PREVIOUS CLIPS HERE

CLICK for weekly Pacific Coast Conference Athletes of the Week

Wiener Nationals set for Qualcomm

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (8-25-08) -- It’s time to crown San Diego’s fastest wiener dog, when racing dachshunds return for the 12th annial Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals, set for Sat., Aug. 30, at the rugby fields at Qualcomm Stadium (southwest corner of the parking lot). The event is a fund-raiser for the non-profit Pacific Life Holiday Bowl. It also benefits Rancho Coastal Humane Society.

The eight fastest dachshunds from the expected field of 350 wiener dogs at this qualifying round will race during the San Diego Padres game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Petco Park on Sept. 10 to determine the San Diego finalist. The local champion will race against the winning dogs from all around the Western U.S. at the Port of San Diego Big Bay Balloon Parade on Dec. 29.

The entry fee for dogs is $10; the event is free for spectators. The event also includes vendors, dog rescue organizations, food and more. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m., and racing begins at 9:30 a.m. The competition will go until approximately 12:30 p.m. For information and entries, visit www.PacificLifeHolidayBowl.com or call (619) 283-5808.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (8-6-08) — DAVID BEEZER is not officially the Christian High mascot. But no student-athlete, coach or administrator is more passionate about the Patriots than the 38-year-old athlete-turned-mentor.

A three-sport letterman who graduated in 1988, Beezer has made his mark on other fronts but realizes his home is Christian High. So does the Patriots administration, which named Beezer athletic director earlier this month.

Beezer said when he accepted the post of director of development for the Christian Unified School District that he did so because he wanted to be involved. When the athletic director job became available, it caught Beezer’s attention.

“If ever there was a job built for me, this is it,” said Beezer, whose wife Shannon is a teacher on the high school campus. The couple has four children, all of whom attend Christian’s classes. “I’ve always been a supporter of sports on-campus – it’s in my passion zone.”

Beezer, whose name can be found in the SDCIF record book for outstanding achievement as a football player, coached the Patriots to San Diego CIF football championships in 1993, 1994 and 1995. He also coached the Patriots’ baseball team into the 1994 finals.

Not bad for a guy who was the head coach only four seasons for the two sports.

“I have a vision of where I’d like to see our program go. I want us to be successful in all sports,” said Beezer, who plans to launch a wrestling program this winter. “We already have an excellent program in most sports and I expect to be equally as competitive in wrestling, right off the bat.”

Although Beezer’s main focus will be as athletic director, he also plans to lend a coaching hand to the varsity football program. Christian alum JOEL ALLEN has moved from The Bishop’s School to take over Beezer’s former spot as offensive coordinator.

“I realize my position as athletic director is to maintain a close relationship with the coaches and the administration,” Beezer said. “I’m not content to maintain where we are. I have some goals – things that I believe will make us an even better athletic program.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (6-14-08) — Five more East County football players are advancing into the collegiate ranks via scholarships next season.

At the top of the list is Steele Canyon ’s record-breaking running back JAMIE DALE, who has secured a football scholarship to South Dakota School of the Mines, an NAIA school in Rapid City, S.D.

A 5-foot-10, 165-pound senior, Dale excelled in three sports – football, soccer and track. But football was his meal ticket. Dale rushed for 1,533 yards and 19 touchdowns on 234 carries as a senior and was named Grossmont South League Offensive Player of the Year.

Dale produced 3,465 all-purpose yards and scored 47 rushing TD rushing during his two-year varsity career. He proved his versatility as the leading scorer for the Steele Canyon soccer team and also collected a few blue ribbons as a track sprinter.

Grossmont High’s KHALID WATERS, a nard-nosed running back and clap-down corner, has found his way to Midland Lutheran, an NAIA school in Freemont, Neb.

As a senior All-East County pick, Waters rushed for 736 yards and 8 TDs on 144 carries, and doubled his talents in the Foothillers’ secondary where he intercepted 4 passes.

The football scholarship parade has continued throughout the spring. CHRIS PETERSON, a strong safety-outside linebacker at Helix, is headed for Humboldt State University on scholarship. The aggressive 5-foot-10, 195-pound Peterson was an All-Grossmont South League first team pick.

El Capitan running back BEN WILKINS and West Hills’ lineman DOMINIC LA RUSSA have accepted football scholarships Division II University of Minnesota-Crookston. The 6-foot-1, 220-pound Wilkins pounded his way to a 7.5 rushing average (107-807) while scoring 13 TDs. Wilkins earned All-East County 2nd team offense; All-Grossmont North league 2nd team offense.

La Russa, a 5-foot-11, 265-pounder, was an All-East County 1st team offensive lineman.

Although spending his first three seasons as Grossmont’s QB, CHARLIE PIRO left his mark in Foothillers lore as a clutch-hitting outfielder-first baseman. Piro, who batted .410 with 8 homers and 41 RBI as a senior, has signed with Division III Chapman University where he will join former Foothiller standout TRISTAN PHILLIPS.

On the girls side, Grossmont’s RIOS sisters – SHANDIS and TINA — have accepted will continue their basketball careers at Division III schools where academics outweigh athletic talents. Shandis, a transfer from Southwestern College, will attend Chapman University, while freshman Tina will enroll at Redlands. Should be interesting how these sibling guards faceoff when they go head-to-head next season.

