- East Bay Prep Corner
East Bay football poll — 10/2
By Stephanie Hammon
Tuesday, October 2nd, 2012 at 5:16 pm in East Bay Football.
| Team | Record | Points | Last week |
| 1. De La Salle (5) | 5-0 | 75 | 1 |
| 2. California | 5-0 | 67 | 4 |
| 3. Concord | 5-0 | 65 | 3 |
| 4. James Logan | 5-1 | 63 | 2 |
| 5. El Cerrito | 6-0 | 55 | t5 |
| 6. Monte Vista | 4-1 | 49 | 7 |
| 7. Foothill | 3-2 | 41 | t5 |
| 8. Freedom | 4-2 | 40 | 8 |
| 9. Campolindo | 5-1 | 37 | 9 |
| 10. Pittsburg | 4-2 | 32 | 10 |
| 11. Bishop O’Dowd | 4-1 | 23 | 12 |
| 12. Deer Valley | 4-1 | 21 | 14 |
| 13. Antioch | 5-0 | 17 | 13 |
| 14. Acalanes | 5-1 | 8 | 15 |
| 15. Clayton Valley | 4-1 | 5 | NR |
Also receiving votes: Amador Valley (2-3, 1 point), Newark Memorial (4-1, 1). The East Bay Football Poll is voted on by the prep sports staff of Bay Area News Group-East Bay.
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October 2nd, 2012 at 5:34 pm
I can understand the logan drop putting cal ahead. but concord?? ehhhh.
October 2nd, 2012 at 6:05 pm
I agree. I don’t think a team should drop for not playing. I had Cal at #3 . With that said they totally dominated a #5 team in foothill in all aspects of the game. The game was not as close as the score indicated. Cal plays like they did last Friday against MV and it they will win.
October 2nd, 2012 at 6:20 pm
Deer Valley should be ahead of. O’dowd
October 2nd, 2012 at 6:21 pm
Deer Valley should be ahead of O’Dowd
October 2nd, 2012 at 6:48 pm
Fist of all, Concord didn’t drop in the rankings. They are in the same place that they were last week, #3. Should they have moved into the #2 spot instead of Cal? That’s almost funny.
Let’s be real. Concord may have a good team this year, but they are probably ranked way higher than they should be. They are a DII team that has yet to play a tough opponent this season. Every team that they have played on their schedule so far, has a losing record. Just sayin’.
October 2nd, 2012 at 6:53 pm
MY WACC 12 WEEK PROJECTIONS
WACC 12 FOOTHILL
SAN LEANDRO VS CASTRO VALLEY
CV WINS 42-21
BISHOP O’DOWD VS ENCINAL
BOD WINS 24-14
HAYWARD VS BERELEY
HAYWARD WINS 21-10
WACC 12 SHORELINE
PIEDMONT VS SAN LORENZO
PIEDMONT WINS 42-14
ALAMEDA VS TENNYSON
TENNYSON WINS 14-7
MT. EDEN VS ARROYO
ARROYO WINS 31-3
October 2nd, 2012 at 8:11 pm
Looks like EC is having the season of the century for them.
Will it be one and done or do they have any depth for next season?
October 2nd, 2012 at 8:51 pm
rankings 6-10 you can make a case for any of these teams to be above each other… should Foothill be that high the lost to Freedom, and Cal but ahead of Freedom.. But freedom lost to Amador Valley.. Pitts only loses are to Cal and MV and barely loss to #2 Cal…. very glad to see the EBAL and BVAL playing each other a lot more in preseason the SEC/EBAL will show it’s true colors come playoff times the BVAL is coming on strong.. Pitt, Freedom and Deer Valley can run with any of the EBAL top teams.. Just one mans perspective..
October 2nd, 2012 at 10:06 pm
There’s a lot of parity among the top schools in both leagues this year between the EBAL and MVAL. Pitt is 0-2 against the EBAL, Freedom is 1-1, and Deer Valley hasn’t played any EBAL teams but had an impressive preseason with a close game against Folsom and a solid win over Vacaville. Should make D1 playoffs pretty interesting this year in my opinion from the first game.
October 2nd, 2012 at 10:10 pm
To Be Real miramonte or encinal or dublin should be at that 16th spot
October 2nd, 2012 at 10:11 pm
i meant they should be at that 15th spot
October 2nd, 2012 at 11:03 pm
Is it my imagination or is the outcome so obvious (even more than normal) that it makes the board so uninteresting. No Kline, no Nottingham, no Mannion, no Ricky Galvin, no Ricky Lloyd, no storyline with no chance to upset the juggernaut of DLS. Now that the Rancho Margarita QB is out for the season, not even an interesting bowl game to look forward to. On to 2013!
October 2nd, 2012 at 11:25 pm
The rankings are not bad except I just dont see Foothill maintaining that spot. Apparently other rankings systems favored Deer Valleys upset of Vacaville to the extent that they were put ahead of Logan, Campo, bishop, freedom, Pittsburg and Foothill is nowhere to be found. So no love from the east bay prep news group, either way I knew these weeks rankings would be tough for any group to quantify. I agree with renegades this year playoffs should be a lot of fun with many good contenders out there.
October 3rd, 2012 at 7:52 am
@EBALFAN..Pity such negativity. Are you whats called a DLS Hater? Take a deep look into your soul…each school has a story but you need to look deeper to find it. True stories are never on the surface they are deep within.
October 3rd, 2012 at 7:55 am
I think this years story will be Sparty’s QB Chris Williams and chapter two will be in 2013. Should be a good read.
October 3rd, 2012 at 8:02 am
A story in the making, take a long look at CV-C..If they improve the mental toughness…Concord HS will be faced with a true challenge.
October 3rd, 2012 at 11:18 am
1 DLS- Cris Williams!
2 Cal- I want to see them and Logan duke it out
3 Logan- I want to see them and Cal duke it out
4 Concord- Hamilton gets it done with a hard nose attitude
5 EC- Loaded with talent! Its scary that most of the best players are only juniors!
6 MV- ?
7 Foothill- Sweeney one of the top 10 coaches in the bay. Gets it done with minimal talent
8 Pitt- Up and down as usual. We’ll see.
9 Freedom- Over rated. Darnell makes the team without him very average
10 Deer Valley- Vacaville win was impressive
11 BOD- Not very impressed but are still tough match for teams
12 Campo- Will lose 2 more games. But I love Stephens
13 Antioch- Not sold yet but solid start
14 Clayton Valley- Murphy has those boys playing tough
15 Acalanes- If they finish off Campo they would be higher
October 3rd, 2012 at 1:12 pm
@ mandown
a cal/logan would be a nice one. i agree with you that freedom is overrated. daniels makes the team. heritage who is 0-6 gave freedom a scare last friday. if it wasn’t for an interception in the last play, the game would’ve went to overtime. i believe that deer valley takes the bval crown this year, although i see pitt getting in the mix. antioch has a nice record, but they have a tough test this coming friday against deer valley.
October 3rd, 2012 at 2:46 pm
I updated my last post and I should have waited to paste this until this week’s new poll was out.
The EBAL is clearing up already now at least at the top.
As for the new poll, I have questions about Freedom being too low, Pittsburg too high, Foothill too high, Deer Valley way too low, Campolindo too high, and Antioch too low. I would rate Freedom, Antioch and Deer Valley and Bishop O’Dowd, all above Pitt, Campo and Foothill.
1. Cal: The Grizzlies thrashed Foothill on the road in a way nobody expected to be so nasty. Apparently the game was never in doubt. Cal demonstrated a high powered offense and turned off the juice at the end of the 3rd and a shut down defense that stifled the Falcons offense on the ground and in the air. Cal now gets ready to host Monte Vista in a battle that should be decided by 14 points in favor of the Grizzlies. The Grizzlies will not be severely tested until they play De La Salle. Coach Bellici will win coach of the year in the league. This team is very good and they can beat DLS this year if they catch some breaks because DLS is an average passing team this year and this is the year that Cal could go to the state bowl game for Open or D-1.
2. Monte Vista: The Mustangs now appear to be the second best team in the League after Amador dropped to San Ramon Valley, and the Mustang’s stumbling loss to Foothill hurts them dearly. Even if they lose to Cal Friday night they can still take 2nd place if they get help along the way which is possible. The Mustangs are a much better defensive team than in the past and getting better, and their passing game is solid as usual, with an average to good running game. Coach Bergman is looking at 7 wins for sure and maybe 8 wins if they beat Cal. With the right playoff seeding this MV team could reach the finals vs. the Spartans but their season will end there if they do meet a second time.
3. Amador: The Dons blew it and now they will finish 6-4 at best. This team should have been 7-3, but the AVHS collapse happened to early this year. Moreno was his efficient self as normal but the Dons could not capitalize on mistakes by SRV. Dons should have been better than a 3rd place team this year and they need some playmakers to rise up other than Moreno. Amador needs to shock somebody and put 40 points on the board, but who would that be against, Livermore or Granada or Foothill? Amador should be a powerhouse almost every year like Cal is now, so what is the answer? More weights or running or what is the Dons yearly issue?
4. San Ramon Valley: Defeating Amador in Pleasanton made a statement that SRV is alive. The Wolves defense did a good job against the Dons and they should beat Granada by 21. This time is not great but after defeating Amador they will not be counted out. Big battles loom against Foothill, DLS, Cal and MV, and if they can win two of those four they will finish .500 and make the playoffs. QB Birse had his best game of the year and if he improves the Wolves will be a playoff team. Coach Kessler finally realized that he can make major changes this season and retool the offense, which he did, and the best way to help Birse at QB is to run the ball a lot and it worked perfectly. Questions still loom about the Wolves but at least they but a bullet into one of them. However, they will finish 5-5 or 6-4 due to three preseason losses. QB Kline from last year was too tough of an act to follow up, and he had a good defense too.
5. Foothill: If this is the most talented Foothill team Coach Sweeney has had, as he has said, the Falcons are in big trouble and major adjustments and some changes need to happen from Sweeney’s good book. The offense is weak in the passing game and pretty much the same for the ground attack but it shows signs of life. They lack identity on offense and are giving away too much yardage on the ground. The Falcons will get clobbered against DLS this week. The talented Falcons might be willing to settle for 5-5 or 6-4, but the most gifted team to ever strap it up for Sweeney at Foothill should have won at least 8 games, and probably 9. Now it seems like 7-3 is wishful thinking. If Foothill keeps doing the same thing the results will be bad to average, and Sweeney is too good of a coach to sit around not retool the engine when it’s pinging on all parts this badly.
