. North County:
10. Greenfield:
4. Salinas:
5. Alisal:
6. Seaside:
7. Carmel:
8. Alvarez:
9. North County:
10. Greenfield:
On the bubble: Notre Dame, Soledad, Monterey, St. Francis.
Final golf rankings
1. Stevenson:
2. Carmel:
3. Santa Catalina:
4. Salinas:
5. Christopher:
On the bubble: San Benito, Alisal, North County.
Final field hockey rankings
1. Christopher:
2. Gilroy:
2. Gilroy:
3. Stevenson:
4. Notre Dame:
4. Notre Dame:
5. North Salinas:
On the bubble: Monterey, Salinas, Carmel, Greenfield.
Final tennis rankings
1. Salinas:
2. Santa Catalina:
3. Stevenson:
4. Pacific Grove:
5. Carmel:
6. Christopher:
7. North Salinas:
8. Notre Dame:
9. San Benito:
10. Gonzales:
On the bubble: Watsonville, Monte Vista, York
6. Christopher:
7. North Salinas:
8. Notre Dame:
9. San Benito:
10. Gonzales:
On the bubble: Watsonville, Monte Vista, York
Oct. 14
Football
1. Salinas: Is 18-1 in the Gabilan Division in the last three years.
2. Palma: Striving for more offensive balance going into the postseason.
3. Seaside:
4. San Benito:
5. Aptos:
6. Carmel:
7. Monte Vista:
8. Monterey:
9. Alvarez: Rough stretch for the Eagles in facing the Big 4 over four weeks.
10. North County: In the top 10 for the first time in nine years.
On the bubble: Soquel, Gonzales, Alisal, Soledad, Christopher.
Volleyball
1. Christopher: A 12 game improvement to date in the win column.
2. Salinas: Could be a dangerous team in the postseason if the chemistry units.
3. Carmel: Its only setbacks are to the two teams in front of them.
4. Alisal: Closing in on a Mission Division title and undefeated league season.
5. Monte Vista: Two straight wins has them back in the postseason chase.
6. Alvarez: Took undefeated Christopher to five sets before falling.
7. San Benito: Reeling with four consecutive losses for the first time in a decade.
7. Notre Dame: Can't seem to rediscover the magic that saw them beat Salinas.
9. Monterey: Only setbacks in the Mission Division have come from Alisal.
10. Soledad: Chasing its first league title and undefeated season in the Cypress.
On the bubble: Gilroy, Watsonville, Trinity, Pacific Grove, North Salinas.
Football
Football
1. Salinas: Is 18-1 in the Gabilan Division in the last three years.
2. Palma: Striving for more offensive balance going into the postseason.
3. Seaside: Another shutout for a defense that's put the team on its shoulders.
4. San Benito: Its final three games are against reigning league champions.
5. Aptos: Defending CCS DIII champions awarded a forfeit win last week.
6. Carmel: Struggling to stop the run in the Gabilan Division.
7. Monte Vista: Has won five consecutive games.
8. Soledad: Has outscored its last two opponents 43-0 in the second half.
9. Monterey: Two straight losses in the final seconds has crippled title hopes.
10. Alvarez: Offense has been stagnate in its last two games.
On the bubble: Alisal, Santa Cruz, North County, Soquel, Gonzales.
Volleyball
1. Christopher: Gabilan Division leaders have rattled off 11 straight wins.
2. Salinas: As the chemistry develops, the wins are piling up.
3. Carmel: A different looking team on the court when its roster is intact.
4. Alisal: Can clinch the Mission Division title Thursday with a win over Monterey.
5. San Benito: Regrouped last week with a pair of confidence building wins.
6. Monte Vista: Momentum slowed by two setbacks last week.
7. Alvarez: Has dropped a pair of five set matches in Gabilan Division play.
8. Monterey: Has quietly put itself in a position to make the playoffs.
9. Notre Dame: Fighting for survival with six consecutive losses.
10. Soledad: Has clinched no worse than a share of its first ever league title.
On the bubble: Gilroy, Santa Catalina, Watsonville, Trinity, Pacific Grove.
Nov. 4
Football
1. Salinas: Three league championships in three seasons under head coach Steve Zenk.
2. Palma: Rallied from a 14-point deficit to defeat Aptos for its fifth straight win.
3. Aptos: Can play the role of spoiler in its regular season finale against Salinas.
4. Carmel: Looking to build momentum for a Division IV playoff push.
5. Monte Vista: Unfinished business for the Mission Division champions
6. San Benito: Trying to avoid a three-game losing streak going into the playoffs.
7. Seaside: Can earn a share of the Mission Division title with a win at Monte Vista.
4. Carmel: Looking to build momentum for a Division IV playoff push.
5. Monte Vista: Unfinished business for the Mission Division champions
6. San Benito: Trying to avoid a three-game losing streak going into the playoffs.
7. Seaside: Can earn a share of the Mission Division title with a win at Monte Vista.
8. Soledad: A fifth straight playoff appearance lies in the balance.
9. Alisal: Finds itself in the same exact position as last year going into the season finale.
10. Alvarez: Can return to the postseason with a win over Carmel.
On the bubble: Monterey, Santa Cruz, Soquel, Gonzales, North County.
Volleyball
1. Christopher: Top seed in Division II went undefeated in the Gabilan
2. Salinas: Earned the No. 4 seed in the CCS Division I playoffs.
3. Carmel: In the postseason for the 10th consecutive year.
4. Alisal: Mission Division champions in the quarterfinals of the DI playoffs.
5. Alvarez: Ousted in the first round of the CCS Division I playoffs.
6. San Benito: Misses the postseason for the first time in nearly three decades.
7. Monterey: Won a play-in match to reach the CCS Division III playoffs.
8. Soledad: Goes into the playoffs riding a school record 21 game winning streak.
8. Soledad: Goes into the playoffs riding a school record 21 game winning streak.
9. Monte Vista: Could be ticketed for the Mission Division next fall.
10. Notre Dame: Elected not to petition for the playoffs. Seaside over.
On the bubble: Gilroy, Santa Catalina, North Salinas, Pacific Grove, Watsonville.
Nov. 11
Football
1. Salinas: Capped its second undefeated Gabilan Division season in three years.
2. Palma: Headed to the postseason a CCS record 36 straight years.
3. Aptos: Has won four out of the last five CCS Division III titles.
4. Alisal: Gigantic wins down the stretch propels them to first title since 2003.
5. Seaside: Shares the best overall record in the tri-region with Salinas at 9-1
6. Carmel: Dropped four of its last five on the field in the Gabilan Division.
7. San Benito: Limping into the playoffs with three straight losses.
8. Monte Vista: Triple overtime loss to Seaside snapped a six game winning streak
9. Alvarez: The most improved team in the area embraced the challenge.
4. Alisal: Gigantic wins down the stretch propels them to first title since 2003.
5. Seaside: Shares the best overall record in the tri-region with Salinas at 9-1
6. Carmel: Dropped four of its last five on the field in the Gabilan Division.
7. San Benito: Limping into the playoffs with three straight losses.
8. Monte Vista: Triple overtime loss to Seaside snapped a six game winning streak
9. Alvarez: The most improved team in the area embraced the challenge.
10. Soledad: Will miss the postseason for the first time in five years.
On the bubble: Santa Cruz, Soquel, Monterey, Gonzales, King City.
Volleyball
1. Christopher: CCS DII finalist earned a spot in the State NorCal tournament.
2. Salinas: Ousted in the quarterfinals of the CCS Division I playoffs.
3. Carmel: Fell in the semifinals of the CCS Division IV postseason.
4. Alisal: Knocked out in the quarterfinals of the CCS Division I playoffs.
5. Alvarez: Season over.
6. San Benito: Season over..
7. Monterey: Was in the CCS Division III quarterfinals for the first time in 10 years.
8. Soledad: School record season comes to an end in the CCS Division III quarterfinals.
9. Monte Vista: Season over.
10. Notre Dame: Season over.
On the bubble: Gilroy, Santa Catalina, North Salinas, Pacific Grove, Watsonville.
Preseason boys basketball rankings
1. Carmel:
2. Palma:
3. Monterey:
4. Salinas:
5. Alisal:
6. Pacific Grove:
7. Alvarez:
8. Christopher:
9. North County:
10. Stevenson:
On the bubble: St. Francis, Seaside, Pajaro Valley, Monte Vista, San Benito.
Preseason girls basketball rankings
1. North Salinas:
2. Salinas:
3. Seaside:
4. Monte Vista:
5. Notre Dame:
6. San Benito:
7. Alisal:
8. Christopher:
9. Gilroy:
10. St. Francis:
On the bubble: Carmel, Stevenson, Pacific Grove, Alvarez, North County.
Boys soccer
1. Watsonville:
2. Alisal:
3. Soledad:
4. Alvarez:
5. Monterey:
6. North County:
7. North Salinas:
8. Greenfield:
9. Salinas:
10. King City:
On the bubble: Gilroy, San Benito, Carmel, Pajaro Valley, Pacific Grove.
