2016 HSSM January Issue

19th Edition January 26, 2016

> Top Ten Polls > District by District > Girls Basketball > Boys Basketball

McAllen Memorial DJ Johnson

Leads Team in 30-6A

1-855-250-9940

Call Us Today!

(956) 661.8200 I (855) 99SINUS

We Solve Sinus Problems.

The Honrubia Technique™ for Balloon Sinuplasty The Honrubia Technique™ for Balloon Sinuplasty is a revolutionary, minimally invasive procedure for treating chronic sinusitis. The primary symptoms of chronic sinusitis are headaches, trouble sleeping, snoring, fatigue, facial pressure, ear discomfort, and post nasal drip. The Honrubia Technique™ addresses many of the primary symptoms of chronic sinusitis while maximizing the comfort and safety of the patient. It is recommended by our team of board certified ENT Physicians.

This technique involves less pain than a traditional sinus surgery and therefore contributes to a quicker recovery.

The Honrubia Technique™ for Balloon Sinuplasty is done under anesthesia. This ensures that patients have a more relaxing and positive experience than when the procedure is performed under a local anesthetic. It also allows us to address several other sinus related complaints. An anesthesia provider administers intravenous medications to keep patients lightly sedated and comfortable.

Our South Texas Sinus Institute team of specialists have performed thousands of procedures using the Honrubia Technique™ for Balloon Sinuplasty. Come see us at the South Texas Sinus Institute.

We Solve Sinus Problems.

2821 Michaelangelo Drive, Suite 201 Edinburg, TX 78539 SouthTexasSinusInstitute.com

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

05 Slammin’ Mustangs

20 District

Standings

McAllen Memorial maturing at the right time with playoffs near.

See which team is no.1 in your district from the Rio Grande Valley.

07 HSSM

27

Coaches from RGV schools show their expressions during games...

Sharyland, Harlingen both ranked in state polls. Can both advance to state tournament?

Courtside

08Top 10

Basketball

Which team is No.1?

Check out girls and boys polls by Tddave.

Girls

Basketball

32 Milestones Soccer

McAllen head soccer coach notches most wins at school.

04 HSSM

with Tddave

Los Fresnos H.S. #12 Taylor Theiss and #18 Vero Bratschi celebrates as their team wins on penalty kicks at the Brownsville ISD Tournament.

(HSSMIMages/Alec Amador)

High School Sports Magazine, L. L.C.

Concussions in every sport. Athletes get hurt every time.

30 HSSM

Fans in Stands

Loving Father draws more than 1,000,000 views for love of his daughter.

19th Edition January 26, 2016

> Top Ten Polls > District by District > Girls Basketball > Boys Basketball

McAllen Memorial DJ Johnson

Leads Team in 30-6A

OnTheCover 1-855-250-9940

McAllen Memorial HS Basketball Player is senior D.J. Johnson.

For more on UIL State Playoffs

High School Sports Magazine

Concussions, Sports Injuries...

Sports related injuries are common today with out notice. It goes on without notice for years. In high school, many athletes are injured without notice.

Concussions are amongst the most-sports related injuries that go unnoticed for years. The problem with Concussions is that they can long-term effects. Concussions happen when blows to the head occurs with some-type of collision. When this happens, the brain moves violently within the skull. According to medical reports, “brain cells all fire at once, much like a seizure.�

Some of the signs of Concussions are confusion, memory loss, headache, nausea, dizziness, and unconsciousness.

Soccer, football, and even basketball all experience Concussions during practice or play. Players make contact. At a recent soccer tournament, HSSM witnessed two players collide and fall to the turf. Both players were transported to the area hospital. Both players were feamles and soccer players. Concussions hurt. Play safe.

We Accept School Purchase Orders!

Analysa Caldelero from Del Rio HS suffered a head to head hit during her soccer game.

(HSSMimages/Alec Amador)

www.Fuddruckers.com

BUILDING SALADS & BURGERS 111 East Nolana Ave-McAllen-956-631-3833

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

Basketball Playoffs Begins February 22nd

How ‘Bout Them

Mustangs!

By David A. Amador HSSM Sportswriter

See Story Next Page

11

11

Since 1933...”We’re Family.”

801 W. Business 83 McAllen, TX

956.686.5441

www.clarkchevrolet.com

Come see the all-new

2016 Mustang!

Get $900 Rebate Incentives on 2015 Mustangs In Stock!

BETTERSELECTION SELECTION BETTER BETTER BETTERSERVICE SERVICEBETTER BETTERPRICES PRICES

COURTSIDE

Sam Cortez

McAllen Memorial HS

Rudy Garza

Edinburg North HS

Rene Gonzalez

Sharyland Pioneer HS

Jose Yebra

McAllen Nikki Rowe HS

Romeo De La Garza

Mission Veterans

Jaime Gongora

PSJA North HS

HSSM captures the frustrations, dedicated, competitive, head basketball coaches on the courtside at various games throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Coaches love this game of basketball and spend countless of hours with their teams to prepare for Gameday. Their expressions tells it all. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

Margaret Clark has taught thousands of children and adults how to swim. She began teaching swimming in Brownsville in 1930.

Her service to the Brownsville Independent School District is legendary. She taught for 50 years from 1931-1981, and was always involved in extra-curricular activities in the area of physical education.

In 2001, she was inducted into the RGV Sports Hall of Fame. She received the Distinguished Alumnus Award at The University of Texas at Brownsville/Texas Southmost College. The Natatorium built by Brownsville Independent School District now bears her name: the Margaret M. Clark Aquatics Center. (HSSMImages)

POLLS

TOP10

As As of January 26, 2016 of Decemeber 26, 2015

Boys Rankings 1. McAllen Memorial 19-5 2. Edinburg Vela 24-3 3. Weslaco 20-7 4. Los Fresnos 21-6 5. Brownsville Veterans 24-3 6. McAllen Nikki Rowe 20-9 7. Brownsville Pace 16-9 8. Sharyland Pioneer 16-10 9. Valley View 18-12 10. Edinburg North 19-9

Girls Rankings 1. Harlingen 27-1 2. Weslaco 25-6 3. Brownsville Veterans 23-5 4. McAllen Nikki Rowe 20-8 5. PSJA North 25-3 6. Mercedes 21-9 7. Rio Grande City 21-8 8. Edinburg 23-9 9. Rio Hondo 21-9 10. Sharyland 21-8

Go Bobcats. Isaiah Rios of Edinburg High School dribbles past PSJA North Raiders Dante Chapa. The Bobcats from District 31-6A and Raiders are in playoff contention.

