The Blitz Football Tab - Season 10

INSIDE

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the Blitz season 10 football tab

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the Blitz season 10 football tab

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the Blitz season 10 football tab

C O N T E N T S ALL BLITZ TEAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 LEAGUE SCHEDULES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 COACH POLLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 TURLOCK HIGH BULLDOGS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 PITMAN HIGH PRIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 HILMAR HIGH YELLOWJACKETS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 2021 STATS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 DENAIR HIGH COYOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Publisher Editor Cover Design by Designer Writing & Photography Advertisement

Hank Vander Veen Kristina Hacker Harold George Sharon Hoffman Chris Correa Joe Cortez Frankie Tovar Candy Padilla Beth Flanagan Charles Webber

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

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the Blitz season 10 football tab

Celebrating 10 seasons with FRANKIE TOVAR

It’s Season 10 of The Blitz and we’re 100 yards and running. Prior to the 2013 season, when the show was being prepped for production for the first time, we had no idea how The Blitz would be received or how long it would even run. At the time it was a new venture headed by young reporters who wanted to showcase the local football talent in a new way. Now, almost a decade later, we’re preparing for another installment of what has become a standard for Turlock Journal football coverage.

To mark the occasion, I took it upon myself to revisit the past nine seasons and find the cream of the crop – a difficult task, as it turns out, due to the high level of talent in the area. The goal was to assemble a roster akin to an NFL All-Decade Team with players being selected based on factors like on field production, leadership, and dual-threat ability as well as individual and team accolades.

This inaugural All-Blitz Team includes league MVPs, regional All-Stars, D1 college recruits, Sac-Joaquin Section champions, and California Interscholastic State champions.

While many of the First Team selections were nobrainers, others had to be selected by scouring old newspaper articles, watching past seasons of The Blitz, reviewing available statistics, and consulting long-time reporters and coaches. Even then, the process was challenging. Not because of the high number of players eligible for consideration, but because of the high number

of players who seemingly deserved to be selected based on merit.

Many of the players are two-way starters who excelled everywhere they lined up. The Bass brothers, Rentfro brothers, Jevan Hogan, Drew Lewis, and Logan Wolfley – all were top tier running backs themselves and would be a welcomed addition to any team’s offense. Conversely, some may have placed players on different lists all together based on their preferred offensive scheme. Quarterbacks Danny Velasquez and Jonathan O’Brien are a prime example.

Velasquez played three years at the varsity level for Turlock High, splitting his time as a running back first before moving under center. During his first full year

Isaac Sharp

as QB, the senior Bulldog had more than 1,000 yards as both a passer and rusher for a season total of 2,186 yards and 29 touchdowns. He led Turlock to a league championship and a playoff win for the first time in over a decade and his final varsity totals were 4,576 yards and 51 touchdowns.

Three years prior to Velasquez’ senior season and during the first year of The Blitz, O’Brien broke out as a junior for Hilmar High with 2,110 passing yards, 506 rushing yards, and a total of 34 touchdowns. By season’s end he led the ‘Jackets to a league championship, a SJS Championship appearance, and a record-breaking 13-game win streak before ending his two-year varsity career with a total of 4,525 yards and 51 touchdowns.

Nearly identical numbers.

Comparable accomplishments like this exist throughout the All-Blitz rosters and make for a team that would be rightfully feared on the football field. An offense anchored by the towering Chris Martinez and Everett Johnson – both current players for D1 programs – and boasting weapons like Isaac Sharp, Anthony Frias, Tyler Robinson, and Alex Chavez would without a doubt light up the scoreboard on any given Friday night. A defense helmed by Mustafa Noel-Johnson, Joseph Bello, and Dustin Grein with the likes of Bernardo Duran, Garrett Fountain, and Brendan Patterson on reserve would put the clamp on any opposing offense.

These are the best-of-the-best The Blitz had the privilege of covering over the past nine seasons. Now it’s time to welcome a new class of players and look to the future with Season 10 of The Blitz.

Devan Bass WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

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the Blitz season 10 football tab

Danny Velasquez

the inaugural All-Blitz Team first team

QB RB

WR

TE T

G

C

K

Offense Danny Velasquez Turlock Class of 2017 Isaac Sharp Hilmar Class of 2019 Anthony Frias Turlock Class of 2020 Tyler Robinson Hilmar Class of 2014 Alex Chavez Hilmar Class of 2018 Cam Sherwood Turlock Class of 2019 Everett Johnson Turlock Class of 2020 Chris Martinez Pitman Class of 2017 Aaron Lusher Pitman Class of 2014 Nicholas Berry Turlock Class of 2017 Jared Collier Hilmar Class of 2019 Special Teams Devon Medieros Hilmar Class of 2014

second team

Defense DE/OLB Mustafa Noel-Johnson Turlock Class of 2017 Gabe Cordero Turlock Class of 2018 DT David Bisby Hilmar Class of 2014 Jacob Masihi Turlock Class of 2020 LB Cody Rentfro Hilmar Class of 2017 Dominic Silva Turlock Class of 2017 Joseph Bello Hilmar Class of 2014 C Devan Bass Pitman Class of 2017 Jevan Hogan Turlock Class of 2014 S Dustin Grein Turlock Class of 2018 Logan Wolfley Pitman Class of 2014

QB RB

WR

TE T

G

C

Coach Frank Marques Hilmar

K

All-Blitz Stats

1,000 yards+ Single Season Performances - Rushing Isaac Sharp (2018) – 1,687 yards Cody Rentfro (2016) – 1,502 yards Steffin Winston (2018) – 1,432 yards Isaac Sharp (2017) – 1,329 yards Jakob Partida (2019) – 1, 167 yards Justin Rentfro (2018) – 1,125 yards Danny Velasquez (2016) – 1,101 yards Anthony Frias (2019) – 1,083 yards Devan Bass (2016) – 1,036 yards

- Passing Jonathan O’Brien (2013) – 2,110 yards Seth Miguel (2019) – 1,946 yards Jonathan O’Brien (2014) – 1,477 yardsDanny Velasquez (2016) – 1,096 yards

Offense Jonathan O’Brien Hilmar Class of 2016 Payton Bass Pitman Class of 2019 Steffin Winston Denair Class of 2019 Denzel Steckwren Pitman Class of 2019 Jordan Porter Turlock Class of 2018 Micah Millentree Pitman Class of 2016 Ashton Patteron Turlock Class of 2022 Britten Smith Hilmar Class of 2014 Brendan Tallent Pitman Class of 2018 Nick Aguilera Hilmar Class of 2019 JT Mercer Pitman Class of 2017

Defense DE/OLB Bernardo Duran Hilmar Class of 2014 Garret Fountain Turlock Class of 2019 DT Eric Bejaran Pitman Class of 2014 Josh Vercelli Pitman Class of 2015 LB Jereicho Taamu Turlock Class of 2016 Justin Rentfro Hilmar Class of 2017 Blake McBay Pitman Class of 2016 C Cole Cozine Hilmar Class of 2019 Drew Lewis Pitman Class of 2014 S Cole Bailey Hilmar Class of 2021 Brendan Patterson Pitman Class of 2017

