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HSSM’s Football

October 26-November 27, 2012

Estefan

Top 10 Polls

Castillo

Sharyland WR

1. Sharyland 2. Weslaco East 3. Harl South 4. Donna 5. Los Fresnos 6. Edinburg North 7. Mission 8. McAllen 9. Mercedes 10. Port Isabel

Big Bite!

Sharyland Rattlers No.1 in Polls

>Football Teams Still Alive For Playoff Spots...

>OneOnOne with Scott Ford

Hidalgo Early College HS Dion Padilla

Donna QB

>District Standings 30-5A 31-5A 32-5A 32-4A 31-3A 32-3A 16-2A 16-1A-Div 1

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HSSM 2012

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On the Cover

Paula Dodge McAllen High School

Founded in 1997

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

Volleyball Head Coach

Publisher & General Manager

David A. Amador

tddave@highschoolsportsmagazine.net

Sports Assistant Editor

Henry Miller

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Sports Photo Editor

Alec Amador

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Photographer

Thomas Amador

A Salute to Breast Cancer Awareness Month! The Weslaco HS Varsity Cheerleaders showed their support with pink pom-poms. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

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Team by Team District Standings Who’s No.1

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It’s All About the Game with Tddave

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Armed and Ready...

GameDay Ballboys.

It’s a tough job.

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Hungry? Football Fans Crave GameDay Foods

Cover Photo: WR Estefan Castillo of Sharyland keeps Rattlers in hunt for 30-5A title.

(HSSM IMages/Alec Amador)

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Volleyball Highlights It’s Playoff Time!

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It’s All About

the Game

By David A. Amador HSSM Sports Director

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Trick or Treats for Yellowjackets Fans?

Halloween. What a spooky day for sports in the Rio Grande Valley it will become if the UIL joins in with its own bags of tricks or treats. Many football fans will remember this day in 2012.

The Edcouch-Elsa Yellowjackets fans will learn their fate regarding the U.I.L. infractions brought fourth by a former coaching staff member, former head football coach, and now a current employee

from the same district he brought allegations against.

This does not make any sense whatsoever. Think about it...

Why would a former assistant football coach from Edcouch-Elsa would want to tarnish his former program?

Many Yellowjacket fans have mentioned that he wants the head coaching job. So, if he wants the job, why not just apply for it and just maybe, he will be consider for the job in the next decade or so.

This community depends on the economic dollars which are generated from football games in Edcouch, Texas. This is what brings this town together as one family.

Oh, the allegations? This so-called 8-hour practice rule was violated by the Yellowjacket Football team. This means that each week any U.I.L. extracurricular activity is allowed to practice no more than eight hours total. No more, no mas.

This means that all band members, one-act play

teams, soccer, speech and drama, volleyball, and the rest of all sports.

So, how is it monitored?

The time. Who keeps watch on the clocks? Do we need to leave it up to the former La Villa head football coach? Think about this...if the clock surpasses just one minute past the eight hour rule set by the University Interscholastic League, your team is automatically in violation. So how can the UIL monitor this?

Does the U.I.L. need clock watchers like this former football coach to disrupt a program anytime he feels like bringing fourth his so-call proof of videos that he would not even share copies with the media?

This former coach also accused the Yellowjacket coaching staff of violating the 7-on-7 Summer Football Program. Yet, his former La Villa football team went to nationals for 7-on-7 in Florida just a few years ago. I guess he had nothing to do with this program?

The UIL State Executive Committee will meet on

October 31st in Austin with Edcouch-Elsa ISD, who is appealing the 32-4A District Executive Committee’s ruling of “guilty” and the punishment was to forfeit the entire football season.

This eight hour rule needs to be looked at and after this hearing on October 31st, you can bet that the UIL will take a closer look on how to monitor this eight-hour rule. Stay tuned...this could get a bit spookier.

Trick or Treat!

The Edcouch-Elsa football team will learn their fate regarding the forfeiture of their season on October 31st.

(HSSMImages)

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

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1. Sharyland (7-0, 5-0)

6. Edinburg North (6-1, 4-1)

2.Weslaco East (5-2, 4-1)

7. Mission HS (7-0, 4-0)

Win out, Win Another 30-5A title. It’s that simple.

Could these Wildcats Win their first 31-5A title?

3. Harlingen So (6-1, 5-0)

Cougars could create three way tie for title on Nov 5th

The District 32-4A title game in Mercedes Nov 8th?

8. McAllen H.S. (6-1, 4-1)

Harlingen Nov 2 and Los Fresnos Nov. 9 & then title? Bulldogs last won a co-district title in 2006.

Garrett

Thomas McAllen HS Bulldog WR

4. Donna HS (6-1, 4-1)

9. Mercedes (6-1, 4-0)

Start thinking playoffs.

Again, the Tigers will host Mission Nov. 8th...

5. Los Fresnos (6-1, 5-0)

10. Port Isabel (6-2, 2-0)

District 32-5A Showdown on Nov 5th vs Hawks!

No Hurricanes. Just Tarpon Football.

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District 30-5A

As of October 26, 2012

//Team Standings

1. Sharyland 7-0, 5-0 2. Donna 6-1, 4-1 3. Edinburg North 6-1, 4-1 4. Economedes 5-2, 3-2 5. LJ Juarez-Lincoln 4-4, 3-3 6. LJ Palmview 3-4, 2-3 7. Edinburg 2-6, 2-4 8. La Joya 2-5, 1-4 9. Edinburg Vela 0-8, 0-5 District 31-5A

1. McAllen 6-1, 4-1 2. Weslaco East 5-2, 4-1 3. PSJA North 5-3, 4-2 4. McAllen Memorial 4-3, 3-2 Weslaco 3-4, 3-2 6. McAllen Rowe 4-4, 3-3 7. San Benito 4-4, 2-4 8. PSJA Memorial 3-4, 1-4 9. PSJA 1-6, 1-5 District 32-5A

TrevorSpeights McAllen Memorial Freshman RB

District 16-1A Division I

UIL State Football Playoff Appearances: 2011, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, & 2002.