El Capitan's Miles Reagan was East County's highest selection in the 2008 MLB draft, taken in the 7th round by the Arizona Diamondbacks. (File photo by Mark Gonzales)

Reagan drafted by D-Backs in 7th round
Ten East County players selected on Day Two

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (6-07-08) — El Capitan’s MILES REAGAN was elated when the Arizona Diamondbacks chose him in the 7th round of the major league baseball free-agent draft on Friday (June 6).

Valhalla pitcher RYAN O’SULLIVAN was somewhat disappointed when he had to wait until the final day of the two-day draft before the San Francisco Giants selected him in the 10th round.

Center fielder BRIAN HUMPHRIES of Granite Hills had mixed emotions when the Boston Red Sox picked him in the 19th round.

A total of 10 players with East County ties were among the 1,504 players selected in this year’s draft.

Valhalla High School pitcher Ryan O'Sullivan was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 10th round. (File photo by Mark Gonzales)

Reagan did not have the kind of year he expected in terms of displaying his best pitching stuff.

“Considering I was injured part of the season, I’m surprised I went as high as I did,” said Reagan, who posted a 3-0 mark with 33 strikeouts in 23 innings as a senior. “But I’m so excited about being picked by the Diamondbacks. I can’t wait to get out there and get started on a career I’ve always wanted.”

Barring a disaster in negotiations, Reagan, the 228th player picked overall, figures to sign with the Diamondbacks.

“It was kinda nerve-wracking that first day when I didn’t see my name pop up on the Internet (draft list),” Reagan said. “I can’t ask for anymore than this. So far it’s turned out great.”

O’Sullivan, the East County Sports.com Player of the Year, was projected to go as high as the third round in most pre-draft talk. Yet, when the first six rounds went by and the sun set on the opening day of the draft, O’Sullivan’s name had not been called.

Granie Hills' Brian Humphries

“I’m ready to go play right now, but we’ll see where the chips fall when we sit down and negotiate,” said O’Sullivan, who posted an 8-2 record and 2.09 ERA, while striking out 81 in 67 innings.

Reports from the San Francisco side indicate that the Giants believe they got a gem in selecting O’Sullivan with a later pick than most anticipated.

A 2007 Aflac All-American who has the option of riding a scholarship to play at San Diego State, O'Sullivan is considered a "pitchability" prospect with at least two and possibly three Major League pitches.

The 6-foot-1, 190-pound right-hander routinely throws in the 90-91 miles an hour range and has touched 94. More than that though, his fastball has some sink and tails down in the zone. O’Sullivan also features a hard curve and a changeup with good arm speed and fade deception to it. He’s got advance feel for pitching and consistently throws strikes.

"We know that Ryan is a guy who is committed to going to school, but our scout, Brad Cameron, really liked him," said San Francisco ’s John Barr on Giants.com. "Did we know it could be a difficult sign? Sure.”

Giants representatives made a home visit to the O’Sullivan’s El Cajon home prior to the draft.

Valhalla's Javier Brown (right), in 2005 action vs. Granite Hills. (File photo by Adolfo Villanueva)

Humphries was involved in graduation activities and therefore could not be reached by East County Sports.com.

“Brian let it be known what figure it would take to sign him,” said Humphries’ mother, Denise. “Even after the first day of the draft about half-dozen teams called and Brian stuck to his figure. He’s 18 years old so he can make his own decisions, but I’m so happy that he’s going to go to school first and then look into pro ball after that.”

The Red Sox “risked” a pick on drafting Humphries, hoping that he would spend the summer playing in the various scout leagues. Brian, however, said he needed a break from baseball and doesn’t plan to spend the summer exclusively on the diamond.

San Diego Christian College's MLB draft selections are Lance Janke (left) and Clint Preisendorfer. (SDCC courtesy photos)

Other East County players selected on Friday included Grossmont College-San Diego Christian College RHP LANCE JANKE (14th round, Cincinnati); Valhalla-UC Riverside infielder DREW GARCIA (21st round, White Sox); Santana High-Grossmont College-SDSU RHP SHANE KAUFMAN (28th round, San Francisco); Christian High shortstop EDDIE YOUNG (33rd round, White Sox); Valhalla High-Grossmont College shortstop JAVIER BROWN (37th round, Minnesota); Grossmont College RHP JESSE OROSCO (38th round, Arizona); and San Diego Christian College LHP CLINT PREISENDORFER (42nd round, Yankees).

Janke was the ace of the San Diego Christian pitching staff this season, posting a 5-6 record, 3.52 ERA while striking out 79 batters in 84.1 innings. He was also a first team All-Golden State Athletic Conference pick. Odds are he will turn pro.

One thing junior second baseman Drew Garcia has going for him is rich baseball bloodlines. He is the grandson of former major league manager and longtime scout DAVE GARCIA.

San Diego State's Shane Kaufman (left); UC Riverside's Drew Garcia. (Courtesy photos)

Christian High's Eddie Young (3). (ECS file photos)

His three uncles – Mark and identical twins Donnie and Ronny – all accepted scholarships to UCR and eventually played professional baseball. Mark and Donnie played college baseball while Ronny ran track for the Highlanders. Donnie was the highest pick of the trio, a 6th round pick of the Cleveland Indians in 1990.

