2018 Sports Preview Fall Edition

DISTRICT 30-6A

DISTRICT 16-5A DIV.I

2018 HIGH SCHOOL

DISTRICT 16-5A DIV. II

2018 Fall Edition

SPORTS PREVIEW

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

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A look at this Year’s Big 7 Teams Quick Look at District 30-6A

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District 30-6A projects to be one of the toughest in all of Valley football with six serious playoff contenders.

The new look district sees the addition of PSJA and PSJA North to the group of Mission, La Joya, Juarez-Lincoln, McHi, Memorial and Nikki Rowe. The target is on the back of the defending district champion Memorial Mustangs, and with PSJA, La Joya, Mission and Juarez-Lincoln all capable of claiming the top spot, anything can happen in District 30-6A in 2018.

best team in Juarez history,” said Head Coach Tomas Garcia. “They understand that was a very good team and they didn’t make the playoffs, so they have to work that much harder to make the playoffs. That is carrying over to this year, they have a chip on their shoulder this year. We want to prove that we belong in the playoffs.”

The Huskies return four starters on each side of the ball, but this year’s team has an advantage past teams have lacked: height on the outside.

Traditionally a run-first team, the Huskies and quarterback Efren Martinez have two six foot tall weapons on the outside in receivers Luis Rodriguez and Luis Flores, known as Twin Towers to their teammates. Brothers Efren and Albert Martinez are set to do the groundwork with their legs, but the Huskies won’t be afraid to air it out this year.

“The size is one attribute, then we have fast guys in the slot, so it’s going

to be hard for other corners to keep up because we can do more with our talent,” Rodriguez said.

Defensively, the Huskies have one goal: be the best defense in the district. Juarez-Lincoln feels they have the talent to do just that with returning All-District members Monreal and Briseno, who are joined by Buenrostro in the secondary and Jason Martinez on the middle level from his linebacker position.

“The defensive line is incredible right now, starting with Xavier Monreal,” Briseno said. “We’re looking to be the number one defense in the district, hopefully in the Valley. We’re going to be coming after every team.

We’re a punishing team, we hit hard, that’s how it is.”

District 30-6A looks to be one of the toughest in the Valley, but this year’s Juarez-Lincoln team has what it takes to put together the best record in program history and put the Huskies back in the playoffs.

This is a well-built team, a senior team,” Briseno said. “I think this is one of the best teams Garcia has ever had and we’re just looking to make history here at Juarez-Lincoln.”

8 TDs) to run through. The strength up front bodes well for the La Joya offense as they are moving to more of an option attack this year, which suits Villarreal’s and quarterback J.R. Rodriguez’ style.

“The thing about this offense is it lends itself to the athletes that we have. Right now, we have J.R., he’s quick on his feet and if he gets a crease his speed will allow us to make some big plays.”

To put it plainly, La Joya shuts teams down. Defensively, the Coyotes were amongst the top units in the Valley, giving up just 187 points on the year.

This season, the Coyotes return all three of their linebackers, two bigs up front and the playmaking Zamora (286 receiving yards, 10 TDs, 51 tackles, 4 INTs) in the secondary. The La Joya defense is determined to repeat as the best in the league while shutting down running back they line up against.

“We’re really big on being quick-offthe-ball and physical on the line and in the box,” Ramirez said. “We’re going to try to shut down every running game in our district. We’re a tough team, we’re aggressive and we like hitting people, that’s what we’re known for.”

The Coyotes will have to battle every week in order to clinch a playoff spot for the second straight season in District 30-6A, one of the Valley’s toughest. This team is designed to overpower opponents and grind out victories by running over you and locking down defensively, a good recipe to win football games.

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Juarez-Lincoln Huskies The Juarez-Lincoln Huskies have a chip on their shoulder entering 2018.

After a 6-4 record last season, the best in school history, the Huskies were still on the outside looking in on the playoffs thanks to a heartbreaking tie-breaker in the final week which kept the Juarez out.

“Our kids understand that we had a very good team; at 6-4 that’s the

SCHOOLS La Joya Coyotes Last season La Joya got its first taste of the playoffs since 2014 last and now the Coyotes are hungry for more entering this year. The Coyotes resembled the great La Joya teams of the past by being unstoppable on the ground and shutting opponents down defensively on their way to the postseason. With 11 starters returning, Head Coach Reuben Farias has the Coyotes focused on a repeat performance and putting La Joya back in the playoffs once again.

“I told our boys the goal is to go 7-3 overall,” Farias said. “I believe if we have a 7-3 record that gets us into the playoffs. With the kids coming back it gives us a good opportunity as long as we stay healthy.”

The Coyote offense is loaded with size on the offensive line who love to create room for Villarreal (1,445 yards,

Mission Eagles The Mission Eagles are on the rise, and in 2018, the pieces are coming together making them one of the more interesting teams in the Valley.

Koy Detmer enters year three as Head Coach at his alma mater with the most talented team he’s had in his time in Mission. While the Eagles have made strides forward, Detmer feels the Eagles are close to where they need to

See DISTRICT 30-6A Pg. 3

SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

from pg. 2 DISTRICT 30-6A be which is contending for a playoff spot.

