Digital Weekly Issue 45, May 20, 2016

MAY 20, 2016 DIGITAL WEEKLY 45

WOODCREEK-ROSEVILLE - BASEBALL - SENIOR The Timberwolves’ outfielder went 2-for-3 with a run and an RBI as fifth-seeded Woodcreek claimed a 10-3 victory over Napa in a Sac-Joaquin Section Division I North playoff opener. The two-hit game was Rotteveel’s fifth consecutive multi-hit game and set up an elimination game against No. 4 seed Sheldon-Sacramento.

During Rotteveel’s five-game hot streak at the plate, he was 10-for-16 with three runs and five RBI, which raised his season average to an even .400. Through May 17, Rotteveel had 34 hits, 18 runs, 26 RBI and 10 stolen bases. His hit and RBI totals led the team. He also carried a .476 on base percentage and has struck out just nine times in 104 plate appearances. Woodcreek entered its May 19 playoff game against Sheldon with a 21-7 record on the season.

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James K. Leash photo

Roseville earns hosting rights for ASA’s 14U Fastpitch Western Nationals For the third consecutive year the Greater Sacramento Softball Association and Placer Valley Tourism will be hosting a major youth event. This year they were awarded the ASA/USA 14U Class A Girls Fastpitch Western National Championships.

This week-long event will take place July 25-31at fields in both Roseville and Lincoln and is expected to bring 50 teams or more to Placer Valley.

“In somewhat of a surprise move, the ASA National Office in Oklahoma City moved the 2016 ASA/USA 14U Fastpitch Western Nationals from Colorado to Roseville,” said Jeff Dubchansky, Com-

USA SWIMMING SPLASHDOWN The USA Swimming Speedo Champions Series is making a scheduled stop in Placer Valley when, for the first time ever, they will hold the Summer CA-NV Sectional Championships right here in Roseville.

This series highlights some of the best swimming talent in the nation and is broken into four zones: Eastern, Western, Southern and Central. Each zone has approximately five stops.

In past years, this sectional has been held at locations such as Santa Clarita and Clovis. This year, Roseville’s own California Capital Aquatics (CCA) will host this exciting event at the Roseville Aquatics

missioner of GSSA. “This was supposed to be a quiet National Championship year for our committee.”

This move was largely due to the many previous successes the region has had in hosting ASA National Championship events and, according to Dubchansky, the strong support GSSA receives from PVT. The geographic region for this championship is made up of three ASA territories and will bring teams from all over California as well as many out-of-state teams from Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Nevada, Utah, Idaho and possibly even Hawaii. The teams competing must be registered as “A” teams

Complex (RAC) from July 21-24 for the four-day pool competition. There will also be an Open Water Event on July 25 that at Granite Beach on Folsom Lake. This is a 5K event that is open to all sectional entrants and swimmers who meet the listed time standards.

More than 600 swimmers are expected to attend, and will be coming from all over California and Nevada. The format is trial/finals with the trials beginning at 9 a.m. and the finals begin at 5 p.m.

Denna Culpepper, Executive Director for Sierra Nevada Swimming, explained swimmers are allowed to compete in no more than six events and there is no age limit for the meet, only qualifying standards.

“Many college swimmers will be competing at

and participate in their local ASA Association Championships in order to be eligible for this event.

GSSA plans to kick off the championships with an opening ceremonies at Woodcreek High School on July 25. The teams will gather for a day of fun activities that include carnival games, parade of teams, costume contests, guest speakers and more.

New for this year, the games will be streamed live with GameChanger. Now fans will be able to follow their team throughout the tournament via the live scores, play-by-play, stats/spray charts and recap stories. With nearly one thousand youth athletes expected to compete, it is going to be one amazing week of softball. ✪

the meet since they are usually back in their hometowns training over the summer with their USA Swimming club,” added Culpepper.

There will be more than 50 volunteer officials from the California-Nevada region to officiate the meet and CCA will have as many as 200 volunteers to help run the meet over the course of the competition. There will also be a Speedo representative on deck during the entire meet as well as an authorized Speedo merchandise dealer.

Placer Valley Tourism is thrilled to help host such an incredible event. The RAC is located at 3051 Woodcreek Oaks Blvd. So mark your calendars and come watch these top-notch swimmers make a serious splash. ✪ — Copy, photos provided by Placer Valley Tourism

S

imilar to the Greeks ending their war with Troy by sending in the Trojan Horse, the Oak Ridge baseball team quietly earned the No. 1 seed in the Sac-Joaquin Section Division I playoffs by using its own version of a Trojan horse.

The modern horse is much smaller than the version left at Troy’s city gate, but 5-foot,11 inch, 175-pound Trenton Denholm has been huge for the Sierra Foothill League champions. Denholm allowed just one earned run over his first 56.2 innings of work while compiling a 9-0 record and one save to go with his miniscule 0.12 ERA. The junior right-hander also struck out 62 batters while leading the Trojans to a 21-5 overall mark that included a 15-3 record in league play.

“He’s a bulldog on the mound,” Oak Ridge head coach Todd Melton said of his ace. “We thought that he would be good moving him from last year’s closer to our top starter this year, and he is just a big-time competitor.”

Denholm has also contributed a .338 batting average, 26 hits and 15 RBI at the plate, but his biggest contribution may be the confidence he brings to the rest of the very capable Trojans’ roster.

“Most teams are confident behind their No. 1 guy, but I think our team gets an even bigger boost from him,” Melton said.

The veteran coach is quick to point out a deep roster filled with talent that has made the loss of 13 graduating seniors from the 2015 team a distant memory. Some players have assumed larger roles while others have thrived when given their first opportunity to prove themselves at the varsity level.

The senior trio of John Mook, Billy Martina and Brendan Galbreath have anchored a solid infield and provided valuable leadership to a team that has gotten stronger as the season has worn on. Mook leads the team with a .429 average and 30 hits; Martina can play either position on the left side of the infield and is batting .380 with 27 hits and 15 RBI; Galbreath has stepped up in his new role as the No. 1 catcher and contributed a team-high 21 RBI. As a junior, Galbreath was third on the depth chart at catcher behind seniors Jake Hathaway and Logan Denholm. With summer ball and preseason weight training, though, the senior backstop has proven to be a weapon both behind the plate and in the batter’s box.

“He just didn’t have the opportunity last year during games, but he got bullpen work and got reps during the summer that set him up for success,” Melton said.

One advantage Galbreath and the rest of the Trojans have had is access to an elite strength and conditioning program on campus. The school’s Performance Training Center offers a year-round program run by a team of professional strength and conditioning professionals to get Oak Ridge athletes, including the baseball team, in top condition for their seasons.

“It really started for us in the weight room,” Melton said of his team’s strong run to the playoffs. “Everyone bought in, and our pitchers in particular are able to recover well and have great bounce-back ability.”

John Cross, another junior right-hander, has shared the bulk of the workload on the mound as the No. 2 hurler and boasts a 6-1 record, 1.29 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 43.1 innings pitched. Tyler Condie moved into the rotation late in the season and his two earned runs allowed in 20.1 innings gives Melton the invaluable third starter or long reliever that is so vital in the postseason. Add in senior left-hander Luke Johnson and junior pitchers Nolan Dreisbach, Robert Gasser and Brady Rodriguez, and depth on the mound is a strength for what the Trojans hope is a deep playoff run.

