Helix band members hoist the hardware ("Stolen" from Facebook)

Helix band claims Mt. Carmel Tournament of Bands crown

© East County Sports.com
RANCHO PENASQUITOS (10-29-12) — The Helix Highlander Band, six-time sweepstakes award-winners of the Mother Goose Parade, added to their lengthy ledger of success after capturing first prize in the 4A Division of the Mt. Carmel Tournament of Bands on Saturday (Oct. 27).

Students performed their field show, “Music from Carmen,” to win the division, based upon judging on music, marching and the general effect of the show.

A leading factor to the group's success was the Helix Highlander Color Guard. Their movements and costumes lend much to the overall visual interpretation of the music. The Color Guard took third place for auxiliary in the field show.

In addition, the Highlander Band’s competitive parade block took third place in its division, performing John Philip Sousa’s “Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.”

The entire program will be repreated at halftime this Friday (Nov. 2) at the school's final home football game of the regular season, when the Scotties seek to clinch the Grossmont Hills League title outright with a victory over visiting Steele Canyon.
The band, which had performed in prestigous events including the Tournament of Roses Parade, had six main components: bagpipes, color guard, orchestra, concert band, symphonic band and wind symphony.

© East County Sports.com
IMPERIAL BEACH (8-29-12) — Former San Diego CIF Commissioner Kendall Webb, who held the position from 1976 to 1996, died Sunday (Aug. 26) just minutes after winning his age division in the Surf Town race.

According to his wife, Dixie, Webb had just completed the 1-mile run, 8-mile bike and 3-mile run duathlon when he reached for a fence 10 feet past the finish line to steady himself before collapsing.

Webb was pronounced dead at Chula Vista Scripps Hospital about 30 minutes following the race.

Webb, unquestionably one of the more likeable commissioners in the San Diego Section’s 62-year history, had turned 80 on Aug. 20 and celebrated that milestone with his daughter on a hike up a 10,000-foot mountain near Yosemite.

Webb served as an assistant commissioner of the CIF before being named the top administrator for high school sports in the San Diego Section. He was the second commissioner of the San Diego Section, which was formed in 1960.

During his tenure as commissioner in San Diego , Webb helped introduce numerous changes into the local sports scene, including adding dozens of girls sports after the passage of Title IX in the early 1970s. He was also instrumental in setting eligibility policies and making tough decisions in several high-profile cases, including a fifth year of eligibility for La Jolla Country Day’s Rashaan Salaam, who would go on to win the 1994 Heisman Trophy for Colorado.

A public memorial service is scheduled for 10 a.m. Sept. 8 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 10985 Camino Playa Carmel in Tierrasanta.

Nic Long

London 2012 BMX Page

Long eliminated from Olympics in BMX quarterfinals

© East County Sports.com
LONDON (8-10-12) — The final competitive moment of the London Olympics for Lakeside's NIC LONG turned out to be both a victory and a defeat. RESULTS

On Thursday (Aug. 9), Long captured his final heat in the BMX quarterfinals at the Games, but a third-place finish by Rogert Rinderknecht of Switzerland was good enough to nip Long by one point to earn the final berth into the semifinals.

Rinderknecht tied with David Herman of Henderson, Nev., with 18 points, while Long finished with 19 points to miss Friday's final day of BMX competition. For Herman, advancing was surprising after he finished last in the first of five heats in the quarterfinals after finishing in the back of a crash which wiped out all riders except the lead.

Herman joins fellow American rider Conner Fields of Plano, Texas, the top-seed after dominating his heats with three straight victories without a loss, as did Raymon van der Biezen of The Netherlands.

Surge claim WFA football crown © East County Sports.com PITTSBURGH (8-5-12) — The roots of full-contact women's football in the county date back to the San Diego Lobos from the mid-1970s. There have been others ballcluns since then, but until now, none could be called national champions. Partaking in the first-ever Women's Football Alliance contest in a National Football League stadium, the East County based San Diego Surge completed a perfect season after nipping the Chicago Force, 40-36, in the WFA title game at Heinz Field. FINAL STATS Holly Peterson returned the opening kickoff 82 yards for a San Diego touchdown,but Chicago bounced back to claim a 36-27 advantage. However, the Surge scored twice in the final 2:28, featuring a 66-yard punt runback by Cassey Brick with 1:49 remaining. San Diego (12-0) then staved Chicago's final chance with a championship-clinching interception by CILENA MOSLEY at the Surge 6-yard line with 18 seconds remaining before a crowd of more than 2,300 spectators. Brick was named the most valubale player of the final after the wide receiver also caught four balls for 120 yards and a pair of touchdowns. In all, Brick finished with four scores, also rushing four times for 29 yards and a TD. Surge quarterback Melissa Gallegos threw for 261 yards and three touchdowns, including an 88-yard TD strike to JESSICA JAVELET, in the battle of unbeaten ballclubs. Javelet also led the Surge in total tackles on defense. The Force finished at 11-1 overall. The ballgame was broadcast on ESPN3 and hosted by the Pittsburgh Passion, founded by co-owner Franco Harris, the Hall of Fame Steelers running back. The WFA is a nation-wide, 62-team league of semipro, full-contact women's football teams. MORE from ESPNW

Stars announce complete academy program Tryouts for 13-and-under team on Aug. 22-23 © East County Sports.com SANTEE (8-1-12) — Following the lead of many other collegiate and semipro baseball organizations, the San Diego Stars semipro baseball team and the San Diego Baseball Academy are joining forces by starting a youth program to develop a composite, all-age group line-up of ballclubs. Headed by longtime Stars owner/manager Mickey Deutschman, who spent more than 20 years as a scout in the Atlanta Braves organization, the program is already looking to put together ballclubs for play in Fall ball, building toward the 2013 summer season. Assisting Deutschman will be other coaches with professional playing and coaching experience, including current Serra High head coach Scott "Hoppy" Hopgood, and many others, including players from the Stars. The first set of tryouts will be for the 13-and-under ballclub, which will be held on Aug. 22-23, from 6-8 p.m., and on Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon. All will be held at Stars Field, located on Wildcat Canyon Road, just one mile north of Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino (behind Barona Museum). To register for tryouts or for further information, contact the Stars at (619) 608-7730. The Stars recently completed its summer-ball regular season, posting a winning record for the 31st time in 32 seasons. They will complete their season over Labor Day weekend, participating in the invitation-only Grand Forks International Classic, to be held in Grand Forks, B.C., Canada.

Heartland Fire & Rescue fire chief Rick Sitta

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJOIN (8-7-12) — The cities of El Cajon, La Mesa and Lemon Grove, whose jointly managed fire departments make up Heartland Fire & Rescue, have selected RICK SITTA as its new fire chief. Sitta replaces Chief MIKE SCOTT, who retired on July 27.

