2012aug

$chools $pending Big Buck$ for Football Friday Night$!

Stadium Renovations Mammoth Scoreboards Artificial Field Turf See Page 64

www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net

August 27, 2012

Charles Atkinson

Brownsville Hanna TE

Isaiah Galvan

Pablo Adame

Nathan Prado

Edinburg H.S. DL

Harlingen H.S. LB

FOOTBALL PREVIEW McAllen Memorial DE

2012 RIO GRANDE VALLEY

32-5A 31-5A 30-5A 32-4A 32-3A 31-3A 16-2A DI 16-1A DI

Scouting Reports Polls Predictions

Jacques Guillot

Port Isabel LB

Estefan Castillo

Sharyland QB

Isaiah Garza

Weslaco QB

Clay Jones

Weslaco QB

Dion Padilla

Donna QB

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RGV Football Preview 2012

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On the Cover

Founded in 1997

-Manny Gomez, head football coach Harlingen Cardinals 2011 State 5A Division I Quarterfinalist

High School Sports Magazine 801 East Fern Suite 131 McAllen, Texas 78501 956.631.2005

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Here Come the Mustangs! Can the McAllen Memorial Mustangs make it three-straight Class 5A Division II Regional finals in 2012? (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

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District 30-5A

District 31-5A

District 32-5A

The start of a new era, Vela H.S. Sabercats.

PSJA North Ready for New Foes in Realignment.

Can the Pace Vikings win it all?

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32-4A District by District Preview

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32-3A District by District Preview

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HSSM Football Photoday on June 8th at Bobby Lackey Stadium in Weslaco brought together Pablo Adame, Nathan Prado, Isaiah Galvan, Charles Atkinson, Jacques Guillot, Estefan Castillo, Isaiah Garza, Clay Jones, and DionPadilla all ready for the 2012 football season.

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TEAMBYTEAM

32-5A 31-5A

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32-4A 32-3A 31-3A 16-2A DI 16-1A DI

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May-June 2012

eview

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(Harlingen, Texas)-Since High School Sports Magazine made its debut in 1997, the Rio Grande Valley has continued to experience what Friday Night Lights is all about and the excitement it brings to start the school year.

The football season begins with workouts in the blistering temperatures of August with practices held either in the early mornings or late afternoons. “It’s hot out here but we keep our players hydrated with plenty of fluids,” says Harlingen Cardinal head football coach Manny Gomez. While daily temperatures soar to the 100-degree mark, players still understand that come football Friday night, the hard practices will be worth it.

In 2011, three teams from South Texas advanced three rounds in the state football playoffs, with Harlingen taking it one step further by advancing to the State 5A Division I Quarterfinals to play San Antonio Madison. Weslaco East went three rounds too in back-to-back seasons in Class 4A Division I, playing the same team again, Cedar Park. The Wildcats lost 42-0. The Rio Grande Valley also witnessed a State 5A Division II Regional playoff game with District 30-5A champions, McAllen Memorial Mustangs playing host to the San Antonio Reagan Rattlers at McAllen Memorial Veterans Stadium before an estimated crowd of 12,000 fans. For the Mustangs, this would be their second straight season Season Begins! Brownsville Hanna TE Charles Atkinson will keep his eyes on Harlingen LB Nathan Prado in District 32-5A and Edinburg DL Isaiah Galvan will lead his team in District 31-5A while McAllen Memorial DL Pablo Adame will be looking for another district title in 31-5A. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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///TEAMBYTEAM///

in the regional finals.

In 2012, football fans from this football hungry-crazed area will welcome the Monte Alto Blue Devils playing football for the first time in school history in Class 1A Division I-16-1A, while Santa Maria brings back its football program after budget cuts shut down their program in 2011.

The Cougars will also play in District 16-1A along with Ben Bolt and La Villa.

In Class 5A, Robert Vela High School will make its debut as the fourth high school from Edinburg C.I.S.D. Their mascot will be the Sabercats featuring blue, black, and silver school colors. The new high school is named after the famed Edinburg Bobcat head football coach, Robert Vela, who lost his battle with cancer a few years ago.

Expect more excitement as HSSM welcomes its fans to its 16th Football Preview Edition with Team By Team Previews.

Go to www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net for scores and everyday sports!

Ready for 2012! Nathan Prado of the Harlingen Cardinals will lead his team in District 32-5A. The Cardinals advanced to the State 5A Division I Quarterfinals in 2011 against San Antonio Madison.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

6 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

GET FOOTBALL ACTION PHOTOS AT WW

rank HOW THEY

Michael

HINOJOSA

McAllen Memorial Mustangs 6’4 WR

Advanced to 5A Div I Quarterfinals in 2011

Return 6 starters on offense & 4 defense

Won 30-5A title; Class 5A Reg Finals 2011

2011 4A Div II Area Finalists

Won 32-5A Co-title; Class 5A Area Finals

Finished 6-2 in District 32-4A; Bi-District

Advanced to 5A Division I Bi-District Finals

Advanced to Class 4A Division II Bi-District

Advanced to 5A Division I Bi-District Finals

Advanced to State 5A Division I playoffs

Advanced to 5A Division I Area 2011 Finals

Class 3A Bi-District; 6/8 starters back

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//How they’ll finish District 30-5A

1. Sharyland (3,040) 2. Donna (3,175) 3. Economedes (2,568) 4. Edinburg H.S. 2,455 5. La Joya H.S. (2,488) 6. Edinburg North H.S. (2,698) 7. Edinburg Vela HS (2,257 8. LJ Palmview H.S. (2,302) 9. LJ Juarez-Lincoln (2,134) District 31-5A

1. McAllen Memorial (2,354) 2. Weslaco H.S. (2,544) 3. San Benito (2,904) 4. PSJA North (2,423) 5. Nikki Rowe (2,251) 6. PSJA Memorial (2, 278) 7. Weslaco East H.S. (2,140) 8. PSJA (2,398) 9. McAllen (2,274)

District 32-5A

1. Harlingen (2,826) 2. Harlingen South (2,193) 3. Los Fresnos (2,825) 4. Brownsville Hanna (3,041) 5. Brownsville Rivera (2,268) 6. Brownsville Lopez (2,328) 7. Brownsville Pace (2,202) 8. Brownsville Porter (2,219) 9. Brownsville Veterans (2,495) District 32-4A

1. Edcouch-Elsa (1,357) 2. Mercedes (1,487) 3. Rio Grande City (2,003) 4. Mission H.S. (2,084) 5. Mission Veterans (1,902) 6. Roma H.S. (1,815) 7. PSJA Southwest (1,722) 8. Valley View H.S. (1,302) (Denotes Student Enrollment)

8 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

District 32-3A

1. Port Isabel (617) 2. Rio Hondo (622) 3. Hidalgo (984) 4. La Feria (958) 5. Progreso (482) District 31-3A

1. Grulla HS (968) 2. Kingsville King (981) 3. Raymondville (609) 4. Zapata (911) 5. Lyford (461) District 16-2A Division I

1. San Diego (383) 2. Santa Rosa (339) 3. Odem (311) 4. Bishop (369) 5. Mathis (446) 6. Aransas Pass (446) 7. Falfurrias (402) District 31-3A

1. Ben Bolt (199) 2. La Villa (159) 3. Santa Maria (151) 4. Monte Alto (191)

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FOOTBALL PREVIEW

REPORTS PREDICTIONS REALIGNMENTS

30-5A THEPREDICTIONS BY TDDAVE

2012

1. Sharyland 2. Donna 3. Economedes 4. Edinburg 5. La Joya 6. Edinburg North 7. Robert Vela H.S. 8. LJ Palmview 9. LJ Juarez-Lincoln PRESEASON OFFENSIVE MVP: QB Dion Padilla, Donna H.S. 6’0, 190LBS PRESEASON DEFENSIVE MVP: DL Isaiah Galvan, Edinburg H.S. 6’2, 250LBS

BY DAVID “TDDAVE” AMADOR HSSM SPORTS DIRECTOR

(La Joya, Texas)- The shuffling has begun with plenty of surprises in the newly realigned District 30-5A. All four Edinburg CISD football teams have joined District 30-5A, moving in from District 31-5A. Along with the pack, the Edinburg Robert Vela H.S. Sabercats will make its debut as the new high school in State 5A. Sabercats new head football coach, Michael Salinas is excited to become the first to coach at Vela High School. “I am very pleased and honored to coach at Vela H.S. He was my coach in high school at Edinburg H.S.,”says Salinas.

“I am very excited to get this opportunity. This will be my first head coaching duty.” The Sabercats open their season against PSJA at home on August 31st at Cats Stadium in Edinburg.

The shuffling continued with coaching changes and district realignments, nerves could become a factor for the new head football coaches without head coaching experience. Sharyland hired longtime assistant Ron Adame, while La Joya H.S. brought in George Espinoza, and Tomas Garcia will make his debut for the La Joya Juarez-Lincoln Huskies.

They will join veteran head football coaches Manny Moreno (Donna), Gabe Pena (Economedes), Joey Caceres (Edinburg), and Manuel Flores

10 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

of La Joya Palmview and experience could play a role with which team wins or loses on Friday nights. Moreno believes that this district will be competitive and many teams could surprise. “It will be a district that could beat any team on any given night. I’m just excited to get back on the field,” adds Moreno. In 2011, three teams made the playoffs from this district. Sharyland, Donna, and Edinburg all made Class 5A first round appearances and lost.

Teams to watch in 2012 will be the Economedes Jaguars who return nine starters on both sides after going 0-10 for the year. Head coach Gabe Pena says, “this is our year and we will be in the thick of the playoff race.” The La Joya Coyotes could be another team that could emerge after going 2-8 last year. But the one question will remain: Can the Sharyland Rattlers win the outright district title after losing the title to McAllen Memorial in 2012? The Rattlers won the titles in 2009 and 2010. Both Donna and Sharyland will meet on October 19th in Sharyland and this game could decide the outright district champion. The Rattlers defeated the Redskins on a last second, heart breaking, 49-yard field goal in 2011. “That was tough to swallow,” says Moreno.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

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Head coach George Espinoza 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 2-8 District 1-6

Players to Watch:

DE Julio Duenas, 6’1 235lbs Jr. WR Jose Garza, 6’2 170lbs Sr. RB Jorge Alvarado, 5’10 175lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 18/12 Starters Returning O/D: 4/4 Enrollment: 2,488 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2004, 2005, & 2006. State 5A

Division I Quarterfinal appearance in 2006 against Converse Judson.

as head coach at Brownsville Porter and La Feria. “The players are into it,” Espinoza said. “The mindset is changing. The numbers were up this spring. We have nowhere else to go but up.”

The Coyotes will open with Brownsville Lopez on August 31st at Sams Stadium.

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slide for a few years now,” Espinoza said. “When you’re winning, the numbers are up and kids are staying in the program. Like everything else, winning becomes a habit and when you’re losing it’s easy to get complacent – this program has had a winning tradition and we need to get back to that.”

The Coyotes have won only five games over the past four seasons. Espinoza hopes the return of three receivers and the anchor on the offensive line will lead to some more points as the Coyotes move to a variation of the spread offense.

Leading the wideouts will be Jose Garza (6-2, 180). While not a lanky receiver, he runs a 4.65 in the 40 and will play an integral part of the offense as will unanimous all-district center Juan Olivarez. The Coyotes will run the spread offense with offensive coordinator Roberto Valdez taking over after successful season

2012

August 31 Bro Lopez September 7 Bro Porter 13 Ed Vela* 21 Sharyland* October 5 Economedes* 12 Juarez-Lin* 19 Edinburg* 26 Donna* November 2 LJ Palmview* 8 Edinburg No*

(La Joya, Tx)- El corrido de “Que Salgan los Coyotes” can still be heard on football Friday nights in this western town despite the split into three high schools which took place a few years ago. Still, the La Joya Coyotes football players crash through the banners with less fans in the stands that once filled this 14,000 seating capacity stadium.

The split of La Joya High School, which at one time had more than 5,500 students is now down to 2,488 and because of this, the Coyotes football programs has diminished. As a matter of fact, the Coyotes have not made the playoffs since 2007.

These will be the challenges that La Joya first-year head coach George Espinoza knows he will be dealt with and he also has some major work ahead of him but plans on using a history of winning tradition to change the Coyotes’ mindset.

“We’ve been on a downward

District 30-5AAAAA

la joya coyotes District 30-5A

DidYOUknow?

The La Joya Coyotes last played Converse Judson in the State 5A Regional finals in 2006 at La Joya ISD Stadium before a sellout crowd of 14,000.

Jorge Alvarado La Joya

Jesus Ramirez La Joya

Julio Garcia JR La Joya

Jose Garza La Joya

Christopher Cedillo La Joya

Ives Santisteban La Joya

Juan Ruiz La Joya

Julio Duenas La Joya

Juan Olivarez La Joya

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

La Joya Coyotes

Juan E. Rodriguez La Joya

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

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Head coach Manuel Flores 4th Season 2011 Overall Record Season 4-6 District 2-5

Valencia anchoring the offensive line along with Argenis Casillas.

Others watch are DL Adrian Perez, DB Raul Guerra, WR Brandon Guerra, DB Robert Esqueda, and DB Raul Guerra.

The Lobos kickoff their season against Mission on August 31st and play La Joya Palmview in their district opener on September 14th and will host Edinburg the following week.

Marc Gonzalez La Joya Palmview

Players to Watch:

QB Sammy Bacilio 5’10, 190lbs Sr. WR Brandon Guerra, 5’11, 170lbs Sr DL Luis Zuniga, 6’1 210lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 11/34 Starters Returning O/D: 3/4 Enrollment: 2,302 State playoffs appearances since 2000: None

Raul Guerra La Joya Palmview

Samuel Bacilio La Joya Palmview

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more consistent on both sides of the ball.”

Sammy Bacilio will move to the quarterback slot from last year’s running back position. On defense the Lobos will be relying heaving on defensive tackle Luis Zuniga.

The Lobos will run a spread offense and stay in their Multiple 50 on defense.

“One of the things we’ve been working on since the split is developing numbers,” Flores said.

“You need depth in a 10 or 10plus game season. It’s time consuming building a program from scratch. We’re getting there.”

Like most coaches in the district, Flores said Sharyland, Donna and Edinburg should be the elite teams. From there down it’s gonna be a battle. Right now Flores is just looking for some consistency on both sides of the ball.

Players to watch will be Felipe

2012

August 31 Mission September 6 MissionVets 14 Juarez-Lin* 21 Edinburg* 28 Donna* October 11 Ed North* 19 Ed Vela* 26 Sharyland* November 2 La Joya* 9 Economedes*

(La Joya, Tx)-Will the nixedplayoff frustrations continue for La Joya Palmview head football coach Manny Flores, who enters his fifth year with the Lobos?

He has watched his last two years fizzle, just when the smell of a playoff berth seemed destined. But, overall, he can see the results of the five-year program, in the running for a playoff spot last year after a 4-6 overall record and 2-5 in the district.

With a solid senior group and seven starting returners from last year, Flores and the Lobos are hoping to contend and become the first La Joya school to make the playoffs since the school was divided into three Class 5A schools.

The key, according to Flores, will be finding consistency. “Seems that we’ve been hit or miss,” Flores said. “ Two years ago we were real good on offense and struggled on defense. Last year it was the opposite. We need to be

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District 30-5AAAAA

palmview lobos District 30-5A

juarez-lincoln huskies

La Joya Juarez-Lincoln

District 30-5A

Players to Watch:

LB Ivan Garcia, 6’0 185lbs Jr. QB Ramiro Garza, 6’0 175lbs Jr. RB Victor Bocanegra, 5’7 165lbs Jr.

(La Joya, Tx)-La Joya Juarez-Lincoln moved up to 5A for the first time in school history and will compete in 30-5A. It will be a challenge for a team that went 2-8 in Class 4A. First-year head coach Tommy Garcia has got skills – well, his players do. And he’s hoping that his skill-position players can help guide the Husky nation to their first playoff run since La Joya High School divided into three separate schools.

“We have speed at the skill positions,” said Garcia,

ond game of the year against Raymondville – including three to season-ending injuries.

Among the casualties was sophomore quarterback Ramiro Garza. Garza returned to finish out the season and is projected to lead the “speedy” offense this season.

Also returning is senior QB Michael Rodriguez. He took the reins when Garza went down but will once again start the season in a more comfortable place for him – at wide receiver. Rounding out the offensive skill leaders will be senior running back Pedro Reyes, who carried one of the fastest 100-meter times in the district last season. “Our skills players will definitely be our strong point on the offensive side,” Garcia said.

On defense, seniors Kevin Ruiz and Joe Vargas, and standout junior Ivan Garcia will anchor the linebackers. In the backfield, free safety Israel Garza – a three-year starter – and cornerback Ray Rodriguez will get the starts.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 PSJA Mem September 6 Rio Hondo 14 LJ Palmview* 20 Edinburg No* 28 Ed Vela* October 5 Sharyland* 12 La Joya* 18 Economedes* November 1 Edinburg* 9 Donna*

A H H A H A H A H H

Head coach Tomas Garcia 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 2-8 District 2-6

District 30-5AAAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Returning Lettermen R/L: 18/25 Starters Returning O/D: 6/5 Enrollment: 2,134 State playoffs appearances since 2000: None

who spent two years as JuarezLincoln’s defensive coordinator before the offseason promotion.

“We’ve never mentioned speed with Juarez-Lincoln. We tell the team it’s an exciting time to be part of this program.”

From mottos that say “The time is Now” to T-shirts that read “If You Don’t Believe – You Don’t Belong,” there’s some excitement brewing in the Husky camp. Top if off with a seven-on-seven victory over Sharyland, perennial district championship contenders, and the formula could be right for a sneak peek into the postseason.

“Our numbers aren’t great,” said Garcia, who also spent two years at La Joya Palmview with prior tenures at San Benito – and nine years at Edinburg North. “But we have quality players. If we can surprise some people early on, you never know what’s going to happen.”

Last year the Huskies lost five players to injuries in just the sec-

Eliud De La Cruz LJ Juarez Lincoln

Pedro Reyes LJ Juarez Lincoln

Brandon Ramirez LJ Juarez Lincoln

Michael Rodriguez LJ Juarez Lincoln

Kevin Ruiz LJ Juarez Lincoln

Ramiro Garza LJ Juarez Lincoln

Jose Vargas LJ Juarez Lincoln

Martin Diaz LJ Juarez Lincoln

Abraham Muniz LJ Juarez Lincoln

Francisco Contreras LJ Juarez Lincoln

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0907508TX.1

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economedes jaguars HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES September 1 Porter 7 McAllen Mem 14 Ed North* 21 Ed Vela* 27 Sharyland* October 5 La Joya* 18 Juarez-Lin* 26 Edinburg* November 2 Donna* 9 Palmview*

A H H A H A H A H A

Head coach Gabe Pena 2nd Year

2011 Overall Record

Season 0-10 District 0-7

(Edinburg, Tx)-There’s a lot of buzz going on in Edinburg right now. Of course, there’s the talk of realignment and the district changes. There’s plenty of buzz about the fourth school in Edinburg - the just opened Robert Vela High School, named after long-time head coach Robert Vela.

But, there’s more buzz - it’s coming from the east side of Edinburg. Can you hear it? Yup, it’s coming from Economedes High School. There’s even talk of competing for a playoff spot.

It would be the second postseason appearance for Economedes in the past 10 years. The Jaguars have amassed just two .500 seasons since that playoff spot those coming with 5-5 records in both the 2006 and 20007 seasons.

The Jaguars, led by secondyear coach Gabe Pena, are coming off an 0-10 record. That’s the bad news. But there’s good news, like…

…. there are 18 returning starters on the roster…. the offensive line is 100 percent intact from a year ago…. Hugo Reyes-Paz returns as the signal caller. Yes, expectations are high this year for the Jaguars.

Anchoring the line are a trio of seniors in Genaro Acevedo (6-1, 280), Luis Prieto (6-2, 247) and Hugo Jimenez (5-8, 210). They will be protecting and opening holes for Reyes-Paz, a junior who returns with lightning speed and will be called on to cause some havoc. Reyes-Paz has been clocked with a 4.4 40-yard dash and considered one of the fastest quarterbacks in the Valley.

In the back field, running backs include Tony Yzaguirre and James Villarreal and Ronnie Benavidez.

Senior Andy Duarte (6-2, 182) will oversee the defense from the linebacker position.

Last year the Jags gave up 453 points on defense and could be much improved. This year will be different. Key defensive play-

Players to Watch:

QB Hugo Reyes-Paz, 6’3 205lbs Jr. OL Luis Prieto, 6’2 247lbs Sr. OL Genaro Acevedo, 6’1 280lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 24/13 Starters Returning O/D: 9/9 Enrollment: 2,568 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2003

DidYOUknow?

The Edinburg Economedes H.S. Jaguars got their high school name from longtime Edinburg Fire Chief, Johnny Economedes.

ers inlace Oscar Garcia (5-9, 157, CB), junior Aliver Garza (5-11, 180, LB) and Roger Reyna (5-10, 180, LB).

The Jaguars open their season Sept. 1 at Brownsville Porter.

They open District 30-5A on Sept.

14 at home against one of three city rivals Edinburg North and go on the road the following week for a Sept. 21 matchup against their newest rivals, the Vela H.S.

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Edinburg Economedes

Edinburg

Roger Reyna

District 30-5AAAAA

Edinburg Economedes

Hugo Jimenez

Edinburg Economedes

Andy Duarte

Edinburg Economedes

Luis Prieto

Edinburg Economedes

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Hugo Reyes-Paz

Edinburg Economedes

Genaro Acevedo

Edinburg Economedes

Ricky Rodriguez

Edinburg Economedes

John Jacob Castro

Edinburg Economedes

Aliver Garza

Edinburg Economedes

Tomas Salazach

Edinburg Economedes

2012 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE 17 GETMay-June FOOTBALL ACTION PHOTOS AT WW

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES A

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Head coach Roy Garza 9th Season 2011 Overall Record Season 3-7 District 3-4

Diego Sandoval Edinburg North

Guadalupe Quintero Edinburg North

Steve Garza Edinburg North

Nick Puente Edinburg North

Josh Dennett Edinburg North

DL Josh Dennet, 6’0 235lbs Sr. FS Vicent Ortiz, 5’10 175lbs Sr. DE David Anzaldua, 6’4 265lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 14/17 Starters Returning O/D: 4/9 Enrollment: 2,698 State playoffs appearances since 2000:

2001, 2007, 2008, 2009. Advanced to Class 5A Div II Regional finals in 2009 against SA Brandeis and lost 51-14.

phenom (basketball, baseball, track). Garza plans on using both defensive stars on the other side of the ball in certain situations.

The Cougars will run out of s stack for the most part but will sometimes move to an even front, bringing in the extra linebacker to try and stuff the run-heavy opponents.

In any case, the opposing offenses will be trying to run away from nose tackle Josh Dennett, a second year full-time starter.

“We’ve gone from platooning kids to playing some on both side of the ball,” Garza said. “We’re looking for some of our other kids to step up. It definitely helps create competition within the team.”

QB Josh Vela will call signals for the Cougars, with Ortiz also getting some calls.

Jerry De La Garza Edinburg North

Eddie Sanchez Edinburg North

Cats Stadium is home to four Edinburg CISD high schools. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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Edinburg North Cougars

Adrian Morales Edinburg North

Players to Watch:

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(Edinburg, Tx)-Edinburg North head coach Roy Garza knows you work with the hand that’s been dealt to you.