6. Livermore: If they upset Amador Friday night which is possible, then Coach Haubner’s Cowboys will end the year 5-5 and in the playoffs after beating Granada. They need to throw the ball a lot more on first down and mix things up a bit. Being able to run the ball is needed but they have to throw to win and it cost them against SRV. EBAL playoff teams are usually complete teams in all three phases of the game but the Cowboys inability to throw well is killing them. Their defense is hardnosed but they need to give up fewer big plays in league games. Livermore needs to throw the ball to win more games or they will dwell in the cellar annually.
7. Granada: Coach Silva had them playing inspired football against DLS and it was an entertaining game for the first one-third. After connecting on a beautiful slant route for a touchdown vs. the Spartans, Granada should have tried that route several more times but they did not do it enough. Their defense has respectable numbers but now we will see how good the defense really is during the next five games. They need to beat Livermore and Foothill or Amador to make the playoffs which is possible, and they are true believers in themselves.
Comments?
October 3rd, 2012 at 3:24 pm
The NCS D3 playoffs are going to be loaded once again this year. Just like last year, the top 7 teams are very good, only 4 losses between them all. Clearly, the winner will be invited to the regional bowl game. Here are the teams and, IMO, their seeding if the season ended today and where they were seeded last year:
MC 1 1(2011) Only loss was to Vacaville
EC 2 8 A ridiculously loaded team, not DLS!
CN 3 2 Could easily flip with EC
Analy 4 10 Still undefeated
Campo 5 3 close loss to EC looks real good now
BOD 6 6 If Miroglio/King healthy, watchout!
Acal 7 – May be 2nd best team in DFAL
October 3rd, 2012 at 5:13 pm
Clayton Valley Charter take on YVHS and College Park before the Concord game. the secondary and rush coverage could be suspect and will need to be tight by the Concord game. Seems like the Eagles may have a slight edge in overall physical conditioning. But will also need to show mental stamina if threatened at all. If they move through YV and CP without any big glitches they stand a good chance to give a knock-out punch to the Minutemen.
So long as DLS has some key players out Cal stand a chance to possibly hold Sparty in the 30 point ragne but will still go down. If they meet in NCS when Sparty should be 100% just look out for the freight train. As for this Friday Foothill may get 7 in 4th qtr and that will be about it. Sparty is stepping up as a team and that is hard to overcome.
October 4th, 2012 at 9:22 am
Let’s be careful with handing Cal the EBAL title so early they need to prove they can bring a tough D performance 2 weeks in a row against a much better MV team Friday night. The MV running back reminds me of Sullas and he always spelled trouble for Cal…
October 4th, 2012 at 9:51 am
I agree with Monarch. Cal still has plenty to work to do before looking forward to game 10 or the playoffs. The big win over Foothill was huge, and Cal dominated in every phase of the game. But they now face not only MV tomorrow but then SRV next week, a daunting 3-game stretch for any team. Playing the top 3 teams everyone picked to be atop the DLS-less EBAL this year back to back to back.
October 4th, 2012 at 9:59 am
The EBAL is 5-1 this season vs. the BVAL.
Pitt lost to both Cal and MV,
Freedom beat Foothill and lost to AV,
Heritage lost to Granada,
and Liberty lost to Livermore.
October 4th, 2012 at 10:50 am
Monte Vista will need to tighten up the defense and show some extra effort on the O line to take CAL. I am going to assume….oh no, you understand what that means??? That MV has taken care of business this week and is ready to pull an upset away at Cal.
De La Salle should hammer out 35+ on Foothill’s 6. I see Sparty making a mid-way through season statement.
October 4th, 2012 at 11:07 am
here’s the deal. Cal is a very good team and will do well this year as always.
DeLa played Bellarmine, Mullen and St. Mary’s(Stock)and beat them all. No way Cal would beat those teams.
If Cal wants to step it up suggest next several yrs play socal, wcal and sjs teams.
October 4th, 2012 at 11:23 am
Not sure what DLS’ schedule has to do with Cal, or their game against MV this week.
October 4th, 2012 at 11:54 am
I am not sure that Cal can guarantee the consistency of teams year in and year out that De La Salle can, so would be much harder for them to play top teams in the early season.
October 4th, 2012 at 12:30 pm
One thing that helps De La Salle is the combined coaching staff is very good at assessing all of the collective talent and the potential talent from frosh through seniors. That is one aspect that makes the Spartan dangerous and ads to the depth of bench. And one more thing for sure is the collective effort of all the players that makes a difference at Winton which is instilled from the get-go and matures with each season played.
October 4th, 2012 at 12:30 pm
Painful listing to DLS NOISE … everyone knows they are at a different level than EBAL Teams and Cal will not upset them.
The Cal High win over Foothill was impressive and should give them confidence to do the same thing to Monte Vista this week.
SRV will also struggle with the Cal ball control offense.
Amador Valley is mediocre a will get blown out by MV, Cal, and Foothill. Not enough talent on O or D.
Should be an exciting frosh football game tonight at Foothill. Foothill Frosh (5-0) vs. DLS Frosh (5-0).
October 4th, 2012 at 12:32 pm
Outsider, the thing is Cal has had such dominant teams at the lower levels that I’m not sure the consistency argument holds much water at this point. They clearly are getting solid football players coming into the school as freshman and given Coach B’s track record at this point they are continuing to develop through all four years. If he had a few frosh/JV teams go 4-6 or 3-7 then maybe. But he hasn’t since he took over the program. It’s time to step it up with the preseason scheduling.
BTW how are Cal’s JV/Frosh teams doing right now?
October 4th, 2012 at 12:37 pm
@#24 Prep Fan — Let’s cut the crap nobody cares about Granada, Livermore,etc the EBAL is about (DLS) Cal, MV, Foothill or SRV when they are not down.. Just like nobody cares about Heritage, Liberty, Antioch with its 5-0 sched against patsy’s – The BVAL is about Freedom, Pitt and DV.
Of those teams listed it’s true the EBAL is 5-1 vs BVAL can’t take that from EBAL .. but dig deeper except for CAL who keeps finding a way to get it done all the other teams have huge blemishes – Pitt didnt show up vs MV… MV looses to Foothill .. Foothill get’s smashed by Freedom .. Freedom chokes vs Amador .. etc.. etc..
Stats don’t lie and the EBAL is 5-1 vs. BVAL but we both know all 6 of these teams the top 3 in each league can knock each other off on any given day.. It will be one of these 6 throw in Logan playing DLS come DEC..
October 4th, 2012 at 12:38 pm
Cal should schedule their former coach’s team Bishop Gorman.
October 4th, 2012 at 12:41 pm
Gridlock … your post makes no sense.
Quit wasting everybody time with your ridiculous assessment of the EBAL based on your Frosh experience at Livermore.
Order of strength right now is:
1. Cal High
2. SRV
3. Foothill
4. MV
5. Amador
6. Livermore
7. Granada
October 4th, 2012 at 12:48 pm
No one is suggesting that Cal will upset DLS (although that would be nice) or that Cal has the same ability or resources to compete on a national stage and we all know the differences and the reasons why… De La is a great team with great traditions, my point was that Cal while of to a good start, still has a lot to prove and Prep Fan has it right about the next 3 games being crucial
October 4th, 2012 at 12:54 pm
Get real dude..
Order of strength
De La Salle by factor of 10
CAL
SR
MV
AM
Liv
Gra
October 4th, 2012 at 1:20 pm
Stewie … you might want to read the paper … DLS is no longer in contention for the EBAL Title! They are at a completely different classification of high school football.
Oh, and your list above you left off Foothill … did you go to DLS?
October 4th, 2012 at 1:27 pm
My Las Lomas Knights are softer than I was told and made of tissue this season.
Pitt’s team seems to have character.
As for the EBAL chatter on here I see, Cal, MonteVista, San Ramon, Foothill, Amador, Granada and Livermore.
My new team is El Cerrito better than anybody except DLS and Cal
October 4th, 2012 at 1:33 pm
My bad for typo re Foothill…The EBAL invited and wanted DLS in league until it became unfavorable for the Whiners within the league. Sparty may go fully independent again next year. And no I did not go to DLS.
Until DLS is totally disassociated with the league the new set-up is just plain silly. 2nd place is champion ..that just cracks me up.
October 4th, 2012 at 1:57 pm
I’ve made this point before on this board:
Private Schools and Public Schools should not compete against one another … they should be classified separately.
Resources are dramatically different between Private and Public Schools.
I’ll bet all of the coaches combined in the EBAL don’t get paid what Bob Ladouceur makes. In fact, I think everyone of the assistant coaches are volunteers at the Public Schools …. last time I counted … DLS had 8 coaches on their sideline and coaches booth … level field, not!
October 4th, 2012 at 2:21 pm
Ghost- how do you know what Lad makes? I have family members that have worked in Catholic high schools(and coached) all over this state-it is very likely he does not make anywhere near what you are suggesting.
You are not serious that more coaches equals more wins are you?
October 4th, 2012 at 2:35 pm
Renegades10-Are you still a Vandal? Hope things are going well for you up there. I think Cal will have good teams for the next couple of years. Last year’s freshman team went undefeated(yes, they even beat DLS)and the JV is undefeated so far this year even after the Varsity team took all of the best sophomores. These guys like winning so they play as a team. I don’t think the freshman team is doing as well and have some losses so far this season.
October 4th, 2012 at 2:47 pm
R10- Cal’s ’09 JV squad was 4-6 with Dunn and Washington on V as sophs. They prob accounted for 60% of the offense for the 8-2 ’08 frosh. Krause (multi year Bears player) and Farley (one year Bears as center!) accounted for the rest and were the lone skill players from that ’09 JV team to play through senior year (the ’09 JV HC was let go.)Last year Cal had only 14 seniors plus the PK who was one year. ’09 was Billeci’s first year and a new O scheme. Ironically the V QB in ’09 was Kaehler, the subject of a nice article by Matt in yesterdays BANG. He will break DVC passing records this year. He was/is prostyle and wasn’t protoytpe for that new offense in 09. They went 5-5, and lost to Wash first round. A larger than you would expect proportion of eventual Cal varsity starters DON’T play Bears junior fb.