The city managers for the three cities, Douglas Williford of El Cajon, Dave Witt of La Mesa, and Graham Mitchell of Lemon Grove, made the announcement Tuesday (Aug. 7) after completing the recruitment process on Monday..

Sitta has served as Deputy Fire Chief of Heartland Fire & Rescue since January 2010. Between 2003 and his elevation to Deputy Fire Chief, he served as a Fire Division Chief in both El Cajon and in Coronado.

Sitta has been heavily involved in fire operations throughout the region, including Command Staff positions on Cal Fire Type I Incident Management teams for major wildland responses throughout the State of California, and an active participant in the implementation of operational policies being shared by fire agencies Countywide. Sitta was honored with a commendation for bravery during the devastating 2003 Cedar Fire in San Diego County.

The City Managers confirmed that Sitta's selection will be effective today. He will be paid $134,950 annually.

As the new Heartland Fire Chief, Sitta will oversee operations of the cooperative management services for the three fire and rescue departments in El Cajon, La Mesa and Lemon Grove. The three cities merged their fire services on January 1, 2010, after the City Councils for those cities approved a Joint Powers Agreement that created a single management team to oversee the day-to-day operations for the three fire departments.

"The Joint Powers Agreement which formed Heartland Fire & Rescue has been a major success", said Douglas Williford, "and Rick has played a significant role in that success. We were fortunate to have such a highly qualified individual already within the organization and we look forward to working with Chief Sitta as he assumes his new duties."

Heartland fire chief Mike Scott retires.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (7-30-12) — MIKE SCOTT, who has served as fire chief for Heartland Fire & Rescue, retired Sunday (July 29) following a 28-year career.

Starting as a firefighter in 1984, Scott continued his rise through the ranks until becoming the El Cajon fire chief in 2005, then the Heartland chief in 2009, overseeing a department which covers the cities of El Cajon, La Mesa and Lemon Grove.

Scott began his career with the department as a firefighter/paramedic. then was one of the original California Task Force-8 Urban Search and Rescue team members in our state.

He started as a Technical Rescue Specialist and deployed to the Northridge Earthquake in 1994 and to the Atlanta Olympics bombing in 1996. Mike transferred to the Canine Division where he was partnered with “Billy,” a devoted Black Labrador, in November of 1998. Mike and Billy became the second Canine Search team in the county ever to be certified by FEMA. They served several local missions before being deployed to Ground Zero shortly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York.

Later, the city managers of El Cajon, La Mesa and Lemon Grove announced the appointment of Scott as chief to oversee the operations of the cooperative management services for the three departments when they merged on Jan. 1, 2010. The Joint Powers Agreement created a single management team to oversee the day-to-day operations of the three fire departments. These efforts were recognized by the Taxpayers Association when Scott accepted the Golden Watchdog in May of 2010.

Chief Scott said following his announcement, "I have been deeply honored to serve as the fire chief for the Heartland Fire & Rescue Joint Powers Agreement. We have built a solid organizational foundation and I am confident that this effort will continue to succeed. It has been my privilege to serve the community, the elected officials, the city managers and the dedicated employees of our fire department."

El Cajon city manager Douglas Williford said, “Mike has been an exemplary Fire Chief and deserves a lot of the credit for the success of the consolidation of the three separate City fire departments into Heartland Fire & Rescue. I will miss him personally and the entire East County Heartland region will miss him collectively. He is leaving very big shoes to fill for his successor.”

Surge again head into WFA's Final Four © East County Sports.com LA MESA (7-8-12) — The undefeated San Diego Surge semipro women's football team will again play for the American Conference championship of the Women's Football Alliance after whipping the Bay Area (San Pablo) Bandits, 42-7, Saturday (July 7) at Helix High's Benton Hart Stadium. The victory extends a streak by the Surge (10-0) to 28 consecutive quarters without the defense allowing a touchdown. Meanwhile, defensive back ASHLEY MOODY registered an interception for a score – the ballclub's sixth this season – racing 85 yards with her second theft of the ballgame. "On the pick, I just stayed with my man and the quarterback overthrew it and I came up with it," said Moody, a former basketball player at Cal Poly Pomona, who finished with 101 return yards. "It was just hard work on every one's part because we want to be number one." Moody and SHEREE D, BUSH proved to be shutdown corners for the Surge, which held the Bandits to just 148 yards in total offense (23 in the second half). "This team is a combination of several teams, including some former members of the L.A. Amazons and the (San Francisco) Quakes," added Moody. "So it's like an all-star team." The Surge will again host the Dallas Diamonds for the Western Conference crown, the same team they defeated in last season's conference finale. The contest is slated for July 21, starting at 5:30 p.m. from, West Hills High's Wolf Pack Stadium. Bay Area, based out of Contra Costa College, entered the ballgame with a perfect record except for a single setback all season, a 57-0 pasting by the Surge back on May 19. This ballgame pretty much mirrored the first, except for a 36-yard interception runback by linebacker Latrice Johnson to make it 7-all six minutes into the first period before San Diego closed with 35 unanswered points. Following the opening kickoff, the Surge needed just one play to score when CASSEY BRICK broke through the right side and galloped 54 yards for a touchdown just 15 seconds into the contest. Brick finished with 142 rushing yards, while Surge quarterback Me;ossa Gallegos registered three of the team's four TD passes in a balanced attack. After the Bandits got even on the scoreboard, Gallegos re-assumed control on the very next drive, completing all four of her passes, capped by a 5-yard TD strike to CARMEN CRUZ. Moody's "pick six" made it 21-7 at the half, then Gallegos connected with HOLLY PETERSON (8 yards) and KAYCEE CLARK (19) for a 35-7 cushion. Reserve quarterback AISHA NICOLE RUFFO capped the scoring with a 34-yard TD pass to Cruz. Meanwhile, SABRINA WILSON ranked among the Surge tackling leaders, TARRAH PHILPOTT and CILENA TANYA MOSLEY registered sacks, while linebacker MICHELLE STARKS played "bandit" on Bandits running back LaSTAR BROWN, limiting the former Oklahoma City Univ. basketball standout to a mere 19 yards on 22 carries. The San Diego-Dallas winner will meet the National Conference champion at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh on Aug. 4 (ESPN3, ESPN-W and WatchESPN.com).

