FOOTBALL WEEKEND REPORT: Bobcats win season debut for first time since 2009

Holy Cross overpowers SACS in second half; Southside wins Lock’s first game

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED: Burbank, East Central, Harlandale, Highlands, Holy Cross, Sam Houston, South San, Southside.

PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

It’s hard to blame South San if it wants to continue its series with Holmes.

After losing three consecutive season openers to Harlandale, the Bobcats (1-0) resumed their series with Holmes Friday at South San Stadium. Just as it had the last time the teams met in 2009, South San prevailed.

The Bobcats scored twice in the first half and held on for a 14-6 win over Holmes (0-1).

Justin Acosta, who led South San with 73 rushing yards on 10 carries, dashed six yards for a 7-0 lead with 5:05 left in the first quarter. The Bobcats defense added a score in the second quarter when Ryan Hernandez ran 15 yards with a fumble.

Armed with a 14-point lead, South San had all the points it needed to record the win. The Bobcats limited Holmes to 231 total yards and recovered four fumbles. South San mustered 209 yards.

Holmes scored its touchdown on a two-yard run from Lawrence Jackson with 6:38 to play in the third quarter.

South San quarterback Isaiah Gutierrez passed for 53 yards. Tyrell Courtney caught two passes for 34 yards.

Holy Cross 31, San Antonio Christian 13

The Knights defense kept highly regarded San Antonio Christian quarterback Andrew Hawkins in check and their offense poured it on after halftime for an impressive win Saturday at Harlandale Memorial Stadium.
Holy Cross (1-0) received more than 100 rushing yards from Greg Scott and Cisco Flores.

Flores passed 86 yard to T.J. Dennie for a go-ahead touchdown with 8:21 until halftime. The Lions (0-1) tied it 6-6 as time expired in the half, as Andy Griffes nailed a 27-yard field goal, his second in the game.

Holy Cross scored the next four touchdowns.

Genaro Coleman scored on a one-yard run with 6:35 remaining in the third quarter. David Sanchez recorded the first of three Knights touchdowns in the fourth quarter, catching a 20-yard pass from Flores (9 of 20, 151 yards).

Ahead 19-6, Holy Cross added a seven-yard scoring run from Flores (175 yards, 15 carries) and an 80-yard burst from Scott (138 yards, 15 carries) with 4:24 left.

San Antonio Christian back Christian Fornicola (95 yards, 8 carries) ran 62 yards for a touchdown little more than a minute later.

Hawkins, who passed for more than 2,000 yards last season, completed 14 of 24 throws for 120 yards and no touchdown passes. The Knights outgained the Lions 479-183.

Scott led Holy Cross with 61 yards on two receptions. Dennie and Sanchez each caught two passes for 33 yards.

Southside 36, Burbank 13

The Cardinals (1-0) won their first game under former Gonzales coach Ricky Lock, defeating Burbank (0-1) Friday in a non-district game at Southside.

Lock coached Gonzales to the Class 3A state quarterfinals in 2013.

No scoring or statistical information about the game was available.

Harlandale 17, Devine 7

Devine blocked a Harlandale field goal with 6:27 remaining Thursday at Harlandale Memorial Stadium, but the Indians (1-0) made the most of a second chance.

Lenin Romero connected on a 23-yard field goal to seal the non-district victory with 2:02 to play.

Harlandale recovered two fumbles and produced an interception in the first half. The Warhorses drove to the Harlandale 1 on the game’s first possession before fumbling into the end zone.

The Indians capitalized with rushing touchdowns from senior back John Aguirre (109 yards, 28 carries) and junior quarterback Jacob Delgado, who made his first start. Delgado completed 10 of 15 passes for 140 yards.

Devine (0-1), which outgained the Indians 309-270 in total yartdage, cut the Indians’ lead to 14-7 with 3:14 until halftime. Joe Guerrero (116 yards, 19 carries) scored on a one-yard plunge.

Ian Martinez led Harlandale with 105 reception yards on five catches.

MORE TO COME

GIRLS BASKETBALL: Lamkin was a beacon of hope for Sam Houston

Veteran coach’s players vow to honor her legacy

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED: Sam Houston.

PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Sam-Houston-coach-taught-life-lessons-5726962.php

Milyse Lamkin traveled far and wide, but her heart never left San Antonio’s east side.

The Sam Houston girls basketball coach died from cancer last Thursday at age 52. Although Lamkin was nearly four years into her battle with the disease and taking a medical leave of absence, she wasn’t ready to give up the job she loved. It was understood that Lamkin planned to coach the Hurricanes for her 10th season this winter.

“We lost a champion,” Sam Houston football coach and athletic coordinator Gary Green said. “She fought very, very hard – as she always has.”

After Lamkin battled her illness so bravely and so long, those around her were shocked by how suddenly cancer claimed her.

“The last time I talked to her (Aug. 18),” Hurricanes volleyball coach and girls athletic coordinator Courtney Davis said, “she was trying to get her body stronger so she could move forward a little more. To find it was coming to an end was truly a surprise to all of us.”

Green knew Lamkin from the time when he was a substitute teacher at Sam Houston and Lamkin was a student. Years later, when both were pursuing other careers, he and the 1982 graduate talked about returning to the school to teach and coach.

“She was like my little sister,” Green said. “We used to talk about, maybe, going back to Sam and getting everything back on track one day. And it ended up that we both applied there.

“Her biggest motivation was doing for the east side. She was very proud of being a Sam Houston Cherokee. You didn’t call her a Hurricane. She took a lot of pride in the east side. She never moved away.”

Although she was devoted to developing the young athletes she coached into responsible citizens, Lamkin’s commitment to her community didn’t end at the school’s doors. Like her mother, Mildred Lamkin, Lamkin believed in doing her part to make San Antonio’s east side a better place to live.

“After basketball practice, she would go right to church,” said Sam Houston senior Dajah Thomas, who played three years on Lamkin’s basketball team. “She was the choir director at her church. She just helped a lot of people. Most coaches don’t do as much as she did.

“At school, she would help people who didn’t even play sports. Her appearance and her presence were so strong, you couldn’t miss her walking down the halls or down the street.”

Davis was Lamkin’s assistant and succeeded her in the coordinator position. She knew Lamkin for her last 14 years and admired her devotion to improving the area.

“She was very well-known. There was nowhere you could go where people didn’t know Milyse, and she helped everyone,” Davis said. “I guess it was just her upbringing. She was not just there behind the scenes. She would go out and be supportive. She followed in her mother’s footsteps. She had a big-time commitment to the community.

“She spoke out and spoke up for the kids.”

In nine years as Sam Houston’s coach, Lamkin guided the team to a 172-118 record and six district titles. Last year, the Hurricanes qualified for the Class 3A playoffs and finished second in District 28-3A despite starting the season with a 2-15 record.

Lamkin had missed more than a month of the season, due to an unanticipated hip surgery. Her team’s turnaround coincided with her return to the bench.

“It was hard for me, because I wasn’t able to be there for the girls,” Lamkin said last February, “but I left it in the Lord’s hands.”

Before taking the coaching reins at her alma mater, Lamkin was one of Sam Houston’s greatest female athletes. She went on to play both basketball and softball at St. Mary’s University, helping the Rattlers win the

1986 NAIA softball national championship.

She was inducted into the St. Mary’s athletic hall of fame in 1999.

Green said Lamkin was so talented that his brother christened her “the female Dr. J,” a reference to high-flying NBA hall of famer Julius Erving. SAISD assistant athletic director Brian Clancy witnessed her abilities in pickup basketball games at King Middle School in the early 1990s.

“Milyse was a tremendous ballplayer,” Clancy said. “We played Saturdays and Sundays in the gym at King. She would play with the men of the east side, and she could hang with them. She could really play ball.”

Lamkin found her way back to Sam Houston as a special education teacher and coach after sampling other occupations. She sold ads for a radio station, worked as a flight attendant and managed a local department store before embarking on a 23-year SAISD career.

“I guess it was just wanting to experience everything,” Davis said. “She was a very well-rounded person. Everything she went through helped her become who she was.

“She made each one of us stronger.”

Lamkin helped shape Thomas from a strong-willed young teenager into the Hurricanes’ leader.

“Dajah was one of Coach Lamkin’s projects,” Davis said. “Lamkin worked with her until she became better and better and better. This year, she’ll be our leader. The other girls look up to her.”

When Thomas spoke to her coach on the first day of school, Lamkin expressed her intent to return and coach her basketball team this year.