Even if that hand is a little smaller than those in past deals.

With the addition of the new Edinburg Robert Vela H.S. to the school district, Garza – like other Edinburg coaches – has to deal with smaller numbers. Where he would dress 55 players on any given football Friday night, now the Cougars will have 43 ready to go. The addition of Edinburg Vela brought about an immediate and long-term impact to the Cougars. They lost about 20 incoming freshmen to the new school, a few seniors – most notably three starting offensive linemen. Still, the Cougars have nine defensive starters returning.

“We were pretty young last year,” said Garza, in his ninth year as Cougars’ head coach. “We have a lot of experience back. We’ve also made some changes because of the split and had some kids going both ways.” The Cougars are coming off a 3-7 record, missing the playoffs for a couple seasons. And, despite the split and loss of some players, the Cougars are in position to make a postseason return with the experience that comes back on the defensive end.

That defensive side will be expecting great things safety Vincent Ortiz and tackle David Anzaldua. Ortiz has been on the varsity squad since his freshman year.

“He moved up as a freshman and he played a lot in the playoffs.” Garza said. “He’s a great kid with a great work ethic. He went to several big camps this year. He will definitely play at the next level.”

Anzaldua is a 6-foot-4 returning junior and multi-sport

2012

August 30 RGrande City September 7 Bro Rivera 14 Economedes* 20 Juarez-Lin* 28 Edinburg* October 4 Donna* 11 LJ Palmview* 25 Ed Vela* November 5 Sharyland* 8 La Joya*

cougars

District 30-5AAAAA

north Edinburg

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 PSJA September 8 PSJA SW* 13 La Joya* 21 Economedes* 28 Juarez-Lin* October 5 Edinburg* 12 Donna* 19 Palmview* 25 Ed North* November 9 Sharyland*

H A A H A H A H A

ton Road. Harwell Middle School was moved to 9207 N. Avila Road in Edinburg.

Vela High School is the offspring of three other Edinburg Schools - Edinburg High, Edinburg North and Economedes. The SaberCats - the nickname chosen by the students - open their inaugural season at home Aug. 31 against PSJA. The SaberCats (the only team named SaberCats in Texas) offensive line may be their strong point. They have at least three incoming transfers who started at one of their sister schools. Frank Rodriguez (5-7, 220), Michael Gomez (6-2, 310) and Jonathan

Orta (5-8, 320) are three of eight seniors listed as players to watch by first-year head coach Michael Salinas. Other seniors listed include Armando Ponce (6-0, 199, DE/TE), Joey Arguijo (5-7, 140, WR/CB), Julian Villarreal (6-1, 185, TE), Jairo Trevino (5-8, 180, LB) and Justin Rangel (5-8, 155, WR/CB). Salinas listed sophomore Tristan Gomez (5-9, 143) at the quarterback slot.

Salinas quarterbacked at Edinburg High in the mid-1990s and went on to play college ball at Texas A&M Kingsville. “This will be an emotional season coaching football at a school named after my coach,” says Salinas.

Players to Watch:

TE Michael De Hoyos, 6’0 190lbs Jr. OL Michael Gomez, 6’2 310lbs Sr. DE Elias Thompson, 6’3 200lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 13/20 Starters Returning O/D: 0/0 Enrollment: 2,257 State playoffs appearances since 2000: None

DidYOUknow?

Edinburg Robert Vela H.S. is named after the famed head football coach who led the Edinburg Bobcats to the State 5A Semifinals in 1999 against Houston Aldine Eisenhower.

H

Head coach Mike Salinas 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 0-0 District 0-0

(Edinburg, Tx)-It’s sure to be an emotional season in Edinburg - especially at the newly opened Robert Vela High School.

Robert Vela - the face of Edinburg High football for a decade - died in August 2007 from stomach cancer.

He was 61 years old. During his tenure at the helm of Edinburg High football and previously Edcouch-Elsa football, Vela compiled a 137-73 record and brought his team to the postseason 14 times.

The school is located at the site of the former Harwell Middle School at 801 Can-

District 30-5AAAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Edinburg Vela Sabercats

robert vela sabercats

Edinburg

Ready to Join League! The Edinburg Robert Vela H.S. Sabercats will begin its first football season in District 305A. Pictured are head coach Michael Salinas with players Frank Rodriguez and Michael Gomez.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

18 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

2012 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE 17 GETMay-June FOOTBALL ACTION PHOTOS AT WW

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

A H A H A

Head coach Joey Caceres 2011 Overall Record 6th Season Season 6-5 District 4-3 Lost to Laredo United 24-21 Class 5A Division I Bi-District

Vince De La Cruz Edinburg High

Michael Moreno Edinburg High

LB Ivan Garcia, 6’0 185lbs Jr. QB Ramiro Garza, 6’0 175lbs Jr. RB Victor Bocanegra, 5’7 165lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 28/31 Starters Returning O/D: 3/2 Enrollment: 2,455 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2003, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2011.

Advanced to the State 5A Div I Regional Finals agaimst SA Wagner in 2010.

DidYOUknow?

Edinburg Robert Vela H.S. is named after the famed head football coach who led the Edinburg Bobcats to the State 5A Semifinals in 1999 against Houston Aldine Eisenhower.

The Bobcats will use a multiple 4-2-5 and multiple 4-3 on defense while being in a multiple pro style (with maybe some spread lineups) on offense.

“This will be an exciting season in a new district,” says Caceres.

Ramon A. Enriquez Edinburg High

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Located One Block East of Freddy Gonzalez Rd and North 10th Street McAllen-Edinburg HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

19

Edinburg Bobcats

Jesse Garcia Edinburg High

Players to Watch:

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

A A H A H

son with the Bobcats after a 6-5 year in 2011.

As far as returning starters, the Bobcats return just three on defense and two on offense. They do have 23 lettermen returning, however.

The Bobcats have been terrorizing on the defensive side of the field, leading District 31-5A in defense the past two years. Caceres said the defense will be solid again this year with defensive tackle Isaiah Galvan and linebacker Armando Celedon – who also played fullback – leading.

The offense returns halfback Victor Montemayor, who piled on 700 yards despite the Bobcats using multiple backs. By season end, however, Montemayor was the team workhorse.

Also returning on offense is quarterback Ramon Enriquez, who got thrust into the starting spot last year midway through the season after Alex Cantu tore his knee and ending his season.

2012

September 1 McAllen Mem 7 McAllen 13 Donna* 21 Palmview* 28 Ed North* October 5 Vela HS* 12 Sharyland* 19 La Joya* 26 Economedes* November 1 Juarez-Lin*

(Edinburg, Tx)-Edinburg Bobcats’ head football coach Joey Caceres remembers the end of last season. In some ways it’s like a broken record. “We ran all over them,” Caceres said, reflecting on the first-round playoff loss game against San Benito. “They had two big plays against us and we fumbled twice inside the 5-yard line and that was it. It just wasn’t meant to be.”

Still, Edinburg is considered to be among the elite in Class 31-5A, moving from the MidValley’s 30-5A and into a district filled with La Joya and Edinburg teams (oh yeah, and the favorites – Donna and Sharyland).

Toss in a pair of games to start the season with McAllen Memorial and McAllen High and Caceres has a pretty rough and tumble schedule ahead of him.

“By the third game of the season we will know where we stand and that will help get us going,” said Caceres, beginning his sixth sea-

District 30-5AAAAA

edinburg bobcats

District 30-5A

sharyland rattlers (Sharyland, Tx)-The road may lead more often to Edinburg and La Joya, with four and three schools, respectively, in District 30-5A. But everyone seems to agree that the path to the District title is going to run through Sharyland.

With eight returning starters on offense and seven coming back on defense, it’s not a surprise that the perennial powerhouse Rattlers will once again have the biggest targets on their back.

Head football coach Ron Adame, in his first year as head coach but 18th year coaching overall, said with the team’s success the past few years that his team knows that there are no days off – on Friday night or any other night for that matter.

“The past four or five years we know that football teams are going to bring their A game, Adame said. “That

helps us to be motivated to not have an off day during the week.”

In the past four years the Rattlers have 40 season wins, against eight losses. When it comes playoff time, however, they’ve only gotten past the first round once in the time frame, in 2008.

Adame said this year’s district race is going to count on the field. When asked to write down his predictions for the district, he penciled in Donna for the top spot with the Rattlers second. Hmmm?

“That game with Donna was a close one last year – and I expect something similar this year,” Adame said. “But we have to play them all – our goal is one week at a time. None of us are as strong as all of us.”

The Rattlers have great balance in their returning starters on both side of the ball with Two quarterbacks will give the Rattlers balance on offense. Estefan Castillo (QB/HB) and Tres Barrera (QB/RWR), will take the snaps with Cesar Valdez (RB),

Players to Watch:

LB Ivan Garcia, 6’0 185lbs Jr. QB Ramiro Garza, 6’0 175lbs Jr. RB Victor Bocanegra, 5’7 165lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 18/25 Starters Returning O/D: 6/5 Enrollment: 2,134 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2009, 2010, & 2011. Reached State 5A Div I Regional Finals in 2008, losing to SA Clark 49-21.

Emanuel Barbosa (OT), Jose Barbosa (OT), Luis Garcia (OG), Marco Avila (WR) and Danny Morales (WR) playing their roles.

The defense could even be stronger than last year with three returning linebackers (Bradley Klein, Joey Esquival and Angel Ocana) , both defensive ends (Pedro Velasquez and Dakota Crouch) and a pair of cornerbacks with Josh Sanchez (CB), J.C. Valadez (CB).

DidYOUknow?

Since 2000, the Shary;and Rattlers have the state playoffs in Class 4A and 5A.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 30 Bro Hanna September 14 La Alexander 21 La Joya* 27 Economedes* October 5 La Joya JL* 12 Edinburg* 19 Donna* 26 Palmview* November 2 Ed North* 9 Ed Vela*

A H H A H A H A H A

Head coach Ron Adame 1st season

2011 Overall Record Season 9-2 District 6-1 Lost to Laredo United 60-42 Class 5A Division I Bi-District

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Sharyland Rattlers

District 30-5A

Marco Avila Sharyland

Bradley Klein Sharyland

Cesar Valdez Sharyland

Pedro Velazquez Sharyland

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20 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

GET FOOTBALL ACTION PHOTOS AT WW

donna redskins Players to Watch:

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

WR Darian Hernandez, 6’0 165lbs Sr. QB Dion Padilla, 6’0 195lbs Sr. WR Vince Castillo, 6-0 165lbs soph.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 24/26 Starters Returning O/D: 5/5 Enrollment: 3,175 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2008,

H

2009, 2011. State 2A Champions in 1961

A H A H A H

Head coach Manny Moreno 2011 Overall Record Season 7-4 District 4-3 Lost to Del Rio 34-7 Class 5A Division I Bi-District

Ready to go! Donna Redskin QB senior, Dion Padilla will lead the Redskins in 2012. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador) “There’s a rich tradition and we hope to continue that. We have a pretty good nucleus to start the season. We tell the players that they determine the depth chart in our program by how hard they work and by doing the things we ask them to in the positions we put them in.”

Senior Dion Padilla returns as the starting quarterback. Padilla injured his shoulder on two occasions during the year, including midway through what ended up being a 7-point loss to McAllen Memorial. His main target will be WR Darian Hernandez.

The Redskins will run multiple formations on offense but their staple will be coming out of the I formation. Anchoring the offensive line will be center Joseph Guerrero.

“He is the key on the offensive line,” Moreno said. “I’ve always

said that communication on the offensive line is big.”

The Redskins have made the playoffs in four of the past five seasons. “It shows the character we have here – despite all the adversity we had last year we

WW.HIGHSCHOOLSPORTSMAGAZINE..NET

DidYOUknow?

Donna ISD will feature two high schools beginning in 2013. The Donna Redskins will welcome the Donna North Chiefs. The Chiefs name is already printed on the newly installed field turf at Bennie La Prade Stadium.

Donna Redskins

(Donna, Tx)-Oh, so close. That could’ve been the motto for the 2011 Donna Redskins, who finished last year with a 7-3 record and were just a few plays from upset wins over district powerhouses Sharyland and McAllen Memorial. Add to it the fact that Donna not just lost one, but two quarterbacks to shoulder injuries (three quarterbacks if you consider the starter was injured twice) and a very good year could’ve been a great year. And that’s just one reason coaches, players – and the Donna community – are expecting the Redskins to return to the top of District 30-5A and bring back a championship for the first time since 2007.

With five starters coming back on each side of the ball, the Redskins seem to be definitely poised for that district title run.

“That’s our goal, that’s what us and the kids made as our goal since we started working in November,” said head coach Manuel Moreno, who returns for his sixth year at the Redskins helm.

still had a successful season.

I mean, we made a run for the district title last year with all those quarterback injuries.”

Defensively, the Redskins will rely heavily on middle linebacker Raul Luna, and safeties Joey Reyes and Michael Cadena as well as junior returner Auggie Cantu in the secondary.

“We’ll work out of a 3-4 defense because we play against a lot of spread offenses. With our strength being in the secondary, that could play to our advantage.

Moreno wouldn’t point out any particular game that could be a season telling one, but fans can keep October 19th in mind when Donna travels to play Sharyland.

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

A A H

2012

August 31 PSJA North September 7 Weslaco 13 Edinburg* 28 LJ Palmview* October 4 Ed North* 12 Ed Vela* 19 Sharyland* 26 La Joya* November 2 Economedes* 9 La Joya JL*

District 30-5AAAAA

District 30-5A

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

21

FOOTBALL PREVIEW

REPORTS PREDICTIONS REALIGNMENTS

2012

31-5A THEPREDICTIONS BY TDDAVE

1. McAllen Memorial 2. Weslaco H.S. 3. San Benito 4. PSJA North 5. Nikki Rowe 6. PSJA Memorial H.S. 7. Weslaco East H.S. 8.PSJA H.S. 9. McAllen H.S.

(McAllen, Tx)-What a district race 31-5A will turn out to be like in 2012 with four reigning district champs joining the league. Of the nine teams that were realigned this past February, seven were playoff qualifiers.

Weslaco, McAllen Memorial, McAllen, PSJA North, PSJA Memorial, San Benito and Weslaco East all made the state football playoffs last November. Of the seven teams, five advanced past the first round and only Weslaco East and McAllen Memorial made it to the regional finals. “This will be a tough district,” says Weslaco Panther head football coach, Tony Villarreal. Another interesting fact, all nine teams have a combined 60 playoff appearances since 2000.

So what can fans expect from District 31-5A? Plenty of action and heroics on football night. McAllen Memorial Mustangs should be considered the kings of football, afterall, they have made back-to-back Class 5A Division II Regional finals along with another third round appearance in 2006. The Mustangs lost to San Antonio MacArthur by one point 35-34 in 2006 and again would lose 35-28 on a fumble recovery

by San Antonio Reagan in 2011 in the endzone. Head coach Bill Littleton has turned around a football program that had not seen a playoff berth in the 2000 era since his arrival ten years ago in 2002. The Mustangs have since made playoff appearances in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2010,

22 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

PRESEASON OFFENSIVE MVP: QB Javi Oregon-Rowe H.S. 5’9, 175LBS PRESEASON DEFENSIVE MVP: DE Garrett Sharp 6’3, 220 LBS McAllen Memorial H.S., SR

and 2011. Expect the Mustangs to challenge for a district title in 31-5A. The Mustangs are coming off a banner season winning twelve games in 2011 and an outright district title in 30-5A. Like the Mustangs, the Weslaco Panthers have won back-to-back district titles in 32-5A and come to 31-5A with plenty of vengeances and scores to settle with the Mustangs. In the 2011 State 5A Division II Area playoffs, the Mustangs ran past the Panthers 28-14.

San Benito almost made it to the third round had they not given up a 17-3 point lead in the first half against Laredo United but head coach Spencer Gantt feels that 2012 is full of expectations too. “We expect to win the district title,” adds Gantt. The Greyhounds also shared the 32-5A title with Weslaco.

The darkhorse? It would have to be the Weslaco East Wildcats, who will move up from Class 4A to 5A for the first time in school history.

The Wildcats have made the playoffs in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011. The Wildcats also won its first district title in 2012 too.

Other teams to watch will be the PSJA Bears under first-year head coach Rich Lucero and McAllen Nikki Rowe. The Rowe Warriors return plenty of experience under head coach Paul Reyes, now in his third year. Don’t count the McAllen Bulldogs out of the playoff race.

GET FOOTBALL ACTION PHOTOS AT WW

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

H A H A

H A

Head coach Bill Littleton 10th Season

2011 Overall Record

Season 12-1 District 7-0 Advanced to Class 5A Division II Regional Finals. Lost to SA Reagan 35-28.

Nick Marriott McAllen Memorial

Seth Gonzales McAllen Memorial

Luis Vega McAllen Memorial

Players to Watch:

MLB Garrett Sharp, 6’3 220lbs Sr. DE Pablo Adame, 6’3 270lbs Sr. OL Tim Ruiz, 6’4 290lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 22/33 Starters Returning O/D: 7/4 Enrollment: 2,354 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2005, 2006, 2008, 2010, & 2011. Ad-

vanced to the State 5A Division II Regional Finals against San Antonio Reagan in ‘12.

ning, shorten the football game.”

Defensively, Garrett Sharp (6-3, 220lbs) will be the field general in the 4-2-5 and someone Littleton feels will be like a coach on the field, getting everyone set up from play to play. Jesus Garcia (511, 230) has been moved from defensive tackle to defensive end, and DE Pablo Adame (6-3, 265) returns after missing much of the year with an injured knee. The Mustangs open their season at home against Edinburg Sept. 1st.

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FOOTBALL McAllen Memorial Mustangs //////////////////////////////////////////////

H A H A

we want to take the program even to a higher level than in the past.”

Of course, standing in the way is a conference that Littleton says geographically speaking, comparing location to location, could be the toughest region in the state.

“We’re going to know a lot about ourselves after the first two district games,” said Littleton. Those two district games are at home against San Benito and on the road against Weslaco.

Eight offensive and four defensive starters return for the Mustang. Two-year starters Tim Ruiz (6-4, 290) and Brian Velasco, along with junior Mark Martinez (5-10, 220) - who Littleton has huge expectations for and calls a “great student of the game” will have the duties of opening up lanes for sophomore Diego Chrysler and WR Michael Hinojosa. Calling signals will be junior Nick Marriott.

“We like to run the football, but we’ll throw it,” Littleton said.

“We like to keep the clock run-

2012

September 1 Edinburg 7 Economedes 13 San Benito* 21 Weslaco* October 5 PSJA Mem* 12 Nikki Rowe* 19 PSJA North* 26 Wesl East* November 2 McAllen* 9 PSJA*

(McAllen, Tx)-The Memorial Mustangs were 6-4 in the 2009 season after winning a district title the year before. For head coach Bill Littleton, it just meant time to get the program in high gear. Looks like his plan has been successful.

The Mustangs compiled a 9-4 mark the following year and are now coming off a spectacular 12-1 record. Memorial went 10-0 during the regular season before knocking off Eagle Pass (35-13) and Weslaco (28-14) in the first two rounds of the playoffs. The Mustangs got their first and only blemish in the third round, falling to San Antonio Reagan (35-28).

Where’s that plan take the Mustangs this season?

“Hey, we can always get better,” said Littleton, in his 10th year at the Memorial helm. “We have been fortunate enough to have kids who buy into the program.

It took us a couple years to get things turned around. But we are excited about where we are and

District 31-5AAAAA

memorial mustangs District 31-5A

9 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

23

nikki rowe warriors (McAllen, Tx) Git-R-Done!

That could be a catchphrase for the Nikki Rowe Warriors during the 2012 football season.

The Warriors held leads at the half or end of third quarter in what ended up being three of their losses. So, getting it done is something that third-year head coach Paul Reyes is heavily stressing.

“That’s a huge corner we need to turn,” Reyes said.

“While we’re happy about some of the changes we’ve made and steps we’ve taken, we just didn’t get it done and we need to win those close ballgames.”

Reyes goal is to turn the Warriors from a middle-ofthe-pack team to an elite team. “Again, we’re happy about some of the changes,” Reyes said. “We’re by no means satisfied. We don’t want to be 5-5.”

Rowe quarterback Javi Ob-

regon - a three-year letterman and returning starter - will carry the responsibility to bring the Warriors to the next level. He will call the shots in the Warriors fast-tempo spread offense.

“Javi feels comfortable and knows what I’m looking for,” Reyes said. “He knows all the checks and reads, he know when and how to put us in a good situation. It makes a huge difference when a quarterback understands these things,” adds Reyes.

“The only thing I would have him concentrate on is that he doesn’t have to make the big play every time. Take what they give you. He gets a little bored with all those 5-yard outs but I tell him keep doing that. Be patient.

Take what they give you even if it’s the same 5-yard-pass to the same receiver 10 times in a row.

Your chance to go downfield will come.”

Obregon will have a trio of experienced receivers to target with Tony Bimpong, Adrian Salazar

Players to Watch:

OL Ruben Fabela, 6’1 235lbs Sr. OL Noe Garcia , 6’2 270lbs Sr. OL Adonis Cruz, 6’4 270lbs Sr.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

Returning Lettermen R/L: 16/18 Starters Returning O/D: 6/4 Enrollment: 2,251 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007, & 2010. and “utility man” Eric Perez, who will also line up in the backfield.

Reyes said the key to the season could come down to the offensive line - and he’s not shy in saying that his line is good.

“We’ve got a good one, I’m not gonna sugarcoat it,” Reyes said.

“We have some really big kids who are gonna open us up. Last year we were probably 70-30 pass-run. With the pass protection and space these kids will create I’d like to get to as much as 50-50.”

Noe Garcia (6-2, 265), Aaron Rendon (5-9, 225) And Ruben Fabela (6-1, 235) anchor a line that has even surprised Reyes.

August 31 Har South September 6 Bro Pace 14 McAllen* 21 PSJA* 28 San Benito* October 5 Weslaco* 12 McA Mem* 19 PSJA Mem* November 5 PSJA North* 9 Wes East*

H A H A H A H A H A

Head coach Paul Reyes 3rd Season

2011 Overall Record Season 5-5 District 4-3 Last Playoff: 2010

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

McAllen Nikki Rowe

McAllen

Josh Bimpong McAllen Nikki Rowe

Javi Obregon McAllen Nikki Rowe

Aaron Rendon McAllen Nikki Rowe

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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

25

mcallen bulldogs (McAllen, Tx)-The first three losses of the 2011 McAllen High School football season came by a total of 31 points.

They were in the games, but couldn’t notch the wins.

Still, after a 4-7 record the previous year, the Bulldogs bulled their way to the playoffs, sparked by a four-game win streak against Mission (38-27), Donna (38-10), La Joya (38-3) and La Joya Palmview (31-7).

In 2011, they finished 6-5 overall and 4-3 in the district.

McAllen last won a district title in the 2006 campaign as Co-Champions.

Now in his 17th season at McHi, Harris says, “Our offensive line should be strong this year,” whose past two squads (2010 & 2011) have a combined 10-12 overall record still feels things will get better in 2012. “We’ve also got who I believe is one of the best cover men you’re

gonna find.” That person, cornerback Philip Cantu (6-0, 180) will anchor a defense that sees six starters returning. Other players who could make an impact for McHi include linebacker Jose Gonzalez (5-9, 180) and a pair of defensive backs joining Cantu in Roman Silva and Marcus Correa.