(HSSMIMages/Tddave)

First McAllen ISD Female Athletic Director...

Paula Gonzalez, a Harlingen High School graduate and “Homecoming Queen”, the legendary volleyball head coach took her first head coaching job at Brownsville Pace High School at the age of 24. Gonzalez led her teams to 17 playoff appearances through 2008, when she also notched career victory No. 500. The Viqueens won or shared 10 district titles in her tenure at the school, including qualifying for two regional tournaments. The six-time Coach of the Year had a career winning percentage of over .700 In 2001, she received a prestigious honor when Fox Sports named her one of the “Coaches Who Make a Difference.”

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

Visit our website at www.WISD.us

Weslaco High School Lady Panthers

Head Coach Griselda Fino

319 West 4th Street Weslaco, Texas 78596

Head Coach William Kromer Advertisement Paid For By WISD

East Lady Wildcats Weslaco east wildcats 9

For more on UIL State Playoffs

High School Sports Magazine

Defending 31-5A Champions

Edinburg Economedes Varsity Girls Basketball

Edinburg Vela HS Varsity Girls Basketball

Edinburg North HS Varsity Boys Basketball-Bi District 6A Finalist Edinburg Bobcats Varsity Boys Basketball Bi-District 6A Finalist

Advertisement Paid

By ECISD

Edinburg Vela HS Varsity Boys Basketball

Defending Champions 31-5A

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

HSSM Basketball Highlights (McAllen, Texas)-A trip to San Antonio, Texas is what every basketball team in Texas dreams of reaching this season. Afterall, its the annual University Interscholastic League Basketball State Basketball Championships for three days, beginning Thursday March 10 through Saturday, March 12th at the Alamodome.

The 2016 UIL Boys basketball playoffs tips off on February 22nd with plenty of teams looking for playoff spots from

the Rio Grande Valley. In Class 6A, the McAllen Memorial High School Boys Basketball team looks like the team that could reach the 6A Region IV Tournament on March 4th at the UTSA Convocation Center in San Antonio. The Mustangs are filled with probably the best talent in school history. Head coach Sam Cortez knows that expectations are high for this year’s team. He also knows that another “one-and-done” elimination from the state

playoffs will not be accepted from this year’s squad. Leading the team are slamdunking senior, D.J. Johnson (6’6”200lbs), Jonathan Sanchez (6’7” 220lbs), and sophomore Josh Sanchez (6’4” 185lbs).

While Cortez remains mummed with interviews, he said that as alongs as he has his pre-game “Big Mac” meals before tipoff, things will be alright.

The big difference in 2016 has been the play of the Mustang’s point guards, senior Continue Next Page

13

Cool Cats! Edinburg Vela Sabercats and Edinburg Cougars look to make the playoffs in 2016. The Sabercats (Lalo Rios, head coach) knocked off Roma 100-63 in District 31-5A. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

Charging! Brownsville Veterans Memorial HS Aaron Villarreal dives for a loose ball against Harlingen South in a key District 32-6A game. The Chargers won 58-55 to improve to 24-3, one game behind league leaders, Los Fresnos HS. The Hawks dropped to third place overall. In District 31-6A, Weslaco East HS Jesus Ortiz will lead his Wildcats to a possible playoff appearance.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

Dorian Perez (11.0 ppg) and Joe Gamino (7.0 ppg, 5.0 asst pg). Both shooters have combined for 176 three-point attempts and have made 60 shots. The biggest asset the Mustangs prize the most are rebounds. As a team, the Mustangs have grabbed 606 rebounds. A win over state-ranked No. 22 Los Fresnos (67-49) shows promise that these Mustangs could make some noise in the state tournament. The Mustangs will face the fourth place team from District 29-6A. Most likely, Laredo United South or Del Rio High School.

In Class 5A, the Edinburg Vela Sabercats will get one more chance to play for a state title in Class 5A before they are expected to move to Class 6A with the upcoming University Interscholastic League’s Realignments set to debut again in February 2016. The Sabercats advanced to the UIL 5A Regional IV Basketball Tournament last season under head coach Lalo Rios. “This will be our last season in Class 5A before we are expected to move up,” says Rios.

In the playoffs, the Sabercats seemed untouchable with wins over PSJA (10157), before they played Corpus Christi Miller in a wild 70-68 win in the area championships. “That was one heck of a game,” says Rios as he clinched his fist, winning his first title as a Sabercats head coach. In the regional quarterfinals, Continue Next Page

14

For more on UIL State Playoffs

High School Sports Magazine

HSSM BASKETBALL Highlights Rivalries! McAllen Memorial HS DJ Johnson driving past McAllen HS Danny Gonzalez in District 30-6A game. The Mustangs won 46-40 to remain in first place. Bottom photo is McAllen center Lalo Campos going up against McAllen Nikki Rowe Derek Silva. Rowe won 58-39.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

Vela wasted no time by defeating Laredo Martin 102-48. In the regional semifinals, the Sabercats lost their edge as San Antonio Sam Houston put a stop to the high-scoring Sabercats by winning 66-57. To date, the 5A Texas Basketball Coaches Association No.11 Sabercats are on the same path as they experienced in 2015 sporting a 24-2 overall record and a perfect 6-0 record in District 31-5A. In the Sabercats line-up are eight seniors, including Michael Garcia (6’2), Luis Salinas (6’5), and Robert Arevalo 1988 McAllen Memorial Graduate

ALEJANDRO GUERRA Attorney at Law Federal Practice

1510 N. 10th Suite A McAllen, Texas 78501 956-630-0291 alexguerra.law@gmail.com www.alejandroguerraattorney.com High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

2015-16 HSSM BASKETBALL PREVIEW Rivalries! McAllen Memorial HS Joe Gambino guards McAllen HS Rick Cuellar in District 306A game. The Mustangs won 46-40 to remain in first place. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

(6’3). Point guard and play maker, Ryan Garza also returns for his junior year to lead the Sabercats.