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1. Los Fresnos 6-1, 5-0 1. Harlingen South 6-1, 5-0 2. Harlingen 4-3, 4-1 4. Brownsville Vets 6-2, 5-2 5. Brownsville Hanna 2-5, 2-3 6. Brownsville Lopez 3-4, 2-4 6. Brownsville Rivera 2-6, 2-4 9. Brownsville Pace 0-8, 0-5 9. Brownsville Porter 0-7, 0-5

District 32-4A

1. Mission 7-0, 5-0 1. Mercedes 6-1, 4-0 3. Edcouch-Elsa 5-2, 3-1 4. Mission Veterans 4-3, 2-2 5. Valley View 4-3, 1-3 5. Roma 4-3, 1-3 5. Rio Grande City 1-6, 1-3 8. PSJA Southwest 2-5, 0-4

State Playoffs Begin Nov. 15th!

District 32-3A 1. Port Isabel 6-2, 2-0 2. Rio Hondo 5-3, 1-1 2. La Feria 2-5, 1-1 4. Hidalgo 4-3, 0-1 4. Progreso 2-4, 0-1

District 31-3A 1. Kingsville HS 3-4, 1-0 2. Raymondville 4-4, 2-1 3. Lyford 3-3, 1-1 4. Grulla 2-6, 0-2 4. Zapata 2-6, 0-2

District 16-2A Division I 1. San Diego 7-0, 3-0 1. Aransas Pass 5-2, 3-0 3. Mathis 4-3, 2-1 4. Falfurrias 6-2, 3-2 5. Odem 4-4, 2-2 6. Bishop 3-5, 2-2 7. Santa Rosa 1-6, 1-3 District 16-1A Div 1 1. La Villa 7-1, 2-0 2. Santa Maria 4-3, 1-0 3. Monte Alto 4-4, 0-1 4. Ben Bolt 5-2, 0-1

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ncessions at Football Games

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By Henry Miller, HSSM Asst. Sports Director (Weslaco, Tx) – If you ever go to Augustine “Fats” Betancourt’s home, you’re not going to be fed turkey legs – no matter how good his are. Betancourt, along with two other volunteers, load up a huge grill for every Weslaco home football game and throw 285 turkey legs for a afternoon of slow cooking. The end result?

A beautiful – and big – bronzed turkey leg that the meat is so tender it just needs a little help with a couple tugs to drop off the bone. “They’ve been coming out pretty good,” Betancourt said. “And by 7 p.m. we’re done, packed up and we go watch the game.” “Smoking them this long, the meat just peels off the bone and it makes it appealing to the people so they don’t have to gnaw on it,” Betancourt added. “We just heat them to where the bone gets hot and the mesquite is the key.”

Friday Night Footballs is an experience in itself – but that’s something that’s seen all across the country. Friday Night Football Food is a whole different world in the Rio Grande Valley.

Not only are there turkey legs, but there’s your normal food fare like hot dogs, nachos and pizza. There’s also some specialty foods – there are tacos and corn in a cup. You can find empanadas and funnel cakes (known in other regions as elephant ears or fried dough) and churros or this delicious cup of shredded carrots, celery and jicama with lime juice and trechas sold at the Valley View home games.

A Thanksgiving! Weslaco Panther Band Corps parent Augustin “Fats” Bentacourt proudly shows off his smoked Turkey legs during a football game. (HSSMImages/David A. Amador) HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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//////////Hungry Fans Football Gameday Concessions

Cont’ from Page 11 under the grill lid with the smoke wafting around brings a demand when it’s time to sell them. They sold out during halftime at the Weslaco vs. Weslaco East game – the first time those two teams had ever played one another.

Betancourt said he’s had people approach the grillers – now, remember there are 285 gargantuan turkey legs sitting side by side on the grill – and stun them with a simple question: “Can I get a fajita taco?”

“It’s therapy for me anytime I grill,” Betancourt said. “I really love to smoke a couple slabs of pork ribs – just throw them in the smoker and let them go for 8 or 9 hours. “But I won’t ever grill a turkey leg at home.

Oh, and another thing he won’t do is end up on “Grillmasters” or any other TV reality cooking show.“No way,” Betancourt laughed. “This is strictly amateur hour.”

Mmm Good! Football Fans enjoy all-time favorites, Nachos with Cheese and jalepenos while kids (bottom right photo) enjoy Hot Cheetos with Cheese.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

There’s no doubt that as good as the game, or the band or the cheerleaders are, the food (and drinks – like agua fresca or limonada) is right there at the top. It’s truly a delectable smorgasbord. Other fan favorites are Hot Cheetos with Cheese. Yuk! Like most high school food concessions, the Weslaco turkey leg volunteers raise money for the Panther Corps band boosters and will use some of the proceeds to buy extra cases of water – among other things – for the band while they are practicing in the heat or competing in things like the Pigskin Preview.

But as for those turkey legs, they add up to 450 pounds of slow-cooking. Betancourt said there’s no magic – just charcoal, mesquite wood to give the meat a red tint and about two hours

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2012

Edcouch-Elsa Yellowjackets

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

32-4AAAA Varsity Schedule W L W W L W W

Determined to Win a State 4A Title!

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* Edcouch-Elsa Athletic Director Nov 9 Rio Grande City* Joe Solis **December 20-22, 2012 UIL State Championships Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, Texas

Advertisement paid by Edcouch-Elsa ISD.