Girls soccer
1. San Benito:
2. Christopher:
3. Alisal:
4. Salinas:
5. Watsonville:
6. North County:
7. Alvarez:
8. North Salinas:
9. Monte Vista:
10. Stevenson:
On the bubble: Pacific Collegiate, Gilroy, Seaside, Soledad, Gonzales.
Boys soccer
1. Watsonville:
2. Alisal:
3. Soledad:
4. Alvarez:
5. Monterey:
6. North County:
7. North Salinas:
8. Greenfield:
9. Salinas:
10. King City:
On the bubble: Gilroy, San Benito, Carmel, Pajaro Valley, Pacific Grove.
Girls soccer
1. San Benito:
2. Christopher:
3. Alisal:
4. Salinas:
5. Watsonville:
6. North County:
7. Alvarez:
8. North Salinas:
9. Monte Vista:
10. Stevenson:
On the bubble: Pacific Collegiate, Gilroy, Seaside, Soledad, Gonzales.
Gabilan Division
x-Salinas (9-1), 7-0
Palma (8-2), 6-1
Aptos (5-5), 4-3
San Benito (5-5), 4-3
Alvarez (5-5), 3-4
Carmel (5-5), 3-4
Aptos (5-5), 4-3
San Benito (5-5), 4-3
Alvarez (5-5), 3-4
Carmel (5-5), 3-4
Christopher (1-9), 1-6
Gilroy (0-10), 0-7
Friday's games
Friday's games
Mission Division
x-Monte Vista (7-2), 5-1
x-Seaside (5-1), 5-1
x-Alisal (6-4), 5-1
x-Seaside (5-1), 5-1
x-Alisal (6-4), 5-1
Soledad (5-5), 3-3
Monterey (4-6), 2-4
Scotts Valley (3-7), 1-5
North Salinas (0-10), 0-6
North Salinas (0-10), 0-6
Friday's games
Cypress Division
x-Santa Cruz (7-3), 5-1
Soquel (8-2), 4-2
Gonzales (7-3), 4-2
North County (6-4), 3-3
Soquel (8-2), 4-2
Gonzales (7-3), 4-2
North County (6-4), 3-3
King City (6-4), 3-3
San Lorenzo Valley (2-8), 1-5
Watsonville (3-7), 1-5
Friday's games
Santa Lucia Division
x-Pacific Grove (7-3), 6-0
St. Francis (7-3), 5-1
Stevenson (5-3), 3-2
Greenfield (3-7) 3-3
St. Francis (7-3), 5-1
Stevenson (5-3), 3-2
Greenfield (3-7) 3-3
Pajaro Valley (2-7), 2-3
Marina (1-9), 1-5
Harbor (1-9), 0-6
Friday's games
x-clinched share of divisional title
By John Devine
That feeling when something just feels right. It is often immediate -- an impulse, spontaneous like.
Azjani McGill had other recruiting trips planed. That changed the minute he set foot on the Cal State Fullerton campus.
Some 50 years earlier, his grandfather - former Kansas City Chiefs defensive back M.L. Carter -- played at Fullerton.
While there is a connection, McGill's sport of choice is track and field, as the Monterey senior verbally committed to run for the Titans on a full scholarship.
"I told my mom I felt at home the minute I walked on the campus," McGill said. "I called my grandfather and said this is where I want to go."
McGill hopes to create his own legacy at Fullerton as a sprinter, having put his name among the top 100 and 200 meter runners in the state last spring.
"I told the coach I want to make an impact," McGill said. "He said he believes I can help them in several events. I was full of emotions."
While McGill reached the CIF state championships last year in the 100, he is likely moving up this coming spring to the 400, where his potential is untapped.
The 17-year-old has had splits in the high 47's in the 1,600 relay, while specifically training for the 100 and 200.
"The 400 is on my list now," McGill said. "I'd like to get into the 47-48 range. I know it will be a big change for me. I've always been a 100 guy. But I think it will be a positive."
Last year Fullerton State had the 12th fastest time in the nation in the 1,600 relay. McGill has an eye on being part of that unit in 2021.
"I need to learn how to run a 400," McGill
A Central Coast Section champion in the 100 and 200 last spring, McGill
The 6-foot sprinter rewrote the Toreadores school records in the 100 (10.63) and 200 (21.40), breaking the marks held by three-time Olympic bobsledder Nick Cunningham.
"He picked a phenomenal school and a great program on the rise," Cunningham said. "Azjani holds himself to a high standard. He's in a program that will hold him to those standards."
McGill's rise in the sport saw him receive over 30 emails or letters from prospective colleges over the summer.
"It just came in waves," McGill said. "It was humbling. But it was kind of overwhelming. I had to do a lot of researching before I started considering the recruiting process."
Decisions on visits were narrowed down. He had a conversation with Colorado State before his visit to Fullerton State.
McGill didn't need to take his remaining recruiting trips. He mind was made up after spending a weekend on the southern California campus.
"I just felt a vibe that I was part of the family," McGill said. "It just felt right. The facilities are unbelievable. I could see myself spending the next four years there."
McGill doesn't want to just specialize in one event. The 200 remain his favorite race. He's been to the state meet two straight years in the 400 relay. And he'd to long jump again.
"I'm hoping there is a coach out there that will let me jump," said McGill, who went to the CCS finals as a freshman in the long jump.
Cunningham, who now coaches track at Carmel, sees the mindset and work ethic of an athlete willing to make sacrifices to get to another level.
"He has what it takes to be successful at the next level," said Cunningham, a former Boise St. sprinter. "Fullerton will benefit from having Azjani. He'll give them every ounce he has."
McGill had not planned on making a decision on his future until the spring. Now that he has, a sense of relief has enabled him to take a deep breath and exhale.
"I know where I'm going to college," McGill said. "I do not have to stress about it. I still have some goals at Monterey. The work doesn't stop."
By John Devine
MONTEREY: The trials and tribulations that have followed Terry Poole throughout his entire life are fueling his fire to get back to the National Football League.
Playing with a chip on his shoulder has enabled the offensive tackle to persevere and overcome hardships in keeping a dream alive.
A door has been opened for the Monterey Peninsula College offensive line coach, as Poole was drafted earlier this week by the Houston Roughnecks of the Extreme Football League.
"I still feel I should be playing the NFL," the 28-year-old Poole said. "My best years are ahead of me. I've always played like I have something to prove."
Drafted in the fourth round by the Seattle Seahawks in 2015, Poole also had stints with Miami and Houston before a back injury led to his release by the Texans
"It's discouraging when you get cut," Poole said. "A lot of people give up on this. You have to keep believing in yourself, and your abilities to play football mentally and physically."
Poole had hoped to get an invitation to an NFL camp last summer after dominating his position while playing in the now defunct Alliance of American Football League in San Diego.
"You have to keep grinding," Poole said. "There is a whole bunch of stories out there, different paths that people have taken. It's a great fight to strive for. I'm not one to give up."
The 6-foot-5, 305-pound Poole had an inkling he'd get drafted after taking part in a combine for the XFL back in December. Where he was going was the unknown.
"I knew I was on the radar," Poole said. "I was a player that teams were looking at. But no one ever contacted me before the draft."
A former two-time all-conference offensive linemen at MPC, Poole has kept himself in shape with 6 a.m. workouts, as well as serving as a personal trainer.
"I hike, do yoga, lift and run," Poole said. "I know how to keep my body ready and right. I will turn it up a notch when MPC's season is over."
While Poole has downplayed the significance of extending his professional career, his players are seeing first hand a feel good story from a community college disciple.
"It's a trip how these kids keep coming up and showing love," Poole said. "This has just added to what has been a great season so far. We're undefeated."
The 5-0 Lobos will put that undefeated record on the line Saturday, beginning the second half of the season by hosting Merced.
"It's actually been kind of quite here," MPC coach Mike Rasmussen said. "He's been drafted before. He deserves to play. Terry is a great example of developing through the system."
Mike Martz, who was Poole's coach in the AAF with the San Diego Fleet, told Rasmussen he couldn't understand why he wasn't in the NFL.
"It's about being connected," Rasmussen said. "No question Terry has the ability. He just needs an opportunity. Sometimes it's being in the right spot, knowing a coach that familiar with him."
Poole, who prepped at Seaside, squashed concerns about being injury prone, playing every snap on offense for the Fleet last spring before the league folded after eight games.
His release from the Texans in 2017 stemmed from back injury, which has heeled and given him no issues for the last two years.
"You need to be available to compete," Poole said. "That wasn't case when I was in Miami and Houston. It was uncontrollable. I never got a chance to practice."
Poole felt his time in San Diego under Martz and his staff only enhanced his knowledge of the game, while improving his technique and skills.