The senior said she came to see Lamkin’s beliefs reflected in herself as their relationship became stronger.

Thomas spoke to her Sam Houston’s teammates last Thursday after they learned of Lamkin’s death. The senior passed along a message of hope and determination.

“What I basically (told the team) was that Coach Lamkin would not want you to cry,” Thomas said. “Stand up and be strong. Live for her. Don’t get down.

“We’re going to play our basketball games in her name. We’re going to state in her name. We’re going to do what it would take to make Coach Lamkin happy. We’re not going to give up.”

Memorial services for Lamkin will take place 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Paul Methodist Church, 500 N. Center St.

FOOTBALL: Uvalde answers McCollum’s challenge for win over rival

Coyotes score last three touchdowns after Cowboys gain lead

PLEASE RETURN TO THIS STORY TUESDAY FOR A LINK TO THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

McCollum and Uvalde are no longer in the same district, but the rivalry remains strong.

Although the final margin wasn’t indicative, the non-district game between former District 29-4A rivals was about as close as could be through three quarters. Uvalde (1-0) scored the last three touchdowns for a 27-8 win Friday at Harlandale Memorial Stadium.

“It’s always a great game,” said Uvalde quarterback Jerry Almaraz, who ran for 146 yards and two touchdowns. “It was fortunate for us it worked out, but it’s a great rivalry. Both teams played hard.”

McCollum (0-1) took an 8-7 lead with 2:40 left in the third quarter when senior quarterback Ralph Vidal scored on a one-yard quarterback sneak. The Cowboys took the lead on a two-point conversion run by Jeff Valdez.

“(Uvalde) is a good team,” said Vidal, who worked out with Almaraz in the offseason. “We knew it’d be a close game. When we came back, we knew they’d come at us.”

Following a 30-yard kickoff return, the Coyotes drove 50 yards to regain the lead. Trae Garcia, who accounted for two of Uvalde’s last three scores, ran seven yards for the clincher, 50 seconds before the third quarter ended.

McCollum’s Noe Trevino returned the second-half kickoff 66 yards to the Coyotes 19. The Cowboys lost a fumble on the next play, but Valdez pounced on a loose ball near midfield six plays later. It launched a 13-play, go-ahead scoring drive.

Uvalde roared 62 yards in four plays after taking the opening kickoff. The Coyotes led 7-0 on a 25-yard run from Almarez. Almaraz ran on the last two plays of drive, covering 45 yards.

McCollum was stopped three times inside Uvalde territory in the first half, twice on fourth down.

“It hurt (Uvalde) a little bit, not having (Zach) Sanchez at full strength,” McCollum coach Juan Hinojosa said. “It made them a little one-dimensional, but Almaraz is a dual threat.”

Cowboys back Mike Ramirez sustained a minor knee injury that kept him out of the fourth quarter, but is expected back next Friday.

FOOTBALL: Week 1 previews (Saturday’s games)

# – denotes current San Antonio South Side Sports area ranking

SATURDAY

Floresville (0-0) vs. #7 Highlands (0-0) at Alamo Stadium, 7 p.m.

This should be a good first test for both teams.

Highlands return quarterback John Cervantes, who took the reins when Jordan DeLuna was lost to injury. Cervantes should fortify a ball-controlling ground game, along with De-Morriay Richardson and Quindon Boston.

They’ll run behind a veteran line, led by third-year starter Tristan Zaragoza.

Darian Todd, Denny Peterson and Bruce Moody are candidates to replace a bevy of reliable receivers who graduated.

Owls strong safety Joseph Mangaccat will be tasked with containing Floresville junior quarterback Koby Wilkerson. In his first season as a starter, Wilkerson emerged as a run-pass threat, but was more effective as a runner.

He’ll seek out receiver Troy Hughley. Darnelle Odom and Highlands’ defenders should be effective against a Floresville line that returns just one starter.

The Tigers’ defense has three starters back, including linebackers Preston Taggs and Luke Smith.

Floresville had dominated the series until last year, not only winning the previous three games but winning them by sizable margins. The scales seem to have tilted toward the Owls.

Series leader (record): Floresville (3-1). 2013 score: Highlands 17, Floresville 14. 2014 favorite: Highlands.

San Antonio Christian (0-0) vs. #1 Holy Cross (0-0) at Alamo Stadium, 7 p.m.

With the Holy Bowl on hiatus, this budding rivalry looms a little larger in the Knights’ hearts and minds, despite the fact that it won’t impact a district race – as it has in the past couple of seasons.

The Lions have stepped up to TAPPS District 2-I while the Knights remain in 3-II. Expect it to remain a tight game and a measuring stick for both programs.

Fans may well see it as a battle of highly-regarded quarterbacks, pitting Holy Cross senior Cisco Flores against San Antonio Christian’s Andrew Hawkins. They are a contrast in styles, but both put up big numbers each game.

Flores and Greg Scott give Holy Cross a big advantage on the ground, while Hawkins aims to fill the air with passes.

The Knights’ defensive front must keep the pressure on Hawkins and prevent him from finding secondary targets. Jeremy Martinez, who had six sacks last year, should lead the charge.

Defensive lineman Jared Ahlstrom and linebacker Hayden Dennis will lead a largely untested defense that will hope to contain Flores and limit his play-action.

San Antonio Christian is coached by former Fox Tech coach Denny Peel.

Holy Cross has won each of the last two seasons, including a 25-23 nailbiter in 2012.

Series leader (record): unknown. 2013 score: Holy Cross 22, San Antonio Christian 14. 2014 favorite: Holy Cross.

FOOTBALL: Week 1 previews (Friday’s games)

# – denotes current San Antonio South Side Sports area ranking

FRIDAY

Brooks Academy (0-0) vs. Leakey (0-0) at Butch Wools Stadium, D’Hanis, 7:30 p.m.

This season is something of a fresh start for Brooks Academy, with a new quarterback and several young players. The Bengals will want to make it a good one.

Leakey returns each starters on both sides of the ball from last year’s 2-7 team. The Eagles have in advantage in that starting quarterback Lorenzo Rodriguez is returning. He’ll be a player to watch on offense, along with Dimitri Perez. Linebacker Dee Bort is a defensive standout for the District 15-2A Division II squad.

Brooks Academy is looking for its first win since 2009.

The Bengals will look to quarterback Dennis Perales and lineman Christien Pedraza for leadership. Alejandro Gonzalez could be a player to watch.

Series leader (record): unknown. 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: Leakey.

#15 Burbank (0-0) at Southside (0-0), 7:30 p.m.

It’s the first game for Southside coach Ricky Lock, who has fashioned an impressive resume and likes the challenge of rebuilding. After guiding Gonzales to its second Class 3A quarterfinal appearance in his five years at the school, Lock is trying to make his mark with the Cardinals.

The rebuilding project at Burbank is in its third year under Mark Perez and has come along quite nicely. The Bulldogs qualified for the postseason for the first time since 1978 last year.

Burbank senior quarterback Daniel Tello has had flashes of brilliance during his first two seasons. He also lost most of last year to injury. If healthy, Tello could be a difference maker in this non-district battle.

Southside junior Johnny Trevino returns with a year of experience and a chance to be an impact player.

Offensively, it may come down to which team can move the chains most consistently.

The Cardinals have won the last eight games in the series, which has been o hold since 2010.

Series leader (record): Southside (13-3). 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: Burbank.

Carrizo Springs (0-0) vs. #12 Memorial (0-0) at Edgewood Veterans Memorial Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

Both teams were hit hard by graduation, but Memorial has an ace in the hole. Quarterback Alfred Ramos is back for his third year as a starter.

The Minutemen will need to develop a couple of new playmakers as the season goes on. Junior receiver Adam Villanueva is one candidate.

Defensively, Memorial should be solid with Jose Pargas and Greg Bolden returning.

Carrizo Springs will have a new coach this year. Backup quarterback Jesse Rodriguez and No. 3 rusher Angel Gonzales will step into larger roles.

The Wildcats defeated Edison in Week 1 last year and should be capable of keeping the game close.

The teams have not played since 1991.

Series leader (record): Carrizo Springs (4-0). 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: Memorial.

Holmes (0-0) at #11 South San (0-0), 7:30 p.m.

South San coach Marcus Booker is in his third year with the program and has made tangible progress. Coming off a winless season, Holmes offers a chance for the Bobcats to get off to a 1-0 start and use it to build toward greater signs of success.

With linemen Adrian Diaz and Robert Sifuentes back, South San should have the makings of a consistent ground game. Justin Acosta and Willie Sanchez will be counted upon to carry the ball.

