I have had the privilege through my playing (Simi Valley HS/US Air Force Academy) and coaching career (US Air Force Academy, Cal State Northridge, Kansas State University) at the NCAA Division I level to witness some of the very best coaches in the country conduct practice in person. I have seen Bobby Knight (then Indiana, now Texas Tech), Gene Bartow (then Alabama Birmingham/prior UCLA and Memphis), Ben Howland (then Northern Arizona/now UCLA), Lute Olson (Arizona), Kelvin Sampson (then Oklahoma/now Indiana) and Roy Williams (then Kansas, now North Carolina) just to name a few. The passion, intensity, attention to detail, competitiveness, and coaching/mentoring/player development that occurs in a Simi Valley High School Pioneer practice under Coach Christian Aurand and his staff is just as good, if not better, than any practice I have ever seen. Coach Aurand pushes his players to play beyond their individual and collective potential. Most importantly, he makes and takes the time to care for his players as student-athletes and young men!

Butch Hawking Former Simi Valley Pioneer
United States Air Force Academy
Kaye/Bassman International Partner

The Simi High Basketball program made a huge difference in my life and its impact continues to this day. I learned confidence and team play under the coaching of Terry Dobbins and then under the coaching of Bob Hawking I learned discipline, competitiveness, a hard work ethic and the ability to push myself to the fullest in order to reach my maximum potential. These qualities have served me well in my life. I have fond memories of the Simi High School Basketball program. It taught me to want to be the best in basketball and in life. After high school I played basketball at the Univ. of New Orleans (Div.I) and then Westmont College (NAIA). I graduated from Westmont and got a Master of Divinity degree and ended up starting 3 Christian churches in Northern and Southern Ca. over a period of 20 years. Now I am the Director of Church Planting for the Evangelical Free Church of America (West District overseeing the states of CA, AZ, NV and NM. I view my job as being very similar to that of a major college basketball coach in that I recruit, assess, train and coach church planters to plant churches that change the world.

Quotes I remember ...

"Gentlemen, on the line ..."

"We're going to run timed miles today. If you want to be on the Varsity team you need to do a 6-minute mile or better."

"We're going to run sprints and then 75 bleachers."

"We WILL be the best conditioned team in the Maramonte League."

My favorite -

"It's not enough to get close to the fire ... you must throw your body into the pit!"

Dave Page
Director of Church Planting
EFCA West
Former Pioneer

Playing for Simi High Basketball was a Lifes's Blessing! You don't realize it until later in life how much playing a team sport with a great Coach prepares you for other area's of your life.I have heard Don MacLean tell me he approaches his Marriage in a "selfless" manner.This Champion of the Simi High Program has been somebody I admire and listen to when he speaks.I have heard Butch Hawking another Champion preach about Teamwork and Unselfishness in all area's of his life.I have seen Dave Page another champion go after his Executive MBA at 50 years of age.All of these men have character,because they put themselves second in everything they do!!!
Scott Simcik
Simi Valley Pioneer 1978

A lot has changed since my playing days in 1984 but some things remain a constant and that's the continued success of the SVHS hoops program. Our team was a rag tag bunch wearing those ridiculous tight shorts (Coach Aurand Included) with very few high expectations and an expected low finish in League. Our play was old school, right next to our coach's wardrobe. With an incredible work ethic, RELENTLESS style and trust in each other, the results followed. Superior talented teams never figured us out resulting in a 12-1 league mark and 23-3 overall. We became known as "THE RAT PACK" under the leadership of Coach Hawk in his signature camel tweed jacket with elbow patches. Thank you to all my teammates and coach's by paving the way and playing the right way. Many long time loyalists look at our team setting the foundation on what we have seen over the last 23 years. The current team under Christian's directions is a perfect example on what can be accomplished with HARD WORK and DEDICATION.

Dave "Mojo" Motylewski
SVHS Hoops - 1984
Redlands, CA

Playing basketball for Simi High was not easy. It was hard. It was not “fun.” It was demanding. There were times when it seemed the coaches demanded the impossible. However, those of us who persevered and made it through the program learned that the greatest and truest joy in life (the “fun”) comes from reaching goals that are only achieved through hard work and undaunted determination. Knowing Coach Aurand for some time (I got water for him as a ball boy) and having coached against him, I know that he is continuing this tradition of excellence. Those who are fortunate enough to complete the full program will undoubtedly learn more and become better people in a way that can only be achieved through the hard work, sweat, and pain that is experienced in the Pioneer Gym. Twenty years later, I still have a strong sense of pride in myself, my team, and the program. The coaches at Simi High provided me with memories, a work ethic, and a pride that will last my lifetime.
My all-time favorite quote comes from Coach Hawking: “Attitude Determines Altitude.”