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

Back on the

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SIDELINES

By Henry Miller

HSSM Assistant Sports Editor

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

Friday Night Football

Still Life Lasting...

It was one High School Football Friday Night in a little town in South Carolina.

Dillon (S.C.) was ranked No. 3 in the nation (No. 4 in the state – still haven’t figured out how that happened) and Hartsville (S.C.) was No. 8 in the state.

Eight thousand people were expected – no, wait 10,000.... or was it 15,000? As the game got closer, the supposed size of the crowd did as well. People were crammed in every seat and space available. This little town was transformed by high school football.

High school football is all Dillon has had. A small town known as a shortcut to Myrtle Beach off I-95 (and its big South of the Border tourist trap). On football nights, however, the town came together. Even today, 17-years later, Dillon remains a powerhouse - and the crowds fill the stadium. The Wildcats have compiled a 96-16 record (not counting 8-1 this year) since 2004 – an average of 12 wins per season - and have won two state titles.

I struggle all the time with putting these athletes on pedestals while academics take a backseat. I watched time and again – especially in South Carolina – great football players suddenly realize they have nowhere to go when high school ends.

Once a star, now a stat. Stan Manning at Dillon was the top-ranked running back in the nation but couldn’t go anywhere because of grades – and he probably shouldn’t have lasted his high school ca-

reer for the same reason. To be fair to Dillon, Dillon’s LaShay Page is the starting guard for the University of South Carolina Basketball team. I realize that in some weird sort of way, these athletes are giving back – putting the town on the pedestal again.

The recent Donna at Sharyland game reinforced that belief. A crowd of 9,000 rocked Rattler Stadium. The unquestionable No. 1 vs. No. 2 teams in the Valley – both 6-0 – in a rematch of last year.

This game provided championship tastes to thousands of people. It brought families and friends together – even on rival sides – you can be sure it hauled in thousands of dinner or late-night snack dollars and money for so many other programs (band, cheerleading....).

Sure, one team went home as winners while the other didn’t. But in terms of the all-encompassing picture of what is high school football there were many more Ws than there were Ls. And, in that same weird way mentioned above, even those “Ls” are winners.

Donna, Sharyland – thanks for providing all you did on that one High School Football Friday Night in the Rio Grande Valley.

Push’em back, Push’em back, waaaay back.

Ruben Cardenas, Agent 603 N. Texas Blvd Weslaco, TX 78596 Bus: 956-968-4554 ruben.cardenas.b3yp@statefarm.com

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Football Fans Know Them As GameDay BallBoys...

BY HENRY MILLER HSSM Assistant Sports Director

(McAllen, Tx)-There’s a little more than just pure randomness in being selected as a ball boy during Friday night high school football games. Sure, they have to keep the balls dry and keep up with the game. But in many cases, these ball boys are getting a preview of things to come when they’ll be dressing for football Friday nights of their own. “Ball boys have to be ready for anything that comes their way during the games,” said PSJA Memorial head football coach, Gus Cavazos. “Danny Salinas has been part of our ballboy program and he will someday lead this Wolverine football team at quarterback. Danny just loves football.” Being a ball boy is demanding and the University Interscholastic League and TASO (Texas Association of Sports Officials)does not set guidelines or rules as to who can be a ball boy. But, TASO referee Joe Camacho says that it’s a big task. “A ball boy’s biggest duty is to have replacement balls dry and be ready whenever a referee calls for a new ball during the game.

Sometimes we replace the ball every other play – especially in the beginning of the season because of all the sweat and how wet the footballs get.” he said. “As it goes colder we may go a whole series before replacing it.”

There are plenty of risks involved with being a ball boy and it can get dangerous too. “Our ball boys understand the importance of being on the sidelines. They are responsible for the flow of the game.

The sidelines are fast paced but we train our ball boys in sub-varsity games before they hit the big time,” says Michael Uribe, head football coach of Mercedes. As for Brandon Adame (9 years old, TYFA football player), he has been around football all his life with his Dad, Roger Adame (Mercedes defenssive coach). “Brandon is part

16

of our football team and he travels with the team too. It’s amazing to see these young all boys grown up and become part of our program,” added Uribe. Those are the same words McAllen Memorial head football coach Bill Littleton shares too. “Since I have coached here at Memorial, I have had three brothers become ball boys for the Mustangs,” adds Littleton. Ben (20), and Seth (17) have played Mustang football, and now, Ross (12) Gonzalez is the ball boy this season with hopes of following his brothers foot steps too . “Another player on our squad, Garrett Sharp (6’3, 230lbs) also was a ball boy,” says Littleton. “It’s a tough job but these kids get it done. They have to go through an orientation before we allow them on the field to better understand the game,”added Littleton. Sharyland High School ball boy, O.J. Garcia loves being a ball boy too. “I just love being a Rattler and hopefully one

eady!

www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net

PSJA Memorial’s future QB Danny Salinas is strapped and ready for football Friday nights.Left photo, Ross Gonzalez is in his third year as an experienced ball boy for McAllen Memorial. Next to Ross, Brandon Adame of Mercedes and Sharyland’s O.J. Garcia both understand the importance of being a ball boy.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

day I will play football for this team,” says the spunky seventh grader from Sharyland North Junior High.

O.J. is on the football team and plays left guard.

“Ball boys get yelled at when they are not paying attention to the game. It’s not just about being on the sidelines. These ball boys love the game and that’s what makes it easier for them to stay focused,” adds Sharyland H.S. head football coach, Ron Adame.

More than 10,000 ball boys partcipate in football games every Friday night making sure they keep the ball stays dry and ready for next play without getting hit by the action.

