August 29-September 28, 2007 Volume 3 Issue 1
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2007 RIO GRANDE VALLEY
FOOTBALL
IS
High School
STEROID TESTING
PREVIEW
The Right Thing
To Do?
Can the Make it FOUR In A Row?
YELLOWJACKETS
Ronnie Villalpando Edcouch-Elsa RB
Joey Perez Edinburg QB
HSSM’S
Awaerasdons
Pre-S lections Football Se
Sean Messick Harlingen South QB
Schedules am Team by Te
INSIDE:
Who’s Number One? You’ll be surprised...
Pg.4
District by District from 32-1A to 32-5A
Pg.9
Robert Vela 1945-2007
Pg.18
Game
www.hssmonline.net
Contents Dylan De Leon Weslaco QB
4 Who’s No.1?
Football in the RGV begins with a preview of which team has it all in 2007.
9 The Predictions
Get a sneak peak of which team will finish as the conference champions in the region.
23 OnThe Sidelines
He was a true Bobcat who never gave up on the sidelines.
August 29, 2007 Vol.3 Issue 1
18 Robert Vela, 1945-2007 A coaching legend dies. HSSM takes a look back on his career.
32“Inside Sports” with Jason
Texas Lawmakers vote on mandatory steroid testing. Are schools ready for this?
Gilbert Leal Mercedes Tigers Head Coach
35 OneOnOne Interview
Chicago Bear football player talks to HSSM about his career and Super Bowl experience.
Weslaco H.S. Head Coach Tony Villarreal and his No.1 running back in South Texas, Mishak Rivas (HSSMImages)
Weslaco
Panthers Take Top Spot in Valley
Sometimes polls mean nothing. Sometimes polls mean something. It’s like getting something for nothing. Or, nothing for something? This will be the last time that High School Sports Magazine will ever rank a team in the polls. “We will let the HSSM Fans vote for the top teams,” says David “Touchdown Dave” Amador, publisher www.HSSMONLINE.net 4
HSSM dedicates this issue to the late Robert Vela, head coach of Edinburg HS. Mando Del Toro-Weslaco
Dylan De Leon-Weslaco
Joel Franklin-Weslaco
Jerry Espinoza-Weslaco
of High School Sports Magazine. “Fans will go to www.hssmonline.net and vote for the top ten teams every week. Just click and pick. It’s that easy. The more you vote, the more your team gets picked,” adds Amador. “It will be exciting for the HSSM Fans.” But in the mean time, here’s the last ranking of the year by a staff members from High School Sports Magazine. HSSM’s Pre-Season Top 12 teams from the Rio Grande Valley puts the Weslaco Panthers in the Number one spot. The Panthers return nine starters on offense along with HSSM’s 32-5A Most Valuable Player, senior Mishak Rivas. He’s only 5’7” and weighs 160 lbs, but it’s his speed and quickness on the field that should keep defenders on their toes early on. Rivas rushed for 1,234 yards and averaged 10.2 yards a game as a sophomore and then he stepped it up a notch by rushing 2,029 yards and averaged a whopping 11.9 yards a carry. He was named to the Class 5A Associated Press 2nd team in 2006. High School Sports Magazine ranks the Panthers as the team to beat in the Rio Grande Valley. In the second place slot, the Rio Grande City Rattlers will finally clinch their first 30-5A district title. While many polls doubted the Rattlers in 2006, they surprised everyone by clinching the fourth place playoff spot. Head coach Jesus Lozano enters his second season after going 7-4 and with 38 returning lettermen, Rattler fans will be tailgating every Friday night with “Pachangas” before the game. In the third place slot, the Harlingen South Hawks could take over the number slot in Week No.3 after the Panthers travel to Edcouch-Elsa to play a non-district match-up. “Our expectation level is definitely high here at Harlingen South since our baseball team made it to the finals,” said
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW 6
Messick. The Hawks hired Bay City former head coach Alan Cherry if he can lead a team with 18 starters back on offense and defense, then the Hawks could advance past the fourth round. And finally, here’s a team that has had three undefeated regular seasons, three straight 32-4A titles, four straight Class 4A Division playoff appearances, and they go by a nickname “La Maquina Amarilla.” Head coach Joe Solis understands the thirst these EdcouchElsa Yellowjackets fans crave. “They are die-hard Yellowjacket fans,” says Solis. Can the No. 4 Yellowjackets make it four district titles in a row? “With Mercedes and Mission building solid programs, we have to be well-prepared each week,” adds Solis. The final six teams will either contend for a playoff spot or district title. The biggest upset No.9 Los Fresnos and No.1 Weslaco could endure in 2007 will be losses to No. 10 San Benito. “We have a great team coming back and these players have worked hard,” says Mario Pena, head coach of the Greyhounds.
HSSM TOP
1.
12
TEAMS (Plus Record Finish)
Weslaco 13-1
Head coach Tony Villarreal will be looking to take the Panthers to more than four rounds deep into the playoffs.
2.
Rio Grande City 11-2
3.
Harlingen South 13-1
4.
Edcouch-Elsa 12-1
Last year the Rio Grande City Rattlers surprised everyone with their first playoff appearance in more than four years.
Alan Cherry takes over as the new head coach and a talented Hawk team with a proven quarterback to lead this team.
Can the Yellowjackets make it four 32-4A District titles in a row? Can the Yellowjackets go undefeated in district? The Jackets will host Mercedes at home.
5. Leroy Zamora San Benito
Kevin Escobedo San Benito
Mercedes 10-2
If the Tigers beat the Yellowjackets in Edcouch, then the Tigers will be crowned the new 32-4A champs.
6.
Rio Hondo 11-2
7.
Port Isabel 12-1
8.
Mission HS 8-3
9.
Los Fresnos 8-3
Head coach Gus Cavazos says that this team is special and these Bobcats are the best he’s seen.
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The Tarpons will be loaded with experience on offense and head coach Monty Stumbaugh will be looking for another title.
Head coach Tom Lee would love to give the Tigers and Yellowjackets all the headaches they can handle in 32-4A.
Raul Rivas San Benito
Jason Suarez San Benito
Head coach Scott Ford is now the new athletic director. Can the Falcons win back-to-back district titles in 2007?
10. San Benito HS 9-3
SB
The San Benito Greyhounds return nine starters on offense and four on defense. Pena says “they will be better.”
11. McAllen Memorial 7-4 M Head coach Bill Littleton will continue his playoff streak of three in a row in 2007. The Stangs’ will be loaded.
12. La Joya
7-4
LJ
Leonel Casas has returned to the sidelines as the head football coach with the La Joya Coyotes. Tradition and enrollment will give the Coyotes another playoff spot in 30-5A.
Getting To Know his Hawks is new head football coach Alan Cherry from Harlingen South. The Hawks are the third ranked team in South Texas and are favored to win the 31-5A conference in 2007. (HSSMImages)
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW 8
2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
www.hssmonline.net
32-5AAAAA Conference
T
2007 PRESEASON
ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
1. WESLACO Head coach Tony Villarreal of the Weslaco Panthers knows that with his returning stateranked 1600m relay team in the lineup, speed will give the Panthers a run for a district title and a possible run at the state title. The Weslaco Panthers boast one of the finest weight room facilities in the state and the Panther’s off-season should add more strength to most of his players.
2. LOS FRESNOS This year’s offensive line is bigger and…of course, bigger. The Falcons will turn to Danny Silva to lead the team at quarterback. The conference championship should be decided on November 2nd at home against Weslaco. In the off season, Scott Ford was named athletic director.
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he 32-5A Conference took advantage of the its four playoff spots and all four teams faired well in the state playoffs. Last year’s State 5A Division II Regional Finalists, Los Fresnos won the 32-5A title and made a good run at the state title behind head coach Scott Ford. The Falcons lost to state finalist, Austin Westlake. The Weslaco Panthers headed north to the Alamodome and lost a heart breaker to Laredo United 38-34, while Brownsville Lopez surprised the Valley by making the playoffs in their first Class 5A appearance by clinching the fourth place slot. San Benito, the third place finisher lost its battle to Harlingen South in the first round 21-16. In 2007, look for Weslaco, Los Fresnos, San Benito, and yes, Brownsville Lopez to be back in the playoffs again.