"It was a great learning experience," Poole said. "I learn more football. I felt like I dominated my position. I felt I'm not that far off. I love competing and proving myself."
Playing in San Diego last spring was like a homecoming for Poole, who earned all conference honor while at San Diego State.
Houston will feel like redemption for Poole, whose stay with Texans was brief because of his back injury.
"This is another opportunity," said Poole, who will report to mini camp in December. "You can only play football for so long. My objective is to get back into the NFL."
While Poole considers himself in arguably the best shape of life, his acknowledges that you can't simulate football shape without putting the pads on.
"It's completely different," Poole said. "You can't simulate the game unless you are on the field with contact. But I just got done playing in April. I'm not that far removed."
As a coach, Poole as been a sponge under Rasmussen, seeing the game from a completely different perspective.
"I'm gaining more knowledge from coach Rasmussen," Poole said. "It's a great atmosphere out here, being able to help young people. It's a chance to give back some knowledge."
By John Devine
SANTA CRUZ: Sean Gomes thought about an on-side kick before the start of the second half.
His gut feeling was it would work. His intuitions told him no.
"I didn't want to pull the trigger too early," the North County football coach said.
His visions were correct.
It just came a little late as the Condors late rally fell short Friday in a 33-21 loss to Santa Cruz in a battle of unbeatens in the Cypress Division.
The loss snapped a five-game winning streak for the Condors, their longest since 2010.
"Next week is not a bye week," Gomes said. "It's a get better week. We had too many penalties. We need to be more disciplined. We shot ourselves in the foot."
North County, who has the second most league titles in the county over the last 35
With two games left in the season, its sits a game behind Santa Cruz, locked in a tie for second with Gonzales and Soquel.
All four teams games with each other over the final three weeks of the season.
"We can only control what's in front of us," said Gomes, whose squad has improved in the win column three straight years.
Having scored a late touchdown to take a 7-6 halftime lead, the Condors watched Santa Cruz run off the games next 19 points to open up a 26-7 lead with 10 minutes.
"I felt we had some momentum going into halftime after that touchdown," Gomes said.
That disappeared when Santa Cruz took the second half kickoff and drove down field to take the lead.
"Sure, you think what if I had tried the on-side kick," Gomes said. "If we get ball and go down and score, it's probably a different result."
Gomes had seen something on film to make him believe that an onside kick would work.
And his believes were accurate when the Condors attempted an on-side kick after scoring with eight minutes left in the game to cut the deficit to 26-14.
"We were still down by two scores," Gomes said. "Based on how they lined up and how good our kicker is, lets do it."
The Condors recovered, engineering drive that climaxed when Brandon Ducusin scored from a yard out to cut the lead to 26-21 with 2:12 left.
This time both sides knew what was coming. And had the Condors not touched the ball early, they would have recovered it again.
"If had just waited two more yards," Gomes said.
What transpired was a Dillan Danner touchdown run seal the Condors fate.
The 33 points North County allowed was more than it has given up during its five-game winning streak.
"Santa Cruz was fast, athletic and aggressive," Gomes said. "There were times were I thought we were breaking a play and their defense was there to stop it."
Ducusin compiled his sixth multi touchdown game for the Condors, tossing touchdown passes to Riley Anderson and Jason Mellon.
His scoring toss to Anderson gave them a 7-6 halftime lead. Ducusin has either thrown or rushed for 15 touchdowns this year.
North County two losses this year are to teams a combined 10-3 this season.
"The bye week will give us some time to regroup," Gomes said. "
By John Devine
Outside of the plush synthetic surface that graces the field, the feeling of an era from the past will be reincarnated for one evening.
The physicality and run first mentality that Alisal throws at opponents falls right into place of what Seaside has perfected this fall in an undefeated start.
"I do not know if anyone can match our physicality," Seaside coach Al Avila said. "But Alisal has the size to match up with us."
While the Spartans are looking improve upon their discipline, Alisal is playing for perhaps its postseason lives Friday in a Mission Division heavyweight bout.
"We've been in a must win mood since league play started," Alisal coach Cesar Chaidez said. "We have to have the mentality, understanding and mindset of keeping the focus on us."
Chaidez is a throwback when it comes to his beliefs offensively, and that's grinding the ball and chewing up the clock, where the fullback is an integral part of the offense.
Playing the Trojans is like being in 50 fender benders at 5 mph, with a punishing ground game that runs right at defenses.
"It's a power offense," Avila said. "Alisal's lineman are down blocking. The guards are pulling, and doing a nice job of coming off the ball and blocking. It's tough to defend."
The Trojans are headed for another 2,000 plus yard rushing season, albeit much more spread out this year as five different players are getting ample carries.
"Our goal is 14 to 16 play drives that keep the clock moving," Chaidez said. "We aren't going to change who we are. Through the process, you have to be committed and consistent."
Chaidez has been a gambler all fall, fearless in using all four downs when the situation is what he believes is a making amount of yards.
Lining up in Wing-T, the Trojans have turned towards Nate Ramos, Andrei Rayas and Ezequiel Rodriguez to pick up those hard earned yards.
"Those type of offenses eat the clock up," Avila said. "It is a discipline type offense. But if you can jump out on a Wing-T team and get a lead, it's not a quick striking offense."
The Spartans are not 7-0 by accident. The resurrection of the program starts with their defense, which has posted three shutouts, including last week's 27-0 blanking of Scotts Valley.
Kefu Leander and Tevita Kamitoni are terrors in the trenches while Dylan Olivares is a demon on the outside, along with Rusty Finona.
"These are old school aggressive type of players," Avila said. "I feel we're getting to a level we have had in past years -- a style of play that we're used to seeing."
You won't get an argument from Chaidez, who took a deep breath after watching two hours of film of Seaside on Monday.
"That defense is impressive," Chaidez said. "The lineman on both sides surge off and the ball. Coach Avila has done a great job of developing. That's what we'd like to develop at Alisal."
Despite being the only undefeated team remaining in the tri-region, Avila doesn't believe the Spartans have played to their full potential since a Week 2 win over Bishop O'Dowd.
"We were at another level that night," said Avila, in the reference to its win over the defending state champions. "I was hoping we'd get to a higher level. That hasn't happened."
And that concerns Avila, as the team heads into its final three games against teams with playoff aspirations -- that are in survival mood as well.
"We will see where we are at over these last three games," Avila said. "I never look at scores. It is about matchups.We have got to be smarter with the decisions we make."
Avila was was referring to the seven touchdowns called back because of penalties this year by the offense -- an offense ravaged by injuries to key personnel.
"We are still making the same discipline mistakes on offense," Avila said. "We are eight weeks into the season. We're our own worst enemy. It's going to catch up to us sooner later."
Despite having had to learn how to play without its quarterback and tailback for the rest of the season, the Spartans haven't skipped a beat, scoring 50 points in their last two games.
Treyvon Campbell is a bruising type back that gets hard earned yards, while sophomore Glen Beal is showing game breaking speed. And Jesse Gonzales has filled a need behind center.
"Jesse has stepped up and done a good, throwing in tight windows," Avila said. "The kids have rallied around him. He takes command, enabling us to run our offense.
Experience has come on the job for Alisal, whose three running backs and quarterback Benny Chuca are all juniors.
"Running the triple option takes a lot of experience and dedication," Chaidez said. "Slowly he (Chuca) is getting more comfortable and getting more assertive over time."
The time is know for the Trojans put the complete package together in arguably their biggest game of the season as their postseason may hedge on the outcome.
"Third and fourth down conversations are the key," Chaidez said. "If you can convert, you will extend drives and control the clock."
For Chaidez
"You have to love the process," Chaidez said. "That's how you develop that mentality. Can we execute technique our assignments on any given play? It's not as much about wins as growth."
All County offense
QB: Carl Richardson, Salinas
QB: Kai Lee, Carmel
RB: Anthony Villegas, Palma
RB: Dakota Mornhinweg, Carmel
RB: Braden Arriago-Lopez, Alvarez
WR: JJ Chin, Salinas:
WR: Jon Jon Berring, Palma
WR: Benicio Cartalfo, Carmel
WR: Josiah Freeman, Soledad
TE: J.D. Byrne, Carmel
OL: Palma
OL: Salinas:
OL: Palma:
OL: Tavita, Seaside
OL: Alisal:
Utility: Hendrick Lusk, Monterey
All County defense
DB: Rusty Finona, Seaside
DB: Riley Anderson, North County
DB: Cade Smith, Salinas
DB: Lavar Edwards, Carmel
LB: Jonas Thomas, Monterey
LB: Brent Eastman, Palma
LB: Joey Moag, Salinas
LB: Jaycob Olivas, Soledad
LB: Dylan Olivares, Seaside
DL: Kefu Leander, Seaside
DL: Palma
DL: Salinas
DL: Amir Brown, Camel
Utility: Blake Moore, Pacific Grove:
Coach of the Year: Cesar Chaidez.
