VERDE PARK 18, MAYA 16

In one of the leagues more exciting title games, Verde Park wins it's first Class A championship in a 18-16 win at La Parada Park, Maya's home field.  In what has become a huge rivalry, Verde Park mad key plays in a two minute 12-0 span they put them in the drivers seat after halftime.  The score was tied at 6 at the half.

Maya made two drives late in the second half, but dropped passes on well thrown balls runined any big gains.  Verde went into ball control and burned valuable time off the clock.

Maya won the Public School League regular season title for the second staight year.  Last season the Jaguars beat Verde in a thriller to win it's first championship.  Verde Park, a perennial Class B power for year, last won a championship in 2005.  Since then, they lost championship games in 2006 (loosing to PSL small school Jess Schwartz) & 2008.  They have played in the championship game in each of their two years in Class A.

Full story, play by play & pictures comming soon....

2009 AAAC Championship

It's Maya vs Verde Park in a rematch of the 2008 title game.  Last year, Maya beat Verde in a double overtime thriller to win it's first championship.  After 3 city titles and a championship in 2005 (lost title games in 2006 & 2008), Verde Park is in its second year of Class A football and have been in the championship game both years. 

Maya, in it's 4th title game, finished the season 4-0-2, pitching 3 shutouts, and only gave up 3 touchdowns this season.  After a tie in the season opener, the Jaguars dominated Verde and Verde Park 19-0.

Both teams have steadily improved since that matchup and have similar teams for the most part.  Both coaches are also well respected and are loaded with talent.  Both programs are perennial championship contenders.  This should be a good one.

MAYA 22, WESTLAND 0

On 2 of the first 3 plays Maya's Edgar Roldan sacked the Westland QB and on 4th down big Michael Edison got to him for a safety.  Maya then got the ball and moved the ball down field running and throwing until Alex DeLeon hit Raymond Vest for a 25 yard touchdown reception.

Maya converted on the 2 point conversion on a pass to RJ Lovett.

Both teams played stingy defense to finish the half.  10-0  Maya started with the ball in the second half and moved the ball down to the Westland 30 yard line when ALex DeLeon streaked down the sideline for a touchdown to make the score 16-0.

Maya then got the ball on downs and again moved it down field into territory and finished it off with an 30 RJ Lovett run.  Score 22-0.

Maya then got the ball on downs and moved it to the westland 40 when Alex DeLeon hit Aldo Acosta for a 40 yd touchdown pass.  28-0.

On the final Westland posession Ricardo Mendoza intercepted a pass for his 3rd of the year.

MAYA HIGHLIGHTS.

RJ Lovett 80 yards rushing, 1 td
Michael Edison -safety 2 sacks and numerous huge blocks for the running game.
Alex DeLeon- 120 yds passing 1 td 2 rushing TD's
Raymond Vest- 45 yds receiving 1 td
Aldo Acosta -40 yards 1 td
Edgar Roldan - 3 sacks
Mark Togba 2 sacks

VERDE PARK 20, PREMIER 14

In the leagues most exciting playoff game ever, Verde Park came from behind, then held off a hard charging Premier high school in a 20-14 win.  Down 7-6 at the half, Verde Park capitalized on turnvovers by turning them into two touchdowns.  A Late rally by Premier, led by Markel Adino, fell short.

The win puts Verde in the Class A championship for the 2nd straight year and for the 3rd time in 4 years including losses last year to Maya and in 2006 to Jess Schwartz.  Verde won the Class B championship in 2005.  The also appeared in Class B championship games in 2001& 2002.

Verde will play the winner of Monday's Maya vs Westland game for the league championship.

Westland has nothing to loose, dangerous for a loaded Maya team that dares not look ahead to next week's championship game.

Maya thumped the Scorpions last week 34-0 and show no signs of slowing down.  The defending camps have the leagues best line and a trio of back including player of the year candidate RJ Lovette.  Lovette is the leagues top rusher, leading scorer and has had at least one 50+ yard TD run in each of Maya's game, probably a record there.  Mike Edison may be one of the leagues best linemen and his name has come up as a plyer of the year candate also as he dominates the line on both sides of the ball.  he even threw a 50 yard pass as a backup QB.

Quarterback Alex DeLeon as been superb since being handed the reigns a few weeks ago and has several good targets to aim at including Nick DeLeon, Eddie Sanchez, Devonte Wilson, Manny Dyer and Raymond Vest.  Westland is in a rebuilding year, obviously, but anything can happen at playoff time.

The winner has to face the winner or Verde vs Premier Thursday.

Last week, Verde & Premier met for an anticipated slugfest, but it was Premier that was taken, 26-0. 

Loaded with talent, Premier was the early season favorite.  The Titans won the championship in 2007 and looked to be headed that way again in 2009.  For some reason, player of the year candidate Markel Andino has shown no intrest in playing quarterback and the offense has sputtered.  With at least two blue chips at each position, Premier looks like the league sbest team on paper, but they were clearly outclassed by the smaller, younger and maybe faster Verde Park players.

Nothing has changed at Verde.  daring you to astop them, they run the same plays they've run the past 10 years and will only take what you give them in the air.  And yes, they can pass the ball.  Well rounded & well coached, another return to the championship will onlu add to the reputation they brought with them from small school Class B....perennail contenders.

Coaches, check your emails Tuesday as we will be sending out all leage nominations.

Top Players will be named to our Blue chip list & academically eligible players names will be sent to local junior colleges.

We will also look at possible fielding a tackle team & nomination players for local semi pro teams.  Players playing semi-pro football will still be eligible for junior college play.  Many NFL player, including the Cardinals Duece Lutui have played semi pro on their way to college & pro ball. Interested?  Contact us at coachmo@coachmo.com

We wil;l also have a post football combine/mini camp for those looking to play junior college football or semi pro, Saturday the 31st.  For more info to contact us at fbu@coachmo.com or visit us at www.fbu.coachmo.com

At The Ditch 

MAYA HIGHLIGHTS 

Ricardo Mendoza intercepted the first pass

RJ Lovett ran for 6 yards for the first touchdown. 

Eddie Sanchez 2 point conversion 8-0

Next posession Alex DeLeon threw a 60 pass to Devontae Wilson for an incredible pass and reception.  no conversion  14-0

Alex DeLeon had a 25 yard interception return for a touchdown.  No conversion

Last play of first half  Rj Lovett ran in from 60 yards for a touchdown.  Eddie Sanchez converted  for 1 point.  Half  27-0

Opening drive of second half RJ had a 50 yard run. 

Nick DeLeon caught a 5 yard pass from Alex DeLeon.  Aldo Acosta caught 2 point conversion to make score   35-0. 

Last play of game  Nick DeLeon caught a 50 yard pass from Michael Edison

Maya set team record for fewest points allowed in a season.  18.  They also broke another team record for average points in a game of 19 (114 points)

Quote "Westland has some classy guys who play hard the whole time.  Give them some props, they deserve it."
Coach K (Maya HS)

at Verde Vark

In what was not a shock or surprise to Verde Park, was the upset of one of the top teams with an explosive offense, Premier. Verde behind QB Carlos Sanchez ran the ball as well as passed against Premier. For the second week in a row, Premier was shut down and did not score a point. Premier’s offense & defense struggled even with the return of their captain James “Too Tall” Tillmon as well as Markelle "Michael Vicks" Andino. Tre Sessions also tried to assist in stopping Verde Park’s offense. 

Verde would jump on the board with an intersection returned for Touchdown by Rakim Gentry. 6-0. Later Verde would extend that lead with a TD pass from Carlos Sanchez to a diving Leo DeVarro. Two points conversion, good. 14-0. Verde would again add to its commanding lead by Carlos Sanchez TD to Sergio Torres after the fact that the play before Carlos Sanchez would find Leo DeVarro on a deep reception.

At halftime, Premier would find themselves in a hole again. 20-0. Markelle Andino would do his best to get his offense back into the game, finding target Xavier Ybarra several times as well as scrambling to get yards. But Verde would cease Markelle Andino’s efforts by stopping the speedster on a key 4^th down play where Markelle tried to scamble for a 1^st down & was caught by Leo DeVarro.

The second half was all Verde Park, again intersecting Premier, this time by Carlos Sanchez and returning 50 yards for a TD. Two points conversion was picked off by Markelle Andino. 26-0. The game would end with the defeat of Verde Park over Premier 26-0.

Verde behind its soft- spoken offensive line leader James Barnett would protect Carlos Sanchez the second half and not allow any sacks. O- Line proved to be the game’s MVPs… Rakim Gentry, James Barnett, Hector Nunoz.

After the game, Verde’s Coach Rodney had this to say…”The team came ready to work and to put pressure on the QB.” At the half he stressed not to let up and Verde did just that. Verde coach continued to say for the second half, “It was all about running the clock, like Premier, we are a good second half team too, also we just made simple passes.” Verde will be ready for the playoffs, Verde’s coach Rodney will prepare his team by his motto that has carried them this far…”Practice hard every game.”

Both teams meet again next week at Verde in the playoffs.

-Kory Parham

MAYA 34, WESTLAND 0

Maya scored a league record 34 points in the first half and cruised to a win.  The Jaguars finish the season unbeaten, for the second time in three years.   Their defense held opponents to 18 points for the season, 2nd best ever.