Gerald Pickett
1988 CIF Champion

One lasting impression I have of playing basketball at Simi Valley High School is the handshake. You former players that played for Hawk know what I'm talking about. The handshake right before you go ou to warm up. Coach used to come right down the line, look every player dead in the eye and shake their hand. Everything else that was going on in your life at that time family, friends, girlfriends, school, etc. were all stopped dead in their tracks. Coach Hawking looked you in the eye and it was time to fulfill your commitment to him and your TEAM. The reason I bring this up is because it has ALWAYS been that way in the Pioneer program. The commitment to off-season workouts, to pre-season conditioning, to practice, and to the games has always been there and still is. I have had a chance to see them play multiple times since I retired from playing and that's the thing that still stands out- the commitment! I have always been proud to say that I played at Simi Valley High School and watching the program 20 years later I am still proud to be associated with the program. The bar was set high early by Coach Hawking and through the years and ending with Coach Aurand it has stayed there. If there ever comes a time when there is maybe a little bit of slippage from any players or coaches maybe you can get a handshake and a look in the eye and remember this thing has ALWAYS been about your commitment!!

Don MacLean
Class of 88
C.I.F Champions 1988

My fortunate association with the Simi Valley High School Boys’ Basketball Program began when I was 12 years old, and my high-school playing career ended when I was 17. The lessons I learned during this time, I still carry with me today. Some of the important traits, skills, etc. that the Pioneer program taught me and laid the foundation for my life are: Commitment, Honor, Pride, Attention to Detail, Doing the Basics Well, 100% effort, Goals, Preparation, and Dedication. Playing and learning within the Pioneer Program greatly aided in my ability to play collegiate basketball for a NCAA Champion (UNLV 1990), but more importantly the life-skills I gained at Simi Valley High have enabled me to succeed as a business owner, citizen, friend, husband, and father. I am proud to offer my testimonial to the Pioneer Program as one of the finest in not only Southern California, but also in the country.

Travis Bice #13
Team Captain SVHS 1987

One of the phrases (among several) that I still use is, "Attitude Determines Altitude". Great phrase that captures a lot in 3 words. Besides that, I learned so much from Coach Hawking that I use as a coach, at work, and as a parent. He had a great recipe for success that not only applied to sports but works in every aspect of life. As my 3 boys get older, I am exposed to their experiences with all their sports programs and I have yet to see the effort, caring, dedication, teaching, mentoring, knowledge...................the list goes on, that "Coach Hawk" gave us. He was a big impact and inspiration in my life and is a person that I have talked about to others frequently in my time. I was very lucky!

Sean Harrigan
Asphalt Plant Manager
9800 Del Rd.
Roseville, California 95747

Simi Valley's Pioneer basketball program is extremely influential in attracting student athletes and retaining their interest in the sport, as well as in school. It is evident from Simi Valley's commitment to student athletes that they want, and will strive for the best to maintain the reputation of excellence. The hard work, discipline, and motivation Coach Hawking and Coach Aurand have instilled in me has played a major role in developing the successful person I am today.

Mark D Robinson, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor
Student Development
50 Phelan Avenue E207
City College of San Francisco
San Francisco Ca 94112

Being a Pioneer influenced my life in ways that transcended far beyond the Basketball court. Many of my professional successes have come directly from the countless life lessons I learned on the Pioneer hardwood. Competitive spirit, Out-Preparing my opposition, Accepting nothing but the best from myself and others have constantly proven invaluable.

I think many look back to their high school playing days and remember the Team they played on. Being a Simi Valley alumni offers us the honor of knowing what it is to be part of a Program. No different than John Wooden and UCLA, Coach K and Duke.Pioneers play basketball in a manner that is very difficult to compete with. Our teams are always recognizable. We are always the best conditioned, hardest working, and most frustrating team you ever want to come across. Loose balls, charges, are ours, always. As important as anything Simi teams are always well prepared. Bob Hawking once said to our team that "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity" .Well luck has always come our programs way because we have always done what it takes to succeed.

Whether you had the good fortune of learning from Bob Hawking, "the Doctor" Clayton Dean Bradshaw, or Christian Aurand, the philosophy of our great program remains constant and success is a certainty. I am always to proud to say I am a Pioneer.

Ken Johnson
Class of 84 (The Rat Pack)
Henderson, NV

The definiton of a PIONEER is a person or group that is the first to do something or that leads in developing something new. I was fortunate to have my older brother Norris as a Pioneer for me. He decided to move to Simi Valley with my father to attend school. He had such a great experience, that he encouraged my Mom to allow me to move with my father and play for Coach Bob Hawking. For those who know him would say that he is the true Pioneer.

I must say that me attending SVHS and being a Pioneer changed my life and gave me direction. I grew up in a rough area prior to moving to Simi and having the opportunity to be apart of something so special is what I will always remember. Playing for "The Hawk" and having the support, teaching, direction, encouragement, fatherhood, friendship and every other positive descriptive word I can think of to say how much he meant to me. There are so many positive memories that I have from standing on the quad by myself on the first day of school to showing the seniors (Ledesma, Sharp and Lanning) that the rookie can throw down some dunks.

Teamwork, hard work, discipline, accountability and respect are some things that were demanding and encouraged. I still get goose bumps every time I pull into that back parking lot. I always reminisce about hearing the words "track-time", "bleachers" or all of our favorite, "RALSTON". I hope that the young guys that are in the program now, or those that dream of "Being a Pioneer" in the future understand that it is worth the hard work, blood, sweat and tears to be a Pioneer. Just read and feel the passion and excitement all of us old guys have about going through what you are going through.