“We’re very close; we made strides forward and there’s some fundamental things last year in some of those games that weren’t far off,” he said.

“Correcting some of those simple, fundamental things would have given us a chance to possibly win those close games. With our talent, our athleticism, we’ll make things happen, but we have to be fundamentally sound first.”

The Eagles are three deep at quarterback this season, and after injuries to their starter in the last two seasons, Mission is prepared. Damian Gomez returns for his junior year after putting up 1,126 passing yards and 7 TDs a season ago. He is joined by JR Cortez, a transfer from McHi, and freshman Jeremy Duran to give Detmer a deep and capable stable of quarterbacks.

Paired with Gonzalez, one of the fastest receivers in the Valley, the Eagles will be dangerous on offense.

“We have a good group of guys and it’s the first time I’ve been here that we’ve had a crew of them,” Detmer said. “We have a good crew of guys there and they’re all working to improve their game, and when they’re called upon they’ll be ready to go.”

Defensively, the Eagles are eager to prove they’re a fast, demolishing unit. The return of junior linebacker Aleksander Gomez and senior Joe Resendez, who missed six games due to a high ankle sprain in 2017, has the defense fired up and ready to roll this year.

“All of us are excited, especially our linebacker Alek, he’s real excited,” said Resendez. “It fires us all up, he gets us into this mentality where the sky’s the limit.”

The sentiment is shared throughout the entire team, and with a new district, each player is focused on one thing: “Go to the playoffs,” Gonzalez said.

“It’s been a while since we’ve made the playoffs, but like I said, we have potential this year. Our team’s looking pretty good. We’re hoping for the best and trusting everyone’s doing their part.”

The Eagles will finally get to play in front of their fans at Tom Landry Hall of Fame Stadium after a year away, and with the added home-field advantage this year, Mission could be a team that fights its way into the playoffs in District 30-6A.

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Wishing You The Best of Luck

This Season!

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

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2018 Juarez-Lincoln Huskies Football Team

2018 Schedule 8/30 vs Rio Hondo (L) 41-21 9/7 @ Shary Pioneer (L) 31-29 9/13 vs Edinburg High (L) 13-22 9/28 vs P.S.J.A. North* 7:30 p.m.

10/5 @ Nikki Rowe* 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

10/12 vs Mission* 10/19 @ La Joya* 7:30 p.m.

10/25 vs McAllen Memorial* 7 p.m.

11/2 @ McAllen High* 7:30p.m.

7 p.m.

11/8 vs P.S.J.A.* *Denotes district game

Head Coach: Tomas Garcia 7th Yr. 2017 Record: 6-4 (3-3 District) Returning Starters O/D: 4/4 2018 Key Players RB Albert Martinez QB Efren Martinez DE Xavier Monreal LB Jason Martinez ST Returner Joe Martinez

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

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2018 Schedule 9/8

vs. PSJA North

(L)

9/11 @ Nikki Rowe

(L)

9/15 vs Mission

(L)

9/18 @ La Joya

7:30 p.m.

9/22 vs Memorial

12 p.m.

9/25 @ McHi

7:30 p.m.

9/29 vs PSJA

12 p.m.

10/2 @ PSJA North

7:30 p.m.

10/6 vs Nikki Rowe

12 p.m.

10/9 @ Mission

7:30 p.m.

10/13 vs La Joya

12 p.m.

10/16 @ Memorial

7:30 p.m.

10/20 vs McHi

12 p.m.

10/23 @ PSJA

7:30 p.m.

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

2018 La Joya Coyotes Football Team

2018 Schedule 8/31 @ Palmview (W) 39-19 (W) 49-0 9/7 vs Roma 9/14 @ Sharyland (L) 31-7 7 p.m.

9/27 @ P.S.J.A. 10/5vs McAllen Memorial* 7:30 p.m.

10/11 @ McAllen High* 7 p.m.

10/19 vs Juarez-Lincoln* 7:30 p.m.

10/26 @ P.S.J.A. North* 7:30 p.m.

11/2 vs Nikki Rowe* 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

11/9 @ Mission* *Denotes district game

Head Coach: Reuben Farias 3rd Yr. 2017 Record: 5-6 (3-3 District) Returning Starters O/D: 5/6 2018 Key Players QB Juan Rodriguez RB Eddie Villarreal FS Irvin Zamora MLB Alfredo Perez K Sergio Jimenez

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

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2018 Schedule 9/8

@ PSJA

(L)

9/11 vs Memorial

(L)

9/15 @ McHi

(L)

9/18 vs Juarez-Lincoln 7:30 p.m.

9/22 @ PSJA North

12 p.m.

9/25 vs Nikki Rowe

7:30 p.m.

9/29 @ Mission

12 p.m.

10/2 vs PSJA

7:30 p.m.

10/6 @ Memorial

12 p.m.

10/9 vs McHi

7:30 p.m.

10/13 @ Juarez-Lincoln

12 p.m.

10/16 vs PSJA North

7:30 p.m.

10/20 @ Nikki Rowe

12 p.m.