As far as coaches salaries, it’s a non-factor. Most coaches make zilch based on the time they put in. But if you think five coaches at the V level is equivalent to eight, that’s nonsensical. Jr- what is Nike’s yearly stipend to dLS?
October 4th, 2012 at 2:52 pm
Nikes stipend = zero.
If a school wants 8 coaches on staff-go find them. There are penty of people willing to help out. Billecci has a great coach on campus-if he needed coaches so bad why isn’t Kravitz helping out?
October 4th, 2012 at 2:57 pm
Junior,
You and I have gone round and round on DLS issues before. I, too, have no idea how much Lad or his coaches are compensated, but I do know this: Coaches from many football programs are compensated by parent fundraising clubs. I would expect this to be the case at DLS as well.
October 4th, 2012 at 3:01 pm
There’s no way you can take $$$$ out of the equation when you compare any athletic program. Money to afford better coaches, better facilities, better training equipment, meeting rooms, better, better, better, period.
Why do you think USC, Notre Dame, Oregon, Alabama, Florida, Ohio State spare no expense when it comes to their athletic programs … because it gives them a competitive advantage on the field!
My main point is centered upon Public Schools are differently run than a Private School (Academically and Athletically). And thus need to be classified separately.
October 4th, 2012 at 3:11 pm
I have not heard of DLS football coaches getting high stipends. Anything I havbe heard is in line with other nor cal catholic schools which are similar to public schools.
@post 46: have you seen DLS facilities? Are you saying that gibves the Spartans an advantage over EBAL teams? Wow.
October 4th, 2012 at 3:40 pm
Obviously I have a bias toward Cal. The thing about Cal is its depth; there are a lot of juniors. At line they are deeper than they have been in some time (I won’t say ever). And the Offense is clicking with 38+ pts. a game. Their defense showed up at Foothill, but the real story is that their scout teams are really really good. Which is a huge step toward preparing for Friday night! Coach B finally got away from the momentum killer trick play and just let the offense run first, pass second in the Foothill game. Get a couple of turnovers against MV, time consuming running between the tackles, and the occasional completion down field and Cal wins. No need to look forward to SRV, the Livermore schools, or the dreaded Spartans. One game at a time me boys – one game at a time.
October 4th, 2012 at 3:40 pm
TheSchoolmarm’s NorCal Top 25 Week 5
1.(1) De La Salle (NCS D1, Freelance) 5-0. Beat Livermore 57-0. Next: #25tie Foothill(Pleasanton) 3-2.
2.(2) Elk Grove (SJS D2, Delta Valley) 5-0. Bye. Next: Laguna Creek* 2-3.
3.(5) Folsom (SJS D2, Delta River) 5-0. Bye. Next:
@ #6 Oak Ridge* 5-0.
4.(4) Franklin(Elk Grove) (SJS D1, Delta Valley)
5-0. Bye. Next: @ #23 Grant Union* 2-3.
5.(8) California (NCS D1, East Bay) 5-0. Beat #20
Foothill* 36-7. Next: #22 Monte Vista*(Danville) 4-1.
6.(11) Oak Ridge (SJS D1, Delta River) 5-0. Bye. Next: #3 Folsom* 5-0.
7.(6) Bellarmine (CCS, West Catholic) 3-1. Beat Riordan* 28-10. Next: #16 @ Archbishop Mitty* 3-1.
8.(9) Concord (NCS D2, Diablo Valley) 5-0. Bye. Next:
@ Northgate* 4-1.
9.(10) Placer (SJS D3or4, Pioneer Valley) 5-0. Beat
Woodcreek 54-14 @ Woodcreek. Next: Foothill*(Sac) 1-4.
10.(13) Luther Burbank (SJS D1, Metropolitan) 5-0. Beat
Sacramento* 56-12. Next: Florin* 1-4.
11.(15) Serra (CCS, West Catholic) 4-0. Beat #7 Archbishop Mitty* 30-12 @ Foothill College(Mitty home
field). Next: Riordan* 3-1.
12.(14) St. Marys(Stockton) (SJS D2, TriCity) 3-2. Bye. Next: Tokay* 5-0.
13.(NR) Del Oro (SJS D2, Sierra Foothill) 1-4. Beat
#3 James Logan 20-13(OT). Next: Woodcreek* 2-3.
14.(3) James Logan (NCS D1, Freelance) 5-1. Lost to Del Oro 13-20(OT) @ Del Oro. Next: Bye.
15.(12) Marin Catholic (NCS D3, Marin County) 5-1. Beat Redwood* 51-12 9/29. Next: @ Novato* 3-2 10/6.
16.(7) Archbishop Mitty (CCS, West Catholic) 3-1.
Lost to #15 Serra* 21-30. Next: #7 Bellarmine* 3-1.
17.(NR) St. Ignacius (CCS, West Catholic) 3-1. Beat Valley Christian*(San Jose) 42-28 @ Valley Christian.
Next: Sacred Heart Cathedral* 1-3 @ Kezar Stadium(SHC Home Field).
18.(NR) Granite Bay (SJS D1, Sierra Foothill) 2-3. Beat
Lincoln(Stockton) 42-14. Next: Roseville* 1-4.
19.(17) Freedom (NCS D1, Bay Valley) 4-2. Beat Heritage* 31-24. Next: Bye.
20.(21) Cardinal Newman (NCS D3, North Bay) 5-0. Beat
Montgomery* 55-0. Next: Santa Rosa* 2-3.
21.(22) Monte Vista(Danville) (NCS D1, East Bay) 4-1.
Beat Granada* 48-21. Next: @ #5 California* 5-0.
22.(23) Buhach Colony (SJS D2, Central Calif. Conf.)
3-2. Bye. Next: #25tie Pitman* 5-0.
23.(NR) Grant Union(SJS D1or2, Delta Valley) 2-3. Bye.
Next: #4 Franklin*(Elk Grove) 5-0.
24.(NR) El Cerrito (NCS D3, TriCounty-Rock) 6-0. Beat
Salesian* 42-6. Next: Berean Christian* 3-3.
25tie(20) Foothill(Pleasanton) (NCS D1, East Bay) 3-2.
Lost to #8 California* 7-36 @ California. Next: @ #1
De La Salle 5-0.
25tie(NR) Pitman(SJS D1or2, Central Calif. Conf.) 5-0.
Bye. Next: #22 Buhach Colony* 3-2 @ Atwater HS(Buhach home field).
Dropped from Week 4 NorCal Top 25:
(16) Vacaville (SJS D2, Monticello Empire) 2-3. Lost to Deer Valley 35-55 @ Deer Valley.
(18) Lincoln(Stockton) (SJS D1, San Joaquin AA) 2-3. Lost to Granite Bay 14-42 @ Granite Bay.
(19) Pleasant Grove (SJS D1, Delta River) 3-2. Bye.
(24) Valley Christian(San Jose) (CCS, West Catholic)
2-2. Lost to St. Ignacius* 28-42.
(25) Palo Alto (CCS, DeAnza) 2-2. Lost to Milpitas*
19-24.
October 4th, 2012 at 4:03 pm
@#39, Stewie, The EBAL had not invited or wanted DLS in their league. I don’t know where that came from. It was determined (with possibly a big push from the BVAL) that DLS fit in more with the EBAL (which I happen to agree with), and besides no other league would take them. It was more of a case of every other league taking a step backward and the EBAL appeared to be volunteering. The NCS put DLS into the EBAL. All the EBAL did was say that if they were to join the league, they should become a full league member in every sport and not be psuedo independent like they were in the BVAL. That requirement has obviously changed with the recent principal’s meeting and vote to grant DLS special status.
As for the present system of DLS getting an automatic bid for NCS and the 2nd pace team being considered a league champion, that is exactly what was happening when they were in the BVAL. Except that the BVAL 2nd place team (PITT), always got an automatic bid to NCS and home field advantage in addition to DLS getting both. That is why #3 Cal had to play on the road at #6 Pitt in the 2008 playoffs. DLS and Pitt were both given automatic bids and home field advantage. As I understand it, under the new system whoever wins the new EBAL (finishes 2nd to DLS), will not have an autmatic bid or get home field advantage over higher seeded teams. I didn’t hear people complaining when Pitt was hanging banners in those years, so I don’t know why the winner of the EBAL this year should be any different. If anything, they are getting less than what Pitt got all those other years.
October 4th, 2012 at 4:17 pm
Monte Vista, SRV and Miramonte have a lot more money than DLS for sports. Their parents have a lot more money. Check out the booster clubs and the price it costs for atheletes, in LaMorinda it was $ 200 per player at one time- all sports- don’t know if this still exists. As far as Lad, he’s a teacher for 33 years(religion). With that tenure I am sure he makes good bucks. There’s public school teachers with that kind of tenure that are making $ 90 plus.
Lad runs a football camp, guest speaking, clinics, etc. what he gets is his business. As far as his staff, some are teachers like Edison for the last 30 years, again tenure. Alioti a teacher plus the dean and tenure. There is very little turn over for teachers at DeLaSalle. Something to be said for on-campus coaches.
Come out and see a game or too and mabey you will get it.
Junior it’s the same old stuff. Funny how the socal and SJS powerhouses don’t have these underfunding? and whining issues.
October 4th, 2012 at 4:23 pm
Not interested in more cool-aid from the DLS camp … the success of the program speaks for itself.
Not a level field and everyone knows it, period.
October 4th, 2012 at 4:38 pm
The info is for everyone- so if you are not interested that’s your business. Never said it was a level playing field- just stating the facts- if you think it’s kool-aid that’s your opinion.
Better system, better coaching, better conditioning and student-atheletes are the keys.
Again, same goes for SoCal and SJS section powers- they dominate their leagues- same principles.
There’s no level field either at Poly, Mission Viejo, other Catholic powers and national teams.
The top schools put more emphasis into their program than others.
October 4th, 2012 at 4:48 pm
My assertion all along:
Private Schools should play Private Schools
Public Schools should play Public Schools
Doesn’t matter if it’s NoCal, SoCal, SJS, or anywhere in the United States.
October 4th, 2012 at 5:03 pm
Amen Ghost- lets let the minority (the complainers/excuse makers) rule the day and segregate already.
I hear ya BigJoe.