It’s a playoff run made possible by the quiet determination of a team that was somewhat under the radar while Delta League powers such as Davis, Jesuit-Carmichael, Sheldon-Sacramento and defending SJS champion Elk Grove took turns in the Div. I spotlight. Oak Ridge rode a convincing sweep of SFL-rival Woodcreek-Roseville to win a somewhat overshadowed league.

“I think that maybe the SFL gets overlooked a little bit,” Melton said. “We get more caught up in our league and honestly I didn’t keep up with other teams and leagues until a couple of weeks ago.

“Div. I has always been very deep, though, and there are half a dozen or more teams that can win it. It’s all about who gets hot in

STORY BY JIM McCUE>\> >Ê > > ?>

Senior pitcher Landon Mitchell has helped lead Vista de Lago-Folsom to a 22-win campaign through May 17 and the top seed in the SJS Division III bracket.

Records through May 18 1. (1)

— De La Salle-Concord

20-3

2. (3)

▲ Serra-San Mateo

25-5-1

3. (2)

▼ St. Francis-Mountain View 23-8

4. (5)

▲ Elk Grove

20-8

5. (6)

▲ Jesuit-Carmichael

22-7

6. (7)

▲ Davis

21-7

7. (4)

▼ Heritage-Brentwood

18-4

8. (10)

▲ Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills 21-5

9. (11)

▲ Acalanes-Lafayette

21-2

10. (9)

▼ Bellarmine-San Jose

20-10

11. (NR) ▲ Valley Christian-San Jose 16-14 12. (8)

▼ Palo Alto

23-6-1

13. (12) ▼ Vintage-Napa

18-8-1

14. (16) ▲ Casa Grande-Petaluma

19-5

15. (18) ▲ Maria Carrillo-Santa Rosa 17-8 16. (NR) ▲ Woodcreek-Roseville

21-7

17. (20) ▲ Marin Catholic-Kentfield

20-4

18. (NR) ▲ Tracy

22-7

19. (17) ▼ Redwood-Larkspur

19-5

20. (19) ▼ Archbishop Mitty-San Jose 15-13 DROPPED OUT: No. 13 St. Mary’s-Stockton, No. 14 Los Gatos, No. 15 Sacred Heart Cathedral-S.F. BIGGEST MOVERS: With the exception of the No. 1 Spartans, it was a complete re-shuffle of the deck. The biggest movers were three formerly-ranked teams which re-enter the fray: No. 11 Valley Christian-San Jose, No. 16 Woodcreek and No. 18 Tracy.

the playoffs.”

And if the Trojans are the last hot team standing at the end of the season, it will not be a surprise.

NEW CONTENDERS The top seeds in Division II and III belong to two somewhat surprising contenders seeking the first SJS titles for their respective programs. Bella Vista-Fair Oaks (18-8 through May 17) and Vista del Lago-Folsom (22-3-1) won their league titles and earned No. 1 seeds for the postseason.

The Broncos appeared in back-to-back section finals in 2006 (Div. II) and 2007 (Div. III), but came away without a banner both times. This season, senior first baseman Bobby Bennett has led the resurgence with a .429 batting average, 33 hits and 15 RBI while junior Lucas Palmer has a team-high 16 RBI while batting .308.

Bella Vista’s one-two pitching punch comes in the form of senior southpaw Aaron Lee (8-0, 0.89 ERA) and junior righty Jacob Warren (5-1, 1.47 ERA). Seven-year Broncos coach Greg Olsen is seeking his fifth campaign with 19 or more wins. A four-win postseason would give Bella Vista its highest win total since the 2006-07 section finals runs, and more importantly, its first SJS baseball championship.

Vista del Lago played in the 2014 Division IV final against Manteca, but were quickly dispatched in last year’s postseason. Senior Landon Mitchell has led the Eagles to coach Scott Seffens’ fifth consecutive 20-win season.

A title run would give the program its best record in the school’s brief history. Mitchell leads the team with a .493 batting average and has 35 hits and 25 RBI on offense to go with a 5-1 record and 2.02 ERA on the mound.

Captains Patrick Gaffney (8-1, 2.35 ERA, 49 K in 44.2 IP), Josh Winkler (.482, 41 hits, 35 runs; 5-1, 2.50 ERA, 50 K in 42 IP), Michael Nelsen (.425, 4 HR, 30 RBI) and Brent Schaeffer (.354, 27 runs, 28 hits) have given Vista del Lago outstanding balance in the field and at the plate. ✪

Vista del Lago pitcher and infielder Josh Winkler has been a major impact player for the Eagles.

Throgh May 17 he was hitting .482 wtih 35 runs scored, and had a 5-1 record with a 2.50 ERA on the mound.

SOFTBALL NOTES

Rock & Fire Our quick look at the top three divisions as the NCS Softball playoffs near go time

Records through May 18

In last week’s Digital Weekly, we offered a quickglance preview of the North Coast Section baseball playoffs for the top three divisions. This week, it’s softball’s turn. The NCS brackets will be drawn up on May 22 and games begin May 24. Here’s who we think should be considered the title favorites and potential bracket-busting dark horses.

1. (3)

▲ Pioneer-San Jose

23-2

2. (2)

— East Union-Manteca

22-1

3. (4)

▲ Sheldon-Sacramento

25-2

4. (1)

▼ Amador Valley-Pleasanton 19-4

DIVISION I

5. (5)

— Alhambra-Martinez

20-2

6. (7)

▲ Foothill-Pleasanton

18-2

7. (8)

▲ Oakdale

20-1

8. (6)

▼ Heritage-Brentwood

16-3

9. (11)

▲ Newark Memorial

19-4

13. (17) ▲ Freedom-Oakley

14-3

14. (10) ▼ Carlmont-Belmont

22-4

15. (19) ▲ San Benito-Hollister

23-3

16. (16) — Benicia

19-5

17. (18) ▲ Woodcreek-Roseville

17-5

18. (15) ▼ Mt. Pleasant-San Jose

17-5

Favorite — Despite its back-to-back East Bay Athletic League hiccup losses to Livermore and CarondeletConcord, this remains Amador Valley-Pleasanton’s title to lose. The defending-champion Dons recovered from their mini-slide by defeating cross-town rival Foothill 3-1 in the two teams’ regular season finale on May 19.

Even though they finished with identical 12-2 records in league, the win clinched the EBAL title outright for Amador Valley since they won both meetings against the Falcons. As long as Amador Valley has Danielle Willaims in the circle (she struck out 16 in the season finale), they will remain the team to beat in Div. I. Dark Horse — Freedom-Oakley, which won six of seven Div. I titles from 2002-08, could be returning to prominence. The Falcons enter the postseason having won seven in a row, including a 3-0 win over Heritage-Brentwood that clinched a Bay Valley Athletic League co-championship.

19. (20) ▲ Bear River-Grass Valley

25-2

DIVISION II

10. (12) ▲ Castro Valley

19-4

11. (9)

20-3

▼ Rocklin

12. (13) ▲ Archbishop Mitty-San Jose 18-4

20. (NR) ▲ Del Campo-Fair Oaks 18-5 DROPPED OUT: No. 14 Vanden-Fairfield BIGGEST MOVERS: Perhaps not the biggest mover, but the most important was PioneerSan Jose taking over the top spot while Amador Valley dropped to No. 4 after two upset losses in East Bay Athletic League play.

Freedom took a four-spot jump to No. 13 after defeating Heritage.

Favorite — Alhambra-Martinez may be the biggest no-brainer favorite for any division. The Bulldogs go into the postseaon having won 11 straight and are scoring runs like no other team in the section.