MVP: Carl Richardson, Salinas
Defense; Kefu Leander, Seaside
Coach of the Year: Cesar Chaidez.
MVP: Carl Richardson, Salinas
Defense; Kefu Leander, Seaside
Marina, Greenfield, King City, Stevenson, Trinity, North Salinas,
Seaside, Monterey, PG, Carmel, North County, Alvarez, Salinas, Palma, Soledad, Alisal
Volleyball
Alanah Gordon, Salinas: The 6-foot-3 middle blocker was a disruptive force at the net for the Cowboys, finishing amount the Central Coast Section leaders in blocks with 118.
Just a sophomore, Gordon became one of the focal points of Salinas' attack, leading the team in kills with 225, providing a menacing presence in the front row.
Brooke Cannon, Salinas: A defensive specialist, Cannon solidified the Cowboys defense in the back row, compiling 481 digs in 28 matches.
The sophomore was a defensive demon, often igniting the offense with a diving dig, getting the ball into the hands of the setter.
Kylie Moore, Salinas: Injuries derailed the end of Moore's season. Before being sideline, she seldom came off the floor, compiling nearly 300 digs and a 138 kills.
The outside hitter shared the wealth at the net, while providing Salinas with another defensive weapon rotation in the back row. The junior also produced 25 service aces.
Emma Crabbe, Carmel: A four year starter and repeater on the all-county team, Crabbe had over 700 assists for the second straight year.
Orchestrating the offense with precise timing on her sets, Crabbe was also one of Carmel's top defenders, finishing with over 100 digs, and was one of the better servers in the county.
Karoline Ruiz, Carmel: The senior hitter ignited the offense at the net, compiling nearly 300 kills for the Padres, who reached the semifinals of the CCS DIV playoffs.
Ruiz also led the team in blocks and provided defense in the back row on rotation for Carmel, as well as providing an another offensive weapon beyond the 10 foot line.
Aaliyah Foster, Alvarez: A menacing presence at the net for the Eagles, Foster tallied nearly 300 kills in taking the program back to the postseason.
The senior outside hitter was the complete package in the front row, finishing among the area leaders in blocks, while lead Alvarez in service aces.
Samantha Montelongo, Alisal: A three year starter, the senior hitter was force on both ends of the net for the Mission Division champion Trojans.
Montelongo compiled a team high 321 kills and 119 blocks, disrupting opponents shots at the net, while sending ball whistling across the floor for kills.
Just a sophomore, Gordon became one of the focal points of Salinas' attack, leading the team in kills with 225, providing a menacing presence in the front row.
Brooke Cannon, Salinas: A defensive specialist, Cannon solidified the Cowboys defense in the back row, compiling 481 digs in 28 matches.
The sophomore was a defensive demon, often igniting the offense with a diving dig, getting the ball into the hands of the setter.
Kylie Moore, Salinas: Injuries derailed the end of Moore's season. Before being sideline, she seldom came off the floor, compiling nearly 300 digs and a 138 kills.
The outside hitter shared the wealth at the net, while providing Salinas with another defensive weapon rotation in the back row. The junior also produced 25 service aces.
Emma Crabbe, Carmel: A four year starter and repeater on the all-county team, Crabbe had over 700 assists for the second straight year.
Orchestrating the offense with precise timing on her sets, Crabbe was also one of Carmel's top defenders, finishing with over 100 digs, and was one of the better servers in the county.
Karoline Ruiz, Carmel: The senior hitter ignited the offense at the net, compiling nearly 300 kills for the Padres, who reached the semifinals of the CCS DIV playoffs.
Ruiz also led the team in blocks and provided defense in the back row on rotation for Carmel, as well as providing an another offensive weapon beyond the 10 foot line.
Aaliyah Foster, Alvarez: A menacing presence at the net for the Eagles, Foster tallied nearly 300 kills in taking the program back to the postseason.
The senior outside hitter was the complete package in the front row, finishing among the area leaders in blocks, while lead Alvarez in service aces.
Samantha Montelongo, Alisal: A three year starter, the senior hitter was force on both ends of the net for the Mission Division champion Trojans.
Montelongo compiled a team high 321 kills and 119 blocks, disrupting opponents shots at the net, while sending ball whistling across the floor for kills.
A member of The Herald's All-County softball team, the senior was effective in the back row, solidifying the defense on rotation for the Spirits, compiling over 200 kills
Aria Adams, Monterey: Arguably the most complete player on the Toreadores roster, Adams had over 200 kills and digs this past fall.
Despite missing seven matches, Adams still finished with 218 kills and 291 digs. She compiled a team high 48 service aces for Monterey, who reached DIII quarterfinals.
Despite missing seven matches, Adams still finished with 218 kills and 291 digs. She compiled a team high 48 service aces for Monterey, who reached DIII quarterfinals.
Giselle Cortina, Soledad: The heart of the Cypress Division champion Aztecs attack, Cortina compiled nearly 500 assists this past season, and also led the team in service aces.
The junior averaged over 35 assists a match, compiling a career high 53 in one match, igniting an program to a school record 22 win season. Cortina was among the team leaders in blocks.
The junior averaged over 35 assists a match, compiling a career high 53 in one match, igniting an program to a school record 22 win season. Cortina was among the team leaders in blocks.
MONTEREY: It wasn't an auspicious start for Brenna Ozel.
Missing a 3-foot putt to open her day at Tuesday's Gabilan Division golf championships could have snowballed in a catastrophic direction on a hot afternoon.
"It wasn't the best start," the Carmel senior said.
Once the nerves settled down, Ozel quickly regrouped and put together a solid 18 holes to earn medalist honors at Laguna Seca Golf Course.
Her 3-over 73, though, wasn't enough for the defending champions as Stevenson claimed the team title.
Both will advance to next Tuesday's Central Coast Section finals at Laguna Seca, as the Padres finished as the runner-ups based on their body of work over the course of the season.
Santa Catalina, who finished third overall, will petition for an at-large spot, along with Salinas' Makenzi Laporte as an individual, after she finished second with a 79.
The CCS will take 11 individuals not associated with a qualifying team from the six leagues in the section and announced who advances Thursday night.
"I'm not feeling good my chances," Laporte said. "My putting was off. I would feel a lot better if I had shot about five strokes better."
Ozel, an all-leaguer last year as well for Carmel, felt some pressure to get back to the section tournament.
"As a senior, you want to do your part and elevate the team," Ozel said. "Our goal was defend our title and get back to the section tournament as a team."
Once Ozel got into a rhythm and adjusted to the smaller tees over 18 holes, she drove the ball well and sizzled with the sun on the front nine.
"I still made some still mistakes," Ozel said. "But I was able to turn it around. The wind cooled things down later in the afternoon. The course played well."
Particularly for the Pirates, who won the title by 26 strokes to post an undefeated league season and recapture the team title.
"We did not worry about a title," Stevenson sophomore Sydney Craven said. "We talked about playing our own game. Focus on what we need to work on."
The strength of the Pirates all season has been how close their scores often are to each other, as five different players have been medalists over the course of the season.
The league finals were no exception as Craven finished with a 79, followed by Xam Calugas's 82, Callie Chen's 83, Emma Chung's 85 and Sophie Dai's 95.
"There were challenges on the course," Craven said. "But I was able to solve them. Today was one of my better scores on this course. We were excited to play."
Chen put together one of her best efforts at Laguna Seca, driving the ball well off the tees and hitting the greens, giving her opportunties for pars.
"I had some good drives today," Chen said. "The greens were tough. It was so dry and hot. It helped that we've played her before."
While conditions got into the mid 80's when the tournament began at 11 a.m., the winds cooled the conditions midway through the event.
"I was here two years ago when it reached triple digits," Chen said.
Santa Catalina's Alex Nickle carded an 80, while Lauren Resquir shot an 83 for Salinas. Tara Gomez of York finished with an 85.
Palma Jeff Carnazzo.
By John Devine
SALINAS: The epic battle these teams had in the regular season last fall was arguably the best game of the season -- down to the final second with Aptos sitting just short of the goal line.
The rematch in the postseason was a mismatch, a humbling defeat that made the short bus ride from Rabobank one of the quietests for Palma.
"Absolutely it gives us a little more motivation," Palma coach Jeff Carnazzo said. "It wasn't a great feeling. We were outplayed and outcoached."
The two teams will get reacquainted in a Saturday matinee as the Chieftains will host Aptos at 1 p.m. at Rabobank.
Depending on what transpires on Friday between San Benito and Salinas, the two Gabilan Division rivals could be playing for a share of first place.
"Our fate isn't in our hands in terms of winning a league title," Carnazzo said. "We lost the ability to dictate that by losing to Salinas. Our focus now is on us and getting better."
Which the Chieftains have done since that 38-35 loss to Salinas, having won their last four games to clinch a 36th straight postseason berth.