In District 31-6A, the defending champions, Weslaco Panthers are off and running to with an overall record of 20-7. Trailing the Panthers are rivals, Weslaco East (16-6) followed by surprising Edinburg North (19-8)). In the contetion for possible Continue Next Page

18

REMAX Hacienda 2201 N. Sugar Rd Pharr, Texas 78577 956.782.9222

www.HaciendaPropertiesREV.com.com

Hector Guerra, Broker/Owner

Congratulations District Champs!

Timeout! The McAllen High School Bulldogs, coached by second-year head coach are the defending champions in District 30-6A. The Bulldogs are sitting in last place with hopes, a timeout from their first half district performance of 1-5 will be much better beginning this week with six games left to play. The Bulldogs are three games out of the final playoff spot. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

For more on UIL State Playoffs

High School Sports Magazine

HSSM BASKETBALL Highlights

Best of Five? In District 32-5A, the Edcouch-Elsa HS Yellowjackets and Mercedes boys basketball teams played to 4OTs. The Tigers won 81-80 under head coach Rick Trevino. Edcouch-Elsa (left) Mark Morones looks to pass while teammate Marco Auinaga is covered by Mercedes defenders.The UIL State Basketball playoffs begins February 22nd. Both teams are looking for playoff spots.

(HSSMImages/Tddave)

GameDay Party Package!

2806 West Trenton Road Edinburg, Texas

956-929-4700 956-212-5737

INCLUDES: ROUNDTRIP CHARTER BUS HOTEL NIGHT GAMEDAY Party Pass TICKET FREE BREAKFAST

Book Now! PAYMENT PLAN ACCEPTED!

*Per Person-Four Per Room

Leaves McAllen...

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

YOUR GAMEDAY TICKET

$219*

GameDay Charter Tours

ADMIT ONE AT&T STADIUM-ARLINGTON , TX

2016 Special Price...

Edcouch-Elsa ISD proudly salutes, 2015-16 HSSM BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2015-16 Boys Basketball Team

2015 Class 5A Bi-District Finalist Welcome Back Robert Capello... www.eeisd.org

Edcouch-Elsa ISD Athletic Director Christian Navarro Edcouch-Elsa HS Athletic Coordinator Joe Marichalar

Basketball Head Coach Robert Capello Edcouch-Elsa ISD Superintendent Dr. Richard Rivera

Advertisement paid by Edcouch-Elsa ISD.

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

For more on UIL State Playoffs

High School Sports Magazine

HSSM BASKETBALL Highlights

Jump Around! In District 31-5A, the Valley View HS Tigers boys basketball team are in second place with a 4-2 record, tied with Sharyland Pioneer and Roma Hs. The Tigers have defeated Sharyland Pioneer (51-48 OT), Sharyland (54-37), Mission Veterans (3329), and Rio Grande City (46-42), to remain in the hunt for a district title. The Tigers will play Edinburg Vela on January 29th.

The UIL State Basketball playoffs begins February 22nd.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

playoff berths are the young, fiesty, PSJA North Raiders at 14-11 overall. The Panthers looks like the team to beat as they return Justice Free (6’3), Nick Mora (6’1), Jordan Young (6’0), Diego Rodriguez (5’8), and Jason Morales (6’0). The Panthers are currently 5-1 in district play. As for the the Raiders? The undersized Raiders have posted wins over McAllen Memorial (64-61), Sharyland (69-39), McAllen (58-42), and Edcouch-Elsa (97-65) in non-conference games. Returning for the Raiders are Mario Hernandez, Anthony Chavez, Josh Garcia, RayRay Lopez, Dante Chapa, along with five more juniors and one freshmen listed on their roster. “We are young,” says head coach Jaime Gongora.

“We play with a lot of heart and I’m proud of our team.”

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

Another 31-6A team looking to challenge Weslaco will be the Edinburg North Cougars. Head coach Rudy Garcia knows that his team will be put to test when they begin district play. Returning for the Cougars are Bobby Cerda (6’5), Ublado Pegueno (6’3), Kobe Patterson (6’4), Christian Espinoza (6’3), and Alexis Bocanegra (6’0). The Cougars also found room for one freshmen, point guard Ricardo Alaniz (5’8) who is showing promise in his first year on varsity. Alaniz has played in fourteen games this season. Leading the Cougars are Patterson with 15.0 ppg and seven rebounds.

In District 30-6A, one question remains: Can the McAllen Bulldogs make it back to the UIL 6A Region IV Tournament

HSSM BASKETBALL Highlights

Playoff Hungry. In District 32-5A, the Mercedes HS Tigers boys basketball team are in second place behind Brownsville Pace. Winless Donna North HS lost to Mercedes 47-29 in only its second year of varsity competition. Alex Gonzalez goes up against Mercedes defender Ricky Jimenez. The UIL State Basketball playoffs begins February 22nd. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

under second-year head coach, Ryan Flores? The Bulldogs won the 30-6A title in 2015 and rolled into the playoffs with wins over Del Rio (56-43), Hanna (64-56), Harlingen South (54-48) before being eliminated by Shertz-Clemens 97-47 at the UTSA Convocation Center in San Antonio, Texas last March 6th. But that was last year. This year is, well, another season. Second-year head coach Ryan Flores is taking his lumps this year as his team sits in last place after winning the district title in 2015. Still, Flores is optimistic as they finally won their first district game last week by defeating La Joya Palmview 57-44. It was not the kind of loss

Palmview head coach, Andy Saenz was looking for as the first half of district plays ended. Last year, the Lobos defeated Laredo United South to wins its first bi-district title in school history. In the second round, the Lobos came up short, losing to Harlingen South 56-53. The Hawks fell to McAllen in the regional quarters 54-48. It’s been that of year for both teams. “We are rebuilding and our players beginning to come on board,” says Flores. “We just need to keep working harder.” The Bulldogs will have to work harder in the second half of the season Continue Next Page