Special Teams Bryan Millan Hilmar Class of 2019

Coach James Peterson Turlock

honorable mention

- Receiving Alex Chavez (2015) – 1,344 yards Tyler Robinson (2013) – 1,038 yards

QB

Jonah Kosakiewicz

Turlock

QB

Seth Miguel

Hilmar

Sacks in a Single Season Gabe Cordero (2017) – 17.5 sacks Bernardo Duran (2013) – 14 sacks Mustafa Noel-Johnson (2015) – 8.5 sacks Mustafa Noel-Johnson (2016) – 8 sacks

WR

Jacob Mabie

Turlock

WR

Carter Azevedo

Hilmar

DE

Ronald Sharlou

Turlock

LB

Robert Lindo

Hilmar

K

Dallin Tilby

Turlock

RB

Hunter Musgrave

Denair

RB

Jakob Partida

Pitman

DE

Scott Badal

Denair

WR

Donovan Bravo

Pitman

DE/OLB Carlo Morales

Denair

Solo Tackles in a Single Season Joseph Bello (2013) – 87 solo tackles Mustafa Noel-Johnson (2016) – 81 solo tackles Justin Rentfro (2018) – 79 solo tackles Gabe Cordero (2017) – 74 solo tackles Dominic Silva (2016) – 72 solo tackles Dustin Grein (2017) – 70.5 solo tackles David Bisby (2013) – 70 solo tackles

T

Brock Fusi

Pitman

QB

Garrett Thomas

Delhi

Pitman

RB

Joseph Cantu

Delhi

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

DE/OLB Jason Foglia

7

the Blitz season 10 football tab

2022 LEAGUE SCHEDULES CENTRAL CALIFORNIA ATHLETIC LEAGUE Turlock Bulldogs Aug. 19 Rocklin Aug. 26 at Clovis West Sept. 2 Central Sept. 9 at Manteca Sept. 16 at Clayton Valley Charter Sep. 23 Bye Sept. 30 at Pitman Oct. 7 Downey Oct. 14 at Modesto Oct. 21 Enochs Oct. 28 Gregori

SOUTHERN LEAGUE

TRANS-VALLEY LEAGUE

Enochs Eagles Aug. 19 Beyer Aug. 26 at Liberty Sept. 2 at Buhach Colony Sept. 9 Central Valley Sept. 16 Bye Sep. 24 at Oakdale Sept. 30 Gregori Oct. 7 Pitman Oct. 14 at Downey Oct. 21 at Turlock Oct. 28 Modesto

Delhi Hawks Aug. 19 El Capitan Aug. 26 Riverbank Sept. 2 at Big Valley Christian Sept. 9 Bye Sept. 16 at Waterford Sep. 23 Mariposa Sept. 30 Gustine Oct. 7 at Orestimba Oct. 14 Denair Oct. 21 at Le Grand Oct. 28 Ripon Christian

Mariposa Grizzlies Aug. 19 at Yosemite Aug. 26 at Minarets Sept. 2 Bye Sept. 9 at Davis Sept. 16 at Gustine Sep. 23 at Delhi Sept. 30 Orestimba Oct. 7 at Denair Oct. 14 Ripon Christian Oct. 21 Waterford Oct. 28 at Le Grand

Escalon Cougars Aug. 19 at Damonte Ranch Aug. 26 Buchanan Sept. 2 Windsor Sept. 9 at Kimball Sept. 16 Hughson Sep. 23 Bye Sept. 30 at Hilmar Oct. 7 Modesto Christian Oct. 14 Riverbank Oct. 21 at Ripon Oct. 28 at Livingston

Pitman Pride Aug. 19 at Central Valley Aug. 26 Cosumnes Oaks Sept. 2 at Patterson Sept. 9 Golden Valley Sept. 16 Bye Sep. 23 at Oak Ridge Sept. 30 Turlock Oct. 7 at Enochs Oct. 14 Gregori Oct. 21 at Modesto Oct. 28 at Downey

Gregori Jaguars Aug. 19 Buhach Colony Aug. 26 Merced Sept. 2 Atwater Sept. 9 at Livermore Sept. 16 Bye Sep. 23 at Lodi Sept. 30 at Enochs Oct. 7 Modesto Oct. 14 at Pitman Oct. 21 Downey Oct. 28 at Turlock

Denair Coyotes Aug. 19 Bye Aug. 26 at Modesto Christian Sept. 2 Riverbank Sept. 10 at Washington (San Francisco), 2 p.m.

Sept. 16 at Ripon Christian Sep. 23 Gustine Sept. 30 Le Grand Oct. 7 Mariposa Oct. 14 at Delhi Oct. 21 Orestimba Oct. 28 at Waterford

Orestimba Warriors Aug. 19 Rio Vista Aug. 26 at Hughson Sept. 2 at Los Banos Sept. 9 Bye Sept. 16 Le Grand Sep. 23 Ripon Christian Sept. 30 at Mariposa Oct. 7 Delhi Oct. 14 Waterford Oct. 21 at Denair Oct. 28 at Gustine

Hilmar Yellowjackets Aug. 19 Patterson Aug. 26 Los Banos Sept. 2 at Sonora Sept. 10 at Palma (Salinas), 1 p.m.

Sept. 16 at Livingston Sep. 23 Ripon Sept. 30 Escalon Oct. 7 Bye Oct. 14 at Hughson Oct. 21 at Modesto Christian Oct. 28 Riverbank

Downey Knights Aug. 19 at Lincoln Aug. 26 at East Union Sept. 2 at Merced Sept. 9 Beyer Sept. 16 Tracy Sep. 23 Bye Sept. 30 at Modesto Oct. 7 at Turlock Oct. 14 Enochs Oct. 21 at Gregori Oct. 28 Pitman

Modesto Panthers Aug. 19 at Johansen Aug. 26 at Beyer Sept. 2 Stagg Sept. 9 Patterson Sept. 16 at Sierra Sep. 23 Bye Sept. 30 Downey Oct. 7 at Gregori Oct. 14 Turlock Oct. 21 Pitman Oct. 28 at Enochs

Ripon Christian Knights Aug. 19 Central Valley Christian Aug. 26 at Cloverdale Sept. 2 Calaveras Sept. 9 Bye Sept. 16 Denair Sep. 23 at Orestimba Sept. 30 at Waterford Oct. 7 Le Grand Oct. 14 at Mariposa Oct. 21 Gustine Oct. 28 at Delhi

Gustine Reds Aug. 19 at Summerville Aug. 26 Johansen Sept. 2 Delta Charter Sept. 9 Bye Sept. 16 Mariposa Sep. 23 at Denair Sept. 30 at Delhi Oct. 7 at Waterford Oct. 14 Le Grand Oct. 21 at Ripon Christian Oct. 28 Orestimba

Waterford Wildcats Aug. 19 at Stone Ridge Christian Aug. 26 Big Valley Christian Sept. 2 at Summerville Sept. 9 Bye Sept. 16 Delhi Sep. 23 at Le Grand Sept. 30 Ripon Christian Oct. 7 Gustine Oct. 14 at Orestimba Oct. 21 at Mariposa Oct. 28 Denair

Le Grand Bulldogs Aug. 19 at Livingston Aug. 26 El Capitan Sept. 2 Tranquillity THIS IS CQ Sept. 9 Bye Sept. 16 at Orestimba Sep. 23 Waterford Sept. 30 at Denair Oct. 7 at Ripon Christian Oct. 14 at Gustine Oct. 21 Delhi Oct. 28 Mariposa WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