10/23 vs Mission

7:30 p.m.

Head Coach: Tina Martinez

2018 La Joya Lady Coyotes Volleyball Team

HIGH SCHOOL

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Dist.16-5A DIV. I Dist. 16-5A DIV. II

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

PAGE - 8

2018 Mission Eagles Football Team

2018 Schedule 8/31 vs Mission Veterans (W) 24-12 9/7 vs Donna North (W) 56-12 9/13 vs Sharyland Pioneer (L) 21-17 9/27 McAllen Memorial* 7 p.m.

10/5 vs McAllen High* 7:30 p.m.

10/12 @ Juarez-Lincoln* 7:30 p.m.

10/19 vs P.S.J.A. North* 7:30 p.m.

10/26 @ Nikki Rowe* 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

11/2 @ P.S.J.A.* 11/9 vs La Joya* 7:30 p.m. *Denotes district game

Head Coach: Koy Detmer 3rd Yr. 2017 Record: 4-6 (2-4 District) Returning Starters O/D: 5/5 2018 Key Players WR Sebastian Gonzalez RB Horacio Moronta LB Alek Gomez LB Joe Resendez K Rene Rodriguez

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

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2018 Schedule 9/8

@ Memorial

(L)

9/11 vs McHi

(L)

9/15 @ Juarez-Lincoln

(W)

9/18 vs PSJA North

7:30 p.m.

9/22 @ Nikki Rowe

12 p.m.

9/25 @ PSJA

7:30 p.m.

9/29 vs La Joya

12 p.m.

10/2 vs Memorial

7:30 p.m.

10/6 @ McHi

12 p.m.

10/9 vs Juarez-Lincoln 7:30 p.m.

10/13 @ PSJA North

12 p.m.

10/16 vs Nikki Rowe

7:30 p.m.

10/20 vs PSJA

12 p.m.

10/23 (Tue) @ La Joya

7:30 p.m.

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

Quick Look at District 16-5A Division I

With 10 teams in District 16-5A Division I and only four playoff spots up for grabs, there is little room for error. Realignment now has Mission Veterans and Palmview, two teams on different ends of the spectrum, joining Brownsville Lopez, Pace, Porter and Veterans Memorial, Donna, Rio Grande City and PSJA Memorial and Southwest. Mission Veterans is loaded in 2018 and understandably the favorite to win the district, while Palmview is a program rebuilding itself to compete for a spot in the postseason.

four and regional champions.”

Coach Gilpin has built a powerhouse at Mission Veterans known for its high-scoring offense, tenacious defense, and ability to find ways to win games. And with an All-State selection at quarterback, the sky’s the limit for the Patriots.

After putting up video game numbers in 2017 (3,172 passing yards, 1,718 rushing yards, 48 TDs) dual-threat quarterback Landry Gilpin returns in his role as engine of the Patriots offensive attack. Alongside Landry is a Mission Veterans offense that can beat you at any position. With receivers Garcia (1,364 yards, 12 TDs), Gonzaque (missed 2017 with an ACL injury), John Aguilar (659 yards, 4 TDs) and Danny Cantu (592 yards, 10 TDs) holding down running back duties, the Patriots offense will be one of the most exciting to watch on Friday nights.

“I think that our success as an offense is due to the talent of the receivers that I’ve grown up with in my class and the class below us,” Landry Gilpin said. “The people that have been put in position to be with us on the offense have been a blessing. Our receivers don’t drop a lot of balls. They are very athletic, very capable of playing in big games and they don’t shy away from big moments. Putting all of

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that together, we’re capable of doing a lot as a team.”

The Patriots bring back both of their top tacklers from last year’s co-district champion squad in Delgado (139 tackles, 2 INTs) and Joey Garcia (113 tackles, 4 INTs, 3 sacks), giving Mission Veterans the experience and leadership needed to push a team deep into the playoffs.

Mission Veterans is now in the 10team District 16-5A D I and will be facing mostly new opponents. With only one non-district contest before nine straight district games, Mission Veterans is confident they’ll handle being thrown into the fire well.

“The only familiar foe we have is Rio Grande City,” Coach Gilpin said. “That’s a huge district, and as a result, you play only one non-district game and you’re into the fire. So you’ve got to be game ready really fast in this district and we feel confident that we will be.”

Requenez is determined on putting the Lobos back in the promised land of the playoffs.

“What I told the kids after the season was that we had to work hard and make sure that we’re mentally tough,” Requenez said. “We have to keep them motivated. If we work hard, we’ll get back to the promised land. That’s what we’re working on.”

Palmview’s offense is built around the legs of quarterback David Flores (691 total yards, 6 TDs) and Chapa, who lead the rushing attack. David Flores enters with a year of starting experience under his belt after being thrust into the starting lineup last season. While the Lobos went winless in district in 2017, the Palmview offense picked up up at the year’s end by scoring double digits in their last five games.

The Lobo defense is led by All-District selection Freddy Flores and Pena in the secondary, giving Palmview speed on the back end that will be looking for help up front from guys like Garza.