The newly aligned district 315A is loaded from top to bottom and the Bulldogs will open play with crosstown rival Nikki Rowe and then go on the road to Weslaco East. They’ll prepare with non-district openers against United South and Edinburg. United South is coming off a 2-8 record and hasn’t had a winning season since 2007-08.

Offensively, a lot will run through holes made by lineman Cesar Mirelez. The 6-foot-4 300plus pound senior will anchor a line with junior Jacob Amar and the tall target of tight end Garrett Thomas (6-3, 195). Three-year starter Cole Yarto returns at the wide receiver spot.

Players to Watch:

TE Garrett Thomas, 6’3 195lbs Sr. DB Phillip Cantu, 6’0 175lbs Sr. OL Cesar Mireles, 6’4 300lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 16/24 Starters Returning O/D: 5/6 Enrollment: 2,274 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2002, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, & 2011.

Still optimistic, Harris plans on starting sophomore Fred Hover at quarterback. Thomas may be seen behind center for some snaps and Harris considers him a good running quarterback. Hover will have Ricky Rodriguez and senior Josh Ontiveros lining up behind him in the backfield.

The Bulldogs averaged 29 points per game and yielded 26.5 in 2011. They ended their season with a 41-18 loss to Alexander in the playoffs. McAllen has made the playoffs in each of the last six seasons. Can the Bulldogs sneak into the playoffs again?

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 30 United South September 7 Edinburg 14 Nikki Rowe 21 PSJA North 28 Wes East* October 5 PSJA* 12 San Benito* 19 Weslaco* November 5 McA Mem* 9 PSJA Mem*

H H A H A H A H A H

Head coach Tony Harris-17th Season 2011 Overall Record Season 6-5 District 4-3

Lost to Laredo Alexander 41-18 in State 5A Division II Bi-District

District 31-5AAAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

McAllen Bulldogs

District 31-5A

Phillip Cantu McAllen High

Johnathan Ayala McAllen High

COUNTRY OMELETTE

Erek De Leon McAllen High

Jose Gonzalez McAllen High

Roman Silva McAllen High

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

A

H A H A H

Head coach Rich Lucero 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 3-7 District 3-4

Raul Lara PSJA High

Taylor Santillan PSJA High

Alexis Ruiz PSJA High

QB Taylor Santillan, 5’8 165lbs Jr. RB Alexis Ruiz, 5’9 175lbs Sr. RB DeAndre Henry, 5’6 165lbs Sr.

Starters Returning O/D: 3/4 Enrollment: 2,398 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, & 2010. predominately used defensively but will have his opportunities to spell Santillan.

Two other skilled position players whose names may be called out quite often include Joey Garza and File Datino - an explosive runner who competed in the state regionals in the 4x100, 4x200 and 4x400-meter relays. The Bears open its season at Robert Vela H.S.

DidYOUknow?

The PSJA Bears made back-toback State 3A Championships appearances in 1962 and 1963.

Both losses were to Dumas (14-3) and Corsicana (7-0).

De’Andre Henry PSJA High

PSJA Scoreboard will light up the scores on game day. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

Gabriel Trevino PSJA High

David M. Rodriguez PSJA High

Christopher Canales PSJA High

May-June 2012 16 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE WW.HIGHSCHOOLSPORTSMAGAZINE..NET

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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PSJA Bears

Eduardo Mancho JR PSJA High

Players to Watch:

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

H A H A

kids who can run with the football and everyone wants to be the featured back and that has been good because it’s created a lot of competition. We’ve taken a lot of those running backs and moved them to inside receivers.

Now getting in instead of running through a loaded box we’re gonna spread that field and make the defense cover the entire field.”

With so many skilled position players Lucero said there will be different packages and people in those packages, trying to make the spread even tougher to defend.

Two of those staples on offense will include returning senior running backs DeAndre Henry (5-6, 148) and Alexis Ruiz (5-9, 170).

Both players have experience and will be featured both in the backfield and at wideout slots.

The workload of signal-calling will fall into the hands of Taylor Santillan (5-8, 165), who finished last season as the starter. He may see some relief from Eddie Mancha (5-8, 180). Mancha has been

2012

August 31 Robert Vela September 7 Los Fresnos 14 PSJA Mem* 21 Nikki Rowe* 28 PSJA North* October 4 Wes East* 11 McAllen* 25 San Benito* November 5 Weslaco* 9 McA Mem*

(Pharr, Tx)-Out with the old, in with the new. And we’re not just talking new PSJA first year head coach Rich Lucero - even though it’s also his first head coaching job.

When the Bears line up on the field to start the 2012 season, the offensive formation will be as far from what fans are used to as could be. Out is the Wing-T, a PSJA staple. In is the spread offense. “That’s been my offensive choice for years,” said Lucero, who coached most recently at Katy Taylor High School as offensive coordinator. “A lot of teams are using it and we’re adjusting to it pretty well so far.

At Katy Taylor, the Mustangs went 1-9 in 2011 and scored only 117 points on offense under Lucero. Taylor’s last three games ended up in blowouts by a combined score of 129-31 from District 195A in Region III. The Mustangs also started its season with a fivegame losing streak.

“The thing is PSJA always has

District 31-5AAAAA

psja bears District 31-5A

raiders

north (Pharr, Tx)-Bruce Bush enters his fifth season at the helm of the PSJA North Raiders. Added up, Bush has been coaching for 42 years and has 233 career victories.

“Either its passion,” he said, “or insanity.” And for coaches who don’t already have a touch of that “insanity bug,” District 31-5A could definitely cause it.

“Just look, the district has four district champions and seven of the nine teams made the playoffs last year,” said Bush, whose Raiders were one of those playoff teams last year, compiling a 7-4 record before falling in bidistricts.

With a loaded offensive front almost entirely returning and a solid running game,

DidYOUknow?

Head coach Bruce Bush is the winningest active coach in South Texas with 233 wins in his career in 42 years.

the Raiders should be right in the playoff mix.

Both guards - Andrew Benavidez (5-10, 190) and Jorge Berrones (5-5, 190) return and will be key in the Raiders’ guard-pulling run block scheme. Benavidez made all district last year while Bush calls Berrones the team’s best-pulling guard. Julio Davila will move from center to strong tackle. Davila was also an all district pick last year That line will be making holes for one of the Valley’s best running backs - senior Caleb Silva (5-9, 170). Silva returns after a 1,000-plus yards on the ground during his junior year.

Ryan Guerrero will take over quarterback duties for the Raiders.

His biggest - and best - target will be tight end EJ Ruiz (6-0, 218), an all-state selection last year as a junior. Guerrero will also have Cristian Hernandez, Art Flores and Orlando Garcia at wideouts.

The Raiders will run out of a Slot T in their run-oriented, power offense. Defensively, Bush is ex-

Players to Watch:

LB Abel Arias, 5’10 170lbs Sr. DT Rudy Chapa, 6’0 240lbs Sr. RB Caleb Silva 5’9 175lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 15/27 Starters Returning O/D: 6/6 Enrollment: 2,423 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 &

2011. Advanced to the State 5A Division II Regional Playoffs in 2003 against San Antonio O’Connor.

cited about the experience returning, especially in the secondary.

Senior Cristian Hernandez and junior Sammy Lopez return at the corners while Art Flores comes back at free safety. C.J. Barberena (5-9, 185) returns at linebacker after a solid sophomore campaign and will be joined by Nic Romero (5-9, 180), a part-time starter last year and Abel Arias.

“We’re really hoping our experience helps us in the secondary, especially facing teams with a spread offense,” Bush said.

The Raiders travel to Donna to open its season on August 31st.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Donna September 6 Ed-Elsa 13 Wes East* 21 McAllen* 28 PSJA* October 5 San Benito* 12 Weslaco* 19 McA Mem* 26 PSJA Mem* November 1 Nikki Rowe*

A H H A H A H A H A

Head coach Bruce Bush 5th Season

2011 Overall Record Season 7-4 District 5-2 Lost in Class 5A Division II Bi-District to Bro Pace 42-21

District 31-5AAAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

PSJA North Raiders

PSJA

Cristian Hernandez PSJA North

Ryan Guerrero PSJA North

Sammy Lopez PSJA North

Abel Arias PSJA North

Ricky Trevino PSJA North

Jorge Berrones PSJA North

Julio Davila PSJA North

Orlando Garcia PSJA North

28 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

Caleb Silva PSJA North

15

Rudy Chapa PSJA North

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

H

A H A H A

Head coach Gus Cavazos 5th Season

2011 Overall Record Season 6-5 District 4-3 Lost in Class 5A Division II Bi-District to Weslaco 55-0

Jaime Borrego PSJA Memorial

Marc Avila PSJA Memorial

stretch run.”

Expectations are high with the Wolverines spread offense and returning quarterback Manny Mancias. He will have a cast of skill players with Robert Rodriguez and Chris Leal in the backfield (Leal may also move out to the slot) and receiver WR Jaime Borrego.

While PSJA Memorial has two offensive linemen returning, Cavazos said the biggest question may be how to fill those other three spots up front.

The good things is, Cavazos said the same system has been in place since he took over so most of the learning curve has been completed for the upperclassmen.

“We are going to run very simple plays and it doesn’t change a whole lot from week 0 to week 10,” Cavazos said.

The Wolverines’ season ended with a 55-0 loss to Weslaco.

They won’t have to wait until the postseason to meet again.

Edmundo Mata PSJA Memorial

Players to Watch:

LB DJ Martinez, 5,10 180lbs Sr. WR Jaime Borrego, 5’10 lbs Sr. QB Manny Mancillas 6’2 185lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 26/19 Starters Returning O/D: 6/7 Enrollment: 2,278 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2010, & 2011.

Advanced to the State 5A Division II Area Playoffs in 2010 against McAllen Memorial.

The Panthers come visiting Sep. 27th in the third district game for both teams.

Cavazos has a good mix of returning defenders with Eric Castillo, Isaac Escobedo and Oscar Loa along the offensive line, DJ Martinez and Jonathan Serrapo at linebackers and Danny de la Rosa in the secondary. Is it playoff time again for the Wolverines?

DidYOUknow?

The PSJA Memorial Wolverines made back-to-back playoff appearances in the 2000 era three different times.

Arny Garza PSJA Memorial

Chris Leal PSJA Memorial

Under Construction! PSJA Stadium will sit 11,500 fans every football night.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

Jorge Trevino 14 PSJA Memorial

Isaac Escobedo PSJA Memorial

WW.HIGHSCHOOLSPORTSMAGAZINE..NET

PSJA Memorial Wolverines FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

A H A H

(Alamo, Tx)-If football is a numbers game, get a load of these: Six - the number of injured (non-playing) starters going into PSJA’ Memorial’s matchup against Edinburg.

Then nine - the number of injured (non-playing) starters going into PSJA Memorial’s matchup against Harlingen. And finally, lucky 13 - the number of starters returning from last year (some who started because of injuries, others who were injured and are returning). Beware football opponents, these Wolverines will be better in 2012.

“You never want any of your kids injured -- at any time or in any way,” said fifth-year head coach Gus Cavazos. “It ended up though being a blessing in disguise. We had a lot of long injuries or season- ending injuries and it ended up building us a lot more depth. We ended up third after being ‘picked’ to finish seventh. So, that’s not bad,” says Cavazos.

“We’ve also got a dozen more kids on the varsity squad this year. That will help save ourselves for the

2012

August 31 La Joya JL September 7 Har South 14 PSJA* 21 San Benito* 27 Weslaco* October 5 McA Mem* 18 Nikki Rowe* 26 PSJA North* November 2 Wes East* 9 McAllen*

wolverines

District 31-5AAAAA

memorial PSJA

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

29

san benito greyhounds (San Benito, Tx)-Many prognosticators across the Rio Grande Valley have pegged the San Benito Greyhounds as the team to beat in a very tough realigned District 31-5A. But that doesn’t motivate the Greyhounds, said head coach Spencer Gantt. The district itself should be enough.

“They are well-motivated to being part of the toughest district in the Rio Grande Valley,” Gantt said. “This district is going to bring out the best in both the coaches and the kids across the board.”

To top it off, the Greyhounds open their season with non-district battles against Los Fresnos and Harlingen. “Non-district is always a big deal and I want to play the best of the best, right off the bat, to get my season rolling,” Gantt said.

San Benito finished 9-3 last year, falling in a tight ballgame to Laredo United in the second round of the playoffs.

One look at the Greyhounds’ roster and it’s easy to see where their strength lies - on defense.

Adrian Zuniga and Sam Lopez will be on the defensive ends for the Greyhounds while Rene Chavez (5-10, 210), who amassed 160 tackles last year, will be in the middle at linebacker and joined by another returning starter in Enrique Rodriguez (5-7, 185).

The secondary also has some experience with Nate Mireles at safety and Josh Alonzo (5-10, 170), who was used as the Greyhounds’ rover last season but will be at corner this season in the team’s 4-2-5 defensive setup.

The offensive returners include four offensive lineman and running back Arturo Coronado (56, 152). Coronado eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark last season.

“Anytime you have a 1,000yard returner, that’s a good thing,” Gantt said. “It’s always a little tougher to get the offense

Players to Watch:

LB Rene Chavez, 5,10 210lbs Sr. OL Jason Farias, 6’0 215lbs Sr. DT Pete Lozano 6’2 275lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 25/27 Starters Returning O/D: 6/7 Enrollment: 2,904 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, & 2011. clicking and a little longer to gel. But we have a good group coming back and a group of young cats coming up to plug in at receiver.”

The biggest task during spring football was finding a quarterback to replace Jacob Puente and senior Jesse Jimenez will get the knod. The offense runs out of the spread with four wide receivers and in the shotgun formation.

DidYOUknow?

The Greyhounds advanced to the State 5A Div II Regional finals in 2005, losing to Smithson Valley 51-0.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Los Fresnos September 7 Harlingen 13 McA Mem* 21 PSJA Mem* 28 Nikki Rowe* October 5 PSJA North* 12 Wes East* 19 McAllen* 25 PSJA* November 9 Weslaco*

A H A H A H A H A H

Head coach Spencer Gantt 3rd Season 2011 Overall Record Season 9-3 District 6-1

Advanced to Class 5A Division I Area finals. Lost to Laredo United 24-17.

District 31-5AAAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

San Benito Greyhounds

District 31-5A

Jesse Jimenez San Benito

Isaiah Rodriguez San Benito

Alan Bejavan San Benito

Enrique Rodriguez San Benito

Arturo Coronado San Benito

Jason Farias San Benito

Matthew Hernandez San Benito

Reynaldo Avila San Benito

Pete Lozano San Benito

Josh Huerta San Benito

30 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

H

A H A H A

Head coach Tony Villarreal 7th season

2011 Overall Record

Season 10-2 District 6-1 Lost to McAllen Memorial 28-14 in Class 5A Division II Area Finals.

Andres Dena Weslaco High

Derrick Castillo Weslaco High

Clay Jones Weslaco High

LB DJ Martinez, 5,10 180lbs Sr. WR Jaime Borrego, 5’10 lbs Sr. QB Manny Mancillas 6’2 185lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 22/33 Starters Returning O/D: 7/4 Enrollment: 2,544 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, & 2011.

Advanced to the State 5A Division II Regional Finals in 2008 against San Antonio Madison.

our middle linebacker and he was like – wow – like Alex (Berrones) on the defensive side of the ball. I think he was our best linebacker and we had two all-staters last year.”

The Panthers will run the slot misdirection on offense (“since the Stone Ages,” Villarreal said.) and a multiple 4-3 on defense.

DidYOUknow?

Tony Villarreal is the winningest active Hispanic coach in South Texas with 161 wins.

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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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Weslaco Panthers

WW.HIGHSCHOOLSPORTSMAGAZINE..NET

Players to Watch:

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

H H A H

The Panthers are coming off a District 32-5A Co-Championship and a 10-2 record last year, before losing to Memorial in the area playoffs.

On paper, Weslaco returns four starters on offense and five on defense from last year’s team along with a group of players who, according to Villarreal, all shared some time.

Offensively, the Panthers will be led by quarterback Clay Jones.

The 5-foot-10 Jones runs a 4.5 on 40-yard dash and Villarreal adds, “this year we’re a lot faster, a lot quicker – that will be our staple.”

First-team unanimous all-district offensive guard Alex Berrones and junior tight end Derrick Castillo (6-3, 250) both return, with Castillo being a key target for Jones.

Defensively, the Panthers will be anchored by a pair of returning safetys – Brandon Lopes and Kevin Garza. Lopes is 6’3, runs a 4.5 and was a regional qualifier in the hurdles. “Tommy Chavez is

2012

August 31 Ed-Elsa September 7 Donna 14 McA Mem* 21 PSJA Mem* 28 Nikki Rowe* October 5 PSJA North* 12 Wes East* 19 McAllen* November 2 PSJA* 9 San Benito*

(Weslaco, Tx)-When you first start talking to Weslaco High football coach Tony Villarreal about District 31-5A, you get the impression that the Panthers have an uphill battle ahead of them in 2012.

“When you graduate 35 seniors, you don’t have the mix you need,” said Villarreal. “I just hope we can make it through the meat grinder.”

But when you start talking to the coach about his returning players, you start realizing that the Panthers should be able to hold their own in the heavily realigned district.

And within that comes the city battle - now a district battle - between Weslaco and Weslaco East.

“That’s going to be an emotionally packed game for the city of Weslaco,” Villarreal said. “The Wildcats are a very high-powered offense and I think any of the 4As they played against could beat any of the 5As - they are all quality program.” Both teams meet on October 12th.

District 31-5AAAAA

weslaco panthers

District 31-5A

It’s All About

the Game

By David A. Amador HSSM Sports Director

///////////////////////////////////

Another Special Season...

It’s another football season and after publishing sixteen

www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net years worth of football stories about incoming players and their coaches, let’s not forget that it’s a brand new year. These new players have earned the right to wear their uniforms proudly on Football Friday Nights. To many football players this night is called Game Day. When a team goes 0-10 or 13-1, still the next season will feature returning lettermen or incoming players with first year experience. Eitherway, the jitters will exsist along with the texting before kickoff. It’s an experience too. Think about.

On the bus ride to the stadium to meet your opponent with all the fanfare, you can bet that every football player is nervous, scared, unsettled, or feeling the nerves of wanting to get rid of last night’s dinner too.

But, that’s what football brings to the Rio Grande Valley. It’s a celebration of families, teachers, children, administrators, and school boards all wanting to

cheer on their favorite teams. As for the first year player making the varisty team for the very first time is a dream come true. It’s special to him. Even as I write, I can feel the excitement for this player. For this player and many like him, bursting out of that football tunnel is something he always wanted to do since

playing Pop Warner football as a eleven year old. I should know, my son has the same dreams now of someday playing football in high school. We all want our sons to start and play on Game Day but for our son, making the team was special that’s why it’s always another special season.

You can contact David A. Amador at tddave@highschoolsportsmagazine.net

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2012 Weslaco Panthers

Two-Time 32-5A District Champions!

Weslaco East Wildcats

Two-Time State 4A Regional Finalists!

Weslaco H.S. H H H A H A H A H A

31-5AAAAA Varsity Schedule Varsity Schedule

August 31 Edcouch-Elsa Sept 7 Donna Sept 14 McAllen Memorial* Sept 21 PSJA Memorial* Sept 28 Nikki Rowe* Oct 5 PSJA North * Oct 12 Weslaco East* Oct 19 McAllen* Nov 2 PSJA* Nov 9 San Benito* **December 20-22, 2012 UIL State Championships (Site to to be be announced) announced) (Site

Head coach: Tony Villarreal

Weslaco East H.S. H A A H A H A H A H

August 31 Eagle Pass Sept 7 Calallen Sept 14 PSJA North* Sept 21 McAllen* Oct 4 PSJA* Oct 12 San Benito * Oct 19 Weslaco* Oct 26 McAllen Memorial* Nov 5 PSJA Memorial* Nov 9 Nikki Rowe* **December 20-22, 2012 UIL State Championships (Site to to be be announced) announced) (Site

Head coach: Armando Cuellar

Weslaco High School Principal Isidro Nieto weslaco East H.S. Principal Susan Peterson Weslaco ISD Superintendent Dr. Ruben Alejandro Oscar Riojas WISD Athletic Director

(Weslaco, Tx)-Earn double digit wins for two straight years and claim a 22-4 record - including 15-1 in the district and what do you get?

Promoted….to a higher class….to the toughest district in the Rio Grande Valley. How’s that for rewards?

That’s what Weslaco East faces now as a member of District 31-5A - the now self-proclaimed BIG 12 of high school football in the Rio Grande Valley. Nine teams, four district champions and seven playoff teams from a year ago.

“This is definitely going to be something new for us,” said head coach Armando Cuellar, now in his 11th season with the Wildcats. “We’re gonna be playing teams we’re not familiar with - but in terms of football, we will continue doing what we’re doing.”

Weslaco East advanced to

the third round of the playoffs, defeating Alice and Victoria East along the way before falling to Cedar Park.

In three of the past four seasons the Wildcats have put together a 1,000-plus yard rusher. Cuellar said that each of those backs would without a doubt credit their offensive line. He’s hoping a similar situation develops this season.

The Wildcats return three starters on offense and seven on defense - Peter Gonzalez (5-8, 183) at fullback, Tommy Maldonado (5-8, 165) at receiver and offensive tackle or tight end Pedro Sanchez (6-5, 230).

Brandon Hernandez (5-10, 165) is pegged as the starting quarterback and Brandon Guzman (5-11, 155) will get some reps in that sport as well.

Defensively the Wildcats will predominantly play out of a 4-4 formation. Fabian Villarreal (5-8, 190) returns at inside linebacker the the team’s second leading tackler from last year. He will be

Players to Watch:

RB Peter Gonzalez, 5’8 185lbs Sr. QB Brandon Hernandez, 5’11 160lbs Sr. TE Pete Sanchez 6’5 230lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 21/27 Starters Returning O/D: 3/7 Enrollment: 2,140 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2002007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. Won first ever 32-4A District title in school history in 2011 and back-to-back regional appearances.

joined by Ace Ceballos (5-6, 189) at outside linebacker and Martin Rendon (5-9, 175) also on the inside. The Wildcats also have two solid secondary returners with all-district Josh Cordova (5-10, 175) and Darek Martinez 5-7, 140). Returning along the line are defensive tackle Joey Luna (5-6, 200) and George Quintanilla (59, 205).

DidYOUknow?

Armando Cuellar is the only coach the Wildcats have had since its debut as a Class 4A school in Texas.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Eagle Pass September 7 Calallen 14 PSJA North* 21 McAllen* October 4 PSJA * 12 San Benito* 19 Weslaco* 26 McA Men* November 5 PSJA Mem* 9 Nikki Rowe*

H A A H A H A H A H

Head coach Armando Cuellar 2011 Overall Record

Season 11-2 District 8-0

State 4A Division I Regional Finals. Lost 49-0 to Cedar Park.

District 32-5AAAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Weslaco East Wildcats

eastwildcats Weslaco

Tommy Maldonado Weslaco East

Brandon Hernandez Weslaco East

Brandon Guzman Weslaco East

Peter Gonzalez Weslaco East

Martin Rendon Weslaco East

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FOOTBALL PREVIEW

REPORTS PREDICTIONS REALIGNMENTS

32-5A THEPREDICTIONS BY TDDAVE

2012

1. Harlingen 2. Harlingen South 3. Los Fresnos 4. Hanna 5. Rivera 6. Lopez 7. Pace 8. Porter PRESEASON OFFENSIVE MVP: QB Sean Montemayor, 5’10, 175LBS-Harlingen South H.S. PRESEASON DEFENSIVE MVP: LB Nathan Prado, 5’10, 180LBS-Harlingen H.S.