Alhambra is hitting .440 as a team with 48 doubles, 17 triples and 23 home runs. Second baseman Karlee Sparacino, pictured right, leads the offensive juggernaut with seven home runs and 53 RBI. The Bulldogs outscored opponents 268-47 over their 23 regular season games. They haven’t lost to an NCS or a Div. II opponent all season.

Dark Horse — With how well Alhambra is playing, the dark horse feels like it could be any other team in the field. We’d circle Newark Memorial and Concord as teams to keep an eye one. Both teams come into the postseason with double-digit winning streaks, 14 straight for the Cougars and 10 in a row for the

Minutemen.

DIVISION III Favorite — This divisions feels like it could be wide open. But since we’re forcing ourself to pick a frontrunner here, we’re going with Bishop O’DowdOakland. The Dragons hit .369 as a team behind sophomore slugger Frankie Hammoude (.444, seven triples, five home runs and 25 RBI through her first 19 games). Bishop O’Dowd finished the regular season with an overall record of 19-4, and three of those losses were to Div. I teams which have been ranked in the SportStars NorCal Top 20 all season (Amador Valley once and Castro Valley twice).

Dark Horse — Because Pinole Valley and AnalySebastopol will likely be top seeds along with Bishop O’Dowd, neither will qualify as a true dark horse.

So with that said, we say keep an eye on San MarinNovato. The Mustangs finished the season on a roll that included a 4-1 win over a very good RedwoodLarkspur team. The roster is senior-heavy too, which matters in the playoffs. ✪ — Chace Bryson

FLASH FLOOD Maxime Rooney of Granada-Livermore

Several records were under assault at the NCS & CCS Swim Championships

C

lovis High will play host to the second installment of the CIF Swimming and Diving Championships on May 20-21, but many of the Bay Area’s fastest swimmers will skip the event as they prepare for the U.S. Olympic Trials in late June.

That meant that May 14-15 was the last short course hurrah for many — and they weren’t going to waste it.

The North Coast Section Championships saw four girls records fall and three boys records. One of those boys records was accomplished in a national-record time by Granada-Livermore star Maxime Rooney. The University of Florida-bound senior won the 200-yard freestyle final in 1 minute, 33.7 seconds. The time set a national high school record that would stand for only a handful of hours. Santa Margarita-Rancho Santa Margarita swimmer Grant Shouls won the Southern Section 200 freestyle final in 1:33.26 later that night. Shouls owns the overall and private school record with the time, and Rooney’s swim remains the public schools record.

In addition to his 200 freestyle success, Rooney also set new NCS marks in the 100 freestyle and 100 butterfly. He will graduate as the NCS record holder in four individual events and one relay.

Madelyn Murphy of Carondelet-Concord had an equally dominant weekend on the girls side. She set NCS records all four times she was in the pool during the May 14 finals. She won both of her invididual events, the 50 freestyle and 100 butterfly, in record times. The 50 freestyle record had stood since 2009, previously set by Las Lomas-Walnut Creek standout Kasey Carlson. Murphy also swam the anchor leg to Carondelet’s record-setting 200 medley relay finish, and she closed her meet by setting the 100 freestyle record on the opening leg of Carondelet’s 400

freestyle relay victory.

Like Rooney, the Cal-bound Murphy closes her high school career with her name next to five NCS records. She was also part of Carondelet’s record-winning 400 freestyle relay team in 2013.

While one great Granada swimmer was closing out his career in grand style, another was announcing her presence with authority. Matadors freshman Miranda Heckman won both the 200 and 500 freestyles.

The Central Coast Section meet didn’t feature as many record-breaking swims, but the meet’s most incredible record was finally snapped. The Bellarmine-San Jose boys’ record of 31-straight CCS titles ended in a 242-231 nail-biter to Gunn-Palo Alto.

Even more dramatic, the outcome hinged on the meet’s final event — the 400 freestyle relay. Bellarmine had the fastest seed time from the trials the day before, and Gunn had the second-fastest. Led in the back half of the relay by Michael Lincoln and Joao Ama, Gunn took first just two one-hundredths of a second ahead of Palo Alto, as Bellarmine finished third.

“We were confident,’’ Lincoln told the San Jose Mercury News after the race.

“We wanted to take that opportunity. Even if we lost, that would just mean 32 (straight) for Bellarmine. But if we won, it would be number one for Gunn. We’re just so happy.’’

Palo Alto notched the girls team title, led by sophomore Grace Zhao who set a CCS-record in the 100 breastroke (1:00.96). Among the double-winners at the meet were defending state champions Albert Gwo of Los Altos (50 and 100 freestyle) and Xiangfei Xie of Saratoga (200 individual medley, 100 butterfly), both of whom are headed to Cal. ✪ — Chace Bryson

I

t is very rare to see someone thrive in two sports at once. Yet, even as twosport, high school athletes go, Alex Javorski might be one of a kind.

Javorski was a seventh grader, looking for his passion, trying to find something to commit to and be great at. He felt participating in Boy Scouts, his main extracurricular, just wasn’t his bread and butter. When he discovered some coupons for a fencing academy, he decided to give it a shot.

That shot eventually led to him winning the North American Cup, taking two top 10 finishes in the USA Fencing Summer Nationals, and scoring a spot on the international fencing team for teens two years later.

It also led him to the Fremont High badminton team.

Alex’s fencing career started off at The Fencing Center in San Jose. He immediately fell in love with the sport, and eventually moved on to a more competitive club called the Academy of Fencing. From there, his career took off. Alex went on to win the North American Cup and placed in several other national fencing competitions. After qualifying for the Cadet National Team, Alex was most recently ranked fourth in the nation among fencers under 17 years of age. He qualified to compete internationally against the best in the world, placing top 20 on two occasions. At the age of 15, Alex Javorski was already showing the fencing world that he would be a force to be reckoned with going forward.

With fencing not a high school sport, Alex looked for another sport through which he could utilize his athleticism and represent Fremont High. His freshman year, Alex went to watch many of his twin brother’s varsity badminton matches, and it was love at first sight.

“When I walked in and actually sat down and watched the varsity team play and rally against the opposing school, I saw the grace and beauty behind the sport,” Javorski said. “I started instantly when I got back home watching videos and watching matches of the best players out there, which convinced me even more that badminton is a sport that I want to be obsessed with.”

The next year, Alex decided to go out for the Fremont badminton team.

While he did not want to let it displace the importance of fencing in his life, Alex was eager to try something new. However, the fear of not making the team his sophomore year stuck in his head as he walked into tryouts, and Alex began to doubt himself.

“Even though I took lessons and started taking classes to catch up and stay competitive, I was not too sure whether I would even make (junior varsity),” he said.

When tryouts ended and the teams were announced, Alex realized his fears were for nothing. The fourth best youth fencer in the nation had made the varsity badminton team as a first-year player.

With confidence coursing through his veins, Alex went on to have a very successful season. He found that in many ways, he was able to apply his newly found skills into his main passion of fencing.

“When I would fence, the footwork in badminton made me stay more compact, so my actions and steps were much more explosive, which surprises my opponents,” Javorski said.

Apart from the fundamentals and skills both sports require, Alex also found that badminton and fencing “encourage technique and individuality,” and that he was able to express himself through both.

“The work that we put in during practice, the things we learn from our coaches, can all be seen when we step out on that court and start competing,” he said.

“There’s no coach to help me during the match. ... It’s just me applying what I have learned and enjoying the results.”

Fremont badminton coach Geoff Wen has seen the advantages Alex posseses on the badminton court as a result of his fencing experience.