3. SAN BENITO
With a new hip and a brand new Harley-Davidson, San Benito Greyhound, and now a broken femur, coach Mario Pena will be out for 10 weeks. The Greyhounds will be a much-improved team from last year’s 7-4 overall record.
4. BROWNSVILLE LOPEZ “Nobody picked us except High School Sports Magazine to be in the playoffs,” said head coach Valentin Montemayor after clinching the final playoff spot in 2006. Expect this year’s Lobos to be better than last year’s 5-5 playoff team. Remember this name: Jorge Silva. Remember his position: quarterback.
5. BROWNSVILLE HANNA Will new head coach Tom Chavez of the Brownsville Hanna Eagles make a difference in 2007? Yes. Will he lead his Golden Eagles to a playoff berth in 2007? Maybe. That’s the magic Chavez brings to Brownsville and look for Chavez to give every 325A opponent a run for their money.
6. BROWNSVILLE RIVERA First, he led the Porter Cowboys to their first ever playoff win, then he bolted to Harlingen South and led the Hawks to the Class 5A Division II Regional finals in 2006. The Brownsville Rivera Raiders have been out of the playoffs since 2001 and with new head coach Jim Helms at the helm, hmm.
7. BROWNSVILLE PACE Brownsville Pace head coach Rene Medrano, will need to refocus if he expects to lead the Vikings to a conference playoff spot in 2007 after last year’s 3-7 season. With only five offensive starters back, the Vikings will miss another playoff year.
8. BROWNSVILLE PORTER
Eloy Atkinson Los Fresnos
Mario Benavides Los Fresnos
Robert Valdez finally got his wish: a 5A football head coaching job. Where? Ah, at Brownsville Porter. “It’s a good thing,” says Valdez. Will this be enough to improve Porter’s 1-9 season from 2006? You bet! Valdez is no stranger to the playoffs too. “We will take one game at a time,” he adds. The Porter Cowboys meet McAllen HS on August 31st at home. First win: Porter 24 McAllen 6.
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW 9
Mishak Rivas OFFENSE Quarterback Dylan DeLeon-Weslaco Running Backs Mishak Rivas-Weslaco Danny Mendez-Los Fresnos Wide Receivers Eric Hernandez-Weslaco Angel Martinez-San Benito Tight End Daniel Lozano-Weslaco Offensive Linemen Nick Rodriguez-Bro Hanna Mike Sanchez-Lopez HS Eloy Atkinson-Los Fresnos Mario Benavides-Los Fresnos Alex Loya-Weslaco
DEFENSE Defense Linemen Favio Balladares-Bro Hanna Wally Capistran-Bro Pace Jesus Abrego-San Benito Julio Martinez-Weslaco Linebackers Gus Hengeller-Porter Kevin Escobedo-San Benito Mando Del Toro-Weslaco Defensive Backs Luis Charles-Los Fresnos Jose Luis Juarez-Bro Pace Abel Aguirre-San Benito Jerry Espinoza-Weslaco
SPECIALISTS Placekicker Giovanni Briones -Porter Punter Luis Garcia-Hanna Return Specialist Mishak Rivas-Weslaco
PRESEASON AWARDS
Offensive MVP Mishak Rivas-Weslaco Defensive MVP Kevin Escobedo-San Benito Coach of the Year Tony Villarreal-Weslaco
Harlingen Cardinals Ready. Pictured front l-r are Chad Reininger, Anthiny Rios, and Erick Ortiz. Back l-r are Joshua Vilt, Jordan Salas, Jonathon Davis, Michael Aguilar, Rigo Simental, Alex Portales, Daniel Carmona, and Ryan Koite. (HSSMImages)
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
31-5AAAAA Conference
1. Harlingen South
The Harlingen South Hawks are the clear favorites to win the 31-5A title in 2007, especially with 18 starters back on offense and defense. Senior Sean Messick will lead the Hawks at quarterback and hopefully new head coach Alan Cherry will be able to bring some “championship magic” from Bay City. The Hawks finished 6-1 in the 31-5A conference in 2006 and then lost to San Marcos in the Class 5A Division II regional finals.
2. Edinburg HS
This could be the year the Edinburg Bobcats bounced back into the playoffs. Joey Perez returns at quarterback after struggling most of 2006 with a nagging ankle injury he obtained in summer basketball. He has put on some weight and now stands at 6’0 and weighs 180lbs. Interim head coach and first assistant Joey Caceres will need to called the right plays in order to get the Bobcats back into the playoffs.
3. Edinburg North HS
Head coach Roy Garza knows that his coaching job will be under the gun if his Edinburg North Cougars do not make the playoffs in 2007. The Cougars return eight starters on offense with Randy Ramirez back at quarterback to try to improve from last season’s 2-8 record. In 2005, the Cougars finished 3-6 and 2004
Chris Garza-Ed North
Manny Salinas-Ed North
ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
4. Harlingen HS The final fourth place playoff spot will be a toss up. Needless to say, tradition will lead the Harlingen Cardinals back to the state playoffs in 2007 under Cardinal former defensive coordinator, Manny Gomez. Quarterback John Murphy returns with much experience, along with five starters back on offense.
5. PSJA HS
OFFENSE
Do not be surprised if the PSJA Bears sneak in and clinch the third or fourth place slots. The Bears will be looking for a quarterback in 2007 but like head coach Mel Rios says, “all my quarterbacks are seasoned players and they usually get their starts as seniors.”
6. PSJA North HS Orlando Garcia, PSJA North head football coach enjoyed his magical 11-0 season and the outright 31-5A District title in 2006. In a conference where tradition is rich with pride and wins, the Raiders could surprise their district foes if Garcia finds a quarterback to run his offense.
7. PSJA Memorial HS The Wolverines enjoyed four straight Class 4A playoff years from 2001-2005. The Wolverines have the size upfront, but going 0-7 in their first Class 5A is not pleasing with head coach Joe Sanchez. Look for a much improved team.
8. Edinburg Economedes HS Will this be Oscar Salinas’ last year as the Jags head coach? With only two starters back on offense from 2006, the Jaguars could be in for another long season.
Juan Rocha-Ed North
Sean Messick
HSSM IMAGES
(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
was worst at 1-9. Special teams will win games. Look for the Cougars to finish third, barely.
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wo new head football coaches will roam the sidelines at Boggus Stadium this year. Manny Gomez takes over at Harlingen High School while Alan Cherry of Bay City becomes the fourth football coach at Harlingen South High School. Will the birds fly in 2007 under Gomez and Cherry? In Edinburg, head coach Joey Caceres takes over after Robert Vela passed away recently. Vela told HSSM that they could be contenders in 2007.
2007 PRESEASON
Quarterback Sean Messick-Harlingen South Running Backs Alvin Davis-Economedes R.J. Maldonado-PSJA Wide Receivers Angel Cantu-Harlingen Peter Maldonado-Har South Tight End Anthony Carrizales-PSJA Offensive Linemen Michael Palacios-PSJA Mem Juan Cortez-Har South Mike Morales-Ed North Eddie Cisneros-PSJA North
DEFENSE Defense Linemen Michael Giles-PSJA North Marcos Martinez-PSJA Mem Ryan Reyna-Economedes Joey Sanchez-Har South Linebackers Mike Garza-Economedes David Torres-Ed North Jesse Diaz-PSJA North Defensive Backs Eric Garcia-PSJA Christian Martinez-Har South Armando Flores-PSJA Mem Danny Reyes-PSJA North
SPECIALISTS Placekicker Miguel Monterrubio-PSJA Punter Randy Ramirez-Ed North Return Specialist Josh Ayala-Ed North
PRESEASON AWARDS
Mel Salinas-Ed North
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
11
Offensive MVP Sean Messick-Har South Defensive MVP Michael Giles-PSJA North Coach of the Year Joey Caceres-Edinburg
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2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
30-5AAAAA Conference
2007 PRESEASON
ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
1. Rio Grande City HS The Rio Grande City Rattlers are back and with more talent too. Second-year head coach Jesus Lozano finished the 30-5A Conference schedule at 3-3 and clinched the final playoff spot. Lozano should be excited with junior quarterback R.J. Alaniz, a 6’2” player who passed for more than 1,000 yards as a sophomore. The Rattlers also boast size upfront to protect Alaniz. District Champs? You bet!