BY DAVID “TDDAVE” AMADOR HSSM SPORTS DIRECTOR

(Harlingen, Tx)-With the new University Interscholastic League’s release of the 2012-2014 district realignments many teams were hoping that the Harlingen Cardinals would not end up in their conference for the upcoming season. So instead, the UIL made the right choice and moved them from District 31-5A to 32-5A to play in Cameron County where demographically it just makes sense too. The Cardinals and Harlingen South will now join Los Fresnos and six Brownsville High Schools where football or futbol is the king of sports.

The Harlingen Cardinals have won four straight district titles and have advanced to three straight Class 5A Division I Regional finals, including one State 5A Division I Quarterfinal appearance in 2011.

This season will not be any different as the Cards will be tested early on against San Antonio Johnson from District 26-5A. The Jaguars are picked to win its district. This will be a challenge for the Cardinals on August 31 at Boggus Stadium.

The biggest advantage that District 32-5A will have over the Cardinals is that only three starters return on offense from a team that scored a record breaking 732 points in 14 games last season. To make matters worse, the Cards return only two starters on defense too. Sounds like a program that could miss the playoffs? Not so. Cardinal head coach Manny Gomez says that “this team could be better than last year.”

Brownsville I.S.D. did some major shuffling with its head football coaches by bringing back veteran coach Tom Chavez to the sidelines to coach the Rivera Raiders, while David Cantu (former Rivera coach) was reassigned to replace Mark Guess (new Brownsville ISD AD) at Veterans Memorial. Longtime head football coach from Pace, Rene Medrano was transferred to Hanna High School and William Deen will now coach the Pace Vikings. Whew! Both Porter (Hector Garcia) and Lopez (Michael Ramirez) coaches will stay put at their campuses.

Hopefully, with the new coaching changes all Brownsville teams will improve from their combined 18-34 record from 2011.

On the outskirts, Los Fresnos and head football coach Clint Finley will be favored to make the playoffs, along with Harlingen and Harlingen South. So who’s the fourth place contender? Hanna will be loaded with seven starters on both sides of the ball and they could challenge Harlingen for the district title, since the Cardinals will be rebuilding with only return three starters back on offense.

The team to watch will be the Harlingen South Hawks and QB Sean Montemayor with new coach Lanny Wilson. The junior quarterback will be starting his third season under center with more than 1,700 yards passing. On a side note, Rivera could pose a threat along with Brownsville Lopez for playoff spots too.

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los fresnos falcons (Los Fresnos, Tx)-The last time Los Fresnos had fewer than six wins in a season came in 2004 when the Falcons claimed a 4-5 record.

Since then, Los Fresnos has been among the Valley’s elite teams. They’ve gone 64-20 in the past seven seasons (an average of roughly 9-3 every year and a .762 winning percentage). They’ve had three 10-plus win seasons (2006, 2007, 2008) and advanced to the third round of the playoffs in each of those years, losing twice to San Antonio Reagan and once to perennial powerhouse Austin Westlake.

In 2007 the Falcons defeated Harlingen High 22-21 in the playoffs. Last year the Cardinals got their revenge - and then some - by handing Los Fresnos a 66-14 drubbing.

The two powers face each other in the newly aligned District 32-5A at Harlingen High’s Boggus Stadium on Oct. 5.

Returning are senior Quarterback Jonmichael Rosales (6-2, 185) and Akeem Simien (5-10, 170) at wideout and Nick Alegria (5-7, 175). The offense returns 5 starters, offensive lineman Joe Rodriguez (5-10, 260). The defense returns with Alegria playing two ways and at defensive back along with fellow junior

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Los Fresnos Falcons

District 32-5A

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 San Benito September 7 PSJA 14 Bro Hanna* 22 Bro Rivera* 28 Bro Lopez* October 5 Harlingen* 19 Bro Pace* 27 Bro Veterans* November 2 Bro Porter* 5 Har South*

H A H A H A H A H A

Head coach Mike Finley 2011 Overall Record Season 8-3 District 5-2

2011 Class 5A Division I Bi-District Finalist. Lost to Harlingen 66-14.

Players to Watch:

WR Akeem Siemen, 5’10 180lbs Sr. WR Nick Alegria, 5’11 175lbs Sr. QB Johnmichael Rosales 6’2 185lbs Sr.

Los Fresnos WR Akeem Siemen will lead the Falcons in 2012 in District 32-5A. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador) Mingo Hernandez (5-10, 185).

The defensive line will be led by

Joe Perez (5-11, 215), J.J. Hernandez and Cesar Encinia.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 26/26 Starters Returning O/D: 5/8 Enrollment: 2,825 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, & 2011. Lost to SA Reagan in State 5A Div I Regional Finals in 2008.

District 32-5AAAAA

Leo Aguilar Memorial Stadium is home to the 32-5A Los Fresnos Falcons with seating up to 7,500 fans.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

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6th Season

2011 Overall Record

Season 13-1 District 7-0

2011 State 5A Division I Quarterfinals.

Lost SA Madison 42-27.

Gilbert Bermea Harlingen High

Mark Anthony Rosales

Harlingen High

Erik Jorn Harlingen High

Ray Moreno Harlingen High

Returning Lettermen R/L: 24/3 Starters Returning O/D: 3/2 Enrollment: 2,826 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001,2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, & 2011. Made 5A State Quarter finlas in 2002, 2005, 2011.

watch are Erik Jorn, Brandon Vasquez, and Rey Gonzalez. Gomez isn’t necessarily overlooking the new District 32-5A but he, his coaching staff and players know that the ultimate goal is a state championship – something regularly talked about in the Cardinals locker room.

DidYOUknow?

The Harlingen Cardinals have been to three straight Class 5A Division I Regional finals since 2009.

Nathan Prado Harlingen High

Victor Cruz Harlingen High

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ATH Omar Hunter, 5’11 185lbs Sr. LB Gilbert Bermea, 5’11 200lbs Sr. LB Nathan Prado 5’10 185lbs Sr.

Omar Dumont Hunter Harlingen High

Rey Gonzalez Harlingen High HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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Harlingen Cardinals

Brandon Vasquez Harlingen High

Players to Watch:

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Head coach Manny Gomez

H

phy,” said head coach Manny Gomez.

Gomez, who starred on defense for the 1989 Cardinals team, enters his 17th season overall as a coach and 6th as a head coach.

He has a 54-9 overall record all with the Cards. “We have four returning on offense and two on defense,” Gomez said.

On offense, Brandon Garza will call the signals for the Cardinals offense. The quarterback was rated No. 1 at a camp in Round Rock and will have a staunch offensive line protecting him and ripping holes through the defense for playmakers Omar Dumont Hunter and Nathan Prado. Gomez believes this could be the best offensive line he’s ever coached.

The Cardinals offense will run multiple alignments, 95 percent of them coming out of the spread.

The defense, also multiple, will be a base 4-3 where the defense matches up with the personnel on the other side. Other players to

2012

August 31 SA Johnson September 7 San Benito 14 Bro Rivera 21 Bro Lopez October 5 Los Fresnos* 12 Bro Pace* 19 Bro Veterans* 26 Bro Porter* November 5 Har South* 8 Bro Hanna*

(Harlingen, Tx)-What can Harlingen do for an encore in the 2012 high school football season?

A lot of people really don’t want to know – especially the rest of the teams in the newly realigned District 32-5A. In 2010 the Cardinals averaged more than 45 points a game and manhandled teams left and right.

When asked what they could do for an encore then, they responded by scoring more than 700 points during the season, averaging nearly 51 a game and advancing to the state quarterfinals before San Antonio Madison finally chained down the Harlingen machine.

So, do you really want to see what Encore No. 3 could look like? For starters, the Cardinals will host San Antonio Johnson from District 26-5A on August 31st and then we’ll see what happens next.

“We’re just gonna pick up where we left off – that’s my philoso-

District 32-5AAAAA

harlingen cardinals District 32-5A

memorial chargers (Brownsville, Tx)-Ever since the Olympics finished and Mexico won the gold medal in soccer, by defeating Brazil, a lot of talk has focused on the fact that Mexico’s younger teams (like Under-17…) were winning world championships. The logic leads fans to believe that Mexico will be dominant in the sport for years to come. Makes sense, right?

So, is it fair to say then that the Brownsville Veterans Memorial high school football team should be competitive at the least when they kick off their first varsity season this year? Only time will tell.

The Chargers, who played a sub-varsity schedule for the past two seasons - have combined for a 17-1 record during that time frame.

Now with a varsity schedule that includes Browns-

ville’s other five teams, Harlingen, Harlingen South and Los Fresnos, first-year head coach David Cantu looks to make the logic stick.

The Chargers take to the field for their first varsity football game Aug. 31 at Class 3A Port Isabel then travel to Class 4A Rio Grande City on Sept. 7.

Cantu replaced Mark Guess, who head coached the Chargers through their two seasons of sub-varsity play. Guess was named Brownsville Independent School District Athletic Director in the summer, leaving the position open for Cantu. Cantu had spent the past two seasons at Brownsville Rivera. Before that stint he was the offensive coordinator for six years at powerful Los Fresnos.

The Charger’s roster is obviously filled with juniors and seniors. The offensive line looks to be solid with junior Adrian Garcia (6-0, 300) at center and teamed with senior Teddy Cepeda (5-9, 275). Senior Alex Palacios (5-0, 130) is listed at running back and will compete

Players to Watch:

OL Teddy Cepeda, 5’10 275lbs Sr. DE Armando Correra, 5’9 215lbs Sr. RB Alexis Palacios 5’0 135lbs Sr.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Port Isabel September 7 RGC 14 Bro Porter* 21 Har South* 27 Bro Hanna* October 4 Bro Rivera* 12 Bro Lopez* 19 Harlingen* 27 Los Fresnos* November 3 Bro Pace*

Returning Lettermen R/L: 14/24 Starters Returning O/D: 8/8 Enrollment: 2,495 State playoffs appearances since 2000: First season. for carries with Adrian Alejandro (5-5, 140) and fullback Matthew Franco (5-8, 165). Armando Correa (5-9, 215) and Angel Arrellano (5-6, 190) were penciled in as defensive ends, Oscar Baez (6-0, 180) listed at free safety and Ricardo Carlos (5-10, 160) at strong safety.

The Brownsville Veterans Memorial Chargers open their inaugural District 32-5A schedule Sept. 14 against sister school -- and rival now, of course -Brownsville Porter. Look for the Brownsville Veterans Memorial Chargers to take charge when the season kickoffs August 31st.

A A H A H A H A H A

Head coach David Cantu 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 0-0 District 0-0

District 32-5AAAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Brownsville Veterans

Brownsville Veterans

Alexis Palacios Brownsville Veterans

Adrian Alejanoro Brownsville Veterans

Matthew Franco Brownsville Veterans

Oscar Baez Brownsville Veterans

Luis Mallozzi Brownsville Veterans

Angel Arrellano Brownsville Veterans

Armando Correra Brownsville Veterans

Jesus Tobar Brownsville Veterans

Teddy Cepeda Brownsville Veterans

Adrian Garcia Brownsville Veterans

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

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H A H A H

Head coach Lanny Wilson 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 2-8 District 2-5

Players to Watch:

WR Akeem Siemen, 5’10 180lbs Sr. WR Nick Alegria, 5’11 175lbs Sr. QB Johnmichael Rosales 6’2 185lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 26/26 Starters Returning O/D: 5/8 Enrollment: 2,825 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2002, 2003, 2006, & 2007.

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

H A H A

Garza (5-10, 145), who rushed for more than 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.

Harlingen South is coming off a 2-8 record and hasn’t had very much success lately in their district, going 5-33 since the 2008 season. The Hawks have also been dominated by city rival Harlingen, losing by an average score of 66-10 during those four years.

The year before however, in 2007, Harlingen South defeated Harlingen 21-7 en route to a 7-0 record in the district and a 12-1 overall record. The Hawks advanced to the third round of three playoffs that year.

The Harlingen South defense, which gave up about 36 points a game last season, will be led by linebackers Austin Lambert (5-8, 175), who led the team with 180 tackles last season and Brandon Rodriguez (5-6, 169). The defensive line will look to senior Santiago Flores (5-11, 200), and junior Kristian Rodriguez (5-8, 215) to turn things around.

First-year head coach Lanny Wilson takes over the Harlingen South helm and has put those past four years far away in everyone’s memory. With a load of skill position players, the Hawks are hoping to jump back into playoff contention. That could come down to the final two weeks of the season when Harlingen South faces Harlingen on Nov. 2 and Los Fresnos on Nov. 9, the regular-season finale. But for now, the Hawks will fly South for a playoff spot in 2012 in 32-5A.

2012

August 31 McA Rowe September 7 PSJA Mem 13 Bro Pace* 21 Bro Veterans* 29 Bro Porter* October 12 Bro Hanna* 20 Bro Rivera* 26 Bro Lopez* November 2 Harlingen* 9 Los Fresnos*

(Harlingen, Tx)-Harlingen this….

The Cardinals will…Harlingen, Harlingen, Harlingen. When Harlingen is brought to mind during football season, many minds go to the powerhouse Cardinals, who have made a name for themselves by dominating all Valley competitors and even advancing to the fourth round of the state playoffs last year. But there’s another District 32-5A school in Harlingen.

They also plan to make some noise down South this year - and lot’s of it too.

The Harlingen South Hawks have the district’s top returning quarterback with junior Sean Montemayor (5-7, 170), who passed for more than 1,700 yards and 18 touchdowns. His top targets include Nick Garcia (6-0, 165), Jason Saenz (6-2, 200) and Jacob Villarreal (5-11, 160) and sophomore Jaedon Taylor (5-9, 165), who may also see some time in the backfield.

Montemayor also has returning in the backfield senior Oscar

Jacob Villarreal Harlingen South

Nick Garcia Harlingen South

Sean Montemayor Harlingen South

Kristian Rodriguez Harlingen South

Santiago Flores Harlingen South

Jaedon Taylor Harlingen South

Jerry Munoz Harlingen South

Rudy Bevlanga Harlingen South

Jason Sqonz Harlingen South

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Harlingen South Hawks

Carlos Del-Angel Harlingen South

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District 32-5AAAAA

south hawks Harlingen

(Brownsville, Tx)-Three 1-9 seasons in the past six seasons, most recently last season. That combined record is 5-26 over the past three seasons and 14-40 in the past six seasons - including a 6-5 record, and a playoff berth, in the 2008 season.

That’s what head coach Hector Garcia has facing him this season as he enters his fourth season at the Porter Cowboys helm.

To make matters tougher for the Cowboys, they lost a slew of players to graduation and return just three starters on offense and four on defense return.

Garcia said he believes the team is making adjustments and there’s just been a learning curve as he instituted a new system. Now in their fourth season, he’s expecting improvement whether or not enough to

make the playoffs is still questionable, but the Cowboys still have some skilled positions players with solid numbers returning. A few offensive sparks and the Cowboys could surprise some people.

Highlighting those skilled positions are a trio of players. Joel Garza (6-0, 180) will take over the quarterback reins after playing linebacker and wide receivers last season. His prime targets will be Luis Garza (5-5, 146) and possibly Mario Villa (5-7, 150). Garza hauled in more than 700 yards through the air last year. Brownsville Porter also returns starting running back Arturo Medina (5-10, 175).

Players vying for time along the offensive front include Robert Payan (6-0, 210), Eric Rodriguez (5-9, 195) and Bryan Gamboa. Edgardo Vidal 5-7, 185) spearheads the defense and will play a crucial role if the Cowboys are going to improve

upon most recent years. Oscar Gonzalez (5-11, 155) and Alan Govea (5-9, 220) will also compete for time in the middle of the Porter defense. Rolando Soto (6-0, 210) and Dante Vazquez (5-7, 165) are listed at defensive ends and Villa and Angle Rodriguez (5-9, 140) are penciled in as players to watch in the secondary.

Porter opens the season at home against Edinburg Economedes (Sept. 1) and on the road at La Joya. Two wins there could mean a competitive season for the Cowboys. “Our players are ready for 2012,” says Garcia.

Players to Watch:

RB Arturo Medina, 5’7 140lbs Sr. QB Joel Garza, 6’0 165lbs Sr. DE Rolando Soto 6’0 210lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 8/20 Starters Returning O/D: 3/5 Enrollment: 2,219 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2004 & 2008

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES September 1 Economedes 7 La Joya 14 Bro Veterans* 29 Har South* October 6 Bro Hanna* 13 Bro Rivera* 19 Bro Lopez* 25 Harlingen* November 2 Los Fresnos* 9 Bro Pace*

H A A H A H A H A H

Head coach Hector Garcia 4th season 2011 Overall Record Season 1-9 District 1-6

District 32-5AAAAA

2012

Brownsville Porter Cowboys FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

porter cowboys Brownsville

Luis Garza Brownsville Porter

Mario Villa Brownsville Porter

Arturo Medina Brownsville Porter

Oscar Gonzalez Brownsville Porter

Joel Garza Brownsville Porter

Zdardo Vidal Brownsville Porter

Rolando Soto Brownsville Porter

Raul Velez Brownsville Porter

Erik Rodriguez Brownsville Porter

Jared Vallego 21 Brownsville Porter

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District 32-5AAAAA

rivera raiders Brownsville

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

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H A H A H

Head coach Tom Chavez 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 2-8 District 1-6

Players to Watch:

DT Juan Perez, 5’11 210lbs Sr. LB Manny Trevino, 5’11 170lbs Sr. RB Jacquil Evans 5’10 185lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 25/14 Starters Returning O/D: 8/8 Enrollment: 2,268 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2002 & 2003

said the team will have various formations but will go with six players in the box on most occasions.

While he’s not running the spread, he knows he’s going to face it numerous times and wants to run a defense flexible enough to deal with any formation he faces. Joey Fernandez (5-4, 165) and Juan Perez (5-11, 200) will also be key for the Raiders on defense.

DidYOUknow?

Tom Chavez first coached the Rivera Raiders and led them to back-to-back playoffs in 2002 & 2003.

Cesar Garcia Brownsville Rivera

Manuel Trevino Brownsville Rivera

Manuel Martinez Brownsville Rivera

Chris Montes Brownsville Rivera

David Gutierrez Brownsville Rivera

Joey Fernandez Brownsville Rivera

Alfonso Torres Brownsville Rivera

Jorge Botello Brownsville Rivera

Alex Briseno Brownsville Rivera

Leo Tejada Brownsville Rivera

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FOOTBALL Brownsville Rivera Raiders //////////////////////////////////////////////

H A H A

gotta be some reason the pros don’t run it.”

Running backs Jacquil Evans (5-9, 185) and Alfonso Torres (5-6, 160) will be featured in the backfield taking handoffs from returning starter Manny Martinez (5-9, 155) and maybe some from sophomore Danny Elizondo (510, 170).

Chavez said there are four capable quarterbacks on the teams, a possible result of running the spread offense. The difference now, however, is that none of those quarterback have spent significant time under center.

“We’ve changed all that and it’s been all right. The kids are buying in. They are coming to practice in the heat, not missing any days and working hard,” he said. “We’re not here to wait for three years to get the program going. We want to get it going right away.”

Manny Trevino (5-9, 175) returns at the middle linebacker spot and will be called on to line up the rest of the defense. Chavez

2012

August 30 Mission Vets September 7 Ed North 14 Harlingen* 22 Los Fresnos* 28 Bro Pace* October 4 Bro Veterans* 13 Bro Porter* 20 Har South* 26 Bro Hanna* November 10 Bro Lopez*

(Brownsville, Tx)-A lot of teams in the Rio Grande Valley have gone to the spread offense in recent years. You won’t be seeing Tom Chavez or the Brownsville Rivera Raiders going to it anytime soon. In fact, Chavez, who is back to coach the Rivera Raiders for the second time in his career is doing just the opposite. He’s going from the spread game to a more controlled running attack. It will pass as well, but the key to the Rivera season could be in how many first downs they can ground out on each drive, slowing down the high-flying spread teams.

“I’m more of a control guy,” Chavez said. I’m not going to get into that college offense that everyone else seems to be going to.

We’ll get under center, run out of the I formation and a couple others, we’ll play action pass, we’ll even get into the one-back set.

“They must enjoy watching that spread on television. It takes a lot of quality skilled-position players to run and develop that. There’s

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

H

H A H A H A

Head coach Michael Ramirez 2nd Season 2011 Overall Record Season 3-7 District 2-5

season continued. “We were playing the tougher teams deeper and I saw us getting better - I think our opponents would say they saw a difference in our team too.”

The Lobos don’t have a lot of starters returning (four offense, three defense) but Ramirez is excited about the quality of those returner.

Gilbert Vasquez (6-0. 190) is a three-year letterman returning at the quarterback slot. His main target in the backfield will be fullback Manuel Banda (5-9, 190). Ramirez said there are several players who can come in and out at wideout and force defenses to have to cover the entire field.

Mando Castillo (6-2, 260) is the only returning offensive lineman returning.

“We was really raw and had lots of potential last year,” Ramirez said. “We’re excited about him.

He’s a lot stronger.” Danny Cisneros (6-2, 205) will lead the defense from the middle linebacker slot and will be joined by Rene

Players to Watch:

DT Victor Ledesma, 6’0 245lbs Sr. QB Gilbert Vasquez, 6’0 185lbs Sr. LB Daniel Cisneros 6’2 205lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 15/29 Starters Returning O/D: 4/3 Enrollment: 2,328 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2002, 2005, & 2006 Aguilar (5-8, 175). Defensive ends (known as the twin towers) Richard Trujillo and Luis Torres (6-2, 210) will be on the outsides of the line on defense. Carlos Nieto (5-10) and Alex Garcia (5-8, 150) will shore up the secondary.

The Lobos will open against Harlingen at Sams Stadium with hopes of an upset on September 20th. Kickogg is set for 7:30 p.m.

DidYOUknow?

Tom Chavez first coached the Rivera Raiders and led them to back-to-back playoffs in 2002 & 2003.

Rene Aguilar Brownsville Lopez

Gilbert Vasquez Brownsville Lopez

Manuel Banda Brownsville Lopez

Artie Cortez Brownsville Lopez

Marco Zarco Brownsville Lopez

Mando Castillo Brownsville Lopez

Jose Luis Gutierrez Brownsville Lopez

Rudy Balli Brownsville Lopez

Carlos Nieto 23 Brownsville Lopez

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Brownsville Lopez Lobos

Luis Aguilar Brownsville Lopez

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FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

A H A

(Brownsville, Tx)-Brownsville Lopez equaled its victory total (3) last year that it had accumulated the previous three seasons (1-9, 1-9, 1-9). However, it didn’t meet the expectations of second-year head coach Michael Ramirez, but it did give the Lobos something to on. “The next step is a winning season,” Ramirez said. “We haven’t had a winning season in a while. We hope to make the playoffs this year.”

Ramirez and staff came in last season and changed the football philosophy. Gone is the spread team; in is more of a power game.

“We were a finesse team I guess you could say,” Ramirez said. “I don’t think finesse is a word that jives with football. I wanted to get more physical. That’s the type of team I want us to be.”