The memories of the many games, wins and championships (tournament and Marmonte League) are the things that make me smile when I think about all of the guys that ran the sprints, miles and bleachers. When I look through my scrap book from all of the newspaper articles that were written about “The Rat Pack” I still get excited. It has been 23 years. Damn, I am getting old. I will touch on some of the memories that I had playing ball at SVHS. There are two that stand out the most. One is when we beat Westlake on their court to clench the Marmonte League championship and we wanted to cut down the net. First of all, coach Hawk was classy and thoughtful enough to bring a duplicate net to replace the one that we were going to cut down. Well, the “Warriors” as they thought of themselves did not want to be embarrassed at home by allowing us to celebrate in front of their fans. Well, Sean Harrigan was one of the younger guys and he decided to run down to the other end and hang on the rim. Those of you who remember Sean know that it was a big deal for him to get that body up to the rim. Anyway, one of their players decided to run over and knock him off of the rim. So we started a small brawl for a few moments until coach Hawking ordered us off of the court. One other game that I vividly recall is a game at Camarillo and we beat them and some of their rowdy fans decided to come over to our locker room area and cause some trouble. Well, several of us were late getting into the room and as we headed to the room we saw and hear a roar of commotion. Well, Coach Hawking and Principal Perkings were in front of the room tossing people aside so the rest of us could get inside. It was a sight to see two older gentlemen slinging people away like rag dolls.

The purpose of me writing this is because we believed that you must be willing to fight for something that you worked so hard to earn, if you wanted it bad enough. As I think back of the things that were going on outside of the program that would later affect the program in a positive manner was the fact that Butch Hawking, Don McLean and Shawn DeLaittre were all in the 8th grade, but they would come and run sprints, bleacher and shoot with the big boys. The probably did not realize it then that they were seeing first hand how hard you needed to work and compete to become great players at that level. Well, when it was their turn to make the reigns of the program, they took it to another level and I am excited that I witnessed them on their journey of domination.

I will conclude with another definition for you ‘future Pioneer. A Pioneer is a foot soldier whose duties include going ahead of the main company to construct things to pave the way for them. Me and my teammates from the class of 1984, better know as “The Rat Pack”, laid down the foundation for championships that has continued. I think that a big factor in the continued success is the fact that Coach Aurand was a key member of that 1984 team and he recalls how hard he had to work to be successful. So, for those of you that are working you tell off, remember, Coach Aurand is not asking you to do anything that he has not done himself. DO YOUR PART TO KEEP THE TRADITION GOING.

I am fortunate to be called a Pioneer and pass along all of the good that I learned during my best years of my life.

Marty Wilson
“The Rat Pack”
Class of 1984

I believe that the path to unleashing your potential both personally and professionally begins with “getting access”…Getting access to role models, getting access to loyal teammates, getting access to the fundamentals of success, and getting access to purposeful goals, challenges, and experiences that will expand your personal power. Simi Valley Pioneer Basketball is a place where young men can certainly play on a winning team, but more importantly, it is a place where young men get access to their own unlimited potential. SVHS Basketball is a rare institution that decided long-long ago to be the best, to work hard, and to make commitments that others are not willing to make. How fortunate for any ambitious young man to have access to such an environment. Through Pioneer Basketball I earned the opportunity to play on a Championship Team, play for a world class coaching staff, play with and grow up with teammates who expected to win, compete abroad in the great state of California , Hawaii , South Carolina , and Nevada . And most of all, through my experience as a Pioneer I became accustomed to being around successful people and out-preparing the competition. I attribute many of my intangible strengths and some very special lifelong friendships and memories to Pioneer Basketball. Thank you.

In Excellence,

Jon Derek Jones
1988 CIF Champion
UNLV Football

I have had the privilege of being a School Counselor and Fan of the Pioneer Basketball Program since 1963 when games were played in what most of you will remember as Center Junior High. There was a team back in the later 60's coached by John Dobbert and featured, among others, Larry Delaittre, father of Shawn Delaittre, that would rank with the best of all time. But afterwards. the program suffered from a turnover in coaches as the community and the school went thru the awkward stages of growth until Coach Hawking arrived on the scene and established his no nonsense, hard work ethic and defense first approach. Unless you have been a varsity coach, you really do not have a full grasp of all the ingredients necessary to establish and more importantly maintain a highly reputable program where students have the burning desire to participate at that high of a level. Of course the coach must have a solid knowledge of the game and the ability to communicate to his players. But he also must be an advocate of his program at the school and district level, which requires even more fight at times than what you see on the court. He must also be able to communicate with parents and the press. In other words, coaching can be a complicated juggling act and Simi Valley High School has been fortunate to now have Christian Aurand who played for Coach Hawking, then also assisted coach Dean Bradshaw who in turn had assisted Coach Hawking. You could say that is where inbreeding is socially acceptable and productive! The values have been consistent as has been the winning seasons. And one of the consistent results has also been the development of model and productive citizens for the community and the country. Be aware that the road for these coaches has not always been smooth and easy as they have had many scares from fellow teachers, administrators, parents, students, the press, and opposing coaches. But their rewards lie in the esteem of their players who later appreciate their coaches contribution to their development as successful men. The Pioneer tradition of success that is so highly respected in SoCal has been established and continues by these three coaches (Hawking, Bradshaw, and now Aurand) and the hard work of their players. Go Pioneers!