8

Hughson Huskies Aug. 19 at Sierra Aug. 26 Orestimba Sept. 2 at Argonaut Sept. 9 Summerville Sept. 16 at Escalon Sep. 23 Livingston Sept. 30 at Modesto Christian Oct. 7 at Riverbank Oct. 14 Hilmar Oct. 21 Bye Oct. 28 Ripon Livingston Wolves Aug. 19 Le Grand Aug. 26 Livermore Sept. 2 at Amador Sept. 9 at El Capitan

the Blitz season 10 football tab

Sept. 16 Hilmar Sep. 23 at Hughson Sept. 30 Bye Oct. 7 at Ripon Oct. 14 Modesto Christian Oct. 21 at Riverbank Oct. 28 Escalon Modesto Christian Crusaders Aug. 19 Foresthill Aug. 26 Denair Sept. 2 El Capitan Sept. 10 at Delta Charter, noon Sept. 16 at Ripon Sep. 23 Riverbank Sept. 30 Hughson Oct. 7 at Escalon Oct. 14 at Livingston Oct. 21 Hilmar Oct. 28 Bye Ripon Indians Aug. 19 at East Union Aug. 26 Sonora Sept. 2 McClatchy Sept. 9 at Calaveras Sept. 16 Modesto Christian Sep. 23 at Hilmar Sept. 30 at Riverbank Oct. 7 Livingston Oct. 14 Bye Oct. 21 Escalon Oct. 28 at Hughson Riverbank Bruins Aug. 19 Millennium Aug. 26 at Delhi Sept. 2 at Denair Sept. 9 Bye Sept. 16 Valley Christian Sept. 23 at Modesto Christian Sept. 30 Ripon Oct. 7 Hughson Oct. 14 at Escalon Oct. 21 Livingston Oct. 28 at Hilmar

coach polls

Celebrating

August 1867 to 2022

CCAL Coaches Poll

SOUTHERN LEAGUE COACHES POLL

Turlock (3) Downey (3) Gregori Pitman (tie) Modesto (tie) Enochs

Ripon Christian Orestimba Le Grand Waterford Mariposa Gustine Denair Delhi

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

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the Blitz season 10 football tab

Turlock High Bulldogs

Lessons from the past forge Turlock’s future

BY JOE CORTEZ

Five times a week for the past eight months, every time Turlock High football players entered the team’s weight room, they were greeted by the same three numbers, connected by a hyphen, scrawled on the white board.

41-0.

That’s the score by which perennial Sac-Joaquin Section powerhouse Rocklin defeated the Bulldogs in the 2021 season opener.

Head coach James Peterson would rather his team not forget.

“It reminds the guys that we need to work,” said Peterson, entering his 14th season as the Bulldogs head coach.

“Rocklin plays at a level we strive to be at, and we’ve used last year as motivation for our home opener in the 2022 season.”

It isn’t the fact that Turlock lost the game badly that Peterson wants his players to recall. He wants them to remember that calamity is just one bad practice away. And that challenges, no matter how big, must be faced boldly.

Peterson just as easily could have chosen to put other numerical reminders on the white board, such as 38-14 or 25.

Those were the scores by which the Bulldogs lost to Downey and Gregori in Central California Athletic League matchups last year — their first CCAL losses since the loop’s inception in 2018.

“That’s all we’ve been talking about,” said Peterson. “We want to get it right this year.”

Peterson also believes, for the first time since the start of the pandemic, the program is once again running smoothly.

The COVID-shortened 2020 season affected offseason preparations for the 2021 campaign, according to Peterson, and the program is just now getting back into rhythm.

“We played a group of core guys last that we thought were owed a season,” said Peterson.

While teams in other districts, with differing COVID protocols, were better able to navigate the system, Peterson admits struggling to find a balance.

“There were some lingering issues last year,” he said. “We had too many reps outside of the weight room and we couldn’t get our spring ball going. Things just kind of bottlenecked.”

Defending CCAL champion Downey took a different approach in 2020. Head WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

coach Jeremy Plaa promoted nearly half his junior varsity squad and gave them valuable varsity experience. That seasoning paid off last year in the Oct. 8 showdown with Turlock.

Downey will have 17 three-year varsity players on its roster this fall. Of those, 15 started last year as juniors. Turlock, meanwhile, brings back 11 starters.

In the Journal’s 2022 CCAL coaches poll, the Bulldogs narrowly edged the Knights for the top spot, though each team garnered three first-place votes.

Turlock and Downey will square off on Oct. 7 at Joe Debely Stadium in a game that, in all likelihood, will determine the CCAL champion.

The Bulldogs offense will have a new look this year as 2015 and 2016 Central California Conference (Turlock’s former league) MVP Danny Velasquez returns to his alma mater as offensive coordinator. He’ll borrow concepts from his time at Modesto Junior College, when he played in Rusty Stivers’ exciting NASCAR Offense.

“It’s really a simple offense,” said Velasquez. “People don’t really understand how simple it is.”

Simplicity is probably a good thing for 10

the Blitz season 10 football tab

a quarterback coming off a year lost to injury.

Cole Gilbert is back for his final season in blue and gold, fully healthy after suffering a knee injury in 2021. His top target will be a big one: 6-foot, 5-inch junior Andrew Johnson, the brother of former Bulldog Everett Johnson, now playing on Cal’s offensive line.

Also returning is senior running back J.T. Foreman, who rushed for a teamleading 1,211 yards and 10 touchdowns in ’21.

Defensively, Turlock appears to be in good shape with defensive backs Alex Velasquez and Logan Bankson, linebackers Joshua Weatherbee and Martin Bertao, and linemen Nolan Ashbaugh and Logan Durkee all back for their senior campaign, which gets under way on Friday at home against the aforementioned Rocklin. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

Regardless of the outcome, Peterson is confident his team come out ready to play.

“We play hard-nosed, old-school football here,” said Peterson. “I take a lot of pride in that.”

0

Logan Bankson

Sr.

RB/DB

1

Owen Miller

Jr.

MLB

2

Alex Velasquez

Sr.

CB

3

Kael McBay

Sr.

RB/DB

4

Peter Mello

Sr.

WR/DB

Sr.

RB/DB

5 J.T. Foreman

Velasquez returns to coach at alma mater

BY JOE CORTEZ

Aug. 19 vs Rocklin Aug. 26 @ Clovis West Sept. 2 vs Central Sept. 9 @ Manteca Sept. 16 @ Clayton Valley Charter Sep. 23 Bye Sept. 30 @ Pitman Oct. 7 vs Downey Oct. 14 @ Modesto Oct. 21 vs Enochs Oct. 28 vs Gregori

2021 CCAL standings Team 1. Downey 2. Gregori 3. Turlock 4. Pitman 5. Enochs 6. Modesto

Overall 9-2 6-5 4-7 3-6 5-5 2-8

League 5-0 4-1 3-2 2-3 1-4 0-5

Danny Velasquez looks like he could suit up and play football.

Right now.

At 6 feet even and 200 pounds, the heavily muscled 2017 Turlock graduate is actually lighter than when he won back-to-back league MVPs as the Bulldogs quarterback.

But now that he’s a coach — Velasquez will serve as the team’s offensive coordinator this season — he doesn’t quite look the part.

Following an early-August practice under the scorching Valley heat, a player leaving the field yelled something to the new coach.

What did he say?

“He said I need to go eat some donuts and work on my ‘coach body,’” chuckled Velasquez.