Last year Palma got a stop at the 1-yard line as time expired to beat Aptos 40-35. But in the playoff rematch five weeks later, the Mariners steamrolled to a 49-6 dumping.
"Aptos prepared well and handled the distractions better than us," Carnazzo said.
Carnazzo was speaking about the fires last year that postponed the second week of the playoffs for eight days.
Aptos went on to win its fourth Central Coast Section Open Division III title in six years, falling to eventual state champion McClymonds of Oakland in the NorCal 4AA playoff game.
One of the Mariners three losses this year was a 21-19 loss to Oakdale, a team Palma defeated 24-18 a week later.
"The precision of their (Aptos) ground game looks like it always does," Carnazzo said. "They run the Wing-T really well. The only difference this year is more players are involved in the offense."
Five different players have been used in the ground game for Aptos, who has rattled off four straight wins, defeating Christopher 49-19 last week.
"Aptos is so disciplined," Carnazzo said. "If you load the box to stop the run, they have no problem throwing the ball. It seems like they have a number of guys that can hurt you."
Grinding the ball and chewing up the clock, though, is what the Mariners do best. And to a degree, it is how Palma has jumped out to a 6-2 start this year.
Anthony Villegas has rushed for 150 or more yards in all seven games he's played this year, racking up 1,364 yards and 24 touchdowns.
Over the course of three years, Villegas has rushed for over 100 yards in 26 of his last 30 games for the Chieftains, with 47 touchdowns.
"He's been unbelievable this fall," Carnazzo said. "He prepares well. He gets better as the game goes on. What he doesn't get enough credit for is for his blocking."
Which Carnazzo has asked more of from Villegas, as he works to make Palma a little more balanced for the postseason.
"We had to," Carnazzo said. "You can't keep giving him 25 to 30 carries. We had to diverse. Others have to contribute. We need 150 yards from our quarterback, whether its running or passing."
And that's what the Chieftains quarterbacks have provided in the teams last three games, using three different players at the position to make that happen.
While Luke Rossi and Luke Brigantino are traditional quarterbacks with different skill levels, Jon Jon Berring is lining up in the 'Wildcat'.
Last week Berring, who starts in the slot at receiver, took off on a 40-yard touchdown run in a 44-16 win over Alvarez.
"It's not what I've done in the past and it's not traditional," Carnazzo said. "But if it takes three guys, that is what we will do. We need Berring to touch the ball more."
Berring creates problems because he's on the field at all times, meaning his presence doesn't allow an opponent to prepare for the 'Wildcat'.
"We can keep the same personnel on the field," Carnazzo said. "Teams don't know when we're going to do it. We're going to continue to build on that. Right now it's a three-man job."
Of course, the real test comes in the next two weeks as the Chieftains face two playoff bound teams. Their last two wins have come against teams a combined 3-13.
"I think we can continue to do it," Carnazzo said. "We'll continue to develop the sophomore and you will see the senior, unless someone takes over the position to our satisfaction."
If anything, it does not allow an opponent to prepare for one individual, although the Mariners will likely plan their defense around containing Villegas.
"Defensively, Aptos moves really well," Carnazzo said. "The defense is really active up front and causes problems for your offensive line. They're big, but quick and strong."
Striving for balance has been the battle cry all season. Carnazzo calls is a process, one that he feels is going in the right direction, even if it's gone a little slower than he'd hoped.
"If there is a concern, it's that we're not balanced enough on offense," Carnazzo said. "Defensively we have struggled all year long in the secondary. Aptos is not a one dimensional team. We need to be sound."
SALINAS: The epic battle these teams had in the regular season last fall was arguably the best game of the season -- down to the final second with Aptos sitting just short of the goal line.
The rematch in the postseason was a mismatch, a humbling defeat that made the short bus ride from Rabobank one of the quietests for Palma.
"Absolutely it gives us a little more motivation," Palma coach Jeff Carnazzo said. "It wasn't a great feeling. We were outplayed and outcoached."
The two teams will get reacquainted in a Saturday matinee as the Chieftains will host Aptos at 1 p.m. at Rabobank.
Depending on what transpires on Friday between San Benito and Salinas, the two Gabilan Division rivals could be playing for a share of first place.
"Our fate isn't in our hands in terms of winning a league title," Carnazzo said. "We lost the ability to dictate that by losing to Salinas. Our focus now is on us and getting better."
Which the Chieftains have done since that 38-35 loss to Salinas, having won their last four games to clinch a 36th straight postseason berth.
Last year Palma got a stop at the 1-yard line as time expired to beat Aptos 40-35. But in the playoff rematch five weeks later, the Mariners steamrolled to a 49-6 dumping.
"Aptos prepared well and handled the distractions better than us," Carnazzo said.
Carnazzo was speaking about the fires last year that postponed the second week of the playoffs for eight days.
Aptos went on to win its fourth Central Coast Section Open Division III title in six years, falling to eventual state champion McClymonds of Oakland in the NorCal 4AA playoff game.
One of the Mariners three losses this year was a 21-19 loss to Oakdale, a team Palma defeated 24-18 a week later.
"The precision of their (Aptos) ground game looks like it always does," Carnazzo said. "They run the Wing-T really well. The only difference this year is more players are involved in the offense."
Five different players have been used in the ground game for Aptos, who has rattled off four straight wins, defeating Christopher 49-19 last week.
"Aptos is so disciplined," Carnazzo said. "If you load the box to stop the run, they have no problem throwing the ball. It seems like they have a number of guys that can hurt you."
Grinding the ball and chewing up the clock, though, is what the Mariners do best. And to a degree, it is how Palma has jumped out to a 6-2 start this year.
Anthony Villegas has rushed for 150 or more yards in all seven games he's played this year, racking up 1,364 yards and 24 touchdowns.
Over the course of three years, Villegas has rushed for over 100 yards in 26 of his last 30 games for the Chieftains, with 47 touchdowns.
"He's been unbelievable this fall," Carnazzo said. "He prepares well. He gets better as the game goes on. What he doesn't get enough credit for is for his blocking."
Which Carnazzo has asked more of from Villegas, as he works to make Palma a little more balanced for the postseason.
"We had to," Carnazzo said. "You can't keep giving him 25 to 30 carries. We had to diverse. Others have to contribute. We need 150 yards from our quarterback, whether its running or passing."
And that's what the Chieftains quarterbacks have provided in the teams last three games, using three different players at the position to make that happen.
While Luke Rossi and Luke Brigantino are traditional quarterbacks with different skill levels, Jon Jon Berring is lining up in the 'Wildcat'.
Last week Berring, who starts in the slot at receiver, took off on a 40-yard touchdown run in a 44-16 win over Alvarez.
"It's not what I've done in the past and it's not traditional," Carnazzo said. "But if it takes three guys, that is what we will do. We need Berring to touch the ball more."
Berring creates problems because he's on the field at all times, meaning his presence doesn't allow an opponent to prepare for the 'Wildcat'.
"We can keep the same personnel on the field," Carnazzo said. "Teams don't know when we're going to do it. We're going to continue to build on that. Right now it's a three-man job."
Of course, the real test comes in the next two weeks as the Chieftains face two playoff bound teams. Their last two wins have come against teams a combined 3-13.
"I think we can continue to do it," Carnazzo said. "We'll continue to develop the sophomore and you will see the senior, unless someone takes over the position to our satisfaction."
If anything, it does not allow an opponent to prepare for one individual, although the Mariners will likely plan their defense around containing Villegas.
"Defensively, Aptos moves really well," Carnazzo said. "The defense is really active up front and causes problems for your offensive line. They're big, but quick and strong."
Striving for balance has been the battle cry all season. Carnazzo calls is a process, one that he feels is going in the right direction, even if it's gone a little slower than he'd hoped.
"If there is a concern, it's that we're not balanced enough on offense," Carnazzo said. "Defensively we have struggled all year long in the secondary. Aptos is not a one dimensional team. We need to be sound."
By John Devine
SALNAS: The rivalry alone -- 71 years and counting -- provides a little more spice during the week in practice.
Adding to the anxiety is the potential for a conference championship, which for over the last decade has become common theme.
Dating back to 2008, Hartnell or Monterey Peninsula College have combined for seven conference titles, with one or the other finishing in second 11 straight years.
"It's always a big game in a lot of ways," MPC coach Mike Rasmussen said. "It's very typical for the Hartnell-MPC games I've been involved with."
The roles will be reversed this year when MPC takes its 7-0 record into Rabobank Saturday to face the Panthers.
Last fall Hartnell went over the MPC 7-0 and promptly gave up a season high 66 points in suffering its first loss of the year.
"There is some irony there," Hartnell coach Matt Collins said. "We don't just assume it will be a role reversal. We're both playing for something important. We've been in this position before."
Hartnell (5-2) has been in a must win situation after it dropped its conference opener three weeks ago to Cabrillo.