17

www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net

Sharyland, Donna Headed to State Football Playoffs; Other Teams Alive HSSM Football Report

(Mission, Texas)-It’s the time of year when suddenly things are starting to make sense.... well, kinda. In some cases, it’s more like the time of year similar to those last weeks of the NFL where there are about 28,468 scenarios to decide the final two playoff teams. The high school football state playoffs are around the corner and teams have two or three district games remaining to make their push for either a title, playoff position or just squeaking in. And while things can still change,

here’s what we here at HSSM see as the countdown to Cowboys Stadium begins.

DISTRICT 30-5A As the season progressed there were a few questions. Could Edinburg North maybe knock off the trains known as Sharyland and Donna?

Could a La Joya team make the playoffs? Would Economedes come

Sharyland Knocks Off Donna in Showdown!

The Rattlers will be looking to win its third 30-5A title in four years. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net back from an 0-10 record last year? The answers were no way, nope and heck yeah. It’s a real simple who’s in and who’s not for this district: Who’s In: District 30-5A 1 – Sharyland: Their thumping of Donna makes this well deserved.

2 – Donna: After already beating Edinburg North this spot is a lock 3 – Edinburg North: They still have a game against Sharyland, if EN wins it’s a three-way tie atop 4 – Economedes: the Jaguars went from winless to the playoffs.

What a story.

District 31-5A This one’s a pain. It seems that every week there’s someone new in position to take over first or be in a tie for first or something in relation to first. In a span of three weeks Weslaco took over first by itself, then shared it with three other teams and now is battling for the final playoff spot. Statistically speaking, the only team out of the playoff picture is PSJA. We’ll go ahead and say that San Benito and PSJA Memorial are out as well – but if they win out.... they’re actually still in the picture – but barely.

Here’s what we’re figuring: 1 – Weslaco East: The former Class 4A squad is the only team

Continue on Page 24

McHi Bulldogs Win Title?

The McAllen Bulldogs are tied for first place in District 31-5A. Pictured are Bulldog defensive players Miguel Ruiz (99) and Garrett Thomas (3) tackling De’Andre Henry of PSJA. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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Playing for Playoff Spot.

Weslaco Panthers and Nikki Rowe Warriors of District 315A hope to make the playoffs.

Pictured are Panthers LB Norman Cordova and Rowe Tony Garcia. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

20 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

Advertisement paid by Weslaco ISD.

www.WISD.us

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

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

Head coach: Armando CuellarHIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

21

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Resendez Presents

Academic Scholarships to Athletes Players of the Week Raul Resendez, agent

Arnold Gomez of Edinburg North takes down LJ Juarez-Lincoln RB Martin Diaz. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

(Edinburg, Tx)-Five athletes have each been awarded $250 academic scholarships in the latest installment of High School Sports Magazine’s Academic Player of the Week presented by Raul Resendez, State Farm agent from Edinburg, Texas. “This is just amazing,” says Resendez. “These athletes are incredible with their game day performances and what makes me prouder is knowing that these athletes are taking college courses while in high school.

I’m proud to award these scholarships,” added Resendez.

Those athletes include Sharyland’s Tres Barrera, Edcouch-Elsa’s Gabby Capello, Edinburg North’s Vanessa Salazar, Valley View’s Alexis Guajardo and Weslaco’s Tommy Chavez.

Barrera threw for 277 yards and four touchdowns in a Sharyland win over Edinburg. For the season he has thrown for 1,789 yards and 23 touchdowns while completing 75 percent of his passes. Tres also has a 3.7 GPA, putting him in the top 10 percent of his class. Tres was recognized before the Donna at Sharyland matchup, pitting two undefeated District 305A titans against one another. According to sources, Barrera could opt to accept a Major League Baseball contract. He is considered one of the top 24 baseball prospects in the country. The University of Texas has offered Barrera a full scholarship for baseball.

Capello, a four-year letterman and setter/hitter on the Edcouch-Elsa girls volleyball team, helped lead her team to a No. 10 ranking in the State 4A Volleyball polls. Behind Capello, the

Top Academic Athletes! Top photo is volleyball player Vanessa Salazar from Edinburg North H.S. with Edinburg CISD Athletic Director, Joe Filoteo Jr with staff members and Raul Resendez, State Farm agent presenting award at Cats Stadium in Edinburg.

At Bobby Lackey Stadium, middle photo are Weslaco H.S. linebacker, Tommy Chavez with Resendez, (l-r) David Amador, HSSM Publisher; athletic director, Oscar Riojas; superintendent, Dr. Ruben Alejandro; principal, Isidro Nieto; Mr. & Mrs. Chavez; and athletic coordinator, Eddie Serna.

At Rattler Stadium, bottom photo is Sharyland football quarterback, Tres Barrera and with State Farm agent, Resendez, Also pictured are (l-r) Dr. Noe Oliveira, school board president; Cynthia Wilson, principal; David Amador, publisher of HSSM; Ashley Resendez, with head coach Ron Adame. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

22 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net Lady Yellow Jackets defeated No. 17 Mission Guajardo is also a top scholar, ranking in the among the top students in the Weslaco ClassVeterans in a thrilling five-set match that took top-10 percent of his class. HSSM is also room. He would like to pursue his football 2 ½ hours to finish. The win also propelled teamming up with the Texas Lions Camps and career in college. “Tommy is a great athlete Edcouch-Elsa into a tie for first with Mission Vision Service Plan to help Guarjardo with and student,” says head coach Tony VillarVeterans. Capello had 18 kills and 33 assists in obtaining eyewear to better help his vision. real. Congratulations to all the HSSM Raul the victory over the Lady Patriots. Capello is Weslaco’s Chavez was recognized for his Resendez-State Farm Academic Players also ranked in the top 10 percent of her class achievements before the Weslaco vs. McAllen of the Week. A total of $1,750 dollars have at Edcouch-Elsa. Capello was recognized pri- Memorial Game. Chavez is the leading line- been awarded to seven academic players and or to the Edcouch-Elsa vs. Mission Veterans backer for the Panthers and is an all-district awards will be presented at each school’s football game Friday night at Benny Layton performer. Against the has a 3.4 GPA and is awards presentations in May 2013.