Moving the ball through the air has been a challenge for South San in recent seasons. The task will fall to senior Isaiah Gutierrez this season.

Holmes defensive end Josh Gilmore is a threat to keep pressure on Gutierrez. The Huskies will try to achieve consistency themselves with six returning starters. Chris Rios could be a player to watch.

The teams haven’t played since 2009, but South San has a two-game winning streak in the series.

Series leader (record): Holmes (6-4). 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: South San.

Jay (0-0) vs. #5 Brackenridge (0-0) at Alamo Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

Oklahoma State recruit Ramon Richards would seem to be an irreplaceable loss for Brackenridge. But quarterback Antonio Lopez doesn’t have to replicate Richards. He just needs to build on his successes in spot duty last year.

The Eagles may be a little stronger on defense than offense this year, led by Robert Allen, Eric Moya and Frank Soto. Make mistake, though, Brack has athletes on offense.

In his third varsity season, Trey Mathis is an explosive back. Lopez will have a good cadre of targets to throw to.

Jay will try to control the ball on the ground and look for deep strikes from junior quarterback Moses Reynolds. The Mustangs could have a dangerous offense.

They also feature a solid cover cornerback in Tre Fontenot.

Jay and Brack have met once, and only once, in 1992. Wheatley is not Brackenridge.

The Mustangs won that game 27-24. This one could be as close.

Series leader (record): Jay (1-0). 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: Brackenridge.

Jefferson (0-0) at Antonian (0-0), 7:30 p.m.

Jefferson has been slow out of the gate in the past couple of football seasons. This year’s Mustangs have a little more experience and should have better results.

That may not start in Week 1, however, as Antonian will be a formidable opening opponent.

The Apaches, under former MacArthur coach Van Fuschak, are favored to win TAPPS District 2-I after taking second in 2013. Antonian returns just three offensive starters but has a good contingent back on defense, including defensive tackle Brandon Latham and linebackers Sam Bishop and Noah Burns.

The Apaches have an outstanding back in speedy junior Daniel Rosenfield, who ran for 1,919 last year.

Jefferson quarterback Weston Redding, son of coach Doyle Redding, is back for his third varsity season. The Mustangs also have a returning 1,000-yard-plus back in Jesse Flores.

Offensive execution will be key for Jefferson. The Mustangs also will need to put pressure on Apaches quarterback Peyton Bryan.

Series leader (record): none, first meeting. 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: Antonian.

#14 Kennedy (0-0) vs. Victoria East (0-0) at Victoria Memorial Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

The Rockets have chosen a tough opener for first-year coach Michael Inco.

Victoria East has been a playoff contender the last two years in District 30-4A. Although that will be a tougher task to accomplish in the revamped 30-5A, but they’ll pose a formidable challenge for Kennedy.

That could be a benefit for the Rockets, as they prepare for rugged 27-5A.

The Titans return 5-foot-7 quarterback Jonathan Ortega, who ran for more than 1,000 yards and passed for nearly 1,500 last year. He’s a Texas State baseball commit.

Running back Laken Williams is another Titan to watch.

If last year is the guide, the Titans will look to win shootouts this year.

Kennedy may not be up to that at this point, but returning quarterback Eric Lira is promising.

Series leader (record): none, first meeting. 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: Victoria East.

Pleasanton (0-0) vs. #9 Edison (0-0) at SAISD Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

Edison looked good in 7-on-7 competition with returning quarterback Jonathan Hernandez and is aiming for a better season in 2014.

Pleasanton, under coach Tab Dumont, always is solid – as are the Golden Bears under Albert Torres – so this should be a good opener for Edison.

The Eagles will be strong on the offensive line with all-stater Crockett Mokry and three-year starter Emanuel Leija. Sophomore John Lopez may start at quarterback.

Pleasanton also has size on the defensive side with 290-pounder Colton Knapp.

Edison’s small, quick line will need to rise to the challenge.

Defensive improvement will be crucial to Edison’s playoff hopes, and the Bears have the personnel to be much stronger in that area with seven returning starters. Defensive lineman Steven Sanchez is a force up front.

Edison’s last win in what has become a traditional season opener was 26-23 in 2010. Pleasanton has won the last three meetings.

Series leader (record): Pleasanton (3-1). 2013 score: Pleasanton 40, Edison 7. 2014 favorite: Edison.

#13 Sam Houston (0-0) at Bandera (0-0), 7:30 p.m.

When the Hurricanes were in Class 3A, they didn’t back down from the challenge of playing the best in the class. That trend continues, although what was 3A is now 4A and Sam Houston has moved up to 5A … if you follow me.

Bandera traditionally has had one of the area’s strongest 4A programs.

The Bulldogs are led by backs Landon Ventura and Alex Willoughby Gonzalez. Linebacker Averie Mansfield leads Bandera’s defense.

Sam Houston will have more stability offensively, with talented junior Raymonte Prime back for his second year at quarterback. Back Devin Harris and receiver Travon Vaughns should be improved.

The Hurricanes defense, which returns just two starters, should face a stern test from the Bulldogs.

Bandera and Sam Houston, remarkably, haven’t played since 1951.

Series leader (record): Bandera (3-1). 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: Bandera.

San Marcos (0-0) at #3 East Central (0-0), 7:30 p.m.

The Hornets begin their second season under East Central alum Clint Hartman with a young team but one that should fit well into the spread offense he favors.

Quarterback Justin Upshaw-Mendoza was impressive in limited duty last year, as was back Javion Polk. Wideout Wanya Ward is one of the area’s most exciting players.

The defense will be built around lineman Blake Nichols. Cornerback Colin Padalecki should be a player to watch.

San Marcos also was hit hard by graduation, but the Rattlers return quarterback David Hamilton, who started two years ago.

While the UIL changed its classifications this year, San Marcos remained in Class 5A. Under coach Mark Soto, the Rattlers made strides in their district. They should be competitive in murderous District 28-5A.

This stacks up as a game worth watching. win Saturday.

Series leader (record): East Central (7-3). 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: East Central.

Uvalde (0-0) vs. #8 McCollum (0-0) at Harlandale Memorial Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

They are no longer district rivals, but the action on the field should be just as intense.

McCollum-Uvalde games aren’t always close – the Cowboys’ 56-14 win in 2012 is an example – but they’re always intriguing.

The Cowboys have senior three-year starter Ralph Leal healthy again at quarterback. Coupled with junior back Mike Ramirez and speedy Jeff Valdez, who’ll see an increased role, and the Cowboys should hold their own and then some offensively.

With Jacob Valdez and Jeffrey Trevino, should be able to keep pressure on run-pass threat Jerry Almaraz, the Coyotes’ quarterback. Almaraz is one of 15 returning starters from Uvalde’s 29-4A playoff team.

Nine are on the offensive side of the ball, including leading rusher Zach Sanchez.

Watch out for fourth-quarter fireworks. The Cowboys topped 50 points against Uvalde in 2011 and 2012, winning both games. The winning team has scored more than 40 points each of the last five years.

Series leader (record): Uvalde (6-4). 2013 score: Uvalde 41, McCollum 24. 2014 favorite: Uvalde.

Victoria West (0-0) at #2 Southwest (0-0), 7:30 p.m.

The Dragons launch into the season with an intriguing matchup against athletic Victoria West.

Southwest needs to make no apologies in that regard, but it’s skill-position players are somewhat young, whereas the Warriors will be counting on veterans.

Senior quarterback Bowen Crisp returns for his second season at the controls and should be a valued leader for the Dragons.

Exciting sophomore Tyrone Middleton will join experienced Reilly Riggs in the backfield. Under Southwest coach Peter Wagner, the Dragons have always been deep at that position.

Crisp must become more of a threat through the air for Southwest to keep defenses honest. With four returning linemen, expect that to materialize.

With only two defensive starters back, West will challenge the Dragons. Back Zevaughn Shelton racked up more than 1,300 rushing yards and receiver Gamarquis Girdy is a sprint champion.

The more consistent defense is likely to win this game.

Series leader (record): none, first meeting. 2013 score: did not play. 2014 favorite: Victoria West.

FOOTBALL: Week 1 previews (Thursday’s games)

# – denotes current San Antonio South Side Sports area ranking

THURSDAY

#6 Central Catholic (0-0) vs. #10 Lanier (0-0) at Alamo Stadium, 7 p.m.

There seem to be a lot of variables that could factor into this game, which is how you know it’s Week 1, I guess.