2. La Joya HS When Leonel Casas smiled when HSSM asked him if he would ever coach again and his response was “I love what I’m doing’, that’s when you begin to wonder what’s he up too. Oh, and how do things change so quickly. A thirst for more victories, the La Joya Coyotes will emerge from the hills.
4. McAllen Rowe HS
Head coach Gary Lauer applied for the Harlingen South job and was turned down. The Warriors have been begging for mercy after disappointing seasons in 2005 (1-8), and 2006 (2-8). With quarterback Michael Enriquez back after passing for more than 1,700 yards, this could be the year for Lauer and his Warriors.
5. Sharyland HS
The Sharyland Rattlers are back and they could be better than the 2003 Class 4A Regional semifinal team too. It was not easy for head coach Fred Sanchez to watch his five straight playoff appearances come to a halt last year. Let’s blame 2006 on the newly installed field turf and the bigscreen scoreboard as the major distractions for keeping them out of the playoffs. The Rattlers will surprise.
6. Donna HS
Head coach Bill Littleton wants to make it three playoff appearances in a row in 2007. After McAllen Memorial lost to San Antonio McArthur
Robert Guzman-Donna
If new head coach Manny Moreno can post two victories in his non-conference schedule, then the Donna Redskins will be thinking playoffs. They will play Edinburg, Harlingen, Weslaco, and PSJA North in that order before opening the conference at Rio Grande City. How can a playoff team from 2006 finish last in 2007? After posting three losing seasons in 2003 (37), 2004 (5-5), and 2005 (3-7) the McHi Bulldogs return three offensive starters. Will this be head coach Tony Harris’s last hurrah? In the off season, like Lauer, both spent looking for jobs elsewhere. “It’s a free country,” says MISD Athletic director Poppy Rodriguez. “They can apply anywhere they want.” Hmmm? On the bright side, Manny Udor should keep opponents off balance with his 4.48 speed at the running back slot until Harris finds a proven quarterback. On the line, Scott Inskeep (6’4” 275lbs) and defensive linebacker Sam Weisman (6’0” 185lbs) should provided some depth at key positions. The Bulldogs travel to Porter on August 31st looking for their first win of the season.
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Michael Enriguez OFFENSE Quarterback Michael Enriquez-McA Rowe Running Backs Armando Garza-RGC Manny Udor-McAllen HS Wide Receivers David Adame-Sharyland Stephen Saenz-RGC Tight End Alex Chalk-McAllen Rowe Offensive Linemen Rolando Parra-Donna Andy Santos-La Joya Scott Inskeep-McAllen Tris Saucier-McAllen Rowe
DEFENSE
7. McAllen HS
3. McAllen Memorial HS
Albert Chavez-Donna
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(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
35-34 in the third round of the 2006 State 5A Division II playoffs, the Mustangs are loaded once again and could be even better. Quarterback Jesse Ramos (6’1, 175lbs) gets the call with a talented Joseph Granchelli taking over at the running back slot.
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Defense Linemen Tony Farias-Sharyland Eduardo Rangel-RGC Jose Umanor-Donna Jerry David-McA Memorial Linebackers Robert Curl-McA Memorial Richard Cantu-La Joya Sam Weisman-McAllen Defensive Backs Joe Moya-La Joya Eric Carrizales-Sharyland Gilbert Martinez-RGC Sergio Longoria-McAllen
SPECIALISTS Placekicker Martin Pena-McA Rowe Punter Sergio Castillo-La Joya Return Specialist Cameron Gatling-McA Rowe
PRESEASON AWARDS Offensive MVP R.J. Alaniz-RGC Defensive MVP Robert Curl-McA Memorial Coach of the Year Leonel Casas
HSSM IMAGES
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he Rattlers? The Rattlers will be even tougher in 2007 with a talented quarterback and a backfield that could produce two 1,000-yard runners. On the east side of the conference, Donna will be led by Manuel Moreno, who took over as the new athletic director and head football coach. The Redskins will be challenged early on as they play probably the toughest non-district schedule yet. Their last playoff appearance was in 2004. And finally, McAllen Nikki Rowe head coach Gary Lauer would love to see his Warriors make the playoffs in 2007.
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2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
29-5AAAAA Conference
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(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
1. Laredo United HS
The Laredo United Longhorns have been to the state playoffs in 2006, 2005, 2004 and winning two area championships. The Longhorns and David Sanchez are the mecca of football in this western city along the borders of Nuevo Laredo. The Longhorns will have to rely on their six defensive starters returning if they expect to defend their 29-5A Conference title.
2. Laredo Alexander HS
This could be the year that Laredo Alexander makes a huge impact in South Texas, especially with their huge offensive linemen. Head coach Joel Lopez will enjoy 28 returning lettermen along with his son, Jerry, who passed for 2,807 yards. La Joya stopped the Bulldogs in the first round of the State 5A Division I playoffs by the score of 45-29.
3. Laredo Cigarroa HS
4. Laredo Martin HS
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ne of these days head coach David Sanchez of Laredo United will head east and coach in the Rio Grande Valley, but for now, why should he when keeps beating his Valley opponents year in and year out. Last year, the Longhorns disposed of Rio Grande City 48-7 and then eliminated Weslaco 40-37, before falling to San Antonio Reagan 72-48. Can the Longhorns do it again in 2007? Maybe. Laredo Cigarroa and Laredo Alexander, along with Laredo Martin just might do the impossible: dethrone the defending champs.
Another team that can create havoc for the United Longhorns will be the Laredo Cigarroa Toros. The Toros made the playoffs last season but lost to McAllen H.S. in the state playoffs. The Toros return quarterback Carlos Cruz III who passed for more than 1,500 yards and he also rushed for 1,000 plus on the ground. Bring it on Toros! Toros! Toros!
Laredo Martin was the surprise team in 2006 and head coach was proud to have led his Tigers to the state playoffs too. “I’m just proud of these guys,” head coach Don Davis told HSSM. The Tigers went 7-4, 6-2 overall and they should be a muchimproved team with five starters back on offense.
5. Laredo Alexander HS
Don’t be surprise if the Eagle Pass Winn Mavericks make a run for the State 5A playoffs with their nine offensive starters and ten defensive starters back to improve their 1-9 record from 2006. Head coach David Charles is excited about this season with running back Randy Garza in the linemen. The speedy running back is expected to run as fast as the Maverick horse.
6. Eagle Pass Winn HS
If the Eagle Pass Eagles can make things happen with returning players QB Joel Cano and RB Edgar Beattie, then head coach Tom Gonzalez will enjoy a much improved season with nine starters back on offense
7. Eagle Pass HS
As the list gets longer, so do the predictions. The United South Panthers return a team composed of eight offensive starters and head coach Joe Sendejar has made progress with his Panthers these past two seasons. In 2005, the Panthers went 0-10 and 5-5 in 2006. Can the Panthers make the playoffs? They missed it by one game last year.
6. Laredo United South HS
Like the Winn Mavericks, the LBJ Wolves would love to improve from their 1-9, 0-8 finish in 2006. Head coach Mike Medina knows that they could better but offensively, the Wolves need to explode with a game plan that can keep them competitive with teams like United, Alexander, and Cigaorra.
7. Laredo Nixon HS
The Laredo Nixon Mustangs made the playoffs in 1990, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005. Playoffs? Maybe.