Ramirez said that in the games the Lobos won (Edinburg Economedes, Brownsville Porter, Brownsville Hanna), he saw a much more physical team. He also saw better competition as the

2012

August 31 La Joya September 7 Valley View 20 Harlingen* 28 Los Fresnos* October 5 Bro Pace* 12 Bro Veterans* 19 Bro Porter* 26 Har South* November 2 Bro Hanna* 10 Bro Rivera*

lobos

District 32-5AAAAA

lopez Brownsville

(Brownsville, Tx)-Rene Medrano comes into Brownsville Hanna with the Eagles coming off rough back-toback seasons - 3-7 and 1-9 respectively. But he’s not looking to turn the Eagles into overnight sensations (he’ll take it of course) but he’s looking to build a program for the long haul.

But he also knows with seven starters returning on each side of the ball, there could be some good things happening as soon as now.

Of course, it was just three seasons ago, in 2009, that Hanna won its district without a blemish and compiled a 9-0 overall record.

Medrano sees some positives from a three-game stretch midway through last season where the Eagles defeated La Joya, Brownsville Porter and Brownsville Rivera back-to-back-to back.

That street was ended in a

10-6 setback to Brownsville Pace.

“I know they were pretty scrappy and played really well in some tight games,” Medrano said. “The good thing is that there are a lot of players coming back and they don’t lack the experience of being in close games. That will just help them be on top this time.”

Medrano said the toughest challenge the players face is adjusting to new coaches and a new system.

Jacob Molina (5-7, 150) returns at the quarterback position and Medrano said Molina’s been feeling some pressure from some other quarterback hopefuls. “Having competition from inside is good,” the first-year coach said. Secondteam all district Danny Garcia (510, 185) will again be seen in the backfield, now in the Eagles’ oneback spread offense. He’ll also be used at wideout. Tight end Chuck Atkinson (6-1, 215) will also be a big target for Molina. Atkinson was injured midway through last season and should have a solid senior campaign. Fullback Travis

Greiner (5-7, 221) will see plenty of time in the Eagles backfield.

“It’s all going to come down to protection,” Medrano said. “We will really have to work that. Our size isn’t bad and the kids have been hitting the weights. We’ve got a few 5-11 and 6-foot kids there so the strength is there.”

The 3-4 defense will be anchored by returning outside linebacker Victor Quezada (5-9, 189) and will be joined by returning starter Kevin Pizana (5-10, 205).

John Ray (5-8, 165) will back them up at the safety slot and Javier Mascorro (6-0, 240) will anchor the defensive front.

Players to Watch:

TE Charles Atkinson, 6’1 215lbs Sr. DT Javier Mascorro, 6’0 240lbs Sr. DE John Marquez 6’0 200lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 33/18 Starters Returning O/D: 7/7 Enrollment: 3,041 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001 & 2009 . Went undefeated in 32-5A

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 30 Sharyland September 7 Mission 14 Los Fresnos* 21 Bro Pace* 27 Bro Veterans* October 6 Bro Porter* 12 Har South* 26 Bro Rivera* November 2 Bro Lopez* 8 Harlingen*

H A A H A H A H A H

Head coach Rene Medrano 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 3-7 District 2-5

and won district title in 2009.

District 32-5AAAAA

2012

Brownsville Hanna Eagles FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

hannaeagles Brownsville

Jacob Molina Brownsville Hanna

Danny Garcia Brownsville Hanna

Ramiro Olivares Brownsville Hanna

Joel Rodriguez Brownsville Hanna

Jesse San Miguel Brownsville Hanna

Travis Grienier Brownsville Hanna

Ryan Cisneros Brownsville Hanna

Charles Atkinson Brownsville Hanna

Victor Quezada Brownsville Hanna

Javier Mascorro Brownsville Hanna

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We Are Proud of Our Student Athletes.

At Brownsville ISD, We Are Striving to Become the Best.

1 Blvd 2615 Price Road 956.548.7600 Rene Medrano, Athletic Coordinator

6955 FM 802 956.831.8700 Tom Chavez, Athletic Coordinator

4550 U.S. Military Hwy 281 3205 S. Dakota Avenue 956.982.7400 956.574.5600 of Champions/Sams Stadium Michael Ramirez, Athletic Coordinator David Cantu, Athletic Coordinator Mark Guess, Director of Athletics 956.548.8261

3500 Int’l Blvd 956.548.7800 Hector Garcia, Athletic Coordinator

314 W. Los Ebanos Blvd 956.548.7700 William Deen, Athletic Coordinator

1 Blvd. of Champions/Sams Stadium Mark Guess-Director of Athletics

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(Brownsville, Tx)-Brownsville Pace advanced to the playoffs in 2007 after coming off a miserable 2006 campaign with a 3-7 record.

Strange thing is, one year later, the Vikings again went 3-7 - but made the playoffs.

As you may have guessed, they got knocked out in the first round of those 2007 playoffs. Not too impressive, huh?

But you know what’s been impressive? That playoff appearance was the first of what has now been five straight playoff appearances and no fewer than six wins in each of the past for seasons.

Last year was the best of that span as the Vikings completed an 8-2 campaign and defeated PSJA North 42-21 in the first round of the playoffs before falling victim to Alexander, 35-6.

But there have been a lot

of changes since that season and the Vikings may be hard pressed to repeat that success. Gone are most of a group of all-district players. Gone is head coach Rene Medrano, who was reassigned within the district and now coaches at Brownsville Hanna.

However, in his first-year as head coach William Deen still has some skilled players to keep the Vikings in contention in the newly aligned District 32-5A, home of six Brownsville schools, Harlingen, Harlingen South and Los Fresnos. “I am overwhelmed with the opportunity that has been given to me,” said Deen. “This means a lot.”

Deen most recently was defensive coordinator at Brownsville Hanna. He also spent time coaching at Brownsville Rivera, Brownsville Porter, Harlingen South and Odessa High School.

Deen was named head football coach in late April of 2012.

Adrian Alejandro will be the key in an offense that returns few

starters. He was the district’s offensive newcomer of the year.

Hiram Morales (6-2, 255) will also play a key role offensively on the offensive line and will work with Jorge Perdomo (5-11, 250) and Jose Gutierrez (6-0, 250).

Deen lists senior Brandon Ramos (5-9, 170) at quarterback and sophomore Jose Arturo Vilano (5-9, 176) at quarterback/wide receiver.

The Brownsville Pace Raiders open their season Aug. 30 at PSJA Southwest before coming home Sept. 6 against Nikki Rowe. Their District 32-5A season opener is Sept. 13 at Harlingen South.

Players to Watch:

OL Hiram Morales, 6’2 235lbs Sr. OL Jose Gutierrez, 6’0 250lbs Sr. OL Jorge Perdomo 5’11 245lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 17/19 Starters Returning O/D: 3/4 Enrollment: 2,202 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, & 2011.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 30 PSJA SW September 6 McA Rowe 13 Har South* 21 Bro Hanna* 28 Bro Rivera* October 5 Bro Lopez* 11 Harlingen* 19 Los Fresnos* November 3 Bro Veterans* 9 Bro Porter*

A H H A H A H A A H

Head coach William Deen 1st Year

2011 Overall Record

Season 11-2 District 7-2

Won Class 5A Division II Bi-District title in 2011.

District 32-5AAAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Brownsville Pace Vikings

pace vikings Brownsville

Jose Arturo Vilano Brownsville Pace

Brandon Ramos Brownsville Pace

Christian Jacoba Brownsville Pace

Oscar Martinez Brownsville Pace

Hiram Morales Brownsville Pace

Jorge Perdomo Brownsville Pace

Jose Gutierrez Brownsville Pace

Sams Stadium is home to six Brownsville ISD Schools. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador

46 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

Daniel Cordevas Brownsville Pace

3

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FOOTBALL PREVIEW

REPORTS PREDICTIONS REALIGNMENTS

2012

32-4A THEPREDICTIONS BY TDDAVE

1. Edcouch-Elsa 2. Mercedes 3. Rio Grande City 4. Mission 5. Mission Veterans 6. Roma 7. PSJA Southwest 8. Valley View PRESEASON OFFENSIVE MVP: QB Isaiah Garza, 5’8, 160LBS-Mercedes H.S. PRESEASON DEFENSIVE MVP: LB Otoniel Garcia, 6’0, 190LBS-Rio Grande City H.S.

BY DAVID “TDDAVE” AMADOR HSSM SPORTS DIRECTOR

(Mercedes, Tx)-The Mercedes Tigers will begin its quest of winning a district title by taking on state-ranked Calallen on August 31st at home while newcomer to the district, PSJA Southwest will be kicking off the season on August 30th with Brownsville Pace at the newly-reconstructed PSJA Stadium, which will sit 11,000 fans. Rio Grande City will meet Edinburg North at home on August 30th playing in front of the big screen. “That scoreboard and video tron is huge. I just hope that we don’t run too many replays of our offense on that board,” laughs head coach Carlos Longoria of Rio Grande City.

Last season, the Weslaco East Wildcats won the District 324A title but have since moved up to the Class 5A ranks. This will leave the district title up for grabs with favorites EdcouchElsa, Rio Grande City, and Mercedes all vying for the title. With Mission moving down to the 4A classification, the Eagles could reclaim the title too. The Eagles won the 32-4A title in 2009 with head coach Mario Pena taking over the program. They went undefeated in district play and also advanced to the Class 4A Di-

vision I area playoffs before losing at heart breaker to GregoryPortland 12-7. The following season the Eagles were realigned back to Class 5A and posted a 4-6 record in District 30-5A in 2010 and finished 2011 with a disappointing 2-8 record. “This will be a great challenge that’s why we are playing Calallen. We need to play a tough non-district schedule inorder to improve,” adds Mercedes head coach Mike Uribe.

Last year the Mercedes Tigers, Edcouch-Elsa Yellowjackets, Rio Grande City Rattlers, and East Wildcats all advanced to the state playoffs and with Calallen realigned to District 30-4A, this means that District 32-4A will meet District 31-4A. A chance to move past the first round of the state playoffs. The newly realigned 31-4A district will be made up of Alice, Nixon, Corpus Christi Ray, Laredo Cigarroa, Laredo Martin, Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi Moody, and Corpus Christi Miller. Roma has taken a jump start by scheduling non-district games with Martin (8/31) and Cigarroa (9/14). The Gladiators missed the playoffs in 2011 with a season finale loss to Mercedes in overtime 35-28.

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psja southwest javelinas (Pharr, Tx)-The PSJA Southwest Javelinas will make their varsity debut this season under head coach Jesus Reyes. After finding success as a junior varsity program last year, the Javelinas will try to “play it forward” and find some success on the varsity level. PSJA Southwest is the fourth high school for the PSJA school district.

Reyes has been with the program since the school opened and has been a coach within the PSJA school district for years.

PSJA Southwest makes its debut as a varsity squad Aug. 30 against District 325A’s Brownsville Pace.

The Javelinas will no doubt be a young squad but one look at their roster shows that they should have size and speed in areas where they’ll try to take ad-

vantage of their opponents.

On offense, sophomore tight end Luis Gutierrez (6-1, 220) is the perfect example. He could more than likely cause a lot of matchup problems against linebackers and defensive secondaries. Fellow sophomore Carlos Portales (5-10, 176) will be the one trying to locate Gutierrez in those mismatches at quarterback.

Homero Alaniz (6-0, 155), another sophomore will line up at wideout. Junior Martin Saldana 5-10, 155) is expected to carry the bulk of the work in the backfield for the Javelinas and could share time junior Jessie Villarreal (5-5, 160) and sophomore Carlos Marquez (5-7, 156). Penciled in along the line are juniors Gilbert Galvan (5-11, 270) and Jonathan Soto (56, 215).

The defensive line will look at junior defensive ends German Beltran (6-1, 200) and Joe Martinez (5-10, 210) to clog the offense’s running games. Looking

Players to Watch:

OL Jonathon Soto, 5’6 215lbs Jr. RB Jesse Villarreal, 5’5 160lbs Jr. DB Lorenzo Huerta 5’4 135lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 0/0 Starters Returning O/D: 0/0 Enrollment: 1,722 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 1st season

to stop the pass will be junior defensive back Lorenzo Huerta (5-4, 134) and Osiel Zuniga. In between those two, sophomore linebacker Carlos Marquez will play a key role in making the sure the defenses are lined up.

The Javelinas travel to Rio Grande City to face the Rattlers in the mutual opener for both schools in District 32-4A. The following week, Mercedes comes to PSJA Southwest for the Javelinas’ district home opener at the newly remodeled PSJA Stadium featuring new press boxes, stadium seating to accommodate up to 11,000 fans.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 30 Bro Pace September 8 Robert Vela 14 Grulla HS 28 RGC* October 5 Mercedes* 12 Valley View* 19 Ed-Elsa* 26 Roma* November 1 Mission* 9 Bro Veterans*

H H A A H A H A H A

Head coach Jesus Reyes 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 0-0 District 0-0

District 32-4AAAA

2012

PSJA Southwest Javelinas FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

District 32-4A

Carlos Portales PSJA Southwest

Jorge Cantu PSJA Southwest

Lorenzo Huerta PSJA Southwest

Jose Garcia PSJA Southwest

Jessie Villarreal PSJA Southwest

Faustino Sadana PSJA Southwest

Manny Garza PSJA Southwest

Gilbert Galvan PSJA Southwest

Joe Martinez PSJA Southwest

Luis Gutierrez PSJA Southwest

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rio grande city rattlers HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

H

A A H A H A

Head coach Carlos Longoria 2nd season 2011 Overall Record Season 6-5 District 6-2

Advanced to Class 4A Div I Bi-District Lost to Flour Bluff 39-36

Otoniel Garcia Rio Grande City

Andrew Pratt Rio Grande City

Luis Lauro Lopez Rio Grande City

Jose Rubukava Rio Grande City

OL Erik Martinez, 6’0 230lbs Sr. DL Jesus Lucero Jr, 5’11 223lbs Sr. OL Andrew Pratt 6’2 285lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 24/26 Starters Returning O/D: 4/6 Enrollment: 2,003 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2006, 2009, & 2011.

Greene Delgado (5-9, 145) will also be a viable option.

Jesus Lucero Jr. (5-11, 223) will attack from the defensive tackle position and outside linebacker Otoniel Garcia (60, 189) will be the defensive field general. Garcia amassed 65 tackles and 10 sacks last season and is considered the top defensive returner for the region. Safety Alex Sanchez (5-8), 175) returned one of his three interceptions back for a touchdown last year and added tackles. He was a secondteam all-district honoree.

Taylor Greene Delgado

Rio Grande City

Carlos Robles Rio Grande City

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Erick Martinez Rio Grande City

Jesus Lucero Jr. Rio Grande City HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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Rio Grande City Rattlers

Alejandro Sanchez Rio Grande City

Players to Watch:

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

H A H

where the offense floundered, scoring just 14 points total, Rio Grande City reared back and struck. The Rattlers went 4-1 over the next five games, averaging 37.5 points in those victories. The only loss during that run came to Weslaco East, 28-14.

The Rattlers haven’t made the playoffs in back-to-back seasons since the 1998-1999 seasons. Their offense could be enough to end that skid, getting them back into the playoffs and possibly contend with perennial superpower EdcouchElsa. The Yellow Jackets defeated the Rattlers 42-21 last season.

Players to watch are Andrew Pratt (6-2, 285), Erick Martinez (6-0, 230) and Carlos Robles (510, 253) give the Rattlers enough size and strength up front to again go quick in District 32-4A. They’ll protect junior quarterback Noe Gonzalez III (6-0, 174) who can not only throw but, if needed, can take off with the football. WR J.D Hernandez (5-7, 158) will be his key target along while Taylor

2012

August 30 Ed North September 7 Bro Veterans 20 United South 28 PSJA SW* October 5 Roma* 12 Mercedes* 19 Mission* 26 Valley View* November 1 Bro Veterans* 9 Ed-Elsa*

(Rio Grande City, Tx)-There are a lot of differing philosophies throughout the Rio Grande Valley regarding the spread offense.

“Finesse and football just don’t jive.”

“It takes too many skill players to make it work.”

“It keeps bigger, stronger defenses off balance and the speed wears them out.”

But no matter what the pros and cons are, one thing is for certain - the spread did wonders at Rio Grande City last year.

Carlos Longoria took over the helm last year following a 1-9 record during the 2009 season.

He and his coaches put in the spread formation and the Rattlers rarely looked back, running to a 6-5 record - 6-2 in the district.

Rio Grande City also advanced to the State 4A Division I playoffs and barely fell to Flour Bluff during a first-round offensive fiasco, 39-36.

After two non-district losses

District 32-4AAAA

District 32-4A

mercedes tigers (Mercedes, Tx)-The focus is all the same when it comes to District 324A for the 2012 season.

Most eyes are focused on Edcouch-Elsa’s return to dominance. Many eyes are watching the upstart Rio Grande City Rattlers and their second year in the spread offense.

Some eyes, however, are taking glances at head coach Mike Uribe and the Mercedes Tigers.

Not known for being a powerhouse, but for being a consistent performing squad over the past seven seasons (a 42-35 record, .545 winning percentage, no fewer than four wins, no more than eight), 2012 could be a breakout season for the Mercedes Tigers.

Mercedes returns six offensive starters from a year ago. Just like Rio Grande City and Edcouch-Elsa, the Tigers return much

better than average skill position players. Quarterback Isaiah Garza (5-9, 150) combined for 2,100 yards rushing and passing, and 16 touchdowns. He again will guide what should be a potent Mercedes offense. His top targets downfield will be receiver Carlos Quintanilla (5-8, 152) and fellow senior Brandon Hernandez (5-11, 180).

Garza and Quintanilla are the top returning yardage leaders in the district at their respective positions. Gilbert Vela (5-7, 175), a standout special teams player last year, and Matthew Guzman (55, 165) will add speed and more threats in the Tigers’ backfield.

Mercedes started its season last year more like turtles than Tigers. Their only win during the first seven games of the season came against Mission Veterans Memorial. But following a 1-6 start - the last game being a tight 23-21 loss to Hidalgo - something clicked and the Tigers went on a three-game win streak with victories over La Joya Juarez-Lincoln, Valley View and Roma. They lit-

Players to Watch:

WR Carlos Quintanilla, 5’8 152lbs Sr. WR Brandon Hernandez, 5’11 180lbs Sr. QB Isaiah Garza 150lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 19/21 Starters Returning O/D: 6/4 Enrollment: 1,487 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, & 2011.

Advanced to the State 4A Division II Bi-District finals for the past six straight seasons.

erally clawed their way to a sixth straight playoff appearance before falling to Calallen in the first round.

The Tigers have four returning defensive starters led by linebacker Gerardo (5-5, 195). Senior Robbie Garcia (5-8, 255) and Rick Hinojosa (5-11, 270) will be key cogs on the defensive line and Leo Ramirez and TJ De la Cerda will be the last line of defense in the secondary.

The Tigers will surely get a taste of where they stand right off the bat when they host Calallen for their season opener Aug. 31.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Calallen September 7 Hidalgo 14 La Feria 21 MissionVets* October 5 PSJA SW* 12 RGC* 19 Valley View* 26 Ed-Elsa* November 2 Roma* 8 Mission*

H H A H A H H A H A

Head coach Mike Uribe 4th Season 2011 Overall Record Season 4-7 District 4-4 Class 4A Div II Bi-District Lost to Calallen 46-10

District 32-4AAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Mercedes Tigers

District 32-4A

Leo Ramirez Mercedes

Isaiah Garza Mercedes

Sal Rivera Mercedes

Lee Gomez Mercedes

50 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

Brandon Hernandez Mercedes

RJ Garza Mercedes

Matthew Guzman Mercedes

2012

Mercedes TIGERS

State Playoffs Playoffs Since Since 2000: 2000: 2006, 2006, 2007, 2007, 2008, 2008, 2009, 2009, 2010, 2010, 2011 2011 State

32-4AAAA Varsity Schedule H H A H A H H A H A

August 31 Calallen Sept 7 Hidalgo Sept 14 La Feria Sept 21 Mission Veterans* Oct 5 PSJA Southwest* Oct 12 Rio Grande City * Oct 19 Valley View* Oct 26 Edcouch-Elsa* Nov 2 Roma* Nov 8 Mission* **December 20-22, 2012 UIL State Championships (Site to be announced)

Advertisement paid by Mercedes ISD.

www.misdtx.schoolwires.com Mercedes High School Principal Patricia Masso Mercedes ISD Superintendent Dr. Daniel Trevino Jr. Head Football Coach Mercedes Athletic Director Michael Uribe

1200 South Florida Mercedes, Texas 956-514-2100

valley view tigers (Pharr, Tx)-The Valley View Tigers have one goal in mind. Improvement.

Football has been a struggle in this town - 1-9 four times and 0-10 twice in the past six years - but there’s no giving up. Every year is new and every year brings opportunities. That doesn’t mean suddenly you’re doing to see Valley View at the upper echelons of the district - but winning can become contagious and the numbers continue to show for football every offseason.

Those opportunities could be snapped into the hands of quarterback Johnny Vasquez (6-1, 165), who returns as the Tigers’ signal caller.

Vasquez threw for 340 yards and five touchdowns last year while also rushing for nearly 200 yards. He knows he’ll be protected with Victor Rodriguez (5-11, 280)

anchoring the offensive line at center. “We are hoping to improved every year. Our district is tough and playing teams like tradition rich teams like EdcouchElsa and Mercedes are always a challenge,” says head coach Christian Navarro,” As for Rodriguez, he earned alldistrict honors last year and if the offensive line can gel with him, that will be an area of strength for the Tigers. Alex Guajardo (5-10, 175) is a senior returning at running back for Valley View and will be the featured back as the Tigers look to improve offensively.

Valley View opened last season with a 20-2 victory over Progreso.

After that things unraveled. The team finished the year being shut out in four of their last six games.

They had a shot against district rival Hidalgo during that span but fell 25-20 in a hard fought matchup.

The Tigers once again open with

Players to Watch:

SS Carlos Perales, 5’10 165lbs Sr. RB Alex Guarjardo, 5’11 175lbs Sr. QB Juan Vasquez 6’1 165lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 6/6 Starters Returning O/D: 5/4 Enrollment: 1,302 State playoffs appearances since 2000: None.

Progreso on the road. They play Hidalgo - this time in a non-conference matchup - at home in their final warmup for a tough District 32-4A schedule.

On defense, Chris Zavala (6-0, 165) is speedy and will be leaned on to help improve a defense that allowed 37.5 points per game while the Tigers only scored 8.5 points per game. The secondary will also count on strong safety Carlos Perales (5-10, 165) and free safety Jerry Flores (5-10, 165).

The Tigers open district play at home against Mission on September 28th.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Progreso September 7 Bro Lopez 14 Hidalgo 28 Mission* October 4 Mission Vets* 12 PSJA SW* 19 Mercedes* 26 RGC* November 2 Ed-Elsa* 9 Roma*

A H H H A H A H H A

Head coach Christian Navarro 2nd season 2011 Overall Record Season 1-9 District 0-8

District 32-4AAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Valley View Tigers

District 32-4A

Juan Vasquez Valley View

Alexis Guajardo Valley View

Jerry Flores Valley View

Carlos Perales Valley View

Alex Melendez Valley View

Valley View ISD Tiger Stadium is home to the 32-4A Valley View football team with seating up to 5,000 fans.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

Amulfo Marin Valley View

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

H

H A H A A H

Head coach David Gilpin 5th Season 2011 Overall Record Season 2-8 District 2-6

Santos Villarreal Mission Veterans

Jorge Cavazos Mission Veterans

Steven O’Cana Mission Veterans

Players to Watch:

LB Hector Garza, 5’10 180lbs Sr. DT Matthew Rodriguez, 6’0 235lbs Sr. QB Santos Villarreal 5’11 170lbs Soph.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 22/23 Starters Returning O/D: 3/4 Enrollment: 1,902 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2004, 2009, 2010. the rest of the district.