After graduating from Turlock, Velasquez accepted an offer to play football at Portland State. When things didn’t work out in Oregon, he returned and played a season for Rusty Stivers at Modesto Junior College.

From there, he walked on at Fresno State before transferring to Southwest Minnesota State. The move, however, cost Velasquez a year of eligibility and he decided to call it a career and head home to Turlock.

Shortly thereafter, he got an offer from Peterson.

“I’ve always known that I wanted to be a coach,” said Velasquez. “Even back when I was in high school.”

Velasquez will use concepts learned while piloting Stivers’ NASCAR offense, an exciting, up-tempo system that lights up scoreboards “I love Rusty,” said Velasquez. “He’s been a big role model.

“When Pete offered me the job and I was debating what to do with the offense, I thought, ‘Why not run Rusty’s?’ There’s not a lot of plays, there’s not a lot of formations. It’s a really simple offense. People don’t really understand how simple it is.”

His old coach thinks he’s up to the task.

“Just like when he was a player,” Stivers said, “he’ll be a smooth operator.”

To run the offense effectively, players have to be able to put the pedal to floor in the fourth quarter when the other team is out of gas. In short, Turlock players will have to be in peak physical condition.

Just like their offensive coordinator.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

11

the Blitz season 10 football tab

6

Vincent Gonzales Jr.

QB

7

Cole Hendrix

Sr.

OLB

8

Cole Gilbert

Sr.

QB

9 Isaiah Bertalotto Jr.

DB

10 Andrew Johnson Jr.

WR/DB

11 Jeremiah Bertalotto Jr.

WR/DB

12 Gage Pritt

WR/DB

Sr.

13 Adrian Sandoval Jr.

CB

14 Carter Crivelli

Jr.

WR/DB

15 Hunter Kincaid

Jr.

WR

16 Kyle Parker

Sr.

DB

18 Jackson Mendonca Jr.

TE/DE

20 Matthew Meneses Jr.

WR/CB

21 Joshua Weatherbee Sr.

TE/OLB

23 Eden Britten

Jr.

WR/DB

24 Tarell Johnson

Jr.

RB/DE

25 Dhiraj Singh

Jr.

C

29 Cesar Perez

Jr.

MLB

30 Gavin Parker

Jr.

WR/CB

33 Devon Lambert

Jr.

MLB

34 Elijah Watson

Jr.

OLB/TE

35 Dru Kimura

Jr.

OLB

44 Jeremy Garcia

Sr.

RB/OLB

45 Martin Bertao

Sr.

MLB

52 Logan Durkee

Jr.

OL/DL

68 Luke Perkins

Jr.

DE

70 Juan Pablo Nevarez Jr.

OL/DE

72 Jason Rose

Sr.

OL/DL

73 Nolan Ashbaugh Sr.

OL/DL

74 Nelson Lozano

Jr.

OL/DL

75 D.J. Curtice

Sr.

OL/DL

76 Chase Hendrix

Sr.

OL

77 Gavin Martinez Jr.

OL/DL

78 Kristian Guerrero Jr.

OL/DL

85 Zachary Macklin Sr.

OL/DL

90 Phoenix Nunez-Bradshaw Sr.

DE

Pitman High Pride Pride make tradition a point of emphasis ahead of 2022 season

BY CHRISTOPHER CORREA

Pitman High School head coach Eric Reza has been a part of the football program since 2004, the third year of the program’s existence. He realizes that, even though they don’t have the longest history in comparison to other local schools, the history they do have is special and should be embraced.

“It’s not a secret and I’m not going to deny it, we’re still a young program,” Reza said. “Other schools like Turlock have that long history where grandparents and parents played back in the day, and we’re just not old enough to have that quite yet, but we’re still proud.”

After missing the playoffs for three years, the embracement of past players and past teams will be emphasized this year - and it will come in more ways than one.

One of the first ways the Reza will look

to bring back the glory of year’s past is through his coaching staff and personnel at all three levels.

At the freshman level, Reza’s son, Eric Reza Jr. (Class of ‘13), will once again serve as head coach, leading the early development of the younger players. Working alongside Reza Jr. are five other alumni: Nick Renteria (’13), Diego Camorlinga (’13), Anthony Leal (’12) and Seth Alvarado (’19). Meanwhile at the JV level, Scott Tyler (’19) is helping coach the defensive line.

“It’s good to see the alumni come out and come back because they truly know what Pitman football is all about,” Reza said. “They bring the traditions that they’ve been through, they bring the same coaching they’ve been taught.”

As the alumni look to mold the latest generation of Pitman greats, the players themselves will honor Pride legends on the field during games. Reza did not reWEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

veal how the uniforms would be tweaked to honor Pride alumni, but he believes that former players will appreciate it once the team takes the field for the first time.

“The most obvious thing is that we haven’t made the playoffs in the past couple of years, and that’s not something we want to get used to,” Reza said. “We need to bring that grit and toughness and competitiveness back from the early days when guys like Colin Kaepernick and Anthony Harding were here.”

Reza explained that the rollout for the designs will come slowly on Pitman social media channels.

“Nobody knows about it yet, so I’ll keep it a secret until our first game and when we put it out on social media. I know all the former players will be pretty excited when they see it for the first time,” he said.

One aspect of the uniforms that Reza doesn’t mind sharing is the helmet stick12

the Blitz season 10 football tab

ers all three teams will wear to honor the life of 2009 graduate and four-year player Matthew Staack. Staack passed away in March in a car accident at the age of 32.

“Matt Staack was a great man who played at all three levels during his time here. To honor him, every single player will have a #13 sticker on the back of their helmets for the whole year,” Reza said.

Whether it be the leadership of alumni or the details in this year’s jerseys, Reza believes that his players this year can be inspired to create a season full of memories and success.

“With time, the kids will better understand what it means to play for Pitman,” he said. “Some already understand it better than some, but we really hope to instill these values as the season goes on.

It’s really exciting.”

Pride set sights on first playoff berth since 2018

BY CHRISTOPHER CORREA

Aug. 19 @ Central Valley Aug. 26 vs Cosumnes Oaks Sept. 2 @ Patterson Sept. 9 vs Golden Valley Sept. 16 Bye Sep. 23 @ Oak Ridge Sept. 30 vs Turlock Oct. 7 @ Enochs Oct. 14 vs Gregori Oct. 21 @ Modesto Oct. 28 @ Downey

2021 CCAL standings Team 1. Downey 2. Gregori 3. Turlock 4. Pitman 5. Enochs 6. Modesto

Overall 9-2 6-5 4-7 3-6 5-5 2-8

League 5-0 4-1 3-2 2-3 1-4 0-5

Eric Reza will be leading the Pitman Pride varsity football team for the second year. In Reza’s first year, a combination of inexperience and lack of opportunities stiffened his squad. In 2022, he believes that a return to their winning ways is possible.

“Coming from the cancelled COVID year, a lot of guys had inexperience. And with COVID, we didn’t have a deep roster to begin with and we had lots of guys testing positive, forcing us to cancel one of our games,” Reza explained.

Most of Reza’s top skill players are returning, including running back and wide receiver Joey Stout, quarterback Drew Walker and wide receiver Dylan Freeman.

On the defensive side of things, defensive lineman Alex Rodriguez will look to lock down oppositions during his senior year. Reza felt as if defense was a strong suit for the Pride in 2021.

With the combination of a significant returning class, Reza and his team could very well make some noise within the Central California Athletic League.