The Palmview Lobos will continue to try to work their way back into playoff contention, but with a 10-team district in 16-5A D I and only four postseason spots up for grabs, there is little room for error.

BIG7

Mission Veterans Memorial Patriots The Mission Veterans Memorial Patriots have qualified for the playoffs six straight years and you can bet the house that ain’t changing in 2018...the only question is “how far will the Patriots go?”

“We’ve advanced into the second round of the playoffs four years in a row.” said Head Coach David Gilpin “That includes a third round appearance two years ago. And our goal is to shatter that this year. People in the Rio Grande Valley don’t talk about what we’re talking about doing. I don’t care what anybody thinks about what I believe we can do this year. I’m talking fifth round this year. I’m talking final

Palmview Lobos Palmview is a program on the rebuild after a 2-8 season in 2017 which saw the Lobos fall in all six of their district games. Unfortunate injury luck kept Palmview from gaining any momentum last year, but it’s a new season, and Head Coach Margarito

Quick Look at District 16-5A Division II

District 16-5A D II brings something for all Valley football fans in the form of old and new rivalries. With traditional powerhouses like Edcouch-Elsa and Mercedes joining Valley View, Cigarroa and Roma in the seven-team district, Sharyland and Pioneer are out to prove they belong in the upper echelon of the Valley’s elite. Sharyland returns a majority of the talent from last year’s co-district champion and area round finalist and are focused on gold balls and a deep playoff run. Pioneer is under new leadership but primed to make it three straight playoff appearances for the Diamondbacks.

Pioneer Diamondbacks The Pioneer Diamondbacks are under new leadership as Head Coach Tom Lee takes over a program that has qualified for the playoffs two years in a row. With senior quarterback Rosales back in the saddle and the potential Marburger, the Diamondbacks pose

SCHOOLS

a threat against who over is lined up across the field as they aim for a third straight year in the playoffs.

No matter who is under center for the Diamondbacks, the team feels comfortable in both quarterback options to get the job done. Rosales (2,928 total yards, 31 TDs) returns to provide Pioneer with a dual-threat option while Marburger, a sophomore, has been groomed to compete at the varsity level. With senior weapons like Cajero (730 yards, 10 TDs) and Perez (344 yards, 4 TDs) lined up at receiver, the Pioneer offense will find a way to create scoring opportunities, regardless.

“I think those seniors we have playing receiver are going to be big for us and for our young receivers, just giving us some experience, some maturity, and I think just being coaches on the field because they’ve been doing it so long,” Lee said. “Those guys are going to be valuable for our quarterback

and young receiving core.”

On the other side of the ball, Pioneer’s front seven will be its strength.

Led by Hernandez and Barrett, the defense is moving to a 3-4 and driven make life hell for opposing offenses.

While the Diamondbacks roll out a young secondary, the pressure created by the help up front could provide a boost to give Pioneer an opportunistic defense.

“The 3-4 is going to be pretty good this year, run-wise and pass-wise,” said Barrett, a six feet four inches tall outside linebacker. “I think we’ll have a good pass rush with everyone in there with their experience.”

The Diamondbacks are talented enough to qualify for a third straight postseason and could push for the top spot in 16-5A DII. They’ll have to fend off Cigarroa, Valley View and Roma, while battling with Sharyland, Edcouch-Elsa and Mercedes for the district crown.

“We know they’re all about winning and they’re great ball clubs, so we’re looking forward to playing them,” said Cajero. “We’re going to take it game by game and punch our ticket to the playoffs and get past that first round.”

Sharyland Rattlers If you’re still sleeping on Sharyland after their performance in co-district title in 2017, you better wake up quick.

The Rattlers are reloaded this year with 12 returning starters who are determined to erase the bitter taste of last year’s triple-overtime second round defeat in the playoffs and prove Sharyland is stronger than ever.

“We use that to show the guys that level of the second round of the playoffs, we’re going to face teams like that,” said Head Coach Ron Adame.

“They saw how close we were to advancing … there were a lot of kids on

See DISTRICT 16-5A DIV. II Pg. 20

SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

PAGE - 11

Wishing you

the Best of Luck This Season!

Ramiro J. Rodriguez, Jr. Robert A Salinas Mayor Pro-Tem Mayor

Jaime Aranda Councilman

Ruben De Leon Councilman

Israel Silva Councilman

Ofelia Peña-Perez Councilwoman

4417 North Shary Rd. • Palmhurst, TX • (956)583-8697 www.cityofpalmhursttx.com

PAGE - 12

SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

PAGE - 13

SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

PAGE - 14

2018 Schedule 8/31 vs La Joya (L) 19-39 9/7 @ Rio Grande City* (W) 37-29 9/14 vs Brownsville Porter*(L) 35-27 7 p.m.

9/20 @ Donna* 9/27 vs P.S.J.A. Southwest* 7 p.m.

10/4 @ Brownsville Pace* 7 p.m.

10/19 @ P.S.J.A. Memorial* 7:30 p.m.

10/26 vs Brownsville Lopez* 7:30 p.m.

11/2 @ Mission Veterans* 7:30 p.m.