The Grossmont College duo of Brown and Orosco figure to sign with their respective interested pro clubs. For Brown, who was drafted out of high school by the Mets in the 43rd round in 2005, this is a step up. Orosco pitched in only seven games at Grossmont College last year and has the option of returning. He is the son of veteran major league relief pitcher of the same name.

San Diego Christian’s Preisendorfer, a product of La Jolla High, offers the Yankees good size in that he is 6-foot-5, 235 pounds. He posted a 2-1 record in and a 5.00 ERA in 36 innings last season.

© East County Sports.com
BARONA INDIAN RESERVATION (5-3-08) — The Barona-San Diego Stars, a semipro baseball team which plays in the Western Wood Bat League and in the National Baseball Congress, is soon holding tryouts for the 2008 summer season.

Stars owner and manager MICKEY DEUTSCHMAN makes it clear every year, "Talent speaks." So if you still have the itch to continue your career (and are at least age 17), bring your own bat, glove, spikes and a helmet to the tryouts, scheduled for May 17 and 18, at 9 a.m. Auditions will be held at Stars Field, located 1.2 miles north of Barona Ranch Casino on Wildcat Canyon Road.

For further information, contact the Stars at (619) 448-7900, or email Coach Deutschman HERE. The Barona Stars website is HERE.

Courtesy, CCCAA media relations
LONG BEACH (5-11-08) — The Grossmont College women's tennis team won their first team state title since 2004 — and its state-record 11th in school history — after the Griffins defeated Chabot College, 5-3, in the California Community College Athletic Association team championship at El Dorado Tennis Center.

Ranked No. 3 in Southern California, the Griffins defeated top-ranked Orange Coast College in the Southern California finals to advance to the state championships and face Northern California 's top-rated Gladiators (19-2).

In the match, Grossmont (18-1) pulled off several upsets to come away with the victory.

In singles play alone, No. 9-ranked VANESA REIBSTEIN defeated Chabot's No. 3-ranked Megan Kummer, 6-0, 6-4, while unranked BRIANNA McCLINTOCK posted a three-set win over 15th-ranked Ana Wilson in the No. 4 position.

After splitting the six singles matches, the biggest upset of them all was a 6-2, 6-4 triumph by No. 11-ranked Reibstein and McClintock over top-ranked Kummer and Amber Marsden, who won the Northern California doubles championship. The Griffin duo won the Ojai Tournament doubles championship the previous week.

The match was clinched when the doubles team of DANIELLE BRYAN and JOANNA MOYA defeated No. 6-ranked Colean Tang and Wilson, 7-5, 6-3.

The title was the Griffins first since capturing three straight crowns from 2002-04.

Singles
1. Vanesa Reibstein (GC) d. Megan Kummer (CHA), 6-0, 6-4
2. Colean Tang (CHA) d. Danielle Bryan (GC), 6-4, 6-2
3. Amber Marsden (CHA) d. Joanna Moya (GC), 6-4, 6-0
4. Brianna McClintock (GC) d. Ana Wilson (CHA) 6-3, 2-6, 6-4
5. JUSTINE GORDON (GC) d. Yuki Matsuoka (CHA), 6-2, 7-5
6. Pearl Leung (CHA) d. NICOLE TOSCHES (GC), 6-1, 6-4

Doubles
1. Reibstein/McClintock1 (GC) d. Kummer/Marsden (CHA), 6-2, 6-4
2. Moya/Bryan (GC) d. Tang/Wilson (CHA), 7-5, 6-3 (clinched match)
3. NICHOLS/Gordon (GC) v. Medalle/Reykalin (CHA) DNF

© East County Sports.com
BALBOA PARK (4-23-08) — Former Grossmont College standout and 1981 NFL most valuable player BRIAN SIPE will be one of the featured guests when the San Diego Hall of Champions hosts three Sports At Lunch events at the museum in May.

The first luncheon finds the U.S. Open golf championship in the spotlight with a pair of former Open champions who hail from San Diego -- Billy Casper (1959 and 1966) and Scott Simpson (1987).

In addition, Mark Woodward, the Golf Operations Manager at Torrey Pines Golf Course, will speak about preparing the course for the Open, slated for June 12-15.

Sipe will join the football themed program on May 20, to be joined in a rare appearance by DON CORYELL, the former head coach at San Diego State and for the San Diego Chargers. They will be joined by ABC Sports announcer DAN FOUTS, and former Aztecs All-America and NFL All-Pro lineman FRED DEYER.

Finally, baseball takes the stage on May 21 with JERRY COLEMAN, the former New York Yankees' World Series MVP, who is now enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame in the broadcasters wing.

Coleman will speak about his career -- both in and out of baseball -- and introduce his new book. Ted Leitner will serve as moderator of the event, followed by a book signing.

The price for each luncheon range from $25 to $45, with discounts for Hall members, Discounts are also available for attending more than one event.

Reservations for any of these Hall of Champions Sports at Lunch are available by calling the Halls' Events Department at (619) 699-2309, or signing up online, at: www.sdhoc.com.

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (4-21-08) — The Santana High baseball team is holding a charity golf tournament to assist with the Sultans' upgrading of their on-campus facility. Included will be the installation of a new infield for the ballpark.

The event will be held at Carlton Oaks Country Club on Sun., May 4, with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The cost is $99, which includes golf and a post-event dinner, or $40 for non-golfers.