“We turned to a new offense last year, so they’ve had time to learn and adjust. For the most part, this is a very coachable group… I very much have higher expectations for this year’s team.,” Reza said.

Though the returning group is enough reason for Pitman fans to be excited, Reza is also raving about some of the first-year varsity players.

“We have a lot of guys that are coming up from JV who are going to help out a lot and some who will have opportunities to prove themselves and compete, guys like Matthew Burciaga,” Reza said.

Burciaga will be a key depth tool at running back while looking to play a big role at linebacker.

In total, the 2022 Pitman roster will have more players on the roster compared to last year, providing the Pride with much more stability. With his over two decades of coaching experience, Reza knows that this can make all the difference.

“I’m excited for the entire program down from the freshman level on up, but I’m most excited for the seniors. This is their last year and I want to make it as special as possible,” he said. “Our ultimate goal is to win a championship, but the first step is making the playoffs, and I think we have a shot with this group.”

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

13

the Blitz season 10 football tab

1 2 4 5 6 9 11 12 14 15 17 18 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 32 33 40 44 45 52 54 58 59 66 67 70 77 78 99

Matthew Burciaga Carlos Naranjo Andrew Azevedo Cyruss Snow Sean Forte-Richard Jonathan Beals Drew Walker Cruzito Garcia Jonnathan Delgado Adam Quezada Gabriel Bedolla Michael Schwartz Dominick Heredia-Hernandez Jose Zamora III Joey Stout Aric Singh Cesar Leyva Kolten Pruitt Rayden Rasmussen Marc Ouse Daniel Aguilar Christian Pena Jack McBay Jorge Perez Kabir Sansari Taunk Isaac Simoes Joseant Barrios Iker Pelayo Daniel Ventura Adam David Lucas Arrizon Angel Lopez Sartoj Sahota Alex Rodriguez

Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr.

RB, LB WR, DB QB/DB TE, DL WR, DB RB, LB QB, DB WR, DB QB, LB WR, DB WR, DB WR, DB LB,RB RB, DB RB, WR WR, LB WR,DB RB, DB WR, DB RB, DL RB, LB FB, LB RB, DL TE, LB OL, DL OL, DL OL, DL OL, DL OL, DL OL, DL. OL, DL. OL, DL. OL, DL OL, DL

Hilmar High Yellowjackets

Special season in store for Hilmar as it celebrates 100 years of football

BY JOE CORTEZ

The 2022 season will be a special one for Hilmar High School’s football program.

It’s the school’s 100th season playing football in the small, farming community, and before each home game the team plans to honor a group of players and coaches from a specific era.

“It’s going to be really neat,” said Yellowjackets’ head coach and Hilmar alum Frank Marques. “I’m super excited.”

But let’s get real for a moment, shall we?

What really gets Marques excited, what really will make it a special season for Hilmar … is a ninth Sac-Joaquin Section championship banner. That would be the fifth title on Marques’ résumé and break a tie with Jerry Van Lengen, who won four consecutive Division IV titles from 1986 to 1989 after losing finals in 1984 and 1985 (Van Lengen and his crew from the 1980s

are slated to be honored before one of Hilmar’s home games).

Blue championship banners are how Hilmar measures excitement. And the Yellowjackets, who have reached four straight section titles games (not counting the 2020 COVID season when there were no playoffs), look to have another contender.

After winning back-to-back banners in 2017 and 2018, Hilmar came up short in 2019 and 2021, falling to Trans-Valley League rival Escalon each time.

Both the Cougars and Yellowjackets, who finished 1-2 in the TVL coaches poll, respectively, and Ripon, all have won state titles during that stretch.

Throw in a Hughson team on the come and you see why it’ll be hard enough to win a league crown, let alone a section or state championship.

Still, that’s the goal on Lander Avenue.

“I think if we stay healthy, we’re going to be fun to watch,” said Marques, who has five starters returning on offensive WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

and six on defense. Among those is senior wide receiver Derek Taylor, a 6-5, 210-pounder whose sure hands are drawing looks from Division I scouts.

Six-foot-3, 205-pound senior Jerardo Ponce also will be a threat for Hilmar.

Getting them the ball will be Hudson Azevedo, a 5-10, 170-pound senior who was injured during summer practices in 2021.

“I’m 100 percent right now,” said Azevedo, who sported a knee brace through summer practices. “This thing is just for precaution.”

Marques likes his quarterback’s skills, but he likes the intangibles perhaps even more.

“He’s the leader of the club,” Marques said of his signal caller. “Off the field as well as on. He has a real toughness about him.”

Now in his 20th season as head coach, Marques has the Hilmar program humming like no other: averaging nine wins per season over his career with four straight trips to the section final. a junior

14

the Blitz season 10 football tab

varsity team riding a 34-game win streak dating back to 2018 and a coaching staff comprised entirely of former teammates or players of the head coach (with one exception, but even that coach has taught at Hilmar for 30-plus years).

Additionally, Hilmar has bulked up its preseason schedule, with an eye toward being a sharper club come November.

The Yellowjackets open Friday at McSweeney Field against Patterson.

Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. Hilmar will host Los Banos on Aug. 26 before traveling to take on Sonora a week later. After that, it’s off to Salinas for a contest on Sept. 10 against perennial Central Coast parochial powerhouse Palma. Kickoff for that Saturday tilt is scheduled for 2 p.m.

“This team is getting dialed in,” said Marques, who has guided the Yellowjackets to a Belichickian 10 section final appearances in 19 seasons. “I think we’re ahead of schedule. It’s exciting.”

Remember: In Hilmar, exciting means sections championships.

Azevedo looking to make up for lost time

BY JOE CORTEZ

Aug. 19 vs Patterson Aug. 26 vs Los Banos Sept. 2 @ Sonora Sept. 10 @ Palma (Salinas) Sept. 16 @ Livingston Sep. 23 vs Ripon Sept. 30 vs Escalon Oct. 7 Bye Oct. 14 @ Hughson Oct. 21 @ Modesto Christian Oct. 28 vs Riverbank

2021 TVL standings Team Overall 1. Escalon 9-1 2. Ripon 6-4 3. Hilmar 8-2 4. Livingston 6-4 5. Hughson 7-3 6. Modesto Chr. 1-7 7. Riverbank 0-9

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

Hudson Azevedo sits on the bottom row of aluminum bleachers, nestled in the shade of a nearby tree, watching his Hilmar High teammates practice in the unforgiving summer sun.

Hey, it’s one of the perks of being a quarterback: always in demand by the media.

He eats it up, too. Most high school athletes are uncertain how to carry themselves during interviews, unsure what to say or how to act.

Not Azevedo. He’s got a bit of Joe Namath in him.

For you kids reading, we’ll save you a trip to Wikipedia. Joe Namath was the quarterback of the New York Jets in the swingin’ ‘60s. He earned the nickname “Broadway Joe” with his lavish lifestyle, movie-star good looks, and cocksure attitude on the field. In 1969, when the Baltimore Colts were favored to win Super Bowl III by 17 points, Namath famously guaranteed that the Jets would win.

And he delivered.

Azevedo has all that Namath-ness, and doesn’t mind being the underdog.

He grew up with older brothers Carter (Class of 2018) and Aidan (Class of 2020). Carter won a Sac-Joaquin Section Division VI championship his senior year, while Aidan won two section banners (in three trips to the finals) and earned a state title in 2018. A cousin, Christian Azevedo, was part of Hilmar’s 2008 section championship squad.