11/9 vs Brownsville Veterans* 7:30 p.m. *Denotes district game

Head Coach: Margarito Requenez 5th Year 2017 Record: 2-8 (0-6 District) Returning Starters O/D: 4/4 2018 Key Players DB Freddy Flores RB Mario Chapa QB David Flores DL Armando Garza RB Jalen Ybarra

Good Luck This Season To All La Joya Teams!

Gerardo Perez Mayor

Javier Ramirez Mayor Pro Tem

Joselito Hernandez Councilman

Linda Sarabia Councilwoman

Joel Garcia Councilman

Leo Olivares Interim City Manager

www.cityofpalmview.com

SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

PAGE - 15

2018 Schedule 9/8 @ Sharyland (L) 9/11 vs Pioneer (L) 9/15 @ Mission Veterans (L) 9/18 vs PSJA Memorial 7:30 p.m.

9/22 @ Roma 1 p.m.

9/25 vs Rio Grande City 7:30 p.m.

9/29 @ PSJA Southwest 1 p.m.

10/2 vs Sharyland 7:30 p.m.

10/6 @ Pioneer 1 p.m.

10/9 vs Mission Veterans 7:30 p.m.

10/13 @ PSJA Memorial 1 p.m.

10/16 vs Roma 7:30 p.m.

10/20 @ Rio Grande City 1 p.m.

10/23 vs PSJA Southwest 7:30 p.m.

Head Coach:Marco Iglesias- Cantu

2018 Palmview Lady Lobos Volleyball Team

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

2018 Schedule 8/31 @ Mission (L) 12-24 9/6 @ P.S.J.A. Memorial* (W) 41-10 9/14 vs Brown. Veterans* (W) 45-24 9/20 @ Rio Grande City* 7 p.m.

9/28 vs Brown. Porter* 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

10/12 @ Donna* 10/18 vs P.S.J.A. Southwest* 7 p.m.

10/27 @ Brownsville Pace* 7 p.m.

11/2 vs Palmview* 7:30 p.m.

11/8 @ Brownsville Lopez* 7 p.m. *Denotes district game

Head Coach: David Gilpin 9th Year 2017 Record: 10-2 (7-1 District) Returning Starters O/D: 6/5

2018 Veterans Memorial Patriots Football Team

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

2018 Schedule 9/8 vs Rio Grande City (W) 9/11 @ PSJA Southwest (W) 9/15 vs Palmview (W) 9/18 @ Pioneer 7 p.m.

9/22 vs Sharyland 1 p.m.

9/25 vs PSJA Memorial 7 p.m.

9/29 @ Roma 1 p.m.

10/2 @ Rio Grande City 7 p.m.

10/6 vs PSJA Southwest 1 p.m.

10/9 @ Palmview 7:30 p.m.

10/13 vs Pioneer 1 p.m.

10/16 @ Sharyland 7 p.m.

10/20 @ PSJA Memorial 1 p.m.

10/23 vs Roma 7 p.m.

Head Coach:Diana Lerma

2018 Veterans Memorial Lady PatriotsVolleyball Team

Good Luck To All The Teams!

Alberto Vela, R. Ph. 583-2700 1242 E. Bus. 83, #7 Mission, TX

Fred Moron, R. Ph. 581-5499 2120 E. Griffin Pkwy. Mission, TX

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

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2018 Big 7 Volleyball Outlook Quick Look at District 31-5A

THE

District 31-5A has long been dominated by the Mission Veterans Memorial Lady Patriots, and they’re not looking to let up any time soon. The Lady Patriots are gunning for their fourth straight undefeated district season while traditionally strong programs like the Sharyland Lady Rattlers and Pioneer Lady Diamondbacks aim to dethrone the champs. With the Palmview Lady Lobos now in the mix, they’ll be looking to make some noise of their own in 31-5A as they hunt for their first playoff berth in program history. PSJA Memorial and PSJA Southwest also join arguably the toughest district in Valley volleyball led by the defending district champion Lady Patriots.

Key Players: Sr. OH Jackie Howell, Sr. OH Makenzie Gerlach, Jr. MB Kassandra Lerma, Jr. L Isabela Dominquez

them going, to break school records.”

And if the Lady Patriots can finish another perfect season in 31-5A, Gerlach and Howell will be the first in school history to go all four years unbeaten in district play.

“Makenzie and I would be the first girls to come through going completely undefeated for four years in straight sets through district,” Howell said. “It means a lot being the first and we’re working hard to keep that tradition going.”

After a second round postseason exit a year ago, the Lady Patriots feel they have what it takes to make school history and be one of the last eight teams standing.

“We have a lot of potential to go very far in the playoffs and I’m really looking forward to this season because it’s one of the best teams I’ve played on in my four years,” Gerlach said. “I want to go to the Elite 8, no one in the district or in our school has ever made it that far, so I think it would be great to make it that

far.”

BIG7

Mission Veterans Memorial Lady Patriots Head Coach: Diana Lerma 2017: 16-0 District 31-5A Record District & Bi-district Champions, Area Qualifiers

You come at the Queens, you best not miss. That’s the case in District 31-5A: two shots at the champs--one home, one away. For the last three seasons, no team has been able to defeat the Mission Veterans Lady Patriots in district play, and they’re determined to keep it that way in 2018.