Nic Long Lakeside's Long gains berth to U.S. Olympic BMX team By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com CHULA VISTA (6-16-12) — The Olympic dream is alive and well for former El Capitan High student NIC LONG. Long, 22, a product of BMX racing at Cactus County Park in Lakeside, was awarded the discretionary pick by USA Cycling and the U.S. Olympic Committee to fill out the American roster of three men and two women. The announcement came Saturday (June 16) night at the BMX Hall of Fame banquet at the U.S. Olympic Training Center, just hours after Long was knocked out in the semifinals of the U.S. Trails held over a replica course to be used at the London Games. David Herman (Wheat Ridge, Colo.) already qualified by leading USA Cycling's power rankings, just recently taking over the lead when season-long leader Connor Fields (Henderson, Nev.) had a disappointing finish at last month's world championships. Fields bounced back to capture Saturday's trials, leaving the committee to select from two obvious choices for the third and final berth in the U.S. men's team: defending Olympic silver medalist Mike Day (Santa Clarita), or Corben Sharrah (Tucson, Ariz.), who captured two of the three motos (heats) leading to the main event. However, the committee went off the board with the selection of Long, who finished fifth among the elite group of eight finalists invited to the trials. However, Long is third in the season points standings, which swayed the committee. For the USA women, Arielle Martin (Spanaway, Wash.) earned the automatic nod by leading the power rankings. Alise Post (St. Cloud, Minn.) joined her on the Olympic team as the discretionary selection. The event is set to be televised on the NBC Sports Network on Sat., June 23, from 6-7:30 p.m. ET.

Cuyamaca hires former Pro Beach star © East County Sports.com RANCHO SAN DIEGO (6-15-12) — Olympic gold medal winner and former professional beach volleyball star KAROLYN KIRBY has been named the head women's volleyball coach at Cuyamaca College. Kirby's assistant will be former Grossmont High standout BARBARA (Rozendal) WNEK, who spent 17 seasons coaching at Point Loma Nazarene. In addition, SCOTT HERRIN has been named the new Associate Dean for Athletics for the Coyotes. He previously served as Director of College Development at MiraCosta College in Oceanside, and as the Associate Athletic Director at Portland State University.

Title IX celebrates 40 years Patsy T. Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act © East County Sports.com OCEANSIDE (6-20-12) — A forum commemorating the 40th anniversary of Title IX will be held Saturday (June 23) at the Ocean Pier Amphitheatre. The event will celebrate the establishment of the federal law that greatly expanded access to sports participation for women across the country. Among the guest speakers will be former UCSD Athletic Director and NCAA Vice President Judy Sweet, former SDSU Athletic Director Mary Alice Hill, two-time Olympian Julie Brown; and Sheri Jennum, head women's basketball coach at CSU San Marcos. The event will be a celebration of women’s achievement, featuring dynamic speakers, live music and dance, elite athletes, sport teams and female leaders in business, education and sports. For further information, click HERE.

AYSO Soccer Registration coming soon  Links to league websites for further details Region 258 (La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Spring Valley), May 19 Region 89 (Fletcher Hills, La Mesa, Casa de Oro, San Carlos, Allied Gardens), May 19 Region 168 (El Cajon), May 22 Region 234 (Lakeside, Blossom Valley, Alpine, Santee, and parts of El Cajon), May 22 Region 511 (Jamul, Rancho San Diego, Spring Valley), May 22 Region 295 (Alpine & the Back Country), June 2 Region 341 (La Mesa, Lakeside, Santee, and parts of El Cajon), June 9 FIND YOUR LEAGUE HERE

Suns to shine this weekend © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (5-18-12) — The East County Suns boys basketball team, comprised of 2012 local graduates and coached by Grossmont High girls basketball coach JEFF BICKFORD, will play several games as part of The Big Showdown this weekend, Saturday and Sunday (May 19-20). The community is invited to attend. The East County Suns will play 805 Basketball Pump & Run from Santa Barbara at 4 p.m. on Saturday (May 19) at Grossmont High School. The Suns will also play So Cal Magic from Compton at 8 p.m. the same day. “We have planned this as a fundraiser for our girls basketball program here at Grossmont,” Bickford said. “We are just a bunch of local kids going against the highest AUU competition – David vs. Goliath.” The Foothillers are one of the many host gyms for the Showdown with games all weekend at Grossmont. EAST COUNTY SUNS ROSTER Jonny Booker, Hoover Tyson Kygar, El Capitan Landon Lazoya, Santana AJ Bratlien, Santana KJ Houston, Monte Vista Martin Panayotov, West Hills Jeron Satterfield, West Hills Andre Johnson, Foothills Christian Thomas Butler, Mt Miguel Bilal Rahim, Grossmont Ryan Bickford, Skyview (Vancouver, WA) /Santana

Another coach vacates SDCC

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (7-10-12) — Another San Diego Christian College coach has resigned from the Hawks athletic program after assistant volleyball coach TODD O'MALLEY accepted an assistant coach position at Cal State San Marcos. O'Malley will become the top assistant to Cougars head coach Andrea Leonard.

O'Malley, who also coached at Palomar College before joining SDCC, possesses more than 15 years of elite coaching experience and 25 years of playing and competitive experience in indoor, grass and beach volleyball.

“We are very excited to have Todd on board. His experience and knowledge will benefit our program tremendously,” said Leonard. “Todd is an elite coach who has been selected to train the USA High Performance teams in So Cal each of the last four years. We are looking forward to another exciting season of volleyball with Todd on the sidelines.”

A native of San Clemente , O’Malley is well-known in coaching circles across the region, having contributed greatly on the high school, junior college, collegiate, and club levels. He comes to San Marcos with an extensive knowledge of building a program from the ground up; O’Malley was owner and founder of the Premier Volleyball Club, and helped with the start-up of 801 VBC (Utah), Formula 1 VBC (Pasadena), Ichiban VBC (Long Beach), South Coast VBC (Costa Mesa), and West Coast VBC (Manhattan Beach).

Meanwhile, CSUSM qualified for the NAIA tournament in its first season as a program in 2011, going 29-8 overall and capturing the Association of Independent Institutions (A.I.I.) conference championship with a four-set victory over La Sierra. Leonard was named A.I.I. Coach of the Year and three players garnered all-conference distinction. Taylor DeGraff became CSUSM volleyball’s first-ever NAIA All-American.

By coincidence, the Cougars and Hawks meet during the season-opening La Sierra Tournament on Wed., Aug. 15.

In 22 seasons of play, San Diego Christian has utilized 13 different head coaches. The revolving door has left the program with a record of 11-145 in Golden State Athletic Conference play since 2004.

Former NYFD Lt. Joe Torrillo (Photo by Rebecca J. Williamson)

The exhibit includes 10-foot-tall replicas of the Twin Towers with names of the fallen inscribed on them; Missing Persons Flyers: Last Seen At The World Trade Center; Victims and Heroes: Photos and Stories Exhibit; and a variety of flags from the countries that lost citizens in the 9/11 tragedy.

Torrillo’s story of bravery and courage is inspiring. Then an active New York City firefighter, Torrillo was planning to head to a press conference to address a new children’s safety initiative he was involved in. However, the day took an unexpected turn that no one, including Torrillo, could have anticipated.

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (6-29-12) — STEVE PERDUE, the 2006 East County baseball coach of the year after leading Valhalla High to its first CIF championship, will be on television this weekend to discus his book.