Central Catholic has a fairly veteran squad, with 10 returning starters (five on each side of the ball), but the Buttons have a coach (L.D. Green) who was an assistant at Trinity University last year.

Lanier coach Don Gatian heads into his 17^th season as Voks coach with 12 returning lettermen, but are essentially a young team with two talented and experienced running backs.

Senior backs Joe Orta and junior Julian Castillo may have to carry the Voks’ offensive load, figuratively and literally, until first-year starting quarterback Carlos Gutierrez gets his bearings. Fortunately for Lanier, it returns three starting linemen to make the transition from graduated QB Nicholas Garcia a little easier.

Lanier also graduated its top four receivers, so the passing game may be a work in progress this week.

Defensively, the Voks have good experience in the secondary, but not up front or in the linebacking corps. A strong performance in those areas will be important because Central Catholic quarterback Joseph Nava is a adept both at scrambling and finding receivers on short routes.

The Buttons also have an experienced line. Although Green was waiting to see which backs and receivers would step forward a couple of weeks ago, Central Catholic has no shortage of talent at those positions. Look for either Jacob Rodriguez or Jimin Suh to step forward as a ballcarrier.

Central Catholic will count on its new defensive alignment to prevent
Orta and Castillo from enabling the Voks to control the ball.

Lanier won the series’ first meeting 48-21 in 2006. Central Catholic took the rematch, and most recent meeting, 21-20 in 2007.

Series leader (record): even (1-1). 2013 score: none. 2014 favorite: Central Catholic.

Devine (0-0) vs. #4 Harlandale (0-0) at Harlandale Memorial Stadium, 7 p.m.

The first-ever meeting between two powerhouse programs promises to be exciting, and close.

This game officially begins life without quarterback Brandon Ramon for Harlandale, but signal calling should remain a strength In the Indians’ long-term prognosis. Left-handed junior QB Jacob Delgado is tall (6-foot-3) and talented.

The question left to be answered is how long Delgado’s indoctrination period will last. One key tonight could be how much pressure Devine’s defensive front can put on Delgado.

Senior Ian Martinez (788 receiving yards in 2013) will make Delgado’s task easier. Ramon, though, wasn’t the Indians only big offensive loss. Two-year starter Nick Martinez will leave a bit of a void, but John Aguirre should be capable of filling it as a workhorse back.

Senior free safety Ramzey Martinez, Harlandale coach Isaac Martinez’s son, along with returning defensive tackles Caleb Aguirre and Rene Huerta form the foundation of what should be a solid defense.

While Harlandale is considered a co-favorite with Brackenridge in District 28-5A, the Warhorses are the outright favorite to win District 14-4A Division II.

Quarterback Hunter DuBose will be a player to watch for Devine. He split time in the job last year and showed poise in a backup role. Under DuBose’s guidance, the Warhorses might throw a little more than they traditionally have.

Devine always is strong on the ground. Dillon Ricord and Joe Guerrero may be the primary ballcarriers. They’ll run behind a veteran line.

The Warhorses are perennial playoff qualifiers, so they can be expected to rise to the challenge with eight returning starters on both sides of the ball. Expect a close game with lots of scoring.

Series leader (record): none, first game. 2013 score: none. 2014 favorite: Harlandale.

BULLETIN: Sam Houston girls basketball coach Lamkin dies

PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO A FULL STORY ABOUT COACH LAMKIN ON SAN ANTONIO SOUTH SIDE SPORTS:

https://sportsonsouthside.com/2014/09/01/girls-basketball-lamkin-was-a-beacon-of-hope-for-sam-houston/

THIS IS THE LINK FOR THE FULL STORY (WITH PHOTOS) ON THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Sam-Houston-coach-taught-life-lessons-5726962.php

San Antonio South Side Sports extends our most sincere condolences to the family, friends and current and former players of Sam Houston girls basketball coach Milyse Lamkin — as well as the entire Hurricanes community.

Coach Lamkin, an alumna of the school who served many years at Sam Houston, died of cancer Thursday morning at age 52 after a three- to four-year battle. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all whose lives she touched.

“We lost a champion,” Sam Houston football coach and boys athletic coordinator Gary Green said. “She fought very, very hard, as she always has.”

In her nine years as Hurricanes coach, Lamkin guided the team to a 172-118 record and six district titles.

The 2013-14 Hurricanes qualified for the Class 3A playoffs and finished second in District 28-3A despite starting the season with a 2-15 record. Lamkin had missed more than a month of the season, due to an unanticipated hip surgery. Her team’s turnaround coincided with her return to the bench.

“It was hard for me, because I wasn’t able to be there for the girls,” Lamkin said last February of the leave of absence, “but I left it in the Lord’s hands.”

Interim SAISD athletic director Frank Arnold confirmed that Lamkin was on a leave of absence from her teaching position at the time of her death,

“She was one heck of a coach and a great person,” SAISD assistant athletic director Brian Clancy said. “This is a great loss for the district and for the young women on the east side of town.”

After her playing career ended at Sam Houston, Lamkin was a member of St. Mary’s University’s 1986 NAIA championship softball team. In 1999, she was inducted into the athletic hall of fame at St. Mary’s.

NOTE: I am currently working on a remembrance of coach Lamkin to be posted this weekend.

FOOTBALL: Southside Reporter preview links

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED IN THIS POST: Brackenridge, Brooks Academy, Burbank, Central Catholic, East Central, Edison, Harlandale, Highlands, Holy Cross, Jefferson, Kennedy, Lanier, McCollum, Memorial, Sam Houston, South San, Southside, Southwest.

Southside Reporter

Football Preview

Links to previews for each area team

Brackenridge – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Brackenridge-QB-has-wealth-of-experience-5710804.php

Brooks Academy – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/New-QB-takes-reins-at-Brooks-5710806.php

Burbank – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Burbank-moving-forward-5710810.php

Central Catholic – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Central-Catholic-ready-to-make-playoff-run-5710913.php

East Central – http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/East-Central-to-face-Smithson-Valley-5710822.php

Edison – http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Edison-brings-veterans-to-the-field-5710819.php

Harlandale – http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Harlandale-works-for-repeat-playoff-run-5710826.php

Highlands – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Highlands-counts-on-veterans-in-playoff-bid-5710812.php

Holy Cross – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Holy-Cross-sets-the-standard-5710814.php

Jefferson – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Jefferson-puts-trust-in-returning-starters-5710901.php

Kennedy – http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Kennedy-Rockets-overview-5710911.php

Lanier – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Lanier-counts-on-strong-defense-5710898.php

McCollum – http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Playmakers-return-to-McCollum-5710899.php

Memorial – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Minutemen-lean-on-senior-quarterback-5710904.php

Sam Houston – http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Sam-Houston-steps-up-a-level-5710906.php

South San – http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/South-San-on-the-right-track-5710909.php

Southside – http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Cardinals-get-fresh-start-with-new-coach-5710907.php

Southwest – http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Young-Southwest-team-gears-up-5710908.php

FOOTBALL: Holy Bowl in dormant mode after 46th renewal

Central Catholic & Holy Cross each hope to resume series in future

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED: Central Catholic, Holy Cross.

PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/After-46-years-there-will-be-no-Holy-Bowl-5710816.php

There will be a hole in the Holy Bowl series.

The Holy Bowl was first played in 1963 and continued every year until its only previous hiatus, from 1993 to 1998. The Central Catholic-Holy Cross series will be interrupted again for at least the next two years. Neither school could find a mutually agreeable playing date in the 2014 season.

“It’s a hard thing for me to talk about, because we really wanted to play,” Holy Cross football coach/athletic director Mike Harrison said. “We did try to work it out for this year. It’s unfortunate that it didn’t work out.”

The second hiatus in the 46-year series comes at a time when it was at its competitive peak.

Although Central Catholic has a commanding 35-11 lead in series victories, the teams have proved to be fairly even in the 21^st century. The Buttons have won eight of 14 games since 2000 and has a 310-282 scoring advantage in that stretch of the series.

New Central Catholic coach L.D. Green wasn’t on the Buttons staff when the 2014 schedule was created. He was hired in June. However, the former Trinity University assistant coach knows the rivalry’s intensity first-hand.

Green was an assistant to current Central Catholic athletic director Carlos Enrico from 2007 to 2010. Although, coincidentally, they haven’t won a series battle since, the Buttons won each of those four games.

“I wasn’t here,” Green said, “but I was (surprised) Holy Cross wasn’t on the schedule. The Holy Bowl, I thought, was a pretty good deal. In the four years I was here, it was a very competitive game.