Hudson probably thinks it’s his birth right to win with the Yellowjackets.

“He’ll never catch me,” says Aidan Azevedo, revealing some of the competitive juices that fueled the Azevedos’ backyard games as youngsters. “I won two section titles and a state title. … it’s his turn now.”

Hudson was always eager to compete with his brothers. It didn’t matter that he was smaller.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

15

“We used to give Huddy a hard time growing up,” says Carter. “We definitely teamed up on him a few times playing football, basketball, wrestling, whatever. It definitely developed that competitive fire. And we didn’t let him win, either. Huddy didn’t do a lot of winning growing up.”

He hasn’t done a lot of winning at Hilmar High, either. But that’s only because he hasn’t played.

Which brings us to another thing he shares with Namath.

Like Broadway Joe, Azevedo tore his left anterior cruciate ligament on just the second day of practice in pads, causing him to miss the entire 2021 season. This on the heels of the truncated COVID season in 2020.

Would Azevedo have been the difference in a 20-13 loss to Escalon in last year’s section final? We’ll never know the answer, but Azevedo isn’t concerned about what might have been. He’s only interested in what lies ahead … and that’s probably another postseason showdown with Escalon.

The teams will meet in the regular season on Sept. 30 in Hilmar.

“It really, really hurt standing on the sideline and watching last year,” says the 5-foot-9, 170-pound quarterback.

“I’m just excited to play again.”

The injury did afford Azevedo time in the weight room, and he packed on muscle to his frame.

“He could probably kick my butt now,” admits Aidan. “He’s the hardest worker of the three of us. He won’t miss a day in the gym.

“Carter and I were outside-threat receivers. Huddy likes contact. He’s a dual-threat type of quarterback, for sure. I think it’ll show on the field, all the hard work he’s put in.”

Unlike Namath, Azevedo won’t guarantee anything about the upcoming season. He just smiles that sly smile of his and says, “I’m 100 percent. I haven’t lost anything.”

the Blitz season 10 football tab

1

Luke Cox

2

Hudson Azevedo Sr.

QB/S

3

Elias Agueda

Sr.

WR/DB

4

Jax Jarvis

Sr.

WR/DB

5

Logan Cardoso

Jr.

RB/LB

6

Bradley Morris

Sr.

QB/DB

8

Noah Gonzales

Sr.

WR/LB

9

Emanuel Palafox

Sr.

WR/DB

Sr.

WR/DB

10 Dylan Couto

Sr.

WR/DB

11 Jason Lundquist

Jr.

WR/DB

12 Devin Colston

Jr.

QB/LB

13 Jerardo Ponce

Sr.

WR/LB

14 Luis Vargas

Sr.

RB/S

15 Jack Inderbitzen

Jr.

WB/DE

16 McKade Jensen

Sr.

K/RB/LB

17 Jax Branco

Sr.

RB/LB

18 Jason Muniz

Jr.

WR/DB

19 Daylen Paul

Jr.

WR/DB

20 Ezra Duenas

Sr.

WR/DB

21 Spencer Azevedo Jr.

WB/DB

23 Derek Taylor

Sr.

WR/DE

24 Caden Wood

Jr.

WR/DB

25 Noel Lopez

Sr.

WR/DB

28 Arath Solorio

Sr.

WR/DB

29 Kade Dompeling Jr.

WR/DB

32 Hayden Huff

Sr.

WR/DB

44 Mason Sisneros

Jr.

RB/LB

50 Aiden Souto

Jr.

OL/DL

52 Dylan Baballe

Sr.

OL/DL

53 Bruce Vasquez

Sr.

OL/DL

54 Dakota Maynard

Jr.

OL/DL

55 Landon Gomes

Sr.

OL/DL

57 Jacob Flanery

Sr.

OL/DL

59 Alex Cardenas

Jr.

OL/DL

60 Isaac Agueda

Sr.

OL/DL

61 Cody Bray

Jr.

OL/DL

63 Nicholas Borba

Sr.

OL/DL

64 Jackson Takhar

Jr.

OL/DL

65 Saul Hernandez

Sr.

OL/DL

66 Jeremy Travers

Jr.

OL/DL

68 Caden Peterson

Sr.

OL/DL

73 Brandon Freitas

Sr.

OL/DL

74 Jaden Strickler

Jr.

OL/DL

77 Logan Machado

Jr.

OL/DL

SEASON 10

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16

the Blitz season 10 football tab

2 0 2 1 r e s u lt s

TURLOCK bulldogs

pitman pride

T u r l o c k B u l l d o g s ( 4 -7 ) Aug. 20

Rocklin 41

Turlock 0

Aug. 30

Clayton Valley Charter 35

Turlock 23

Sept. 3

Bullard 14

Turlock 12

Sept. 10

Manteca 44

Turlock 36

Sept. 17

Turlock 23

Oct. 1

Pitman Pride (3-6) Aug. 20

Central Valley 33

Pitman 14

Sept. 3

Patterson 55

Pitman 16

Sept. 17

Edison 55

Pitman 6

Clovis West 10

Sept. 24

Pitman 28

Golden Valley 27

Turlock 35

Pitman 0

Oct. 1

Turlock 35

Pitman 0

Oct. 8

Downey 38

Turlock 14

Oct. 15

Turlock 48

Modesto 25

Oct. 8

Pitman 42

Enochs 19

Oct. 21

Turlock 21

Enochs 7

Oct. 15

Gregori 27

Pitman 21

Oct. 29

Gregori 25

Turlock 15

Oct. 22

Pitman 43

Modesto 28

Nov. 5

Sheldon 36

Turlock 22

Oct. 29

Downey 59

Pitman 14

hilmar yellow jackets

denair coyotes Denair Coyotes (2-6)

Hilmar Yellowjackets (11-3) Aug. 20 Aug. 30 Sept. 4 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29 Nov. 5 Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 27

Hilmar 27 Hilmar 23 Hilmar 40 Hilmar 28 Hilmar 28 Ripon 7 Escalon 24 Hilmar 28 Hilmar 65 Hilmar 49 Hilmar 61 Hilmar 35 Hilmar 41 Escalon 20

Patterson 20 Los Banos 6 Modesto 6 Sonora 21 Livingston 24 Hilmar 3 Hilmar 14 Hughson 0 Modesto Christian 0 Riverbank 0 Los Banos 27 Sonora 31 Casa Roble 8 Hilmar 13

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

17

Aug. 20

Vacaville Christian 24

Denair 6

Sept. 3

Franklin 34

Denair 28 (OT)

Sept. 24

Gustine 23

Denair 6

Oct. 1

Le Grand 49

Denair 12

Oct. 8

Mariposa 36

Denair 0

Oct. 15

Denair by forfeit over

Delhi

Oct. 22

Denair by forfeit over

Orestimba

Oct. 29

Waterford 42

Denair 6

the Blitz season 10 football tab

Denair High Coyotes

Coyotes aims to shock the Southern League

BY CHRISTOPHER CORREA

2018 was a dream season for the Denair Coyotes and head coach Anthony Armas. That year, the team won the Division VII state championship, an accomplishment that has been truly unforgettable by the Denair community.

Armas is always one to reminisce on the 2018 campaign, but reflections on that year have become even more common as he prepares his team for the 2022 season.