J.R. Perkins
Counselor 1963-1990
Fan 1963-Present day!

The game of basketball is tatoo'ed in my brain since playing at Simi High. We were taught how to play the game right. Fundamentals were practiced daily and have stuck with me ever since. I was prepared mentally and physically for future challenges in my life that were easy to me because of my days as a Pioneer basketball player.

Mike Langford
CIF Champions
Class of 1988

Being a part of the basketball program from 1986-1988 was one of the most memorable and learning experience of my life. The coaching staff not only prepared me to play basketball for those three years of my life, but also prepared me for what lied ahead in my future. From Coach Johnson, who gave me my first opportunity to be apart of a great tradition, to Coach Bradshaw, who always reminded myself and to others about having a BIG HEART, onto Coach Hawking who taught us how to play the game the way it is supposed to be played. Yes we had tremendous amount of talent on that team, but if it was not for the coaches who taught us the importance of playing TEAM basketball there would not have been a 1988 CIF CHAMPIONSHIP. The hard work, dedication, the drive to succeed and the will to want to win was installed in me by these individuals. Without this experience, I would not be the individual who I am today. I want to thank the Coaches and all my teammates for all the memories that will be with me for the rest of my life....

Chris "SPUD" Wright
1988 CIF CHAMPIONS
5'2 110lbs PG
"Nothing is accomplished without a BIG HEART"....

First I would like to Mrs. Hawk for allowing me to be coached by one of the most influential men in my life. She gave all of us Pioneer Rats, the opportunity by being as committed if not more than the Hawk. The countless hours Coach spent away from his family to mold a bunch of young men, was and still is a tremendous feat of commitment. Not many make it as far as The Hawk has without a pillar of love and confidence that a wife gives you. Hawk, you are a lucky man!!!!

I have many memories as a Pioneer. From transferring in my sophomore season and being very out of place, I quickly found a home on the hardwood of Simi Valley High School. I had no basketball skills when I first entered. I was a football player. I had a steadfast stance that no one would work harder than me and no one would intimidate me. From the first day of practice I saw that that was the preaching of The Hawk. So I immediately knew that this where I wanted to be. Hawk and I had few run-ins during my tenure, but after cooler heads prevailed, Hawk always talked to you like a man because looking back, that what he made us, Men.

Two specific memories I have of the Hawk. First was our tirade on the middle of the court at Royal High School. I got a technical for being, well frankly me, wearing my emotions on my sleeve. Coach was not happy as you could imagine and a few choice words were said to each other, (by the way, not a good idea for you young Pioneers), much to the delight of the home crowd. Instead of being truly mad and benching me say for the entire season, we had a man to man talk as we walk to the floor for the second half. It was never brought up again, and I never forgot that. He was training men and later on I finally got that. The second was we were driving to play Rolling Hills in the CIF quarterfinals in Long Beach. Coach Hawk was driving the van in front and Doctor Bradshaw behind. In Bradshaw’s car was Butch, Don Mac for sure, Steve Jenner, Mike Hankins, Doug Irwin and myself, I think. Traffic was as bad as it ever was on the 405 and game time was quickly approaching. All of the sudden Hawk darts into the emergency lane and starts booking down the 405. Bradshaw is going crazy telling Butch his father has lost his mind. Bradshaw only followed him for a short time before pulling back into traffic. I believe he did this only because he was my driving training teacher and did not want to lose that cushy gig. Needless to say we got to the school about 7 minutes before tip-off and still beat them by a bunch. Many other memories flood me as I writehis. What a time!

As I get older I find myself reminiscing more often of the friendships and special times we had as Pioneers. All the blood, sweat and tears are truly worth it. Most of us do not get a chance after high school to ever feel that bond again, so enjoy it and keep it close to your heart how special this time is. Those days were truly best days of my life. My life today is better because Coach Hawk dedicated himself to us unselfishly for no other reason than to make truly remarkable men for society and the future. The tradition has been passed down and still remains today stronger than ever with Dean “The Doctor” Bradshaw and now Christian Aurand. If anyone epitomizes the Pioneer tradition, it is Christian and you young men are truly blessed to have a man give up a great deal of his life to better yours. Always remember that!!! Go up and thank Mrs. Aurand for all she gives and gives up for you. She is the pillar for your squad!!!!

Go Pioneers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tippy Wilcox
CIF Runner-up
Class of 1986

I had the pleasure of Playing for Simi Valley High School's basketball program 1983-1986. During that time I was exposed to many tools that to this day I incorporate in my day to day life. The person primarily responsible for teaching and mentoring me during those years was our varsity basketball coach Bob Hawking.

Playing basketball at Simi High under coach Hawking wasn't just about winning games, but about becoming a man, respecting others, and doing things the right way. The core components of being a successful Simi High basketball player in my mind were 1) Be fundamentally sound (Do a few things extremely well, rather than many things average) 2) Work hard 3) Know and accept your role for the greater good 4) Set measureable goals and always prepare with those as the focus. Not a day goes by where I am not using one or all of these things when dealing with my children, my direct reports in the business world, or to achieve my own personal objectives. I can say without hesitation that my life would be less than it is today if not for my time in the Pioneer hoops family.