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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Can They Do It Again in 2007? Both Laredo Cigarroa Toros and Laredo Martin made the playoffs in 2006 and both lost in the first round to Valley teams McAllen HS and McAllen Memorial. Both teams will be more experienced.
2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
www.hssmonline.net
32-4AAAA Conference
2007 PRESEASON
ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
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(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
1. Edcouch-Elsa HS
The Yellowjackets will have the home field advantage when they meet the Mercedes Tigers on October 19th and both teams should enter this game at 3-0. The Jackets are loaded with size at linebacker slots and with a new quarterback, Erick Nino standing at 6’1 and weighing 190lbs, many will wonder how good he will be on the field. The Jackets will run, pass, and they will hit you hard on defense.
2. Mercedes HS
In the off season, the school board made sure that head football coach Gilbert Leal would stay put by offering him another year and more pay after Harlingen South tried to lure him on. A new $10 million dollar school bond was passed and now Leal will get a brand new athletic complex and a new stadium? Oh, did we mention that he knows how to feed his Tigers.
3. Mission HS
Mission is beginning to enjoy the Class 4A ranks. The Eagles have the talent to win it all in 2007. Head coach Tom Lee would love to beat Edcouch-Elsa at
Alex Cisneros Ed-Elsa
Tom Landry Stadium. He returns the district’s best quarterback, Nathan Salazar and OL Alex Vera (6’3” 345lbs).
Willy Zavala-Mercedes
4. Mission Veterans HS
Carlos Longoria would love to see his Mission Veterans Memorial Patriots make the playoffs in 2007. On October 5th they host Mercedes and then play Mission October 12th at Tom Landry Stadium. Win these two games and the Pats will be headed in the right direction.
OFFENSE
5. Weslaco East HS
Weslaco East head coach Armando Cuellar started this program six years ago and has yet to lead the Wildcats to the state playoffs. The Wildcats went 3-7 in 2006 and 2-8 in 2005, and 4-6 in 2004. This year could be even worst for Weslaco East as they return five starters on offense. Returning are OG Frank Ginez, OT Donald Moore, and LB Ricky Alaniz.
6. Roma HS
Max Habecker was named new head football coach for the Roma Gladiators and he will inherit a team that finished fourth place in 324A last season. He feels optimistic about the season. They return six offensive and eight defensive starters back in 2007. “We will be competitive,” says Habecker.
7. Valley View HS
“I think we can we some games this year,” said new head football coach Dave Evans of Valley View High School. The Tigers went 010 in their first year of football in 32-4A. On the other hand, Evans knows how to win. He gets another chance.
Art Tanguma Ed-Elsa
Alex Trevino Quarterback Nathan Salazar-Mission Running Backs Ronnie Villalpando-Ed-Elsa Danny Pena-Mission Wide Receivers Eddie Tovar-Mission Vets Ronnie Perez-Ed-Elsa Tight End Aaron Tanguma-Ed-Elsa Offensive Linemen Alex Vera-Mission Jesus Alvarez-Mission E.J. Castaneda-Mercedes Donlad Moore-Weslaco East
DEFENSE Defense Linemen Severiano Garza-Roma Fernando Torres-Ed-Elsa Jacob Rodriguez-Miss Vets Melvin Valles-Mercedes Linebackers Tony Sanchez-Ed-Elsa Josh Maldonado-Roma Edgar Garcia-Mission Defensive Backs Justin Rodriguez-Mercedes Danny Salinas-Mission Angel Garcia-Roma Sergio Dominguez-Wes East
SPECIALISTS Placekicker Mike Jones-Weslaco Punter Mike Jones-Mercedes Return Specialist Joaquin Rios-Mission
PRESEASON AWARDS
Isidro Alvarado-Mercedes
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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Offensive MVP Alex Trevino-Mercedes Defensive MVP Tony Sanchez-Ed-Elsa Coach of the Year Gilbert Leal-Mercedes
HSSM IMAGES
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he Mercedes Tigers made the playoffs for the first time since 1999 under second-year head coach Gilbert Leal by finish third in the 32-4A conference. The Tigers will challenge Mission and Edcouch-Elsa for the district title. All-state sprinter, junior Alex Trevino rushed for 1,082 yards as a sophomore and he will have his hands full when the Tigers travel to Yellowjacket Stadium for a district showdown. The Yellowjackets have the size on defense to stop their opponents. The Tigers will boast a better offense. The Mission Eagles have quarterback Nathan Salazar. It’s going to an awesome year!
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2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
32-3AAA Conference
T
2007 PRESEASON
ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
Rio Hondo head football coach and athletic director Gus Cavazos was being courted by the Harlingen South Hawks in the off-season, but things just did not workout for the Hawks so Cavazos stayed put in Rio Hondo. The Bobcats return eight starters on offense and Cavazos says that this “team is better” especially with new quarterback Joseph Alaniz, a 6’0 junior who is ranked number one in his class academically. “He has the tools and he’s very smart on the field,” added Cavazos. The Bobcats lost to Cuero in the second round of the playoffs in Class 3A Division II in 2006.
2. Port Isabel HS
If you ever get a chance to talk to head coach Elvis Hernandez of the Progreso Red Ants, he will inspire you with positive feedback, win or lose. The Red Ants return seven starters on offense and ten on defense. “We will be better in 2007,” says Hernandez. A win over the Pirates and La Feria, clinches a playoff spot for the Red Ants for the second time in school history since 1990. The Red Ants could surprise both teams. Hernandez’s first year with the Red Ants went 0-10. Since then, the Red Ants have built a new stadium and a winning attitude.
5. La Feria HS
The Port Isabel Tarpons know that the title game will take place in the season finale at home on November 2nd against Rio Hondo. The Tarpons return a nucleus of starters on offense at key positions but will head coach Monty Stumbaugh used the right bait to hook the Bobcats and Hidalgo Pirates with keepers? Many will remember the Tarpon’s bid at a state title when Stumbaugh led them to the State 3A semifinals in 2003 where they lost to Marlin 41-10. Can the Tarpons do it again in 2007?
L. Rodriguez-La Feria
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The La Feria Lions will know if first year head coach Elifonso Esquivel Jr. was the right man for the head football coaching job after Robert Valdez resigned to move on to better ranks. Valdez led the Lions to a bi-district title in 2006 with a record of 8-3 overall, along with playoff appearances in 2004, 2003, 2002 (bi-district title), and 2001 (bi-district title).
Eloy Almanza-La Feria
David Alaniz OFFENSE Quarterback Joseph Vela-Rio Hondo Running Backs Norbert Ontiveros-Progreso Nolan Nunez-Port Isabel Wide Receivers James Delgado-Port Isabel Shane Eizember-Rio Hondo Tight End Martin Carasco-Hidalgo Offensive Linemen Jacob Moreno-Progreso Julio Garza-Hidalgo Joshua Perez-Rio Hondo Jaime Vazquez-La Feria Alex Bentacourt-Port Isabel
DEFENSE Defense Linemen Alonzo Garza-Rio Hondo Luciano Rodriguez-La Feria Alex Trevino-Hidalgo Javier Hernandez-Progreso Linebackers Osiel Perales-Port Isabel Jaime Conteras-Hidalgo Chris Lopez-Rio Hondo Defensive Backs A.B. Garcia-Hidalgo Justin Lee Gonzalez-La Feria Shane Eizember-Rio Hondo Osiel Perales-Port Isabel
SPECIALISTS Return Specialist Nolan Nunez
PRESEASON AWARDS
Jaime Vasquez-La Feria
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Offensive MVP David Alaniz-Port Isabel Defensive MVP Shane Eizember-Rio Hondo Coach of the Year Gus Cavazos-Rio Hondo
HSSM IMAGES
Many Pirate fans want head coach Jorge Pena out of Hidalgo but expect Pena to lead his team to the playoffs after a oneyear hiatus. In 2005, Pena almost made history by leading the Pirates to the Area Championships in Class 3A Division I. The Pirates lost a nail biter to Hondo 55-45. It would be the first time in the 2000 era that the Pirates had made the Class 3A playoffs or even won a bi-district title.