Defense will be the strong point for Mission Veterans Memorial. Senior Hector Garza is one of the top linebackers in the district.

He amassed 103 tackles, a dozen for losses, and three forced fumbles. He will be joined in the middle of the field by Andrew Ochoa (5-9, 170). The defensive front is anchored by Matt Rodriguez (5-11, 245). In the secondary, cornerback Abraham Munguia and safety Julian Meza.

Hector Garza Mission Veterans

Andrew Ochoa Mission Veterans RN on Call 24hrs 7 Days a week Business Hours Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-to-5:00 p.m.

Big Game Stress You Out? 1820 E. Griffin Pkwy Ste Ste F&J River Oaks Plaza Mission, Texas 78572

Open Monday thru Saturday

By Appointment only

Griselda Perez Lic.#MT110654

Santa Maria Health Care

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FOOTBALL Mission Veterans Memorial //////////////////////////////////////////////

H A A

150 during the injury-riddled season. Make no bones about it, if Villarreal can step up at that position he could be the biggest reason to get the Patriots to compete for a postseason berth.

Most prognosticators have Mission Veterans fighting for the best of those who won’t make the playoffs in the district - behind Edcouch-Elsa, Rio Grande City and Mission, who came down from 5A with realignment. Still, there are memories of that 10-2 season.

WR Isaac Guerrero (5-11, 175) will be a prime target after hauling in 426 yards in receptions and three touchdowns. WR Eric Hidrogo could also call some attention from secondaries.

Those guys in the trenches could be the X factor for the Patriots.

Junior Steve Farias (5-9, 265) and Armando Alvarado will have the responsibilities to protect Villarreal. Their gelling and Villarreal’s development could sneak up on

2012

August 30 Bro Rivera September 6 LJ Palmview 14 Zapata 28 Mercedes October 4 Valley View* 12 Ed-Elsa* 19 Roma* 26 Mission* November 5 RGC* 9 PSJA SW*

(Mission, Tx)-If you could wipe a year off your record books - kinda like how the NCAA ridiculously “takes away victories” from programs and pretended they never happened (does that means the other teams get those wins now?

Hmmmm), which one would you take away?

More than likely Mission Veterans Memorial and fourth-year head coach David Gilpin would take away last season.

The Patriots, co-district champions the year before with a breakthrough 10-2 record, were plagued by injuries and just couldn’t seem to get anything going en route to a 2-8 mark. That was clearly unexpected after getting a taste of success and winning big the year before.

In 2012, Santos Villarreal will now continue at quarterback after he took over the reins 2011 after then QB Adrian Morales went down. Villarreal threw for nearly 400 yards and rushed for another

District 32-4AAAA

mission patriots Veterans Memorial

1922 E. Griffin Parkway Suite C Mission, Texas 78572 956-581-6969 Fax: 956-581-8231

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

53

mission eagles (Mission, Tx)-Look down any list that Mission Head Coach Mario Pena has turned in or given to the media -- or listen to any interview -- and it’s the same.

Defense, defense, defense.

It’s like he’s trying to throw a wrench into the high-flying elite teams’ way of operating in District 32-4A. Just look at it. Edcouch-Elsa (ok, their defense dominated too), Rio Grande City (spread offense, go deep) and Mercedes (full cast of returning offensive stars) and the theme of Region 32-4A is offense, not defense. Mission’s gonna try to prove those theories wrong.

With seven defensive starters returning and a drop from Class 5A (where the Eagles went 6-14 over the past two years) and Mission probably is more optimistic than many would believe heading into the 2012 season.

The Eagles will have three

non-district games - all at home (La Joya Palmview, Brownsville Hanna and Corpus Christi’s Tuloso Midway) - to give them an idea where they stand.

The linebacking duo of Erick Flores (5-9, 190) and Alberto Roque (5-9, 205) will be the key cogs for Mission. The pair combined for nearly 200 tackles during the 2012. Other players to watch are Steven Cavazos (6-0, 195) and Andrik Tijerina (5-8, 200), will lead in the trenches while Nick Garza (5-8, 150), Ray Osorio (5-8, 155) and George Gonzalez (6-1, 165) will play in coverage in the secondary.

On offense, senior Juan Rios (6-2, 225) returns as the team’s signal caller after having started nine games last year. Randy De la Garza (5-8, 195) will be the featured back following a 500-yard campaign last year. Sophomore Robert Veliz (5-8, 145), and seniors Andy Solis (6-3, 185) and Victor Perez (5-11, 155) are also penciled in for Pena and the Ea-

Players to Watch:

LB Erik Flores, 5’9 160lbs Sr. LB Alberto Roque, 5’11 205lbs Sr. DB George Gonzalez 6’1 165lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 19/24 Starters Returning O/D: 7/7 Enrollment: 2,084 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008, & 2009.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

Advance to Class 4A Division I Area playoffs in 2009 before losing to Gregory-Portland 12-7

gles as wideouts.

Mission averaged just 17 points a game last year overall and only 14 within district. During their two seasons in Class 5A the Eagles combined for a 6-14 record, 2-12 within the district.

DidYOUknow?

August 31 LJ Palmview September 7 Bro Hanna 14 Tulso-Midway 28 Valley View* October 5 Ed-Elsa* 12 Roma* 19 RGC* 26 Mission Vets* November 1 PSJA SW* 8 Mercedes*

Former Dallas Cowboys coach, QB Tom Landry led the Mission Eagles to the 1941 Texas H.S. regional championships that went 12-0. No state playoff games were played at that time.

H H H A H A A H A H

Head coach Mario Pena 4th Season 2011 Overall 30-5A Record

Season 2-8 District 0-7

District 32-4AAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Mission Eagles

District 32-4A

Alberto Roque Mission High

Jose Serrato Mission High

Andrik Tijerina Mission High

Randy De La Garza Mission High

Victor Perez Mission High

Two Locations 2413 E. Expressway 83 #50 Mission, Texas 78572 956-583-5430 office 956-583-5431 fax

Embracing Families, Inspiring Lives.

Behavioral Health Family Dentisry Case Management Nutrition

54 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

712 Lindberg Ave. McAllen, Texas 78501 956-720-0684 office 956-467-1075 fax www.nhgrgv.com

*Discounts and their availability may vary by state and eligibility requirements. For more information, please see or call a State Farm agent.

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL 1101217.1

roma gladiators (Roma, Tx)-Rome wasn’t built in a day. Neither was Roma. But each year, through hard work and persistence - and a plan - the goal came closer and closer within reach. So it is with the head coach Max Habacker and his Roma Gladiators.

Roma is now a viable contender for making its first postseason playoff appearance in school history. The players can taste it, and Habacker can see it.

The coach, now in his sixth season, has methodically led the Gladiators to better and better positioning at season’s end. His first two seasons ended up 1-9, they were followed by a pair of 4-6 marks (but an improvement from 1-6 in the district to 3-5).

Last year, the Gladiators finished 5-4, 4-4 in district and just one win away from that elusive playoff appear-

ance. Actually, they had a better record as they finished tied with Mercedes for the final playoff spot. They lost the head-to-head matchup, however, and their 2011 playoff hopes. “We were so close last year with a 5-5 record - we went right down the middle, even in district,” Habacker said.

Senior Eric Ramirez will slide from his two-year starting wide receiver spot to quarterback and will have three-year starter Eduardo Pompo (6-0, 160 and Erick Ramirez (5-9, 155) as two speedy targets. Ovidio Hernandez is a key on the offensive line at right tackle. He also started as a sophomore and earned second-team all district last year. Sophomore Ruben Hinojosa (6-0, 305) and Jose Grimaldo, who also started as a sophomore and is a junior this year, will help anchor what should be a solid offensive line.

Defensively, the Gladiators will be led by a pair of inside linebackers with Robert Alaniz and

Players to Watch:

RB Robert Alaniz, 5’10 190lbs Sr. OL Oviedo Hernandez, 6’2 265lbs Sr. QB Eric Ramirez 5’8 165lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 11/16 Starters Returning O/D: 6/5 Enrollment: 1,815 State playoffs appearances since 2000: None.

Joe Hernandez. Two juniors - also starters as sophomores last year will short up the secondary with free safety Joe Flores and strong safety Orlando Solis. “We are winning at the bottom, with the middle schools and winning just keeps following,” Habacker said.

“The last three freshmen groups have been excellent,” says Habecker.

The Gladiators open district play Sept. 28 at Edcouch-Elsa and a much anticipated game against Mercedes will be played away again, but hopefully, the Gladiators would have clinched a playoff by then.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Laredo Martin September 7 Lar Johnson 14 Lar Cigarroa 28 Ed-Elsa* October 5 RGC* 12 Mission* 19 Mission Vets* 26 PSJA SW* November 2 Mercedes* 9 Valley View*

A H A A H H A H A H

Head coach Max Habacker 6th Season 2011 Overall Record Season 5-5 District 4-4

District 32-4AAAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Roma Gladiators

District 32-4A

Eric Ramirez Roma H.S.

Eduardo Pompa Roma H.S.

Joe Hernandez RB Roma H.S.

Robert Alaniz LB Roma H.S.

Oviedo Hernandez Roma H.S.

Roma ISD Stadium located west of Business 83 in Roma, Texas with seating of 4,500.

(HSSMIMages/Alec Amador

56 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

A

A H A H A H

Head coach Joe Solis 9th Season 2011 Overall Record

Season 10-2 District 7-1 Class 4A Div II Area Finals Lost to PL Calhoun 34-13

Players to Watch:

WR Noe Gonzalez, 6’0 180lbs Sr. RB Israel Loredo, 5’9 180lbs Jr. QB Eric Morales 6’0 160lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 25/27 Starters Returning O/D: 2/3 Enrollment: 1,487 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008,

2010, & 2011. Advanced to the State 4A Division II Regional playoffs in 2005 & 2006.

see some competition from junior Noe Gonzalez (6-0, 190). Gonzalez is considered one of the top offensive stars in the conference.

Only two defensive starters return for the Yellow Jackets. Leading the defense is senior Alvin Lofton (6-0, 285) at tackle. He will be joined along the line by senior Mario Vela (5-9, 215) and juniors Robert Trevino (5-9, 180) and Michael Garza (5-9, 240). Senior Brandon Villa (5-6, 175) and Jr. Rick Villarreal (5-11, 180).

Isaac Martinez Ed-Couch Elsa

Isaias Martinez Ed-Couch Elsa

Eric Morales Ed-Couch Elsa

Noe Gonzalez Ed-Couch Elsa

Israel Loredo Ed-Couch Elsa

Brandon Villa Ed-Couch Elsa

Rick Villarreal Ed-Couch Elsa

Michael Garza Ed-Couch Elsa

Robert Trevino Ed-Couch Elsa

Alvin Lorton Ed-Couch Elsa

WW.HIGHSCHOOLSPORTSMAGAZINE..NET

FOOTBALL Edcouch-Elsa Yellwjackets //////////////////////////////////////////////

H H A

Edcouch-Elsa shut out four teams, and allowed nine or fewer points in four other games. Overall the defense allowed just 10 points per game for the season.

The offense averaged 38 points per game too. “I’m real excited about this season because of our non-district schedule. We are playing three 5A teams that made the playoffs last year. We want to be challenged,” adds Solis.

There’s no reason to think those numbers won’t be as good - or better - than that this year. It looks like “La Maquina Amarillo” has returned to it’s elite production.

Offensively the Yellow Jackets return skilled position players that all produce big numbers. Running back Israel Loredo (5-9, 180), a junior, rushed for more than 1,100 yards and scored 15 touchdowns.

Classmate Diego Garcia (5-7, 165) will also get some touched in the backfield. Quarterback Eric Morales (6-0, 160) passed for more than 1,000 and rushed for more than 1,000 yards. He may

2012

August 31 Weslaco September 6 PSJA North 21 Lar Alexander 28 Roma* October 5 Mission* 12 Mission Vets* 19 PSJA SW* 26 Mercedes* November 2 Valley View* 9 RGC*

(Edcouch, Tx)-It seems like a distant memory. The year was 2009.

The Edcouch-Elsa Yellow Jackets what seemed like their 100th straight one-loss season. Again they had dominated the district in 2008, finishing with an 11-1 record. They had knocked off Tuloso-Midway in the first round of the playoffs in convincing fashion 59-22 before falling to Port Lavaca-Calhoun 48-28 in the next round. They had amassed a 44-4 record over a four-year stretch from 2005-2008. Then 2009 four wins… six losses.

Even the next year at 8-4, ended

by Calhoun once again in the second round of the playoffs, wasn’t a typical year - but it was better.

“We’ve been working real hard this off season in the weight room and outdoors in this heat,” says Edcouch-Elsa head football coach, Joe Solis.

And signs of pure domination clearly showed in 2011 after posting a 10-2 season and area playoff appearance.

District 32-4AAAA

ed-elsa yellowjackets District 32-4A

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

57

2012

Edcouch-Elsa Yellowjackets

State Playoffs Since 2000: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011

32-4AAAA Varsity Schedule A H H A A H A H A H

Good Luck This Season!

August 31 Weslaco www.eeisd.org Sept 6 PSJA North Sept 21 Laredo United Edcouch-Elsa High School Principal Sept 28 Roma* Rene Ramos Oct 5 Mission* Edcouch-Elsa ISD Superintendent Oct 12 Mission Veterans * Frank Perez Oct 19 PSJA Southwest* Oct 26 Mercedes* Head Football Coach Nov 2 Valley View* Mercedes Athletic Director Nov 9 Rio Grande City* Joe Solis **December 20-22, 2012 UIL State Championships (Site to be announced)

Advertisement paid by Edcouch-Elsa ISD.

P.O. Box 127 Edcouch, Texas 956-262-6000

Back on the

SIDELINES

By Henry Miller

HSSM Assistant Sports Editor

///////////////////////////////////////

Looking Back on

H.S. GameDays In awe of those Friday Night Lights, I remember my first Friday night under the lights as a budding young sports writer.

I was in the Ohio Valley and there were somewhere between 4-6,000 fans in the stands. I wrote a pretty good story for a

www.highschoolsportsmagazine.net 20-year-old kid facing his first opponents and attended press true deadline. Except that I forgot conferences to see if “Mr. Ohio” one thing - the receiver who was going to Ohio State, Michiended up making the winning gan or elsewhere. catch was a freshman.

Along the way I’ve been blessed And it was his first catch. to cover future NFLers including Guess I was a little awestruck by James Jett (WR, Raiders - and my surroundings and forgot that Olympian), Clayton Holmes eensy-weensy detail.

(Dallas Cowboys), Joey GalloIn the Rio Grande Valley, fansway (WR, Seahawks, Cowboys flock to stadiums Thursday, Friand others), Albert Haynesworth day and Saturday nights to watch (Redskins..others) and the great these players grind it out on the John Abraham (who went to the gridiron. It was a far cry from the same little high school in South 200 or so who would show up Carolina as former Pittsburgh on our bleachers in Upstate New Steelers’ great Levon Kirkland.

York for a Saturday afternoon I’ve covered state championships game (yes, Saturday afternoon in Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsyl- we’d even have snow somevania and South Carolina. I’ve times for our games) between even covered a handful of games the Westmoreland Bulldogs in Texas a decade ago - back (my school) and the Adirondack when La Joya was one school Mountaineers (or whatever they and thousands would fill the were called). stadium.

I’ve been fortunate to cover high Along the way I remember folschool football in the Ohio Vallowing the plight of one of the ley, West Virginia and Western most highly recruited football Pennsylvania (schools were players in the nation - Stan Marino, Montana and other stud Manning from Dillon, S.C. High quarterback have come from).

School. He was compared to I’ve watched Ohio teams like Emmitt Smith and had all the Moeller and Massillon thrash big boys looking to recruit him.

When I approached his coach Jackie Hayes to see how he was doing with grades and how he did on his SAT, Hayes looked at me and said “Henry, he doesn’t know how to spell SAT… does that answer your question?”

Unfortunately, in South Carolina, that happened way too often.

Back then, the option was the favorite weapon of choice. Rarely did quarterbacks throw more than a dozen times a game and the ones who did were just studs.

One team ran the Wing-T, which I still can’t figure out and nobody used the “spread.” Here in the Valley, the Wing-T is no longer (thank you coach Lucero at PSJA), The Maryland I is making its debut (thank you coach Muir at Santa Maria) and the spread has spread from one end of the Valley to another. There’s no doubt that the 2012 high school football season is going to be a past-paced and exciting one.

It’s great to be back on the sidelines...

Hopefully, I won’t get too awestruck again.

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(Located North from Stadium, Take 10th to Dove Street) HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

59

FOOTBALL PREVIEW

REPORTS PREDICTIONS REALIGNMENTS

2012

31-3A THEPREDICTIONS BY TDDAVE

1. Grulla H.S. 2. Kingsville King 3.

Raymondville 4. Zapata 5. Lyford PRESEASON OFFENSIVE MVP: QB Reymond Penablanca, 160LBS-Grulla H.S. PRESEASON DEFENSIVE MVP: DL Ralph Rubalcaba 6’3 260lbs-Raymondville H.S.

BY DAVID “TDDAVE” AMADOR HSSM SPORTS DIRECTOR

(La Grulla, Tx)-The Grulla Gators are beginning to make a name for themselves after just two seasons in the league.

Head coach Abel Gonzalez is enjoying the fact that his football program is maturing and executing his game plan on football Friday nights.

The Gators made their debut as 3A football team in 2010 and the following season the Gators turned heads and won seven games, including a 3-2 finish in District 32-3A. With the new realignments, the Gator program moved to District 31-3A and head coach Gonzalez was puzzled with the new realignments.

“It just doesn’t make sense. We will now travel to Kingsville, Raymondville, and Lyford,” says Gonzalez. “These will be long road games for our football teams and other sports.” Either way, the Gators will be favored to win the 31-3A title in this five-team district. Moving down from

60 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

Class 4A are the Kingsville King Brahmas from District 31-4A. The Brahmas finished 4-2 in district play and advanced to the 4A playoffs. Head coach Robert Wilcox will start quarterback, John Houston (6’2, 210lbs) who had more than 2,500 total yards last season. Surprisingly, the Raymondville Bearkats could make some noise too after going two rounds in the State 3A Division I playoffs. Second-year head coach Joe Gonzales will be pleased with his eight starters returning on both sides plus the 22 lettermen.

All three teams will be favored to make the playoffs this season but doun’t count out the Zapata Hawks and Lyford Bulldogs. Both teams finished 3-2 in district play, but key losses cost both programs playoff spots in 2011. Bulldog head coach Jaime Infante talks about being the smallest 3A school in the district with an enrollment of 461. “We are trying to find players,” says Infante. “We recruit all sports.”

GET FOOTBALL ACTION PHOTOS AT WW

District 31-3AAA

grulla gators District 31-3A

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

H

A H A H A

Head coach Abel Gonzalez III 2011 Overall Record Season 7-4 District 3-2

Class 3A Div I Bi-District Finals.

Lost to Raymondville 29-9.

Bryan Martinez La Grulla

Maickol Alanis La Grulla

Armando Villarreal J.R

Jose Garcia La Grulla

Nathan Salinas La Grulla

La Grulla

La Grulla

Agustin Soto La Grulla

DE Armando Villarreal, 5’11 215lbs, Sr TE Jose Garcia, 6’0 220lbs, Sr QB Reymund Penablanca 5’9 170lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 19/13 Starters Returning O/D: 7/6 Enrollment: 968 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2011 Senior Armando Villarreal (5-11, 200) and linebacker Maickal Alanis (5-7, 165) are leaders on the defensive side of the ball. Alanis is considered among the top defenders in the district.

The Grulla Gators open the season with La Villa at home Aug. 31. They have their district opener, also at home, against Raymondville. A matchup with preseason district favorite Kingsville King is slated for the season finale Nov. 9 at Kingsville.

Herberto Bazan La Grulla

Joe R. Sanchez Stadium is home for the Rio Grande City Grulla HS Gators.

WW.HIGHSCHOOLSPORTSMAGAZINE..NET

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

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Grulla Gators

Reymond Penablanca

Players to Watch:

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

A H A H

Hondo by just one point, were 6-2 overall at another point and finally ended a very emotional season with a 29-9 loss in the playoffs to Raymondville.

In October the team was devastated when their teammate remember, these kids have been together since the program’s inception -Adrian Pena died unexpectedly in October.

Now, almost a year later, the Gators can focus a little better on just one task - football.

Reymond Penablanca (5-9, 175) returns to the Gators with a year under his belt from the quarterback slot. The now junior passed and rushed for a combined 1,600 yards last year was responsible for 19 TDs. Herberto Bazan (5-6, 150) is listed in the backfield and Junior Nathan Salinas is penciled in at wide receiver. Penablanca will also have tight end Jose Garcia (6-0, 220) to look for at tight end.

2012

August 31 La Villa September 7 La Feria 14 PSJA SW 21 Rio Hondo 27 Port Isabel October 5 Hidalgo 12 Raymondville* 19 Lyford* November 2 Zapata* 9 HM King*

(La Grulla, Tx)-There’s an old adage that says if you want to learn how to become a millionaire, hang out with fellow millionaires.

Do what they do, act like they act.

After all, imitation is the greatest form of flattery, right.

That being said, there are a lot of team who may want to document what head coach Abel Gonzalez and the Grulla Gators have done the past two seasons.

With a debut at the varsity level in 2010, a 2-8 record wasn’t far from what most would predict or expect. “We expect to win here at Grulla H.S. and our coaches understand this philosophy too,” says Gonzalez. “Just because we are a new school does not mean we cannot win games in all sports.”

One year later, the Gators improved - a lot - like by five wins to finish with a 7-4 record and their first playoff appearance. They went on a 5-1 streak, fell to Rio

raymondville bearkats (Raymondville, Tx)-The Raymondville Bearkats are coming off their second straight appearance in the both season, both times advancing to the second round of the playoffs. Their goal is set on nothing less. In fact, those two trips have raised the bar.

With the offensive returners second-year head coach Joe Gonzalez has, that option could be attainable.

Leading the offensive assault will be running back Jesse Valladares, who returns after a nearly 1,200-yard season and may get some breaks from senior Romeo Rosales (5-9, 180). Quarterback Rolando Muniz (5-8, 150) will get the nod over Junior Spencer Akers (6-4, 170), who transferred from Lyford and will push for playing time.

The offensive line will be anchored by senior Ralph

Rubalcaba (6-3, 255), who will be joined by Alejandro Robeles (5-8, 225), junior Marcos Lugo (5-9, 215) and senior center Adrian Moncevaiz (5-9, 185).

The Bearkats return eight starters on both offense and defense.

They averaged about 25 points per game last season while giving up nearly 20. They tied for second in the district with a 3-2 record, one year after a perfect 5-0 season.

Defensively, the Bearkats Darren Zavala will continue to manhandle the defensive end slot. The 5-10, 175-pound senior amassed 15 sacks last year and is also listed at tight end.