Perdue will be featured on "San Diego 6 in the Morning Weekend," on the CW's Chl. 6, which starts at 8 a.m. Perdue's segment is slated for 8:40 a.m., discussing his book: Parental Ego and the High School and Youth Athlete.

"I am excited about this, my first live interview on television," said Perdue, who has coached as a variety of schools, most recently turning around the football team at Foothills Christian High. "My book could not be more pertinent to things happening in our society in regards to athletics and parental interference."

"Go to any Little League game, soccer game, etc., and it should become real obvious the problems my book addresses."

The book may be purchased at Amazon.com.

The Heavenly Heisman

Tim Tebow, the first sophomore in college football history to capture the Heisman Trophy and now quarterback for the New York Jets, shakes hands with partitioners following his Father's Day sermon at Qualcomm Stadium. More than 15,000 people attended the program, which was presented by Dr. David Jeremiah of Turning Point ministries and Shadow Mountain Community Church. (Photo by Rebecca J. Williamson)

Tim Tebow in San Diego for Father's Day services at Qualcomm Stadium June 17, 10 a.m.

The event is held In conjunction with the Community Youth Athletic Center (CYAC) and the National Latino Peace Officers Association, and is supported by local law enforcement, first responders and uniformed service members who lace up their boxing gloves in order to raise money for CYAC – a center dedicated to assist San Diego’s at-risk youth. In its ten years, “Battle of the Badges” has raised over $400,000 on behalf of the organization.

This year, William Loren and Jacob Burkard, both five-year members of the Barona Fire Department, are training to join service members from the U.S. Border Patrol, United States Marines, Unites States Navy and officers from the San Diego Police Department, Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility, San Diego Probation Department and the Corrections Corporation of America in the ring for CYAC. Over the next three months the Barona firefighters will be training at The Dungeon in Santee – a personal training facility owned and operated by Barona Tribal member Gerry Rodriguez.

“We are pleased to continue our ongoing partnership with the Community Youth Athletic Center,” said Edwin “Thorpe” Romero, Chairman of the Barona Band of Mission Indians. ”This exciting event gets bigger and better every year and 2012 is a very special year for Barona with two of our veteran firefighters competing to help raise funds for CYAC.”

Chairman Romero added, “We are extremely proud of CYAC for their many innovative programs and educational activities that help keep kids off the streets by giving them a positive, supportive environment.”

"The interest in the ‘Battle of The Badges’ boxing event has certainly grown over the past decade and we’re thankful for the ongoing support the Barona Band of Mission Indians, owners of Barona Resort & Casino has provided so enthusiastically over the years,” said Victor Nunez, a member of the Board of Directors of CYAC. “This event is a primary funding source for CYAC and it’s vital to the success of our various programs.”

CYAC is a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping youth off the streets and in school through boxing and mentoring programs. Based in National City, the CYAC features a boxing gym, as well as computer facilities and tutorial/mentoring center. Serving youth aged 8 to 18, CYAC can accommodate up to 100 kids per day at their facility.

Doors to the event open to the public at 2:30 p.m. on the day. Event tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for children, aged 10 and under. VIP tables that seat up to four guests are also available for $400 and include beverages and commemorative event t-shirts for each person. Tickets can be purchased at the Barona Resort & Casino gift shop or through CYAC by calling (619) 474-2922 or at the door the night of the event.

For more information regarding the “Battle of the Badges” boxing event, please visit: www.cyacyouth.org.

The golf event is hosted by the Foundation for Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges, a nonprofit organization that supports students, faculty and staff at both colleges through scholarships and educational equipment, supplies and programs.

Check-in and the putting tournament will begin at 10 a.m., followed by an 11 a.m. shotgun start. Player spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The entry donation to play is $250 per person, which includes green fees, cart, a fitting for TaylorMade clubs, tee prizes, goodie gift bag, unlimited range balls, putting contest, course games, raffle tickets, BBQ steak sandwich lunch, snacks, beverages, player awards and an after-golf awards reception.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and donations of merchandise and/ professional services for the silent auction and raffle are welcomed. For event information, contact Laurie Corbin at (619) 644-7109, or visit www.foundation.gcccd.edu.

Daluiso, who attended Grossmont College in 1987 and 1988, was a kicker for 10 seasons with the Buffalo Bills (1991), Denver Broncos (1992) and New York Giants (1993-2000). He retired in 2000 as the Giants’ career leader in accuracy (field goals and PATs), and is second leading scorer in team history.

He played in Super Bowl XXVI with the Bills and in Super Bowl XXXV with the Giants. In 2000, Daluiso was awarded the Ed Block Courage Award, presented to the team member displaying exemplary leadership, courage and community service.

Today, Daluiso is a financial planning specialist and financial advisor with the Scott Group at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. He remains an active supporter of Grossmont College and serves on the board of the Foundation for Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges.

In 2003, Daluiso was inducted into the Grossmont College’s Walk of Fame, a permanent, on-campus display of bronze plaques embedded in concrete located in front of the library in the Main Quad area that feature names of distinguished Grossmont College alumni.

Aquatics Center debuts      at West Hills High © East County Sports.com SANTEE (4-4-12) — The long-awaited debut of an aquatics center at West Hills High came true Tuesday (Apr. 3) morning when the Wolf Pack conducted its first-ever, on-campus swim team practice. The pool is located on the space once occupied by the sand volleyball courts, located between the football stadium (in picture's background) and the varsity softball and baseball diamonds. The official opening ceremonies are slated for Tue., April 10 (time TBA). Along with West Hills swim and polo teams, CAST (College Area Swim Team), a USA Swimming club team, will utilize the facility. The grand opening comes on the heels of last week's debut of an Olympic-size swim facility at Granite Hills High. Another pool is slated to open at Steele Canyon later this month.

(WHHS courtesy photo)

The Business, an AYSO U-10 girls soccer team from Lemon Grove/Spring Valley, captured the 2012 AYSO state crown. The team includes (l-r) America Trujillo, Mary Roybal, Marisol Guerrero, Angelina Espinal, Nina Hopkins, Novalee Rittenberg, Amya Jones, Daisy Ramos and Kassandra Ramirez. The head coach is Miguel Espina (not pictured).

© East County Sports.com
CARSON (4-8-12) — Members of the AYSO California state champion Under-10 girls soccer team from Lemon Grove/Spring Valley (Region 258) – better known as The Business – were honored along with other title teams as part of the Parade of Champions at a recent Los Angeles Galaxy game at Home Depot Center.

The Business includes America Trujillo, Mary Roybal, Marisol Guerrero, Angelina Espinal, Nina Hopkins, Novalee Rittenberg, Amya Jones, Daisy Ramos and Kassandra Ramirez. The head coach is Miguel Espinal.

The Business' accomplishments were also honored by the City of Lemon Grove board of supervisors on Tue., Apr. 3, at the Lemon Grove Community Center.