Sr. Memorial Stadium.

Edinburg North’s Salazar was named player of the week after an amazing performance against Edinburg where she had 52 digs in their four set win in District 30-5A. Later that same day, Salazar was named the Texas Volleyball Coaches Association Player of the Week and Maxpreps National Player of the Week as well. She was named the 2011 Libero of the Year in Volleyball in her 32-4A district.

She also ranks in the Top 20 percent of her class with a 3.5 GPA. Guajardo, running back for the Valley View Tigers, was a huge reason the Tigers started the season at 3-0 after winning just four games total in the previous six years. He was recognized before Valley View’s game against Mission. Guajardo’s rushing stats for the season are 818 yards, third in District 32-4A but he’s had 40 and 90 carries, respectively, fewer than the two rushers in front of him. His 11.7 rushes per carry, however, has him leading the district in that category.

Top Athletes and Scholars! Top photo are (l-r) Valley View H.S. principal, Mike Jones with Eloy Garza of Raul-Resendez State Farm; David A. Amador, HSSM Publisher; Alexis Guajardo, Valley View running back; athletic coordinator, Christian Navarro; and assistant superintendent of schools, Rolando Ramirez. Bottom photo is Gabby Capello, volleyball player of the state-ranked No.10 Edcouch-Elsa Yellowjackets volleyball team with Eloy Garza, State Farm representative; (l-r) David Amador, HSSM Publisher; Joe Solis, athletic director; Frances Rocha, assistant superintendent; Rene Ramos, principal; Carlos Longoria, Raul Resendez-State Farm; Mrs. Capello; and Edcouch-Elsa Superintendent of Schools, Frank Perez. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

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www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net to win four straight district games, and the Wildcats hold the tiebreaker with McHi. Their biggest game left is Oct. 26 against McAllen Memorial.

2 – McHi: The Bulldogs have the toughest schedule remaining with games still against Weslaco and Memorial – the two teams as of press time fighting for their playoff lives 3 – PSJA North: The Raiders have the easiest schedule remaining. If they win both games and end up somehow in a tie with either McHi or Weslaco East (or both for that matter the Raiders can still clinch the district since they beat both of those first-place teams (see, we told you it was an NFL-like scenario) 4 – McAllen Memorial, Weslaco, Nikki Rowe: If we base this on strength of schedule, Weslaco has the easiest route. Memorial still has to play both first-place teams in McHi and Weslaco East and Rowe as Weslaco East and PSJA North.

Of course, in this district maybe Nikki Rowe will come out as the district winners – that’s how crazy it’s been and will continue to be.

District 32-5A Ok, back to normalcy. This one’s the easiest of all as far as the playoffs go – it’s gonna be Los Fresnos, Harlingen South, Brownsville Veterans and Harlingen. The tough part is in which order. Here’s what we forecast: 1 – Winner of the Harlingen South vs. Los Fresnos game. This happens Nov. 11 and should be for the district title unless Harlingen somehow finds a way to get into a three-way tie, 2 – Loser of the above mentioned game 3 – Harlingen – if they beat Harlingen South and South beats Los Fresnos we have that three-way tie.

4 – Brownsville Veterans

Roland Zuniga Brownsville Veterans

George Quintanilla Weslaco East H.S.

District 32-4A As a fan, this has been a pretty neat district to keep up with (except for that whole Edcouch-Elsa possible forfeiting their season thing – but we’re gonna predict with the idea that E-E is still eligible) 1 – Mission. The Eagles will be 9-0 overall and 7-0 in district when they face Mercedes on Nov. 8 – making the Mercedes vs. Edcouch-Elsa game critical for those three teams.

2 – Mercedes. The Tigers are unbeaten but still have Edcouch and Mission on their schedule so it ain’t gonna be easy 3 – Edcouch-Elsa. With Eric Morales back at QB and Noe Gonzalez back to dominating at WR/RB the Yellow Jackets could be one of the best No. 3 seeds anywhere.

4 – This is anyone’s ballgame. Mission Veterans is in the driver’s seat but Roma and Valley View are also in the thick of things.

District 31-3A District play has just begun in District 32-3A but there’s enough info to get a good idea.

1 – King. Sure, they’re just 1-0 at presstime but it was convincing and they were preseason favorites 2 – Raymondville. With a 2-0 start, they could even challenge King for the title 3 – It’s just too hard to predict right now District 32-3A Same goes for this district with just 1 or 2 games under each team’s belts. But that means there’s only one or two games left.

1 – Port Isabel. The Tarpons are looking like they are going to just roll through this district. Big game left is against La Feria in the season finale.

2 – La Feria. Basically the same story as above.the final spot.

Sean Montemayor Harlingen South H.S.

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State Executive Ruling on October 31st

Edcouch-Elsa, 32-4A Teams

Waiting On UIL Ruling (Edcouch, Tx)-Whatever takes place on October 31st could affect the District 32-4A standings in football. Teams are waiting to see what the outcome will be and a ruling against the Edcouch-Elsa football program could create playoff scrambles. Those teams who have lost to the Yellowjackets will get a win and the race for playoff spots begins. However, Edcouch-Elsa will make its appeal regarding the UIL violations in Austin to the State Executive Committee on Wednesday, Oct. 31, according to Ed Stidham, Compliance Officer for the University Interscholastic League.

“That was the first available time we could meet,” Stidham told HSSM. “There are some other things too, but Edcouch-Elsa will be first and foremost.”