23

Fuente de

Juventud ADULT DAY CARE

Sonia Gallegos-Director

2008 Redskins Ave Donna, Texas 78537 956-377-5158

1802 Scobey Ave Donna, Texas 1802 Scobey Ave Donna, Tx 956-464-5898

fdjcare@yahoo.com

For more on UIL State Playoffs

HSSM BASKETBALL Standings

High School Sports Magazine

Rivalry Showdown. In District 31-5A, the Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks (Jorge Suarez) defeated Sharyland High School (Sean Tucker) 73-52 to take a second place standing in district play under head coach Rene Gonzalez. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador) Boys

Standings

Region IV-Rio Grande Valley 26, 26, 2016 AsJanuary of Decemeber 2015

District 30-6A McAllen Memorial McAllen Rowe La Joya Palmview Mission LJ Juarez-Lincoln La Joya HS McAllen HS

Overall 19-5 6-0 19-9 5-1 15-12 3-3 6-17 2-4 2-4 6-9 13-12 2-4 9-15 1-5

District 31-6A Edinburg North Weslaco Edinburg Weslaco East PSJA North Economedes PSJA Memorial

Overall 20-8 5-1 19-8 5-1 18-7 4-2 18-8 4-2 14-11 3-3 4-13 0-5 2-13 1-5

District 32-6A Los Fresnos Bro Veterans Mem Brownsville Hanna Harlingen South Harlingen Brownsville Rivera Brownsville Lopez San Benito

Overall 21-6 24-3 10-15 16-6 15-10 10-15 10-15 5-15

7-0 6-1 4-3 4-3 4-3 2-5 1-6 0-7

Parties Learn To Skate Field Trips Figure Skating Club Sk8

201 North 26th Street McAllen, Texas 78501

956-972-0126

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

District 32-5A Overall Dist 16-9 7-0 Brownsville Pace 15-11 6-1 Mercedes 9-18 3-4 PSJA 9-19 4-3 Ed-Elsa 4-13 3-4 PSJA Southwest Brownsville Porter 9-14 3-4 3-14 2-5 Donna 6-15 0-7 Donna North

District 32-4A La Feria Hidalgo Grulla Rio Hondo Zapata Progreso Raymondville Port Isabel

Overall 18-8 15-10 12-8 10-9

District 31-5A Overall Dist 24-2 6-0 Edinburg Vela 12-14 4-2 Roma 17-12 4-2 Valley View Sharyland Pioneer 16-10 4-2 16-11 1-4 MissionVeterans 9-17 1-4 Rio Grande City 4-16 1-5 Sharyland

District 32-3A Overall 16-8 Santa Rosa 18-8 Lyford Brownsville Frontier 1-12 1-4 Monte Alto Edinburg IDEA

9-12 6-19 6-17

Dist 5-1 5-1 4-2 4-2 3-3 2-4 1-5 0-6

District 32-2A Overall Dist 15-7 4-0 Santa Maria 16-5 3-1 San Isidro 12-12 3-1 San Perlita 6-12 1-2 La Villa 4-12 1-2 Bruni 3-12 0-3 Lasara Rivera Kaufer 2-14 0-3

Dist 2-0 1-1 0-2 1-0 0-1

Overall Scoring Leaders L. Lara Santa Rosa 23.4 A. Cantu Edinburg 22.1 J. Salinas LJ Palmview 20.9 De La Cruz Los Fres 19.2 D. Gonzalez Bro Lopez 19.1 L. Garica San Isidro 18.8 A. Alanis LJ Palmview 17.0

HSSM BASKETBALL Standings

6A State-Ranked! In District 32-6A, the No.6 Harlingen Lady Cardinals and Jasmine Garcia are riding a 17-game winning streak with a perfect 9-0 district record. Brownsville Hanna lost 73-28 to the Lady Cards. Playoffs begin Feb.15th (HSSMImages/Alec Amador) Girls

Standings

Region IV-Rio Grande Valley 26, 2016 AsJanuary of Decemeber 26, 2015

District 30-6A Overall 19-8 McAllen Rowe McAllen Memorial 17-12 La Joya Palmview 19-8 11-17 La Joya 9-19 McAllen LJ Juarez-Lincoln 15-15 0-17 Mission

District 7-0 6-2 6-2 4-3 3-5 1-6 0-6

District 31-6A Overall District 24-6 8-0 Weslaco 24-3 5-2 PSJA North 4-3 Edinburg High 23-8 16-13 3-4 Edinburg North Weslaco East 16-16 3-4 Economedes 11-13 2-5 PSJA Memorial 11-17 0-7

District 32-6A Overall District 27-1 9-0 Harlingen Brownsville Vets 22-6 7-1 15-15 4-4 Harlingen South 18-12 4-4 Los Fresnos 17-15 4-5 Bro Hanna 12-14 3-5 San Benito 6-10 2-6 Bro Rivera 4-21 0-8 Bro Lopez

District 32-5A Overall District 20-9 8-0 Mercedes Brownsville Pace 14-12 6-2 13-13 6-2 PSJA 9-18 5-3 Donna 11-16 3-5 Edcouch Elsa 5-23 2-6 PSJA Soutwest 9-18 1-7 Donna North 3-23 1-7 Bro Porter

District 32-4A Overall District 11-10 7-1 Zapata 20-9 6-2 Rio Hondo 19-7 6-2 La Feria 13-13 6-2 Hidalgo 12-14 3-5 Grulla 9-27 2-6 Port Isabel Raymondville 7-14 2-6 10-13 0-8 Progreso

District 32-2A Overall District 7-0 Santa Maria 7-0 La Villa 13-5 6-1 4-3 San Perlita 5-7 Bruni 4-12 3-4 San Isidro 11-12 2-4 2-5 Riviera-Kaufer 2-6 Lasara 1-16 1-6

District 31-5A Overall District Sharyland 21-7 6-1 Rio Grande City 20-8 5-2 Roma 10-18 4-3 Edinburg Vela 12-16 4-3 Mission Veterans 17-12 3-3 Sharyland Pioneer 7-21 2-5 Valley View 9-18 0-7

District 32-3A Overall District Lyford 14-14 3-0 3-1 Bro IDEA 3-3 Edinburg IDEA 6-14 1-2 Santa Rosa 3-11 1-2 0-3 Monte Alto 3-6

Overall Rebound Leaders S. Perez Economedes P. Ellis Bro Hanna C. Magallon LJ Palmview M. Garza Sharyland A. Marshall Sharyland D. Castro Economedes A. Olivarez La Joya K. Vela Port Isabel

Independently owned and operated Domino’s Franchise with 10 Locations in South Texas.