VERDE PAK 26, PREMIER 0

Verde switched up and went to the air to clinch a home playoff draw in their 2nd year in Class A. 

Verde Park highlights

Carlos Sanchez threw for 217 two tds and had 2 ints on one return for a td. Leo Navarrow had 4 catches 90 yrd and one td.

This one is for home field advantage.  Last year it was Verde that exposed Premier's weaknesses going into the playoff.  They played the Titans tough on the road two weeks ago, a win today will give them a home game for the first round, probably against Premier....again. 

Verde, looking for a 3rd title appearance in 4 years, looked good last week vs an improving Westland.  The running game looks intact and their passing game is just as good as Premier's.

 Premier has a bad game vs Maya last week.  Back to back lack luster performances, at home, has their season in jeopardy, so pride is on the line.  The Titans have a size advantage, a bit more team speed and they are simply older than Verde. 

It's go time.

These teams will more than likely play each other next week in the playoff's, so they will either play loose or go for it.

Westland is winless, but the playoffs will be like a second season and for the past few years, we've had at least one underdog in the championship.  Last year Verde was a longshot. 

The Scorpions are playing the finale at home, always dangerous for a top seed like Maya.  Both teams ar eon opposite specrums of the standings.  Maya can have it's second unbeated regular season in 3 years.  Westland is trying to win it's first.

MAYA 12, PREMIER 0

Maya beats Premier on the road to clinch the top seed and their second straight regular season title.

VERDE PARK 19, WESTLAND 0 

 Verde Park shuts out Westland in the Ditch to set up a big game vs Premier for home field advantage in the playoffs.

Except for tie games with each other and Verde, both teams are unbeaten.  Maya beat Verde Park easily, Premier had problems with them.  On film and on paper, Premier looked like the class of the league, until last week.  A smaller, stubborn Verde team gave them problems on both sides of the ball.  Premier did manage to shut down the running game, and that is what kept Verde from moving the ball into scoring position twice in the second half.  The Titans may also have the most depth in skill positions players and linemen along with a pretty good mobile quarterback.  They also have great team speed.

Maya has only lost 1 of it's last 15 regular season games.  Maya handles most of it's business on the ground.  They may have the leagues best tandem at running back and a player of the year Canidate in RJ Lovette.  He's been consistant and is probably the leagues top breakaway runner.  Like Premier, Maya is also deep at the skill positions and can throw the ball if they want to.  The Jaguars have a deep line that seems to wear teams down, forcing teams to make mistakes late in the game where Maya ends up with a win or a tie.  Or another championship.

On the outside it looks like two second tier teams are just playing for pride, but on the other side of the coin, there is a lot at stake here.

Its evident that once a league power, Westland has fallen on hard times, but opposing coaches have praised the effort of their line play.  The Scorpions usuually start well, but wear down as the game goes on mostly because the defense is on the field too long.  However, according to Coach K from Maya, they have recently shown signs of life and that can be dangerous for foes as they head into the playoffs as a talented team with nothing to loose.  Plus they are at home for their last two games.

Verde Park has played .500 ball since moving up a class and went to the championship game in their first year of league play.  Not enough in Verde land as they dominated Class B and made several title appearance in the past 7 years.  Only championships count here.  A young team with a quick line, they will be a player if the looser of Maya vs Premier falters down the stretch.  Verde played well against first place Premierlast week with a decent passing game but had a hard time running the ball once they crossed midfield.  Westland presents a similar problem with a large line and athletes in the secondary.  This team can't get caught looking ahead to next week.

Thu 10/15/09 4:45pm

Westland vs. Verde Park

at St. Paul Lutheran Church "THE DITCH"

 Westland is winless, but getting better.  A win at home would be nice.  Verde is still trying to gel by playoff time, a road win is crucial.

Thu 10/15/09 4:45pm

Premier vs. Maya

at Nillo Park (Western Area Regional Park) 83rd Avenue and Bet

 The battle for first place. Both are evenly matched and deep at all positions.  Both have recently won championships.  They tied in their last meeting, now that they are familiar with each other this could be interesting..

VERDE PARK 6, PREMIER 6

On paper, Premier appeared to be too much for Verde Park to match up. Premier featured Markelle Andino at quarterback. M. Andino early on displayed his abilities to run and pass against Verde's defense. Scoring on a pass to another talented youngster who needs no introduction, James "Too Tall" Tillmon. Extra point no good. The two would later switch roles when Tillmon went to the wildcat style offense and hit M. Andino on a deep pass.

Premier defense looked good and sharp behind a newly added player Michael Eshevarria with, count them 4 sacks! Tillmon would get in the action as well adding 1 of his 2 sacks on the day.

Just when you thought the momentum was all Premier, here came Verde Park. Guillermo Barreras picked off M. Andino and Verde offense lead by quarterback Carlos Sanchez would run using rising prospect Jonathan Montoya with his quick feet, contributed to keeping pressure off Verde's quarterback Carlos Sanchez. C Sanchez has established a new target in WR Michael Peru, hitting the WR for a touchdown mid-way through the 1st half of play. Extra point was no go.

Premier and Verde Park rolled into the half tied 6-6.

Verde Park tried to kick the second half off with trickery by running a reverse that fell short of a gain. Later "Too Tall" Tillmon would blitz for a surprise sack, coming from the corner position to showcase his speed to Verde Park's qb C. Sanchez.

Both teams for most of the game was a stand- still battle with both sides unable to get an advantage on the other. With less than 2 minutes to play, Verde Park's G. Barreras would get a key defensive stop by getting M. Andino before getting a 1st down on a 4th down play. Verde Park defense managed to contained M. Andino most of the second half, sacking him 3 times and hurried him to several incomplete passes. While Premier's defense in the final minute struggle to contain a now mobile Verde Park's C. Sanchez who scrambled to get several key yards or hit his favorite target M. Peru. C. Sanchez showed great poise by utilizing the sideline and stopping the clock. 

In the end, Premier's defense would wake up and lock down Verde Park's attempt to upset the favored team in the match up, ending the game deadlocked at 6-6. Both teams battled yesterday and proved "Any Given Thursday" can be anyone's game. 

Coach Kory

Verde Park Highlights

Juan Sandoval 5 tackles and 2 sacks and the playmaker g

Guillermo Berearras 2int

Carlos sanchez throw for 227yrds 1 td gabriel lujan 5 catches 108yrds 

Micheal Peru 4 catches 101yrds and td 

Johnthan Gonzales 4 rushes for 47yds

Premier is loaded.  At least 5 guys canmake plays at the skill positions and the leagues hottest quarterback in Markel Andino.  Big James Tillmon, Angel Carbajal, Jamie Thorton, Johnny Garner and Trey Sessions have all made multiple big plays this season.  All also play defense.  The line is anchored by Tillmon, Michael Echeverria, Jacob Maestas and a strong supporting cast and just as deep as the skill positions.  It's also their home opener.

Verde has to shake off an embassasing home loss to Maya.  Getting shut out at home is almost unheard of at Verde, but they are still in the hunt for a middle seed at the least.  Guillermo Barreras had 189 passing for two td's vs Westland, but none of that vs Maya, seemed to be developing at quarterback. Jordan Jackson Sergio Torres, Michael Peru, Gabrial Luhon & Terrance Gentry are their top play makers.  They also have a solid pass rush led by Rhakim Gentry, James Barnett and Juan Sandavol.  A good showing at Premier is mandatory as Verde will not sneak up on anyone this season. 

Maya Highlights

Maya's first posession drove down the field and Alex DeLeon complete a 15 yard swing pass to RJ Lovett for a touchdown-Failed conversion.

MAYA 36, WESTLAND 6

Maya rolls on in home victory or visiting Westland.  Maya Coach K says "Watch out, this team is getting better and they are better than the score".  Maya improves to 2-0-2 and has a hold on second place and an eye on a second straight top seed.

Westland's Coach, Diana Martin agreed, adding that "Manny Dyer ran about 50 yards.  Raul Hernandez did a great job at quarter back.  Our line also improved...."
 

Tuesday nite football.  It's mid season and both teams are trying to set themselves up for the playoffs.  It's the first meeting of the year between these two and there is a lot at stake.

An improving Westland is hoping it's passing game can come together.  They have a good defensive line and a tenacious pass rush, battale tested after chasing around Premier's Andino twice this season.  Playing for pride, Westland needs a god showing because it could that they would see Maya in the playoffs first round.

 Maya defense came up big at Verde Park last week and Alex Deleon had a big day with a TD pass and a key interception.  Nick DeLeon had a good game at running back and Carlos Perez had two big sacks.  Second place Maya needs this win to have a shot at the regular season title and a first seed.

PREMIER 32, WESTLAND 0

Talented and fast, Premier goes up 21-0 at the half and cruises to victory.  The game was deadlocked until midway through the first half as Westland's defensive line gave Premier fits.  The Titans returned the favor as their line made life touch on Westland quarterbacks.  Two Adino touchdown passes and a 50 yard run off tackle put Premier up.Premier hosts Verde Park next week, then a rematch with Maya at home on the 15th.  Westland is at Maya next week.

MAYA 19, VERDE PARK 0

Maya goes into Verde Park and spanks last years runners upon the road. Verde never recovered from early turnovers and it was downhill from there in a rare home losss.  Maya is at Westland next week.  Verde travels to first place Premier.