October 4th, 2012 at 5:10 pm
I was of the understanding that DLS wanted to have independent status, so they could schedule other like schools who were able to put similar emphasis into their programs. The EBAL just decided to let them have what they had before and wanted. They are segregating themselves. If they are completely independent next year, hopefully they will continue to play some of the top level EBAL programs each year as well as going back to scheduling their old rival Pitt every year.
October 4th, 2012 at 5:14 pm
What’s wrong with privates playing public powers?
Poly wanted DeLaSalle and so did Mission Viejo. We could go to super leagues, but then power schools will be knocking off each other and only a select few can win leagues and move on to playoffs.
This super league type problem exists in SoCal now in the trinty league and others. The top SoCal teams are knocking off others so some really great teams are not making the playoffs.
I do understand the other side of the coin and these types of teams(DeLaSalle included) completely dominated teams and those teams not having a chance to win the playoffs. However, at least they are making the playoffs. The NCS for one has way too many teams making the playoffs, however its good for the kids and revenue. Mabey super teams are restricted in who they schedule by size, strengh, ratings , etc. DLS doesn’t schedule patsies out of league like some schools. I have no problem with DLS going completely private in a league and still play top notch publics out of league. However I think it stops with football. The EBAL should continue to play DLS in all other sports.
October 4th, 2012 at 5:42 pm
Private school haters, DLS haters ..grow up and get a life.
YOU WILL NEVER UNDERSTAND.
October 4th, 2012 at 5:46 pm
MV vs. Cal
I’m looking for the MV team that blasted Pitt 44-14 a few weeks back to show up tomorrow night, as opposed to the team that managed to score just 14 on a Foothill defense that gave up 41 to Freedom and 36 to Cal. Foothill was able to shut down Chang and the MV running game and I’m sure a lot of coaches are reviewing tape of that game to see just how they did it. Bergman was able to right the ship against Granada last week as the Stangs put up 48. Cal has beaten MV twice in a row for the first time in school history after last year’s comeback win and is now looking to make it 3.
October 4th, 2012 at 5:50 pm
La Salle did not dominate Cal in weeks 10 2008 and 2010. If Cal knows the onside kick rule in ’10, and stop Knowles’ 40 yd td with 4:00 go might have led to a slightly different tone from some faithful. Cal did not back down the past five years and neither did MV in 09.
@44, you think the FB coaching fraternity is going to air their laundry? Not going to happen.
Curious, when will Sparta take on Euless, or Elder or Trinity or….?
October 4th, 2012 at 5:56 pm
Prep fan- Cal’s hot vs MV right now with those two fb wins, added with baseball going 3-0 this past season, knocking the #3 seed Mustangs out in the semis. The Washington and Farley connection in the EB vs Sacto Holiday Classic DID help Bergman get the W in that game.
October 4th, 2012 at 6:59 pm
Outsider, yep got one semester left up here. Currently working for the football team in their video department. Got to travel to LSU a few weeks back which was fun to say the least. A few Bay Area boys up here playing (even though the season has been rough to say the least). Najee Lovett (St. Mary’s/Contra Costa College) has been a starting receiver since he stepped foot on campus this summer. That big O-lineman from Heritage, Oliver, is a freshman this year. Camryn Harris (Valley Christian-Dublin) is a freshman receiver playing with the 2nd team. Jeremiah Walters (McClymonds) is 2nd team D.
Going back to the original point, I think it has gotten to the point for Cal where they consistently will field good to great teams. I think at least one game against a WCAL or SJS power would be a start.
FNL, DLS beat Elder in 06 in Ohio
October 4th, 2012 at 7:20 pm
R10, Cal played Del Oro in 09 and Bellevue in 08, both on the road, & both since the cited Elder matchup. It wouldn’t be a start but a continuation. They took on Pitt this year, and now play mighty DLS every season, in addition to EBAL stalwarts MV, SRV, Foothill, etc, so it is not like they don’t face good competition. They are well challenged every season. As much publicity as Logan got with their upgraded schedule this year, I still maintain Cal is playing a much tougher schedule, even without any WCAL or SJS schools. They used to go out of state for camp under Sanchez as well. It’s my understanding they quit making the long travels due to $$ considerations as many of the parents didn’t/or were not able to make the suggested playing fees to keep travel like that possible. Big deal a couple of years back that most Cal people know what I am referring to. Things may change in the coming years. We’ll see.
October 4th, 2012 at 8:25 pm
FNL680- you are not implying DLS does not play nationally elite teams are you?
How in the world can ANY Cal fan defend their non league schedule of the last 3 years? They have played ONE quality opponent in those years (Del Oro). It is embarrassing the quality of teams they have scheduled. The money issue is BS. They can just as easily go to San Jose to play a CCS team than play CV.
No excuse Grizzlies. If SRV and Logan can schedule up, so can you.
October 4th, 2012 at 9:18 pm
Hey Gades,
Interesting fact about Najee L. my son played Pop Warner with him and he was a stud back when he was 9 or so! Glad to hear he is doing well for the Vandals.If DLS were to go independent, I think the only two schools in the EBAL that would seek them out would be Cal and Foothill (not so sure on Foothill, however, my understanding is that Sweney is a great coach and likes to challenge his kids)
October 4th, 2012 at 10:38 pm
#40,46,52,54 The Ghost has posted:
“My assertion all along:
Private Schools should play Private Schools
Public Schools should play Public Schools”
“Resources are dramatically different between Private and Public Schools.”
“My main point is centered upon Public Schools are differently run than a Private School (Academically and Athletically). And thus need to be classified separately.”
“There’s no way you can take $$$$ out of the equation when you compare any athletic program. Money to afford better coaches, better facilities, better training equipment, meeting rooms, better, better, better, period.”
“Not a level field and everyone knows it, period.”
Weak-weak-weak….ad nauseum.
It’s obvious there is 1, one, uno, un, private that really drives your posts; and credit you for not beating around the bush…about THAT NorCal private..DLS.I’m sure you’re not preoccupied about St. Elizabeth High or the St Joseph Pilots or the College Preparatory School’s unfair competitve advantages. Take DLS out of the equation whal-la the NorCal competitive field suddenly levels out ……………..hardly.
Take almost any of your arguments(?) and put it into another perspective. The 680-24 Publics Corridor advantage over the 880 Publics Corridor. East of the Caldecott vs West of the Caldecott Publics.
“Resources are dramatically different….” You got that right….Oakland High vs Campolinda, Let’s take a look at the aquatic centers and the libraries at both schools.
“….Public Schools are run differently than a Private school (Academically and Athletically)….” McClymonds vs Miramonte, Hmmm let’s compare the number of academic and athletic offerings available at both Public schools.
“There’s no way you can take $$$$ out of the equation when you compare any athletic program. Money to afford better coaches, better facilities,……… better, better, better, period.” Again you are right on the money (no pun intended) Monte Vista or San Ramon Valley funding vs the $$$$ available for ALL the High Schools in Richmond…..hardly a level playing field there.
Let’s keep it even simpler….compare the cars in any of the 24-680 corridor public high student parking lots vs the 880 corridor public high staff/faculty parking lots.
Fairness, level the playing fields, unfair advantages, please, save those alligator tears for the REAL unfairness.
October 4th, 2012 at 10:49 pm
Junior… Cal’s schedule this season is better than Logans. Did you read Zuber’s article last week??? Plus the preseason is only 3 games. They play Mission San Jose soon! And San Ramon started off 0-3 so I’m not sure what you are talking about.
October 5th, 2012 at 4:02 am
Stewie,Ghost,Junior, Big Joe, and others who have recently commented about “publics” and “privates”;
I hope I’m not being condescending when I say that I doubt if there ever will be a consensus as to what is fair in athletic competition concerning public and private(mostly Parochial, but increasingly “Christian” too,) high schools.
However, I think more needs to be, and can, be done by most of the sections to try to “even the playing field” between public, private, and even charter schools.
NCS, SDS, NS, determine playoff divisions strictly by the schools’ enrollment sizes (they do allow procedures for a school to petition to be “bumped” up to a higher division, though) with no distinction between public, private , or “anything else” high schools. CCS and SJS now use a “modified enrollment determination” system, but enrollment is still the key factor. CS, LACS, and SS determine a school’s playoff division primarily on its recent past years’ performance.
I would like to see the enrollment only sections (which includes NCS) modify their playoff division placement criteria, at least have something like a 175% Coefficient(the school’s actual enrollment is multiplied by 1.75 to get a division placement enrollment) for private schools.
Also, I would like to see more uniform criteria for post section playoff divisions throughout the state. Although I think it’s better now than when the Cal Bowls (CIF State Football Championships) began, the NorCal schools are nearly always having to “play up” against the SoCal schools.
I would appreciate comments (or corrections) about this. I think a huge media blitz would help get some needed changes.
October 5th, 2012 at 7:29 am
Go cal. Thank you. The story is that once you schedule a team you are obligated to play them for two years. Both college park and Castro valley were tempted to play ebal teams knowing that there would eventually be an ebal vacancy (dls). Coach B opted out of college park after two years because they could not field a competitive team. Castro valley, at least this year, is respectable. The only team I question is Washington as our first tune up.
Additional cal goes to st marys football camp and their first live scrimmage is against Pitt, James Logan, and dls. The formula seems to work based on where they are to date.
October 5th, 2012 at 9:30 am
You guys are ridiculous…speculation and kissing DLS ass or hating on them either way it doesn’t matter. You are wasting your breath. Get over yourselves and let the kids play. Ya it is fun to go back and forth, but if the area is ever going to grow and mature in football talent and football IQ you guys need to step your game up. That is why DLS beats everybody up is because they are smarter than everybody else. Fricken Little League Mentality from the Peanut Gallery. Deuces!!!
October 5th, 2012 at 10:11 am
CHS has played a perennially nationally ranked team from 08-11 FIVE times, just-like-la Salle (DBP 2x, STA, Lakeland, BG, going 1-4). As PF points out, Cal even threw in Bellevue in 08. I don’t believe any historian would characterize Bellevue as soft.
October 5th, 2012 at 10:15 am
Don’t care what the system is. Here’s the facts- other NCS teams like SRV, MV, Cal and Logan could go to state but would have to fall into a lower division.