Among the highlights will be a $10,000 hole-in-one prize, along with a putting contest, closest-to-the-pin contest, a longest drive competition and a raffle. During the dinner, awards will be presented, along with a silent auction.

Registration ends on Apr. 25, with the baseball team seeking sponsors at various levels (from $75 to $2,000). For further information, call (619) 448-4415 or email HERE.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-8-08) — The Grossmont College Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises money for scholarships, facility improvements and more to benefit the college is hosting the 6thannual BRAD DALUISO Golf Classic. The fund-raising tournament will be held Fri., May 9, at the Sycuan Resort & Casino’s Willow Glen Course, 3007 Dehesa Road, El Cajon. The public is invited to play; the event starts at noon.

A handful of player spots are still available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The shotgun start features a scramble format. Four-player teams will consist of flights for men, ladies and mixed. Entry donation to play is $200 per person, or $800 for a foursome, which includes green fees, cart, tee prizes, gift bag, raffle prizes, box lunch, snacks, beverages, a hosted reception, player awards and post-golf awards dinner. Additional tournament activities include a putting contest, hole-in-one prizes and opportunity raffle drawing.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and donations of merchandise and professional services for the raffle are welcomed.

The tournament’s founder and namesake is Brad Daluiso, who played football for the Griffins in 1987 and 1988, hen professionally in the NFL as a kicker and punter for 12 seasons (1990-2001), mostly with the New York Giants.

Today, Daluiso, a financial advisor with Citi Smith Barney’s The Scott Group, remains an active supporter of Grossmont College and serves on the Grossmont College Foundation’s Community Council.

In 2003, he was inducted into the Grossmont College Walk of Fame.

For more information about registration and donation opportunities, contact Alexis Popko at the foundation office at (619) 644-7109, or via e-mail at grossmont.foundation@gcccd.edu, or visit www.grossmont.edu/foundation.

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (3-23-08) — It was fun and games for "old-timers" 21 and over at Helix High School on Saturday afternoon (Mar. 22).

The inaugural "Old Olympic Games," sponsored by the Helix Athletic Alumni Association to benefit the Helix High Athletic Foundation, featured athletes, used-to-be athletes, and even some wanna-be athletes competing in baseball, basketball, football, golf, strength, swimming and track & field, culminating in a catered patio dinner and music for participants and their families.

DANNY MILLER was the big winner, taking top prize in the 100-yard dash, the long jump and the shot put. His prize: a 5-day vacation for two to Hawai'i.

"Obviously the main goal here was to help raise money for the foundation and kinda give back to the school and community that did so much for us when we were students," said Miller, a 1994 Helix High graduate. "I didn't want to just blindly write a check to the school. It was nice for all of us to get together and create a sense of tradition of community and family. Just a great excuse for us to get together to have some fun and some laughs."

The event raised $12,500.

Runner-up honors went to BRANDON AASEN, who won the punt, pass and kick contest, the home run derby and the closest to the pin in golf. STEVE COX canned the most 3-point baskets in the hoops (hitting 7 of 10) and scored enough points to finish third overall.

KARIM RAFAAT outlasted all others in the pull-up contest on his way to a 4th place finish, while PAUL ZELEASKI pounded out the pull-ups to prevail in that event and place 5th overall.

In other events, JOEL MONTIER took home top honors in the mile run, RYAN DANZ hurled the fastest pitch in baseball, and PHIL GIORDANO made the most free throws.

"I wrestled, played football and track," Miller said. "Nowadays, it's not like I can go pick up a game of wrestling or football. So it's nice to go out and compete like we did today. You start to miss that later in life.'

All individual event winners earned a $50 gift certificate to La Mesa's newest restaurant, The Vine at the Garden, which anticipates a May opening. Owners GABE GIORDANO (Helix Class of '94) and Miller are in the process of an extensive remodeling at the site of the former Village Garden Restaurant.

"We have a good, solid group of alumni that come together for just causes like this one," Gabe Giordano said. "We were a real unique group of guys and it stems from the coaches ' coach JIM ARNAIZ, coach DONNIE VAN HOOK and coach RICK ASH. We've been successful in business and have been able to give back, which is nice."

The events of the day put the "fun" in fundraising for a lot of Helix alumni families and friends. Monies raised will go towards athletic scholarships and other beneficial pursuits to assist Highlanders past and present.

"We want to continue on and make this an annual event," Miller said. "We had a lot of guys step up and donate a lot of money. We're going to get five to 10 scholarships out of this at least."

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (3-15-08) — Helix High School will host the ‘Old Olympic Games” on Saturday (Mar. 22) beginning at 1 p.m. (check-in at 12:30). The event will benefit the Helix High Foundation. Everyone is welcome, but participants must be at least 21 years old.

For a $50 donation, individuals – male and female – can compete in:

Baseball: Fastest pitch, home run derby
Basketball: Free throw & 3-point competitions
Football: Punt, pass and kick
Golf: Closest to the pin
Strength: Most pushups (2 minutes), most pull-ups
Swimming: 100 meter freestyle, breath-holding contest
Track & Field: 100-yard dash, 1-mile run, long jump and shot put

The overall champion wins a 5-day Hawaiian vacation for 2. Each event winner will receive a $50 gift certificate.