Also penciled in along the defensive line include Brendan Garza and Juan Pena. Julio Rodriguez (5-5, 140), Leonard Ramirez (5-5, 170) and Christopher Trevino (5’8, 155) are part of a not large, but quick defensive linebacking contingent. Anthony Guerrero (6-

Players to Watch:

RB Jesse James, 5’8 165lbs Jr. TE Brendan Garza, 6’1 225lbs Sr. QB Spencer Akers, 6’4 175lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 20/22 Starters Returning O/D: 8/8 Enrollment: 609 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2002, 2006, 2007, 2010, & 2011.

0, 160) is considered the stopper in the Bearkats’ secondary at free safety. Raymondville opens its season at Hidalgo in non-district play on Aug. 31. The Bearkats’ home opener is the following week (Sept. 7) against Orange Grove. They open district play at Grulla on Oct. 12.

DidYOUknow?

Alex Leal, now the athletic director at Raymondville ended his career with the Bearkats as the winningest hispanic coach in Texas with 207 wins and 119 losses, four ties in 31 years.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Hidalgo September 7 Orange Grove 14 Port Isabel 21 Sinton 28 Rio Hondo October 5 La Feria 12 Grulla* 19 Zapata* 26 HM King* November 9 Lyford*

A H A A H H A H A H

Head coach Joe Gonzales 2011 Overall Record Season 7-5 District 3-2 Class 3A Div I Area Finals Lost to West Columbia 57-21

District 31-3AAA

2012

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

Raymondville Bearkats

District 31-3A

Edward Chavez Raymondville

Darren Zavala Raymondville

Anthony Guerrero Raymondville

Spencer Ackers Raymondville

Jesse James Raymondville

Julio Rodriguez Raymondville

Leonard Ramirez Raymondville

Brendan Garza Raymondville

Marcos Lugo Raymondville

Ralph Robelenba Raymondville

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

A

A H A H A

Head coach Jaime Infante 2011 Overall Record Season 6-5 District 3-2 Class 3A Div II Bi-District Lost to Rio Hondo 27-14

Jacob Esparza Lyford

James Cruz Lyford

Johnathon Nino Lyford

WR James Cruz, 5’7 160lbs Sr. RB Jacob Esparza, 5’5 165bs Sr. OL Lucas Salinas, 6’1 225lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 20/18 Starters Returning O/D: 3/8 Enrollment: 461 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, & 2011.

and sophomore Corder Castro at linebackers and Jonathan Nino (5-7, 155) and Gibby Rodriguez (5-10, 145) in the secondary. The Bulldogs had a solid offense last year, scoring an average of 37 points per game while giving up 29 per tilt.

Lyford opens its season in Brownsville at St. Joseph Academy. The Bulldogs open district play at home against the Grulla Gators (Oct. 9) and then face the district favorite King Brahmas on Nov. 2nd.

Lucas Salinas Lyford

Lyford Bulldogs

WW.HIGHSCHOOLSPORTSMAGAZINE..NET

Marty Rocha Lyford

Players to Watch:

FOOTBALL //////////////////////////////////////////////

H H H A

more than 450 students enrolled in the school, making them by far the smallest in the district (in comparison, three of the other four schools in the district have more than 900 students and the other - Raymondville - still has more than 600.

So saying Lyford does a lot with a little would be right on target.

Art Vasquez (6-0, 165) returns as the most dangerous receiver in the district. The senior hauled in more than 1,100 yards in receptions to go with 16 touchdowns.

Quarterback Scott Arnold (5-10, 160) will be responsible in getting the ball to his speedster’s hands.

He will also receiver wideout help from James Cruz (5-7, 160) In the backfield, head coach Jaime Infante has penciled in Jacob Esparza (5-5, 165) at running back.

The defense should also be strong for the Bulldogs with lineman A.B. Ramirez (6-0, 275) on the line, Marty Rocha (5-7, 170)

2012

August 31 St. Joe September 7 Port Isabel 14 Santa Rosa 21 Progreso 28 Orange Grove October 5 Rio Hondo 19 Grulla* 26 Zapata* November 2 HM King* 9 Raymondville*

(Lyford, Tx)-What’s that old saying? Two things in life are certain - death and taxes.

Ok, well this may not be quite as certain but you could almost add Lyford making it to the postseason as another one of those certains.

And that’s pretty impressive definitely much more impressive than taxes, and much more positive than that “other” certain.

The Bulldogs, yup, made it to the playoffs again last year. Oops, forgive us, returned after a oneyear hiatus. Prior to that they had reached the postseason for five straight years and overall they’ve been there eight of the last 10.

(Wouldn’t it be nice to only have to pay taxes every eight out of 10 years?)

And with the returning crew they have this year, there’s no reason to believe they won’t be back to their playoff ways. And this comes with just slightly

District 31-3AAA

lyford bulldogs District 31-3A

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63

$pending Big Bucks for Friday Night$ Stadium Improvements and Scoreboards PSJA Stadium Improvements $10.2 million

2012-New bleachers, Press Box, Seating Capacity 11,000.

Home to PSJA, PSJA Memorial, PSJA North, PSJA Southwest.

Boggus Stadium Improvements $5.6 million

2012-New Field Turf, New Press Box, Redesigned Complex with New Lights. Home to Harlingen Cardinals and Harlingen South Hawks.

Bennie Layton Sr. Memorial Stadium $2.8 million

2012-New scoreboard, New Track Surface, New Field Turf.

New Field House built a few years ago. Home to Edcouch-Elsa Yellowjackets. Seating capacity 6,800. New Fieldhouse built in 2010 with weightroom.

Bennie La Prade Stadium $4 million

New field turf, New Earl Scott Field House. New Scoreboard.

New track field. New Concessions stands. Seating capacity 6,500. Home to the Donna Redskins and Donna North HS Chiefs.

Bobby Lackey Stadium $11 Million

Since 2008, New Scoreboard, New Field Turf, Redesigned Home Side with New State-of-the-Art Press Box. Home to Weslaco Panthers and Weslaco East Wildcats.

Seating Capacity of 14,000.

Mercedes Tiger Stadium $200,000

New Scoreboard, Renovated the Field House. Possible stadium upgrades in the works. Seating capacity 4,500.

Joe R. Sanchez Stadium $750,000

New State-of-the-Art Scoreboard. Biggest in South Texas and home to Grulla Gators and Rio Grande City Rattlers.

Monte Alto Stadium $250,000

New Stadium with 200 Seating Capacity and lights for first-ever football program in Class 1A for Monte Alto Blue Devils.

McAllen Memorial Veterans Stadium $270,000

New Track Surface; Damaged Scoreboard to be replaced after season due to hail storm. New Stadium Lights-Upgrades.

Future multi-million dollar improvements. Seating capacity up to 15,000. Home to McAllen, McAllen Nikki Rowe, and McAllen Memorial.

Santa Maria H.S. Cougars Stadium $6,000

Painting Goal Posts, Scoreboard Improvements. New PA Sound System. Seating capacity of 500.

Sharyland H.S. Rattler Stadium $1.5 Million

New Scoreboard, New Track, Field Turf installed six years ago.

Seating capacity 6,500.

Great Fans in the RGV! McAllen Memorial Veterans Stadium played host to the Class 5A Division II Regional Football Champions on November 26, 2011. McAllen Memorial played San Antonio Reagan. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

64 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

GET FOOTBALL ACTION PHOTOS AT WW

$tadium & $coreboards! www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net

Friday Night Lights Just Got Bigger

BY DAVID A. AMADOR, HSSM SPORTS DIRECTOR

(McAllen, Texas)-Winning the coin flips in high school football playoff games means that teams get to play on their home field turf, just like the McAllen Memorial Mustangs did in the State 5A Division II Regional finals last November 26th. The Mustangs welcomed the 26-5A district champions, San Antonio Reagan Rattlers to the Rio Grande Valley. Reagan head football coach David Wetzel was amazed with the more than 12,000 fans that packed McAllen Memorial Veterans Stadium on that Saturday afternoon before blue skys. “This is fantastic and this is what football is all about. It’s about supporting your teams. This is great for communities,” said Wetzel.

The Reagan Rattlers fought to the end and defeated the 30-5A district champions 35-28 to advanced to the state quarterfinals, but for the Rio Grande Valley and its fans, it was just another packed season of pure entertainment for families and friends. This is football in the Rio Grande Valley and schools are spending big bucks to make sure that fans keep coming back.

(Cont’ on Page 66)

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www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net

Weslaco ISD started all the hype of renovations with a newly installed Daktronics Video scoreboard and they also redesigned its stadium with new pressboxes, stadium bleachers, and field turf a few years ago and upon completion, Bobby Lackey Stadium became a must-see-for-fans spectacle on football Friday nights. “That scoreboard really lights up the nights and fans love it,” says Weslaco Panther head football coach Tony Villarreal.

Today, many schools have followed with new renovations of aging stadiums like PSJA and Harlingen’s Boggus Stadium.

Both stadiums were built in the early 1960’s. Now both have received multi-million dollar face lifts.

In Pharr, the entire stadium will feature new stadium seating to accommodate 11,000 fans while Boggus Stadium received new field turf, new press box, new lights, and a face-lift. The

1961 State 2A Champions, Donna Redskins also added a field turf and new athletic complex with new lights. Edcouch-Elsa followed with a new field turf and scoreboard to off set the dry weather in South Texas. “We were spending more than $70,000 annually just to keep the grass from drying out on the football field,” says Edcouch-Elsa ISD athletic director, Joe Solis.

Advertisers have come to the aid with the cost of purchasing such huge scoreboards too. Rio Grande City CISD now boast the largest football scoreboard in South Texas built by Spectrum.

“It will pay for itself with advertising commercials and sponsorships,” says Rey Ramirez, RGC CISD athletic director.

Football Friday Nights in the Rio Grande Valley has become a family night out with thousands of fans pouring into stadiums to watch cheerleaders, band performances, eat great concession food, but above all, enjoy the game of football.

$tadiums and $coreboards! Top left are new PSJA Stadium, Harlingen CISD Boggus Stadium Press Box, and Leo Aguilar Memorial Stadium’s Scoreboard in Los Fresnos. Top Photo: Gigantic RGC CISD Scoreboard with Weslaco ISD Bobby Lackey scoreboard and Edcouch-Elsa ISD Benny Layton Sr scoreboard. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

66 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

1961 State 2A Champions

2012 Donna High School Varsity Football Team

State Playoff Appearances

1934, 1939, 1942, 1950, 1951, 1960, 1961*, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1967, 1970, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1990, 1991, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 2011 Donna ISD School Board Alfredo Lugo-President Ernesto Lugo-VP Nick Castillo-Secretary Rey Alegria-Board Member Efren Ceniceros-Board Member Angel Magallanes-Board Member Michael Flores, M.D.-Board Member

Donna ISD Administration Office 116 North 10th Street Donna, Texas 78537 956-464-1600 Advertisement paid for by Donna ISD

2012 Donna ISD Administration Superintendent of Schools Roberto F. Loredo Donna H.S. Principal Nancy Castillo Director of Athletics Rafael G. Leal

FOOTBALL PREVIEW

REPORTS PREDICTIONS REALIGNMENTS

PRESEASON OFFENSIVE MVP: QB Juan Puga, 6’0 180LBS-Rio Hondo H.S. PRESEASON DEFENSIVE MVP: DE Jacques Guillot, 6’1 235lbs-Port Isabel H.S.

2012

32-3A THEPREDICTIONS BY TDDAVE

1. Port Isabel 2. Rio Hondo 3. Hidalgo 4. La Feria 5. Progreso

BY DAVID “TDDAVE” AMADOR HSSM SPORTS DIRECTOR

(Port Isabel, Tx)-The Port Isabel Tarpons have made the state playoffs nine times since 2000 to go along with one State 3A semifinal appearance in 2002 plus two regional appearances in 2002 and 2004.

Not bad for a town which braces for hurricanes every season. Maybe that’s why they are called the “seawall defense”. Head coach Monty Stumbaugh led his Tarpons in 2004 to the Class 3A Division II regional finals against Halletsville with a defense that allowed just 156 points throughout the season. The Tarpons lost that game 10-0 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Tex. With 2012 season just around the corner, the Tarpon defense must find a way to reconstruct its “seawall defense” which allowed 257 points last season. Maybe the eight returning starters on defense will be much improved to win another District 32-3A title.

Rio Hondo, the defending champions will be ready to defend its title with veteran quarterback Juan Puga returning for his final season after passing for 2,500 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2011. The Bobcats defeated the Tarpons 35-21 last year. Both schools carry lots of tradition

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but that could all change now that Hidalgo Early College has dropped from 4A to 3A. The Pirates hired Scott Ford to turn this program around after having to forfeit all its games in 2011 for violating one U.I.L. rule after another. Ford coached at Los Fresnos before moving to Nacogdoches but after two seasons with a dismal record of 4-16, Ford made a decision to come back to South Texas and coach the Pirates under a multi-threeyear contract. Ford is also the athletic director for the Pirates.

That leaves La Feria and Progreso looking in and both squads will have to find a way to make the playoffs. La Feria head coach Oscar Salinas will be pleased with his seven returning starters on offense, including starting quarterback Jesse Ramon. At Progreso, the Red Ants will need to find a way to improve. Just improve every Friday night after going 0-10 under head coach Elvis Hernandez. The Red Ants have posted 9-31 record since 2008. The Red Ants return four starters on offense and defense. The must-see game in this district will come October 19th against Rio Hondo at Bill Pate Stadium in Hidalgo.

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Head coach Rocky James 5th Season 2011 Overall Record Season 8-4 District 4-1

Advanced to Class 3A Div II Area Finals. Lost to Sweeney 41-14.

Players to Watch:

RB Rolando Vega, 5’10 165lbs Sr. LB Adrian Zapata, 5’8 185lbs Sr. QB Juan Puga 6’0 185lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 20/22 Starters Returning O/D: 6/5 Enrollment: 622 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, & 2011. Advanced to 2008 Class 3A Div II Regional finals against Giddings 42-28.

eral will be linebacker Santos Carrizales, who will be joined by Adrian Zapata (58, 180) and Tristan Esacmilla (5-8, 183). Junior Estevan Frias (5-6, 140) will man the secondary while Phillip Adames and John Luna will be seen on the defensive front.

Rio Hondo has made the playoffs for seven straight seasons. “It will be an exciting season for the Bobcats in 2012,” says head coach Rocky James.

Tristan Escamilla Rio Hondo

Estevan Frias Rio Hondo

Hernan Guerrero Rio Hondo

Matthew Zuniga Rio Hondo

Joey Montalvo Rio Hondo

Rolando Vega Rio Hondo

Adrian Zapata Rio Hondo

Juan Gallegos Rio Hondo

John Reyes Rio Hondo

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Rio Hondo Bobcats

Isaiah Valladarez Rio Hondo

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19 touchdowns. He also rushed for more than 600 yards and will once again be the key cog on offense, where the Bobcats averaged 26 points per game en route to an 8-4 record and won seven of eight games during one stretch, including a 27-14 first-round playoff victory before falling to Sweeny.

He’s not the only weapon though. Rolando Vega (5-9, 165) returns after a 675-yard rushing campaign with four touchdowns.

He’ll be joined in the backfield by Hernan Guerrero (5-6, 144). Vega will also have a slew of receivers to target, including Isaiah Balladares (5-10, 155), Joey Montalvo (5-8, 146) and Matthew Zuniga (5-6, 160).

The key to the season could be the offensive line, which will be anchored by sophomore center John Reyes (5-10, 295) and senior guard Juan Gallegos (5-6, 252).

Defensively, the Bobcats gave up an average of 17 points per game. Their defensive field gen-

2012

August 31 Santa Rosa September 6 LJ Juarez-Lin 14 Sinton 21 Grulla 28 Raymondville October 5 Lyford 12 La Feria* 19 Hidalgo* November 2 Port Isabel* 9 Progreso*

(Rio Hondo, Tx)-A lot of teams would look at Rio Hondo’s “gone due to graduation” list and breathe a deep sigh of relief. Their first thought would be “phew, we don’t have to worry as much about the Bobcats this year,” even though they’ll throw all the cliches about every game is the toughest game and all that good stuff. They’ll even go as far as to say “in that program they don’t rebuild, they just reload.”

Oh yeah, that’s not so much a cliche when talking about the Bobcats. It seems to be more a reality.

The Bobcats, despite a large senior class moving on, still return six offensive and five defensive starters. They also have the league’s top passer and rusher returning. Welcome to Bobcat country.

Juan Puga (6-0, 180) returns as a third-year starting quarterback for the defending district champions. All he did last year was throw for nearly 2,000 yards and

District 32-3AAA

rio hondo bobcats District 32-3A

port isabel tarpons (Port Isabel, Tx)-In the past 11 seasons, the Port Isabel Tarpons have made the postseason. They’ve won four district titles, most recently in 2010.

Monty Stumbaugh enters his 12th season as the Port Isabel head coach and it’s obvious he has a well-oiled, efficient program running.

“This will be a year I’m looking forward too,” says Stumbaugh.

And that will more than likely continue throughout 2012. The Tarpons, once again a favorite to bring home a district title, return 14 starters from last year’s 6-5 team. Port Isabel should be among the top defensive teams in the district too.

Leading that defense will be Jacques Guillot, a 6-foot, 230-pound junior who was more than just an imposing figure last year at defen-

sive end. He amassed 80 tackles and eight sacks as a sophomore.

Much will be expected from Guillot, considered one of the best defensive player in the district, and fellow lineman - also considered a top defender - Miguel Ramirez (6-2, 210). Ramirez also collected 85 tackles and a team-leading 10 sacks.

All the players listed on the Tarpons preseason roster were penciled in as two-way players.

Highlighting that is Luis Aguilera, a 5-10, 160-pound senior who will double in the secondary as well as at wide receiver.

Others possibly joining him in what should be a tough pass-coverage group include Zach Reeves (6-1, 175) and Ryan Vasquez (56, 135). Prowling in the middle of that defense will be Jorge Mondragon (5-9, 190). He could be joined out there by Esteban Montelongo (6-1, 200) and Danny Medina (5-11, 190).

While the defense looks fairly

Players to Watch:

WR Zac Reeves, 6’1 180lbs Sr. TE John Bodden, 6’0 195lbs Sr. DE Jacques Guillot, 6’0 230lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 20/13 Starters Returning O/D: 6/8 Enrollment: 617 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2010, & 2011. Made State 3A Division II Semifinal appearance in 2003, losing to Marlin 41-10.

staunch, the offense shouldn’t be any slouch. Junior speedster Isaiah Martinez (5-4, 155) returns for an offense that scored around 26 points per game. Running back Juan Aguilera (5-9, 200), a junior, rushed for 650 yards last year and will be one of the featured backs in the offensive attack. Also sharing carries may be Jacob Losoya, Mondragon and Danny Medina (5-11, 190). Andrew Holland (57, 150) Reeves and Vasquez are all penciled in as possible receivers. while John Bodden (6-, 195) is listed at tight end.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Bro Veterans September 7 Lyford 14 Raymondville 21 St. Joe 27 Grulla October 5 Zapata 12 Progreso* 19 La Feria* 26 Hidalgo* November 2 Rio Hondo*

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Head coach Monte Stumbaugh 2011 Overall Record

Season 11-2 District 7-2

Lost to Orange Grove in Class 3A Div II Bi-District playoffs 28-14

District 32-3AAA

2012

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Port Isabel Tarpons

District 32-3A

Jacques Guillot Port Isabel

Danny Medina Port Isabel

Luis Aguilera Port Isabel

Isaiah Martinez Port Isabel

Zach Reeves Port Isabel

Juan Aguilera Port Isabel

Jorge Mondragon Port Isabel

Cristian Nunez Port Isabel

John Bodden Port Isabel

Ryan “Ochenta” Vasquez

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Port Isabel

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District 32-3AAA

progreso red ants District 32-3A

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Head coach Elvis Hernandez 2011 Overall Record

Season 0-10 District 0-5

Omar Vela Progreso

Robert Gonzalez Progreso

Usvaldo Rincon Progreso

Brandon Mercado Progreso

Returning Lettermen R/L: 12/20 Starters Returning O/D: 4/4 Enrollment: 482 State playoffs appearances since 2000: None. also offers an early college program. “Our players pick up college hours while in school and I’m very proud of this because I know they will continue their education after high school,” says Hernandez.

Can the Red Ants sting their opponents in 2012? A few years ago, the Red Ants defeated Mission in a nondistrict upset. Teams will have to be prepared to make sure this does not happen to them once district play comes around.

Gilbert Trevino Progreso

Alfredo Ruiz Progreso

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WR Brandon Mercado, 6’0 170lbs Sr. DE Ismael Valenzuela, 5’11 190lbs Jr. FS Robert Gonzalez 6’2 165lbs Jr.

Jesus Candanoza Progreso

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Progreso Red Ants

Jose Luis Munoz Progreso

Players to Watch:

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Red Ants to improve upon their 5.4 points per game last year.

Ismael Valenzuela is penciled in defensively along the line for Progreso and Robert Gonzalez is slotted to roam the free safety position. The Red Ant defense allowed more than 40 points per game last year.

Progreso opens with back-toback home tilts against Valley View on Aug. 31 and Brownsville’s St. Joseph’s Academy on Sept. 7. The Red Ants open District 32-3A play on the road against preseason district favorite Port Isabel. “I’m always excited every season. Football excites me and watching these players give their 100% every practice and on football Friday nights makes coaching worth it,” says Elvis Hernandez, head coach.

This community located just ten miles south on FM 1015 off the expressway from Weslaco prides itself with education and getting students to college. Progreso ISD

2012

August 31 Valley View September 7 St. Joe 14 MMA 21 Lyford October 5 La Villa 12 Port Isabel* 19 La Feria* November 2 Hidalgo* 5 Rio Hondo*

(Progreso, Tx)-The Progreso Red Ants have had some difficult football years. A pair of 0-10 seasons in 2011 and 2005 are sandwiched around five years where they combined for a 16-34 record, making it 16-54 since 2005.

That’s the bad news. There is some good news too.

One is the fact that it’s a new season. An inordinate amount of injuries last year didn’t do anything positive for the Progreso except maybe give the Red Ants some younger players with experience.

There’s more good news and that comes in the form of sophomore running back Sammy Tafolla, who rushed for more than 600 yards as a freshman. Omar Vela (5-8, 155) and Jose Luis Munoz (5-7, 148) may spell him in the backfield. Gilbert Trevino returns at quarterback and with Brandon Mercado (6-0, 170), and Alfredo Ruiz (5-10, 170) at the wideout slots. They’ll all be crucial for the

hidalgo pirates (Hidalgo, Tx)-For the Hidalgo Early College High School football team, it’s time to get back to football.

For Scott Ford, it’s time to get back on the sidelines in the Rio Grande Valley.

The marriage between Ford - a former head coach at Los Fresno - and Hidalgo, which talked more about UIL rules and infractions than football last year, could be as close to perfect as possible.

Ford coached at Los Fresnos and earned a 65-19 record, 57-13 in the regular season. His name started to get tossed around statewide and he left for Nacogdoches High School. There, he didn’t find the same success over the course of two seasons, compiling just a 4-16 mark with the Dragons.

Hidalgo was looking for a coach who could build a program that has been knocking

on doors, but rarely breaking any down. With Ford, however, they have a top-notch successful head coach who brings knowledge of the game, the rules and and exciting spread offense with him.