Edcouch-Elsa will be appealing the decisions handed down by the District 32-4A committee, which included the Yellow Jackets having to forfeit their entire 2012 season. Edcouch-Elsa head football coach Joe Solis said he’s glad to know that the drama will finally be coming to a close.

“We did not violate any UIL Rules within our football program,” says Solis.

The punishment came down following allegations that the Edcouch-Elsa football program had violated the UIL 8-hour practice rule. The committee also handed

down a public reprimand and put the program on a two-year probation.

Mike Uribe, director of the District 32-4A Executive Committee, said he will probably be in attendance for the appeals meeting too.

Edcouch-Elsa ISD District of-

“We did not violate any UIL Rules within our football program...”

Joe Solis, Edcouch-Elsa H.S. Athletic Director head football coach ficials said they found no wrong doing by the program and they would appeal the decision to the UIL Executive Committee. The results of that appeal will be given Oct. 31 in Austin. “In general, a decision can be appealed for consideration and the state meets on an as-needed basis,” said Dr. Mark Cousins, athletics director for the UIL. The District 32-4A Executive Committee met for more than two hours before coming back with the initial 5-1 decision.

Season Over? The Edcouch-Elsa football program will learn of their fate on October 31st regarding the allegations brought fourth by a former coach. The UIL State Executive Committee will make it’s final decision on whether to forfeit the entire season originally set by the 32-4A Executive Committee. Pictured is WR Noe Gonzalez of Ed-Elsa . (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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HSSM Football Report-32-4A

Mission Eagles, Mercedes Meet November 8th (Mission, Tx) – It’s a perfect flight so far. Mission is 7-0 and, with just three games left – are looking to go into the playoffs at 10-0. Left on the Eagles schedule are Mission Veterans, PSJA Southwest and a possible District 32-4A district championship matchup with Mercedes. Both teams are undefeated in the district and scheduled to play Nov.

8 in Mission. Despite a perfect mark – and a dominant defense – the Eagles have had their problems, collecting about 85 yards per games in penalties. That’s led to some closer than expected final scores. The Eagles have have won 3 games by 7 points or less- none coming in district. Their closest win in district, by 13 points, came against Rio Grande City. But, do

Tough Tigers! The Mercedes Tigers defeated Rio Grande City to remain in second place in District 32-4A. The Tigers will play Mission (Nov. 8th). Pictured is RB Gilbert Vela from Mercedes . (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

not count out the Mercedes Tigers are still on a collision course with the Mission Eagles for the District 32-4A title. The Tigers have just one loss overall and hold a perfect District 32-4A record. Mercedes still needs to play Edcouch-Elsa and Roma before looking ahead to Mission.

The Tigers are averaging 381 yards of offense, second in the

district. Mission’s defense allows just 12 points per game. Last year, the Tigers defeated Roma in double-overtime to clinch the final playoff stop and they also eliminated the Gladiators. “This season is not over. I am proud of our team and we need to play each game and continue to work harder,” says Mercedes head football coach, Michael Uribe.

Undefeated Mission Eagles will host Mercedes on November 8th for a possible 32-4A District title showdown. Pictured is Randy De La Garza from the Eagles in their win over Valley View H.S. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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HSSM Football Report-32-4A

Mission Vets, Roma Looking For Playoff Berths in 2012

(Mission, Tx)-District 32-4A is simple to forecast, well, at least for now. The Mission Veterans Patriots are 2-2 in District 32-4A and in the fourth spot for playoffs – if Edcouch-Elsa’s season isn’t forfeited.

If the ruling against the Yellow Jackets is upheld and their season is forfeited, suddenly Mission Veterans is looking at still, a mathematical shot at earning a co-district champion title. Huh? Follow the scenario.

With the forfeited season, Mission Veterans’ record would change to 3-1. That would put them alone in second place. If they find a way to defeat Mission and win out, then Mission defeat Mercedes – in what most people believe will be the downright District 32-4A title game – and you have a three-way tie for first. It’s that simple... well, maybe not simple, but it sure it possible.

A lot of teams are waiting on the E-E verdict to be determined in Austin on Oct. 31. While each team still needs to win out, what currently is pretty clear cut – Mission and Mercedes will take first and second, Edcouch will take third and Mission Vets will round out the top four – could get pretty murky and wild if the Yellow Jackets have to forfeit their season. That means not only could Mission Veterans finish first or second – huge when it comes to postseason seedings - but if you count Roma, Valley View and Rio Grande City as getting that win against E-E, they are all 2-3 and fighting for the last place spot. So, a lot of teams have interest in the Edcouch-Elsa verdict – the Yellow Jackets, of course, first and foremost.

Eric Ramirez Roma High School

2012 Schedule

GLADIATOR August 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 9

JJ Moreno Roma High School

4A Playoffs? Mission Veterans is hoping to clinch a playoff spot in 32-4A. Pictured is WR Issac Guerrero. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador

Let’s Continue Our Proud Tradition!

Laredo Martin Won Laredo Johnson Won Laredo Cigarroa Won Edcouch-Elsa* Rio Grande City* Mission* Mission Vets* Valley View* Mercedes* Valley View*

Jesus O. Guerra, Jr

Roma ISD Superintendent

Jaime Escobar

Roma ISD Athletic Director

Max Habecker

Roma H.S. Athletic Coordinator

Roma ISD

608 North Garcia Street

Roma, Texas 78584 956-849-1377

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District Cross-Country Results

Weslaco East, PSJA Memorial Win Titles (Palmview, Tx)-Jose Carlos Jaime is returning to the State 5A Regional Championships with his La Joya Palmview Lobos and Weslaco East is returning to the regional meet – as a 5A school.