“The kids prepared for it and stepped up their games. I hope it doesn’t end up like the Chili Bowl. I’d like to see it come back but, if it doesn’t happen, we’ll move forward.”

The Chili Bowl, pitting Fox Tech against Lanier, was the city’s oldest high school rivalry at the time of its termination in 2009. The end of that 67-year-old series was necessitated when Fox Tech eliminated its football program.

With its 51^st renewal scheduled for Nov. 7, the Frontier Bowl – featuring Harlandale and McCollum – is San Antonio’s premier active rivalry. The Holy Bowl is the second-oldest.

As with the University of Texas-Texas A&M University football series, outside factors contributed to the paus e in Holy Bowl history. Like the Aggies and Longhorns, the Buttons and Knights found themselves in separate leagues.

Both tidal waves hit the respective fan bases in fall 2012. The difference was that Central Catholic and Holy Cross found a way to extend their series two more years, while the future of Texas-A&M was washed away – possibly forever.

“Back when they were in our district, it was a big deal,” Enrico said. “You were playing for something. When it got to be a non-district game, we kept it up as a good, old rivalry.

“The kids got to play in front of, like, 10,000 fans. They just had to look at the crowd to know it was a big game.”

Three of the last seven Holy Bowls, including the two most-recent contests, were decided by a touchdown, or fewer, points. Since 2000, the series has fallen into a pattern with Central Catholic winning four-consecutive games and Holy Cross winning next three.

The Knights’ 21-14 win in 2013 stretched their winning streak to three games.

“We were on a roll,” Harrison said. “We had high hopes that it would continue.”

Until 2011, Central Catholic and Holy Cross both were in TAPPS 2-I and the game was the regular-season finale. The Buttons remained in the Class 5A district but realignment dropped the Knights to TAPPS 3-II, where they have remained.

The last two Holy Bowls were played in the first week of the season.

Last year, Holy Cross canceled the junior varsity game, according to Enrico. The Central Catholic athletic director said he wanted to make sure that the teams would compete on the underclass levels as well. He suggested that they target Sept. 19.

“That was the big reason we wanted to moved to Week (4),” Enrico said. “But I got a letter from Holy Cross’ president (Brother Stanley Culotta) and he told me that it was the weekend of their big (Blue & Gold) gala.”

Enrico said he then finalized Central Catholic’s schedule with a Sept. 19 home game against Class 4A Devine.

“We felt that it should be a Week 1 game,” Harrison said. “That was our standard from the get-go. When they didn’t want to do that, we looked around to see if there were other days available.

Holy Cross will play at Class 4A Hondo on Sept. 19. He said the Knights plan to continue their traditional Holy Bowl tailgate party.

“I’ll tell you now, to our boosters the Holy Bowl was a huge game to our boosters,” said Harrison, who indicated he’s amenable to resuming the series in the future. “We’ll try to replicate it with other games.”

Because of realignment and scheduling conflicts, the gap in the series will remain for at least the next two years.

“If it could be worked out,” Enrico said, “I’d like to play them. That’s a really good-dollar gate for both schools.”

Even if it doesn’t happen during the season’s opening week, Buttons and Knights alums and fans are certain to feel a void at some point this year. Chances are, it will kick in around Sept. 19.

HOLY BOWL SINCE 2000

Central Catholic 8 wins

Holy Cross 6 wins

(winner in boldface)

Date Central Catholic Holy Cross

2000 14 10

2001 28 9

2002 17 15

2003 34 0

2004 20 31

2005 7 30

2006 7 28

2007 13 9

2008 41 7

2009 34 14

2010 42 14

2011 27 57

2012 32 37

2013 14 21

—————————————————————-

Total points 310 282

Overall series record:

Central Catholic 35 wins

Holy Cross 11 wins

MULTIPLE SPORTS: Refurbished Alamo Stadium showcases modern amenities, history

Historic stadium’s mystique remains the same

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED: Brackenridge, Burbank, Edison, Fox Tech, Highlands, Jefferson, Lanier, Sam Houston.

Photos taken by Mark Lieberman, courtesy of MDLblog. For more photos or to purchase photos, please visit: http://mdlblog.com

10614158_690208701072301_9089569859731410904_n — Fox Tech’s contingent prepares to march in at the beginning of the Alamo Stadium re-dedication.

The outstanding Sam Houston band marches in as part of the Alamo Stadium re-dedication ceremony. — The outstanding Sam Houston band plays a marching cadence as it marches in as part of the Alamo Stadium re-dedication ceremony.

Brackenridge's contingent sings the school song at the Alamo Stadium re-dedication ceremony. — Brackenridge’s contingent has just finished singing the school song at the Alamo Stadium re-dedication ceremony.

The blue ribbon panel of current and former SAISD athletes, coaches and administrators who spoke at the re-dedication ceremony. KSAT-12 sportscaster Greg Simmons served as master of ceremonies.

PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Memories-abound-during-rededication-of-Alamo-5711620.php

The words Burbank alum Cathy Tijerina spoke Aug. 16 would fall like sweet music on the ears of the folks from Joeris Contractors/Hunt Construction.

The one-time Bulldogs band member shared her first impressions of Alamo Stadium during the mult-use facility’s re-dedication ceremony. In her mind, though, Tijerina also recalled where she sat in the Rock Pile her high school band days.

“It’s new and improved,” she said simply yet eloquently, “but it hasn’t changed.”

That essentially was what the construction company was aiming for when it took on the job in 2010 as part of a $35 million bond project to renovate Alamo Stadium and the adjacent Alamo Convocation Center.

SAISD assistant athletic director Brian Clancy said the mission was preserving the basic look and feel of the original stadium – as it was in 1940, when it was built — yet to bringing it up to speed with relatively new showcase venues like the Northeast ISD’s Heroes Stadium and Northside ISD’s Farris Stadium.

“You can’t tell the old rock from the new rock,” Clancy said. “They did a great job of matching it to the existing rock. They also cleaned up and re-tapped all that rock.

“Even the palm tree entrance and the entry corridor has been freshly landscaped.”

The stadium sacrificed some of its 23,000-seat capacity to widen the playing field for soccer. No longer Texas’ largest stadium, it’s still in the top 10 at about 18,000.

After putting a fresh face on it, the SAISD was selling relics from the old stadium like chairs, bricks and turf shadow boxes to the nostalgic and community-minded.

Guadalupe Cobarrubias Jr., a 1988 Edison grad, and his family were there to embrace the changes.

Cobarrubias’ son, Joseph Flores Jr., will play football and soccer at the stadium for the Golden Bears. His daughter, Christina Cobarrubias, was looking forward to playing soccer and running track at the rejuvenated stadium.

“It’s what we were hoping for,” Mr. Cobarrubias said. “We went to the board meeting and really pushed for it.”

The most visible modification is a 45 foot by 24 foot Daktronics scoreboard, considered the second-largest in San Antonio. Reproducation on the replay screens is said to be comparable with major-college boards.

The east entrance will be home to the new SAISD Sports Hall of Fame. Spotlighted plaques of the inductees, whom the public can nominate until Sept. 1 at http://www.saisd.net/dept/athletics889/, will grace the commons area.

Coaches and athletes will appreciate that both the home and visitors locker rooms are equipped with multiple whiteboards and feature game clocks on the wall. Even the filming area on the third level is more user-friendly.

“It’s really special for me,” said interim SAISD athletic director Frank Arnold, who wore a Burbank football uniform at the stadium in the late 1950s. “It’s going back home, to know the history of the place. It’s great for our student-athletes to have this facility.”

Harlandale coach Isaac Martinez, whose team will play three games there, is happiest about the new FieldTurf playing surface.

“We’re kind of excited about (the renovation),” said Martinez, whose home field was upgraded a couple of seasons ago. “It’s a 15-minute drive one way and we’re at beautiful Alamo Stadium. And a five-minute drive the other way and we’re at our beautiful Harlandale Memorial Stadium.”

With the new and old intermingling at Alamo Stadium, it was impossible during the re-dedication ceremony for SAISD alumni to fend off their memories.

Gus Tijerina, Cathy’s husband and a 1988 Burbank alum, was reminded of a Brackenridge playoff game he attended as a youngster, not knowing he’d play at the Rock Pile during his Bulldogs football career.

“I just love it,” said Tijerina, whose son Augie is a Burbank junior and band member. “All of my best and worst football memories happened right here.

“I guess, in 20 years when he has kids, my son will be able to come back here and reminisce about his high school years.”