Here we go again.

Verde-Maya "5".

Maya makes its first trip to Verde Park.  In what has become one of the leagues best rivalries, a game at Verde will dictate if it's a rivalry or just a stop or another trip to the championship for both teams. 

Maya is is fresh off yet another tie game.  So far their stingy defense and experience line has sustained them.  Brealaway back RJ Lovette averages over 100 yards on the ground.  He's also scored twice from 60 yards out.  The Jaguar passing game is still a work in progress, but the talent is there.  Defensively, they have a great balance as they have one of the leagues best pas rushers in Michael Edison and a smart secondary.  They definitely showed and proved against explosive Premier.

Verde Park wants to restore the mystique they once had.  A place where they can't be beat.  It's been a while, but now would be the time.  As usual, they run inside & out and their passing game opened up last week against Westland.  They have two good quarterbacks, but last week, they were at their best, looking sharper than ever. Playing Verde Football.

This should be a good one. 

These two met at "The Ditch" for the past few years, but Premier has moved on.  On their way, they did manage to beat Westland 26-0 as a going away gift.  Westland would like nothing better to return the favor at Premier's home opener.

This is a tale of two teams.  Westland is obviously rebuilding, but it's on the job training and the players see to be progressing.  Athletic and talented enough, the Scorpians hope to get it together starting now and carry on to the playoffs, much like a slow starting Verde Park did in 2008.

Premier is once again loaded.  With a revamped weight room and a reloaded roster, this may be Coach Nillo's fastest team ever.  Maybe the leagues fastest?  Nah, that would be Estrella's team of 2007.  But The Titans do boast one of the leagues best running games and the top quarterback in this early season.

Showtime starts at 4:45.

VERDE PARK 20, WESTLAND 0

Jordan Jackson's interception & return 50 yards deep in to Westland territory broke a deadlock, sparking Verde to a scoring drive and a shutout win over Westland.  Defenses dominated earlier, but after the interception the home team (Verde) began to separate themselves.

MAYA 6, PREMIER 6

Defending champ Maya hasn't lost a game yet.  They haven't won a game either.  Playing at Home, the Jaguars host another tough opponent, Premeir tied their second straight game.  RJ Lovette, on of the leagues the leagues top rushers, scored on a 60 yard run on the opening drive.  Premier came right back, driving down the field with quarterback Markel Andino tossing a 2yd TD Pass to Macerio Lopez.  Andino leagues the league with 4 TD passes.

At The Ditch.

 Athleticism, speed and working out in a news fitness room seems to have paid off, at least on opening day, for the Premier.  Last years favorites to win it all (lost in playofs) seem to be on a mission.

Premier Highlights 

Titans: 70 yd screen catch and run Xavier Ybarra (Transfer from Trevor Brown, possibly fastest in league) from Markel Andino

Titans: 10 yd pass to John Garner from Markel Andino

Titans:  5 yd pass to "Tre Duce" Sessions from Markel Andino

Titans:  10 yd INT return for James Tillman Tight End...shoe string catch 2 pt conversion - 5 yd pass to Angel Carbajal back left corner of endzone of a rear naked rollout by quarterback Markel

MAYA 6, VERDE PARK 6

The first AAC Kickoff classic between last seasons championship rivals Verde Park & Maya ends in a tie.  Both teams running games were in sync as both return key members from their lines and experienced quarterbacks.  On the other hand, recievers & defensive backs were a little rusty, dropping several passes & interceptions. 

Until the last 3 minutes of the game & like last years championship, most of the battle took place between the 20s as both teams had problems getting into the red zone.  That changed in the last minites of the games as both teams responded and scored after turnovers.

Thu 10/1/09 4:45pm

Verde Park vs. Maya

Verde Park

Thu 10/1/09 4:45pm

Westland vs. Premier

83rd ave & Camelback (park)

 

MAYA & VERDE PARK REMATCH SET, PREMEIR TAKES ON WESTLAND AT THE DITCH 

Maya, 2008 AAAC football champions, will host Verde Park in the Annual kickof classic at La Parada Park on 39th ave & Glendale on the September 17th.  Last fall, Maya beat Verde in one of the leagues most exciting championship games ever.  Both teams are once again loaded/  Verde's running game remains intact and Maya returns it's entire line.  Should be interesting.

 At "The Ditch", traditional rivals Westland & Premier face of at 445pm.  Premier won the 2007 title and were favorites in 2008.  Westland is usually competetive, but they have never won a title.

AAC Players get better by playing the summer circuit

Coached by 2009 League Champion Hope Academy Coach Shaun Simpson, AAC players team up with Murphy District students and neighbor hood high school players have combined to form a competetive summer league basketball team.

 Sponsored by Coach Mo SportsGroup and various pro football players the team will compete in summer league tournements.

Stay tuned for more.

 Join Us www.basketball.coachmo.com or www.eteamz.com/coachmobasketball

HOPE ACADEMY 28, MAYA HIGH SCHOOL 22

Hope Academy overcame a sluggish start and a tough Maya Jaguars team to win it's first league championships.  Unbeaten, and the regular season champs, Hope's athleticisim and timely shooting overcame any shortcommings 

Tied at 13 in the second half, the teams were still stalemated until a timely three pointer by Maya out them up 18-15.  Maya held a 21-16 lead at one point until Hope stormed back to tied it behind 4 staight points from Josh Taylor.  Wilmont's corner shot put Hope up at the 2 minute mark and and he hit another to put Hope up 27-21.

Hope vs Maya in the boys championship game

6:45 at Garcia School

Top seed and unbeaten Hope Academy advanced to their first league title with a win over defending champion Premier.  A perennial contender and always stocked with talent, Premier went though the season without a loss.  Led by the leagues all-time leading scorer, Josh Taylor (leagues all time leading scorer) and Jasper Jones, the team has a deep supporting cast. The front line is extremely talented and 5 deep.  The back court is big and just as fast.  At times Taylor and Jones rotate at the point or shooter, creating mismatches.

 Maya, younger, advanced after holding off a late charging Westland.  Maya flew below the radar most of the season and then, playing inspired basketball made their move in the playoffs.   Senior Thomas Martinez, an all-league football player, is the veteran leader of the group.  He can score and cover the oppositions best player.  Vest, Acost and Jimenez play supporting roles but are equally as important.

At one point, Hope seemed unbeatable and Maya was in the cellar.  Now it's go time!!

PREMIER 14, WESTLAND 10

After a slow start early in the season, Premier got it tother in the second half of the season and coasted to their first girls championship.

HOPE 37, PREMIER 31

Hope held off two comebacks by a relentless Premier team to advance to their first championship game.  Premier fought back to lead 4 times during the game, but mistakes and Hope's depth proved to be the key factor.  John Taylor scored 14 points and Jasper Jones added 10 as Hope's balanced attack and multiple weapons proved to be too much for the defending champions.

MAYA 26, WESTLAND 23

Westland had a chance to win on the final possesion but it was not to be as Maya made clutch free throws and played stellar defense beating Westland.

Girls Score

PREMIER 9, WESTLAND 5

 White scores 7 points to lead Premier.  The two teams meet next Tuesday in the girls title game.

WESTLAND 40 , MAYA 37

Down 15-14 at the half, Westland scored the first 6 points in the second half to take the lead over a younger Maya.   In a battle for second place, Maya didn't back down.  The teams traded baskets and the score was 37-34 with 25 seconds left.  Matt Schatzabels free throws down the strectch put the game out of reach.

HOPE 28, PREMIER 25

Bigger faster Hope Academy jumped out 16-2 and led 21-7 at the half.  In the second half, Premier stormed back with a 13-5 run and trailed 26-20 with 41 seconds left.  With 14 Sikes connected on a three pointer as the gap was closed to 26-23.  Josh Taylors clutch free throws made it 28-25 with seven ticks left and iced the win.  Premier had a shot as time ran out but the attempt failed.

WESTLAND 26, PREMIER 24

Premier led thoughout and was ahead 24-12 with three minutes left, but a hard charging Westland tied things up with 40 seconds left.  A Matt Schatzabel three point shot made the comeback complete, shocking defending champion Premier 26-24.  Emmanuel Dyer made a layup as time ran out and Westland upsets Premier.

The key point was a strange one.  Premier's James Tillmon block a Westland shot at the 4 minute mark.  Undetered, Westland went on 14-0 run.  Westland's Dyer led all scorers with 9 points, including two three pointers.  Alverado added 7 points and 4 rebounds.  Premier 's Wright, Andino & Tillmon had 6 points each.  Tillmon had a game high 7 rebounds.

Log jam 

 Premier's loss created a log jam in the leagues standings with Westland, Premier & Maya all at 2-3.  Hope Academy has clinched the regular season title and first seed.

March Madness

On the 23rd, Hope takes on Premier.  With first place in hand, this is a tune-up for the Doves.    I win will give Premier a #2 or 3 seed.  Westland & Maya are also fighting for the top seed.  The #4 seed will play Hope in the tournament on 2 March.

Girls picture depends on the status of Maya's team.  Premier & Westland are clearly the top two teams.  The girls elimination round will start March 2. 

All-star's?