Order Online at www.Dominos.com 795 W Business Hwy 77 4570 E US Hwy 83, Ste. 21 San Benito, Texas 78586 Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 702 N Main St, Ste 2 La Feria, Texas 78559

1522 W University Dr Edinburg, Texas 78539

2016 W Nolana Ave McAllen, Texas 78504

604 N Texas Blvd Weslaco, Texas 78596

409 N Bryan Rd, Ste 101 Mission, Texas 78572

1140 E Interstate 2 Pharr, Texas 78577

401 Hooks Ave Donna, Texas 78537

1702 Hwy 100, Ste D Port Isabel, Tx 78578

13.0 12.0 11.8 10.8 10.8 9.4 9.1 9.0

2015-16 HSSM BASKETBALL PREVIEW

in the sceond half with just fives games left to play. The problem? Not playing four quarters of basketball. District losses to La Joya JuarezLincoln (51-47), McAllen Memorial (46-40), Palmview (57-54), Mission (61-47), McAllen Rowe (58-39), and La Joya (61-47) now have the

Bulldogs sitting in last place. As strange as it may seem, but don’t count out the Huskies from Las Joya Juarez-Lincoln. These dogs are hungry. These dogs are for real. Wins over Mission (45-44) and McAllen (51-47) have the Huskies tied for fourth place overall in District 30-6A. Sister school, Palmview is sitting in

third place overall.

In District 32-5A, Brownsville Pace leads the district with Mercedes, Edcouch-Elsa, andd PSJA waiting for an opportunity to take the lead in this tight race for the title.

Moving over to District 32-4A, the second half will determined the champion. La

Feria, Hidalgo, Grulla, and Rio Hondo all have a shot at playoff spots and a possible district title too. The Pirates are the reigning title holders.

Institute of Sports Performance & Rehab L.L.C.

Specializing In: Aquatic Therapy Work-Related Injuries Back Pain Relief Arthritis Care/Prevention Sports Injuries Post-Operative Rehab Special Population Exercise

2001 South D. Street McAllen, Tx 78503 (956) 686-2242

Score BIG with a loan from us.

Installment loans from

$205 to $205 to$1,315* $1,315* Telephone applications welcome.

Hablamos Espa単ol

0982 Sunbelt Credit

Brownsville

(956) 544-6400

1867 Merit Finance

Brownsville 0378 Security Finance

Harlingen 0913 Security Finance

McAllen 1796 Security Finance

Elsa 1906 Security Finance

Alamo

0960 Security Finance

Mission 1823 Security Finance

Los Fresnos 0394 Security Finance

San Benito 0956 Security Finance

Mercedes

(956) 702-6882 (956) 584-7497 (956) 233-1916 (956) 399-1811 (956) 514-9441

1733 Security Finance

Alton

1648 Security Finance

La Joya 0470 Security Finance

Weslaco 0699 Security Finance

Brownsville 0629 Security Finance

Raymondville

(956) 542-1734 (956) 423-0154 (956) 687-1290 (956) 262-6948 (956) 584-3117 (956) 583-1431 (956) 968-0558 (956) 541-1413 (956) 689-2495

1213 Continental Credit

Brownsville 1741 Continental Credit

McAllen

(956) 541-1543 (956) 631-0920

*All loans are subject to credit limitations and our underwriting policies, including verifiable ability to repay. Actual loan proceeds may vary based upon loan terms. Dollar amounts are rounded to the lowest whole dollar and are subject to change.

Girls Basketball Highlights

Flyin’ 6A State-Ranked

Lady Cards Harlingen, Weslaco, Sharyland Lead Districts

(Harlingen, Texas)-Ever since Ashley Moncivaiz took over the girls basketball program last year, the Harlingen Lady Cardinals (27-1) just seem untouchable. The Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) currently ranks the Lady Cards at No.6 in Class 6A. As a matter of fact, the Harlingen Lady Cardinals are the only girls basketball team from the Rio Grande Valley ranked in the Top 25 polls by TABC. By comparison, Duncanville (28-0) is the no.1 team in Texas followed by Galena North Shore (27-1), SpringDeKaney(26-1), Amarillo (25-4), and Cibolo Steele (28-1) at no.5.

As strange as it might seem, the Steele Lady Knights are from Region IV, so if the polls are right, then both Harlingen and Steele could meet in the state-quarterfinals on February 27th at the UTSA Convocation Center. The winner would advance to the state tournament at the Alamodome in San Antonio on March 3-5th. The last time a team from the Rio Grande Valley played in the state tournament was Hidalgo in 2008. Since then, no other team has come close.

Frontrunners from their prospective districts are 30-6A McAllen Nikki Rowe, 31-6A Weslaco High , 32-6A Harlingen, 31-5A

By David A. Amador HSSM Sportswriter

See Story Next Page

27

Senior Marissa Gasca hopes to lead the Harlingen Lady Cardinals to the 6A State Tournament in San Antonio, Texas on March 3-5th at the Alamodome.

(HSSMImages/Tddave)

Good Luck Weslaco and Weslaco East!

THANK-YOU WESLACO! GOOD LUCK TEAMS!

Advertisment Paid By Candidate

www.RioValleyMeatco.webs.com

110% Open 7-Days 7a-7p

724 South Texas Blvd Weslaco, Texas 78596

26

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

It’s what you give every time you take the field. At BBVA Compass, we also give 110%-not only when it comes to banking, but when it comes to supporting the communities we call home.