The junior – who won the District 30-5A title as a sophomore as well – ran to the individual title in the district meet at La Joya Juarez-Lincoln and while Lobos won the team title.

At the same time, Weslaco East’s cross country team was doing the exact same thing its football team was doing – running to first place in the Wildcats first season as a Class 5A entity. “Our team has worked hard all season long and it showed this week. We also won the junior varsity and freshmen titles too,” said East head coach Tom Owens.

The UIL Region IV Cross Country meet will be held Nov. 3 at the NSC Complex, 5931 Roft Road in San Antonio. The first race will start at 9 a.m. with the Class 5A girls followed by the Class 5A boys at 9:30 a.m. The final races will start with Class 4A girls at 12:30 followed by Class 4A boys at 1 p.m.

The top three teams and top 10 individuals will advance to the University Interscholastic League’s State Cross-Country Championships on Nov. 10th at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock, Texas.

Weslaco East’s Jose Martinez has been the top runner for the Wildcats all year. “Jose is a tremendous runner and at regionals, he will battle it out with San An-

tonio Clark’s top runner. We competed well against some top teams in the state. At a meet, we finished third overall with Southlake Carroll winning that meet earlier this year,” says Owens. As for Jose, he will be challenged by San Benito’s Rafael Duenes, who both

have the top times and have been the elite Valley runners all season.

Jaime used a late-kick to get past Micheal Guerrero in the final stages of the race. His latestretch spring is a strategy he’s been working to perfect all season and credits head coach Clau-

dia Bazan. “I have a lot of speed workouts that coach gives me,” he said. “That is the strategy that works best for me.”

In the girls’ division, first-year head coach Rudy Lopez from PSJA Memorial Lady Wolverines, he was elated with the title

31-5A District Cross-Country Champions! Weslaco East team members include front kneeling (l-r) Luis Jimenez, Abraham Morales, and Jayven Cordova. Back row (l-r) David Guzman, Alejandro Fajardo, Jose Martinez, Albert Herrera, and head coach Tom Owens. The Wildcats also won the JV and Freshmen titles. The Class 5A Region IV Cross-Country Championships at University of Texas-San Antonio, Texas at the National Shooting Center in San Antonio, Texas on November 3rd. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net win. Other district meets had still to be run at presstime.

Those include: District 32-4A — at Mission’s Bentsen Palm Park, 8 a.m. Oct. 27 District 313A — at Grulla campus, 9:30 a.m. Oct. 22 District 32-3A — at Hidalgo’s State Farm Arena, 8:45 a.m. Oct. 22 District 32-2A — at Bishop on Oct. 24 (Santa Rosa, Brownsville Frontier, Edinburg Quest) District 31-2A — at Corpus Christi’s West Guth Park Oct. 22 (La Villa, Santa Maria) District 32-1A — at Moulton, 2 p.m. Oct. 22 (San Isidro, San Perlita, Lasara) Teams heading to the Texas Cross Country Regional Meet in San Antonio: BOYS Weslaco East PSJA PSJA Memorial La Joya Palmview La Joya Juarez-Lincoln

Sharyland GIRLS PSJA Memorial PSJA Weslaco Sharyland Edinburg Economedes Edinburg North Individuals who advanced and were not part of a team that advanced: BOYS Rafael Duenes, San Benito Ricky Maldonado, PSJA North Michael Guerrero, La Joya Isaac Joel, Edinburg Vela Jose Ramos, Donna GIRLS Gabby Guerrero, McAllen Nikki Rowe Maria Segundo, McAllen Nikki Rowe Amy Mendoza, PSJA North Josefina Perez, San Benito Jessica Coronado, McAllen Memorial Yvonne Cerda, Edinburg Alexandra Cruz, Edinburg

PSJA Memorial Lady Wolverines Wins Cross-Country Title! The Lady Wolverines from their first-ever 31-5A title last Saturday. Pictured are front kneeling (l-r) Eliana Sanchez and Stephanie Ovalle. Back row (l-r) Valeria Landeros, Giselle Aguilar, Gabriela Ortegon, Chelsea Vargas, and Kassy Gonzalez. Head coach is Rudy John Lopez.

The Class 5A Region IV Cross-Country Championships at University of Texas-San Antonio, Texas at the National Shooting Center in San Antonio, Texas on November 3rd. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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UIL State Region IV-5A Volleyball Tournament in Edinburg

Sharyland, Ed-Elsa Win (McAllen, Tx)-The playoff picture is clearing up as the girls high school University Interscholastic League’s Volleyball State Tournament is just around the corner. The tournament begins with bi-district play Oct. 29-30 and ends Nov. 15-17 at the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, Tx. The Class 5A Region IV semifinals and finals will be held Nov. 9-10 at the UTPA Fieldhouse. “This has been a long time coming for the Valley,” said Edinburg ISD Athletic Director Joe Filoteo, who is also the director of the Region IV Class 5A tournament and a key component in getting the tournament shifted from the San Antonio area. “Hopefully we can advance one of our local teams.”

Several teams are hoping that the “home-court advantage” by playing in

30-5A Champions!

Sharyland won the title behind Lady Rattlers duo Lauren Trevino (11) and Kendal Heath (10) blocking Edinburg North’s Allison Brandt (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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2012 UIL State

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www.HighSchoolSportsMagazine.net season play and may have to have a one-game playoff against Mission Veterans to decide the District 32-4A winner. The two teams split a pair of matches during the season, including a 5-set thriller that lasted 2 ½ hours before the Yellow Jackets came out on top. Edcouch-Elsa is ranked 8th in Class 4A while Mission Veterans is 15th. Mission, Mercedes and Roma are also fighting for the final two slots. Mission held the inside track on third place as of this publication’s printing while Mercedes and Roma were tied for fourth.