"We've been playing with our backs against the wall all season," Collins said. "We have no room for error. All we can do is control our fate and win. It starts with trying to be 1-0 on Saturday."
The Panthers are playing with arguably the smallest roster in the state, as 32 players are expected to suit for rivalry game.
"It's not how many guys you have," said Rasmussen, whose roster is double the size. "It's how hard you play and how committed you hart. Hartnell plays really hard."
So do the Lobos, are in the top 10 in the state in offensive production, averaging 39.4 points a game after erupting for 50 in snapping De Anza's four-game winning streak last week.
Quarterback Hunter Raquet, who spent last season redshirting at Fresno State, threw for 294 yards and four touchdown last week, while rushing for a touchdown.
"Hunter is a very good player and leader of this offense," Rasmussen said. "He keeps getting better. There's no substitute for playing the game."
Raquet, who prepped at San Benito, where the ball game is obsolete, has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 18 touchdowns in six games, while rushing for six touchdowns.
"He gets the ball out quick and has some talent on the perimeter," Collins said. "MPC presents a lot of problems for teams to prepare for. That's a well coached team."
The Panthers are battled tested, having lost eight starters during points of the season, including last year's state passing leader in yards in Isaiah Randalle and tailback David Freeman.
Having played through a separated shoulder and sprained ankle, Freeman chalked up over 200 yards in total offense in last week's road win at Merced -- going over 1,100 yards for the season.
"He's played through some pain," Collins said. "David was limited for a couple of games. He feels good. He does a good job when the ball is in his hands. He's versatile."
The emphasis this fall has been more on the run for the Panthers with Freeman chalking up over 800 yards and Emmanuel Ortega going over 100 yards rushing in his one start.
"From my prospective, Hartnell has always run the ball well," Rasmussen said.
While hyper-extended knee did not keep Randalle on the sidelines, a concussion did, forcing him to miss two weeks, which allowed his knee time to heel.
"He's moving around better," Collins said. "He's throwing the ball more accurately. He's starting to get his confidence back and doing a better job of managing our offense."
Randalle has thrown for 478 yards and four touchdowns since returning to the lineup for Hartnell, with converted defensive back Jacob Streeter having caught touchdowns in his last two games.
Because the Panthers don't have a lot of depth, eight different players are seeing action on both sides of the ball, including receiver/defensive back Payton Flores.
"It seems like every week there's another breakdown that forces us to be creative with what we've got left," Collins said. "We're in a position where we have to find a way to put best product on the field."
Containing the Lobos explosive offense starts with getting pressure on Raquet. Someone has to keep an eye on Dacian Sullivan, who caught passes for 168 yards and two touchdowns last week.
A backfield by committee approach, which includes Nathan Grijalva and Marina graduate Fermin Gabot, has combined for nearly 800 rushing yards.
"We're fortunate to have the guys we have," Rasmussen said. "We've strive for balance. I don't know if we always accomplish that. But at some point time, if one isn't working, you have do the other."
Four times the Lobos have produced 40 or more points this year, as they chases their first undefeated season since current Idaho assistant coach Brian Reader quarterbacked the team in 2008.
"I never think of terms of outcome," Rasmussen said. "I think of terms of growth and progress. I like the way we've grown up. As long as we're improving, that's a good thing."
That includes the Lobos defense, which has created 25 turnovers this year, with Delano Dickerson having six interceptions in just five games.
"Delano's best years are in front of him," Rasmussen said. "We are plus 21 in turnover ratio. "We're taking care of the ball as well."
The Lobos have one of the state leaders in sacks in Alisal grad Eric Mendoza, who has 9.5. Hartnell counters with Robert Brown, who has eight, with DeMarcus Hawkins coming off the edge.
"The key to any defense is knowing who you are," Rasmussen said. "Hartnell knows who they are on defense."
Adding to the anxiety is the potential for a conference championship, which for over the last decade has become common theme.
Dating back to 2008, Hartnell or Monterey Peninsula College have combined for seven conference titles, with one or the other finishing in second 11 straight years.
"It's always a big game in a lot of ways," MPC coach Mike Rasmussen said. "It's very typical for the Hartnell-MPC games I've been involved with."
The roles will be reversed this year when MPC takes its 7-0 record into Rabobank Saturday to face the Panthers.
Last fall Hartnell went over the MPC 7-0 and promptly gave up a season high 66 points in suffering its first loss of the year.
"There is some irony there," Hartnell coach Matt Collins said. "We don't just assume it will be a role reversal. We're both playing for something important. We've been in this position before."
Hartnell (5-2) has been in a must win situation after it dropped its conference opener three weeks ago to Cabrillo.
"We've been playing with our backs against the wall all season," Collins said. "We have no room for error. All we can do is control our fate and win. It starts with trying to be 1-0 on Saturday."
The Panthers are playing with arguably the smallest roster in the state, as 32 players are expected to suit for rivalry game.
"It's not how many guys you have," said Rasmussen, whose roster is double the size. "It's how hard you play and how committed you hart. Hartnell plays really hard."
So do the Lobos, are in the top 10 in the state in offensive production, averaging 39.4 points a game after erupting for 50 in snapping De Anza's four-game winning streak last week.
Quarterback Hunter Raquet, who spent last season redshirting at Fresno State, threw for 294 yards and four touchdown last week, while rushing for a touchdown.
"Hunter is a very good player and leader of this offense," Rasmussen said. "He keeps getting better. There's no substitute for playing the game."
Raquet, who prepped at San Benito, where the ball game is obsolete, has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 18 touchdowns in six games, while rushing for six touchdowns.
"He gets the ball out quick and has some talent on the perimeter," Collins said. "MPC presents a lot of problems for teams to prepare for. That's a well coached team."
The Panthers are battled tested, having lost eight starters during points of the season, including last year's state passing leader in yards in Isaiah Randalle and tailback David Freeman.
Having played through a separated shoulder and sprained ankle, Freeman chalked up over 200 yards in total offense in last week's road win at Merced -- going over 1,100 yards for the season.
"He's played through some pain," Collins said. "David was limited for a couple of games. He feels good. He does a good job when the ball is in his hands. He's versatile."
The emphasis this fall has been more on the run for the Panthers with Freeman chalking up over 800 yards and Emmanuel Ortega going over 100 yards rushing in his one start.
"From my prospective, Hartnell has always run the ball well," Rasmussen said.
While hyper-extended knee did not keep Randalle on the sidelines, a concussion did, forcing him to miss two weeks, which allowed his knee time to heel.
"He's moving around better," Collins said. "He's throwing the ball more accurately. He's starting to get his confidence back and doing a better job of managing our offense."
Randalle has thrown for 478 yards and four touchdowns since returning to the lineup for Hartnell, with converted defensive back Jacob Streeter having caught touchdowns in his last two games.
Because the Panthers don't have a lot of depth, eight different players are seeing action on both sides of the ball, including receiver/defensive back Payton Flores.
"It seems like every week there's another breakdown that forces us to be creative with what we've got left," Collins said. "We're in a position where we have to find a way to put best product on the field."
Containing the Lobos explosive offense starts with getting pressure on Raquet. Someone has to keep an eye on Dacian Sullivan, who caught passes for 168 yards and two touchdowns last week.
A backfield by committee approach, which includes Nathan Grijalva and Marina graduate Fermin Gabot, has combined for nearly 800 rushing yards.
"We're fortunate to have the guys we have," Rasmussen said. "We've strive for balance. I don't know if we always accomplish that. But at some point time, if one isn't working, you have do the other."
Four times the Lobos have produced 40 or more points this year, as they chases their first undefeated season since current Idaho assistant coach Brian Reader quarterbacked the team in 2008.
"I never think of terms of outcome," Rasmussen said. "I think of terms of growth and progress. I like the way we've grown up. As long as we're improving, that's a good thing."
That includes the Lobos defense, which has created 25 turnovers this year, with Delano Dickerson having six interceptions in just five games.
"Delano's best years are in front of him," Rasmussen said. "We are plus 21 in turnover ratio. "We're taking care of the ball as well."
The Lobos have one of the state leaders in sacks in Alisal grad Eric Mendoza, who has 9.5. Hartnell counters with Robert Brown, who has eight, with DeMarcus Hawkins coming off the edge.
"The key to any defense is knowing who you are," Rasmussen said. "Hartnell knows who they are on defense."
High School girls golf: Season comes to end for Carmel, Stevenson
By John Devine
MONTEREY: Longer tees were incorporated. Temperatures hovered 40 plus degrees cooler with the morning tee offs at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch.
From that point, it was a mental battle. Finding that rhythm really never set in for the Stevenson and Carmel girls golf teams at Tuesday's Central Coast Section championships.
"The back nine were horrendous for me," said Carmel senior Brenna Ozel, last week's medalist at the Gabilan Division finals.
That about summed it up for both teams as their seasons came to an abrupt end.
"It was one of those days where nothing went right over the first nine holes," Ozel said. "I'm thinking after a bogey on the first hole, this isn't good."