With the return five All-District honorees from a season ago, including 315A’s co-MVP in Howell and the district’s Outstanding Hitter in Gerlach, the Lady Patriots are loaded for the long haul and look to add to their run of 13 district titles in 15 years.

“Being the powerhouse, it’s not just a coincidence that we get a district title,” Coach Lerma said. “The mentality of these girls is to aim higher than what somebody else is, that’s what keeps

Palmview Lady Lobos Head Coach: Margo Iglesias-Cantu 2017: 2-10 District 31-5A Record Sixth Place Key Players: Sr. OH Lori Esqueda, Jr. MH Rebecca Garza, Sr. S Jazmin Pena, So. DS Bianca Fernandez

After dropping down to 5A, the Palmview Lady Lobos are a team looking to make some noise in their new district.

That district, 31-5A, just so happens to be one of the strongest in the RGV, meaning the Lady Lobos will have to up their game if they hope to make program history by qualifying for the postseason.

“That’s our goal as a team this year: we want to make history because ever since La Joya split, none of the La Joya

SCHOOLS

See DISTRICT 31-5A Pg. 19

The Best of Luck To All La Joya Teams!

facebook.com/ cityofpenitas

MAYOR PRO-TEM

COUNCILMAN

ALEX GUAJARDO JOSE ROEL FLORES

MAYOR

RIGO LOPEZ

COUNCILMAN

COUNCILMAN

FELIPE QUINTANILLA RAMIRO LOYA

SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION from pg. 18

DISTRICT 31-5A

schools have made the playoffs, so that’s our main goal this year,” said Coach Iglesias-Cantu.

In her second year as head coach of the Lady Lobos, Iglesias-Cantu has high expectations for her team but knows they have to put in the work to reach their goal.

“I strongly believe in them,” said Coach Iglesias-Cantu. “We have to work on our communication and working together, if we can get that down, then we can reach our goal. We are in a tough district, but we’re ready to step up to the plate.

We have to be on every single game.”

Pena, a senior setter on the team, plays a key role on the team in setting up Esqueda and Garza around the net, and they’re excited for the challenge the new district brings.

“I’m very excited for the new district,” Pena said. “These schools are good and I believe in my team so we’re going to give it everything we’ve got.”

Look for Palmview to improve on their 2-10 district record, but they’ll have to work together to find themselves amongst 31-5A playoff regulars like Mission Veterans, Sharyland and Pioneer.

Pioneer Lady Diamondbacks Head Coach: Laura Cavazos 2017: 12-4 District 31-5A Record Second Place, Bi-district Champions, Area Qualifiers

Sr. MH Daizy Coronado, Sr. OH Jessica Zarate, Jr. MH/OH Daniela Alvarez, Jr. L Shelby Cavazos, Sr., S. Lauren Brechler Since the school opened four years ago, the Pioneer Lady Diamondbacks have established a winning tradition on the volleyball court. With four straight playoff appearances resulting in four Bi-district championships, the Lady Diamondbacks are focused on keeping up those winning ways.

“We’re working every day in the gym to improve and get better and hopefully we can make a run for the playoffs again,” said Coach Cavazos. “Every year we’ve made the playoffs and that’s an expectation we have in our gym, it’s to continue to make history and continue to work hard to get there.”

The Lady Diamondbacks lost four core players from last year’s team, but stepping up to assume the leadership roles are returning middle hitters Coronado and Alvarez.

“Our middles are coming in with that expectation knowing that they have to take over that role and they have some shoes to fill,” Cavazos continued. “Daizy is taking on that leadership role, and then we have Daniela, they’re stepping up in those positions.”

A season ago, Pioneer picked up a

Bi-district championship by beating Edcouch-Elsa in round one before falling at the hands of San Antonio McCollum in the Area round. While the Lady Diamondbacks are a young team, they feel they have the foundation to go for five playoff appearances in five years.

“We’re young and we have some very talented people,” Cavazos said. “We have a good foundation set right now, so we’re finding a good balance and getting chemistry since that core left. We’re off to a good start, we have a lot of good energy from our younger players so we’re excited where we’re headed.”

While the Pioneer lost key players from a season ago, the Lady Diamondbacks will find a way to rally and rack up wins to contend for a postseason berth out of District 31-5A. Sharyland Lady Rattlers Head Coach: Raul Castillo 2017: 11-5 District 31-5A Record Fourth Place, Bi-district Champions, Area Qualifiers Key Players: Sr. OH Estefania Hinojosa, Sr. S Aydee Hinojosa, Jr. OH Tristen Maddox, Jr. S Paola Gonzalez Playoffs have become the norm for the Sharyland Lady Rattlers. A team with a tradition of winning and strong play on the court, the Lady Rattlers are aiming for the top spot in District 31-5A. “We always shoot for the top,” said

PAGE - 19 Coach Castillo. “I know Mission Vets is a stacked team, but that’s the team you want to take down whether it’s in a tournament, whether it be in district, where ever it may be. If you’re up there competing with them, you’re doing something good.”