4. Progreso HS
1. Rio Hondo HS
J. Medrano-La Feria
3. Hidalgo HS
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he Rio Hondo Bobcats are loaded once again and could be even better with quarterback Joseph Vela stepping in to lead the black and gold. “We could go deep in the state playoffs,” says head coach Gus Cavazos. In the off-season, Cavazos applied for the then-vacant Harlingen South Hawks coaching job. Interesting. The Port Isabel Tarpons will be stronger than ever with running back Nolan Nunez and quarterback David Alaniz returning on offense. Both teams will play for the title once again in Port Isabel.
His Last Sidelines Edinburg Bobcat Head Football Coach
Robert Vela Ends His Short Battle with Cancer B Y DAVID A. AMADOR HSSM Sportswriter
www.hssmonline.net www.HSSMONLINE.net
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1945-2007 (Edinburg,Tx)-A coaching legend has died. Edinburg Bobcat head football coach and athletic coordinator Robert Vela died at his residence surrounded by his family on Saturday morning, on August 18, 2007. His death came after being diagnosed with stomach cancer in March of this past year. Prior to his diagnosis, Vela under went heart bypass surgery. The Bobcat legend was 61 years old. His name alone on the football field garnered respect from other teams throughout South Texas. His 137 wins and 13 playoff appearances in his nineteen-year coaching stint were impeccable. Vela’s most memorable moment came in 1998 when his Bobcats advanced to the State 5A Semifinals led by qb Clarence Cruz. “Cruz was a play maker. He made things happened. I will never forget him,” Vela told HSSM. Many will never forget Vela for his charismatic personality off the field. He left lasting impressions with those he talked too. He watched his former players graduate from college and comeback to mentor with him again. (“Cont’ with Bobcat p.20”)
(HSSMImages)
www.HSSMONLINE.net
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But most of all, he was respected by coaches and UIL officials throughout the state. “It’s sad time for football. He will be mourned,” said University Interscholastic League (UIL) Director Charles Breithaupt. “Vela was an icon and I knew him personally. He was a lasting impression,” he added. Longtime friend D.W. Rutledge, executive director of the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) and former head coach at Converse Judson was sadden by the loss of the Bobcat head coach. “He will be missed by the THSCA and its members. He was a great leader and friend,” added Rutledge. The Bobcats played the Converse Judson Rockets in 1997 in the State 5A Division I quarterfinals with the Rockets winning 54-13. Judson would defeat Houston Eisenhower 2922 in the semifinals to advance to the state championships. Rutledge shook Vela’s hand at mid-field after the game was over. Then came the 1998 season with Clarence Cruz back, his beloved quarterback. “This kid was special. He looked up to me like a father and I looked up to him like a Bobcat Soldier”, Vela told HSSM. Against San Antonio Taft, many will remember Vela calling three timeouts in a row just as Taft’s field goal kicker was set to make the possible winning kick from 20 yards out on each instance. Then Taft’s kicker missed the field goal attempt and the Bobcats would A True Bobcat. Head coach Robert Vela posted 137 career wins on the sidelines with 13 playoff appearances. (HSSMImages)
A Special HSSM Tribute
www.hssmonline.net
advance to the State 5A Semifinals with a 35-32 win. They would play Houston Eisenhower in the semifinal game, but Eisenhower would win 5514, ending Vela’s hope of winning a state championship. Vela would lead his “Soldiers” again to the Class 5A Division II Regional finals against San Antonio McArthur in 2000, after posting wins over PSJA and Harlingen. The Bobcat’s also made the playoffs with Vela in 2004 with a Class 5A Division II bi-district win over Brownsville Pace. This would be the last time the Bobcat hero would coach his last playoff game from the sidelines. The former Edinburg High School graduate loved being a Bobcat. Vela was coached by the legendary Fred Akers. His coaching career would begin in Edcouch-Elsa as a Yellowjacket. He led the Jackets to numerous of wins and playoff appearances. High School Sports Magazine asked Vela about his health after his heart bypass surgery prior to the 2006 kickoff season and his was response was with a smile. “If the good Lord wants me, he can take me. But I am fine and I feel great,” said Vela. “The surgery went well and I am here to coach for as long as I am allowed too by God,” he added. Throughout the 2006 season, Vela at times, looked tired on the sidelines but his response was always a positive one. “I am fine,” he would say. In March 2007, Vela, on a doctor’s visit discovered that he had stomach cancer. This would be the last time the Bobcat coach would walk the sidelines. The game he loved so much ended at Edinburg. “I always wanted to come back home and coach the Edinburg Bobcats,” says Vela. His wish finally came true.
A Special HSSM Tribute
(Note: HSSM video taped Robert Vela earlier this year in his last OneOnOne Interview with HSSM. See it live on www.hssmonline.net)
His Last Sidelines. Head coach Robert Vela is captured with an intense look on the sidelines in 2006. (HSSMImages)
www.hssmonline.net
2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
www.hssmonline.net
31-3AAA Conference
2007 PRESEASON
ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
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(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
1. Raymondville HS
Pressure? No pressure. Head coach Alex Leal sometimes thinks he should have stayed retired and kept things simple. After all, during his short tenure of retirement from coaching, he enjoyed his classroom teachings at a magnet school. Leal knows that if he can replace quarterback Carlo Dominguez, then the expectations will grow even stronger. Free safety Orly Mesa will lead his team after leading the district with seven interceptions and on offense, tailback Dusty Alejo will boast the size and weight to carry the Bearkats to their first district title in ten years. The Bearkats have the speed to make it all happen in 2007.
2. Zapata HS
Zapata head football coach Mario Arce brought his team to HSSM’s Annual Football Photoday this May and district coaches were wondering who these guys
Aaron Solis-Zapata
Robert Nunez-Zapata
in the burgundy uniforms were from? The two-time 31-3A District champions return Gilbert Garza, a mammoth 6’5”, 320 pound offensive linemen along with a offensive line that averages well over 270 pounds. The Hawks will be looking to make it three titles in a row.
3. Falfurrias HS
The Jerseys from Falfurrias are known for their baseball but maybe this could be
the year that they make the playoffs. Head coach Arturo Garcia returns eight starters on offensive with running back Ismael Alegria (5’7, 145lbs), who rushed for 800 plus yards in 2006. The Jerseys finished the year with 3-7, 1-3 record but they will be much improved in 2007.
4. Lyford HS
The Lyford Bulldogs return six starters back on defense, this could help the Bulldogs go to the next level in 31-3A. Jaime Rodriguez will lead his team on defense and if they expect to clinch the third place slot, junior quarterback Kevin Thomas will need to improve on offense.
5. San Diego HS
San Diego, Texas is home of the Vaqueros and head coach Tom Carrera and he will be looking to improve from last seasons’ 0-10 record. With 12 starters back, expect the Vaqueros to improve from last year’s winless season.
DJ Rodriguez-Ray’ville
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Gilbert Garza Sean Messick OFFENSE Quarterback Kevin Thomas-Lyford Running Backs Ismael Alegria-Falfurrias Dusty Alejo-Raymondville David Solis-Zapata Wide Receivers David Gonzalez-Lyford Jake Garcia-Raymondville
Offensive Linemen DJ Rodriguez-Raymondville Gilbert Garza-Zapata William Barton-San Diego John Constante-Raymondville Robert Nunez-Zapata
DEFENSE Defense Linemen JC Cortez-Raymondville Jamie Rodriguez-Lyford JC Ramirez-Zapata Jeremiah Hernandez-Falfurrias Linebackers Raul Pena-Raymondville Leni Cepeda-Lyford Phillip Morones-Falfurrias Defensive Backs Kris Suarez-Falfurrias Orly Mesa-Raymondville Amando Solis-San Diego Randy Cavazos-Lyford
SPECIALISTS Return Specialist Brandon Vargas-Falfurrias
PRESEASON AWARDS
John Consante-Ray’ville
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HSSM IMAGES
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his could be the year head football coach Alex Leal of Raymondville has been waiting for all his life. The Bearkats will field a talented team that returns nine starters on offense and ten back on defense in 2007. The Bearkats returned to the State 3A playoffs in 2006 after placing second overall in the new 31-3A conference with a 3-1 record and 7-5 overall. Their only loss in district was to Zapata. Do the Bearkats have what it takes to dethrone the Hawks from the West? Zapata is loaded again in 2007. District 31-3A playoff teams Raymondville, Zapata, and Lyford all went 0-3 in the first round.