Ozel did bounce back with a solid front nine to finish with an 80, seven strokes off the 73 she carded at last week's Gabilan Division championships on the same course.
"The course played different because the tees were switched," Ozel said. "But that didn't really effect me. I felt I needed to shoot at least five strokes better to have a shot at advancing."
Shooting 8-over on the back nine, Ozel fired a 1-over on the front line to close a chapter in her golf career on a positive note, birding the No. 8 hole.
"I was thinking it's my senior year, I can't go out like that," Ozel said. "I was proud of how I finished because I was able to turn it around. My game came back, just a little late."
Ozel, who has a handful of colleges interested in her services for next season, was the only player in the county to get under 80 among the 11 that took part.
Sophomore Sydney Craven hoped a few changes in her swing would help her improve upon her 79 that she carded last week for league champion Stevenson.
Instead, she struggled with her putting, finishing with an 87 -- four shots off last year's score at the section finals.
"My goal was to beat last year's score," Craven said. "The score, though, is not a reflection as to how much I've improved this year."
Craven played most of the year as the Pirates No. 1 golfer. While the corrections she made reflected on her drives, her struggles in her putting game left her with bogey's.
"I was getting on the greens, giving myself an opportunity to make par on nearly every hole," Craven said. "But my putting was just a little off."
Playing last week with temperatures reaching 88 degrees, opening the tournament at 43 degrees left Craven numb.
"Oh, it was insane," Craven said. "It was really cold in the morning. It was hard to get loose. I would much rather play in heat."
Teammate Callie Chen finished her final match for Stevenson with a 93, capping a career that saw her earn all-league honors three times.
"The placement of the tees threw me," said Chen, who finished in a tie with teammate Xam Calugus. "The greens were a lot faster today as opposed to last week. My drives weren't bad."
Inexperience caught up with some of the Padres youth, as a freshman and three sophomores made up the fab five.
"Do I really need to tell you my score?" freshman Sophia Southland smiled. "I found myself around a lot of trees for what seemed like every hole. I was hitting around them, through branches."
Southland went over 100 for a score, as did sophomores McKenna Tarsitano, Shannon Ikemiya and Ariana Smith.
"My short game was fine once I landed on the greens," Southland said. "The long game was bad. I'm not a fan of the early morning wake-up call."
Another adjustment was playing 18 holes for the second time in two weeks. All league matches are nine holes.
"You have to have a lot more stamina and strength," Tarsitano said. "It's a lot more rigorous and time consuming."
The average round was running just over six hours.
"I hit three provisions balls to start my day," Tarsitano said. "Yeah, I got off to a rocky start. But I felt like I picked myself up. The score won't indicate it. But I thought I ended well."
College cross country
Coast Conference finals
At Toro Park
Men's results (8k)
1. De Anza 27; 2. Hartnell 29; 3. Chabot 88; 4. San Francisco 120; 5. Monterey Peninsula 148; 6. San Mateo 157.
Individual results
1. Jesus Avalos (Hartnell 21:03.2; 2. Ethan Sunseri (De Anza) 21:21.0; 3. Isaac Gensel (Hartnell) 21:24.0; 4. Max Corrales (De Anza) 21:26.1; 5. Akijo Fujisawa (De Anza) 21:27.5; 6. Rigo Garcia (Hartnell) 21:38.9; 7. Tyler Stowell (De Anza) 21:43.3; 8. Jovanni Garcia (Hartnell) 21:48.2; 9. Ryan Menees (De Anza) 21:49.7; 10. Adrian Schroeder (Chabot) 21:51.1.
Women's results (5k)
1. Hartnell; 2. San Mateo 62; 3. De Anza 70; 4. Monterey Peninsula 96.
Individual results
1. Daniela Salazar (Hartnell) 18:50.5; 2. Shantal Martinez (Hartnell) 18:52.4; 3. Valerie Lozano-Gomez (Hartnell) 19:20.9; 4. Aubrey Scheibel (Chabot) 19:59.3; 5. Shannen Dorn (San Mateo) 20:05.6; 6. Faith Mora (Hartnell) 20:12.5; 7. Mariah Changco (Hartnell) 20:15.6; 8. Nerina Campos (Hartnell) 20:17.9 ; 9. Joanna Macias (Hartnell) 20:21.7; 10. Leslee Patino (De Anza) 20:26.2.
College women's basketball
More than flame flickering this year for the Otters
By John Devine
SEASIDE: Taped onto each players locker was a print out of the projections from a coaches poll on where each team will finish in conference play.
At the bottom of the California Collegiate Athletic Association women's basketball standings stood CSU-Monterey Bay.
"I understand," CSUMB coach CJ Pace said. "We didn't show much last year. But it fuels me and the players that are back. It gets the flame going a little more. The kids have taken offense to that.''
Of course, the projected finish isn't a surprise, given the fact that the Otters won one game last winter in a painful first season for Pace.
"When you win one game, it's not fun," Pace said. "I have a rule where we don't talk about last year. We're not living in the past. We're going forward. We need a fresh mindset going in."
Rapid turnarounds don't happen overnight. It's a process. Growing pains will continue this year for the Otters, who added just five new players, while retaining eight from last season.
"I didn't want to settle for pieces," Pace said. "I wanted the right pieces. I'm a firm believer the right pieces will come for the right reasons. I'm already seeing that in our next recruiting class."
Plus, Pace saw enough in last year's group to see the upside in a unit determined to be a part of the solution in a program that hasn't had a winning season in six years.
"Trying to keep the kids motivated was tough," Pace said. "We were fighting against the old culture. At the end of the day, we're trying to preach toughness, not laying down to the name of the jersey."
A former University of South Carolina basketball guard, Pace called last year the most challenging of her career as a player or coach.
Hired just a few months before the season, there wasn't a lot of time to evaluate what was returning. Arriving in June meant a dried up recruiting trail with a limited budget.
"Not having the same resources is an excuse," Pace said. "There are plenty of basketball players. It's a matter of us going out and finding them. Finding what fits for what we want to accomplish.''
There's no moment, not even the win, to use as a building block into this year. In part, because Pace spent the off season implementing a new offensive system, referring to it as a fresh start.
"That win was a magical night for us," Pace said. "But we're not building off of it. This is a different crew with a different look. We're trying to create a new way of doing things here."
Yet, there were teaching moments last year. Pushing through their struggles became as much mental as physical for the Otters.
"We struggled with it," sophomore guard Serena Toney said. "Trying to finish out each came became a mental black. We showed in practice we can do this. We had to learn from our mistakes."
Because the Otters are in transition with the roster and system, Pace likened it to having all freshman in terms of learning a new offense and developing a new attitude.
"I knew what I stepped into when I took the job," Pace said. "Of course, I expected more than a win. It's a process, piece-by-piece. We don't have all the pieces. In time, we will."
To fill out the roster last year, Pace brought in Toney, who came to CSUMB to play soccer, to serve as a practice player.
"She stopped by the gym and asked if she could practice with us," Pace said. "Watching her after one week, I'm thinking she's not bad. She draws charges and is physical. She's an attitude."
Halfway through the season, Toney was seeing time on the court, providing the Otters with a fearless defender, making an imprint with her tenacious attitude.
"Soccer wasn't the right fit for me here," Toney said. "I met a girl on the basketball team that is now my best friend. When I started practicing with them, I realized how much I missed the sport."
Toney's first start was memorable, scoring 16 points. The 5-foot-5 guard ended up starting the teams final 15 games, finishing second in 3-point goals with 18.
"She came back in great shape and is shooting the ball a lot better," Pace said. "Serena's a lock down defender."
So is Camille Parker, who started all 26 games last year for CSUMB, leading the team in rebounds at 7.8, while producing five double-doubles.
The 5-foot-8 Parker was forced to play in the paint last year because of the Otters lack of size and depth at the post. The expectation is she will move out to the wing.
"She has a great basketball mind and is a high IQ kid," Pace said. "She has the ability to put the ball on the floor and create shots. She has great vision on the floor."
Pace loves the leadership being displayed by senior forward Yolanda Ealy, who dropped in 9.9 points a game last year. She led team in scoring in 15 games.
"She has a little chippiness to her," Pace said. "She wants a different feel. She's spreading that around the floor. Her attitude is contagious. She brings a lot of energy."
As does sophomore point guard Chyna Dews, who found herself running the offense last year as a 5-foot-3 freshman before seeing her season cut short because of an injury.
"What's different this year is our athleticism and size," Pace said. "Last year our tallest player was a walk-on soccer player. We lacked height and toughness. It's a different vibe this year."
Pace did land some size this winter, starting with Sidni Wise-Wright, a 6-foot redshirt freshman who transferred from Sonoma State.
In addition, Sylvia Vartazarian is a junior college transfer that stands 6-feet, and creates mismatches on smaller forwards with her ability to get to the basket.