If they played open and 1st div they would be going against the likes of Mission Viejo, Santa Margra, Mater Dei, Centennial, Poly, Oaks Christian, etc. and would get handled. So can their enrollment get them to the 2nd div game? Here’s the other issue- the CCS and SJS also reps the North and their power teams like Bellarmine, Serra and the SJS are better represented and stronger than the EB teams, so they should go.
In essance, whether DLS is playing private or not, the chances for EB large schools to go to state are very minimal. The CIF is not going to have private and public state bowls.
October 5th, 2012 at 10:19 am
FLN680- are you suggesting Cal has played a national schedule and strength schedule anywhere near the Spartans? National schedules don’t mean the opponents have to be in the top 25. Elder, EvanChristian, St. Louis, Mullen and SoCal Mater Dei, Mission Viejo, Poly are also nationally ranked almost every year. Cal couldn’t beat the cheerleading squads from these schools.
October 5th, 2012 at 10:44 am
A couple of comments to various posts above…
Regarding the split of Public vs. Private; I am a proponent of this on the State Championship level. As far as whether private schools compete in leagues with publics, that is fine. I will point out however that only 1 state (New Jersey) has this separation currently.
While discussing State Championships, California does not have nearly enough divisions. The state with the highest student population in the country has 5 (if you include the Open Division) state champions. Before anyone starts talking about the watering down of the accomplishment; please note that Texas, that bastion of High School football crowns 22 different state champions each season. I took a look at this a few years ago and came up with the following (note the counts were as a few years ago as well):
Public Schools
Div 9 3000 and up 114 Schools
Div 8 2500-2999 125
Div 7 2200-2499 132
Div 6 1900-2199 117
Div 5 1500-1899 140
Div 4 1000-1499 138
Div 3 600-999 102
Div 2 300-599 102
Div 1 0-299 73
Private Schools
Div 3 500 and up 78
Div 2 200-499 130 (not all play football)
Div 1 0-199 217 (not all play football)
This means 13 different State Champions; still fewer than Texas, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Yes, more than other states, but due to the student population in California, I don’t see an issue with that.
Next, onto the scheduling of opponents. Often times, the desire of a school (or more accurately a coach) to play a tougher schedule is at least partly out of their hands. In discussion with Tony Sanchez before leaving Cal High he told me that at least part of his reason was that although he wanted to schedule more out-of-state games, he couldn’t due to budget constraints. Also sometimes when teams are scheduled the contract is for two years – home and away, four years or even longer. A team that may have been strong at the beginning of a contract might fall a bit from a competitive standpoint. You can argue that a school shouldn’t sign contracts longer than two years, but there is something to be said for stability and even trying to establish out-of-league rivalries.
As for Cal High’s resent non-league schedule; Del Oro was four years ago and was scheduled under Sanchez prior to his departure. That same year, CHS entered into long term contracts with Washington who was coming off of at least 2 straight NCS appearances and Castro Valley. CV certainly has not been a high-end program for some time, but they are close (logistically) and a less expensive opponent. CHS also had a two-year run with College Park, dropped them and scheduled Pittsburg, a perennial NCS power. Although I haven’t spoken directly to Coach Bellici on the topic, it wouldn’t surprise me to see CHS drop Castro Valley for a higher-end LOCAL opponent (although CV has certainly made great strides this season). The idea that CHS will schedule out-of-state powers or even long traveling in-state games is likely a thing of the past or at least a rarity in the future as pointed out by PrepFan in an earlier post.
Finally, a little back up on the correction off some historical inaccuracies. As PrepFan pointed out, the entry of DLS into the EBAL was NOT a choice made by EBAL principals. The NCS forced the EBAL to take DLS in order to get them out of the BVAL where they had the same situation of playing league teams, but not counting toward league standings. At the time I felt it was the best league for DLS to be in and still feel that way. I don’t like the new scenario, nor did I like it back when DLS was in the BVAL.
An argument can be made for DLS to compete as an independent. In past discussions with Coach Lad I know he has thought about it and there are pro’s and con’s to the idea. The reality is that if it were going to happen, it probably already would have.
Finally the arguments about private schools having advantages; of course they do. But do schools in wealthy areas also have advantages? Of course they do! Does DLS recruit? My answer to that is so what if they do. If anyone here doesn’t think that public schools (including mine here in Colorado) don’t recruit than they really don’t understand the reality of the situation. What do you think one of the main reasons for High School coaches putting on Youth Football Camps is? “Recruiting” exists everywhere; it’s time to drop the argument. Before I leave it though, one last point – there is nothing in the rules saying that De La Salle (or any private school) can’t recruit if they want to. It’s time for everyone to quit tilting at windmills.
October 5th, 2012 at 10:54 am
EPC3, Thanks for your always rational comments. You provide a nice unbiased perspective. I hope your team is doing well this year in CO.
October 5th, 2012 at 11:06 am
FNL is right. Cal (and the other teams that are on DLS’ schedule) already play one of the top teams in the nation every year, in addition to the other strong teams in the EBAL. In 2010, they played a top 10 team twice. Should they attempt to seek out a tougher team than Sparty? I really don’t know why their schedule bothers certain people.
Cal’s schedule was almost identical to MV’s this season, as both took on Pitt and CV. SRV did play some tougher teams in the preseason this year, and that is great if that is what they wanted to do. Logan upgraded their schedule, but it is still in no way touger than what Cal or MV faces. Logan is a very good team and will make some noise in the playoffs this year, but just because they upgraded doesn’t mean they play a tougher schedule than others that were already tough. They finish out with Irvington and MSJ, which should help them get healthy heading to NCS. Cal always plays DLS in week 10.
October 5th, 2012 at 11:18 am
Concrete,
Very well scripted … and you have done a nice job of accentuating my point on the resources (coaches, facilities, capital, parent involvement, demographics, regional differences,etc.) that dramatically effect each and every athletic program.
It just so happens that the perfect storm exists for our friends at DLS! Great Coaches, Nice Facilities, Plenty of Capital, No Competition from Rival Private Schools, Strong Academics, Strong Alumni Support, on and on!
Keep living in the DLS Fantasy World …
October 5th, 2012 at 12:03 pm
Ghost,
One you forgot is that because DLS always does so well and ends up going all the way through NCS playoffs and then to the state bowl games, their players get up to five extra games a season. That is a lot of reps. It just keeps building from year to year.
October 5th, 2012 at 1:13 pm
Ghost, we do not live in the DLS fantasy world- we live in the real world that DLS is dominating.
Mabey your favorite school is living in the fantasy world because most likely they are never going to state in the large division. Drop down to lower divisions if possible and you still might not go. The DLS experience is like a college program and that’s never going to change. If your school can’t run that style of program then that’s their fault.
Crenshaw, big inner city school turned it around and is in the hunt for the LA section title the last several years. Snoop Dog had a lot to do with that. Get yourself a snoop dog.
One more think, us private parents are paying taxes supporting the public school districts we live in, in essence also supporting your kids, including very well to do highway 24 and 680 areas. You should be thanking us, very ungrateful as usual. Live that dream Casper.
October 5th, 2012 at 1:29 pm
@72- BJ- Apparently this drivelous blather has affected the basic premise of competition; “Respect all, fear none,” a la the A’s this season. I know a couple of players who competed for that, and label some key pushers as pathetic. Based on the “cheerleading” comment, it seems this thread has pushed a sensitive button. I don’t think Lad’s life work and Eidson’s comments to me after the ’10 onside kick game would support your position… not one, single, minutiae.
Epc- very informative. Thank you.
October 5th, 2012 at 1:34 pm
EPC3 – wish you could help educate this well thought out logic to Nor Cal and CIF football….
Kudos to Ghost, New2This ….for stoking up the fire this week and making some interesting reading for us all.
stewie & big joe – does DLS give you a manual at the beginning of your volunteer pr duty or do you make this up as you go? You guys should start figuring out how to build your own independent blog for 2013….
Gotta love FNL…..some great games to follow soon
October 5th, 2012 at 1:42 pm
Prep, I’ll admit a big part of my wanting Cal to play a tougher non-league stems from the fact I’m tired of seeing people complain that because DLS routinely beats the EBAL teams that the entire EBAL sucks. Or if DLS has a close game with an EBAL team (i.e. Cal 2010), it’s not because that team is any good but that DLS is just overrated. Granted this is more a national perspective than local but even the SJS guys think that DLS has gotten free passes by playing the EBAL essentially twice in the regular season and playoffs. I know that Cal is capable of beating a lot of the so-called CCS or SJS powerhouses and so having them go out and do that would show that the EBAL isn’t comprised of the crap teams people like to make it out to be. Again that’s more of a national and NorCal perspective than the local one obviously. Here’s a quote from Dallas Jackson, the guy in charge of rivals national high school site who puts together the national rankings,
“I am sure we will have to hear about California High being undefeated when we get to the game even though they run though the wet paper bag schedule too.”
Cal may not care overall about a national ranking etc… since they get to play DLS every year, but that is the perception from a guy who isn’t just some fan.
I don’t expect Cal to travel out of state at all. I was aware of the long contracts they signed with the schools they have played. But this is B’s fourth year. Surely those contracts have ended after this year. Playing a SJS or CCS team requires a longer bus ride, nothing more. And I really am still surprised that a showcase hasn’t been put on with some of the top EBAL schools taking on some WCAL or SJS powers. Think it would be very well attended for some great football games.
October 5th, 2012 at 1:46 pm
The Cal faithful, being too defensive, are missing the BIG picture. You have a great program, you just don’t schedule as if you have a great program. You schedule wimpy. You don’t challenge your team enough. You sell your players short when you don’t challenge them in non league games.
No doubt in my mind that 2010 Cal would have defeated Servite 7-8 times out of ten that year. The 2010 Friars were ranked in the top 10 of the nation and won the Pac 5 in back to back years.
Grizzlies, step up and fulfill your potential. Quit acting like you are second rate.
October 5th, 2012 at 2:13 pm
Cal High playing Pitt and CV is not like playing Bellarmine, Mullen and St. Mary’s. Those teams would destroy Pitt and CV.. Monte Vista’s schedule not a tough one either. Step up EBAL powerhouses if you want to run or hang around the best.
October 5th, 2012 at 2:37 pm
Ah, the domination that is De La Salle football. NCS champions 28 of the past 31 years, the last 20 in a row. I could suffer through the boasts and chest thumping of many of the DLS supporters if all those championships were accomplished on a level playing field………but as we all know, that is not the case.