A decision on the all-star game will made this week.  The game would be played  next Tuesday or Wednesday.  The boys teams would be 5each  from Hope & Maya (East) vs  Westland & Premier.  We may also have a coed game with the starters from the girls teams mixed with a selection of two boys from each team. 

Coaches, I will ned your selections by Thursday at www.coachmo@coachmo.com

Girls

Premier 16, Maya 3

White, Gomez & Martinez did all the scoring for Premier.  Martinez & White combined for 10 rebounds.  White had 5 steals, Hughes 4.  Levant was the highlight for Maya with 10 rebounds.

Boys 

Maya 24, Premier 21 

Maya was down 8-1 in the first 8 minutes, but led 12-10 at the half.  The second half was all Maya.  Their balanced scoring attack was led by Edison's 10 points.  Thomas Martinez added 7.    Edison also had 6 rebounds.  Premier came on strong in the last minute to make it close, but the Jaguars held on.  Premier's James Tillmon scored 12 points to lead all scorers.  Tillmon also had 8 rebounds.

Boys

Hope 27, Westland 21
Hope led throughout and with faster & superior athletes, the Doves cruise to a win over Westland.  The Scorpians tried fighting back and closed to with in 6 in the end, but it was too little, too late.  Both teams pressed each other all night, but Hope committed fewer turnovers and dominated the boards.
Stewert, Taylor and Jones combined for most of Hope's scoring.  Hope's 32-14 edge in rebounding was the diference.  Taylor & Martinez each had 7.  Westland's Dyer had a game high 11 points.

Girls

Maya 8, Westland 3
In the leagues first major upset of the season, defending champion Maya took down Westland 8-3.  Maya had a 27-8 edge in rebounding.  

NEWS 

Game Time 

Our game times will now be at 7pm & 735.  Starting in February, game nite will be Monday nights, to include the Championship game. Contact Coach Mo for more details (480) 217-0175.

 Player Rosters

In accordance with our bylaws, after the King Day Holiday, there are no players roster additions.  No exceptions.  Students must have transferred or been added prior to 19 January as per our bylaws and conversations the weeks prior.

March Madness 

Our playoffs will take place the first two weeks of March. 

Spring sports 

After basketball, we hope to offer Monday or Wednesday nite co-ed Softball.  Let me know if your school is interested.

Spring Football

In an effort to submit for tackle football next year, potential participants will need to compete in our April/May passing league and linemen technique camps.  Stay tuned for more information.

Girls

WESTLAND 18, MAYA 5

Westland tallied 15 steals, led by Linsey Reynolds 7, in a win over Maya.   Elisa Hernandez led all with 8 points. Brooks led Maya with 5 rebounds.  Levant led Maya with a game high 8 rebounds.

MAYA 38, WESTLAND 35

Westland was down by as more than 10, twice  but battled back to within 5 twice and was down 20-15 at halftime.  Matt Schatzabel, the leagues leading three point shooter and top scorer, kept the the Scorpion's in the game.  Maya played relatively mistake free basketball and did some hot 3 point shooting of their own.   In the second half, things heated up and Westland was within 3 with under a minute to play but could not convert on layup & free throw opportunities.

Girls results

WESTLAND 20, PREMIER 16

In a battle of front runners, Elisa Hernandez sank clutch free throws to lead Westland to victory over Premier.  Brown & Young combined for 14 points to lead Premier.  Brown also had 6 rebounds and 3 steals.  Hernandez led all scorers with 12 points.  Adriana Ruiz had 7 rebounds and 4 steals for Westland.

 Boys results

HOPE 40, PREMIER 26

In a matchup with the leagues top two teams, Hope asserted themselves.  Hope jumped out to a 12-2 lead and led thoughout in a wn over Premier.  Premier closed the score to within 5 three times, but the Doves pulled away utilizing a full court press. Levi Hill and Josh Taylor had 9 points each to lead Hope. 

WESTLAND 18, MAYA 10

Allison Hardy (8), Lindsey Reynolds (6) and Adriana Ruiz (4) did al the scoring for Westland.  Playing with 4 girls for part of the game, Westland won the rebound game and stole the ball seemingly at will.  Hardy has a game high 14 rebounds.  Ruiz had 7 steals.

HOPE 28, MAYA 21 

Both teams started a little slow, but after shaking off the holiday dust, this was actually a good game.  Maya went up 11-8 on a clutch three pointer by Russell Vest but Hope battled back to tie at 11, 13 & 15. At the 4 minute mark Hope got it's run on and was in the lead 23-19.  Vest closed the score 23-21 on a clutch layup.   That was it for Maya, Hope held on and won 28-21.

Girls

Premier 4, Maya 2

Brown scored 3 of Premier's 4 points.

Boys

Hope 62, Maya 29

Hope came out gunning, shooting well from the field and Maya never recovered.  Josh Taylor had 20 points, 6 rebounds and 5 steals for Hope.  Hill (7 rebounds) & Jones added 12 each and Mason had 8.  Roy Grigsby (7) and Thomas Martinez (6) were high scorers for Maya.  Edison had a game high 8 rebounds.

Premier  35, Westland 32 

Westland led for most of the game.  Down 26-20 at the 4 minute mark, Premier outscored Westland 13-6 to take the lead 33-32 with 30 seconds left.  James Tillman's free throws with 13 seconds left iced the game for thr Titans.  Matt Schatzabel scored 13 points, with three 3 point goals.  Roman Alvarado added 8.  Dyer had 6 assists, Rodgers 6 rebounds.  The Titans were paced by Adino (9 points), Sykes (8), Tillman (7) and Flores (6) points. 

MONDAY'S GAMES

Girls

Mon 12/15/08 6:30pm

MAYA (G) vs. PREMIER (G)

Garcia School

Boys

Maya vs Hope

Both teams lost close games last week.  Maya treed to come back but came up short vs Premier.  Hope lost a heart breaker to Westland, but rebounded in a win over Summit.  Both teams match up well with similar height and speed. 

Premier vs Westland

Both teams are located just down the road from each other and this is one of the leagues top rivaliers.  Westland has a few player back from last year including three point specialist Matt Schatzabel.  Premier, as usual, is loaded with talent.  Center James Tillman was a beast on the boards last week and had 14 points.

The 2008 AAAC Boy's season got off to an interesting start.  Premier, looking more athletic and faster than ever held off a late charging Maya.  Westland beat Hope on a free throw.  Hope outlasted Summitt in the nightcap.  In all, it was one of our better opening nights.

WESTLAND 29, HOPE INTERNATIONAL 28

Manny Dyer's free throw with no time left on the clock kept Westland out of over time in a win over Hope.  Matt Shatzabel, one of the league all-time three point shooter, made 3 and scored  11 points for the Scorpions.  Matt also had a game high 5 rebounds.  Dyer was 4 of 7 at the free throw line and finished with 7 points.  Levi Hill led Hope with 10 points and 4 rebounds, Josh Taylor had  7 points and 3 steals.

PREMIER 25, MAYA 23

Premier's athleticisim and height overcame Maya's balanced scoring and held off the Jaguars.  Premier's James Tillman had 13 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals to lead Premier.  Thomas Sykes added 7 points and four rebounds. 

HOPE 19, SUMMIT 16

In on-league action, Hope 's Josh Tayor had 11 points, including three 3 pointers in a win over Summit.   

MAYA 6, VERDE PARK 0

3 time All-AAC defensive back Thomas Martinez had 5 interceptions and the scored the game winning touchdown in the thhird overtime, as Maya wins it's first AAC football championship.   Quarterback Jay Jay Tuafano stepped in and fired a 10 yard scoring toss on the games final play.  Martizez also had his hands on two more passes, but came up short, but Maya held off a relentless Verde Park team 6-0.

Fourth times the charm.  Maya had loss three other championship games.  Verde Park has played in 5, last winning in 2005.

As in last weeks semifinal, it was the secondaries that dictated the flow of the game, and it was a far fetched idea that the game would be won on a pass play.  Maya had 6 interceptions (Omar Acosta had won and nearly ran it back) and Verde Park had 6.  Both teams had decent running games, but defenses stiffened in the red zone, as both offenses were turned away at least twice on red zone scoring drives. 

At the end of the second half, all-AAC running back Roy Grigsby appeared to be wearing down Verde's defense.  He ran for well over 100 yards, gaining most in the second half.  Verde's equalizer was a tremendous pass rush that shut down Maya's passing games.

Maya 's Jaguar's, the regular season league champs take on Verde Park in the AAC's 6th championships game.  It's winner take all, a nice trophy and some neat medals... for the champion.  Whoever it may be.

Maya ran through the league with ease for the most part, to include a 14-6 win over Verde.  That was pretty much a different look for both teams.  Maya has used several different quaterbacks since.  Verde, has pretty much had a stable lineup and is vastly inproved since that October first meeting.

Maya has been in the championship before, last season and two years ago.  Verde went on a title run from 2004-2006, winning the Class B title in 2005.  They won 3 of 5 city championship appearances.

No former Class B Team has ever won a Class A championship.