“He’s extremely flexible, and by being that nimble, the shots that are more difficult for beginners because of the lack of range are easy for him to make,” Wen said.

“He has a good attitude and is always looking for ways to get better, which makes him easy to coach.”

Fellow teammate Chris Zhu said Javorski’s energy and drive had a great influence on the team.

“He’s very dedicated to the badminton community and wants to do everything he can to give back to the team,” Zhu said. This effect that Javorski has on his teammates has contributed to both his AcademyOfFencingMasters.com personal success and the success of the team.

Alex was eventually called upon by his coaches to represent Fremont in the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League Finals, a huge accomplishment for a firstyear player.

Moving forward, Javorski intends to continue both fencing and playing badminton at a high level. In the future, he wants to become a coach for both sports.

“It will be tough to be a dedicated coach for two different sports,” he said, “but I believe that my hard work and the experience that I would gain from both sports will help me see how to train my athletes in new efficient ways.”

All of this because he spotted a fencing coupon. ✪

MASTERS at play

On May 16, the top golfers in the Sac-Joaquin Section returned to The Reserve at Spanos Park golf course, the annual host of the SJS Masters Tournament. Davis claimed the team championship by 10 strokes over Lodi. It was Davis’ third section golf title, but just its first since 1997. Jesuit-Carmichael’s David Laskin shot a 6-under 66 to take overall medalist honors. Following are the top three teams and four individuals who qualified for the CIF NorCal Championships on May 23 at Corral de Tierra Country Club in Salinas.

Team scores: Davis 361, Lodi 371, Jesuit 372; Individuals: Chris Ebster (Gregori-Modesto), Chandler Kallas (Vista del Lago-Folsom), Tai Maemea (Christian Brothers-Sacramento) and Jarrett Hill (Vacaville).

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: The Davis High team holds up its championship banner; Jesuit’s David Laskin fires a ball up the fairway; Eric Arnheiter shot a 2-under 69 to lead Davis to the team title; Oak Ridge-El Dorado Hills’ Dylan Vanderveer holds his finish as he tees off; Chandler Kallas of Vista del Lago grimaces after a missed putt; Laskin’s 6-under 66 stands out as scores are posted; Alex Barajas of Buhach Colony-Atwater blasts out of a bunker.

Playoffs?!?

Simple tips to keep from psyching yourself out this postseason get mental: erika carlson For many teams and athletes, it’s the postseason that matters most. With championships on the line, your mental game can become especially tricky. It’s easy to get sucked into believing that because it’s the “BIG GAME” we need to do more, try harder and be better than we’ve been all season. After all, we’re competitive and we want to win. Of course you do. And so does your opponent.

Ironically, when you focus on winning, some devastating things happen to your mental game. Here’s the problem… ›› We become focused on the outcome of the game, not the game itself. We lose a sense of control over our performance. This causes us to feel especially nervous. ›› Our thinking jumps into the future (“What if we win?” “What if I blow it?”) which then triggers more nerves and negative emotions. ›› Once nerves are triggered, muscle tension increases (jitters, stiffness, feeling tired) and fine motor skills disappear (technical skills). Plus, more distracting symptoms appear such as a sick stomach or needing to urinate.

Battling these symptoms is well within your control … with some dedicated practice. Here are a few solutions to practice now so they are useful at game time.

STAY FOCUSED ON YOUR PERFORMANCE — Write out a prioritized list of three goals that you want to focus on during the game. Examples include tasks such as increasing communication, staying low, follow through, looking ahead. Simple, important and controllable performance goals are key to staying mentally strong.

STAY PRESENT — Futuristic thinking opens the door to nervousness and past thinking often focuses on mistakes and invites frustration. Staying present allows you to focus on your performance goals and minimizes the chance that emotions will get triggered.

TENSE UP ... THEN RELAX — Seriously! One of the most effective muscle relaxing exercises you can do is tense up a muscle group, hold it for 3-5 seconds, then release and repeat. Try it now! Your muscles will naturally let go of tension with this exercise. Start this early and do it often, systematically going through every major muscle group. And don’t forget to breathe deep and slow.

Never under estimate the value of simple solutions for complicated problems. A solid mental game boils down to knowing what to do, then being able to consistently do it under a variety of situations. Postseason is simply another, more pressure-filled situation to practice your mental skills for your best technical and tactical performance. ✪ Erika Carlson is a CEO and certified mental trainer at Mental Training, Inc. in Pleasanton.

DIRT TRACK TO A CAREER TRACK Avid dirt biker John Cunningham took his passion for Cal State Parks and dirt bikes & shifted it into a career

John Cunningham took his passion of riding dirt bikes and turned it into a career as a California State Parks Ranger. Ranger Cunningham has been riding his dirt bike at Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) since he was 10 years old and has been working as a ranger at the park for more than two years.

As a youngster living only an hour away in Reseda, John and his family often loaded up dirt bikes and headed to Hungry Valley for the day. Cunningham fondly remembers his frequent trips to the park, “I knew that coming out here would be fun!”

As a child, John also spent time riding and camping in the Jawbone and Dove Springs area, part of the new California State Parks acquisition that he now patrols.

In his early twenties, John raced Enduro and Hare Scrambles at Hungry Valley SVRA. While riding at Hungry Valley one day, he saw a ranger on a dirt bike (John’s Ah-ha! moment) and flagged him down. As he talked with the ranger, John realized that he needed more college credits to meet the requirements for a ranger position.

While finishing his college classes, he joined the volunteer patrol staff at Hungry Valley SVRA, gaining valuable knowledge which made him more competitive for the job.

After graduating from the six-month training academy to become a California State Parks Ranger, John chose to return and work at the park that he knows and loves. Most weekends you might find John out on patrol at Hungry Valley, either on a dirt bike or in an RZR quad vehicle. As an avid dirt bike rider, he still races a few times a year. Now, though, he mostly focuses on Dual Sport rides, which are often multiday events.

Hungry Valley SVRA became a unit of the California State Parks system in 1980, the same year Ranger Cunningham was born. Having spent most of his life exploring Hungry Valley, he is a natural ambassador for the park. As a ranger, John is now

charged with protecting the park where he grew up. John is the consummate professional; his offhighway vehicle (OHV) experience is evident, and the pride of being a ranger is reflected in the interactions with park visitors.

If you are interested in a job that operates or works with off-highway vehicles (OHVs), there are a variety available with the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division of California State Parks. An employee with an OHV background benefits both the park and the public. An added bonus for the employee is working in a scenic setting that supports OHV recreation and environmental stewardship. Shift your passion into high gear; Ranger Cunningham is a perfect example of how following your passion can lead to an exciting career.

For information about being hired for a permanent position with State Parks or to become a State Parks Ranger, check out www.parks.ca.gov and click on the JOBS tab. To inquire about seasonal or part-time employment positions in maintenance, resources, administration, and interpretation at Hungry Valley SVRA, please email recruiter Lisa Zamecki at Lisa.Zamecki@ parks.ca.gov.

Visitors to the State Vehicular Recreation Areas bring a variety of off-highway vehicles to explore the trails and enjoy the thrill of the ride. Hungry Valley SVRA is a 20,000 acre OHV park with almost 150 miles of diverse trails, a motocross track, several practice tracks and a 4x4 obstacle course to improve vehicle operating skills. Park information is tweeted, posted on Facebook at Hungry Valley SVRA and on the Hungry Valley website at www.ohv.parks.ca.gov/hungryvalley. Hungry Valley SVRA is located at 5301 Peace Valley Road, Gorman, CA 93243. There is a $5 day use fee and $10 overnight camping fee. For more information, call (661)248-7007. Come out and play! ✪ — Content provided by California State Parks

BADMINTON › East Bay Badminton If you are interested in the competitive sport of badminton, you have to come to one or more of our nine, week-long summer camps. We have 19-and-under to adult classes. Eastbay Badminton Association is a full service facility dedicated entirely to the sport of badminton.