Offensive MVP Gilbert Garza-Zapata Defensive MVP JC Cortez-Raymondville Coach of the Year Alex Leal-Raymondville
OnTheSideLines
This Bobcat Never
H
Gave Up
b y D a v i d A. A m a d o r
is “Never Give Up” attitude inspired many students, parents, administrators, and members of the media throughout his 19-year high school football career. He was infamous by promoting himself and hyping up those Friday Night Lights. Even with his brother coaching on the other side of the field, those Mercedes vs Edcouch-Elsa match ups every football season were must see games. It was his proud His 137 wins proved that his success was surrounded, not by “to meet you” himself, but by his coaching staff. handshakes “Surround yourself with successful people and they will lead you to that made him victory, “ he would say. Many will remember his smiles genuine with and enthusiasm he always carried those he met. with him everywhere he went. It was his proud “to meet you” In his darkest days left, he was handshakes that made him genuine with those he met. He left those frustrated. He told me, “hey T.D., me miro hodido (I look real bad) as I sat lasting impressions.
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
next to him holding his hand. It was moments like this, that I realized he was more than just a friend to me. Just a year ago we were smiling and I was asking him about his upcoming season. He was fit physically and understood how dieting was important to his life now. After all, he was recovering from bypass heart surgery at the age of 60. Many criticized him for not retiring last year so that he could rest and live longer. Those who criticized him did it because they really cared. Even then, he lived with that “Never Give Up” attitude. He loved football. He loved being a Bobcat. He loved the high school he graduated from. But most of all, he loved himself and God. As he lay there helpless and tired, I told him that I would never tell him goodbye. I couldn’t. How could I? So instead, I gave him my prediction for this upcoming football season. I told him that the Bobcats would make the playoffs in 2007. His response, “I think so. We have a real good team this season. We have a great coaching staff and they will do a good job.” But for now, I still have his cell phone number in my memory log and I will keep there just in case I ever need any advice or inspiration. He always said, “call me anytime.”
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a company of HSSMMedia Group L.L.C.
Volume 3 Issue 1 August 29-September 28, 2007 Publisher & CEO David A. Amador Brent Waters HSSM Sales Manager Alec D. Amador HSSM Photographer Jason O. Martinez B.B.A., C.P.T. HSSM Columnist Daniel Silva HSSM Webmaster All stories and photos published by High School Sports Magazine may not be reprinted without written premission. All stories may be submitted for consideration in the upcoming issues. High School Sports Magazine prints 13 issues annually beginning in August and ending in July. Mail all inquiries to: 2416 Frontera Road McAllen, Texas 78504
In Memory of
Robert Vela
Edinburg High School Head Football Coach and Athletic Coordinator
1945-2007 “To my Bobcat friend with whom I shared my dreams with and always told me to Never Give Up...”
David A. Amador High School Sports Magazine Publisher
www.HSSMONLINE.net
www.hssm.TV on the Web
2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
32-2AA Conference
(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
1. Hebbronville HS
3. Banquete HS
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ootball in Santa Rosa will now begin to take a brighter turn with new head coach Joshua Gonzalez at the helm. Gonzalez takes over as the new athletic director and head football coach after a brief coaching stint at Valley View High School in Pharr. At Valley View, he built a program at the 3A level, but with an increased enrollment in 2006, the Tigers moved up to the 4A ranks. The end result was a 0-10 season. With Freer and Hebbronville dominating the 322A district, look for both teams to contend for the title once again. The defending conference champions, Freer Buckaroos, advanced to the Regional finals in 2006. On the other hand, the Warriors could end up third in the conference, good enough for a playoff spot.
This could be the year that the Banquete Bulldogs enter the state playoffs. Quarterback Marty Lopez returns to lead the team while linebacker Andrew Espinoza will make sure that the defense does well.
4. Bishop HS The Bishop Badgers would love to surprise Freer and Hebbronville with a couple wins this season. QB Michael Justin Ortega has the talent to pass against opposing teams, especially when he yielded more than 1,200 yards in the air last season.
5. Premont HS Premont lies in the way with traffic having to slow down because of those pesky city cops looking for someone to pull over for speeding. That’s what will keep these Cowboys in the thick of the 32-2A race, speed, in the backfield.
6. Santa Rosa HS
The Hebbronville Longhorns return nine starters on both sides of the ball ready to defend their district title. The Longhorns will need to find a quarterback after Ricky Vera graduated last year and head coach Robert Gomez says that Joseph Maldonado will lead his team in 2007. The junior quarterback will be surrounded with plenty of experience. This could help them win another 322A title this year.
2. Freer HS
The Freer Buckaroos know that the district title will not come easy after going losing to Hebbronville last season. It was their only loss, but in the state playoffs, the Buckaroos won the Bi-District and Area Championships in Class 2A Division II. Head coach Joseph Alvarado returns six offensive starters but expect a tougher defense to shut down opposing teams.
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What will new head coach Joshua Gonzalez bring to Santa Rosa? Athletic director/head football coach Tuffy Martinez both resigned, citing personal reasons. The Warriors finished 2-4 in 32-2A. Gonzalez knows that staying healthy will be the key factor to their early success.
7. Riviera-Kaufer HS Riviera-Kaufer Seahawks will be trying to rebound from their 1-9, 0-6 season and a new head coach replaces Bobby August with Arturo De La Rosa. The Seahawks are talented enough to surprise teams, especially with seven starters back on
offense and defense. It’s going to an interesting year for the Riviera-Kaufer football program.
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
2007 PRESEASON
ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM OFFENSE Quarterback Michael Ortega-Bishop Running Backs Jacob Harris-Banquete Steven Cavazos-Premont Wide Receivers Roel Garcia-Premont Ralph Limas-Bishop Tight End Matthew Rodriguez-Banquete Offensive Linemen Arthur Nelson-Santa Rosa Kal Steussy-Santa Rosa Rey Guzman-Freer Alfredo Villanueva-Premont Erick Palacios-Bishop
DEFENSE Defense Linemen Ross Robertoson-Freer Brad Jameson-Riviera/Kaufer JoJo Gonzalez-Hebbronville Frank Moreno-Premont Linebackers Clay Weeks-Premont Andrew Espinoza-Banquete Kenny Wynn-Hebbronville Defensive Backs Marty Lopez-Banquete Michael Lopez-Santa Rosa Wesley Luna-Freer J.A. Perez-Hebbronville
SPECIALISTS Placekicker Al Schubert-Bishop Punter Al Schubert-Bishop Return Specialist Joe Maldonado-Hebbronville
PRESEASON AWARDS Offensive MVP Steven Cavazos-Premont Defensive MVP Clay Weeks-Premont Coach of the Year Chuck Anders-Premont
www.hssm.TV on theWeb
2007 HSSM Conference Predictions
32-1A Conference
T
2007 PRESEASON
ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
(2007 PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH)
1. Bruni HS The Bruni Badgers are the team to beat in 2007 with ten starters back on both sides of the ball. Head coach Arturo G. Lozano likes his chances despite losing to Falls City 35-6 in the first round of the state playoffs. Last year was a time for celebration since it would be the Badgers first playoff appearance since the school was founded in 1947.
2. Ben Bolt-Palito HS If you see one player standing out in the huddle, that player will be 6’4” offensive linemen Karl Willie of the Ben Bolt-Palito Badgers. The Badgers finished the 321A District with a 4-1 record and did not fare well in the state playoffs, losing to Shiner 27-0. Head coach Jeff LeFevre will see an experience team coming back with hopes of making the playoffs again. Bruni will travel to Ben Bolt-Palito on October 19th for a possible 32-1A showdown for the title.