No need to rehash the how and whys, when you are the only D1 private high school out of 21 in NCS the system is set up in their favor. I don’t believe DLS recruits and I agree with Epcthree, I don’t care if they do. They have the best coaching staff in NCS, if not the state, if not the nation. They have a perfect storm swirling above Winton Drive in Concord and they know it. We need to all get over the advantage they have in drawing athletes that, when Lad gets through with them, make them into, pound for pound, the best HS football athletes in the state.
My beef has always been that not one of the other 20 D1 public school programs will ever, repeat ever, have a chance to play in the D1 northern California regional game, much less the State Championship game, as the system is currently laid out. At least the CCS has the ability to possibly qualify two D1 teams into the regional games at the Open and D1 level. Why the NCS opted not to follow this format is a slap in the face to the other 20 NCS D1 progams.
So, while I applaud what they have accomplished, respect how they annually graduate fine young men, marvel at the committment each player has to the “brotherhood”, I wonder why I never hear a DLS supporter on these blogs state they wish they were put in a more competitive environment, such as becoming a member of the WCAL or come up with some other solution. Then again, I suppose if I were an ardent DLS supporter, I wouldn’t want the status quo to change either.
October 5th, 2012 at 2:49 pm
Lets see if Voice has an ounce of objectivity… can you name one, JUST one advantage public schools have over DLS? Just one.
DLS would dominate the WCAL, the Trinity, the SFL, you name it… there is not a league in CA that DLS would not dominate. there is nowhere for the Green Machine to go. I wish they would leave the skirt wearing EBAL league- I pray for that every week.
Status quo? what a moronic, ignorant statement. DLS has challenged themselves at every turn.
October 5th, 2012 at 2:54 pm
Well you can here it now and it has been repeated before.
The WCAL doesn’t want DLS. DLS has beaten the best of the WCAL for the last 30 years. They have played all of them, some some close games, but have never lost.
Makes no differance to me if they can get into that league but that means the other WCAL teams don’t win league and are don’t get a very high seed for CCS. Almost the same as EBAL except private not public. So does DLS go to the CCS playoffs if in they win the league? Have no problem skipping the NCS playoffs- DLS moves a a Northern playoff. The Northern playoff system would have to be more than 1 game so CCS, SJS, NCS and DLS can play. 3 section champs and DLS playoff- ok with me.
Here’s the problem, have to restructure the section playoffs for that to happen because not enough time after sections to get in 2 games plus play state.
What or who does DLS play while waiting for the section or NCS playoffs to finish- 2 or 3 week bye?
Mabey they play a SoCal or National team after season but they have their own playoffs in place by then.
Rebuild the NCS for a super league, remember that will be publics because in the NCS no other private would be good enough to be in that super league.
Super League, DLS, MV, Cal, Logan, Pitt who else?
That means the other leagues these teams came from have less schools.
That’s ok with me, remember also the super league teams will be getting lots of playoff berths because knocking themselves off should not penalize them. You put DLS where ever you want, SoCal and national schedule only- ok- but they still represent NorCal if they take that venue.
In the end, DeLaSalle will the majority of the time represent NorCal, it still comes out in the end as before.
Now if you think playing a national and SoCal schedule and lossing some games takes them out of the state playoff system then it then becomes a tactic to penalize DLS even though they play the best schedule. I don’t think the NCS wants DLS out because they are good for business and the NCS wants state playoff represention.
October 5th, 2012 at 2:55 pm
#84…Every DLS supporter has been ardently wanting to go back to being semi-independent to have a more competitive environment. In regards to NCS, the D1 system sucks because there are hardly any D1 teams in NCS. The Open thing wouldn’t work because how many teams would want to be in a bracket with DLS. The best teams would be forced into a bracket with DLS and thinking about teams like Marin Catholic, Campolindo, Cardinal Newman, Concord, etc… means the other potential reps for NCS in a regional game just got that much weaker at the lower levels.
I have rehashed this many times over, DLS looked into becoming a member of the WCAL in the late 90′s. The WCAL, much like the EBAL, wanted full membership in all sports. That isn’t feasible for DLS. For football only, DLS would’ve done it. But that’s because all football games are on fridays or saturdays (except for freshmen). Most sports have meets, matches, games during the week and can you imagine trying to be a top student if you’re missing classes consistently to get through the traffic on time and not getting back until 10:30 or 11 at night.
October 5th, 2012 at 2:59 pm
Voice, I agree with your observation that no NCS D1 program has a chance to play for a regional or state bowl game. If NCS were run like CCS, then a team like Cal or MV might have more incentive to load up their schedule with tougher outside teams to beef up their bowl selection chances. But the way it is run here, the only way to get into those bowls is to beat DLS, then the selection would almost be automatic, assuming that DLS didn’t lose to a 3-loss team.
Cal gets challenged quite a bit every year. Tonight against MV is a big challenge that I hope the Grizz is up for. The big measuring stick is the DLS game, and Cal has done better than most in that game since DLS switched leagues. I know that the DLS supporters want the teams that DLS routinely beats in league to be able to knock off other elite teams as R10 indicates, as it reflects on how DLS is veiwed by the national and state media & poll voters. Teams like Cal and MV don’t follow those type of polls as they have no stake in them. I sincerely doubt that Billeci makes out his schedule based on how other schools might be viewed, even though he is a DLS grad. I think it is cool that DLS plays a national schedule, and take pride in their accomplishments as I know kids on the squad and they represent the East Bay. As much as DLS fans may not want to admit it though, Cal or MV’s situations are different from DLS’ situation.
October 5th, 2012 at 3:06 pm
Play DLS like Norte Dame did years back. Automatic bowl bid- state bowl that is. The NCS picks up the the travel expenses.
That also means kids out of school by weds. or thurs. when they travel. DLS academics will never go for that.
Here’s another idea- the NCS leagues offer up 1 or 2 opponents to play DLS every year. No lower level league teams only the best. All games at Winton Drive.
That should be fair, SRV, Cal , MV, Pitt, Logan and a few others all in a row.
October 5th, 2012 at 3:14 pm
Or this crazy idea… some school sack up and actually beat DLS.
What a bunch of Un-American, defeatist, quitters.
October 5th, 2012 at 3:52 pm
@Junior, I think in the last couple of Years Serra came close. Has anyone in the Area done better than 14-7?
October 5th, 2012 at 4:22 pm
Old Former- Clayton Valley actually tied them back in 2004. DLS went 8-3-2 but still pounded and I mean pounded the NCS playoffs. They still ended up # 1 in NorCal. That’s the year the streak stopped and they had a tie, and 2 other losses to socal and frenso teams.
October 5th, 2012 at 4:23 pm
Old Former- bye the way- ODOWD vs. Jets tonite- right? If ODOWD is upset Perenon will be back at ODOWD.
October 5th, 2012 at 4:37 pm
Yeah, all the other teams in NorCal are quitters since they haven’t beaten DLS since Pitt did some 20 years back. Great way to look at it Junior. How humble. It couldn’t be any other factors involved.
October 5th, 2012 at 4:44 pm
@ 76.The Ghost posted:
Concrete,
“Very well scripted … and you have done a nice job of accentuating my point on the resources (coaches, facilities, capital, parent involvement, demographics, regional differences,etc.) that dramatically effect each and every athletic program.”
Thank you (I think)….and my point was that within the Publics which you advocated segregating, exists the very same discrepancies you decry as unfair. Once in a while I would like to hear the “Publics for Publics” posters along the 680-24 Corridor to admit to possessing the same advantages, the same “un-level playing fields” with many other publics that they heap in their public-private crtiques
“Keep living in the DLS Fantasy World …”
If that’s what you took from my response I’ll try posting in another language to assist in comprehension. If anything your obsession with the Green and Silver whale might inspire you to convert your posting name to Captain Ahab.
Ghost….Prepcorner must be loving you dude, the number or reponse-posts are spiking off the charts. Anytime you can fire up Renegades or EpcThree to post I will endure all your pi$$ & vinegar. See you at a game…someday. On my way to work at my game.
@73, EpcThree….know you’re busy but your posts are always appreciated. Agree 100% with your State Championships format….more crowns, more participants, maybe more venues around the state.
October 5th, 2012 at 4:44 pm
It is tough to argue with you Junior because you just don’t seem to get it; you never have. You are precisely the type of person I am speaking about in my post above.
Of course DLS has challenged themselves at every turn. Where do I say they haven’t? I don’t blame them for not being able to make something work with the WCAL; the NCS would have to sign off. But for the travel component it would still be the best league for DLS to join.
Of course DLS would dominate the WCAL in most years; but we all know it is necessarily another private school that will eventually knock DLS off in northern California, not a public school. We need look no further than the Bellarmine game last year for proof.
The status quo I refer to is the NCS playoff system, but you just can’t seem to get that through your thick skull.
October 5th, 2012 at 4:50 pm
@Voice: As predicted: you cant answer a simple question.
@Preppy-the quitters mentality comment is mostly directed at you posters that come on here with the same, tired, ignorant posts.
October 5th, 2012 at 5:02 pm
Voice of no reason- again wcal wants all of DLS and CHS sports. That is not acceptable with the travel factor as stated in previous posts. Here’s the deal, son, they have to be in someone’s league and it might as well be the EBAL. It’s in the same geographical area and the DLS kids come from some of those areas and have come up playing with some of these EBAL kids.
October 5th, 2012 at 5:07 pm
You bloggers on DeLa- see ya at the game tonite- for the non- DeLa bloggers come on out- it’s homecoming and check out how the system works- if ya can figure it out. I’ll buy ya a cup of coffee.
October 5th, 2012 at 9:33 pm
How about a proposal for teams losing in their section final to still be eligible for Nor-Cal/SoCal regional playoffs, but only if the team they lose to is selected to the Open division. Obviously this applies mostly to NCS D1 teams as we all expect DLS to be chosen to the Open each year, but could be in place statewide. Would give some great teams (i.e. Cal High ’10) at least an opportunity to be selected to the state D1 games.
October 6th, 2012 at 10:28 am
Okay Junior, I will play your little game………….
What public schools have over DLS:
1) Do not have to pay tuition
2) Do not have to travel as far to go to school
3) Certainly some of the other public high schools have nicer facilities. Even I am not a big fan of Owen Owens field.