Donations (entry fees) should be made payable to the Helix High School Foundation, a California Non-Profit Public Benefit Corporation, 7323 University Avenue, La Mesa, CA 91941. Donations will also be accepted the day of the event.

There will be a dinner awards ceremony with food and live music from 6–9 p.m. at The Village Restaurant in La Mesa.

For further information call (619) 644-1940, ext. 182.

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (3-11-08) — The CIF-San Diego Section is pleased to announce the 2008 Girls and Boys Senior All Stars basketball games to be held Friday (Mar. 21), at Rancho Bernardo High School pitting the North All Stars against the South All-Stars.

The girls game will start at 5:30 p.m. with a 3-Point Shooting Contest at halftime.

The following East County student athletes will compete on the girls South All Stars team: NICOLE BRZECZEK (Santana), CINDY EKWEOZOR (Mount Miguel), MOLLY HILLENBRAND (Granite Hills), AUTUMN SPIKES (Mount Miguel), BRITTANY WILLIAMS (Helix).

The boys games will begin at 8 p.m. with a 3-Point Shooting Contest at halftime. A Slam-Dunk Contest will be held at approximately 7:15 p.m.

The following East County student athletes will compete on the boys South All Stars team: BARRETT BRAUN (El Capitan), IAN COCHRAN (Grossmont), DANIEL HAZLETT (Christian), DONNIE McGOWAN (Helix), RICHARD OGUNSALU (Grossmont).

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (3-14-08) -- SAMI B. NEDJAR, one of the most successful soccer coaches in both the club, high school and community college levels in San Diego County history, finally gained a promotion after 20 years, named as the assistant men's soccer coach at San Diego State University.

Aztecs coach Lev Kirshner announced Tuesday (Mar. 12) the hiring of Nedjar, who brings 23 years of coaching experience to The Mesa, including 11 seasons at the collegiate level.

Nedjar once guided the boys team at Granite Hills High to four consecutive CIF-San Diego Section Division I titles (2001-04), putting together a 66-game unbeaten streak. Included was his 2003 ballclub which finished ranked No. 1 in the nation at 28-0-3.

Concurrently, he also guided the Cuyamaca College women's soccer team to consecutive Pacific Coast Conference crowns (2001-02).

Nedjar's girls teams at Granite Hills also captured six Grossmont Soth League titles. He also coached at Occidental College, leading the Tigers men to their best win-loss record ever.

At the club level, his Hotspurs USA program has produced numerous regional and state titles, placing dozens of players at four-year schools.

The entire announcement can be found at www.GoAztecs.com.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (3-01-08) -- Two East County high school baseball teams will offer tributes on Saturday (Mar. 1) -- the start of the East County season -- to persons who were major contributors to their respective baseball programs.

El Cajon Valley High will honor the late JOE KENNEDY, a 1996 graduate who played three seasons for the Braves and eventually pitched six years with seven teams in the major leagues. Kennedy, 28, died suddenly Nov. 23, in Tampa, Fla.

Meanwhile, Grossmont High will recognize the support of PATSY EARLY, a volunteer who made the Foothillers' concession stand the best in East County and a rival of any in the San Diego CIF Section. Earley, 64, died on Feb. 6.

The Kennedy tribute will take place prior to the Braves' game against visiting El Centro-Central in the Bully's East Tournament opener at 11 a.m. A shade tree will be planted next to the snack bar in Kennedy's honor and a plaque will placed at a location to be determined.

El Cajon Valley Athletic Director RANDY ROBINSON will announce the establishment of a scholarship in Kennedy's memory to be awarded to a student-athlete attending a community college.

The turning point in Kennedy's career came when while he attended Grossmont College. Then-Grossmont coach ED OLSEN, a veteran of numerous pro and college seasons as a coach and manager, insisted that Kennedy focus on making a living as a left-handed pitcher.

Grossmont, which opens the season by hosting Carlsbad in the first round of the Foothiller-Aztec Classic Saturday at 10:30, plans a pregame ceremony to honor the late Mrs. Earley.

According to Grossmont baseball coach ROB PHILLIPS, the plan is to unveil a sign that reads, "Patsy Earley's Place (est. 1987): In loving memory from Past, Present and Future Foothillers."

"You just don't replace people like Pasty Earley," Phillips said. "Most don't realize what she did for us. For the last 21 years, she kept our snack open and fully stocked whether it was for a varsity, junior varsity, freshman, summer league or alumni game. If somebody was playing on our field, she had the windows open."

Earley will be remembered for her friendly smile and warm welcome to the many baseball players, fans and coaches who visited Joe Gizoni Field.

A scholarship fund has been set up in Earley's name at any Washington Mutual Bank.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-17-08) — The first phase in the overhaul of athletic facilities at Grossmont College was completed last week, when Mashin-Roth Memorial Field saw its playing surface replaced with the newest generation of Field Turf artificial grass.

The field was made available for use following a one month construction project. The total cost is just over $600,000.

"We couldn't be happier with the new turf, but it was much more than that," noted Jim Spillers, the associate dean for physical education and athletics. "Many people think this was a football-only project, but it was so much more."

Spillers noted that in addition to football -- Grossmont College was the 2005 J.C. Grid-Wire community college national champions -- the field is utilized by a successful women's soccer program, plus exercise and fitness courses.