Good luck Weslaco Panthers, Wildcats & Mercedes Tigers. we’re behind you 110%.

Weslaco (956) 969-6225 & Mercedes (956) 365-6451 500 S. Missouri Ave. Weslaco, Tx 78596 201 Starr St. Mercedes, Tx 78570 (956) 969-6224

HSSM GIRLS BASKETBALL Highlights

Sharyland, 32-5A Mercedes, 32-4A Zapata, 32-3A Lyford, and 32-2A Santa Maria.

The Donna Redskins are sitting in fourth place in 32-5A and they are being challenged by EdcouchElsa High School. The Lady Bravettes, coach by Kris Kromer made the playoffs last year before losing to Roma 43-42 in the 5A Bi-District championships.

Another team looking to make the playoffs are the Rio Grande City Lady Rattlers. Their win over Sharyland Pioneer last week has changed everything. Now, the Lady Rattlers are thinking district title. A loss by Sharyland puts the Lady Rattlers into a tie for first place. In 30-6A, La Joya Palmview, McAllen Memorial, and McAllen all control their own destinies. La Joya and JuarezLincoln could play spoiler roles on any given night and could sneak in...stay tuned.

Twice. The Weslaco Lady Panthers are Still Perfect. District 31-6A Weslaco High School defeated PSJA North twice this season to remain at 8-0. In 32-5A, Donna HS and junior Mercedes Castaneda is hoping to make the playoffs again as they hold on to fourth place and Sharyland HS senior Anna Marshall is currently sitting in first place in 31-5A. (HSSMImages/Tddave)

956.532.8804

6801 Mile 4 Rd West-Weslaco, Texas

For more on UIL State Playoffs

High School Sports Magazine

HSSM GIRLS BASKETBALL Highlights

District 30-6A leader, the McAllen Nikki Rowe High School Lady Warriors, Ryela Rodriguez guards La Joya HS Clarissa Mendiola as they won 40-30. The Lady Coyotes are vying for a playoff spot. (HSSMImages/Tddave)

TABC State-Rankings Girls Basketball Class 6A 1. Duncanville 28-0 2. North Shore 27-1 3. Spring-DeKaney 26-1 4. Amarillo 25-4 5. Cibolo Steele 28-1 6. Harlingen 27-1 7. Cy-Woods 19-6 8. Killeen 25-4 9. Cedar Hill 22-6 10. Plano West 24-4 11. Clear Springs 21-6 12. Euless Trinity 23-3 13. Mesquite Horn 23-5 14. SA Clark 27-3 15. SA Johnson 21-7 16. S Grand Prairie 21-8 17. Flower Mound 20-4 18. Seven Lakes 22-8 19. Waco Midway 23-5 20. Judson 22-4 21. SA Brandeis 19-8 22. Richardson 19-7 23. La Alexander 24-7 24. Clear Falls 23-5

28

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

Class 5A 1. Timberview 25-0 2. Canyon 23-1 3. El Paso Burges 21-3 4. Wichita Falls Rider 27-1 5. Vista Ridge 24-4 6. John Tyler 24-2 7. Lufkin 24-1 8. Floresville 24-3 9. Bryan Rudder 24-4 10. Frisco Liberty 22-6 11. Hereford 18-4 12. Georgetown 16-9 13. West Mesquite 18-6 14. Barbers Hill 20-7 15. Beaumont Ozen 21-3 16. McKinney North 20-8 17. Prosper 23-5 18. FB Bush 16-6 19. Summit 17-5 20. Tomball Mem 16-3 21. Aledo 20-7 22. Cigarroa HS 26-6 23. Austin LBJ 22-5 24. Crowley 16-5

For more on UIL State Playoffs

Fans In the Stands High School Sports Magazine

He’s My Dad. He’s My No.1 Fan...

Lorena Ayala, a sophomore and varsity basketball player from Santa Maria HS takes a photo with her Dad, RENE Ayala.

Ayala was severely injured in a gas-blast at home almost twenty-years ago and lost his arms and legs. He also sustained major burns to his body. “I’m my daughters biggest fan and she loves me,” says Rene Ayala. The Lady Cougars defeated La Villa HS on Tuesday night in a District 32-2A match up. More than 1.3 million fans shared this photo on Facebook/HighSchoolSportsMagazine.

“I’m My Daughter’s Biggest Fan and She Loves Me...”

Rene Ayala

Santa Maria HS Fan

“30 Years Serving Hidalgo County” Experience Commitment

Leadership Accountability

30 High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

Dedication Respect

Don’t Drink and Drive.

2015-16 Donna ISD Administration Deputy Superintendent of Schools Fernando Castillo Donna H.S. Principal Nancy Castillo Donna ISD Athletic Director Manny Moreno Donna H.S. Athletic Coordinator Ramiro Leal Jr.

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

by Donna ISD

2015-16 Donna ISD School Board Alberto Sandoval President Eloy Infante Vice-Pres Nick Castillo Secretary Board Members Tammy Ramos Elipidio Yanez Jr Ernesto Lugo Efren Ceniceros

32-5AAAAA 2015-16

Basketball

Pictured are Sarah Gonzalez, Desiree Hernandez, Melanie Arenas, Tatyana Epperson, Celeste Mata, Mercedes Castaneda, Daisy Rios, High School Sports Magazine 31 Alex Cantu, Ashlee Moreno, Laurynn Williams, Bridget Guillen, Aileen Garza, Edith Zuniga, and Stacy Lugo. Head coach is Kevin Kromer.

For more on UIL State Playoffs

No.400

School Milestones

High School Sports Magazine

dogs expect to make plenty of strikes and plenty of goals after last year’s University Interscholastic League State 6A Region IV Quarterfinal appearance. Wins over Los

Fresnos (2-0), Brownsville Lopez (2-1), and Laredo United 3-2 in the playoffs makes them clear favorites to contend for a district title and another state title run 2016.

And Counting...