There may be other minor advantages but nothing substantive.
I wonder if you will ever be able to acknowledge the single biggest reason (note: not the only reason) DLS dominates the way they have, and will continue to do so, is because they are the only D1 private school in NCS, centrally located in East CC County, with the capability of drawing some of the best student athletes from Contra Costa, Solano & Alameda counties (as they have done for 30 years). Though they are very similar to WCAL schools, even they don’t come close to enjoying the population reach of DLS, over 1.5 million people, which they share with no other D1 school.
Again, Lad & his coaches are the best at what they do, but you don’t win 20 NCS D1 championships, several state and mythical national championships, without first having access to some of the best student athletes in numbers no other school in northern california, public or private, can ever hope to match.
October 6th, 2012 at 10:32 am
Number 2 is the exact reason DLS is at an advantage… Kids have the opportunity to travel that distance if they choose to.
October 6th, 2012 at 11:39 am
Funny, DLS did not look like they had the best atheletes in area last nite, especially defensive backfield. The best aren’t 5-8- 5-10 and a buck fity or 160.
The system won 20 straight, period. that system enhances the player’s ability and lives thru-out their high school years.
They play hard all 4 quarters, great shape, great attitude , great coaching, perfect as you call it storm.You are correct on the div1 geo advantage, same advantage as poly, mission viejo, etc. With the new transfer rules publics can transfer anywhere they want too, MV, Cal, SRV start you’re recruiting process on the other side of the tunnel if you desire.
You should hang around after a DeLa game and see the size advantage they have LOL:).
Bye the way, Foothill had some real good players I saw, QB , WR and LB. Could have something to do with Coach Sweeney and his system. It’s all about coaching in high school.
October 6th, 2012 at 11:52 am
Polls outta be interesting next week. CVCHS Ugly Eagles lookin to be taken seriously. Concord oh the shame loosin to Northgate! Need to come out of the poll next week. Time out, sit in the corner that was @&$/ embarrassing #¥^*%#!!!!!!!
October 6th, 2012 at 12:17 pm
headlines DLS struggles vs. Foothill, well the Spartans ended inside the Foothill 10 and took 2 knees- mabey 41-17, is that a struggle?
Foothill played a hell of a game within 10 twice, Spartans had several long runs called back as usual for suspect calls way after the plays or tak on another 150 yds of offense and 2 more scores. DLS also dropped several picks.
Coach Sweeney is a class act. Foothill was prety pumped up and chests high after the game. Good for all concerned.
October 6th, 2012 at 12:48 pm
I would like to see a Deer Valley vs. Logan game in the playoffs. The 2 biggest high schools in the Eastbay. What would happen?
October 6th, 2012 at 4:17 pm
Why is it, that whenever another team challenges De La Salle, it’s because De La struggleg or didn’t play great. Look, no one expected Foothill to even make it a game last night, but they played hard and kept the score respectable. But as Big Joe says, De La struggled and they had points taken off the board…..c’mon man! You can’t always have it your way!
October 6th, 2012 at 6:12 pm
there were points taken off the board- there were no points taken off the board on foothill- I think I said very strongly that foothill played a great game and DLS stunk on certain aspects- I could say other things about DeLa but I am not going that way on the blog- they better figure it out. Foothill is better than their 3-3 record.
October 7th, 2012 at 9:29 am
DeLa will prevail. Good opponent next week also in Amador. Got a feeling the passing game will pick upfor the Spartans.
October 7th, 2012 at 10:35 am
i like football
October 8th, 2012 at 6:23 am
Voice, Re: #101
One could argue that there’s no private in SoCal that has the drawing power conveniance of DLS. Most of the “big” privates down there have to compete with other “big” privates (and publics) in their nearby area for the top student athletes in the local area. This is probably why there are so many transfers (it’s been running rampant in the Southland for years; we’re “pikers” up here compared to them!) in the SS.
One program that’s kind of a mystery to me is Jesuit in Carmichael. Like DLS/CHS, there in an area with about the same population that DLS/CHS draw from, similar demographics, no other “big” privates to compete for athletes with (there is Christian Bros., but it’s about half Jesuit’s size, and several very small “Christian” schools), and actually has about 200 more students than DLS/CHS. Year in and year out, the Marauders football is generally just better than so-so for D1. Another school in similar circumstances is Damien of LaVerne in the SS. My guess is that these schools don’t have have the budget for student aid that most of the private powers have.
Anyway I’d appreciate comments from anyone that knows more about this.
October 8th, 2012 at 9:22 am
Marm,
This is where you have to credit DLS for hiring Ladouceur over 30 years ago. It took a special coach to turn that program into what it has become. It doesn’t matter if you have access to all those student/athletes if you don’t have a program they want to come to.
Case in point, three seasons ago the DLS baseball team came in last place in the EBAL because their coaching staff was in transition from Steen to Castello to Jeans.
Also, its not just DLS football. Look at other sports like basketball & soccer; two sports where DLS has tremendous coaches and a history of success. Jesuit would have to be able to build a program with a coach that commands respect, and win a few years, before Jeusit could leverage the advantage they have in attracting the top student/athletes in that particular sport.
October 8th, 2012 at 12:02 pm
There are all sorts of reasons as to why De La Salle has been dominant these past 30 years.
It starts with the hiring of Bob Ladouceur. Although I am several years younger than Coach Lad, I have known him personally since my own days in San Ramon. Both my siblings attended SRVHS with him. Although I have been coaching now for many years, I still consider him a mentor.
Coach Lad began his coaching career as an assistant at Monte Vista under his good friend, Rob Stockberger. Prior to taking over at MV, Stockberger had taught and coached at Cal High. What if Stockberger had been offered the Varsity job at CHS instead of Mark Uhrenholt? What if Ed Hall, the coach at DLS doesn’t resign after the ’78 season? What if CHS had hired Ladouceur instead of Uhrenholt? What if DLS doesn’t hire Ladouceur – at the time it was a big surprise he was even considered, let alone hired! The answers to these questions are moot because the stars aligned and Coach Lad ended up at DLS; the perfect place for him AND the school.
He became successful because quite simply he is a great high school football coach. Because he is at a private school, both the kids and their parents who want them to play for a good team take note of his success and choose to enroll their kids there. Success breads more success.
I must say that the idea that DLS gets only average athletes and somehow turns many of them all into superior college-level and ultimately pro-level football players is frankly a disingenuous argument. DLS gets more than their fair share of in-coming superior athletes in great part because of the success that Coach Lad has had and continues to have. This is not to minimize the efforts of Coach Lad and his program; certainly not ALL DLS players are NFL bound! There have been plenty of sub 200 pound linemen over the years at DLS ; plenty of QB’s that weren’t the most talented; plenty of players that Coach Lad and his program DID take and turn into not only better individual players but more importantly; contributors to a superior team concept.
It’s no mistake that the Offensive Line coach at DLS is Bob Ladouceur. Their line play is, without a doubt, the main ingredient to their success. It’s also not surprising that while DLS sometimes seems to start out their season slowly, by the end of the year, they are nearly unbeatable. The team concept is nowhere more apparent than on the offensive line. By the end of the season, they are in such synchronization and get off the ball so quickly that it almost appears they could be called for movement on every play!
The overall success of DLS is due to many things; Coach Ladouceur, the support he received from the school, his assistants, success breading success, the desire of athletes and parents to compete in a proven successful program and many, many other reasons beyond these.
One last comment, specifically to some of you who support DLS on these threads. I am constantly astounding at the vitriol and abuse that is used by some of you in your defense of De La Salle. I understand that it is indeed tiresome to hear the same arguments and accusations year after years; “DLS recruits”, “DLS pays for all their players”, “DLS fixes grades”, ad nauseam. I get it – it’s a pain in the rear to listen to and to have to argue. That said those of you who name call and heap abuse on other posters or worse, other schools and kids – I ask only what I’ve asked before; Do you think Coach Lad would approve of these responses?
As I said, I understand it’s frustrating to have to argue the same points over and over again, but as Coach Ladouceur pretty much does ALL the time… take the high road and show courtesy and respect. If it’s easier, simply ignore it. But quit crawling around in the gutter; DLS and their program deserves better than that.
October 8th, 2012 at 2:19 pm
Having a great time with this board in 2012!
I don’t really care that much about DLS and all of their success but do know they are a beatable team. It will take an opponent to view DLS as a faceless team, as Chip Kelly, Oregon Head Coach calls their opponents each week.
DLS has a mystique that Coach Ladouceur has built over decades of success.
Finally, as EPCthree above me so eloquently writes … take the high road DLS. Your team doesn’t lose due to a variety of reasons … most have been hit on above … show some class and appreciate the good fortune you’ve had.
October 8th, 2012 at 2:29 pm
DLS gets their athletes yes. That is an undeniable fact. Michael Hutchings didn’t show up as an average player. He was starting both ways as a freshman on an undefeated JV team. What Lad does do better than just about any coach is his ability to maximize someone’s talent. That isn’t to say that Hutchings wouldn’t be a star at his local high school. But I’m not sure he would be the same player. Where I think Lad’s ability to reach kids really shines is what he does with players who aren’t the natural born football stars.
A comment I read on a different board that I think holds true is that too many people pay attention to the 1 or 2 star players when ranking teams but not enough attention is paid to players 3-22. I think a perfect example of this is Lincoln (Stockton), who have a USC bound RB and Elite 11 QB but sits at 3-3 with two blowout losses.
As it relates to DLS football, Lad and his staff are able to transform average football players into great HIGH-SCHOOL football players. I don’t believe these players would be the same players on a different team. So while Hutchings, Hoop, Egu, and co. get the headlines it’s the players like Pat Oswald, Larry Ross, and David Ogburn that really serve as an example of what Lad means as a coach.
It’s a perfect storm that has blended together into a dynasty.
October 8th, 2012 at 6:04 pm
Nice post EPC3, as usual. Just as it is tiresome for all of us to hear the same arguments and accusations year after year about how “DLS recruits”, “DLS pays for all their players”, “DLS fixes grades”, it is just as tiresome to hear the vitriol from some DLS backers who think they can sway public opinion by trying to bully other posters. Just the opposite is true as it can make people start to hate on DLS. And it’s not just DLS backers, there are plenty of people who don’t hesitate to get nasty on these boards.