The Business capped its successful season on March 17 by taking the Section 11 crown, which covers California, Washington, Oregon and parts of Nevada, over more than 800 teams, posting an amazing 25-0-0 record. The perfect season including 169 goals scored while allowing a mere 11 goals.

The regular season saw the team outscore local competition, 89-4, then they started their stretch of trophy wins. Included was the El Cajon Stuffed Turkey Tournament over Thanksgiving weekend, when The Business defeated a series of All-Star teams.

From there, they captured the Area 11-S playoffs, a two-weekend event, for their second medal, with a third medal coming at the Section 11 championships in February.

The four section champions then advanced to the March 17 "Final Four" showdown, with The Business posting consecutive shutout victories of 3-0 and 6-0.

IN MEMORIAM JOHN O. ROLLO

John O. Rollo (1949-2012) Rollo passes; Voice of the Griffins, USD © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (3-23-12) — JOHN O. ROLLO, a longtime member of the Grossmont College family, passed away Thursday (Mar. 22). Rollo, who had battled numerous health issues, passed with his family by his side at Grossmont Hospital. Rollo served at the college in several capacities over the years from statistician to public address announcer. Rollo was born in 1949 in Richmond, Va. According to his sisters Jackie Jacob and Nanne Foster, Rollo has been involved in athletics since he was in high school. Following a stint in the U.S. Air Force, Rollo served as a statistician, in volunteer and paid roles at the high school and collegiate levels since the mid 1960s. Rollo's extensive experience includes stints at USD, The Daily Californian and Point Loma and Valhalla high schools and many San Diego Section CIF Championship events. In his early years, Rollo also served as an umpire for nearly two decades. In recent years, Rollo was a fixture at Grossmont College basketball, volleyball, baseball and soccer contests, serving primarily as public address announcer. He also wrote for the college newspaper, then for East County Sports.com. Rollo was known for an exuberant voice that defied both his health and his years over the speakers at Griffins events. Memorial service is pending. Donations may be made in his name to Grossmont College Baseball c/o coach RANDY ABSHIER. NOTE: Supplemental Information supplied by Grossmont College Sports Information Director BRIAN HILEMON.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (3-20-12) — Valhalla High School will host a charity football fund-raiser – the Hero Bowl – on Saturday (Mar. 24) at 5 p.m., pitting the San Diego Enforcers against the Chicago Blaze Fire Department.

The San Diego Enforcers are a national, semipro, full-contact football team made of police and firemen from the county of San Diego. They play football for charity which has included Injured Marines, Susan G. Komen and most recently United Cerebral Palsy.

“What gives this game a little more meaning is the tribute we will be giving to FRANK YANCEY who recently passed away,” said Chris Buchanan of the San Diego Enforcers. “Frank was a coach for Valhalla for the past five years. His roots in East County football span well over 20 years and includes stints at El Cajon, West Hills and Valhalla to name a few.

“In addition to coaching high school football, Frank was a respected member of the San Diego County Sheriff's Department and an Enforcer Coach.”

“In order to increase the interest in the game, pay tribute and get the community involved, we are reaching out to all East County high schools to assist us with ticket sales.”

Tickets ($5 for adults, children 12 and under free) will be available at Valhalla High Stadium on Thursday (Mar. 22) afternoon between 3-5 p.m. or at the gate.

This will be a big event and will include a fly over, honor guard and half time show! For further information, call (619) 279-2219.

2012 Miss El Cajon court	2012 Miss Rancho San Diego court
The court for the 2012 Miss El Cajon pageant are (l-r): Amy Endicott (Miss Teen El Cajon), Stephanie Schauer (Miss El Cajon), and Kaylie York (Miss Junior Teen El Cajon). 50th annual Miss Lakeside pageant results	The court for the 2012 Miss Rancho San Diego pageant are (l-r): Hannah Elliott (Miss Teen Rancho San Diego), Shannon Monaghan (Miss Rancho San Diego), and Elise Butsko (Miss Junior Teen Rancho San Diego). The events were held concurrently at Cuyamaca College Theatre on Saturday (Mar. 3). (Photos by Monica Zech, City of El Cajon)

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-14-12) — The El Cajon City Council unanimously voted the approval of Douglas Williford as its new city manager Tuesday (Feb. 14). The selection followed a nationwide search which found 64 qualified candidates.

Williford currently serves as the deputy executive director of the Southern California Association of Governments. He previously worked for the City of El Cajon's Planning Department, along with similar posts in Santee and Irvine.

"The City Council and I were highly impressed with Doug's leadership skills, pro-development experience, knowledge and insight into the key issues facing the City of El Cajon, and expertise in economic development," said mayor Mark Lews.

Lewis also acknowledged Williford's experience and record of substantial accomplishments in the private sector, plus 30 years of experience in local government.

Williford, who earned both Bachelor's and master's degrees in Urban & Environmental Geography from San Diego State, begins his new duties on March 22nd.

Making the tackle for Helix is Jimmy Pruitt (8). (File photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com)

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (2-3-12) — San Jose State bound wide receiver-defensive back JIMMY PRUITT, a member of the state bowl football champion Helix Highlanders, is offering a unique opportunity by offering a youth football clinic for area residents. FLYER

As part of his senior project at the charter high school, the senior and members of the Scotties coaching staff will teach proper techniques and allow youth football players to sharpen their skills, plus speed drill training.

The 3-hour camp will be held on Sat., Feb. 11, starting at 11 a.m., at the Sweetwater Lane Sports Complex, located at 1312 Sweetwater Lane in Spring Valley. Registration begins at 10 a.m., or you may guarantee an opening by signing-up in advance by EMAIL or by calling (619) 865-1253.

Pruitt was an All-CIF San Diego Section first team selection this past season, a two-time All-East County selection, and was the 2010 East County Sports' Rookie of the Year.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
ALPINE (1-17-12) — Padre Dam Municipal Water District experienced the break of a 24-inch water main Thursday (Jan. 26), causing interruptions in service throughout the area

The break of the 40-year old pipe occured around noon on Arnold Way, between Hatbison Canyon Road and Petra Way.

"This pipe is the main transmission line which serves all of Alpine," said Padre Dam communications director Melissa McChesney. "Because of this, the only water Alpine had access too during the pipe fix was water that was stored in five reservoirs east of where the break occurred."

In order to ensure Alpine customers did not run out of water while the pipe was being fixed, customers were asked to conserve water. Crews will work overnight with repairs slated to be completed by Friday afternoon.

Customers were asked to continue to conserve water until Saturday so that Padre Dam could pump water back into the reservoirs.

In addition, Padre Dam issued a Boil Order Notice for areas west of the break. The BON includes residents on or off of the following streets: Silva Road, Dunbar Lane, Bridon Rd., Chocolate Summit Drive, Hunter Pass, Hunter Lane, Summerhill Point, Chestnut Roan Way and Bridle Run and Arnold Way west of Petra Way were notified of the need to boil/disinfect all tap water for drinking and cooking purposes. This was done as an advisory because we had customers in this area that experienced a loss of water during the initial pipe break.

