University football coach Mark Cunningham isn’t using a cliché or so-called “coach speak” when he talks about the importance of focusing on the next game. He’s drawing upon his life experience.
A battle with throat cancer taught the veteran to stay grounded and vigilant about many things, including the Trojans’ surprising 4-0 start.
“You take it game by game, day by day,” Cunningham said. “(Cancer) puts everything into perspective. … It’s made me recognize what’s important.”
Last Wednesday, Cunningham received a five-year clean bill of health. He fought an advanced stage of cancer with nine weeks of chemotherapy and seven weeks of radiation.
“The doctor said that I was cured, but for me, I’ll never be cured,” Cunningham said. “It never leaves your mind.”
Two days after his healthy check-up, the Trojans defeated Estancia, 28-0, to improve to 4-0 for the first time since 2008. They also surpassed their victory total from last season (three).
“I’m pleased with the start,” Cunningham said. “Our goal was that we got better every game and that our players focused on one game at a time. … It’s great that we’re 4-0 but it doesn’t mean anything. The most important thing is the next game.”
University plays host to Sage Hill (1-4) on Friday before opening the Pacific Coast League against Beckman at Tustin on Oct. 9.
The Pacific Coast League has been a struggle for the Trojans the past seven seasons. They have two victories and have been winless the past three seasons.
But as their fast start suggests, the Trojans appear improved. Linebacker Brandon Mattson has been a pleasant surprise with a team-leading 44 total tackles. Quarterback Neil Boudreau (6 TDs passing) and running backs Sam Winder (309 yards) and Matt Abellaneda (293 yards) have paced the Trojans’ hybrid wing-T offense.
University, picked to finish last in the Pacific Coast League, is averaging just more than 211 yards rushing per game.
“Where we’re most improved is that we have depth,” Cunningham said. “We’ve got a good chance to do well in league.”
TRITONS REBOUND
San Clemente will be back in the spotlight Friday when it plays at Tesoro (4-1) in a South County showdown on Fox Sports West. The Tritons (4-1) have won four consecutive games after a season-opening loss at San Juan Hills (5-0).
“The kids are starting to mesh,” San Clemente coach Jaime Ortiz said. “Losing Sam Darnold last year, and losing Riley Whimpey and a couple other senior starters, it took a while for some of the kids to step up.”
Ortiz praised junior tight end Isaac Rex, senior tight end Cole Fotheringham and junior quarterback Jack Sears.
Click below to view a preview of San Clemente vs. Tesoro via the OCVarsity Gridiron show.
NOTES
Laguna Hills junior middle linebacker Matthew Davisson recorded 18 total tackles (eight solo) in a 14-7 victory at Irvine on Friday. The Hawks (4-0) play host to Valencia (4-0) this Friday. … Coach Dick Coury was among the former Mater Dei champions honored by the Monarchs before their game against Edison. Coury, who went on to coach at Cal State Fullerton and the USFL among other stops, coached Rollinson at Mater Dei. “That meant a lot,” Rollinson said of hoisting Coury’s arm before the game. “And he talked to the kids in the locker room.” … Rollinson on Edison coach Dave White: “I just admire that guy. … His club battles.” … Mater Dei junior wide receiver Osiris St. Brown has been offered by UCLA. Senior wide out AJ Collins has added offers from Arizona and Montana.
Contact the writer: dalbano@ocregister.com