Your satisfaction is our main goal! Info: 510655-8989; info@eastbaybadminton.com BASEBALL › All American Sports Academy Recognized among the top year-round indoor training facilities for baseball & softball, AASA offers camps in hitting, fielding, defense, baserunning, speed/agility, pitching and catching.

Three locations. Info: www.allamericansportsacademy.net (209) 833-BALL(2255) › All Star Academy of Baseball Utilizing our own 17,000 square-foot facility in Santa Clara, as well as the Twin Creeks Sports Complex in Sunnyvale, ASA offers six of week-long All-Skills Camps for ages 7-12, and two Advanced Boot Camps — one for middle school and one for high school players. Info: 650-961-2255; www.asabaseball.com › Blankenship Bulls Summer Baseball Camps Former MLB player Lance Blankenship will hold his camps & programs from May through August, followed by a fall program and winter training. Camps open to 13U to college level.

Camps include All Skills (June 13-15, July 1113) and Big Bat Hit Camps (June 13-15, July 11-13). All Skills camps run 9am-noon and Big Bat camps go 12:30-2:30pm. Info: Blanken-

shipbaseball.com; 925-708-3173; Blankenshipbulls@gmail.com › Total Player Center At TCP we keep our student to instructor ratios low to ensure the best possible instruction experience. Each camp is designed for specific skill development. We feature camps for ages 5-7 to the most elite high school players.

Camps include games, competitions. Located in Livermore. Info: thepitchingcenter.com; 925-416-1600; info@thepitchingcenter.com › De La Salle Baseball Camp This camp gives young players a chance to further develop their skills. Emphasizes proper techniques for each player’s position and each segment of the game (running, stealing, throwing, receiving, hitting, bunting, pitching, catching, outfield and infield play). We use drills and practice as well as games/scrimmages.

Two sessions available. Info: www.dlshs.org/ athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925/288-8100 › Dynamite Sports Speed Baseball/Softball Speed Clinic Contact us to inquire about our in-season and offseason clinicsw. To get started we will give you a FREE assessment/evaluation and two FREE small group training sessions. Info: info@ DynamiteSportsSpeed.com › Headfirst Baseball Academy & Summer Camps Our basic mission is to train young players who are willing to work hard to make the next level. We are proven in the area of recruiting talented players and development. Headfirst

has proven relationships with colleges that result in players being connected with desired school. Info: MJi0209@aol.com; Mario74iglesias@aol.com › Mike Murphy Baseball Academy Mike Murphy Baseball is a nationally recognized baseball and softball academy. We’ve been training players in the Bay Area since 1998. MMB trains all levels. Our private instruction, group classes, camps and clinics are the most comprehensive and detailed of any academy in the country. Lets get swinging!

Info: mikemurphybaseball.com; 925-7984487; mikemurphybaseball@att.net › San Ramon Slammers We’re a member of the East Bay Club Baseball League, organized for the benefit of HS baseball players who wish to play competitive baseball but are unable to play for their own school. One practice per week held at a local high school or city park, with a second practice at an indoor baseball facility. Info: www.slammersbc.org/; eastbayclubbaseball@ gmail.com › South Bay Sports Training Based in Saratoga, we offer camps across both spring break and summer for ages 6-14. Info: www.southbaytraining.com; (408) 283-0643; southbaytraining@aol.com BASKETBALL › Advantage Basketball Camps For kids 7-18, we offer the ultimate sports training experience. Main focus is ball handling and moves off the dribble. Also cover shooting, defense. Agoura Hills, Anaheim, Ap-

ple Valley, Calabasas, Carson, Claremont, La Cañada, Lake Forest, Lincoln, Moreno Valley, Rancho Cucamonga, Redondo Beach, Rocklin & San Diego. Info: www.advantagebasketball. com; 425-670-8877; info@advantagebasketball.com › Bentley School Summer Camp All camps coed and offer instruction, coaching Monday-Friday. Open to rising 6th through 9th graders. Three sessions: Shooting Camp (June 14-16) and two All Skills Camps (June 20-23, June 27-30). Info: Rob Rafeh, Director, rrafeh@ bentleyschool.net, (925) 283-2101 ext. 3241 › Cal Basketball for Girls Provides instruction for players of all skill levels, as we emphasize individual improvement, fundamental skills, teamwork, sportsmanship and enjoyment. We aim to develop and improve both basic and advanced skills such as shooting, passing, ball handling, and footwork.

All interest levels and abilities welcome. Info: 1-800-NIKE CAMPS or info@ussportscamps. com › Bear For A Day Camp A unique girls skills camp with focus on preparing for the next level. Geared for the skilled and motivated athlete. Cal head coach Lindsay Gottlieb, along with her assistant coaches and players, will help improve your game by providing elite on-court training as well as film sessions and clinics. This camp provides an inside view of the Cal Women’s Basketball experience. Info: 1-800-NIKE CAMPS or info@ ussportscamps.com

› De La Salle Basketball Camp Play Hard, Play Together, Play Smart and have fun! All campers will have a great camp experience and, most importantly, have fun. We educate each camper so they have a solid base at becoming the best they can be. Six sessions available. Info: www.dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925/288-8100 › East Bay Bulldogs Our club program is open to boys and girls, 2nd grade to high school varsity. Last year, we had 21 teams for spring including four girls teams and three high school boys teams. The beauty of the Bulldogs is we have room the elite player and the beginner. Offerings in the fall, summer, as well as skills clinics. Info: www.leaguelineup. com/ebbulldogs; 925-570-1334 › Excel in Basketball Series of instructional camps geared to provide instruction in basketball fundamentals to boys and girls in grades 1-12. We pledge to continue our emphasis on fundamentals and developing young athletes to be fine players and fine people. Info: www.excelinbasketball. com; excelcamp@gmail.com › Fastbreak Basketball Camps Former Carondelet coach Margaret Gartner leads three week-long sessions for boys and girls in grades 2-8. If your child wants to learn and improve basketball fundamentals and skills while having fun, then FastBreak Basketball camp is the answer. Camps are held from 10am-2pm each day at NorCal Courts in Martinez Info: fastbreak_club@yahoo.com or (925) 933-9115. › Elevate Basketball Camps & Clinics Elevate is a new 5,700 square foot facility in Concord. We will be hosting summer clinics for both boys and girls. Camps are focused on overall skill development and are fast paced and fun. Camp will include station work, group skills & drills, contests and more.

Athletes will be placed in groups based on age and ability. Info: elevatebasketballtraining. com; 925.323.4527 › Modesto Magic Basketball Association If you are a girl ages 4-17 and you love basketball, we are here to help you take your game to the next level. We offer leagues, camps, clinics, tournaments, private lessons and AAU traveling teams. Info: Stan Silva, 209-7655107; ssilva1920@aol.com › St. Francis Catholic High School (Sacramento) Camp Our girls camp is open to grades 5-9 with two sessions (morning, afternoon) from June 13-17.

We teach fundamentals such as dribbling, passing, rebounding, and shooting. Campers work under varsity coach Vic Pitton, his coaching staff, and current St. Francis varsity players.