And along with that big-name coach there’s a big-name hopeful slated to carry that spread offense.

Freshman quarterback Shea Patterson has an amazing amount of expectations placed on him. Some of those charged with protecting the freshman will be linemen Frankie Pedraza (6-2, 280), Erick Valdez (6-2, 276), Luis Castillo (6-2, 215) and Matthew Dillard (6-5, 205).

Patterson will look to targets Daniel Dougherty (5-10, 195) in the slot along with receivers Hugo Farias (5-11, 158), Silvestre Gutierrez (6-0, 185) and Andres Garza (6-3, 197) to keep linebackers and secondaries on their toes.

The Hidalgo offense averaged just 16 point per game and scored 10 or fewer points in four contests

Players to Watch:

OL Erick Valdez Jr, 6’2 276lbs Jr. DE Matthew Dillard, 6’5 220lbs Jr. OL Frankie Perez, 6’2 280lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 18/16 Starters Returning O/D: 8/5 Enrollment: 984 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2005 & 2007.

- all losses.

Defensively, the Pirates will look to Jesus Castillo (6-2, 215) to shore up the defensive front.

Hidalgo returns five starting seniors from last year’s 3-7 team.

Joseph Marquez (6-0, 198) and Dougherty will be in the middle and defensive backs Oscar Ruiz (5-8, 160) and Chris Anderson (5-10, 175) will be among those in the secondary. “ I’m excite to be back in the Rio Grande Valley.

Now it’s time to play football,” adds Ford. “The players have committed themselves and this season will be different.”

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Raymondville September 7 Mercedes 14 Valley View 21 HM King 28 Santa Maria October 5 Grulla 19 Rio Hondo* 26 Port Isabel* November 2 Progreso* 9 La Feria* Head coach Scott Ford

H A A A H H H A H A

1st Year

2011 Overall Record

Season 0-10 District 0-8 Forfeited all games in 32-4A

District 32-3AAA

2012

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Hidalgo Early College

Early College

Hugo Frias Hidalgo

Benjamin Arjona Hidalgo

Daniel Dougherty Hidalgo

Joseph Marquez Hidalgo

Oscar Ruiz Hidalgo

Erick Valdez Hidalgo

Matthew Dillard Hidalgo

Frankie Pedraza Hidalgo

Jesus Castillo Hidalgo

Andres Garza Hidalgo

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Head coach Oscar Salinas 2nd year 2011 Overall Record Season 7-3 District 2-3

Players to Watch:

WR Aaron Gonzales, 5’9 155lbs Sr. RB Chris Milligan, 5’10 175lbs Sr. DB Lolo Alejandre, 5’9 150lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 18/18 Starters Returning O/D: 7/5 Enrollment: 958 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, & 2008.

Advanced to the State 3A Division I Quarterfinals in 2008 losing to Cuero 55-13 at the Alamdome.

La Feria’s six-game winning streak to open the season included victories over bigger schools like Mercedes and Brownsville Porter. They went through a three game skid where two of the losses were by a touchdown or less (22-17 vs. Rio Hondo; 35-28 vs. Zapata). La Feria opens its 2012 campaign on the road at San Diego on Aug. 31 before its home opener against Grulla on Sept. 7. The Lions begin district play on the road Oct. 12 at Rio Hondo.

Armando Garza La Feria

Eric Cuervo La Feria

Aaron Gonzales La Feria

Michael Olivarez La Feria

Chris Milligan La Feria

Lolo Alejandre La Feria

Jeremy Tamez La Feria

Jose Barboza La Feria

Jesus Martinez La Feria

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La Feria Lions

Juan Garcia La Feria

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lowing Cuervo to get in several snaps. Running back Abel Rangel will be the featured back. He will get relief from Chris Milligan (510, 170) and Armando Garza (55, 165).

The offensive line will be anchored by Jesus Martinez (5-11, 240) and center Jeremy Tamez (5-9, 210). Martinez will also see time on the defense line and be joined by Joe Barbosa (6-0, 200).

The La Feria defense allowed 23 points per game. They have five starters returning.

“Hopefully, injuries will not plague this team but that’s football and having to play six nondistrict games before the actual district race begins,” says Oscar Salinas.

Garcia will double and is one of the better coverage men in District 32-3A, which also includes Hidalgo, Port Isabel, Progreso and Rio Hondo. He will be joined in the secondary by defensive back Lolo Alejandre (5-9, 150) and Gilbert Perez.

2012

August 31 San Diego September 7 Grulla 14 Mercedes 21 Santa Rosa 28 Monterrey October 5 Raymondville 12 Rio Hondo* 19 Port Isabel* 26 Progreso* November 9 Hidalgo*

(La Feria, Tx)-The La Feria Lions surely lived up to their names as the season began last year. They literally roared into the 2011 season, starting with a 6-0 record.

Injuries and close losses, however and suddenly the mighty Lion roar has softened.

Still, with all the adversity and commotion, La Feria finished the season at 7-3 -- they weren’t kings of the district jungle, but they stayed in the hunt and there’s no indication this year that they won’t compete for a district title and first postseason appearance since the 2008 season.

The Lions return seven players on offense for a team that could score and score often, averaging 38 points per game.

Jesse Ramon (6-0, 160) and Eric Cuervo (6-1, 170) are penciled in at the quarterback position and Cuervo will see time at the wideout slot as well, joining Michael Olivarez (5-9, 140), Juan Garcia.

Ramon was one of a few key injured casualties last season, al-

lions

District 32-3AAA

la feria District 32-3A

FOOTBALL PREVIEW

REPORTS PREDICTIONS REALIGNMENTS

PRESEASON OFFENSIVE MVP: RB Luis Lopez, 5’9 200lbs-San Diego H.S. PRESEASON DEFENSIVE MVP: SS Joe Mariscal, 5’10 160lbs-Santa Rosa H.S.

2012

16-2A THEPREDICTIONS BY TDDAVE

1. SAN DIEGO 2. SANTA ROSA 3. ODEM 4. BISHOP 5. MATHIS 6. ARANSAS PASS 7. FALFURRIAS

Division I

BY DAVID “TDDAVE” AMADOR HSSM SPORTS DIRECTOR

(Santa Rosa, Tx)-Imagine having to travel 153 miles round trip for a football game on a Friday night? (cue up music: Willie Nelson’s On The Road Again). That’s the average number of miles Santa Rosa will have to travel in the newly aligned District 16-2A. And that includes two games where the round trips are 40 miles and 30 miles. So, you can probably figure out the rest. Santa Rosa also treks to Falfurrias (170 miles round trip), Odem (252 miles round trip) and Mathis (282 miles round trip).

At least if the Warriors make the playoffs, long road trips won’t be anything. But they’ve got some tough games along the way. The Aransas Pass Panthers and Mathis Pirates have joined the district, being sent down from Class 3A to 2A. The Pirates are coming off a 7-3 record.

Defending district champs San Diego will again compete for the another district title. The Vaqueros return running back Luis Lopez who amassed more than 2,000 yards rushing and 26 touchdowns. He also led the team in tackles and was the kicker . The Vaqueros rushed for more than 4,000 yards last season.

Another contender will be the Odem Owls, who finished 6-6 overall but ran two playoff rounds deep. They have eight returning starters on offense and seven on defense and probably have the district’s top line-

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backer with Zach Candela.

Falfurrias has the top returning quarterback in Lorenzo Vela (1,100 yards, 8 TDs) and receiver with Gilbert Alegria Jr (345 yards, 3 Tds) and have 1,300-yard rusher Marcus Cortez back. With a tough defense, the Jersey could make some noise. Rounding out the district are the Bishop Badgers, coming off an 0-10 record and 1-19 the past two seasons. They have 17 starters returning.

Must-see-games will match Santa Rosa traveling to Rio Hondo (75 miles round trip) on August 31st and then the Warriors will travel again, this time to Odem (252 miles round trip) to meet the Owls in their district opener on September 28th.

Aransas Pass could surprise many teams from District 16-2A Division I after finishing their season at 0-5 in District 30-3A, which also included Mathis (7-3). New head coach Gary Davenport takes over as the Panther’s new leader. Players to watch for the Panthers will be QB Erik Johnson (923 yards rushing) and William Butler (6’2, 205, 600 yards rushing). The Panthers have the size and speed to run away from the challenges that 30-3A gave them for many seasons. The Panthers allowed 274 points scored on defense as compared to the Vaqueros who held opposing offenses to 169 total points with three shutouts.

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Head coach Josh Gonzalez 2011 Overall Record Season 6-4 District 3-2

DidYOUknow?

The Warriors lost to Salado in the State 2A Division I Quarterfinals in 2007.

Joe Mariscal Santa Rosa

Marc Hernandez Santa Rosa

QB Joe Mariscal 5’10 165lbs Sr. MLB Marc Hernandez 6’3, 240lbs Sr TE Caleb Kemp 6’4 205lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 19/11 Starters Returning O/D: 6/9 Enrollment: 339 State playoff appearances since 2000: 2002, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010,

in track and clearly fits into the faster paced offense.

The offensive line will be anchored by second-team all-district center A.J. Castaneda (5-7, 240) and Marcos Contreras (5-4, 205). Defensively, Marc Hernandez (6-3, 240) will be the field general from the middle linebacker spot. Miguel Villarreal (5-7, 240) and Caleb Kemp (6-4, 205) return on the defensive front.

The Warriors allowed 240 points scored on its defense with key district losses to Odem and San Diego to miss the playoffs in 2011.

Marcos Contreras Santa Rosa

Caleb Kemp Santa Rosa

Stadiums Warrior Stadium

Seating Capacity: 1,200 Built in 2003 Located on East Hwy 107

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Santa Rosa Warriors

Rene Ledesma Santa Rosa

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tive impact, going from morning to evening practices.

The newly realigned District 16-2A welcomed two more 3A schools being dropped down in size with Mathis and Aransas Pass. The previous realignment brought two more 3A schools dropped to 2A in San Diego and Falfurrias. Add all the changes to the Warriors and you may as well include long, long (did we mention long?) bus rides, including Mathis this year.

Senior Joe Mariscal (5-10, 175) will start at quarterback for the new-look offense. He’ll have some help from tailback Adrian Canales (5-11, 170), who will play tailback and will back Mariscal.

“These kids are versatile, make good decisions and are threats to run with the ball,” Gonzalez said.

“Joe isn’t one dimension and he will be able to get the ball upfield whether it’s passing or running.

He’s going to be a big threat.

Isaiah Morgan will be a prime target at wideout. He won the district 100- and 200-meter dash in

2012

August 31 Rio Hondo September 7 La Villa 14 Lyford 21 La Feria 28 Odem* October 5 AransasPass* 12 Falfurrias* 19 San Diego* 26 Mathis* November 5 Bishop*

(Santa Rosa, Tx)-You have to play with what’s dealt to you on the high school level. And Santa Rosa has been dealt a different one this year. That’s ok though, according to sixth-year head coach Josh Gonzalez.

“We’re not as big as we have been in the past - we’ve had some big boys in the past, but we do have some quality skill position players,” Gonzalez said. “We’re gonna do a little more spread stuff. The good thing is that we will still throw in plays from the wide stack we used to run and all we have to do is say it and these kids know what to do.”

The Warriors finished second in the district last year with a 6-4 record but still missed the playoffs.

They were the odd-team out after a three-way tie for second led to points differentials between the three teams. Suddenly the Warriors were bumped from the playoffs.

Gonzalez also made some changes in the practice schedule this year and said it’s had a posi-

District 16-2A Division I

santa rosa warriors

District 16-2A Division I

FOOTBALL PREVIEW

REPORTS PREDICTIONS REALIGNMENTS

PRESEASON OFFENSIVE MVP: QB Robert Serna, 6’2 180lbs-La Villa H.S. PRESEASON DEFENSIVE MVP: LB Ivan Gonzalez, 5’10 225lbs-Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco

2012

16-1A THEPREDICTIONS BY TDDAVE

1. BEN BOLT 2. LA VILLA 3. SANTA MARIA 4. MONTE ALTO

DIVISION I

BY DAVID “TDDAVE” AMADOR HSSM SPORTS DIRECTOR (Santa Rosa, Texas)-Anytime you lose to a state champion In fact, all the rest are expecting good years, a run for the in the playoffs, this factor should motivate your program playoffs and - with a perfectly executed game plan - a disfor the next season. La Villa did so, when it played Mason trict title. Monte Alto, in its first varsity season, is envisionin the area playoffs in Class 1A Division II, losing 64- ing a 7-2 or 7-3 season, La Villa expects to continue where 20. Mason went on to defeat Samford inthe championship it left off (of course, where it left off BEFORE the game game played at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. against Mason) and Santa Maria is expecting big things When you talk to coaches in District 16-2A, they’re goal from a couple big defensive players and an exciting, motiis to beat Santa Maria or Monte Alto or a rebuilding (or re- vation, first year coach in Frank Muir (and yes, they really loading?) La Villa. Then, if they can be undefeated when are running out of the Maryland I Offense.) they play Ben Bolt…. who knows? Did we mention that If any of them, however, can knock the Badgers off the Ivan Gonzalez was the 2011 Class 1A All-State Defensive throne - and each team is planning on it - then it’s gonna player of the year from the Ben Bolt Badgers? be a shootout to the finish in District 16-2A. And don’t be Don’t get us wrong, nobody is rolling over and handing totally surprised if Monte Alto (debut football season) or the district to to the Badgers, who lost in the same round Santa Maria (return to football after two seasons) sneak as La Villa did in the playoffs last year - except LaVilla their way into the postseason. The top two teams from this lost to eventual state champion Mason. four-team district will advance to the playoffs.

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1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 5-7 District 2-1

DidYOUknow?

The La Villa Cardinals 7-on-7 Summer football team won the 2011 National 7-on-7 title.

Noe “Porky” Castillo La Villa

Daniel Ibarra La Villa

La Villa

QB Robert Serna 6’2 175lbs Jr. WR Adrian Trevino 6’0, 175lbs Jr OL Joseph Garza 5’11 250lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen R/L: 11/6 Starters Returning O/D: 5/4 Enrollment: 159 State playoffs appearances since 2000: 2011, 2009, 2008, 2007,

2006, 2005, & 2002.

be behind three returning linebackers with junior Arturo Garza in the middle and seniors Chevy Guerrero and Daniel Ibarra on the outsides.

La Villa opens its season against Grulla Gators (Class 3A), Santa Rosa Warriors (2A) and Progreso Red Ants (3A). “We want to have a better season than last year. We don’t want to start slow. IF we can play with those guys to start the season, we’ll have a good season. “We always go first or second-round deep in the playoffs. But we want to keep going.” The Cardinals lost to Grulla 21-14.

Zeferino Guzuero La Villa

Rolando Garza La Villa

A winning tradition continues...

UIL State Football Playoff Appearances: 2011, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, & 2002.

Independent School District 500 E. 9th Street La Villa, Texas 78562

956-262-4755

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LA VILLA CARDINALS

Robert Serna La Villa

Players to Watch:

FOOTBALL ////////////////////////////////////////////// PREVIEW

Head coach Daniel Perez

A

nator for the Cardinals. “We have a saying on our shirts this year ‘Working Hard - All The Time.’ If you work hard all the time good things will happen to you.”

The Cardinals return five on offense and six on defense. Leading the offensive charge with by the Serna triplets - Robert Serna at quarterback, Roman Serna at center and Raymond Serna at guard. Raymond Serna has been starting for La Villa since being a freshman. The Cardinals also have Raymond Garza and Charlie Garza returning along the offensive line.

“We’re still running the spread but we’re goon put a little bit of the pro spreads in there,” Perez said. “We put some new plays in there and some plays we really like. The kids already know what’s going on.”

Defensively La Villa will line up in a 4-3 but Perez said it could easily change into a 6-1 if needed.

Raymond Serna will play the “toothpick” position and is a hard hitter, according to Perez. He will

2012

August 31 RGC Grulla September 7 Santa Rosa 14 St. Joseph 21 MMA 28 Bruni October 5 Progreso 12 Oratory 19 Ben Bolt* 26 Monte Alto* November 5 Santa Maria*

(La Villa, Tx)-Can new head football coach, Daniel Perez continue the playoff traditions the La Villa Cardinals have experienced since 2002, where they have missed the playoffs just three times (2003, 2004, 2010) and just last season, lost to the eventual State 1A Division I Champions, Mason in the second round of the playoffs.

Now, after a 2-6 start last year, the La Villa Cardinals needed a spark at the end to just make the playoffs and turn the year into something positive.

District wins against Kenedy (28-12) and Charlotte (63-26) propelled La Villa into the playoffs where they defeated Yorktown 35-18 before falling to eventual state champion Mason 64-20.

Take away that Mason score and first-year head coach Danny Perez is hoping to find the same magic La Villa ended the season with.

“The kids just started playing a lot better and got all fired up.

They were coming together. It was a good run,” said Perez, who previously was defensive coordi-

District 16-1A Division I

la villa cardinals District 16-1A Division I

monte alto bluedevils (Monte Alto)-How great is the excitement in Monte Alto? As talk of Monte Alto Blue Devil’s debut into high school football gets louder and louder, one lady approached someone from administration and wanted to get season tickets. “I’ve been an Edcouch-Elsa fan and season-ticket holder for years,” she said. “But I live here. This is my community.

I’m releasing those tickets.

I want Blue Devil tickets.”

“Shoot,” said Monte Alto head coach Roy Garza after sharing that story. “I wish I would’ve been there. I would’ve bought the tickets for her!” That pretty much sums it up.

The Blue Devils will join Santa Maria, La Villa and Ben Bolt in District 16-1A Division I. And despite being a first-year varsity program, Garza isn’t shy about what the goals are.

“We’re shooting to make

the playoffs,” he said. “I mean, it’s only a four-team district and two teams get to go. Our goal is to beat Santa Maria and La Villa before playing Ben Bolt. The bad thing is, that game is at their place.”

“We’re hoping to be over .500 for our first season. Maybe 7-2 or 7-3.

That would be a great achievement,” adds Garza.

The first-year program surely doesn’t plan to look first year with their offense. The Blue Devils will run out of multiple sets, going from in motion to a full backfield to even the spread at times.

“It’s hard if you don’t have the linemen to stay in one power formation,” Garza said. “Depending on what the other team has, we can run on them. If not, we’ll line up in shotgun and go with that.”

Projected starting quarterback Frankie Cavazos (5-18, 150) injured his knee in preseason and was awaiting an MRI prior to the first scrimmage of the season. Replacing him will be Mario Gonzalez (5-9, 160), who was slated

Players to Watch:

DE Luis Diaz 6’2 260lbs Sr. WR Ricky Trejo 6’0, 175lbs Sr QB Frankie Cavazos 5’9 155lbs Jr.

Returning Lettermen: 0 Starters Returning: 0 Enrollment: 191 Playoffs: None to start at receiver. Garza said each quarterback brings something different to the formation and both can lineup at receiver.

Another player to watch will be Jorge Guajardo (5-10, 158) and Chris Jimenez, who will be the prime wideout targets and Luis Diaz (6-2, 260) will come out of the tight end slot. Diaz will also be the placekicker and Garza said he kicks 40-yard field goals regularly. The key will be getting the offense in position.

Garza said about 32 kids came out for the season and he expects a few more still to come out. He’s hoping to get enough for a JV squad too. The Blue Devils open against Anthenaem at home.

HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES August 31 Anthenaem September 7 Bruni 14 Agua Dulce 21 London Sch 28 Benavides October 5 MMA 12 Lasara 19 SantaMaria* 26 La Villa* November 9 Ben Bolt*

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Head coach Rogelio Garza 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 0-0 District 0-0

DidYOUknow?

The tallest building or landmark in Monte Alto is the water tower with a Blue Devil mascot.

District 16-1A Division I

2012

PREVIEW

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Monte Alto Blue Devils

District 16-1A Division I

Frankie Cavazos Monte Alto

Mario Gonzalez Monte Alto

Jerry Cavazos Monte Alto

Luis Diaz Monte Alto

Jose Rodriguez Monte Alto

Stadiums Monte Alto H.S. Stadium Seating Capacity: 200 Built in 2012 Located N. FM1015 Rd

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HSSM GAMEDAY SCHEDULES

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Head coach Frank Muir 1st Year

2011 Overall Record Season 0-0 District 0-0

DidYOUknow?

Due to budget cuts in 2010, the Santa Maria Cougars football team cancelled its season.

Isaac Ortiz Santa Maria

Margarito Garcia Santa Maria

Adam Perez Santa Maria

DL Alan Gonzalez 6’2 250lbs Jr. WR Jose Carreon 5’11, 140lbs Jr FB Magarito Garcia 5’4 185lbs Sr.

Returning Lettermen: 0/0 Starters Returning: 0 Off 0 Def Enrollment: 151 State Playoff Appearances Since 2000: 2008 defense that can easily be turned into a 4-2-5.

Senior Margarito Garcia (54, 185) will be the defensive field general at middle linebacker, making sure his colleagues are lined up correctly and understanding the calls.

He will be joined by fellow senior linebacker Adam Perez. Frutoso Villarreal will also play a key role at safety, including a 300-pound nose tackle, Joe Torres. “He is going to cause a lot of havoc in there,” Muir said.

Muir was an assistant at Brownsville Porter before coming to Santa Maria.

Alan Gonzalez Santa Maria

Stadiums

Santa Maria Cougar Stadium Seating Capacity: 300 Located on East on Military Hwy

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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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Santa Maria Cougars

David Ortiz Santa Maria

Players to Watch:

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gonna accept anything less than making the playoffs,” Muir said.

“We have talent. We’re gonna put the best team on the field every single week. In fact, expectations are probably higher than they’ve ever been.”

Players to watch will be Isaac Ortiz (5-8, 143) who was heading into middle school when Santa Maria’s football team disbanded.

Now a freshman, he will lead the Cougars return at quarterback.

The Cougars will run out of a Maryland I - something not too many teams in the Valley have used or seen in recent years.

“There’s a lot of spread teams down here. If we pass we’re gonna use play action. But we’re sitting in an inverted wishbone,” says Muir.

Ortiz will have a stable of backs to handoff too, including his older brother, sophomore David Ortiz (5-9, 150), Adam Perez (5-8, 145) and juniors Isai Garcia and Leonel Lugo.

Muir said defensively the team will mix it up, running a 4-3

2012 PREVIEW

August 31 MMA September 7 Anthenaem 14 London Sch 21 San Diego 28 Hidalgo October 5 Lasara 19 Monte Alto* November 2 Ben Bolt* 9 La Villa*

(Santa Maria, Texas)-Are you ready for some football? Santa Maria High School sure is. Actually, the entire town seems more than ready.

After a two-year hiatus from football following the district’s decision to suspend the sport due to finances, the Cougars are back - and first-year head coach Frank Muir says there’s more than just a buzz in the air. “Everybody’s just thrilled,” said Muir, who coached with the JV team last year. “Santa Maria is a small town and everybody knows everybody and there’s a lot of excitement. We’ve had a lot of support from administration, pretty much giving us everything we need. We’re painting the goalposts and doing renovations,” he adds.

And just because the football team is returning to the varsity level, don’t think that the goals are just middle-of-the road for the Cougars. Just talking to the energetic Muir will eliminate those thoughts from anyone’s mind.

“Expectations are high - we’re not

District 16-1A Division I

santa maria cougars District 16-1A Division I

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