(McAllen, Texas)-Pat Arney likes milestones. Especially ones that started when he took over the McAllen High School girls soccer team and since then, the Lady Bulldogs have won plenty of soccer games.

To be exact, 400 games and counting. Recently, the Lady Bulldogs won their pool at the Brownsville ISD Girls Soccer tournament held at the Brownsville Sportspark.

The Lady Bulldogs defeated Brownsville Pace in the Gold Bracket 1-0 and then lost to Brownsville Lopez 1-0 in the semifinals. The Lady Bull-

Big Challenge! The McAllen HS Girls Soccer team in District 30-6A hopes to advance to Class 6A Region IV Tournament. The Lady Bulldogs advanced to the third round of the state playoffs in 2015.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

32

High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

2016 HSSM Soccer Highlights

Lady Jags Win Soccer Brownsville ISD Soccer Tournament

Tournament

Los Fresnos Repeats as Tournament Champions with win over Lopez

(Brownsville, Texas)-The Los Fresnos Lady Falcons won the 17th annual Brownsville ISD girls soccer tournament and received a little preview of the upcoming District 32with a 2-1 victory Saturday against 32-6A Brownsville Lopez on penalty kicks.

The three-day, 28-team BISD Tournament was played at Brownsville Sports Park and featured pool play before the top two teams from each of four groups advanced to Saturday’s quarterfinal competition. The Lady Falcons won the BISD title in 2015 with a 6-0 victory against Edinburg Economedes in the tournament final. The Lady Falcons advanced to the Region IV-6A finals last season after going 27-4. The Lady Falcons advanced to Saturday’s Gold Bracket final with wins against Edinburg North (1-0 PKs) and Brownsville Veterans Memorial (10). Lopez advanced to the finals with wins against Laredo United South (1-0) and McAllen High (1-0). Los Fresnos headcoach Patricia K. Hernandez was pleased with her team’s performance.

In Saturday’s Silver Division, Edinburg Economedes defeated Edinburg High 3-0 in the final. The Lady Jag-

uars were led by two goals from Krysta Armstrong and one from Ayssa Ozuna.

Saturday, Jan. 16 17th annual Brownsville ISD Tournament at Brownsville Sports Park Bracket Play-Gold Division Quarterfinals Brownsville Veterans Memorial 1, Hanna 0 Los Fresnos 1, Edinburg North 0, PKs McAllen High 1, Pace 0 Lopez 1, Laredo United South 0 Semifinals Los Fresnos 1, Brownsville Veterans Memorial 0 Lopez 1, McAllen High 0 Championship Los Fresnos 2, Lopez 1, PKs

2016 UIL State Soccer Championships Birkelbach Field Georgetown, Texas April 13-16 April 13th Girls State 4A Semifinals11:00 a.m.

Semifinals 1:30 p.m.

Boys State 4A 4:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

April 14th Girls 5A Semifinals 9:30 a.m.

Semifinals 12:00 noon 4A Girls Finals 2:30 p.m.

5A Boys Semifinals 5:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Friday, April 15th 6A Girls Semifinals 9:30 a.m.

12:00 noon 6A Boys Semifinals 5:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 16th Girls Finals 11:00 a.m. 5A 4:00 p.m. 6A Boys Finals 1:30 p.m. 5A 6:30 p.m. 6A

Edinburg Teams Clash. Edinburg High School Jessica Sierra and Economedes High School Lady Jaguars, Ayssa Ozuna met in the finals of the Silver Division at the Brownsville ISD Soccer Tournament.

2015 Champions Boys-San Elizario 4A Girls-Kennedale 4A Boys-Lufkin 5A Girls-Wylie East 5A Boys Brownsville Rivera 6A Girls-Coppell 6A

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

High School Sports Magazine

35

New State Realignments Could Effect Some RGV Schools Weslaco, Weslaco East, Vela, PSJA Southwest, Brownsville Veterans, Edcouch-Elsa Could Move Into New Districts

(McAllen, Texas)-The Weslaco Panthers and Weslaco East Wildcats could find themselves in newer territories for the next two seasons as the University Interscholastic League’s realignments are announced on February 2nd. The meeting will be held at the Region One Building in Edinburg.

Both Weslaco schools could move to District 32-6A as Brownsville Lopez and Brownsville Veterans Memorial will move down to District 32-5A. This realignment could create one of the toughest districts in the state with Weslaco, Weslaco East, Harlingen, Harlingen South, San Benito, Los Fresnos, Brownsville Hanna, and Brownsville Rivera.

Head football coach Tony Villarreal from Weslaco High School sees the change happening. “I want to say yes. That’s what everybody is thinking. The UIL always comes out with something new,” says Villarreal.

Should Villarreal be right, this would mean that District 31-6A would be short two teams with both Weslaco Schools moving to District 32-6A. PSJA, PSJA North, PSJA Memorial, Edinburg, Edinburg North, and Edinburg Economedes will make up District 31-6A and more than likely, PSJA Southwest and Edinburg Vela will both move up from 5A to 6A, Southwest looks to maybe, petition, to move to the 6A level despite their lower classification numbers which stands at the 5A level.

However, Roy Garza, Edinburg CISD Athletic Director sees another scenario. “We could be realigned with all three La Joya Schools, along with Mission,” says Garza. Should this prediction occur, then all three McAllen schools would be adjoined with all four PSJA Schools.

The change in 31-5A will effect the district, leaving it with one-less team. Sharyland, Sharyland Pioneer, Valley View, Roma, Mission Veterans, and Rio Grande City will create a six-team district. Should Southwest be granted its possible petition wish, then Edcouch-Elsa could find themselves moving from District 32-5A to 31-5A. Mission Veterans head football coach Dave Gilpin has filled his non-district spots with Harlingen, Weslaco, Mission, and Laredo Alexander. “Right now we are anticipating that this will happen but you never know what the UIL will do,” laughs Gilpin. (HSSMImages)

36 High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

31-6A? Edinburg Vela Advanced to the Class 5A Regional DI Finals against Austin Vandegrift in 2015. (HSSMImages/Tddave) LIKE Us on

GARZA Now Registering Teens & Adults...