UPDATE: Padre Dam MWD, in conjunction with the California Department of Public Health, determined through comprehensive testing of the water, the water is now safe to drink. As of Saturday afternoon customers were notified it was no longer necessary to boil tap water or for customers to consume bottled water. Thank you to these customers for their patience and cooperation.

Additional repairs to the pipe and the road will continue into this week but should not have any impact on water service.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-17-12) — El Cajon AYSO youth soccer (California region 168) saw a pair of teams capture Area V East County All-Star Tournaments over the weekend. The triumphs advance both squads to the Section 11 Southern California Championships in Garden Grove, February 18-19.

The league dominated in the Boys Under-10 flight, with both of the league's teams advancing to the championship contest, where the "B" team coached by Maggie Beltz rallied from a 2-0 deficit to claim a 3-2 overtime decision over the "A" team.

In the Boys Under-14 division, the El Cajon AYSO club coached by Caesar Franco and Jose Arteaga claimed its third tournament of the season.

The two-weekend event saw El Cajon sweep five pool-play contests to gain a berth in the final, where they defeated La Mesa, also 3-2 in overtime.

Earlier, the U14 squad earned first-place trophies at the league's own Turkey Tournament over Thanksgiving, then the New Year's Round-Up in Lakeside.

Six other El Cajon AYSO teams also gained berths in the event's semifinals over a variety of age-group divisions.

2011 HOLIDAY BOWL: TEXAS 21, CALIFORNIA 10 STORY
	Top: Cal quarterback Zach Maynard feels heat from Texas pass rushers Emmanuel Acho (18) and Alex Okafor. Left: Texas running back Ryan Roberson celebrates his touchdown, as the Longhorns topped Cal, 21-10. (Photos by Frank Price and Nathan Price, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Left: The U.S. Navy Seals parachute team perform during introductions. Middle: Texas running back Ryan Roberson with the first-quarter touchdown. Right: Cal QB Zach Maynard. (Photos by Frank Price and Nathan Price, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Cal State San Marcos goalie Kaycee Gunion. (CSUSM courtesy photo) Gunion named CSUSM's first-ever first-team All-America © East County Sports.com SAN MARCOS (12-8-11) — Former Helix High standout KAYCEE GUNION became the first Cal State San Marcos women's soccer player to earn first-team All-America recognition by the NAIA. Gunion, a senior, finished her final collegiate season with a stellar 0.32 goals against average, ranking second in the nation. She allowed just 6 goals over the team’s 20 games, playing a major role in posting the best record (15-4-1) in Cougars history. Gunion leaves CSUSM as one of the most decorated athletes in the athletic program’s history. The goalie was recognized by the NAIA in all four of her seasons, including a Honorable Mention All-America selection as a freshman in 2008, followed by Second Team All-America selections in 2009 and 2010. Gunion was also named A.I.I. Conference Player of the Year in both 2008 and 2011, and was a four-time All-Conference selection. Gunion was not the only Cougar soccer player to receive a national post-season honor this week. The team’s dynamic forward duo of senior Lauren Johnson (8 goals, 2 assists) and junior Shelby Bush (10 goals, 3 assists) gained Honorable Mention All-America citations. Jan. 3 Update — Gunion also was named an NAIA national scholar-athlete award winner by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, gaining a third-team berth. She will be recognized at the annual All-America Luncheon held in conjunction with the 2012 NSCAA Convention in Kansas City.

Cougars rock America © East County Sports.com ORLANDO, Fla. (12-12-11) — The Steele Canyon Youth Football 8th-grade (former Midget Division) football team captured the American Youth Football national championship over the weekend. After posting a perfect 12-0 record and winning the San Diego County championship over Menifee (south Riverside County) Red, 49-6, the Cougars traveled to central Florida along with titlists from seven other regions.for a single-elimination tournament. Steele Canyon posted victories over the Oviedo (Fla.) Raiders, 34-6, and the Warrenville (Ohio) Warriors, 43-0, to reach the finale. then the Cougars bounced the top-seeded and defending national champion Mint Hill (Charlotte, N.C.) Chargers, 34-19. Local music instrument manufacturer honored © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (12-13-11) — Taylor Guitars, a locally-based business founded in 1974, will be named State Senate District 36 Business of the Year later today (Tue., Dec, 13). The honor will be presented by Senator Joel Anderson at the company's Gillespie Field area factory at 10 a.m. The company, founded in building with a leaky roof, now operates out of a modern, 25,000-square foot facility, employs hundreds of constituents who make a world-class guitar. Taylor Guitar has also given back to their community through their support of local high school wood shop programs that are building the critical career development skills of our youth. "Taylor Guitars is an example of the American dream come true," Sen. Anderson said. The Senator will present a framed resolution from the State Senate to Taylor Guitars president Bob Taylor, CFO Barbara Wright, and CEO Kurt Listug.

ECVHS's Chelsea Ball (right in white) was named Player of the Year in the Grossmont Valley League by the coaches in girls volleyball this past season. (File photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com)

Milestone victory for former Braves mentor Courtesy, North County Times ESCONDIDO (11-27-11) — Former El Cajon Valley High volleyball coach LORI BECKER recently captured her 500th career victory. She is now in her 24th season guiding the Escondido High program, yet once led the Braves to a 15-9 single-season mark, plus 3 seasons at San Pasqual in the 1980s.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (11-23-11) — CHELSEA BALL, an all-league standout in three sports for El Cajon Valley High, became the first member of the Braves in more than 20 years to be named the league's top player in girls volleyball. Ball was recently voted the Grossmont Valley League player of the year by circuit coaches at their season-ending meeting.

Ball, a senior middle-blocker, led ECVHS in both spiking and blocking, propelling the Braves to a runner-up finish in GVL action.

"I began playing better when I started working on my jumping and reaching higher," said Ball, who is also a member of the Starlings Volleyball Club program.

Anchoring the middle, Ball twice powered the Braves past El Capitan to earn second-place finish behind league champion Santana (coached by former Braves standout KAREN ADAMS).

"The first match was close, then we swept El Cap the second time we played them," she added. "That was an important win for our team. We demonstrated that we could compete and continue to improve."

Ball is now off to a fast start in basketball. On Tuesday (Nov. 22), the center registered game-highs of 32 points and 20 rebounds in a scrimmage.

The effort was a continuation from a strong junior season, when Ball became the first ECVHS basketball player to lead the East County in any major statistical category in more than a decade after grabbing 13.7 rebounds per contest.

"Sure, we'd like to think we could beat Mount Miguel," noted Ball of the state-ranked Matadors basketball team. "But a second-place in league would be a great accomplishment for our team, just like in volleyball."