For that I thank Coach Steve Johnson, Coach Dean Bradshaw, and most importantly Coach Bob Hawking. Now that I have children of my own I can only hope that they are exposed to such great role models as these three men and get the kind of leadership that coach Hawking demonstrated each and every day while I was a Pioneer and that current Pioneers get From Coach Christian Aurand.

I know that you have a decision soon regarding the naming of the Simi High gym. I leave you with this thought. Each day when you see students and student athletes enter that gym, whether it be for a sporting event or a school activity, doesn't it make sense to send them to a place that stands for honor, integrity, trust, perseverance, and loyalty? I do!! Coach Hawking stood for all of these things and by naming the facility that was his second home after him it would be forever thought of as a place where those things are not only hoped for, but expected.

Sincerely

Steve Jenner
Class of 1986
CIF Runners up

The Simi Valley High School Basketball Program changed my life and taught me that there's more to basketball then just basketball. The skill/ life development, confidence, work ethic, teamwork, and heart that Coach Aurand puts into the program becomes part of every player that walks into the Pioneer Gym! Coach Aurand developed me into a Top 100 player in the nation and allowed me to be recruited by many Division I schools. The desire and heart Christian Aurand puts into every practice, game, film, and player enabled me to become the player and person I am today. I played at Gonzaga University ('01-'02), Dixie St. College ('03), and Univeristy of Nevada-Las Vegas ('04-'05). Due to the work ethic, confidence, and basics that stuck with me since high school, I was fortunate enough to take my game to the professional level in Israel for the 2006 season. My basketball adventure continues as I'm travelling to Bosnia for the 2008 season. Nonetheless, Coach Aurand runs the Pioneer program on a professional level. The team work and individual skills taught on an everyday basis help any basketball player raise their own basketball level and reach their goals and dreams of succeeding in the basketball world. You realize that the littlest details are the biggest details in basketball, but those also transpire to life as well. To become a great basketball player you must possess many qualties that separate the men from the boys: Discipline, Confidence, Attention to Detail, Winning Attitude, Respect, etc. The SVHS Program taught me not only to be a well-rounded basketball player, but an even better person. That is what makes the program rise above others and succeed: the dediated push to make players great people. Not only did Coach Aurand push ourselves beyond our limits, we made it a daily habit to push our ownselves beyond the limits. With the community support, family, friends, and alumni behind the program, it's not a mistake what Coach Aurand has already accomplished and what he'll continue to do in the future. I didn't see Coach Aurand as just a basketball coach, I saw him as a father figure, life coach, and a best friend! It is very important for a high school coach to show his players that the skills you are taught now stick with you for a lifetime. I'm proud that I was part of the Simi Valley High School basketball tradition and coached by someone who has nothing but love for his team and players. Day in and Day out, I still bleed Pioneer blood and will continue to succeed due to the INTENSITY, ATTITUDE, and HARD WORK Coach Aurand taught me during my time in his program! Go PIONEERS!!!

Dustin Villepigue #30
SVHS Class of 2001

Pioneer basketball has always meant pride and success to me. We were taught the fundamentals of the game with a deep passion and burning desire to win.

I transferred back to Simi after a very successful junior year in New Orleans. My personal stats were great, but we had a losing record. I could have enrolled at Royal and had the same type of year, but I never really considered it. Simi High was the place that we were building a winning tradition. That was very important to me. Even though my own stats weren't quite what I wanted my last year, I know I made the right decision.

Coach Hawking is a leader with a total commitment to the game of basketball. The program is so successful today because of the foundation he laid in the 70's. Stand up, be a man, don't let anyone push you around! Winning traditions don't just happen by chance (look at Royal). I'm proud to be part of that legacy.

This year's team carries on the tradition and is absolutely spectacular! Coach Aurand deserves to be CIF coach of the year.

Sincerely

John Page
Class of 1978

"Playing basketball at SVHS for me was about being part of a family, a tradition, a sort of brotherhood of young men giving everything from within towards one common goal. Success back then, as with the current generation of Pioneers, began with the realization that the program was bigger than any one individual and that if you wanted to be a part of this rich tradition... you needed to get on board. Thankfully, I made that jump!"

I found it difficult to write a brief testimonial that would do justice to just how important the Pioneer program has been in my life. In order to honor Bob Hawking, Dean Bradshaw, Steve Johnson and my teammates during the 80's I am compelled to write more. The following is more of a short story... key moments that helped define my experience at SVHS and in the years to follow.

My life would certainly be much different had I not played basketball at Simi Valley High School. The influences of Bob Hawking, Dean Bradshaw, Steve Johnson and my teammates had a significant impact on why I chose teaching and coaching as a career.

I was introduced to the Pioneer program at a very early stage (3rd grade) through Coach Hawking's summer camps. Little did I know that the summer of '77 would be a defining moment in my life. Nor did I realize (at the age of 9) that I was setting the wheels in motion for a career that has lasted to this day. My coaching career began with that familiar "Yo" as I walked through the Simi gym and was greeted by Coach Hawk. That signature "Yo" that I discovered later meant so many different things based on tone, pitch, and circumstance. I instantly became a part of the program that day. I wasn't in the program yet (that would come later... with lots of work) but I was a part of something much bigger than myself... it was my first step towards being a Pioneer. I spent 5 summers with Hawk - 5 camps that were early training years to prepare me to step"in" to the program.