Info: 916-737-5040; summer@stfrancishs.org CHEER/DANCE › Make Me A Pro Cheer Camp Fun camp for ages 5-13 where our expe-

rienced staff will challenge campers to be the best that they can be. Techniques taught through fun drills, games and we end week with a performance for parents. Age appropriate stunts may also be taught. One session: June 13-17 from 9am-noon at Gellert Park’s turf field in Daly City. Info: mmapsports.com; 510-677-702 › VELOCITY All-Star Cheer We’re a competitive All Star Cheerleading and Tumbling gym in Antioch. All classes geared toward achieving your child’s goals while having fun, and offer ordinary kids the opportunity to become extraordinary through hard work, determination! Competitive All-Star cheerleading for ages 3-18; Recreational tumbling for ages 3-18 + MORE. Info: velocityallstarscheer.com › Xtreme Cheer Camps Xtreme is a competitive all-star cheerleading, dance and recreational tumbling gym in Antioch. Staff includes enthusiastic, trained professionals. Classes fast-paced, fun and geared toward achieving your child’s goals.

Info: 925-565-5464; xtremetumbleandcheergym@yahoo.com COMMUNITY CENTER › Community Youth Center The CYC is a state-of-the-art sports, academic center in Concord where youth ages 3-18 thrive in a dynamic, positive environment.

CYC is proud to manage 10 sports programs and an academic excellence center offering a variety of camps for youth featuring excellent coaches and fun activities. Info: communityyouthcenter.org; (925) 671-7070 or email: Lmatheny@cycmail.org ENRICHMENT › Eye Level Walnut Creek Eye Level is a systematic, individualized program that caters to students of all abilities utilizing a unique and proven method. This allows each child to have a customized starting point, regardless of his/her age or school grade. Eye Level Walnut Creek has summer and year-round camps in English, Math, Critical Thinking and more. Info: 925-943-6674 FITNESS/TRAINING › 2G Strength & Conditioning Camps 2G Sports and Fitness camp designed to help core and overall strength while improving speed and endurance. All exercises will be body weight or manual resistant (no free weights, machines). Working shoulders, back, chest, arms, abs and legs. Conditioning will be through running and circuit training. Brentwood camp days are Tue. and Thurs. from 5-6pm. at Balfour Guthrie Park. Camp runs six weeks from April-May. The Pleasant Hill camp runs Mon-Thurs. from 5:30-7pm at Christ the King School. Six weeks available from June to early Aug. Info: www.2gsf.com/ › Children’s Hospital Individual Sports Training Train 1-on-1 or in a semi-private session and experience an exercise program specifically

designed to meet your personal fitness goals.

Program includes in-clinic and on-field sessions involving both initial evaluations and training. Available to young athletes of all types, age 8+ years and either the Oakland or Walnut Creek locations. Prices vary. Info: Krisi Bruce, (925) 979-3420 › Children’s Hospital Summer Circuit Series Fun group class that focuses on upper and lower body strength, core stability and balance. An upbeat and active class focusing on strength, flexibility, coordination and balance through fun games. Open to all athletes aged 12-18. Classes are 5-6 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays from June 20-Aug. 12. $20 for drop-in or $144 for 12 classes. Info: Krisi Bruce, (925) 979-3420 › Children’s Hospital F.A.S.T for Athletes Teaches progressive approach to speed, agility techniques and introduces proper techniques of functional strength training and power exercises. Available to young athletes of all types, ages 14-18 on Tuesdays and Thursdays (5-6 pm) in Walnut Creek and Thursdays (7-8pm) in Oakland. Info: Krisi Bruce, (925) 979-3420 › Children’s Hospital Sport-Specific Training Six-week sport-specific training with pre- and post-testing. Football, baseball/softball, basketball, lacrosse, soccer, track, volleyball and cheer. Boys, girls athletes of all levels, ages 8 to 18. Call for details and availability. Info: Krisi Bruce, (925) 979-3420 › Children’s Hospital Summer Sports Speed Camps Put into practice five pillars of SPEED training.

Emphasizing flexibility, stability, strength, power and speed. Two-week program best suited for athletes who play soccer, football, basketball, lacrosse or track & field. Ages 12-19, limited to 15 athletes per session. Two sessions offered, morning at Athenian High in Danville or afternoon at Berkeley High. Info: Call Krisi Bruce, (925) 979-3420 › Children’s Hospital Team Sport Testing & Training Whether you are looking to help prepare during the offseason or complement your in-season schedule, we will maximize the development of speed, quickness, strength, movement skills, energy system conditioning, mobility and stability with team training.

Options include fitness and performance assessments, to nutritional advice and meal planning. Fully customizable. Open to ages 8-18. Call for details. Info: Call Krisi Bruce, (925) 979-3420 › De La Salle Strength & Conditioning (HS) Our high school strength clinics are in place to train incoming 9th-10th graders. Development movements/exercises emphasized to develop the young athlete’s core, neurological system, kinetic chain, range of motion, flexibility and speed & agility. We teach proper lifting techniques and resistance training. Three sessions

available. Info: www.dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925/288-8100 › Speed 4 Your Sport Training Focus on run and sprint mechanics, agility, change of direction and cardio conditioning and gain strides. Train two days per week in one hour sessions with S4S in Pleasanton.

The better your athleticism is, the better you compete. Info: (510) 565-6120; thespeedpro@ hotmail.com › Sports Speed Academy Our focus is getting you to run your fastest.

Whether its football, basketball, baseball, soccer or track and field, our system will improve your mechanics and increase speed. NCAA 100-meter champion and Olympic gold medalist Eddie Hart has created the “Sports Speed Curriculum” to improve speed in all sports.

Info: 925.516.8522; admin@sportsspeedacademy.com FOOTBALL › 2G Sports & Fitness Linemen Skills Camp This is a non-contact camp for players 10-14.

Tailored to developing a solid foundation, effective techniques in defensive and offensive lines. Camp in Brentwood from June 27-30 (9-10:30am). Info: www.2gsf.com/ › Artie Gigantino Football 1-on-1 Clinics Artie Gigantino is a former coach and executive with the Raiders, Rams, Cal and USC. Gigantino provides honest, candid, realistic and professional evaluations, specific position technique training and football related guidance. Get game, practice evaluations, specific position training, safe tackling and blocking techniques, recruiting consultation, in-season and offseason advice on summer camps and a training budget. All ages, grades and levels of abilities welcome. Info: artiesports@yahoo. com › Berean Christian High FCA Camp Berean Christian FCA Football Camp takes the best attributes of an athletic-focused camp and a spiritual-focused camp and combines them.

June 27-30, 9am-2pm at BCHS in Walnut Creek. Grades 3-9. Instructors include current & former NFL players such as Sean Dawkins (1993 first-round pick) and Matt Overton (current Colts longsnapper). Info: 925-945-6464 › California Football Academy Our coed flag football league is great for boys and girls ages 4-14 who want to enjoy a fun, fast game of football. Beginners to advanced players will practice fundamentals, while learning good sportsmanship and participation. Our tackle camp is offered in the spring.

New is our summer multi-sport camps. Oakley, Concord and San Ramon. Info: www.californiafootballacademy.com/; 925-625-2222 › Campolindo Full-Gear Youth Camp Learn from a state championship program. We develop fundamentals, techniques associated with tackle football (contact based on level of readiness). Campolindo head coach Kevin

Macy has been conducting camps in Moraga for more than a decade. Camp staffed with full complement of experienced coaches and certified trainer. Grades 4-8. Info: campofootball. net; (925) 280-3950 x5163; kmacy@acalanes. k12.ca.us › Bob Ladouceur’s Championship Football Camp (De La Salle) Established in 1988 to help teach sound, fundamental offensive and defensive football techniques to the pre-high schoolers. Coaching staff uses demonstration, individual drills to teach basic skills to both beginning and experienced players. Proper warm-up, physical conditioning, drills and review. Full contact is not a priority. June 13-16. Info: www.dlshs.org/ athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925-288-8100 › Clayton Valley Future Champions Non-Contact Camp Practice safer blocking, tackling, shed blocking and ball control technique at our youth camp.