VOLLEYBALL: This week’s results (thru Aug. 30)

NOTE: teams we cover are in boldface

Games of Aug. 24-30

Monday’s results

Non-district

No matches scheduled

Tuesday’s results

District 27-5A
Alamo Heights (14-5, 1-0) 3, Kerrville Tivy (10-4, 0-1) 1 (25-17, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19)
Kennedy (3-7, 1-0) 3, Memorial (2-16 ???, 0-1) 2 (25-22, 25-16, 18-25, 20-25, 15-7)
Lockhart (11-8, 1-0) 3, San Marcos (10-8, 0-1) 0 (25-11, 25-21, 25-23)
Boerne Champion (7-8, 1-0) 3, Seguin (7-10, 0-1) 0 (25-22, 25-21, 25-19)
District 28-5A
Brackenridge (3-11, 1-0) 3, Edison (4-11, 0-1) 1 (25-11, 26-24, 22-25, 25-17)
Jefferson (14-4, 1-0) 3, Harlandale (7-9, 0-1) 0 (25-19, 25-14, 25-20)
Sam Houston (9-6, 1-0) 3, Burbank (6-12, 0-1) 1 (25-11, 26-24, 22-25, 25-17)
McCollum (3-5, 1-0) 3, Lanier (3-9, 0-1) 0 (25-12, 25-16, 25-10)
TAPPS 4-4A
Providence (10-7, 1-0) 3, Corpus Christi John Paul II (2-3 ???, 0-1) 0 (25-7, 25-10, 25-10)
Holy Cross (11-4, 2-0) 3, San Antonio Christian (2-7, 0-2) 0 (25-7, 25-10, 25-10)
Corpus Christi Incarnate Word (3-5 ???, 1-1) 3, Laredo St. Augustine (7-4, 0-2) 0 (scores unavailable)

Victoria St. Joseph (18-1, 2-0) 3, TMI (2-3 ???, 1-1) 0 (scores unavailable)

Non-district

Johnson City (1-0 ???) at Brooks Academy (2-0 ???) (scores unavailable)

Highlands (8-8) 3, Fox Tech (2-14) 0 (25-12, 25-12, 25-16)

Southwest (10-7) 3, Southside (8-8) 1 (25-17, 25-12,23-25, 25-19 )
East Central (6-10) 3, Clemens (7-7) 0 (25-19, 25-10, 26-24)
Madison (11-5) 2, South San (8-6) 0 (25-14, 25-15, 25-14)

Wednesday’s matches

District 4-4A

Victoria St. Joseph (19-1, 3-0) 3, Holy Cross (11-5, 2-1) 0 (25-23, 25-16, 27-25)

Thursday’s matches

TAPPS 4-4A
Cornerstone Christian (2-4, 1-1) 3, Laredo St. Augustine (7-5, 0-3) 0 (scores unavailable)

Non-district

Lee (11-8) 3, Providence (10-8) 0 (25-17, 25-15, 25-23)

Longhorn Tournament

At Laredo United

Highlands (7-8) 2, Roma 1 (18-25, 25-22, 15-11)

Highlands (8-8) 2, Laredo United South 0 (25-20, 25-20)

Mizuno Texas Showdown

At Smithson Valley

Madison 2, Brackenridge (3-14) 0 (25-10, 25-11)

Antonian 2, Holy Cross (11-8) 0 (25-18, 25-22)

O’Connor 2, Brackenridge (3-14) 0 (25-9, 25-9)

New Braunfels Canyon 2, Holy Cross (11-8) 0 (25-12, 25-16)

Odessa Permian 2, Holy Cross (11-8) 1 (25-22, 13-25, 25-20)

Judson 2, Brackenridge (3-14) 0 (25-20, 25-17)

Seguin Tournament

McCollum (6-5) 2, Taft 0 (25-23, 25-20)

Navarro 2, Fox Tech (2-16) 0 (25-2, 25-9)

Corpus Christi Tuloso-Midway 2, Kennedy (3-10) 0 (25-7, 25-8)

Corpus Christi Flour Bluff 2, Memorial (2-19 ???) 0 (25-6, 25-8)

Victoria East 2, Fox Tech (2-16) 0 (25-6, 25-10)

McCollum (6-5) 2, Corpus Christi Tuloso-Midway 1 (25-15, 22-25, 25-19)

Brandeis 2, Memorial (2-19 ???) 0 (25-3, 25-9)

Taft 2, Kennedy (3-10) 0 (25-4, 25-19)

Boerne 2, Memorial (2-19 ???) 0 (25-11, 25-8)

McCollum (6-5) 2, Kennedy (3-10) 0 (25-20, 25-7)

Marshall 2, Fox Tech (2-16) 0 (25-8, 25-7)

Friday’s matches

Non-district

Sam Houston (10-6) 3, Lanier (3-11) 2 (25-17, 25-19, 22-25, 26-28, 15-12)

Harlandale (8-9) 3, Southside (8-9) 0 (27-25, 25-20, 25-20)

St. Anthony (6-2) 3, Burbank (6-13) 0 (25-17, 25-11, 25-12)

Jefferson (14-4) at Wagner (3-12), 7 p.m. (scores unavailable)

Longhorn Tournament

At Laredo United

Highlands (9-9) 2, Zapata 1 (23-25, 25-4, 15-8)

Del Rio 2, Highlands (9-9) 0 (25-6, 25-12)

Mizuno Texas Showdown

At Smithson Valley

Schulenburg 2, Brackenridge (3-17) 0 (25-17, 25-13)

Houston Cypress Creek 2, Brackenridge (3-17) 0 (25-11, 25-12)

Fredericksburg 2, Brackenridge (3-17) 0 (25-13, 25-19)

Magnolia 2, Holy Cross (12-10) 0 (25-19, 25-18)

Brennan 2, Holy Cross (12-10) 1 (25-12, 24-26, 25-16)

Holy Cross (12-10) 2, Uvalde 0 (25-18, 25-22)

Ragin’ Rattler Tournament

At San Marcos

East Central (9-10) 2, Kyle Lehman 0 (25-5, 25-6)

East Central (9-10) 2, Manor 0 (25-7, 25-16)

East Central (9-10) 2, Victoria West 0 (25-12, 25-17)

La Vernia 2, Southwest (10-8) 1 (25-15, 16-25, 25-18)

Ft. Bend Christian 2, Edison (4-12) 0 (scores unavailable)

South San (8-6) (scores unavailable)

Seguin Tournament

Taft 2, Fox Tech (2-19) 0 (25-8, 25-15)

Stevens 2, Fox Tech (2-19) 0 (25-7, 25-14)

Corpus Christi Flour Bluff 2, Fox Tech (2-19) 0 (25-11, 25-8)

Brandeis 2, Kennedy (3-13) 0 (25-2, 25-9)

Marshall 2, Kennedy (3-13) 0 (25-6, 25-6)

Seguin 2, Kennedy (3-13) 0 (25-5, 25-11)

Victoria East 2, Memorial (2-22 ???) 0 (25-8, 25-18)

Clemens 2, Memorial (2-22 ???) 0 (25-7, 25-5)

McCollum (8-6) 2, Victoria East 0 (25-14, 25-23)

McCollum (8-6) 2, Memorial (2-22 ???) 0 (25-13, 25-15)

Clemens 2, McCollum (8-6) 0 (25-17, 25-23)

Saturday’s matches

Non-district

Longhorn Tournament

At Laredo United

AREA TEAMS – Highlands (9-9). Finals – Saturday. (scores unavailable)

Mizuno Texas Showdown

At Smithson Valley

Odessa Permian 2, Brackenridge (3-18) 0 (25-11, 25-13)

Holy Cross (15-10) 2, Bandera 0 (25-16, 25-16)

Holy Cross (15-10) 2, Odessa Permian 0 (25-23, 25-23)

Holy Cross (15-10) 2, Corpus Christi King 1 (25-18, 16-25, 25-15)

Ragin’ Rattler Tournament

At San Marcos

Edison (5-13) 2, Austin Stephen F. Austin 0 (25-20, 25-16)

Lockhart 2, Edison (5-13) 0 (25-12, 25-11)

South San (10-7) 2, Austin Akins 0 (25-22, 25-21)

Southwest (12-9) 2, South San (10-7) 1 (25-19, 24-26, 25-19)

Weatherford 2, South San (10-7) 0 (21-25, 25-23, 25-19)

Canyon Lake 2, Southwest (12-9) 0 (25-6, 25-19)

Southwest (12-9) 2, Cuero 1 (21-25, 25-21, 25-13)

East Central (11-11) 2, Giddings 0 (25-17, 25-21)

East Central (11-11) 2, Keller Fossil Ridge 0 (25-23, 25-21)

Championship

Mansfield Summit 2, East Central (11-11) 1 (22-25, 25-14, 25-15)

Seguin Tournament

AREA TEAMS – Fox Tech (2-19), Kennedy (3-13), Memorial (2-22 ???), McCollum (8-6). Finals – Saturday.