"We also allow AOJ (Administration of Justice) training at the stadium, which is something our administration is very proud of" added Spillers. "And we have so many other events -- it's becoming more and more a community facility."

Field Turf was first installed eight years ago, as Grossmont College and La Jolla High's Gene Edwards Stadium were the first in San Diego County to install it. Since then, more than two dozen schools -- including six high schools in the Grossmont Conference -- have removed traditional grass with the surface.

However, Mashin-Roth will be the first to install the third generation of Field Turf.

"Since we were the first to allow Field Turf to break into the market, they gave us a great price and a 10-year guarantee," Spillers noted on the field, which features a giant yellow Griffins logo at midfield. "And the price included the re-grading of the field to assist with drainage issues after the field settled after we put the turf in the first time."

Spillers also announced the replacement of the hardwood floor inside the Grossmont College Gymnasium, which has featured the same court since the building was erected when the campus first opened in the early 1960s. The month-long project is slated for June following the end of the current academic calendar and will not interfere with classes or sports team practices.

The director of athletics also noted that the remodeling of the locker room and coaches offices building is two months ahead of schedule, and should also reopen during the summer.

Located between the gymnasium and the swimming pool, the building will feature team rooms for Griffins varsity sports teams, women's and men's locker rooms, offices for both coaches and exercise science instructors, plus a completely revamped sports medicine complex.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-24-08) -- Former Grossmont College and El Cajon Valley High standout JOE KENNEDY, who lived his childhood dream by becoming a major league baseball player before passing away late November, will be honored Saturday (Jan. 26) when the Griffins play their home opener at Noel Michelsen Field.

UPDATE: Ceremonies will start at 12:50 p.m., followed by a 1 p.m. single game against San Bernardino Valley College. The changes were due to field conditions from the recent rain.

Kennedy, 28, who developed into a major league pitcher under former Grossmont skipper ED OLSEN, toiled for six seasons with seven ballclubs, most recently the Toronto Blue Jays, before his sudden death while celebrating Thanksgiving with relatives in Tampa, Fla.

He leaves his wife, Jami -- who is expecting a second child next summer -- and their 1-year-old son, Kaige.

The Griffins will be dedicating the season to Kennedy, wearing his No. 17 on their caps. Friends, family, and former teammates are invited to attend, especially given that his official memorial was in Denver.

Grossmont opens its season Friday at SBVC to start a 3-game series with the Wolverines.

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (1-10-08) -- The San Diego Padres are offering a complimentary clinic for youth baseball and softball coaches. The free clinics will be held at Petco Park this weekend, Jan. 12-13, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Included among the instructor is Sandy Alderson, the Padres' Chief Executive Officer, and members of the minor league coaching and scouting staff.

The first session is Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon for coaches and managers of baseball players age 9-12 years ago. The afternoon session deals with players ages 5-8. On the Sunday, the clinics feature instruction regarding players in both baseball and softball.

Participating coaches should wear comfortable clothing, bring a baseball glove and wear athletic shoes – cleats and spikes will not be allowed.

For further information or to register, visit the Padres websites at www.padres.com or www.padresbeisbol.com (in Spanish).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-23-07) -- San Diego Padres outfielder BRIAN GILES will make a guest appearance at the upcoming West Coast Baseball Camp, presented by former Granite Hills High and Grossmont College standout JOHN BARNES, who later played for the Minnesota Twins.

Two seperate camps will be held, on Dec.29-30 and Jan. 5-6, and is open to players of all skill levels aged 6-18. Each 2-day camp costs $125. Camp sessions will be held at Granite Hills and Singing Hills Little League. For further information, visit the camp's website: www.wcbaseballcamps.com, or call (619) 665-5868.

Giles had microfracture surgery on his right knee two days after the season ended in October, and is continuing his rehabilitation.

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (11-29-07) -- The Associated Students of Helix High School is sponsoring a Dodgeball tournament, with proceeds to benefit City of La Mesa employees Dan Lachenbruch and Larry Hawkins, who both lost their homes during the recent Harris Fire.

The event is slated for Fri., Dec. 14, at Helix' Caledonia Gymnasium, as four teams from the La Mesa Police Dept. will tangle with four teams composed of firefighters stationed in firehouses within the City of La Mesa.

The dodgeball games start at 3 p.m. with free admisison, with donations gladly accepted at the door. In addition, businesses are asked to donate $100 for sponsorship banners at the event. If you can help or to sponsor, contact LMPD Cpt. Aceves at (619) 667-1430.