Our main goal is to see that your child has a safe football season. Taught by varsity coach Tim Murphy and the CHCHS staff, held at Clayton Valley Charter HS in Concord. June 13-16, 5-8 p.m. $100/player. Info: claytonvalleyfootball.com or Mike Dominguez at coach. dmngz@gmail.com › De La Salle QB/Wide Receiver Camp We create environment of greater understanding of and proficiency with the fundamentals, techniques, skills, motivation and sportsmanship necessary for success at individual offensive skill positions. QBs — Stance, exchange, drops, set-up, sprint out, play action, screens, ball handling, option, reading defenses and field leadership. WRs — Stance, start, release, route running, cuts, receiving, blocking and reading defense. Two sessions. Info: www. dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@ dlshs.org; 925-288-8100 › De La Salle Lineman Camp Non-contact, technique-oriented lineman camp that focuses on footwork and hand placement. One session June 20-23. Info: www.dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925-288-8100 › Future Warriors Football Camp Camp is for any students entering 5th-8th grade. It is a FREE camp to help educate and enhance our community with basic knowledge to be successful. Ygnacio Valley HS June 6-9, run by the Ygnacio Valley football program.

Info: email Coach Phillip Puentes at coachpuentes@gmail.com › Moreau Catholic Coach Cotter Camp Coach Cotter Non-Contact Football Camp designed for everyone to have fun while learning essential skills in non-contact environment.

Learn skills for all offensive and defensive positions. Each day concludes with “Mariner Ball,” a fun touch football game. Info: moreaucatho-

lic.org/Athletics; Coach Cotter, (510)-8814333; acotter@moreaucatholic.org › Rising Stars QB Challenge One-day event aimed at providing a unique, unmatched experience to the region’s top QB talents. Will challenge physical, mental and on-the-field skills. Partnered with National Scouting Report, a service that helps improve athletes’ chances of getting recruited. May 28 at Analy High in Sebastopol. Info/registration: www.d1quarterback.com › Trench Camp For high school offensive and defensive linemen, this is the premier camp for linemen.

Using former NFL Super Bowl champs and All-Pro linemen to teach footwork, technique and attitude. July 22-24 at Sequoia High in Redwood City. Info: trenchcamp.com GOLF › San Ramon Golf Club Jr. Golf Our summer junior programs designed to introduce golf to the junior as “the Game of a Lifetime.” Camps include Beginner Camp (ages 5-11) where each camper will learn grip, posture and aiming, and Day Camp (intermediate level) for players who want to learn how to shoot lower scores. Players spend quality time on the course with a coach in each group.

Info: golfsanramon.com/tri-valley-junior-golf/ LACROSSE › Booth Lacrosse We offer two-day instructional clinics for 4th12th graders, as well as specialty/positional clinics. Camps held in the East Bay, Marin, El Dorado Hills and South Bay. Info: 415-4505359; info@boothlacrosse.com › Colin Knightly Lacrosse Clinics Training Center classes and lessons are for experienced players looking to take their skills to the next level, or beginners who interested in a new sport. Private lessons for boys ages U9-U19. Sessions mostly consist of speed and agility, stick skills, game concepts and 1v1s.

Walnut Creek. Info: info@ColinKnightlyLacrosse.com; 925-338-1260 › De La Salle Lacrosse Camp Youth players learn what we teach our JV and varsity players. Learn proper shooting form, sliding techniques, how to move off-ball and gain valuable knowledge and insight into the game. Emphasis on understanding why we do something on the field. Youth players walk away with a much better understanding of the game. Info: www.dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925/288-8100 › St. Francis Catholic High School (Sacramento) Summer Lacrosse Camps For girls grades 5-9, June 13-17. Learn basic stick skills, practice shooting and scoring, and work on defensive technique. No prior experience needed. We work on fundamental skills.

Info: 916-737-5040; summer@stfrancishs.org

MARTIAL ARTS › Cal Camps: Martial Arts Run by UC Martial Arts staff, goals are quality instruction, techniques and knowledge of martial arts; encourage youth to enrich lives through fitness of mind and body; and promote development of positive personal character.

Judo, Taekwondo, and Yongmudo. Info: camps. berkeley.edu › USKS (United States Karate Systems) Adult and children’s programs, kick box fitness, mixed martial arts. Providing excellence in martial arts instruction and services for the entire family. 925-682-9517; www.usksmartialarts.com.

MULTI-SPORT › City of Walnut Creek Sports Camp For ages 8-13, program consists of eight week sessions with choice of two different sports for each session and a ninth week offering bowling. Designed to teach training skills, basic individual skills, sportsmanship, team strategies as well as building confidence and self discipline. Golf, tennis, baseball, flag football, basketball, soccer, volleyball and bowling. Info: www.walnutcreekrec.org; (925) 943-5858 › City of Walnut Creek Skyhawk Camps Skyhawk Sports, in cooperation with Walnut Creek Recreation Division, is offering a partial day sports program for ages 3-8. Tiny-Hawk camp (ages 3-4) includes introductory skills, orientation to team play and unique games.

Mini-Hawk camp (4-6) introduces sports such as soccer, baseball, and basketball. Individual sport camps (5-8) are golf, basketball, soccer, baseball, flag rugby, cheerleading, volleyball and flag football. Info: www.walnutcreekrec. org; 925-943-5858 › Dynamic Sports for Kids Promotes, fun, fitness and friends. Run by physical education teachers, camp is at Twin Creeks Sports Complex in Sunnyvale where children of all skill levels learn the basics of sports and games of their choosing. Each day will offer many options of sports and games to be played after a short fitness based round of activities. Camps will be held Mon.-Fri. from 9am-noon and 1-4pm. Sign up for both sessions and receive a healthy lunch option from our in-house kitchen. Info: dynamicssc.com; aubrie@dynamicssc.com › Make Me A Pro Clinic For ages 5-12 and offers a variety of sports, taught through fun games and drills. Whether your child’s interest is soccer or flag football, or just to have fun, meet friends and get in shape, then this camp is for you. Wednesdays April 13-May 18 from 3:30-4:15pm at Gellert Park’s turf field in Daly City. Info: mmapsports. com; 510-677-7024 › Renaissance ClubSport We offer spring and summer sports and speciality camps for kids ages 5-12. Participants

have fun-filled, active breaks as they receive instruction in a variety of sports, activities and projects. Families with multiple children, we offer a 10% sibling discount. Info: Kids World at 925.942.6344.

OUTDOORS/ADVENTURE › Cal Adventures Cal Adventures is the Outdoor Experiential Education Program at UC Berkeley. Through sailing, windsurfing and sea kayaking classes and various custom designed trips and day programs, we provide you with new skills, adventure and memories. Affiliation with the University of California is not required. Info: 510-642-4000; rsweb@berkeley.edu › Camp Concord Youth Camps Week-long youth camps. Enjoy all the funfilled traditions of camp — canoeing, crawdad fishing, archery, hiking, volleyball, swimming, Lake Tahoe beach fun, dances, skits, campfires, and horseback riding — combined with a one-day escape to Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park where we will zip line, tree climb, and challenge ourselves. Ages 9-13. Space limited.