Taft 2, McCollum (8-8) 0 (25-23, 25-19)

Brandeis 2, McCollum (8-8) 0 (25-15, 25-21)

Corpus Christi Tuloso-Midway 2, Fox Tech (2-21) 0 (25-5, 25-4)

Stockdale 2, Kennedy (3-15) 0 (25-20, 25-17)

Victoria East 2, Kennedy (3-15) 0 (25-13, 25-18)

Memorial 2, Fox Tech (2-21) 1 (25-17, 21-25, 25-21)

Stockdale 2, Memorial (2-24 ???) 0 (25-12, 25-14)

Seguin 2, Memorial (2-24 ???) 0 (25-21, 25-7)

VOLLEYBALL: Guardians’ guided-missile serves lead to win over Providence

Promising Provets can’t hold Game 5 lead

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED: Providence.

PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Guardians-pinpoint-serves-take-Providence-out-of-5711694.php

PLEASE FOLLOW TO THIS LINK TO THE NORTHEAST HERALD WEBSITE:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/communities/southside/article/Guardians-pinpoint-serves-take-Providence-out-of-5711694.php

In the first game of Schertz John Paul II’s first match, the Guardians were in a reactive mode. Thereafter, they were the aggressors, starting with their serves.

John Paul (then 1-0) attacked Providence’s back line with its serves as the match progressed Aug. 19 with good results. The Provets (then 5-3) won the first game 25-16. claimed the next two games 25-17 and 25-21 before Providence recovered to win Game 4 26-24 and extend the match in its home gym.

The Guardians won the decisive game 15-12 on a kill from sophomore Alyssa Fabac through a block attempt. Fabac led John Paul with five kills and four digs.

“Our coach focus on serving,” Fabac said. “We try to serve to a (specific) spot. Once we get there, we keep serving to the same spot and challenge them to pick it up.”

The Provets were coming off a 25-17, 25-22, 25-22 win over Sam Houston Aug. 18. They went on to finish fourth at the Jaguar Classic in Floresville last weekend.

Freshman Jazzmyne Williams (14 kills) served the first of her three aces on the match’s first point, beginning a four-point run that allowed Providence to lead throughout the match. The lead reached 10-4 on two of Hannah Sasser’s 14 kills.

The Guardians closed within 11-8, but Providence gradually pulled away and finished the game with Williams’ fifth kill.

“When we can pass the ball and make good connections, then we get a good result,” Providence coach Elise Denoux said. “I’m looking for that consistency. They have some good players. We knew they’d be ready to play.”

John Paul’s winning serving strategy began to take effect in Game 2. The Guardians served four aces in the game, two from Fabac. Kayla Kowalick served two aces in Game 3.

“If we can get a team out of system and make them move,” Schertz John Paul II coach Danielle Gonzalez explained, “then the setter’s not able to set the ball as easily. Also, we did a good job of blocking. We got our hands on a lot of balls.”

Providence jumped out to a 9-2 lead behind two aces from freshman Balleigh Creighton, but had to fend off John Paul to win. The Guardians built a 24-22 lead with help from back-to-back aces by Emily McCabe, but made two consecutive errors on match point. Williams seized the opportunity, tying it 24-24 on a kill and a tip. A kill from Christianna Howell put Providence over the hump.

In Game 5, a block from Sasser helped the Provets take a 6-4 lead. A kill by Fabac factored in a Guardians surge that put them ahead, 11-7. Kowalik put down a kill that enabled John Paul to reach another match point.

“We have a lot to look forward to,” Denoux said. “We’re working to develop our underclassmen. We have great team enthusiasm and our returning players are giving them a lot of encouragement.

“For three weeks into the season, we’re not bad.”

Providence senior defensive specialist Mital Patel was credited with 24 digs. Freshman Mia Ybarra recorded 15 assists. Sasser added a team-high four blocks.

MORE TO COME

VOLLEYBALL: Area teams hit their stride at SAISD Tourney

South San, Southwest win bracket championships

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED: Brackenridge, Highlands, Holy Cross, Jefferson, South San, Southside, Southwest, Young Women’s Leadership Academy.

Photos taken by KJ Toso. For more photos or to purchase photos, please visit: http://kjtoso.photoshelter.com

Southwest senior middle blocker Kassy Cruz

Holy Cross sophomore libero Daisy Flores executes a pass. — Holy Cross sophomore defensive specialist Daisy Flores executes a pass.

Highlands setter Analisa Garza (13) readies a backset, possibly for Sara Denton (7) — Highlands junior Analisa Garza (13) readies a backset, possibly for Sara Denton (7)

PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Southwest-South-San-top-SAISD-tourney-5711678.php

Because of the caliber of competition and the number of matches played in a short period of time, tournaments can serve as stepping stones to an outstanding season. That may have happened for three of the eight area teams entered last weekend at the SAISD Tournament.

District rivals Southwest (9-7) and South San (8-5) emerged as champions, winning the Bronze and Silver pools, respectively. SAISD representative Highlands (6-8) was the top finisher in the Gold Pool, which determined the overall champion. The Owls placed third in the two-day tournament, which took place at the Alamo Convocation Center and Highlands.

“I feel like this tournament helped a lot,” Southwest sophomore Aashlyn Sulaica said. “We were able to make mistakes, then come out and fix them. It’s going pretty well. We’re excited for district.”

McAllen (15-2) was the Gold Pool champion. Holy Cross (10-4) lost its last two matches, including a two-game decision against Highlands, and finished fourth in the pool.

Highlands defeated the Knights 25-17, 26-24.

“The girls played really well at the Laredo tournament last year and that was the turning point of our season,” Highlands coach Jaci Barrientes said. “We’re hoping this was the turning point for this year, a week earlier. We just want to carry this through and keep getting stronger.”

South San, on the heels of a good showing at the Harlandale ISD Tournament a week earlier, breezed to four wins in the Bronze Pool after dropping two matches Friday. The Bobcats defeated Wagner (3-10) 25-16, 23-25, 25-16 in a pivotal match that decided first place.

“We worked hard together all summer,” said South San junior setter Erica Jimenez, an all-tournament selection. “We’re coming together as a team. We have some goals in mind and we’re working hard all the time.”

Southwest

The Dragons took a 2-6 record into the weekend. They lost a three-game match to Holy Cross 27-25, 21-25, 25-13 that dropped them into the Silver Pool. Southwest never lost again, winning their last four matches in two games.

Southwest defeated pool runner-up Schertz John Paul II (5-2), 25-11, 25-14. Southside (8-7) finished third and Jefferson (13-4), which entered the tournament undefeated, took fourth.

Dragons senior Yasmine Garcia helped seal the fourth win with a nine-point service run that included three aces against Brackenridge (2-11). Another Southwest setter, Dori Martinez, delivered a seven-point run that finished with an ace in Game 1 against Jefferson. The Dragons beat the Mustangs 25-17, 25-23.

“They put forth the effort and put the ball where you want it,” Southwest coach Erin Morgal said of her three setters, including Angie Aguilar. “The hitters help them out, (communicating with) them.”

South San

In their pool, which included Young Women’s Leadership Academy, the Bobcats won the other three matches in two games. South San coach Dyanne Martinez-Munoz is an assistant athletic director at the school. She accepted the position after Sanando Molina was hired at Poteet over the summer.

“The girls showed a lot of character today,” said Martinez-Munoz, who hasn’t coached volleyball since 1980. “They made up for what they should have done Friday.”

Martinez-Munoz has coached seven sports during her career.

Highlands

` The Owls tied Holy Cross 22-22 on a block from senior Jenelle Rodriguez after the Knights had established a 17-13 advantage behind the hitting of Henrianna Ibarra (6 kills in the game). Holy Cross missed five serves in the game, which helped Highlands push through in Game 2.

Kills from Bryten Mitchan and Emily Pearce punctuated the win.

“We made some changes coming into the weekend,” Barrientes said, “and they seem to be working. When we get everything going, we’re hard to stop.”

Holy Cross was the only team in the pool to take McAllen to three games (25-21, 17-25, 25-23), but lost both of its matches Saturday.