Maya abd Verde both are loaded with Talent.  Verde uses two backs mainly with a young fullback.  All run well.  Verde also has the leagues best pair of recievers in Jordan Jackson & Gabrial Luhon.  Quarterback Guillermo Barrelas is the leagues top passer by far and leads in votes for player of the year.  Jackson & Luhon also give Verde a pretty tough secondary.  Maya is led by Roy Grigsby, easily the leagues leading rusher and another MVP canidate.  Skill players Omar Acosta, Joe Rodriquez and returning all AAC player Thomas Martinez are al staunch defenders and make up the leagues best secondary.  They effectively shut down the Verde air attack last month.

It will pretty much come down to the war in the trenches, just like last weeks semifinal. All-league nominees James Crosslin (Verde Park), Jose Romos (Verde Park), Chris Colburn (Maya) Rakim Gentry (Verde Park), Michael Edison (Maya) & Marcos Lopez (Verde Park) will all get a chance to prove who is all league on the line on Wednesday.

Word has it that scouts from the Copper League (Spring Adult Tackle Footbal) will be on hand to look for talent.

Arizona Cardinals starting guard Duece Lutui got his start as a amateur player before moving on to Scottsdale college, USC and the NFL.

See the article below for more on spring football.

Coaches, referee's please send the following via email to coachmo@coachmo.com before next Tuesday.......

LINEMEN

James Crosslin (Verde Park)Jose Romos (Verde Park), Chris Colburn (Maya) Joseph Johnson (Premier), "Smiley" Castellanos (Westland), James Melton  (Westland), Danny Allendar (Westland),  Xavier Hernandez (Westland), Estaban Flores  (Westland), Jay Jay Tuafano (Maya), Kevin Francis, Jesse Trujillo  (Westland)

PASS RUSHERS

Rakim Gentry (Verde Park), Michael Edison (Maya), Jay Jay Tuafano (Maya), Victor Oscuna (Premiere), Marcos Lopez (Verde Park)

DEFENSIVE BACKS

John Valez (Westland), Cameron Carter (Premiere), Roman Alvarado (Westland), Omar Acosta (Maya), Jordan Jackson (Verde Park), Gabral Luhon (Verde Park), Thomas Martinez (Maya), Joseph Rodriquez (Maya), Matt Shatzabel (Westland), Manny Dyer (Westland

RECEIVERS

John Valez (Westland), Jordan Jackson (Verde Park), Gabral Luhon (Verde Park), Albert Brownnell (Maya),  Joseph Rodriquez (Maya), Manny Dyer (Westland)

RUNNING BACKS

Roy Grixby (Maya),  Roman Alvarado (Westland), Ulisses Hernandez (Verde Park), Fernando Hernandez (Verde Park)

TIGHT END

Matt Schatzabel (Westland), Victor Oscuna (Premiere), Junior Getry (Verde Park)

QUARTERBACK

Matt Schatzabel (Westland), Roman Alvarado (Westland), Jay Jay Tuafano (Maya), Guillermo Barrelas (Verde Park)

ATHLETE

COACH OF THE YEAR:  

Coach K (Maya), Diana Martin (Westland), Rodney Crossin (Verde Park)

At "The Ditch" 

VERDE PARK 7, WESTLAND 0

It was a hard fought win.  But it was a win.  In an old school "3 yards and a cloud of dust" run dominated semifinal, Verde Park scored on a reciever screen to advance to the championship game next week.

 With two of the league best secondaries and the leagues top two defensive backs on patrol, neither team had much success tring to throw the ball.  Verde did, however, have an advantage in the passing game, but penalties nullified any significant gains.

In the end, both teams stood their groud and the defensive line on both squads determined the outcome.  A 50 yard sideline screen was the difference.

TEAMS GEAR UP FOR CHAMPIONSHIP RUN

 

Wed 11/3/08 430pm

Verde Park (2-3) vs. Westland (2-2-1)

At "The Ditch"

With Premier out of the picture, it comes down to a showdown at the Ditch and the winner gets to face regular season champion and top seed Maya.  Westland has had it's way in two wins with a combined scored of 36-18, a shut out and an embarrasing spanking of Verde in their own back yard.  The scorpians are looking for their first championship appearance since the 2006 loss to Thunderbird.  They have a good line and talented skill players on offense and defense with several players back from last year.

 Verde has shown improvement from it's opening games and now are a legit contender, based on the fact that they have been to 4 championships, winning three.  They are also stacked with skill players includung the leagues top passer, running back and receiving tandem.  Add to that a good blocking scheme and  a scary pass rush.  Coach Crossin also has the leagues longest tenure as a head coach.

.

WESTLAND 6, MAYA 6

Highlights 
Westland

-Roman Alavardo for westland made an interception at the 30 yd line(?)
-Manny Dyer for westland made a long run to make a first down 
tightend Matt Sholtzable ran the pass in the touhdown that tied the game
In the last few seconds of the game an interceptino caught by Maya offense thrown by westlands Manny Dyer

Excellent lineman plays by Defense Smiley, Xavier Hernandez, Jesse Truillo
Exceptional defenseive plays by Roman Alavardo
Xaiver & Jesse had excellent sacks throughout the game

VERDE PARK 14, PREMIER 6

Highlights, big plays....

Premier won the toss and elected to start off on offense. While neither team could move the ball on two possessions each, Verde Park methodically came at Premier with the quarterback using  hard counts and running straight at the confused defense of Premier wearing them down until the fourth possession and 4 1/2 minutes left to the half.  Verde Park began to strike with the quarterback handing off for runs up the middle of 3yds, 3yds and once the defense was softened Verde passed for 16yds and a lot of clock time keeping themselves alive and the ball moving. Once Premier adjusted to the passing game, Verde's QB kept the ball and found effective runs of 7yds, 5yds and 8yds with 2min left in double I formation Verde QB handed off to the running back twice straight at defense for  6yds each time then Verde's QB over the middle found a receiver for the first touchdown of the game, then they proceeded to convert for an extra point.  Premier's QB receiving the ball with 1:19 left decided to pull the ball down and scrambled in the flat for 4yds, on the next play Premier's QB hit #69 - Cameron Carter midfield for a break away touchdown, but they failed to complete the conversion. Verde Park(7) vs. Premier(6)

Renee

Verde Park beat Premier at home 18-6 two weeks ago.  Now they must go on the road to takeon the Titans.  Premier, playing without oneof it's best players, beat Maya last week on the road, so they come in with some momentum and a motivated defense.  Verde lost a rare home game after being up 18-6, they fell to Westland for the second time this season.  A must win game for both as the looser could end up as the last seed when the bottom seed when the playoffs start in November.

MAYA 19, WESTLAND 6

VERDE PARK 18, PREMIER 6

Verde Park used it's usual run, pass, play action offense, in their win over Premier high school.  The same offense that helped them win three Class B state championships and 4 city titles.  The same offense that capitalizes on their opponents mistakes.  The same offense that was 0-2 going into this game.

Markel Akino had an interception early in the first half in what looked like a probable mismatch.  The very next play Jordan Jackson picked off his league leading 5th pass for Verde.  Soon afterwards Gabrial Luhan caught a TD pass after a play action fake to put Verde ahead early.

A few plays later, Jiles Austin caught a 30 yard pass after a Verde Player tipped the pass to tie the score.  From that point, both teams threatened a lot, but the both failed to capitalize.  Austin had another 35 yard catch late in the half, but Verde stopped Premier in the red zone.  Verde took control and drove the length of the field and cashed in on another Luhan touchdown catch to go up 12-6.  Verde held on to win 19-6.

www.coachmo.com

MAYA 19, WESTALND 6

Shortstaffed Maya ran the ball, played keep away and held of Westland 19-6.  Running back Roy Grigsby, the league's top rusher, carried the load for Maya and had an interception for the Jaguars.

Maya hosts Premier next week.

Westland is at Verde Park next week.

 VERDE PARK 18, PREMIER 6

The game was much closer than the score.  Verde Park used 3 touchdown passes to overcome Premier. Both teams dropped a lot of passes, but Verde's quarterback had a great passing day.

Verde Park hosts Westland next week.

Premier is at Maya next week.

Video and in depth game coverage and video to come.....

WESTLAND AT MAYA

One of our longer rivalries rivalries has Westland (1-1) on the road against unbeaten Maya (2-0).  The teams boast the leagues biggest and most experienced lines.

Maya:  The Jaguars have the leagues best pass protection and return all-AAU quarterback Luis Guerrero and blue chip reciever/defensive back Thomas Martinez.  Add to that a solid running game and you have a team that simply keeps the ball.  An athletic & quick secondary adds balance to a solid defense.

Westland:  The Scorpian line corps gets a chance to show they are just as good, if not better, than Maya's.  Led by big thre year starter Esteban Flores, Westland has a ball control offense of their own.  Quarterback Roman Alvarado has connected in the clutch with tight end Matt Schtzabel and fleet WR/DB John Valez.  Westland's secondary may be the leagues quickest.

PREMIER AT VERDE PARK

This will be interesting as the Verde Park welcoming commitee get a visit from one of their own former stars, Premier quarterback Angel Carbajal.

Premier:  The Titan's lost a heart breaker in the opener against Maya.  Carbajal's relationship with his recievers is getting better.  It needs to, led by Jiles Austin (2007 offensive player of the year), Premier has a great group of fast skill players.  Protecting the quarterback has to be a priority.