Two sessions available. Info: www.ConcordReg.org; (925) 671-3404 SOCCER › Bentley School Summer Camp All camps are coed and offer instruction and coaching Monday-Friday. Soccer for rising 9th-12th graders: Aug. 8-13. Bentley’s Lafayette Campus athletics facilities include a large synthetic turf field and a state-of-the-art gymnasium. Info: Rob Rafeh, Director, rrafeh@ bentleyschool.net, (925) 283-2101 ext. 3241 › De La Salle Soccer Camp Terrific opportunity for boys and girls who look to excel in all aspects. Expect to participate in competitive drills, skill development exercises and daily competitions between campers.

One session, June 27-30. Info: www.dlshs.org/ athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925-288-8100 › De La Salle Soccer Academy Advanced-level for elite players from 8th-12th grade who are looking to excel. Focus on technique, increasing tactical awareness and position specific functional training. Aug. 1-3.

Info: www.dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925-288-8100 › Gino’s Soccer Academy/Walnut Creek SC Official camp of Walnut Creek Soccer Club.

Run by WCSC Director of Coaching Tom Ginocchio and staffed with WCSC club coaches & players. Five one-week programs for kids age 4-17. For advanced as well as the beginning player. Camp drills and games will be run to accommodate and skill level. Info: www.ginossocceracademy.com, 925-937-4466 › Make Me A Pro Soccer Camp For ages 5-12. Students work to improve basic skills of dribbling, passing, shooting, trapping and heading and new soccer techniques. All

skills taught through fun and engaging methods. June 13-17 and Aug. 13-17, all 9am-noon at Gellert Park turf field in Daly City.

Info: mmapsports.com; 510-677-702 › St. Francis Catholic High School (Sacramento) Soccer Camps Grades 5-9, June 13-17. Provides chance for your student athlete to familiarize herself with the St. Francis program. All elements of the game emphasized, including warm-up, trapping, dribbling, passing, shooting, small-sided games and stretching. Both individual fundamentals and team strategies will be accentuated.

Info: 916-737-5040; summer@stfrancishs.org SOFTBALL › St. Francis Catholic High School (Sacramento) Softball Camps Grades 5-9, June 13-17. Fielding, both infield and outfield, hitting, throwing and various types of bunting techniques will be illustrated. Also pitching and catching techniques and proper base running. Info: 916-737-5040; summer@stfrancishs.org SWIMMING/DIVING › Cal Diving Springboard diving is a safe and fun sport offering both physical and mental skill-building elements. Todd Mulzet (UC Berkeley’s head diving coach) guides overall training program. We offer training for all: first-time divers, to elite, senior, Junior Olympic and Masters level. Classes, private lessons and is building competitive teams at every level. Info: www.CALdiving.org; 510-8593149; SSO@CALdiving.org. › Cal Swimming Camp Directed by UC Berkeley and Olympic Coach Teri McKeever we offer two weeks of outstanding stroke technique camps on the Cal campus. For competitive swimmers age 9-16 with three daily water sessions and one dry-land session. Camper-to-staff ratio is 10:1. Info: www.ussportscamps.com; 1-800-NIKE-CAMP › Sherman Swim & Diving School Located in Lafayette, our year-round schedule allows children and adults to learn, retain and improve skills. Lessons are offered on M-W-F and T-Th over 3-4 weeks. We teach 9 months to adults and non-swimmers to competitive levels. Our private or semiprivate lessons allow you to progress at your pace. Also offer beginning and competitive diving. Info: 925-283-2100, www.

ShermanSwim.com. › Santa Clara Aquamaids Jump in and learn the basics of synchronized swimming! The Santa Clara Aquamaids are looking for swimmers, ages 7-12 who are eager to learn, attentive, able to follow directions and work cooperatively in a group setting. The Santa Clara Aquamaids have been producing world-class synchronized swimmers and Olympic athletes since 1964. Info: 877 722-4630; 408 9889936; info@aquamaids.org TENNIS › Tompkins Tennis We run the top year-round Junior program in NoCal. We produce more nationally ranked juniors than any other program.

Richard Tompkins and his highly trained staff of pros and former Div. I college players specialize in juniors, ages of 6-18. Camp Locations: Fremont, Livermore, Monterrey, San Ramon, Pebble Beach. Info: tompkinssport.com; (510)-573-4025 TRACK & FIELD › De La Salle Track & Field Camp Work with outstanding coaches and athletes, featuring personalized instruction in high jump, long jump, triple jump, shot put, discus, sprints, hurdles, relays and distance events. Learn warm-up and strengthening routines necessary for maximizing performance and reaching goals. Attention given to the mental

component. One session. Info: www.dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925-288-8100 VOLLEYBALL › Bay Area Volleyball Summer Skills Clinics We have a variety of summer options that include a Sand Program (ages 12-18), Skills/Drills (14-18), Youth Camp (9-14) and more. In Concord. Info: www.bayareavolleyballclub.com/; (925) 969-9236 › City Beach Volleyball Club Developing players is our focus. We teach players to earn successes and learn from losses. We offer a wide variety of camps and clinics to serve junior girl players of all experience levels.

Info: citybeachvb.com/camps-clinics/; (408) 654-9330 › De La Salle Volleyball Camp This camp gives boys and girls entering grades 4-9 opportunity to learn from the DLS coaching staff and former standout athletes.

Emphasize proper techniques for each position and segment of the game. One session. Info: www.dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925-288-8100 › Diablo Valley Volleyball Club Nine one-week skills sessions offered from June-August. Camps differ in age groups, some coed and some boys or girls only.

Space is limited. Two sessions in Brentwood, six in Walnut Creek. Info: www.diablovolleyball.org; DiabloVBC@yahoo.com › Moreau Catholic Volleyball Camp Our girls camp is for incoming grades 6-9 and taught by varsity coach Ami Schelin. One sessions. Come learn how the Mariners do things. Info: moreaucatholic.org/Athletics; aschelin@moreaucatholic.org; › St. Francis Catholic High School (Sacramento) Volleyball Camp Camp is three sessions; one for grades 5-9 (June 6-10), one for grades 5-6 (July 11-15) and one for grades 7-9 (July 11-15). This is a beginning level camp. Be taught the basic skills, learn how to pass, set, hit, serve, and do basic defensive moves. Campers split up according to skill level. Info: 916-737-5040; summer@ stfrancishs.org WATER POLO › De La Salle Water Polo Camp Great opportunity for boys and girls to learn the game or enhance the skills. Youth players will learn all aspects of the sport from our experienced staff. Two sessions in August. Info: www. dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925-2888100 WRESTLING › Community Youth Center Wrestling The CYC in Concord offers three types of week-long (July & August) wrestling camps. The Elementary Camp for ages 5-10, The All Corners Camp for ages 11-18, and the Advanced Camp serves the same age group and runs in August. Each camp runs from 9am-3pm at the CYC. Camp fees vary. Info: communityyouthcenter.org; (925) 671-7070 › De La Salle Wrestling Camp Designed as an introductory and intermediate level camp. We emphasize fundamentals needed to learn more advanced skills and tactics. Five different learning components: Proper warmup (stretching and lead-up exercises), kinesthetic awareness exercises (tumbling), review of basic skills and/or new skills, live wrestling and games. One session available. Info: www. dlshs.org/athletics/summer/; summercamps@dlshs.org; 925288-8100 ✪