956-318-5141

912 S. Closner Blvd

(Defensive Driving & Driver Ed Courses) Edinburg, Texas 78539

2016 HSSM Soccer Highlights

Silver Division Division Quarterfinals Edinburg High 1 La Joya High 0, PKs Laredo LBJ 1, Rivera 0 Porter 2, Valley View 0 Edinburg Economedes 1 Harlingen High 0 Division semifinals Edinburg High 1, Laredo LBJ 0, PKs Edinburg Economedes 1 Bro Porter 0 Division championship Edinburg Economedes 3 Edinburg High 0 17th Annual Brownsville ISD Tournament at Brownsville Sports Park

Friday’s Games Pool Play Valley View 3, PSJA Memorial 1 LBJ 2, Economedes 1 (PKs) Martin 2, Edinburg High 1 (PKs) LUS 2, Edinburg North 1 Hanna 3, PSJA North 1 Los Fresnos 2, Lopez 1 McAllen High 2, Brownsville Veterans 0 LUS 2, Harlingen High 1 Hanna 6, Rio Hondo 0 Lopez 6, Progreso 0 Brownsville Veterans 1, La Feria 0 Rivera 2, Hidalgo 0 La Joya High 2, Pace 1 Juarez-Lincoln 1, Donna High 0 Porter 1, Mission High 0 (PKs) District 32-6A Los Fresnos High School Lady Falcons defeated Brownmsville Lopez in the BISD Soccer Championships on Saturday. Pictured is Los Fresnos HS Kateland Vela kickinbg as her teammates celebrate their victory. (HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

More Than 48,660 LIKES... and COUNTING!

“Thank you for keeping us update w/ scores and Thank you for the awesome pictures...

Cynthia G. Garza

“This is an awesome alternative to keep informed when you can’t be at the game...

Luis Avalos

High School Sports Magazine

37

For more on UIL State Playoffs

2016 HSSM Wrestling Highlights High School Sports Magazine

District 16-5A Dual Championships

RGC Wins Both Titles

Wrestling Titans. Raul Lopez (RGC) and Jordan Hull from Sharyland HS square off while RGC Juan Herrera is held on by Sharyland’s Joseph Suarez. In bottom photo, Mission Veterans HS Mariah Gonzalez is held by Esmeralda Martinez from Donna North HS. Corpus Christi Veterans HS Richard Risley tops Felipe Trevino from Grulla.

(HSSMImages/Alec Amador)

Bigger choices.

Better food.

For football season!

And so much more...

Brownsville • 4365 Expwy 77/83 Harlingen • 2224 S. Hwy. 77 McAllen • 4100 N. 2nd St. McAllen • 1308 US Expwy. 83 jasonsdeli.com

38 High School Sports Magazine/January 26, 2016

At Sharyland Pioneer High School, the Rio Grande City Rattlers boys and girls teams swept the District 16-5A Duals Championships on Saturday, January 23rd.

The Rattlers defeated host, Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks 46-28 in the championship match to win the title for the second straight season. On the girls side, the Lady Rattlers defeated Mission Veterans Memorial HS 36-18 to claim their title.

In other finishes, the PSJA boys team finished third overall with their win over Grulla HS and Edinburg Vela pinned Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial for third place in the girls division.

Rio Grande City’s Jose Alonso went undefeated at 4-0 in the 160lb weight limite as he led his Rattlers to victory.

This year’s UIL State Wrestling meet will be held at Berry Center, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Athletic Center on February 19-20th.

HSSMFootballPreview2015

Get discounts up to 40%.

Get discounts up to 40%.

Call, click, or visit on your car insurance and find out Call One of these Agents Today! how you money to and the #1 Call, click,can or save visit on your by carswitching insurance findteam. out

how you can save money by switching to the #1 team.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7 CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7

Bobby Palacios, agent Ruben Solis, agent Daniel Reza, agent Julian Garza, agent 1221 SunshineStrip Strip 2701 M Torres83Ste 411 RdA6 A6 112 411NNJackson Jackson Rd 112E. E. Expressway Expressway 8383 1221 S S 77 77 Sunshine 1529Ruben W. Expressway Ste B A Harlingen, Texas 78550 Brownsville, Texas 78526 Pharr, Texas 78577 La Joya, Texas78560 78560 Pharr, Texas 78577 La Joya, Texas Harlingen, Texas 78550 Weslaco, Texas 78596 956-686-7400 Office 956-584-3333 Office 956-425-3276 office 956-550-8080 956-86-7400 office 956-584-3333 office 956-425-3276 Office 956-447-9704 office office 1221866-528-2326 S 77 Sunshine Strip 2701 Ruben M Torres Ste B 956-686-7400 411 N JacksonFax Rd A6 112 E. Expressway 83 877-682-0098 956-584-0497 Fax Fax 956-447-0814 866-528-2326 fax 956-550-8088 fax 877-682-0098 fax 956-584-0497 fax Harlingen, Texas 78550 Brownsville, Texas 78526 Pharr, Texas 78577 La Joya, Texas 78560 www.BobbyPalacios.com www.Ruben Solis.com www.DanielReza.com www.juliangarza.net www.DanielReza.com www.BelindaZapata.com www.BobbyPalacios.com www.RubenSolis.com 956-425-3276 office 956-550-8080 office 956-86-7400 office 956-584-3333 office 866-528-2326 fax 956-550-8088 fax 877-682-0098 fax 956-584-0497 fax www.DanielReza.com www.BelindaZapata.com www.BobbyPalacios.com www.RubenSolis.com High School Sports Magazine

PO90236 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL39

of San Juan

2016 Audi A3 Sedan 1.8 TFSI engine Acura Premium Audio System with Bluetooth, USB, Keyless Access System Multi-view rear camera, Push Button Ignition.

Panoramic sunroof.

EPA

24 city 35 hwy

$1000 BONUS! *When you Lease...

Starting at $30,900

*See Us For Details!

1001 East Expressay 83 San Juan, Texas 78589 Sales 1-888-928-8249 Service 1-888-714-3687 Parts 888-714-8955