In September of 1984, on the first day of school, I walked into the 6th period basketball meetings nervous, excited, and so wanting tobe in the Pioneer Basketball Program. As I walked past the first row of desks their sat all those seniors Wilson, Moncure, Mojo, Laughlin, and Johnson to name a few. They were huge in my eyes, more for what they stood for than their height. I was directed to the back and on the way passed by the older Aurand (Christian), Mojo Jr., and Harrigan (he tried to trip me as I walked past.) I finally took a seat on the floor against the back wall. The room was packed especially in the back with all the new sophomores standing and sitting awkwardly, shoulder to shoulder. Up front, Coach Hawk stood (shadowed by Bradshaw and Johnson) and was about to give his first day directives. I remember in my own mind thinking, I am actually here! If I can make this team, I am going to be part of this thing.Hawk's first words, First rule gentlemen, BE ON TIME, WHEN TIME IS INVOLVED. Yo, Johnson you were late, that is why you are sitting on the ground. My heart sank and I thought it was over for me. What he said next drove me further into a panic. Fellas, the cream always rises to the top. These seniors in the front were once sophomores like all of you in the back. Look how many are left. 90% of you in the back won't be here in 2 years. I quickly looked around at my peers and assessed that I wasn't half as as most of them. This was not going to be easy.

Fortunately, I stuck it out. I played my sophomore year under Coach Steve Johnson, worked hard and spent my last two years playing for Coach Hawk. I was blessed my entire high school career to be surrounded by a great group of guys.

I owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to Bob Hawking. The amount of time he invested in me as a player and then as his assistant at Cal State Fullerton helped mold and shape my coaching philosophy to this day. One of the key phrases that I think epitomizes just how relentless and tenacious he was as a coach he said to me on my first day at CSUF. We were discussing my job description and after going through the lengthy list I said, How many hours a day do you want me here? He replied, TJ, what is your threshold for pain? This is a 24/7 job. I spent 7 days a week, 365 days a year, for three years working side by side with Hawk. The man did not stop working. He had a tremendous influence on my life from the summer of 1977 to this day (2008). Over thirty years of investment in me!

Dean Bradshaw (who to this day I remain close) and Steve Johnson were solid fundamental coaches with keen abilities to get the most out of every player. The varsity team of '84 (Rat Pack) was loaded with great leaders who set the tone for the entire program. In '85, I got to compete every day against Christian Aurand, Sean Harrigan, and Mark Robinson. My senior year ('86), my closest friends Steve Jenner, Doug Irwin, Tippy Wilcox, Mike Hankins, and Gus Gates were joined by Travis Bice and some pretty good sophomores McLean and DeLaittre were studs! We were very successful and Hawk tabbed us as Just the Best until 88 of course.

Bob Hawking started an incredible legacy in the Simi Valley High School Basketball Program. Both Dean Bradshaw and Christian Aurand have done a remarkable job of continuing the tradition encouraging, teaching, and developing young men into leaders. What has happened on the court each season is small potatoes when compared to what life lessons these three have instilled in hundreds. I am grateful to have been a part of the program and to be included as an alumnus. The cream always rises to the top...and that is exactly where all three of thesecoaches belong.

Todd Johnson
1986

Growing up in Simi Valley and having a father that was one of the first basketball stars to ever come out of Simi Valley High School and receive a Division 1 basketball scholarship, there was never any doubt that I would someday wear the maroon and gold. My father (Larry DeLaittre) and I met Coach Hawking, his son Butch Hawking, Don MacLean and Steve Barlow when I was in 2nd grade and we formed one of the best Simi Valley Vikings youth basketball teams of all time. At one time we had a 56 game winning streak playing under Coach Hawking. I remember when I was about 7 or 8 years old and was shooting around at the Simi gym when all of a sudden one of the varsity players came up to me and told me that I could not shoot at his basket unless I could do "this" ... At that very moment he took off for the north middle basket of the gym and slammed it down hard with authority. I was impressed and scared at the same time. The Simi varsity player turned out to be UCSB bound guard Bryan Roberts. I remember moving over to one of the side baskets and telling myself, under my breath of course, that one day I was going to be better than him. I do not know if I ever turned out to be as good of a player as Bryan Roberts, but I sure did enjoy watching him play for Simi and I looked up to him. I have always looked up to former Pioneer players from Simi basketball summer camps like Scott Simcik, Bryan Smith, Sean Lannin, Marty Wilson, Mojo, Geraud Moncure, Kenny Johnson, Dr. Mark Robinson, and current Simi High Coach Christian Aurand. I just want to thank all of these former Pioneer players for being such excellent role models for me to look up to when I was growing up in grade school and junior high. All of you, along with Coach Hawking and Coach Dean Bradshaw have set the foundation on which this basketball program was built on - which is hard work, commitment and excellence. Thanks to all of you the Simi High basketball tradition continues.

I have taken several things with me that I have learned from the Pioneer program and apply them in my everyday life. I have learned that you can only achieve greatness if you are willing to sacrifice, pay the price and put in the work. I have learned that it is ok to be competitive at everything and compete at the highest level in anything you do in life. I have learned that it is ok to want to fight your way to a CIF Championship and that sometimes meant getting pretty physical in practice with teammates. I have certainly made some life long friends from the basketball program and keep in touch with many former players on a regular basis.