Renegades10 is one who consistently takes the high road and doesn’t try to belittle other posters or their teams, or think that he is somehow better than others since he backs DLS. He’s a level headed poster that I think Lad would approve of.
October 8th, 2012 at 10:01 pm
@101. You listed some nice public advantages. Here are two other BIGGIEs:
-Feeder programs (see the SJS public schools)
-No entrance exams.
So we agree both publics and privates have advantages, that is a first around here. Where you go wrong is you believe open enrollment in DLS’s area is the biggie.
Your theory is destroyed by the lack of success Jesuit has had in a nearly identical situation as DLS. In fact, Jesuit likely has easier access to a larger population. The same case in Fresno Exists with San Joaquin Memorial. Neither team has done anything with this so called huge advantage. Publics dominate in those sections and they can do the same in the NCS with the real reason why DLS dominates: leadership. With great leadership, a number of nor cal teams could get in DLS’s class.
Another large problem with your theory is it weighs the importance of the athlete too heavily. There are so many examples of the team with fewer athletes winning. In 2011, SRV had as many D1 athletes as DLS. Football is too team intensive. Besides, does anyone really believe SRV does not have the same players on LOS as DLS? How in the world do DLS lineman own the LOS without the almighty D1 player? The typical DLS lineman can be found all over the EBAL-they just don’t have the same coaching, strength and conditioning. A DLS advantage? Heck yes…. But it can be duplicated with the right…… Leadership.
You also conveniently forget DLS was a nobody. Just like Berean Christian, Moreau, Valley Christian, Bently, ST Marys, ST Patricks….
BTW-your 1.5 MM claim is really lame. If that were true, how in the world are only 400 or so applying to DLS? Nonsense. Do some research, Bellarmine has won a lot in the WCAL with your supposed “hyper competition” for students. Same with ST Francis in the 80′s and 90′s. One team can and has dominated down there.
You should try to enjoy the excellence of the Green Machine. Not sure we have many more years to watch them dominate-Lad and Eidson are getting close to hangin’ ‘em up. When that happens, if you are honest with yourself, you will understand the true reason for the Spartans success.
October 9th, 2012 at 11:02 am
R10 (a recent DLS grad) has stated in a previous post there are about 1,000 applicants for 320 spots. He’s also posted the history/names of some FB players transferring in as sophs.
Again, nice info EPC. The whole organization can be congratulated for what has been an epic chapter in high school football history.
October 9th, 2012 at 12:29 pm
F680- yes 1000 seems right- however they take 320 or less. Some of the rest go on a waiting list, depending if anyone drops out of the orginal applicants. That means they have 320 to draw from.
That’s not a very big freshmen class. Most of them from Catholic grammar feeder schools. No way are they geeting a big representation from 1.5 million households.
So who cares, they have students applying from everywhere.
I know ex-players from SPSV that were all everything all region and college invited walkon’s that didn’t get in and went on waiting lists.
Since you are Bob Lad’s best friend from high school you should ask him about the secret society at DLS. If you know Terry Edison, then get your info from him.
Why get second-hand info from ex-players and bloggers?
One more question, did your son(s) play football since you are an ex coach and did they ever apply to DLS?
Is this a fair question or does go against everything Lad and Edison have taught there? No hard feelings as the majority of DLS bloggers according to you don’t uphold the Christain Bros. traditions and beliefs. Bye the way, are you Catholic? We know, you are the expert because you know Lad.
October 9th, 2012 at 12:31 pm
Jesuit will enjoy success with Marlon Blanton there.
October 9th, 2012 at 12:50 pm
680 dude, are you serious? epic chapter in high school
history? are you refering to the streak or all the advanatges that DLS has?
Heck, you or anyone else can’t find 1 recruit violation or anything else in the last 34 years at that school. Now that’s a record.
Can’t beleive that you coach. A coach would find a way to get better, not complain and since DLS has only been in the EBAL the last several years that’s not enough history to be bitter about getting beat by them. Let’s see, you said SRV, well after getting beat last year in those 2 games with the div 1 player of the year and other div 1 players, I would suggest as a coach the other voids are filled in to provide a tougher comp to the Spartans. I think the Spartans played your team very well and didn’t run up scores. In fact, taking knees in both games and liberal subs kept the score from going into the sixties.
I don’t think Lad or any other DLS coach would find it offensive to just state facts. 2nd and third teamers are not getting stats because of DLS philosphy- that doesn’t occur in too many programs.
October 9th, 2012 at 6:00 pm
BJmamaDog- just post under one handle. Easier to follow convoluted logic. Just because someone chats with a coach…makes them a coach? LOL.
Reread the post. See if you comprehend a compliment to DLS. And yes, had players who respected all, feared none. Capiche?
EPC, I’m sorry your eloquent post has little impact on the masses. Well said though.
October 9th, 2012 at 10:59 pm
Junior, you just don’t get it do you? Jesuit would be another DLS if they had Lad or a “Lad type coach”. The program has to have some success first before it can leverage the “no boundaries” advantage. At this point in time Jesuit has nowhere near the type of coach or success in the football programto be able to be like DLS.
Most impotantly, 99% of DLS’s advantage is exactly because they can draw from a poulation base of more than 1.5 million people. CC county alone has over 1 million people. When you include Alameda countiy cities Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, Oakland, and SJ County cities Vallejo, Benicia and Fairfield, you surpass 1.5 million people. I’m sure you are well aware Junior that DLS has had student athletes from all these cities and more and continue to do so.
Finally, I have a personal story. DLS has a junior on the varsity team that is not a starter and only gets time when they are ahead late, like many DLS players. This particular player is an incredible athlete and football player who would be a front line starter at his local public school. Therein lies the advantage that DLS has over all local public schools; the incredible depth they have at all positions. Think about it, DLS has been hit particularly hard by the injury bug this season and they haven’t missed a beat. No public school can match their depth, not one.
Don’t kid yourself that the gravy train of student athletes will end when Lad retires. As long as he leaves the football program in capable hands, DLS will cotinue to draw the very best football players from that 1.5 million base. That’s the beauty of what Lad has created and that no other private school the size of DLS can hope to attain.
October 10th, 2012 at 6:31 am
@123 99% of the DLS success is based on open enrollment and Jesuit can’t win? A monkey could coach your 99% team. You are in denial land.
Interesting that you start off with D1 athletes being a measuring stick and now it is back ups who prove your point. Good chance that your freind would not be as good of a football player at another school because of……. Coaching.
Here is another example that completely nullifies your theory: Cal hi before Sanchez. For years Cal was a horrible football school. One thing, just one thing changed and it wasnt open enrollment, and they become one of the best programs in Nor Cal. It was because Sanchez is a good leader. He built a program and the wins followed. Same talent. Different coach.
Interesting that you keep ignoring the other private schools in DLS area that look just like the Spartans did in the 70′s. Only one thing changed at DLS……. Coaching.
Don’t give up publics, SJS and Central sections are dominated by publics. You too can rise to the elite tier. It ain’t easy but has been done and can be duplicated here. Even tho many public school backers don’t believe in you, I do.
October 10th, 2012 at 9:49 am
It is useless trying to reason with you Junior. 20 consecutive NCS championships proves my point beyond a shadow of a doubt; it could never be done without the talent (from all cities in the east bay during that span) that lands at Lad’s doorstep.
To listen to your specious arguments Junior, you would have us believe that if the DLS coaching staff, as good as it is, could take any public school and its limited enrollment area, lets say Amador Valley, and be able to win 20 consecutive section titles. Of course we know that would never happen; nor has it has it even remotely happened anywhere in California that a public school has won even close to 20 consecutive section championships. The law of averages and common sense (what you seem to be lacking, Junior) dictates a public school’s football program will rise and fall based on the relative number of athletes in their jurisdiction.
The denial is yours, my friend; but keep beating the drum for DLS. Most of us on this blog do appreciate what a treasure Coach Ladouceur is to DLS and what he has created; and most of us support DLS when they play OOS games and the southern California powers in the SBG. The one thing most of us know, of course, is that the catalyst for fueling those 20 consecutive section championships is DLS ability to amass all that talent, both D1 prospects and capable backups (what depth!) that no other public school team in the NCS can match.
October 10th, 2012 at 7:56 pm
Since your reading comprehension is lacking: I have never said DLS did not get talent. I said talent is way down the list of reasons for their success. you on the other hand stated that talent is 99% of the Spartan success-that is ignorant.
There are examples of public teams dominating in the east bay, wonder why you ignore them. As you may recall, Miramonte has dominated water polo. This at a public school with 1,200 students. In your dream land, how can this be? You insist this is not possible, yet it is happening in your backyard.
Unfortunately, you don’t understand excellence when it smacks you in the mouth. It is a very rare thing in HS sports. The wise understand leadership is by far the largest determination of HS sport success. No doubt other factors need to be there, but no great leadership = no great results.
The talent angle is especially untrue in the most team intensive sport around: football. It might help if you closely watched the LOS play as that might open your eyes a bit.
October 10th, 2012 at 10:38 pm
Denial, denial, denial. It all starts and ends with the over abundance of talent. What Lad has created has turned into a monster; success begets success. I would venture to say that over the last 20 years DLS has cranked out more college football players than all the other 20 D1 NCS teams combined in the same time span.
By the way, the Miramonte Water Polo dominance proves that within a 20,000 population base they are able to crank out top flight WP athletes, year in and year out, WITHOUT having to have student athletes drive from halfway across the county to go to the school. Truly amazing. If you knew anything about the Lamorinda swim scene you would understand the passion they have for swimming in general and Water Polo in particular. Quite a few olympians have come from Lamorinda as a result. Thank you for helping me prove my point Junior! We would all be in awe of DLS if they could have produced those 20 consecutive titles by having their student athletes come from a community of 20,000 or even 50,000. But of course we know DLS’s area is up to 75 times the size!
October 11th, 2012 at 6:37 am
Can someone get me some of that magical Miramonte water? What an amazing discovery. I have heard of the fountain of youth, but now the pool of great water polo players.
First it was the 99% comment, now DLS moe than all 20 schools? Comedy X two.
It has yet to dawn on you that DLS is unique. You claim the advantages and yet DLS is the only example of these advantages. And it is only the football team.
If D1 talent equaled success the OAL would be the best league around-hands down.
Lastly-you wouldn’t be in awe of DLS. You are too jealous and ignorant to appreciate excellence.