And Lady Rattlers can compete with the best the Valley has to offer. The return of three All-District selections gives Sharyland the talent and experience needed in order to take down the top dogs like Mission Veterans.

Outside hitter Estefania Hinojosa is the team’s go-to player, and when she goes, so does the team. At 5 feet 11 inches, her size and athleticism up front makes the Lady Rattlers a constant threat. Combined with the play of Maddox and setter Aydee Hinojosa, this year’s group of Lady Rattlers is getting better every day to make a run in District 31-5A and the postseason.

“Everytime we play I see our team getting better,” Estefania Hinojosa said.

“Throughout these four years I have learned so much and I want to put it all together so my senior year will be my best year.”

The Sharyland Lady Rattlers are one of the strongest teams in District 31-5A and should find themselves improving on last year’s fourth place squad that ended the season with a Bi-district championship.

Quick Look at District 30-6A

The playoff picture in District 30-6A has looked the same each of the last four years: McHi, Memorial and Nikki Rowe battling for the top three spots with the Mission Lady Eagles claiming the fourth and final postseason berth.

Now that Palmview has made the move to 5A, it’s up to the Juarez-Lincoln Lady Huskies and La Joya Lady Coyotes to shake things up. The McAllen schools should own three of the top spots again in 2018 when it’s all said and done, but the race for fourth in District 30-6A should be a photo-finish with the addition of PSJA and PSJA North to the district.

Juarez-Lincoln Lady Huskies Head Coach: Sylvia Rodriguez 2017: 0-12 District 30-6A Record Seventh Place Key Players: Sr. MB Yolanda Hernandez, Sr. L Ericka Hernandez, Sr. OH Leah Gallegos, Jr. S Jessyca Alvarez If you look at this year’s Juarez-Lincoln Lady Huskies, you’d never know they failed to win a district game in 2017.

That’s because this season, the Lady Huskies have talent, along with the be-

lief and confidence that they are good enough to earn one of the four playoff spots up for grabs, which would be a first in school history.

“We’ve been working hard, I have very high expectations for them,” said Coach Rodriguez. “We’re doing a lot better than last year as far as wins. Last year we only had one or two wins before district started, and this year we already have more than six wins. We’re just going to continue working hard and doing whatever it takes. Three of these girls experienced going to playoffs with basketball which was the first time in school history, so they’re motivated to do the same for volleyball.”

The hunger for the playoffs has the Lady Huskies eager for the start of district play. They know 30-6A is tough going against the McAllen schools and will bring ups and downs, but that’s when they must come together.

“I think we have a lot of strong hitters and our back row is loaded, but we have to come together,” said senior libero Ericka Hernandez. “It’s ok if we fall down but we have to pick each other up as a team. We’re in a tough district and we have to take advantage of their off-days and come together as a team.”

The Lady Huskies are led on the court by seven varsity returners, including middle blocker Yolanda Hernandez, a second team All-District selection a year ago. Playing next to Leah Gallegos with Ericka Hernandez setting them up, the Lady Huskies feel they have the experience and ability to qualify for the postseason for the first time in 2018.

“We have to pick each other up, that’s how the team works,” said Yolanda Hernandez. “We want to make it to playoffs, that’s our main goal this year. We need more practice, but we have a lot of potential.”

La Joya Lady Coyotes Head Coach: Diamantina Martinez 2017: 5-7 District 30-6A Record Tied for Fourth Place, Lost play-in game Key Player: Sr. S Angie Rodas

The La Joya Lady Coyotes scratched and clawed down to the last day of district play in 2017. After finishing 30-6A action with a 5-7 record, the same as Mission, the Lady Coyotes were forced into an extra game to decide the fourthplace team and playoff qualifier. The Lady Coyotes fell short of ending a 20-

year playoff drought, losing to Mission in three sets, 25-12, 25-13, 25-23.

Being on the verge of ending the streak last season has this year’s Lady Coyotes motivated to be the team to break the trend. Led by setter and team captain Angie Rodas, La Joya is a team on the come up under second year Head Coach Diamantina Martinez.

Although they lost a talented senior group, the Lady Coyotes could find themselves in playoff contention at the end of the year if they take care of business and beat the teams they’re supposed to.

Mission Lady Eagles Head Coach: Edna Clemons 2017: 5-7 District 30-6A Record Fourth Place, Bi-district qualifiers Key Players: Jr. L Jazmine Sustaita, Jr. MB/OH Ariel Sanchez In each of the past four seasons, the Mission Lady Eagles have fought their way into the playoffs. Last year, Mission finished with a 5-7 district record, tied with La Joya, but prevailed in a play-in game to punch their ticket.

Entering the 2018 season, the Lady Ea-

See DISTRICT 30-6A Pg. 20

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

2018 Schedule

8/31 vs Brown .Pace (W) 20-17 9/7 @ McAllen Memorial (L) 21-27 9/14 vs La Joya (L) 31-7 9/21 @ Brownsville Hanna 7:30 p.m.