I will never forget winning a CIF Championship, a CIF Championship Ring and a CIF runner up award in 1986. Even though the 1988 CIF Championship team gets most of the recognition, I just want everyone to know that the 1985-86 team will never be forgotten. This was the first Simi team in history to make it all the way to the CIF Championship game (played at the LA Sports Arena). This team also destroyed the #1 ranked team in CIF (Capo Valley) by 30 points to get there. I have learned a lot from my former teammates on the 1985-86 team - Mike Hankins, Ty "Tippy" Wilcox, Todd Johnson, Steve Jenner, Travis Bice and Doug Irwin to name a few. These players taught me what it was like to be physical, play as a team and that sometimes you needed to knock someone on their tail if the outcome meant winning or having a chance to win the game.

Shawn DeLaittre
1988 CIF Champions
Eastern Washington University Dean's List 1990
2-Time Big Sky Conference All-Academic Team 1990-

Coach Hawking certainly helped to shape my life and helped to make me who I am today. That commitment and dedication and hard work he instilled in us, transcends into all other areas of our life and definitely gives us an edge over our competitors...whoever they may be.

Brian Miller
District Chief of Staff
Congressman Elton Gallegly

When I think back to all the lessons Coach Hawking taught, my favorite saying has been a motto I have lived my life by: Success is only obtained through the three D's - desire, determination and dedication. These three D's helped me become an effective leader in this way ... Desire: The yearning to lead people to succeed. Determination: The strength of mind in knowing that I can lead people to succeed. Dedication: Having the commitment to have people follow me into successful endeavors. Coach Hawking was more than just a coach to all of his players - he was our life teacher.

Pat Laughlin

THE PIONEER TRADITION

The experiences I had as the Simi Valley High School Principal from September 1981 to July 1991 were the most rewarding/fulfilling moments of my public education career. Most high school principals dream of the possibilities of some of the accomplishments we experienced at Simi Valley High School. Even before I arrived there the academic, athletic and musical traditions at the school were prominent and easily detected. One only needed to be on the campus for a few minutes to know that something very special was happening there.

Academically SVHS was to go to the head of the class during the early 80’s by winning the academic decathlon and representing the state of California in the national academic decathlon competition.

Musically, the SVHS band and choruses were high achievers and the band was recognized as one of the best marching bands in the state.

Athletically, the Simi Valley High School Pioneer Boys Basketball program under the guidance of Bob Hawking was the “backbone” of the Pioneer winning tradition. All the earlier mentioned programs had very hard working and dedicated students which resulted in many and varied achievements. However, it was obvious that the Pioneer boys basketball team worked harder than all the rest. They were indomitable.

Every day the basketball team worked to be the best they could possibly be. There was never ever a time to slack off or coast. It was onward and upward from start to finish. Coach Hawking wanted every player to be in top condition and saw to it that the team was able to run most other teams to the point of exhaustion.

There was never a question as to whether there would be a CIF championship at SVHS, only when.

During the ten years I was at SVHS I saw dedication and loyalty to a “team effort” that was second to none. From the assistant coaches and players at the junior varsity and sophomore levels to the varsity, every person in the program was an important member of the team. Coach Hawking instilled great enthusiasm, a deep love and fervent commitment to Pioneer Pride that was to continue in the lives of every young man that had the privilege to be a part of the Pioneer basketball program.

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to travel with the Pioneer basketball team and am proud to say that I did not miss a varsity basketball game during my ten years at SVHS. Due to the strength of the Pioneer basketball program, we made trips to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Oahu, Hawaii; Juneau, Alaska; Las Vegas, Nevada and numerous locations in California.

In closing, I must pay homage to Coach Hawking for his fatherly guidance of the young men he had in his basketball program. Not only did he require an all out effort from each player who entered the court of play for the Pioneers, but also he was steadfast in his requirement of outstanding behavior consistent with good sportsmanship and citizenship.

Seeing the successful young men who returned to the SVHS Pioneer gym, the Hawk’s nest, for the 20-year reunion was a shinning example of the long lasting effects of Coach Hawking’s program. Those involved were very thankful for the experiences that shaped them into the prosperous people they are today.

I am very proud to have had the occasion to know and work alongside Coach Bob Hawking. He should be exceeding pleased/satisfied with his efforts and success with the SVHS boy’s basketball program over the entire course of his leadership. Congratulations Coach!

Dr. David L. Ellis
SVHS Principal 1981 -1991

Playing for Simi was a great experience for me. I started playing for Coach Hawking in the 4th grade for the Simi Valley Vikings. Thanks to Coach Hawking and playing with guy's like Don, Shawn, and Butch I learned how to play the game of basketball the right way at an early age. Basketball was more than just a game to us at SVHS, it was a way of life. After practice, we would go to a local elementary school and play dunk ball until it was dark. On weekends we would play at night in the Simi gym. We were true gym rats. I will always have great memories of playing basketball at Simi. For me, my memories are more than the success we had as a team on the court but also the experience I had of playing with a great group of guys.