3. La Villa HS
Robert Ramos Santa Maria
Manny Villarreal Santa Maria
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The La Villa Cardinals have one thing in their favor in 2007: a coach with a winning attitude and tradition. That’s what new head coach Joe Garcia will bring to La Villa. He is no stranger to this area, just east of Hwy 107 where anyone who wants to live here can pick their own government lots at no costs.
4. Santa Maria HS
Head coach Rudy Meza returns for his second season, something Santa Maria Cougar fans are not accustom to seeing when the football year starts. The Cougars won two games last year and hopefully Meza is looking to build a program that can compete in 32-1A. The Cougars are loaded with talent and return seven starters on both sides.
5. Benavides HS
The Eagles of Benavides High School will be looking to improve and stay competitive after finishing their season at 2-3 in district play. Head coach Selso Oliveira Jr. will move his tight-end, Eric Alaniz to quarterback with hopes of making a difference with his 6’1” frame. The Eagles could surprise some teams in 2007, but if they can stay healthy, they could contend for a playoff spot.
6. Agua Dulce HS
Head coach Don Gronback knows that two wins is better than no wins. Last year, the Longhorns ended their season at 2-8 but with a total enrollment of just 96 students, Gronback will just have to make the best of what he can get. La Joya’s enrollment is peaking with 5,546 students.
Marco Lugo Santa Maria
Victor Galan OFFENSE Quarterback David Jones-Bruni Running Backs David Ramirez-Ben Bolt Rolando Castillo-Bruni Wide Receivers Rocky Rodriguez-La Villa Oscar Cruz-Bruni Marco Lugo-Santa Maria Offensive Linemen Karl Willie-Ben Bolt Richard Bazan-Benavides Luke Carper-Agua Dulce John Garcia-Ben Bolt Ruben Davila-Bruni
DEFENSE Defense Linemen Joe Rodriguez-Santa Maria Karl Willie-Ben Bolt Victor Galan-Santa Maria Jordan Medina-Bruni Linebackers LeRoy Rodriguez-La Villa J.T. Lopez-Ben Bolt Colton Roberson-Agua Dulce Defensive Backs Marco Lugo Jr.-Santa Maria Julio Reyes-La Villa Zach Garcia-Ben Bolt Roseman Romero-La Villa
SPECIALISTS Return Specialist Fremin Lozano-Bruni
PRESEASON AWARDS
Norberto Gomez Jr Santa Maria
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Offensive MVP Karl Willie-Ben Bolt Defensive MVP Roseman Romero-La Villa Coach of the Year Arturo G. Lozano-Bruni
HSSM IMAGES
he La Villa Cardinals bid for a State 1A title ended when Thorndale stopped the undefeated Cardinals 18-12 in the third round of the playoffs in 2006. What makes matters worst, head coach Joe Salinas left the program to take up another job with Van Horn in the off season. Joe Garcia, defensive coordinator from Edcouch-Elsa now takes over as the leader of the Cardinals. Can the Cardinals repeat as 32-1A District champions? Ben Bolt-Palito will contend for the title along with Bruni. The Badgers will emerge as the favorites to win it all.
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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Leonel Casas Named New Football Coach
Coyotes Begin S
(La Joya,Tx)-New head coach Leonel Casas had the itch to walk the sidelines again and when the opportunity came up, he applied for the job at La Joya. “It was the right time. My kids are out of high school and I felt that I could still be competitive,” said Casas. The Coyotes have the made the playoffs for the past three years in a row under former head coach Oscar Villasenor, who resigned and moved to Eagle Pass in the off season. Last year, the Coyotes advanced to the second round of the State 5A playoffs with a win over Laredo Alexander 45-29, before losing to Los Fresnos 55-28 in the area playoffs. On football Friday nights, more than 7,000 Coyote fans fill the home side stands, while their visitors on the opposing side, sometimes net about 1,000 fans. “It will be fun and I am looking forward to coaching in La Joya again,” adds Casas. The Coyotes return 11 starters from an enrollment of some 5,000 students plus 34 lettermen and then some. Casas owns a 38-31 record at La Joya during his stint from 1981-1987. Returning starters include linemen Andy Santos (6’2 265 lbs), Balde Gonzalez (6’1 255lbs), place kicker Sergio Castillo (5’9 160lbs), Matt Jones WR (5’9 160lbs), and Andrew Arriaga (5’6 150lbs). The Coyotes will travel to Brownsville Rivera on August 30th to begin Playoff History 1993 (5A) La Joya 10 San Benito 7 (Div II Bi-District) Victoria 35 La Joya 0 (Div II area) 1995 (5A) La Joya 4 Harlingen 0 (Div 1 Bi-District) Eagle Pass 12 La Joya 7 (Div I Reg Semi) 1998 (5A) Eagle Pass 14 La Joya 0
(Div 11 Bi-Dist) 2001 (5A) La Joya 10 Hanna 10 OT (Div 1 Bi-District) CC Carroll 26 La Joya 13 (Div I Reg Semi) 2004 (5A) La Joya 62 Laredo United 7 (Div 1 Bi-District) La Joya 34 Harlingen 27 (Div I reg Semi)
Judson 43 La Joya 14 (Div I reg Semi) 2005 (5A) La Joya 24 Eagle Pass 7 (Div I Bi-District) Harlingen 36 La Joya 13 (Div II area) 2006 (5A) La Joya 45 L Alexander 29 (Div I Bi-District) Los Fresnos 55 La Joya 28 (Div I Area)
ATTN: TEXAS MOMS YOUNG DRIVER DISCOUNTS UP TO 40%
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2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Season
its season against another new head coach, Jim Helms. Prior to the football season, the Coyotes also accepted an invitation to play in Dave Campbell’s Football Classic at the Alamodome on September 8th against San Antonio Warren. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. Casas knows that his season will not get an easier as they travel again for the third consecutive week to meet the Calallen Wildcats on September 14th. Will the Coyotes be 0-3 when they host another powerhouse, CC Carroll? Or will they be 3-0 under new head coach Leonel Casas and his run-n-shoot offense? The Coyotes open their conference with Nikki Rowe on October 4th on the road again. Last year as one school. The La Joya Coyotes will split into two high schools next year. The New High School will be located in Palmview, off the Expressway. (HSSMImages)
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
31
Inside SPORTS
Steriod Testing Passed By Texas L
Is this the right thing to do? Why not put the same testing on Tobacco, Drugs, or Alcohol in High School The Texas legislation recently passed random steroid testing for all high school athletes. Is this really a huge problem in our high schools? Maybe. But what about tobacco, drugs, and alcohol? This is a bigger problem amongst high school athletes. Steroids have being around since the 1930’s and many athletes of all sports have used them as well. Why hasn’t anything been done before? In JUICED, written by Jose Conseco, he openly admitted how several other professional athletes were using steroids and how Major League Baseball knew but did nothing. Ever since then, steroids have been in the news, from Barry Bonds to high school athletics. Steroids have been used in all types of professional sports and rarely addressed. The International Olympic Committee is the only organization that tests every athlete (with the most advance testing system) and has strict rules about taking steroids. Will this type of testing in high school work or create legal problems? Our politicians keep saying that they need to get these drugs out of the hands of anyone; from professional athletes to kids in high school. Yes, the kids again. While, steroids and growth hormones seem to foster scandal with big-name athletes and make headlines that allow politicians look pretty. My question is directed toward the politicians involved in such legislation. Why is more emphasis being place on the athlete looking to make improvements in their game with steroids versus the use and consumption of alcohol and tobacco? As a parent, shouldn’t you be more concerned with high school kids drinking and driving, than bulking and playing? If you were truly concerned about our youth-as a parent- then alcohol and tobacco are drugs, too. Every year you hear about kids dying related to drinking and driving. Underage drinking is a serious problem in our youth, but I don’t see or hear politicians addressing this issue in
32
the same way steroids are focused on. You want real statistics. These were taken from the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with approximately 75,000 deaths per year. Alcohol is a factor in approximately 41% of all deaths from motor vehicle crashes. Among youth, the use of alcohol and other drugs has also been linked to unintentional injuries, physical fights, academic and occupational problems, and illegal behavior. Long-term alcohol misuse is associated with liver disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological damage as well as psychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety, and antisocial personality disorder. Current alcohol use among high school students remained steady from 1991 to 1999 and then decreased from 50% in 1999 to 43% in 2005. Now that’s a problem, 43% of all high school students (under 21years of age) are drinking alcohol. I often think that if the politicians were really interested in saving our youth, they would outlaw alcohol and tobacco before they did anything else. Why harp on steroids? You could start every high school senior in the country on Deca and Equipose today and have far less, if any, major health problems or suicides five years down the road that you would if you started every one of them on Marlboros and Budweiser. That is, if you could find any high school seniors who weren’t already smoking and drinking. These statistics are staggering with respect to the far-reaching and tragic consequences that teen abuse of alcohol and tobacco has brought on families all over the country. But where are the concerned leaders? Each year, more than 6,000 deaths amongst teens have been
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Lawmakers
l?