“We rely so heavily on our serving, that really hurt us,” Holy Cross coach Ruben Calderon said. “Highlands played a very good game and made adjustments. We didn’t react to that.”

MORE TO COME

VOLLEYBALL WEEKEND REPORT: Hurricanes get set for 28-5A season with pair of wins

Providence snares fourth at Jaguar Classic

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED: Burbank, East Central, Edison, Harlandale, Lanier, Memorial, Providence, Sam Houston.

PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO THE SOUTHSIDE REPORTER WEBSITE:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Weekend-volleyball-action-intense-5711725.php

Sam Houston (8-6) prepared for its District 28-5A season by winning two of its last three matches at the Devine Arabian Round-up.

The Hurricanes came back through the consolation bracket Saturday after winning one match on their first day at the three-day tournament. Sam Houston dumped Sabinal 25-16, 25-14 and FEAST 22-25, 25-20, 25-18 on Saturday. It also lost a close match to Cotulla 27-25, 25-20.

Sam Houston also defeated former district rival Poteet for the second time this season on Friday. The Hurricanes prevailed 19-24, 25-21, 25-22.

Lanier (3-9) won one of five matches at the tournament. The Voks defeated Sabinal 25-13, 25-13 Thursday. No tournament statistics were unavailable for either Lanier or Sam Houston.

Jaguar Classic

Providence (9-7) was the top finisher among six area teams at the Jaguar Classic in Floresville. The Provets won their first two matches Saturday to reach the semifinals and placed fourth in their first appearance at the tournament in recent years.

The Provets split their four matches Friday, defeating Eagle Pass 25-10, 25-17 and Burbank (6-11) 25-15, 25-16. Harlandale (7-8) outlasted Providence for a 25-17, 22-25, 25-17 win and Lockhart also defeated Providence in three games, 19-25, 25-22, 25-20.

Providence got off to a flying start in bracket play Saturday. The Provets defeated Edinburg North 25-20, 14-25, 25-23 and Randolph 25-15, 25-16 to advance. Holmes downed Providence 25-12, 25-14 in the semifinals and Lockhart recorded another win over the Provets 25-16, 25-20 in the third-place match.

Alexandra Howard led Lockhart in the third-place match with nine kills, eight digs and three aces. Harlandale also won its first two matches Saturday, defeating Randolph 25-17, 25-14 and Jay 25-19, 14-25, 28-26. The Indians lost in three games to Laredo United and in two to Holmes.

On Friday, the Indians defeated Burbank 25-5, 25-21and Eagle Pass 25-12, 15-25, 25-13.

Edison (4-10) had a rough first day at the tournament, but claimed three wins on Saturday. The Golden Bears defeated 28-5A rival Burbank 25-13, 25-21, Floresville’s junior varsity 25-12, 25-10 and Memorial (2-15) 25-20, 25-12.

No tournament statistics were available for any of the area teams.

Gator Classic

East Central had a strong start at the highly competitive tournament in Dickinson, a Houston suburb, but the Hornets (5-10) experienced a difficult final day. East Central lost each of its last three matches Saturday.

The Hornets lost only to eventual runner-up Alvin in three matches Thursday. East Central smashed Pasadena Memorial 25-11, 25-9 and defeated Clear Brook 25-20, 25-18.

Kaylin Mills led the Hornets with 11 set assists and three aces against Pasadena Memorial. Freshman Skeyler Embry hammered seven kills. Nichole West added five digs.

Against Clear Brook, Mills supplied nine assists, four aces and four digs. Senior Brandi Campos made six digs. Lindsey Lubianski and Embry each finished with four kills.

VOLLEYBALL: Area rankings (thru Aug. 23)

Through Aug. 23

TOP 15:

1. Holy Cross

2. Southwest

3. Highlands

4. East Central

5. Southside

6. Jefferson

7. McCollum

8. South San

9. Providence

10. Harlandale

11. Edison

12. Sam Houston

13. Burbank

14. Brackenridge

15. Young Women’s Leadership Academy

FOOTBALL: This week’s results (thru Aug. 30)

NOTE: teams we cover are in boldface

WEEK 1 SCHEDULE

(Aug. 28-30)

Thursday’s results

Non-district

Central Catholic (1-0) 30, Lanier (0-1) 0

Harlandale (1-0) 17, Devine (0-1) 7

Non-district (out of area)

Corpus Christi Carroll (1-0) 35, Corpus Christi Miller (0-1) 10

Laredo United South (1-0) 20, Laredo Nixon (0-1) 0

Friday’s results

Non-district

Leakey (1-0) 38, Brooks Academy (0-1) 0

Southside (1-0), 36, Burbank (0-1) 13

Carrizo Springs (1-0) 30, Memorial (0-1) 8

South San (1-0) 14, Holmes (0-1) 6

Jay (1-0) 66, Brackenridge (0-1) 45

Antonian (1-0) 41, Jefferson (0-1) 17

Victoria East (1-0) 43, Kennedy (0-1) 14

Pleasanton (1-0) 13, Edison (0-1) 7

Bandera (1-0) 21, Sam Houston (0-1) 15

San Marcos (1-0) 59, East Central (0-1) 56

Uvalde (1-0) 27, McCollum (0-1) 8

Victoria West (1-0) 26, Southwest (0-1) 14

Non-district (out of area)

Lockhart (1-0) 46, Austin Reagan (0-1) 26

Austin Regents (1-0) 30, Waco Reicher (0-1) 14

Cornerstone Christian (1-0) 26, Austin St. Dominic Savio (0-1) 21

Lago Vista (1-0) 27, Austin St. Michael’s (0-1) 20

Mathis (1-0) 34, Banquete (0-1) 21

Cedar Park Vista Ridge (1-0) 54, Seguin (0-1) 21

Corpus Christi Flour Bluff (1-0) 31, Corpus Christi King (0-1) 13

Laredo Johnson (1-0) 28, Eagle Pass Winn (0-1) 14

West Columbia (1-0) 31, Hallettsville (0-1) 20

Boerne Champion (1-0) 44, Hays (0-1) 27

Corpus Christi Ray (1-0) 35, Laredo Martin (0-1) 0

Navarro (1-0), 20, Medina Valley (0-1) 12

Alamo Heights (1-0) 31, New Braunfels (0-1) 0

Brownsville St. Joseph (1-0) 38, Raymondville (0-1) 34

TMI (1-0) 20, St. Anthony (0-1) 12

San Diego (1-0) 21, George West (0-1) 0

Skidmore-Tynan (1-0) 41, Corpus Christi John Paul II (0-1) 0

Port Lavaca Calhoun (1-0) 60, Somerset (0-1) 41

Goliad (1-0) 52, Victoria St. Joseph (0-1) 0

Laredo Cigarroa (1-0) 62, Zapata (0-1) 36

Saturday’s results

Non-district

Floresville (1-0) 13, Highlands (0-1) 7

Holy Cross (1-0) 31, San Antonio Christian (0-1) 13

Non-district (out of area)

Big Spring (1-0) 58, Kerrville Tivy (0-1) 56

FOOTBALL: Jefferson vs. Laredo United scrimmage photo gallery, Aug. 22, 2014 (photos by KJ Toso)

Holy Cross overpowers SACS in second half; Southside wins Lock’s first game

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Veteran coach’s players vow to honor her legacy

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AREA TEAMS INCLUDED IN THIS POST: Brackenridge, Brooks Academy, Burbank, Central Catholic, East Central, Edison, Harlandale, Highlands, Holy Cross, Jefferson, Kennedy, Lanier, McCollum, Memorial, Sam Houston, South San, Southside, Southwest.

Links to previews for each area team

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Central Catholic & Holy Cross each hope to resume series in future

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Historic stadium’s mystique remains the same

AREA TEAMS INCLUDED: Brackenridge, Burbank, Edison, Fox Tech, Highlands, Jefferson, Lanier, Sam Houston.

Photos taken by Mark Lieberman, courtesy of MDLblog. For more photos or to purchase photos, please visit: http://mdlblog.com

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Games of Aug. 24-30

Monday’s results

Tuesday’s results

Wednesday’s matches

Thursday’s matches

Friday’s matches

Saturday’s matches

Championship

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Promising Provets can’t hold Game 5 lead

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South San, Southwest win bracket championships

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Providence snares fourth at Jaguar Classic

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Through Aug. 23

TOP 15:

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WEEK 1 SCHEDULE

Thursday’s results

Friday’s results

Saturday’s results

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Photos taken by KJ Toso. For more photos or to purchase photos, please visit: http://kjtoso.photoshelter.com

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