Former Braves softball coach DOUG HARTUNG, who recently accepted the same position at Grossmont College, is pleased by Ball's development.

"Chelsea's not only a hard worker, she helps everyone else on the team with her leadership on and off the field," said Hartung.

In the spring, Ball is a shortstop and center fielder for ECVHS softball. She carries a 3.30 grade-point average and hopes to receive a scholarship offer for college, where she would major in psychology.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (11-10-11) — Following a perfect 12-game run to another Sunset League girls volleyball championship, Foothills Christian High opened the CIF San Diego Section Division V playoffs Wednesday (Nov. 9) by posting a 3-game sweep over visiting Calvary Christian of Vista.

The 3rd-seeded Knights skated past the Lions, 25-12, 25-18, 25-23, at Granite Hills High. They advance to Saturday's (Nov. 12) 7 p.m. quarterfinals at home against Escondido Adventist (16-6), which posted its own blanking of Borrego Springs, 25-15, 25-11, 25-17.

Foothills Christian (15-14) received a match-high 12 kills by senior outside hitter KARRIS ESSELSTROM, while junior opposite JEANNIE LAMBERT added 8 kills and 8 service winners to gain an early jump on Calvary.

"We were good enough to win, but we can be better," said Esselstrom, who has her college choices down to Biola or Simpson. " Calvary had a good travel crowd which bothered our serve-receive."

However, the Knights already mounted a 2-0 lead, then led wire-to-wire in the final set, although Calvary did get to within a point before Foothills finished them off.

"Our mental game is getting stronger – we now know we can do it," added REGAN FALDUTI, a senior middle, who twice salvaged plays with assists on rare chances when setter MIKAILA SANTOS couldn't get to the ball. Santos still finished with 21 assists.

Meanwhile, Foothills seeks a victory based on two fronts come Saturday. The Knights, the 2nd-seeds last season, were upset in the 2010 quarterfinals. Also, they are meeting an Escondido Adventist ballclub which defeated them in their last meeting.

"All four games were super close," recalled senior LARA PLUM, who is headed for Colorado Christian College. "So if we can beat them, we get a shot at (No. 2 seed) Pacific Ridge."

Falduti and OLIVIA TOMLIN each registered solo stuff blocks for Foothills Christian, while libero GABY MERLO recorded three service winners.

Alpine Fire Chief Bill Paskle (left) accepts an award for the district's 50th year compiling weather observations from Roger Pierce, Meteorologist-In-Charge of the San Diego National Weather Service. (Photo by Mary Tedesco)

Discover the Alpine Fire Protection District website.

AFPD is the official weather reporting station for the community of Alpine. Originally, weather measurements were taken at the fire station on Alpine Blvd. and they have continued at the current fire station on Tavern Road.

“Weather and fire fighting go hand in hand," said AFPD Chief Bill F. Paskle. "Knowing the current and expected weather conditions aids firefighters in attacking and extinguishing wild fires. We are honored to play a small part in recording the weather.”

Recently, AFPD installed a Davis Weather Station tracking system at the fire station. Data from the new equipment is included on the San Diego NWS website on the San Diego Mesonet page.

Founded in 1957, AFPD covers more than 27 square miles for a population of 15,000 residents.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (10-26-11) — DAN BARNES, a former football and girls basketball coach at Granite Hills High School, has been named principal at Grossmont High School.

Barnes replaces Theresa Kemper, who ends a 9-year stint after being elevated to Grossmont Union High School District assistant superintendent for educational services following the retirement of Mike Lewis.

Barnes, who has worked in the district in several capacities for more than two decades, had served as one of Kemper's assistant principals for the past eight years.

Barnes is a graduate of San Diego State who earned his teaching credential from Christian Heritage College (now San Diego Christian College). He later earned a master’s degree and educational administrative credential from National University

He started as a campus supervisor, then taught geography and U.S. history, along with his coaching duties before eventually becoming a dean at Granite Hills.

Under Kemper, Grossmont High was named a California Distinguished School and attained status as a California Exemplary Career Technical Education School.

© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (11-18-11) — El Capitan High School will induct five new members to its Athletic Hall of Fame on Thursday (Oct. 20) at the 14th celebratory dinner at the Lakeside Rodeo Association Hall at 6 p.m.

This year’s crew of inductees includes basketball standout STEPHANIE (KINDREICH) CASEY, CARRIE (VICKERY) SVENDSEN, ERIC ROCKHOLD, and brothers JASON PHILLIPS and KYLE PHILLIPS.

Doors open at 6 pm and dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. Induction ceremony starts at approximately 7:30 p.m.

© East County Sports.com
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (9-28-11) — National Pro Fastpitch, which has featured local players such as CARRI LETO-MARTIN and SAVANNAH BROWN of Valhalla High School and SARAH HERSHMAN of San Diego State over the past decade, announced it will return to San Diego this fall.

NPF will again hold its Back to School Tour, with San Diego State hosting the 16th of 17 stops on Fri., Nov. 4, when the Aztecs meet a ballclub composed with many of pro softball's rising stars.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to play against professional softball players right here on our own campus," said Aztecs coach KATHY VAN WYK. "It’s a great chance to test ourselves against the best while helping the NPF promote the league.”

It's the second straight season for San Diego State to host a Tour contest.

“We are honored that the NPF has again chosen San Diego and our program as one of the tour stops," added the Aztec coach. "The draw of professional athletes helps us promote our program as well.”

Participating NPG players include Olympic medalists Andrea Duran, Kelly Kretschman, Caitlin Lowe; former Canadian Olympic Team member Caitlin Lever; former Canadian Olympic Team members and NCAA Champions Danielle Lawrie and Jenn Salling; 2010 NPF Pitcher of the Year, Lisa Norris; 2011 All NPF Team Members Ashley Charters, Bianca Mejia, Megan Wiggins, Brittany McKinney, and Sam Marder; and NPF Rookie of the Year, Alisa Goler.

Along with softball, other professional women's team sports leagues in North America include WPS soccer and WNBA basketball, while AVP beach volleyball may soon be returning.

“As we near the 40th anniversary of Title IX, the fact that we have a professional league for women’s fastpitch players is yet another testament to its impact," Van Wyk noted. "Opportunities for girls and women continue to grow and by coming out to this game and helping us support the league, people can help ensure these opportunities continue.”

The Tour begins with a game against the University of Memphis on Sept. 30, concluding on Sat., Nov. 5, at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut. Complete Tour SCHEDULE.

Tickets will become available soon. Visit the SDSU women's softball website for further information.

Historic note – Back in the 1970s, the original women's pro softball league played games at San Diego State and Oceanside High School with a local franchise, the San Diego Sandpipers.

In the first year, a minimum of 60 games will be produced and in subsequent years, a minimum of 80 games will be produced for the life of the 15-year contract.