Verde Park:  With midseason approaching, it's time for Verde can show that they are in the right league in the first half.  The patended Verde running game by committe has been at best, servicable. if they can get the passing game in gear watch out.  Solid on defense, Verde is always tough at home. 

MAYA 14, VERDE PARK 6

Maya won the toss and opted to receive. It took 2 1/2 minutes of Maya offense to score the first touchdown of the game. Maya using the very effective I-formation most of the game only using two sweeps #11 - Jay Jay of Maya was able to catch Verde's defense and connected w/#83. On the conversion Jay Jay hit #7 - Joe for an extra point. Verde Park received the ball and could not overcome the crushing defense of Maya. Maya's Offensive line was just as strong and protected the quarterback for a Jay Jay to Albert pass of 25 yds midfield which he quickly turned into another touchdown.  Once again #11 - Jay Jay found #7 - Joe for an extra point. Verde tried everything to get their first 1st down, but was no match for the oversized Maya defensive line.  They were caught in the backfield on two of the four possesions.  Making it hard to obtain a first down, the ball was once again turned over to Maya w/2 minutes left they tried to capitalize.  ButJay Jay was intercepted 25 yds down the field, breathing life and hope into Verde Park.  Verde finding the slant route a little effective moved the ball found 10 yds and 9 yds.  But it was not enough and the ball was Maya's once again w/ :06 left on the clock.  14(maya) - 0(verde)

Verde needing a quick strike at the beginning of the half tried running the ball straight at Maya gaining 24 yds and catching #44 - Thomas Verde outran Maya down the sideline for an air assaulting 40 yd touchdown. But was unable to convert the extra point. Maya, stunned was not able to have the same success as the first half as Verde began to see the plays unfolding in front of them and the ball was returned to Verde.  With new life and confidence, Verde Park tried another pass, while looking for an open receiver Verde's QB was steamrolled by Jay Jay of Maya for a loss of 6yds. On a sneak, catching the Maya defense and coaching staff off guard; Verde ran a center keeper ahead for 9 yds. But it ended there and the ball was returned to Maya who moved and controlled the clock for the next 7minutes before a turnover sent the ball back to Verde with :26 left before the end of the game.  Verde Parks quarterback doing what he had been all game scrambling to keep them alive found  receiver 16yds but it was just not enough.  14(maya) - 6(verde)

 

 Renee Small

PREMIER 8, WESTLAND 7

Jiles Austin picked off a Westland pass early in the first hald and returned it 30 yards deep into Scorpion territory, but on the very next play John Velez intercepted a pass intended for Jiles.  These two (maybe the top two athletes in the league early in the season) went at it all game long.

Westland's running game was stalled, but they found gaps in the Titans defense as quarterback Roman Alvarado hit tight end Matt Schatzabel on key pass plays late in the first half. 

In the second half, Westland continued to move the ball with short passes to Shatzabel and their slot backs.  Then just when Premier slowed the tight end pass, Alvarado connected with Velez on a 30 yard touchdown pass on a go route.  The extra point was good.

11 minutes into the second half, Premier's defense stiffened and stalled Westland's short passing game.  An interception by Cameron Carter put Premier in scoring position. After a short drive, Austin went 45yards on a run to make the score 7 to 6.  The two point conversion gave The Titans the lead with 7 minutes left.  The conversion, caught by Markel Anbino (from Angel Carbajal) proved to be the difference in the game as Westland was not able to capitalize on opportunities.

Mo-

MAYA 14, VERDE PARK 6

PREMIER 8, WESTLAND 7

Highlights & pictures later this evening & first thing in the morning

Wed 10/1/08 4:30pm - 5:30pm

Westland vs. Premier

at St. Paul Lutheran Church "THE DITCH"

 Defending champ Premier was slowed by Maya's powerful rush in an opening day losss, at home.  And here comes Westland, another teams with a big, fast line. The Scorpions also return a ton of talent.  Don't get it twisted, Premier is probably the leagues fastest team and is very athletic.  Quarterback Angel Carbajal won city & state titles with Class B Verde Park in junior high, now he has to learn to connect with last year's offensive player of the year Jiles Austin.

 

Wed 10/1/08 4:30pm - 5:30pm

Maya vs. Verde Park

at La Parada Park

(La Parada Park is located at 39th ave and Glendale Avenue, we meet as the park's west end turf field)

Maya's big, fast line was more than a match for Premier.  Now they take on Class A newcomer Verde Park.  Verde proved they could run as they established a decent run game against Westland.  The former Class B power will have to get the passing game going against a veteran Maya team.  No easy task on the road.  Maya is rough and ready.  Led by a a returning 3 year started at quarterback in Luis Guerrerro and an all-league reciever/defensive back Thomas Martinez.

WESTLAND 16, VERDE PARK 0

Westland opened their season with Class A new comer Verde Park, a former Class B power.  The smaller Verde Park team was able to get their running game going early, but in this league you need balance, and their line was outmanned.  Westland has at least 8 returning starters and their experience showed.    Westland was able to better mix run, pass and play action and their defenders stayed home for the most part.  John Velez intercepted a pass and on the next play caught a 25 yard TD pass from Matt Schatzabel. 

 Highlights: 

Westland:  Jessie Jurillo had a sack.  John Velez had an iterception.

Verde Park:  Jordan Jackson had an interception.

MAYA 8, PREMIER 0

Maya didn't like starting the season on the road, but the defending champs always host the runners up in the season opener.  In the kickoff classic's late game, Maya beat defending champion Premier at Premier's home field.  Both teams return key players but Maya's offensive & defensive lines controlled the game with power and finesse.  The game was pretty much a stalemate until Maya was able to cash in on a rushing touchdown late in the first half.  Another key in Maya's win was thier ability to run at will and run out the clock they did.  Double teaming deep threat Jiles Austin and keeping a steady rush on new Premier QB Angel Carbajal was another key factor.  The two did, however, connect on a 35 yard pass play early in the game, but the drive stalled. 

Highlights: 

Maya: Grigsby scored on a 5 yard run.  Maya's offensive live provided great pass protection.  The defensive line was relentless in pursuing Premier's quarterback.

Premier: Angel Carbajal had an intereption.

Class A football starts in mid-September. So far the defending champion Premier Titans have committed to play there home games at the "ditch" on 65th avenue & Indian School. Westland high school will also play home games there. 2007 runners up Maya high school will play their home games at the city park located at 31st ave & Glendale.   Verde Park home games are held on 12th street & Van Buren.

Member Schools:  Premier, Maya, Westland, Verde Park

Premier & Westland high schools will host Maya & newcomer Verde Park at the ditch on 24 September.  The opening game put Westland against former Class B power Verde Park with a 430 kickoff.  Verde has won 3 Class B titles and 4 city championships.  Westland returns many of last years starters.

Following the Verde/Westland matchup, last season's top two teams, Premier & Maya, face off.  Like Westland, Maya as a fair amount of returning players.  Premier has been in the title hunt the last two seasons.

Tenative schedule link

http://www.eteamz.com/aaufootball/schedules/index.cfm?season=532732&division=4875092

 Internships, job opportunities, etc....

Saturday, March 8
GIRLS ALL AAC TEAM

Girls All AAC 

First Team 

Brenalee Sakiestewa (Maya), Jessica Arias (Premier), Bianca Ramirez (Maya), Brittany Lewis (Maya) , Lindsey Reynolds (Westland)

Second Team 

Alison Hardy (Westland), Pricilla  Hansen (Westland), Samantha Chavez (Westland)

Coach Of The Year: Jon Kronstead (Maya high school)

 

Saturday, March 8
BOYS ALL AAC

First Team 

Ryan Nieto-Whitake (Premier), Ricardo Olguin (Jefferson), Tony Delarosa (Maya), Vernon McNeal (Jefferson), Thomas Martinez (Maya), Josh Taylor (Heritage)

Second Team

Julian Westmoreland (Westland), Tim Bellamy  (Jefferson),  Matt Schatzabel (Westland), Shannon Rogers (Westland), Stetson White (Premier), Miquel Morajara (Jefferson), Tevin Kyles (Jefferson)

Coach Of The Year: Andre Nillo (Premier high school)

 

Saturday, March 8
BASKETBALL OPEN GYM

BASKETBALL SHOWCASE LEAGUE SET TO BEGIN OPEN GYM AND SCRIMMAGES AT ART HAMILTON 

Coach Mo SportsGroup is a proud supporter of a basketball showcase league in central Phoenix, at Art Hamilton & Kuban Elementary Schools, open gym gives area players chance to enhance their basketball skills. Players also are afforded the opportunity to play on one of our travel teams.

Especially designed for players of the AAC, our primary goals are to improve the skills of the player on and off court. Our programs, clinics, and tryouts, are open to all players, regardless of skill level. We are driven to provide athletes, parents and coaches a spiritual outlet through sports and to develop within each athlete, strong values and attitudes.

For more on the league, practices and other information, call 480-217-0175 or email us at coachmo@live.com

Join us!!!

