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Kickoff '09: Small schools
See what's in store for the season.
COACHES POLL
Academy League
1. St. Margaret’s, 15-0 in 2008, 16 poll points
2. Brethren Christian, 4-7, 12
3. Sage Hill, 2-8, 7
4. Crean Lutheran South, 0-0, 5
(Teams receive 4 points for a first-place vote, 3 points for second-place, etc.)
OTHER SCHOOLS IN THE SMALL SCHOOLS PREVIEW
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
St. Margaret’s. The reigning state small school champion enters the season with the longest active winning streak in the state – a county-record 43 games. But that streak could face a major test on Sept. 11 when the Tartans play host to Parker of San Diego. Parker was the squad that St. Margaret’s beat out for the Southern berth into last year’s inaugural state championship game for small schools. If the Tartans can win their first five games, they could tie the Southern Section record for most consecutive wins – 48 by Oaks Christian. St. Margaret’s is seeking a fourth consecutive CIF title.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Crean Lutheran South. The first-year program makes its debut. The Saints will be young and inexperienced but likely enthusiastic. QB/safety David Calderwood, the team’s lone senior, says the team hopes to surprise some opponents this fall. The Saints could start a handful of freshmen.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Will Hinn, Saddleback Valley Christian, RB/SS: The versatile senior produced huge offensive numbers last season.
John Murayama, St. Margaret’s, RB: The diminutive senior rushed for 1,300 yards and 28 touchdowns last season despite being slowed by injury. If he stays healthy, he could have a monster season.
Mike Schmall, St. Margaret’s LB: The junior middle linebacker has the size and speed to emerge as major force in 2009.
Jeff Worthy, Whittier Christian, NG: The junior has developed into a Division I-A recruit.
OTHER TOP PLAYERS
Brethren Christian: Ryan Randall, Sr., RB/DE
Capistrano Valley Christian: Phillip Wilhelm, Sr., G/LB; Neakzaad Horriat, Jr., RB
Crean Lutheran South: David Calderwood, Sr., QB/FS
Eastside Christian – Curtis Rominger, Sr., QB/S
Fairmont Prep: Kashif Williams, Sr., TE/NT; David Jocson, So., RB
Liberty Christian: Sam Salgado, Jr., QB/SS
Saddleback Valley Christian: Danny Adam, Sr., FB/LB; Chris Adam, Sr., WR/NG
Sage Hill: Connor Gaughan, Sr., TE/DE; Andy Multari, Sr., WR/CB
St. Margaret’s: Will Findiesen, Sr., DE; Chris Adams, Sr., FS; JT Carpenter, Sr., WR/SS
St. Michael’s Prep: Joseph Rivero, Sr., RB
Whittier Christian: Steven Anderson, Jr., QB
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Parker of San Diego at St. Margaret’s, Sept. 11. This is a matchup of the top two small school programs in Southern California.
TOUGHEST SCHEDULE
Whittier Christian. The Heralds beat out St. Margaret’s for the honor. Whittier Christian plays two reigning Southern Section champions in St. Margaret’s and Paraclete. St. Margaret’s has one giant game, vs. Parker.
OTHER LEAGUE PREVIEWS:
Garden Grove, Golden West leagues
Orange, Orange Coast leagues
Pacific Coast, Sea View leagues
South Coast and Sunset leagues
Trinity league, small schools