IN MEMORY: MICHAEL DURDEN (1960-2007)

IN MEMORY: JOE KENNEDY (1979-2007)

© East County Sports.com REDONDO BEACH (11-28-07) — MICHAEL DURDEN, a quarterback, wide receiver and defensive back in the late 1970s for the Helix Highlanders, died Monday night (Nov. 26) due to complications from diabetes. The oldest of three sons of former San Diego Chargers coach EARNEL DURDEN, Michael Durden earned four letters as a UCLA cornerback (1979-82). He was 47 when he died at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Torrance. As a college senior, he was a key contributor on a Bruins squad that went 10-1-1 and defeated Michigan in the 1983 Rose Bowl to finishe ranked No. 5 in the nation. Durden, who also excelled in basketball and track at Helix, spent three seasons with Canadian Football League’s Edmonton Eskimos and one with the NFL's New York Jets. The Durden family has always been burning with a competitive flame. Allan Durden, the youngest of Earnel’s three sons, still has it. Among the most memorable contests involving family members was a 13-13 tie between Michael’s UCLA Bruins and Allan’s Arizona Wildcats at the Rose Bowl in 1982. Allan, who was a DB-WR for Helix’s undefeated CIF-San Diego Section 3A champions in 1980, accepted a scholarship to Arizona where he garnered All-American honors as a senior. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions, then traded first to the Buffalo Bills and then to the Chargers, where a knee injury ended his pro career. Brother Kevin Durden – now deceased – was a captain on the 1980 team at Helix, and earned a football scholarship to Idaho State, where his career was also curtailed by a knee injury. Michael Durden and his family lived in Redondo Beach. He is survived by his wife, Donna, sons Eric and Parris, daughters Lisa and Brandy, his mother, June, and father, Earnel.

Joe Kennedy (circa March 2007, with Colorado Rockies) © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (11-24-07) -- Those who knew him remember JOE KENNEDY as a soft-hearted baseball player who defied the odds. As a 12-year-old El Cajon American Little League All-Star in 1991, Kennedy, a southpaw who regarded catcher as his primary position, took his youthful band of ballplayers to the semifinals of the Western Regionals in San Bernardino. That was only the beginning for Kennedy, who would eventually spend six seasons with seven teams in the major leagues. At 28, Kennedy, a former El Cajon Valley High and Grossmont College baseball icon, died suddenly at the Tampa, Fla., home of the parents of his wife, JAMI, while celebrating the Thanksgiving Holiday. Kennedy, who planned to be the best man in the wedding of one of his baseball friends Friday (Nov. 23) afternoon, collapsed in the wee hours that morning. After going to bed early, relatives said he woke up at about 1:15 a.m. (EDT) Friday and collapsed as he was leaving the bedroom. He was transported to a local hospital and pronounced dead on arrival. A free agent major league in the making, Kennedy was known more for his .524 batting average than his pitching or defense. After playing around the horn during as three-varsity tenure at El Cajon Valley High, Kennedy caught the eye of Grossmont College coach ED OLSEN. A veteran of numerous pro and college seasons as a coach and manager, Olsen insisted that Kennedy surrender his bat and focus on making a living as a left-handed pitcher. "Like most young kids, Joe wanted to keep swinging the bat," Olsen said. "He didn't like it when I told him, 'to play for me, you have to be a pitcher'" Kennedy posted nothing but positive marks as a Grossmont College freshman. He performed well enough to impress then Tampa Bay scout CRAIG WEISSMANN, who convinced his organization to select Kennedy in the 8th round of the 1998 draft. This past season, the journeyman pitched for three ballclubs, finishing with the Toronto Blue Jays, making his last appearance in relief on Sept. 29 in a 5-3 win over Tampa Bay. Kennedy was a free agent, but the Blue Jays indicated they were interested in re-signing the veteran, who had a 43-61 career record with a 4.79 ERA in 222 appearances. He leaves his wife -- who is expecting a second child next summer -- and their 1-year-old son, Kaige. The family recently purchased a new home in Boulder, Colo.

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (10-22-07) -- With Qualcomm Stadium, including the parking lot and portions of the concourse, being used as an evacuation compound because of a series of 8 major wildfires burning throughout San Diego County, the status of professional and amateur football games scheduled for the weekend are currently unchanged or undetermined.

On Saturday (Oct. 27) night, San Diego State is slated to host Brigham Young in a Mountain West Conference ballgame. The following Sunday (Oct. 28) afternoon, the San Diego Chargers are listed hosting the Houston Texans.

San Diego State canceled classes and practices for all sports programs Monday. The Aztecs were keeping in touch with players whose families live in affected areas.

However, the Mountain West Conference said Saturday's San Diego State-BYU contest remains scheduled.

Meanwhile, Chargers spokesman BILL JOHNSTON, an East County resident, stated, "It's way too early to determine if the NFL will change the site of the game."

Because of the Cedar Fire four years ago, the Chargers were forced to relocate a game with the Miami Dolphins to Sundevil Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. The stadium is again available, but since then, the Arizona Cardinals have moved to University of Phoenix Stadium in nearby Glendale, Ariz., but its availability is in question.

"Every weekend that the Cardinals are on the road, we have some sort of event in the stadium," said Cardinals spokesman Mark Dalton. "We'll have a motorcycle show running Friday through Sunday, so I don't know if we can get the field ready in time for a Monday game, even though we have a retractable playing surface."

Because of unhealthy air quality due to smoke, the Chargers announced they canceled Monday's practice, then will fly to the Valley of the Sun on Tuesday, holding practice at the Cardinals' training headquarters in Tempe over the balance of the week.

"Our overwhelming priority now is the safety of our players and staff and their families," the Chargers said in a statement. "Our prayers are with everyone who is impacted by this tragedy."

Fortunately, the Cards have a bye this weekend and were only scheduled for limited workouts.

"Our team is more than willing to accommodate them," added Dalton . "But as of this afternoon, we have not been contacted by the Chargers or the NFL about any contingency plans to relocate the game."