“Whenever I look back on that state championship team, I always think about how everybody thought we came out of nowhere,” he said. “But even though everybody else wasn’t expecting us to be good, we thought differently. We knew we had some special talent on our team and we could surprise some people, and that’s what I think is happening again this year.”

The reason behind why many around

the Southern League are underestimating Denair this year is no secret. After finishing last year with an overall record of 2-6, the Coyotes will have the fewest players on their roster in quite some time, currently standing in the mid-teens.

Regardless, the players who Armas has seen at practices thus far have made him excited.

“We’re very short-handed at the varsity level this year, but let me tell you, the kids we’ve had out here have potential,” he said.

Armas explained that the players on the roster also aren’t fazed by their thin roster.

“The kids out here are determined,” Armas said. “Not only do I think that they’re super talented, but there is genuine excitement amongst this group.”

There is always a sense of excitement amongst players before the start of any season, but this rings especially true for the returning players on the Denair roster WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

in 2022. Most of the players on Armas’ roster are expecting to have a football season free of postponements, cancellations and missed games.

“Obviously with 2020, we never got the ball rolling because of COVID that year. And even last year, it wasn’t really full scale for these kids,” Armas said.

“There was a lot of positive tests, lots of guys missing practice and missing games, us having to cancel games and scramble to find opponents, and most of the time us not being able to make up games. This year with the eased testing and restrictions, the players are all excited to finally return to normal.”

Some standout players that Armas is looking forward to see play are fullback Isaac Martinez and lineman Chris Hernandez.

“Isaac is one of the guys returning this year and he’s definitely going to be somebody exciting to watch,” Armas said.

“I’m also looking to see Chris Hernan18

the Blitz season 10 football tab

dez compete out there. Super talented kid, The guys is big in the weight room and shows up to everything.”

Though many players have their strong suits in terms of position, Armas realizes that most if not all of them will have heavy responsibilities on each side of the ball.

“Offensive side and defensively, the kids are going to have to be ready because of short numbers.” he said.

Regardless, the team has confidence, a trait that is essential heading into a new season.

“It’s Denair,” Armas said. “Everybody here is pumped and fired up for football season, just like every season. I can tell you, practicing and getting ready for the first game, we can’t wait for these bleachers to be packed and for our players to experience that again and really feed off of the energy.”

2

Landen Borges

Jr.

QB, DB

3

Emanuel Renteria Jr.

RB, DB

5

Gio Larios

Sr.

RB, DB

7

Isaac Villa Martinez Sr.

RB, DE

8

Anthony Pineda

QB, RB, LB

Sr.

21 Abraham Aguilar Sr.

WR, CB

22 Ezekiel Flowers

Jr.

TE, DE

34 Nathaniel Peral

Sr.

WR, CB

52 Luis Esquivel

So.

OL, DL

54 Jordan Rubio

Jr.

OL, LB

57 Eduardo Zacarias So.

OL, DL

70 Wilder Diaz

Sr.

OL, DL

76 Chris Hernandez

Sr.

OL, DL

Aug. 19 Bye Aug. 26 @ Modesto Christian Sept. 2 vs Riverbank Sept. 10 @ Washington (San Francisco), 2 p.m.

Sept. 16 @ Ripon Christian Sep. 23 vs Gustine Sept. 30 vs Le Grand Oct. 7 vs Mariposa Oct. 14 @ Delhi Oct. 21 vs Orestimba Oct. 28 @ Waterford

2021 sl standings Team Overall 1. Waterford 10-1 2. Le Grand 9-5 3. Ripon Christian 7-3 4. Mariposa 6-6 5. Orestimba 5-6 6. Gustine 3-7 7. Denair 2-6 8. Delhi 0-10 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

19

the Blitz season 10 football tab

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

ccal CAPSULES Pitman Pride Stadium: Joe Debely Stadium Head coach (career record): Eric Reza, second season (3-6) 2021 record: 3-6 overall, 2-3 CCAL Last league title: 2005 Key departures: Emmanuel Lopez, RB/LB, 5-9, 150; Colton Salsig, OL/ DL, 5-11, 240; Anthony Manzo, TE/S, 6-0, 190; Evan Kiely, WR/K, 6-4, 190.

Key returners: Joey Stout, Sr., RB/ DB, 5-10, 175; Alex Rodriguez, Sr., DE, 6-1, 220; Dylan Freeman, Sr., WR/S, 6-2, 190; Drew Walker, Sr., QB, 6-1, 170; Angel Lopez, Sr., OL/DLm 5-10, 220.

Worth noting: After going 15 consecutive seasons without a losing record, the Pride have now recorded three consecutive sub-.500 marks and are 7-16 since the retirement of Tom Tyler …

Eric Reza is the program’s fifth head coach, following Larry Nigro (200405), Brandon Harris (2006-2012), Tyler (2013-2018) and Lance Weckerle (2019-2020).

Turlock Bulldogs Stadium: Joe Debely Stadium Head coach (career record): James Peterson, 14th season (80-56) 2021 record: 4-7 overall, 3-2 CCAL Last league title: 2020 Key departures: Ashton Baucom, DL, 6-0, 210; Logan Hart, WR/S, 6-3, 200; Brock Muirbrook, MLB, 6-1, 180; Sebastian Hilton, DL, 6-3, 235.

Key returners: Andrew Johnson, Jr., WR, 6-5, 180; Alex Velasquez, Sr., CB,

5-10, 150; Logan Bankson, Sr., RB/ DB, 5-11, 175; Nolan Ashbaugh, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 235; Logan Durkee, Jr., OL/DL, 6-1, 255; Joshua Weatherbee, Sr., TE/OLB, 6-1, 255; Martin Bertao, Sr., MLB, 5-11, 20.

Worth noting: The Bulldogs return nine starters on offense and eight on defense, giving them one of the most experienced squads in the region …

Turlock lost for the first time as a member of the Central California Athletic League last season when Downey recorded a 38-14 victory on Oct. 8 at Chuck Hughes Stadium … With 80 career victories, Peterson ranks third on the Bulldogs’ all-time list behind Joe Debely (117) and Les Ratzlaff (106).

Worth noting: The Knights pulled up 17 sophomores to the varsity, 15 of whom started, during the COVID season of 2020. Those sophomore will be seniors this season. “Even though we won league last year, we want to do it again … and do more,” said Plaa.

Enochs Eagles Stadium: Dan Gonsalves Stadium Head coach (career record): Tracy Taub, second season (5-5) 2021 record: 5-5 overall, 1-4 CCAL Last league title: Seeking first Key departures: Keith Orona, QB, 6-5, 210; Kola Babalola, 6-4, 200; Yomi Babalola, RB/LB, 6-2, 230; Isaac Adams WR/DB 6-0, 180; Andreas -Delatorre, MLB, 6-1, 215.

Key returners: Logan Edwards, Jr., DL/OL 6-1, 205; Aiden Muhammad, Jr., RB/CB; Alex Boco, Sr., OLB. Worth noting: The Eagles graduated 32 seniors last year and will be a young club in 2022. “I didn’t realize how many seniors we had until out last game, said Taub. “When those seniors stepped onto the field for the coin toss, I looked back and there were only 12 players on the sideline behind them.” … Yomi Babalola was a three-year starter for Enochs.