Steve Barlow
Class of 1988 - CIF Champions

I was heavily involved with Simi basketball for the decade from 1980 to 1990 in various roles from just a fan to public address/play by play announcer. I missed NO HOME GAMES and almost no road games during that era, and when I was in the stands, I usually sat with my friend Doctor Ellis, who I believe had a tremendous positive influence on ALL SVHS athletics during his time there.

However, when it comes to Pioneer Basketball, certainly the MAJOR influence there was “The Hawk” - - - coach Bob Hawking, and he was a most positive role model for his young charges, along with his head assistants, Dean Bradshaw and Steve Johnson. At practice every day, they not only taught X’s and O’s, but life’s lessons as well - - - and ALL their players remember.

I have since attended many season opening tournament games, as well as several alumni games and CIF playoff games, and it always warms me when I see the likes of Butch, Dave “Mojo”, D Mac, Steve, Tippy, Dustin, Todd, Shawn and some old men like me and Dr. David returning year after year to reshare the great camaraderie we experienced in years past. I have been privileged to attend some “after” these events parties at the home of Coach Aurand, and the sense of pride and togetherness that is shared among the program’s former players is quite special. It isn’t like that everywhere else - - - this sense of belonging was created, first by Bob Hawking, and then continued by Dean Bradshaw and now Christian Aurand (starting his 10th season as head coach next season - - - can that be right?).

I am proud to have been associated with such a “class act” as the Simi Valley HS Basketball program, and will always remember absolutely everyone who passed through the program.

Rick Gordon

I want to start by saying that our experience as a basketball team was fantastic. My whole family will never forget it and we talk about it from time to time. It almost felt like a professional team with the amount of travel we did for tournaments and preseason games. It was great that our hard work and dedication helped us to be very successful. I never wanted our time together as a team to end. The Simi Valley High School Basketball Program was a fantastic experience.

Tim Hall Class of 1988

The SVHS Basketball Program taught me many things. I just didn't realize how many of those things would still be inspiring me today and on a daily basis! As Coach Hawking would say to me, "You Gotta Love It"!! To this day in my life, I never realized how profound that statement or quote would mean wherever I go, whatever I do or whomever I chose to have a personal relationship with!!! At the end of the day gentlemen "You Gotta Love It" and I have found there lies my passion and I do LOVE IT!!

Shawn Colvin Class of 1983

Simi High School Basketball is Bob Hawking. His basketball knowledge, dedication and pure to the core intensity has created the Simi basketball tradition which will continue for many years to come. Guys like Simcik, Roberts, M. Wilson, Butch Hawking and Don Mac and I'm sure many more in between are the results and true testimonial of Coach Hawking / Simi round ball. If any player has ever got the Bob "Knight" Hawking huddle stare down than you'll agree that his "hawk eyes" will make you jump higher, run faster, take a charge more often and D-up like a beast unleashed. There you have it.... Hawk is the man. Enough air time for Him. Just get his name up on the gym wall as "The Man - Hawk Arena". Anybody that was fortunate enough to have him as a coach can only say thank you for carrying the ball in so many ways..... Coach Hawking thanks....

Paul Stramaglia

I start sweating when I think how hard we worked in preparation for the 83-84 basketball season. It wasn't so much that Coach Hawking pushed us, but how hard we pushed ourselves. That was the key for the success of "The Rat Pack"! We were the best conditioned team anyone would face and we developed a disciplined trusting of each other, motivated and inspired by Coach Hawking. We were well prepared for success and we pushed ourselves to reach more than we thought we could. We took pride in taking charges, in stealing the ball, getting a 5 second call. Thanks for the memories and training prep for life!
I remember one day at practice Coach Hawking introducing an skinny 8th grader, barely 6 ft, named Don MacLean to our team, pronouncing that he was the future of the program. Congratulations to '88 team, led by Don, and for the fantastic teams who have followed with incredible success and for building on the traditions laid by those who have gone before. It is good to see Coach Aurand continue to have success. May you all have the great basketball memories that I now cherish.

Cary Pittard
Class of 84 (Rat Pack)

Coach Dean Bradshaw is (to me) one of the single greatest coaches to ever coach in Southern California High School Hoops. I knew going into each and every game we played our team was both better coached and better conditioned. That gave us the edge each time we played teams more physically gifted than ours. Coach Bradshaw taught me most that competing each and every day in practice carried over into games, and now, into my daily life. I think I speak for all of the Class of 93 Pioneer hoops (who lost in double overtime in the C.I.F Finals) -- we wanted that game so bad for Coach Bradshaw. We came up short but the things we learned from Coach Bradshaw will never be forgotten, so we WON in the long run. Thanks for the time and memories Coach Bradshaw!!
You should be so lucky if your son gets the chance to play hoops for Coach Aurand. I don't care if you're the best player on the court or the last one off the bench. The three hours a day practicing and learning from Coach Aurand are PRICELESS. I live in Utah now and would give anything to have my two young boys get taught by the best. I know under Coach Aurand you're being tutored in the game of life and basketball by a man and coach who really cares how you are progressing. TEAM always comes first in Pioneer basketball and continues to be taught through Coach Aurand. Thank you Coach Aurand for teaching me "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog." I am forever grateful to you for your time and friendship to this day!!! I am a Pioneer 4 LIFE!!

Ryan J Briggs
Class of 93