Jason O. Martinez HSSM Sports Columnist
related to alcohol. However, no one is out serving subpoenas to Anheuser-Bush. Instead, they are busting pharmacies for selling useful hormones- all in the name of saving our children. This recent push to protect our youth could also see new legislation drafted to reschedule steroids and growth hormones as Class II drugs. Clearly this is an indication that the hysteria has reached a fever pitch. There are legitimate medical uses, both on and off label, for steroids and growth hormone. How can you put those things in the same category as heroin and cocaine? Saving our children has a price. I can’t tell you what it is, except that I know it’s somewhere between Balco and Budweiser. Instead of toughening the punishment and fueling the hysteria, how about addressing this issue realistically? Clearly, there is a fraction of society that could benefit from medically supervised steroid/GH protocol. Just so, there is a responsible fraction of society that can manage their alcohol use and benefit from its enjoyment, just as there is a fraction of young people who should be kept clear of it. If Texas Lawmakers can be appeased that our youth is safe enough from alcohol and tobacco with age restrictions and education grants, then steroids and GH should definitely be a walk in the park. (For more: uil.utexas.edu)
Will This New Texas Law Control Steriods In High School? Banned Anabolic Agents
androstenediol androstenedione boldenone clostebol dehydrochlormethyltestosterone dehydrotestosterone (DHEA) dihydrotestesterone (DHT) dromostanolone epitrenbolone fluoxymesterone gestrinone mesterolone methandienone methyltestosterone nandrolone noraandrostenedione oxandrolone oxymesterone oxymetholone stanzolol testosterone tetrahydrogestrinone trenbolone clenbuterol
2007 HSSM FOOTBALL PREVIEW
33
Harlingen
RGC Sharyland Mission Har South* PSJA* Harlingen* Edinburg* PSJA North* PSJA Mem* Economedes*
8/31 9/7 9/21 9/27 10/4 10/12 10/19 10/27 11/2 11/9
Away Home Away Home Away Away Home Away Home Away
*District Games
*District Games
PSJA Bears
Edinburg Economedes 9/6 9/14 9/22 9/28 10/4 10/12 10/18 10/26 11/1 11/10
Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Home
7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p 7:00p 2:00p
Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Away Away Home
7:00p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:00p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p
Home Home Away Away Home Away Home There Here There
7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:00p 2:00p
Harlingen South
PSJA Memorial 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:00p 7:30p 7:00p
McAllen Bro Hanna McA Rowe* Edinburg No* Harlingen* Edinburg* PSJA North* PSJA Mem* Economedes* PSJA*
9/7 9/15 9/21 9/27 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/25 11/3 11/10
PSJA North
Edinburg
*District Games
7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p
McA Mem Bro Rivera Donna PSJA* PSJA Mem* Economedes* Har South* Edinburg No* Harlingen* Edinburg* *District Games
9/7 9/13 9/20 9/28 10/5 10/11 10/19 10/27 11/2 11/9
Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Home Away Home
7:30p 7:00p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p 2:00p 7:30p 7:30p
10
Home Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Home Away
20
8/31 9/7 9/14 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/1 11/9
30
*District Games
40
Away Home Home Away Home Away Away Home Away Home
50
9/8 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/18 10/25 11/2 11/8
*District Games
Donna San Benito Sharyland PSJA Mem* Economedes* Har South* Edinburg No* Harlingen* PSJA* PSJA North*
9/6 9/13 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/11 10/18 10/26 11/3 11/9
*District Games
*District Games
Bro Lopez Mission Vets Bro Pace Edinburg* PSJA North* PSJA* Economedes* Harlingen So* Edinburg No* Harlingen*
Mission McAllen Mission Vets Harlingen* Edinburg* PSJA North* PSJA Mem* PSJA* Harlingen So* Edinburg No*
40
Bro Rivera Los Fresnos McAllen Mem PSJA North* Ed North* PSJA Mem* Harlingen* Economedes* Edinburg* Hgn South*
7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p
30
RGV Football Schedules 2007
7:30p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:00p 7:30p 7:30p 7:00p
20
Home Away Home Home Away Home Home Away Home Away
10
8/31 9/7 9/14 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/18 10/26 11/2 11/8
G
Los Fresnos Donna San Benito Economedes* Har South* Ed North* PSJA* Edinburg* PSJA North* PSJA Mem*
Edinburg North
G
34 2007 HSSM Football Preview
OneOnOne INTERVIEW
He starred at Rio Hondo High School in football and track. He walked on and played football for the Texas A&I Javelinas. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons. Then his dream came true in 2007. Robert Garza played in his first NFL Super Bowl with the Chicago Bears as a starter. High School Sports Magazine’s David “TouchDown Dave” Amador talks with the former Bobcat, Robert Garza one on one. HSSM: Did you ever dream of playing in the NFL while playing football at Rio Hondo High School? Garza: Wow, now that’s a question that I keep asking myself all the time. Just playing college football was a big task but making it to the NFL was more than a dream come true. HSSM: What did it take to make it in college? Garza: It was tough. I had to work two jobs because I was a walk on but watching my parents work hard all their lives, gave me the will to work harder to play for the Texas A&I Kingsville Javelinas. HSSM: What were your thoughts on NFL draft day? Garza: It was a very emotional two days. You always dream about playing in the NFL and Day One comes around and you’re not drafted? Wow. HSSM: So what happened?
Garza: I decided to sleep that night and then went to church on Sunday with my wife and I prayed. Then I got the phone call from Atlanta. HSSM: How did it feel making the team and playing for the NFL Atlanta Falcons? Garza: Those thoughts still give me chills. I’m from the Valley and Atlanta was a big city. I remember renting my apartment. The only thing that was different was we had no tortillas and carne guisada (he laughs). HSSM: What does it feel like now, a veteran, playing for the Chicago Bears? Garza: The Bear fans are loyal. They know everything about their players. Playing at Soldier Field is amazing. This is the team George Halas coached and Walter Payton played on. HSSM: Tell us about your 2007 Super Bowl experience.
Garza: (pauses) Every NFL player dreams about playing in the Super Bowl. It’s like a dream. So many things are happening at one time. Even though we lost to the Colts, I will never forget that I was the guy from Rio Hondo, Texas playing here. HSSM: Steriods in High School? Garza: In the NFL, this policy is strict. It will cost you a career. It’s unfortunate that this could be a problem in high school. Kids need to be more educated on this problem. HSSM: How in involved are you with “giving back” to communities and charities? Garza: I am very involved with the YMCA, American Diabetes Association, and my own charity, Los Amigos De Roberto. Giving back is so important that is why I am here with my first Robert Garza Youth Football Camp here in Rio Hondo today.
Exclusive HSSM IMages/Alec Amador