 

Wednesday, January 23
Maya Girls Win Title

Bianca Ramirez scored  11 of Maya's 16 points as the Lady Jaguars win their first league championship.  Brenalee Sakiestewa and Shariel Davis combined for 15 rebounds, Monique Huerta added 4.  Maya's Adriana Deletorre had 4 steals.  Juliana Young had a game high 10 rebounds and 5 points for Premier.  Young and Deanna Brown had 4 steals each.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday, January 30
Premier Wins Boys AAC Title

Premier 34, Thomas Jefferson 24

Jefferson jumped out early pressing Premier into costly errors.  The Titans recovered and outscored Jeferson 19-2 after being behind 5-1 and were up 20-9 at the 3 minute mark.  Premier led 22-12 at the half.  Premier refused to let the gap narow in the second half keeping a constant 10 point lead (28-18 with 3:44 remaining) as Jefferson continued to execute poorly, especially shooting and getting into their transition game.  They did however compete to the end of the game.

Tuesday, January 29
Jefferson & Premier For the League Title

Rematch: Jefferson looks to complete a dream season vs rival Premier

Until this year, Jefferson had never beaten Premier.  In fact, it was Premier that escorted Jefferson out of the playoffs last season enroute to the I-10 title.  This year was a little different.  Jefferson completed a two year climb from self imposed probation enroute to becoming a top seed in this year's title game.  Led by Super Bowl ring bearer Derek Kennard ('96 Cowboys), Jefferson had played with a passion, especially on defense.

Premier has won more games than any team in league history.  Returning with the leagues most experienced team and fresh from a championship run last year, is one of the league's top basketball programs.  Coached by Andre Nillo, Premier could be the AAC's first school to title sweep as they have have already won the football championship.  Premier seems to have all the advantages with size, speed and saavy, and led by player of the year canidate Ryan Nieto-Whitaker (2007's football player of the year) and fellow football all-stars Stetson White and Giles Austin.

Friday, January 25
Jefferson Gets Back At Heritage

HERITAGE 34, JEFFERSON 29

In a replay of last week's game in which Heritage stopped Jefferson's drive for the regular season title, the two meet again in the second round of the AAC championship tournament.   Jefferson was down early, but a Tim Bellamy 3 pointer made it 6-5 at the 8 minute mark.  Bellamy followed that up with a layup drive and free throw that gave the Patriots the lead 8-6.  Heritage countered and the score was tied at 8 at the 6 minute mark.  Jefferson led by 17-12 at the half as Bellamy hit a 3 pointer as the buzzer sounded. 

In the second half, Heritage came out flat while Jefferson applied a full court press as the Patriots took a 25-14 lead.  Heritage came alive late in the game closing the gap to 31-26 with 3 minutes left.   In the end it was too many turnovers and blown opportunities for Heritage, who at one time was down by only three.

 

Friday, January 25
Premier And Maya In A Thriller

Premier  45, Maya 42 

Premier's taller athletic athletes took on Maya's quick, physical Jaguars in the first playoff game of the evening.  In a battle of two vastly improved teams, the score was tied at 9 at the 5 minute mark in what was up to that time a defensive stalemate.  At the 1:20 Mark, Maya surged ahead scoring 9 unanswered points and led 18-9 at the half.

In the second Half, Premier came stormung back outscoring Maya 15-2 and led by 4 at the 12:24 mark.  Ryan Nieto-Whitaker led the surge and took control as Maya fought back, with a 3 point play followed by a layup as Premier led 29-22 with 9:42 left.   Antoinio Delarosa's 3 pointer at the 7 minute mark closed the gap tp within 4, but Nieto-Whitaker followed with another clutch layup. Premier was up 34-25 with 4:33 to go.  A younger, stubborn Maya closed to within 4 three times and with 15 seconds left were down 41-39.  Premier broke away for an easy layup, but a foul put Antonio Delarosa on the line with three shots.  Keeping the game interesting, he converted all three and the game was a tight one for the duration.

 

Wednesday, January 23
Maya advances with win over Westland, JWJ to meet Jefferson
Maya beats Westland in the opening round 36-22.

Tuesday, January 22
Girls Final Wednesday, Boys Playoff Opening Rounds

GIRLS CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

	6:00 PM   Girls AAC Championship: Maya vs Premier
	BOYS FIRST ROUND PLAYOFFS  6:35 PM   Boys 1st Round Playoff Game: Maya vs Westland
	7:15 PM   Boys 1st Round Playoff Game: Heritage vs Mission

Friday, January 18
Heritage upends Jefferson, Premier Cruises By Westland

HERITAGE 37, THOMAS JEFFERSON 28

Down by 26-20 at the 4:40 mark and most of the game Heritage 14 unanswered points and beat Jefferson to tie for a share of the regular season title.   Jefferson led most of the game, but a  back to back three pointers by Tariq McDonald and Tim Johnson aided by multiple Patriot turnovers fueled the vicious scoring run.  Jacob Aviola added two more from byond the arc to put the game put of reach.  Joshua Taylor led Heritage with 11 points,  McDonald aded 10, Wilmoth 7 and Johnson 6.  Vernon McNeal scored 9 points and added a game high 11 rebounds to lead Jefferson.  

PREMIER 33, WESTLAND 7 

Premier led 9-4 at the half, then went on a 14-2 scoring run to start the second half in a win over Westland.  With the victory, Premier clinched a a share of the league title and a first round bye as second seed. Premier's balanced scoring was led by Ryan Nieto-Whitaker's 8 points, Stetson White 6, Nathaniel Dorsey 6 and Juan Sanchez 5.

 

Friday, January 18
Friday: Regular Season Wraps Up

Huddle up: Regular season title and a top seed is at stake for Jefferson

January 18

	6:00 PM   Thomas Jefferson vs. Heritage Academy Jefferson has rebuit a team from the ashes after taking a self imposed probation.  The result, a team that has gone on a tear with a chance at regular season & a league championship.  Based on the strength of 8 returning players, Heritage was favored to make  their first championship apprearance.  A win over Jefferson could give them a share of the regular season title and a chance to regroup for a playoff run.
	6:45 PM   Westland vs. Premier Premier's tuning up for the playoffs.  They need to set the tone tonight.  Last season's loss in the championship lingers as this team has the top returning roster in the league and has underperformed. Westland has a chance to regroup for the tournament, a good showing tonite will set a good tone for next week.

 

 

Tuesday, December 2
IMPORTANT BASKETBALL LINKS

Team Websites, Player Stats & schedules: http://eteamz.active.com/aaufootball/teams/  

Girl's Standings: http://eteamz.active.com/aaufootball/standings/index.cfm?season=492875&division=4508139

Boy's Standings: http://eteamz.active.com/aaufootball/standings/index.cfm?season=492875&division=4508136

Schedule: http://eteamz.active.com/aaufootball/calendar/index.cfm?date=2008-01-01

Schedules & results: http://eteamz.active.com/aaufootball/schedules/

Arizona's Most Wanted (All-League Teams) http://eteamz.active.com/aaufootball/news/index.cfm?cat=194305

                                                    www.coachmo.com

 

 

CHAMPIONS CLICK HERE....

Saturday, January 12

Wednesday, January 16
Wednesday's Results

Maya 32, Westland 8

Brenalee Sakeistwa scored 12 points and Bianca Ramirez 10 as Maya ran by Westland.  Maya led 11-3 at the half.  Maya had 18 steals.

Maya 31, Westland 29

Antonio DeLarosa scored 22 points and George Galaviz added 8 points and 5 rebounds, but Maya needed a second layup to get by Westland.  Matt Schatzabel led Westland with 11 points.  Julian Westmoreland had 7 points and 7 rebounds.

Jefferson 43, Mission Hills 16 

Thomas Jefferson, in the drivers seat for their first league regular season title, jumped out and didn't look back in a win over Mission Hills. 

 

Saturday, January 12

Driven: Maya's Bianca Ramirez drives the lane & pulls up in win o ver Premier

Friday, January 11
Basketball Results

Clutch: Timely 3-pt shots and free throws were key in Heritage's win over Maya

GIRLS

MAYA 13, PREMIER 10

 Defending champion Maya got by it's closest competitor Premier 13-10.  Maya held off two Premier threats after a 7-5 halftime lead.  Premier charged  back and made it close at the end but Maya made a clutch free throw to clinch victory with 3 seconds left.  Maya's Brittany Lewis led all with 8 points and 6 rebounds.  She also had 3 steals.   Bianca Ramirez added 3 steals and 4 rebounds.  Premier was led by Jessica Arias' 5 points.  She also had 2 steals.  Deanna Brown had 4 steals and 3 rebounds.

BOYS 

HERITAGE  29, MAYA 25

A motivated Heritage led most of the game but a stubborn and revamped Maya fought back form deficits to keep it close.  2007 player of the year Joshua Taylor broke out of his season long slump with 13 points, 4 steals and 5 rebounds.  Team mate Jacob Aviola had a game-high 8 rebounds and 5 blocked shots. 

Heritage won and plays for a share the regular season title next week against Jefferson.  Down 29-25 with 32 seconds left Maya made one more run at the lead. but missed far too many layups and blew several op's at the free throw line.  Antonio Delarosa led Maya with 7 points.  Thomas Martinez added 6 points and 5 rebounds.

Saturday, January 12
Images from 11 Janaury

Saturday, January 12
More images from 11 Janaury

Wednesday, January 9
Game Site Change: Games This Week are at Royal Palm School (click here for directions)

Thomas Jefferson: Shooting for first place?