Edcouch-Elsa is 76-2 since 2008 in district play, losing both matches to Mission Veterans. “We’re blessed to be able to keep bringing up

good talent from the junior varsity and not have to rebuild but reload,” said Yellow Jackets head coach Ofelia Griffith. “Even with injuries we’ve been able to stay strong because these girls can play all the positions and do all the things from each spot. We know one player can’t win it all the time for you, that it takes a team effort and these girls know that and play like that. We’re looking forward to the playoffs.”

In Class 5A, Los Fresnos and Brownsville Veterans clinched playoff spots with the Brownsville Hanna Lady Eagles winning the title. Three other teams, Harlingen, Harlingen South, and Brownsville Rivera still have hopes of clinching the final spot.

Ready for Playoffs! Both McAllen Memorial and McAllen High School will be headed to the State 5A Volleyball Playoffs next week. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

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McAllen ISD has cornered the market in District 31-5A with all three schools clinching spots.

Nikki Rowe – ranked 18th in the state Class 5A - will be the top seed, their most recent victory being a three-set sweep over PSJA North. Savannah Martinez and Audrey Contreras had 26 and 25 digs, respectively while Blana Pena and Mayda Garcia each had 11 kills and combined for five blocks. McAllen Memorial clinched second place in the district with a three-set sweep over McHi and just one match remaining for each team. Weslaco, San Benito and PSJA were still in contention for the final slot going into the final matches for each team.

District 30-5A’s top spot came down to the second meeting of the season between Edinburg North and Sharyland. Sharyland clinched that spot with a five-set win 22-25, 25-8, 25-17, 23-25 and 15-7. Sharyland won the first battle and both teams went into the second match tied at 13-1 in the district. Edinburg clinched third and Economedes edged out Edinburg Vela for fourth. Edinburg North, however had some bad news in that match as setter Danielle Trevino, who fell to the floor during the second set and didn’t play the rest of the match.

She still led the team with 11 assists, showing her value to the team. The early diagnosis was a possible torn ACL and she would be out for the remainder of the season.

Here is a glance at the UIL State Volleyball Playoffs Schedule: Oct. 29-30 – Bi Districts Nov. 1-3 – Area Round Nov. 5-6 – Regional Quarterfinals Nov. 9 – Regional Semifinals Nov. 10 – Regional Finals Nov. 15-17 – State Tournament

State 4A Ranked Teams!

Mission Veterans is ranked 15th and Edcouch-Elsa is listed as the 8th ranked team in Class 4A polls. Both teams finished tied for the District 324A title. Pictured are Shania Gilpin of Veterans and Laura Ruiz of the Lady Yellowjackets. (HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

32 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

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I N T E R V I E W

Scott Ford, Hidalgo Early College H.S. Head Football Coach

His Military-Style Appearance and Attitude is back in South Texas to take over a Pirate Football Program left in shambles by the previous staff. Ford now has his team thinking 32-3A Football Title and State 3A Football Title Run in 2012.

BY H E N R Y M I L L E R, HSSM Assistant Sports Director HSSM: How does it feel to be back in the Rio Grande Valley?

FORD: It feels good. It’s not so much location as it is a job where you can compete. Nacogdoches (where he spent two years) is 0-5 right now. They won’t win a game because they don’t do it the right way and they don’t want to do it the right way. Everyone here is supportive and it has been fun.

HSSM: You’ve got a freshman phenom (Shea Patterson) at quarterback. How do you deal with that?

FORD: Shea is very grounded and down to earth and there’s not a blade of arrogance in his body. That has to do with his parents and the people and human beings they are around. Plus, another good thing about Hidalgo is that we don’t get a ton of publicity and we’re not a 5A school – all those are big advantages for us.

HSSM: Outside of football, what has been the best things about coming back to the Valley?

HSSM: Do you have to keep him hidden from all the outside influences?

HSSM: Is there anything you miss about your last location?

(Photos by HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

FORD: His dad was smart and held him back a year so he’s a little older than a true freshman. He’s also been to camps all over the country – he went to the University of Pittsburgh and threw for them, and he’s been in two UFA all star games.

FORD: We feel at home for whatever reason. I also get to work with my wife she’s the P.E. Coordinator at Hidalgo and we get to spend a whole lot more time together. I’ve never been on the same campus as her. Our son is playing football too. Moving is always a difficult thing and we were apart for several months.

This has been a good family move.

34 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

FORD: It was a nice town with a lot of great people in the community. But I don’t miss anything about the job except for a couple assistant coaches and of course, the kids – they wanted to win.

HSSM: So now you’re here building a program. What’s been the toughest hurdle?

FORD: My elephant in the room is that we only have eight sophomores on the team because there was no freshman football last year. There’s a huge gap in the program and there’s going to come a time when there’s a very small senior class. But, no matter what, we’re here to build a program – and I’ve got a threeyear contract so that’s what we’re going to do, find ways to be successful.

HSSM: Excellent! Have a great season and see you in the state playoffs!

FORD: See you on the sidelines!

2012

Hidalgo Early College

State Playoffs Since 2000: 2004 & 2007 32-3A Varsity Schedule W L L W W W

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Good Luck This Season!

August 31 Raymondville Sept 7 Mercedes Hidalgo Early College High School Principal Sept 14 Valley View Domingo Villarreal III Sept 21 HM King Hidalgo Early ISD Superintendent Sept 28 Santa Maria Librado S. De Hoyos Oct 5 Grulla Oct 19 Rio Hondo* Head Football Coach Oct 26 Port Isabel* Hidalgo Early College H.S. Nov 2 Progreso* Athletic Director Nov 9 La Feria* Scott Ford **December 20-22, 2012 UIL State Championships Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, Texas

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2012

Mercedes TIGERS

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

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Varsity Schedule

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