"We're a different looking team this year," Toney said. "No one really knows who we are. We've seen the coaches poll. We're going to show people we don't deserve to be in that position."
One of Pace's prize recruits includes point guard Katie Fitzgerald, who played four years of varsity basketball at CIF power Mater Dei in southern California.
"Coming from a highly touted program, Katie was given all the tools for the next level," Pace said. "She brings a high IQ and scoring ability. She's a solid piece to the foundation we're building."
As sombering as a 1-25 season can be, Pace saw improvement, a desire to fight and restore pride in the program from the eight players that have returned.
"My kids showed signs of resilience," Pace said. "We were in games. We often came up a possession or two short. We could have handled things differently. It's part of the growth."
What Pace has this year is a group of players with an edge. While the discomfort of last season isn't allowed to be talked about, it hasn't been forgotten.
"We'll take some hits early," Pace said. "But we'll shake it off and it will make us hungrier. We have a sense of greediness. Last year left a sour taste. We're going to surprise a lot of people."
Chris Morgan
By John Devine
PACIFIC GROVE -- Chris Morgan pondered whether this was the right time. What he concluded with is it's the right decision.
Citing family and personal reasons, Morgan has stepped down as the head football coach for Pacific Grove High, ending an 11-year run.
"There has been a lot of discussion and sole searching," Morgan said. "I wanted to hold out a little longer. Its all I know. But there's a lot going on in my mind. I just decided this is a good time."
Morgan led Pacific Grove to an undefeated Santa Lucia Division title last season, and a return to the playoffs after a three year absence.
Over his 11 years at helm, he took the program to three league titles and a pair of final appearances in the Central Coast Section playoffs.
The Breakers won 68 games in Morgan's 11 seasons, winning 10 or more games three straight years between 2014-2016.
"My daughter is going into high school," Morgan said. "She plays volleyball. My time would be very limited. If I'm gong to put a bunch of demands on kids, I have to hold my end of the bargain."
Morgan has also been dealing with a detached retina for three years, having put off the surgery so he could continue coaching.
"I've got to stop putting that off," Morgan said. "I want to watch my daughter play volleyball. I just didn't think I could give the time and effort required to do this job the correct way."
Morgan has turned the program around, not once, but twice in his 11 years, as the Breakers have a talented freshman class to build off of last year's title winning season.
When he took the job in mid-June 11 years ago, the Breakers won to games. Over the course of the next four years, the program improved in the win column each year, reaching the section title.
"By the time the freshman that came in with me were seniors, we went to the playoffs," Morgan said. "We came in together and had a plan. We started building the culture we wanted. And it worked."
Having arrived after coaching at his alma mater in South Tahoe, Morgan estimated he's been a coach or player for 35 plus years.
"I told some of the kids I still have a lot of football left in me," Morgan said. "I just can't walk away from it. But I have to get myself in a position, support my family take care of stuff I've put off."
Morgan isn't ruling out helping the program in an assistant capacity should the new head coach have interest in his services.
"I'm still going to be around the Pacific Grove athletic department," said Morgan, who is a teacher on campus. "If the new coach wants some help. I'm still on campus. I'd love to help out."
Morgan knows of at least two individual outside the area that have expressed interest in the position, as well as potential candidates in the area.
"One of the questions I have been approached with is does it come with a teaching position," Morgan said. "I don't have the answer. Hopefully they will find someone soon."
Morgan initial season at Pacific Grove was a struggle because he wasn't hired until mid June, leaving the program with no spring ball and limited off season to learn a new program.
Yet, the memories are countless for Morgan. From reclaiming The Shoe in 2015, to going undefeated twice in league play to erupting for 77 points in a playoff win over Carmel.
"You know the memory that stands out to me was beating Scotts Valley on a last second field goal (Noah Ryan) in the playoffs to reach the section finals," Morgan said.
That and connection he still have with players that have come through the program over the last decade.
"When you get a text from a kid after college telling me his new coach, or a wedding invitation, that's special," Morgan said. "That tell me the experience kept going after football was done."
Carmel-St. Mary's, Albany boys basketball
The Panthers are no strangers to playing in March, having reached the CIF State Northern California divisional tournament six of the last eight years.
This is St. Mary's second consecutive appearance in the NorCal finals appearance, having played for a Division IV title last year.
Along its path to the NorCal Division III finals this year have been wins over Central Coast Section opponents Half Moon Bay and Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Of particularly interest to Carmel is the Panthers 72-50 domination of Half Moon Bay, a program it beat twice this year, including 56-52 in the CCS Division IV semifinals.
The Panthers do match up size wise with Carmel, with four players standing 6-feet-4 or taller, and have elusive guards on the outside that can shoot.
Among their notable wins includes a decision over Mission, who defeated them in last year's NorCal title game deny them a shot at state title.
The No. 4 seeded Panthers are 11-2 at home this year, with both losses to teams that are still alive or played in the NorCal semifinals in their respective divisions.
St. Mary's has won 25 games in back-to-back seasons.
Chris Morgan
By John Devine
PACIFIC GROVE -- Chris Morgan pondered whether this was the right time. What he concluded with is it's the right decision.
Citing family and personal reasons, Morgan has stepped down as the head football coach for Pacific Grove High, ending an 11-year run.
"There has been a lot of discussion and sole searching," Morgan said. "I wanted to hold out a little longer. Its all I know. But there's a lot going on in my mind. I just decided this is a good time."
Morgan led Pacific Grove to an undefeated Santa Lucia Division title last season, and a return to the playoffs after a three year absence.
Over his 11 years at helm, he took the program to three league titles and a pair of final appearances in the Central Coast Section playoffs.
The Breakers won 68 games in Morgan's 11 seasons, winning 10 or more games three straight years between 2014-2016.
"My daughter is going into high school," Morgan said. "She plays volleyball. My time would be very limited. If I'm gong to put a bunch of demands on kids, I have to hold my end of the bargain."
Morgan has also been dealing with a detached retina for three years, having put off the surgery so he could continue coaching.
"I've got to stop putting that off," Morgan said. "I want to watch my daughter play volleyball. I just didn't think I could give the time and effort required to do this job the correct way."
Morgan has turned the program around, not once, but twice in his 11 years, as the Breakers have a talented freshman class to build off of last year's title winning season.
When he took the job in mid-June 11 years ago, the Breakers won to games. Over the course of the next four years, the program improved in the win column each year, reaching the section title.
"By the time the freshman that came in with me were seniors, we went to the playoffs," Morgan said. "We came in together and had a plan. We started building the culture we wanted. And it worked."
Having arrived after coaching at his alma mater in South Tahoe, Morgan estimated he's been a coach or player for 35 plus years.
"I told some of the kids I still have a lot of football left in me," Morgan said. "I just can't walk away from it. But I have to get myself in a position, support my family take care of stuff I've put off."
Morgan isn't ruling out helping the program in an assistant capacity should the new head coach have interest in his services.
"I'm still going to be around the Pacific Grove athletic department," said Morgan, who is a teacher on campus. "If the new coach wants some help. I'm still on campus. I'd love to help out."
Morgan knows of at least two individual outside the area that have expressed interest in the position, as well as potential candidates in the area.
"One of the questions I have been approached with is does it come with a teaching position," Morgan said. "I don't have the answer. Hopefully they will find someone soon."
Morgan initial season at Pacific Grove was a struggle because he wasn't hired until mid June, leaving the program with no spring ball and limited off season to learn a new program.
Yet, the memories are countless for Morgan. From reclaiming The Shoe in 2015, to going undefeated twice in league play to erupting for 77 points in a playoff win over Carmel.
"You know the memory that stands out to me was beating Scotts Valley on a last second field goal (Noah Ryan) in the playoffs to reach the section finals," Morgan said.
That and connection he still have with players that have come through the program over the last decade.
"When you get a text from a kid after college telling me his new coach, or a wedding invitation, that's special," Morgan said. "That tell me the experience kept going after football was done."
Carmel-St. Mary's, Albany boys basketball
The Panthers are no strangers to playing in March, having reached the CIF State Northern California divisional tournament six of the last eight years.
This is St. Mary's second consecutive appearance in the NorCal finals appearance, having played for a Division IV title last year.
Along its path to the NorCal Division III finals this year have been wins over Central Coast Section opponents Half Moon Bay and Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Of particularly interest to Carmel is the Panthers 72-50 domination of Half Moon Bay, a program it beat twice this year, including 56-52 in the CCS Division IV semifinals.
The Panthers do match up size wise with Carmel, with four players standing 6-feet-4 or taller, and have elusive guards on the outside that can shoot.
Among their notable wins includes a decision over Mission, who defeated them in last year's NorCal title game deny them a shot at state title.
The No. 4 seeded Panthers are 11-2 at home this year, with both losses to teams that are still alive or played in the NorCal semifinals in their respective divisions.
St. Mary's has won 25 games in back-to-back seasons.
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