The CIF has grown to become one of the largest youth sports organizations in the nation and has a proud heritage of providing equitable athletic competition for more than 1,500 high schools in California. Through this new partnership, Time Warner Cable brings additional elements to the overall high school athletic experience benefiting more than 757,000 student athletes involved in CIF competitions.

“We are excited for this opportunity to work with Time Warner Cable,” said CIF Executive Director Marie M. Ishida. “They have made a commitment to air championship sporting events that include teams throughout the State. This unprecedented partnership will bring exposure to CIF schools and athletes like never before.”

Time Warner Cable’s CIF sports programming will feature a variety of sports, including coverage of boys and girls sports, as well as profile pieces on student-athletes and coaches.

“High school sports and the CIF have long been cornerstones in providing countless opportunities to our youth, developing future leaders and creating stronger communities both on and off the field,” said Barry Rosenblum, Time Warner Cable’s Senior Vice President, News and Local Programming. “Our agreement with CIF will provide high school sports fans in-depth opportunities to connect with teams, players, coaches, parents and fans across the State on multiple distribution platforms. We are thrilled to have the privilege of covering our hometown heroes.”

A leader at providing local production and sports programming to millions of subscribers across the country, Time Warner Cable currently manages 34 local channels, featuring news, weather, traffic and many featuring local sports programming.

In addition to full length High School game coverage, Time Warner Cable’s regional News and Local Programming Channel SoCal 101 will feature weekly high school sports programming. Varsity Round-Up, a roundtable analysis and preview of the top games of the week, airs on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM, and Prep Sports Night Live, a weekly interactive call-in show that features up-to date scores, highlights, interviews and more, airs Fridays from 10:30 PM until midnight. Viewers interested in learning more about these programs and SoCal 101 can visit www.twcsocal101.com.

About Time Warner Cable
Time Warner Cable Inc. (NYSE: TWC) is among the largest providers of video, high-speed data and voice services in the United States, connecting more than 14 million customers to entertainment, information and each other. Time Warner Cable Business Class offers data, video, and voice services to businesses of all sizes, cell tower backhaul services to wireless carriers and, through its NaviSite subsidiary, enterprise-class hosting, managed application, messaging and cloud services. Time Warner Cable Media, the advertising arm of Time Warner Cable, offers national, regional and local companies innovative advertising solutions. More information about the services of Time Warner Cable is available at www.timewarnercable.com, www.twcbc.com, www.navisite.com, and www.twcmedia.com.

About CIF
The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) was created in 1914 and is the governing body for high school sports in the state of California. CIF is uniquely positioned to foster student growth in values and ethics. CIF’s ideal of “Pursuing Victory with Honor,” provides the opportunity to influence the actions of the athletic community. CIF strives to promote equity, quality, character and academic development. CIF is a nonprofit federation and the state office, located in Sacramento, CA, represents the interests of its member Sections. The 10 Sections represent geographic regions within the state: Central, Central Coast, Los Angeles City, North Coast, Northern, Oakland, Sac-Joaquin, San Diego, San Francisco and Southern. CIF represents more than 1,500 public and private member schools and more than 757,000 student-athletes. CIF conducts regional and state championships in cross country, football, volleyball, tennis, wrestling, basketball, soccer, track & field and golf. CIF Sections conduct championships in more than 22 sports.

San Diego Chargers defensive tackle Antonio Garay (bottom) is styled by Sergio "El Capitan" Millan, who designs and creates Garay's famous hair. (Courtesy photo, Fresh Up Barber Shop)

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (8-19-11) — When San Diego Chargers defensive tackle ANTONIO GARAY, known throughout the National Football League for his wild and unusual haircuts, feels like changing things up, there is only one person to see.

Welcome to the unique world of haircutting by SERGIO MILLAN, better known to his football-playing clientele as "El Capitan" for being more than a person who cuts hair for a living. Millan's persona makes him considered a pure virtuoso in his artistry to create singular designs, becoming the barber to the Bolts.

So when Garay reaches the sidelines on the Chargers bench and removes his helmet, you will see anything but the commonplace with his hairstyle.

"With someone like Antonio, it can take two hours to create," noted Millan, a 26-year-old resident of Lemon Grove. "After cutting his hair, you need to bleach it, inscribe the design, then add color -- it can be quite an undertaking."

Sergio "El Capitan" Millan (Courtesy, Fresh Up Barber Shop)

Millan began cutting hair at the age of 13 for family, friends and neighbors.

"I learned to cut hair in backyards, garages and family barbecues," he added. "Now it's a way to express myself -- it's not just a haircut, it really has become an art form."

Most of Millan's work is completed at Fresh Up barber shop, located at Westfield's Parkway Plaza. It opened last September to strong reviews because of the types of people he hires to cut hair.

"Perhaps one out of every 20 people who apply join our team." he added. "I'm very particular because everyone should look their best, whether it's a cut like Antonio gets or a regular haircut."

"And each of them gets a nickname, like "Country" or "Cash" -- sort of like soccer players with one name."

Students from Grossmont High School celebrate after capturing the $25,000 grand prize in front of thousands of spectators at U.S. Open of Surfing in the Hurley Walk the Walk dance competition. (Courtesy, usopenofsurfing.com) Grossmont dancers know 'The Walk' Capture $25K prize at U.S. Open of Surfing © East County Sports.com HUNTINGTON BEACH (8-4-11) — Students from Grossmont High School earned a check for $25,000 following an award-winning dance performance Thursday (Aug. 4) at the Nike U.S. Open of Surfing Championships at Surf City, USA. VIDEO Performing a routine entitled "Power of One," an online poll saw Grossmont's 20-member student troupe tally more than 50,000 votes to edge Peterborough High of Toronto, Ont., by a mere 389 votes to capture the Hurley "Walk the Walk" fashion show contest, held at the Huntington Beach Pier. The prize money will go to the school's Associated Student Body general fund. FACEBOOK Presenting the award to Grossmont was actor BooBoo Stewart, 17, who was once the 2002 and 2003 Junior Martial Arts world champion. Stewart appeared in the third installment of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse. By advancing to the finals, Grossmont was assured at least a $5,000 prize, but then beat out 19 others dance teams for the trophy. Jeremy Hersch, the Grossmont ASB faculty adviser, said the prize money would go toward ASB activities or projects, which will be decided by students. He noted some of the funds will serve as grants for performing arts students. The school started with 60 participants, which whittled down to the final 20 following weeks of rehearsals held three times per week all summer.

2010 Grossmont College camp participants

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (7-3-11) — Grossmont College men’s basketball is hosting its annual Youth Basketball Camp for boys and girls entering the 3rd through the 8th grades. Camp will run from 8 a.m. to noon from August 8-11, at the college gymnasium (next to Parking Lot No. 3).

Cost for the camp is $75 and space is limited – sign up by July 10th.

Contact coach Doug Weber by EMAIL or by calling (619) 644-7878 for further information. Click for FLYER with details and to order a t-shirt.