9/28 vs Laredo Cigarroa* 7:30 p.m.

10/5 @ Roma* 7:30 p.m.

10/12 vs Edcouch-Elsa* 7:30 p.m.

10/19 @ Sharyland Pioneer* 7:30 p.m.

10/26 vs Mercedes* 7:30 p.m.

11/2 @ Valley View* 7:30 p.m. *Denotes district game

Head Coach: Ron Adame 7th Year 2017 Record: 9-3 (7-1 District) Returning Starters O/D: 8/4

2018 Sharyland Rattlers Football Team

Good Luck to All Sharyland Teams!

from pg. 19

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Justin Felkner D.D.S.

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DISTRICT 30-6A

gles are focused on keeping the streak alive while fending off the rest of the competition District 30-6A has to offer.

Mission returns talent at the top with District 30-6A’s Outstanding Libero, Jazmine Sustaita back along with First Team All-District member Ariel Sanchez.

The quickness of Sustaita on the back line combined with Sanchez controlling

from pg. 10

2018 Key Players QB Edgar Longoria REC Ruben Davila LB Javo Lopez DE Brandon Mireles K/P Oscar Valdez

play at the net provides the Lady Eagles and Head Coach Edna Clemons with a solid attack.

While the district has been controlled up top by the McAllen teams, look for Mission to push those three schools while fighting for a fifth straight playoff appearance in 2018.

DISTRICT 16-5A DIV. II

our team that are returners that experienced that and know what that feeling is of two playoff games and being successful in the playoffs.”

The return of senior dual-threat quarterback Edgar Longoria (2,291 total yards, 32 TDs) spearheads the Sharyland attack and he’ll have a number of weapons at the skill positions to keep opponents guessing. Receivers Davila, Tamez and Adrian Solis combined for 17 touchdown catches a year ago, and with running back Danny Escalera (477 total yards), the Rattlers should be amongst the Valley’s top offenses once again in 2018.

On the defensive side of the ball, Lopez (109 tackles, 5 sacks) anchors the middle of a fast-to-the-ball unit focused on improving off of last year. The Rattlers will be tough to deal with their size

on the defensive line led by Mireles (34 tackles, 3 sacks) putting pressure on opposing offenses.

“I think we’re going to do a much better job than last year,” Lopez said. “We’re going to have a solid defense; we can stop the run, stop the pass, and I don’t think there’s going to be that many points scored against us.”

The Rattlers are built for another run at a district title, but will have to get through tough opponents like Edcouch-Elsa, Mercedes, and rival Pioneer in order to wear the crown, a task the Rattlers are up to.

“Sharyland has tradition and we want to keep that tradition running,” Lopez said. “We run this town and we’re going to run the Valley.”

SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

2018 Schedule

9/8 vs Palmview (W) 9/11 @ Roma (W) (W) .9/15 @ Pioneer .9/18 vs Rio Grande City 7 p.m.

9/22 @ Mission Veterans 1 p.m.

9/25 vs PSJA Southwest 7 p.m.

9/29 @ PSJA Memorial 1 p.m.

7:30 p.m. .10/2 @ Palmview 10/6 vs Roma 1 p.m.

10/9 vs Pioneer 7 p.m. r 10/13 @ Rio Grande City 1 p.m.

10/16 vs Mission Veterans 7 p.m.

10/20 @ PSJA Southwest 1 p.m.

10/23 vs PSJA Memorial 7 p.m.

Head Coach:Raul Castillo

2018 Sharyland Lady Rattlers Volleyball Team

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

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2018 Schedule

2018 Pioneer Diamondbacks Football Team

8/31 @ Harlingen (L) 16-64 9/7 vs Juarez-Lincoln (W) 31-29 9/13 @ Mission (L) 17-21 9/21 vs Brownsville Rivera 7:30 p.m.

10/5 vs Mercedes* 7:30 p.m.

10/12 @ Valley View* 7:30 p.m.

10/19 vs Sharyland* 7:30 p.m.

10/25 @ Laredo Cigarroa* 7 p.m.

11/2 vs Roma* 7:30 p.m.

11/9 @ Edcouch-Elsa* 7:30 p.m. *Denotes district game

Head Coach: Tom Lee 1st Year 2017 Record: 6-5 (5-3 District) Returning Starters O/D: 3/3 2018 Key Players WR Roel Cajero ILB David Rossow DE Alonso Ibarra DE Derek Lopez WR Diego Perez

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION

2018 Schedule 9/8 vs PSJA Southwest 9/11 @ Palmview 9/15 vs Sharyland 9/18 vs Mission Veterans 9/22 @ PSJA Memorial 9/25 vs Roma 9/29 @ Rio Grande City 10/2 @ PSJA Southwest 10/6 vs Palmview 10/9 @ Sharyland 10/13 @ Mission Veterans 10/16 vs PSJA Memorial 10/20 @ Roma 10/23 vs Rio Grande City

(W) (W) (L) 7 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

Head Coach:Laura Cavazos

2018 Pioneer Lady Diamondbacks Volleyball Team

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SPORTS PREVIEW - 2018 FALL EDITION