Mark Brand, Arizona State 's associate athletic director for facilities, noted that the NFL has not contacted the school about use of Sundevil Stadium.

Texans coach Gary Kubiac know all about fires affecting not only a football team, but a community as well.

"You're concerned for those people in California in those fires," said Kubiac. "I've been through that in Denver and that's a horrible thing, so you just keep them in your prayers."

"They'll figure out a time for us to play the football game."

Kubiac also noted he was told a move to Sunday night or Monday night was being considered if the game is relocated to Arizona .

Locally, Grossmont College has a bye date, thus the cancellation of practice and classes should post little effect on the Griffins. The team's next ballgame isn't until Nov. 3 at San Diego Mesa College .

High school sports officials from both the Grossmont Conference and the CIF-San Diego Section are expected to make a statement Wednesday morning about upcoming sports events, including football. For now, games and practices countywide are canceled through at least Wednesday.

© East County Sports.com
JAMUL (10-15-07) -- A pair of East County based all-state performers -- fastpitch first baseman-pitcher LORENA KLOPP of Steele Canyon High and basketball shooting guard TROY LEAF of Foothills Christian High -- have given verbal commitments to play at San Diego State University in 2010-11.

Both are sophomores and have three seasons in their prep sports careers, yet both took the opportunity to virtually lockdown their futures early.

Per NCAA rules, the coaching staffs from both Aztecs programs can not make public comment until a player officially signs a Letter of Intent as early as a player's junior year. Yet both underclassmen feel comfortable with the direction of both SDSU teams and that full-ride scholarships will be tendered when the appropriate signing periods arrive.

"I always wanted to go to San Diego State," said Klopp, who made a pair of Cal Hi Sports teams, named first-team among medium-size schools and second-team among underclassmen. "I've gone to several camps there and really liked the coaching staff."

"So when we (Klopp and her parents) met the coaches last Friday, I was already sure this is where I wanted to go."

Along with the two-time CIF Division III champion Cougars, Klopp is a standout for the Power Surge 18-Gold club program. At Steele Canyon, she captured the East County batting title (.531 with 101 total bases) while driving in 60 runs -- the second-highest RBI total in section history.

"I'll still try as hard as I can, but it does take a lot of pressure off knowing where I will play in college," added Klopp, who foresees being a business major in three years.

Klopp will rejoin high school teammate SAM BEASLEY, the reigning San Diego Section player of the year, who is a freshman this year after being named an EA Sports All-American and one of Cal Hi Sports state players of the year last spring.

Meanwhile, Leaf, tabbed to Cal Hi Sports' all-state freshmen squad is pleased to join head coach STEVE FISHER's Aztecs roster. Leaf led all East County scorers at 25.2 points per contest, en route to leading the Knights to both the Citrus League and CIF Division V championships.

"We've been close to the Aztecs' coaching staff for a while," said BRAD LEAF, Troy 's father and head coach at Foothills. "Troy 's been wanting to go there since he was little, so we're not worried about what other (offers) may be out there. We're excited about him being an Aztec."

Leaf was named Citrus League Player of the Year and was a third-team pick on the All-San Diego Union-Tribune team.

As a freshman, Leaf was listed 8th overall on the All-East County team, with seven players in front of him -- all seniors.

© East County Sports.com
BALBOA PARK (9-13-07) -- A pair of brothers from El Cajon were honored by the San Diego Hall of Champions, each named one of the Breitbard Stars of the Month for August.

Tabbed were minor league baseball pitcher SEAN O'SULLIVAN (Valhalla High/Grossmont College) and amateur pitcher RYAN O'SULLIVAN, Sean's younger brother, also out of Valhalla.

Sean O'Sullivan earned his fifth career Star of the Month citation, this time while pitching for the Cedar Rapids Kernals of the Los Angeles Angels system. In his second pro season, he won the Class A Midwest League ERA title with a mark of 2.22.

For the month, he posted a 4-0 record with an ERA of 0.49 ERA as the Kernals won the Midwest Division title. He also was named the Pitcher of the Week by Minor League Baseball.com for Aug. 20-26. His season record was 10-6.

Meanwhile, Ryan O'Sullivan, a pitcher and shortstop, was one 38 players in the nation named an Aflac All-American and played in the Aflac All-America High School Baseball Classic on Aug. 11 at Tony Gwynn Stadium.

O'Sullivan pitched a 1-2-3 second inning to earn his first Star of the Month award, becoming the first set of brother to participate in the Aflac game.

Fred Featherstone

© East County Sports.com
SAN MARCOS (8-20-07) --Veteran Grossmont College men's volleyball coach FRED FEATHERSTONE has been selected the Pacific Coast Conference Coach of the Year covering all sports for 2006-07.

Featherstone's teams have advanced to the state playoffs in 13 of the past 17 seasons, including a berth this past spring after the Griffins posted an overall record of 13-5, including an upset of Orange Coast when the Pirates were ranked No. 1 in California.

In conference play, Grossmont took Irvine Valley to a fifth game in the season's regular season finale in Orange County, but the Lasers took the tiebreaker to claim the PCC crown, leaving the Griffins in second place. In the COA playoffs, Grossmont held leads in two games before eventually falling on the road to L.A. Pierce.

For Featherstone's consistency in annually developing playoff caliber teams, he was bestowed the honor in voting among conference athletic directors and the commissioner.