Downey Knights Stadium: Chuck Hughes Stadium Head coach (career record): Jeremy Plaa, 16th season (102-57) 2021 record: 9-2 overall, 5-0 CCAL Last league title: 2021 Key departures: Fayzon Allen, WR/ DB, 6-2, 185; David Jones, DB, 6-2, 175; Hayden Grant, WR, 5-7, 150; Braden Sanchez, WR, 6-1, 190; Tyler Sanchez, DE, 6-1, 200.

Key returners: Conner Stoddard, Sr., QB (CCAL MVP); Richard Williams, Sr, ILB (CCAL Defensive Player of the Year), Elijah Reyneveld, Sr., K; Gabe Hernandez, Sr., WR; Camden Rush, Sr., WR; Gavin Garcia, Sr., WR, 6-2, 190; Kimoni Ragland, Sr., RB.

Gregori Jaguars Stadium: Don Lanphear Stadium Head coach (career record): Lamar Wallace, fourth season (14-12)

AVAILABLE NOW 20

the Blitz season 10 football tab

Modesto Panthers Stadium: Multiple venues Head coach (career record): Dylan Miller, fourth season (3-21) 2021 record: 2-8 overall, 0-5 CCAL Last league title: 2013 Key departures: Jesse Pulido, LT, 6-0, 250; Eduardo Perez, G, 5-8m, 275; Ethan Angle, OL/DL, 5-11, 245.

Key returners: Eli McCabe, Sr. QB, 6-2, 170; Heston Blom, Sr., WR, 6-2, 180; Isaiah Rodriguez, Jr., CB/WR, 6-1, 175; Melea Uili, Soph. RB/MLB, 6-0, 220 Worth noting: The Panthers have a core of young skill players that will serve them well in the seasons to come.

“It’s sort of the few and the proud right now, but I feels like we’ve got the right guys said Miller. “We’re ready to make a leap.” … Miller is a 2006 graduate of Modesto High.

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2021 record: 6-5 overall, 4-1 CCAL Last league title: 2017 Key departures: Cruz Marines, QB, 5-10, 195; Jayden Miller RB/DB, 5-6, 170; Jake McBay, WR/DB, 5-11, 175; Zach Fernandes, OL/DL, 6-2, 275 Key returners: Reggieon Foster, Jr., WR/DB, 5-11, 170; Ayden Powers, Jr., RB/DB, 5-8, 155; Dorian Ramirez, Jr., OL/DL, 6-5, 355; Ethan Lowell, Jr.., OL/DL, 6-3, 240; Anthony Todd, Jr. TE/LB, 5-10, 190; Michael Marsden, Jr. RB, 5-8, 150.

Worth noting: With a small returning senior class, this Jags team will be junior heavy in 2022.

2 0 9 M A G A Z I N E . C O M 7/30/2022 7:07:32 AM

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FIRST TIME CUSTOMER AC TUNE UP SPECIAL

expires 9-30-2022** *exclusions apply

Wedding Cakes Special Event Cakes Themed Cup Cakes Holiday Cakes Pastries & Pies

Lic # 312288

Combined customer rebates of up to

$

1250

*

on new systems 10 years parts & labor on new systems*

*exclusions apply* *expires 9-30-2022

FREE 2ND OPINION

CELEBRATING OUR

41st Anniversary

Serving our Community for 53 Years 1969 - 2022 Celebrating 53 years of Great Service in the Valley

2225 Geer Rd., Turlock, CA

209.632.7596 800.722.1611

(209) 668-0928 otpastries.com

RATING

Wallyfalkes.com WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

21

the Blitz season 10 football tab

95 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE IN TURLOCK 95 95 95 YEARS YEARS YEARS OF OF OF DEDICATED DEDICATED DEDICATED SERVICE SERVICE SERVICE IN IN IN TURLOCK TURLOCK TURLOCK 95 95 YEARS 95 YEARS YEARS OF OF DEDICATED OF DEDICATED DEDICATED SERVICE SERVICE SERVICE IN DEDICATED TURLOCK IN IN TURLOCK TURLOCK 96 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE IN TURLOCK 95 YEARS OF SERVICE 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021

2021

Print Shop, Inc. Print Shop, Inc. Inc. Print Shop, Since 1919 Print Print Shop, Print Shop, Shop, Inc. Inc. Inc. Since 1919 Since 1919 Since Since Since 1919 1919 1919 Print Print Print Shop, Shop, Shop, Inc. Inc. Inc.

209.634.5456 Si 209.634.5456 Since Since Since 1919 1919 1919 209.634.5456 209.634.5456 209.634.5456 209.634.5456 209.

We SUPPORT We SUPPORT 209.634.5456 209.634.5456 209.634.5456 We We We SUPPORT SUPPORT SUPPORT We SUPPORT We SUPPORT OUR LOCAL We We We SUPPORT SUPPORT SUPPORT OUR OUR OUR OUR LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL OUR LOCAL OUR LOCAL Youth SPORTS Youth SPORTS OUR OUR OUR LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL Youth Youth Youth SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS Youth SPORTS Youth SPORTS Youth Youth YouthSPORTS SPORTS SPORTS

Blown Blown Blown Blown Blown Away Salon Blown Away Away Away Salon Salon Salon Away Salon TREASURE Spa Blown & && Spa Spa Away Salon &&Spa Spa Blown Blown Blown HUNTERS 315 Crane Ave., Turlock 315 Crane 315 315 Crane Ave., Crane Ave., Turlock Ave., Turlock Turlock & Spa Away Salon Historic Downtown Turlock 315 Crane Ave., Turlock Away Away Away Salon Salon Salon

209.669.7733 209.669.7733 blownawaysalonandspa.com blownawaysalonandspa.com blownawaysalonandspa.com blownawaysalonandspa.com 315 Crane Ave., Turlock blownawaysalonandspa.com 209.669.7733 blownawaysalonandspa.com 315 Crane Ave., Turlock 315 315 315 Crane Crane Crane Ave., Ave., Ave., Turlock Turlock Turlock WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022 22 209.669.7733 209.669.7733 209.669.7733 209.669.7733 300 E. Main St., Turlock • (209) 668-3303 209.669.7733 209.669.7733 209.669.7733

&&&Spa &Spa Spa Spa

the Blitz season 10 football tab

Michael Rocha 2100 Geer Rd Ste B 209.485.5228 mrocha@homesatatlantic.com DRE Lic #02006413

We SUPPORT

OUR LOCAL Est.1986 32 Years

Youth SPORTS

EXIT REALTY CONSULTANTS

WWW.EXITHOME.COM WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

23

the Blitz season 10 football tab

Thank You TO ALL OF OUR ADVERTISERS FOR SUPPORTING THIS FOOTBALL GUIDE. We could not do this without you.

Michael Rocha, Atlantic Realty Applegate Teeples Bank of Stockton Direct Appliance Olde Tyme Pastries Top Notch Kennels Western Valley Insurance Wally Falkes Smith Chevrolet J Bixler Inspections Reed Realty Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Balanced Books Harder’s Print Shop Wahl, Willemse & Wilson, LLP, CPA’s Lancaster Painting WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2022

Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Turlock Auto Plaza Woods Furniture Silva Injury Law Barber Club Rico, Pfitzer, Pires & Associates Exit Realty Cycle Masters Nutcher Milk Main Street Footers Cen Cal Detailing Elegant Bull Treasure Hunters Turlock Irrigation Oak Valley Bank Turlock Mosquito Abatement 24

the Blitz season 10 football tab