Friday at Royal Palm 

	6:30 PM   MAYA (G) vs. PREMIER (G)
	7:15 PM   Heritage Academy vs. Maya

 MAYA (G) vs. PREMIER (G)

Maya beat Premier in a low soring matchup before the break 9-6.  A Premier puts them up half a game.   Premier is fresh off a win over Westland.

Heritage Academy vs. Maya

Heritage is not playing up to their advanced billing, especially with 7 returning players not geting it done.  They will be playing with heavy hearts due to the loss of their school Patriarch and south Phoenix icon Mr. Tilford.  A win tonite and a win over Maya tonite and an upset of Jefferson could give them the league's regular season crown.

Maya is young and not was expected, but they are growing up in a hurry and get two talented players back from academic probation tonite, so this will be a different team, and a good game between two traditional rivals.  The looser win probably have to "play in" to get into the playoffs.

 

Welcome to the show: Mission Academy in first eer league matchup.....

Wednesday, January 9
Premier Girls, Westland & Jefferson win as season resumes

Premier's girls win against Westland

Premier Girls 16, Westland Girls 10

Margarita Avila scored 9 points and Jessica Aria added 5 and 4 assists as Premier jumped out front and held on for a over Westland.  Alison Hardy's 9 rebounds was the highlight for Westland.

 Westland Boys 34, Mission Academy 8

Westland's Matt Shatzabel scored a carrer high 15 points and Julian Westmoreland 7 as Westland beats Mission Hills.  Romeo Alvarado had 6 points and 6 rebounds and Shannon Rogers 4 points and 6 rebounds for Westland.

Jefferson 38, Premier 32

In what has become the leagues newest and hottest rivary, Thomas Jefferson jumped out to a 8-0 lead and led 14-5 at one point enroute to a 38-32 win over Premier.  Premier stormed back but Jefferson led 19-11 at the half.   Down by 6, Premier closed the gap to 33-27 (Jefferson) with under 5 minutes left in the game.  A late three point shoot by Premier made things interesting but Jefferson's Ethan Gilmore's jumper with 28 seconds left and clutch free throw shooting sealed the win.  Jefferson's Tim Bellamy led all scorers with 14 points.  Gilmore had 8 (4 steals) and Ricky Olguin & Miguel Morjaras had 6 each.  Vernon McNeal had 5 rebounds.  Ryan Nieto-Whitaker, the leagues top scorer and rebounder, had 10 points and 8 rebounds for Premier.  Isreal Chavarra had 8 points, and Jiles Austin had 6 rebounds

 

Friday, January 11
Images from Thursday's games

Friday, January 11
Images from Thursday's games (2)

Monday, December 17
Girls Standings

(Click on a heading to sort)
	Team:	GP	W	L	T	Pave	PF	PA	PCT
	MAYA (G)	2	2	0	0	20.50	41	16	1.000
	PREMIER (G)	2	1	1	0	9.50	19	16	0.500
	WESTLAND G	2	0	2	0	8.50	17	45	0.000
	DESERT HILLS (G)	0	0	0	0	0.00	0	0	0.000
	MISSION ACADEMY (G)	0	0	0	0	0.00	0	0	0.000

Monday, December 17
Boys Standings

(Click on a heading to sort)
	Team:  ( )=overall record)	GP	W	L	T	Pave	PF	PA	PCT
	Premier (3-1)	2	2	0	0	34.00	68	35	1.000
	Thomas Jefferson	2	2	0	0	29.00	58	25	1.000
	Heritage Academy (1-2)	2	1	1	0	25.00	50	54	0.500
	Westland (1-3)	2	0	2	0	13.50	27	59	0.000
	Maya	2	0	2	0	13.50	27	57	0.000
	Mission Academy	0	0	0	0	0.00	0	0	0.000

Sunday, December 2
ARIZONA'S MOST WANTED: 2007 All AAC Football Team

Athletes: Ryan Nieto-Whitaker (Premier), Luis Guerrerro (Maya), Jayce Welchel (Westland), Matt Schatzbel (Westland)

Running Backs: Stetson White (Premier), Nate Taylor (Maya), Antoine McCallom (Westland),

Wide Reciever: Jilles Austin (Premier), Nathaniel Dorsey (Premier), Omar Acosta (Maya) , Dausey De'Andrade (Maya)

Defensive backs:  Tommy Martinez (Maya), Chris Saldivaro (Premier), Julian Westmoreland (Westland), Felix Villalobos (Westland)

Defensive Linemen: Estaban Flores (Westland), Chris Colburn (Maya), Mikail Lopez (Premier), Zack Christian (Premier)

Offensive linemen: Ocsar Perez (Maya), Tony Meza (Premier), Danny Allendar (Westland), Jay Key (Westland), James Melton (Westland), Joseph Johnson (Premier), Jacob Pueblo (Premier)

Coach Of The Year:  Andre Nillo (Premier)

(Click on the photo to see the 2007 Blue Chip Team)

 

 

Desrt Hills' junior varsity team huddles up

Friday, December 14
Friday's Games

Premier's Ryan Nieto-Whitaker dominated football season, leads in hoop scoring.

DESERT HILLS JUNIOR VARSITY 29, HERITAGE 12

Ashton Guerrero scored 12 points and hauled down 6 rebounds and Justin Mortenson added 8 more rebounds as Gilbert Desert Hills junior varsity team beat a veteran Heritage Academy 29-12.  In what can be viewed as a major upset, Desert Hill's JV team led 9-1 midway though the first half and 13-4 at the 14 minute mark over Heritage in this non-league matchup.  Desert Hill out-rebounded Heritage & out shot them leading 15-7 at the half.  In the second half, Heritage continued their poor shooting from the field and from the line. 

Desert Hills kept applying the pressure, stealing passes and blocking shots at will.  In fact, Desert Hill's JV outshot Heritage 14-1 in the second half, giving up 4 points in the last minute. 

 

PREMIER 31, MAYA 12 

With Premier's girls loud and cheering from the stands, the game was emotionally charged from the start as both teams clamped down on defense.   Premier only led 4-2 at the 8 minute mark and 10-3 at the half.   In the second half, the Titans took firm control of the offensive flow of the game.  Up by as much as 18, led 23-9 with two minutes left and won 31-12. 

MAYA GIRLS 9, PREMIER GIRLS  6

Ariana Vega, Brittany Lewis, Brenalee Sakiestwa, and Antoinette Rivas scored baskets and controlled the boards in a win over Premier. 

 

Sunday, December 9
LEAGUE STANDINGS

Girls Standings: http://eteamz.active.com/aaufootball/standings/index.cfm?season=492875&division=4508139

Boys Standings: http://eteamz.active.com/aaufootball/standings/index.cfm?season=492875&division=4508136

 

                                    www.coachmo.com ............Join us!!!

 

Wednesday, December 12
Jefferson Rolls On, Maya Girls & Premier Win Openers

Maya's Brenalee Sasquetch scored 14 points in her debut for Maya

Thomas Jefferson 32,  Westland 10 

Jefferson took an 11-0 lead midway and led 19-4 at halftime.  In the second half the Patriots led by as much as 25 points, playing stellar press defense on their way to an easy win.  Westland did a good job on defense on the most part, but committed way too many turnovers.  Jefferson's Rickey Olguin led all scorers with 14 points.  Miguel Morjaras has 8 steals, Oulguin had 5.  Jefferson's Salvadon Garcia and Westland's Shannon Rogers both led all with 6 rebounds.

  

  MAYA (G) 20, WESTLAND (G) 12

Leading by at least 10 most of the way, Maya ran away from Westland 20-12.  Brenalee Sasquetch scored 14 points and blocked 3 shots for Maya, Brittany Lewis had 8 rebounds.  Alison Hardy led Westland with 6 points and 5 rebounds.

 

 Premier 37, Heritage Academy 23

Continuing a heated rivalry, Heritage (JWJ) and Premier played a very close first half.  Deadlocked at 6 each 8 minutes, Premier surged ahead, out running and out shooting during 17-0 scoring run.  Premier led 23-6 at the half and held off Heritage for a 37-23 win.   Jiles Austin (14 points) and Ryan Nieto-Whitaker (9 points & 7 rebounds) led Premier as the Titans overpowered Heritage on the boards.  Joshua Wilmoth had 9 points and 4 steals for Heritage.

Jefferson outshot & out hustled Westland.....

Stolen: Jefferson defender steals the ball and sparks a scoring run

Friday, December 7
REGULAR SEASON STARTS: SCORES FROM FRIDAY NIGHT

Heritage and Westland players shake hands after seasons first league game

HERITAGE 27, WESTLAND 17

Veteran heavy Heritage led out the blocks spreading the scoring evenly among players.  2007 player of the year Josh Taylor led all scorers with 7 points and added 6 rebounds.  Matt Schatzabel (Westland) and Darius Leopaul (Heritage) had 5 each.  Julian Westmoreland led all with 7 rebounds.

JEFFERSON 26, MAYA 15

Maya jumped out to an early 7-2 lead, but Thomas Jefferson, sparked by a steal and a dunk, came back and the score was tied at 11 at the half.  It was all Jefferson in the second half as they outshot Maya 15-4.  Jefferson's Vernon McNeil led all scorers with 6 points, Tevin Kyle added 6 rebounds.  2007 defensive standout Ricky Olguin had 3 steals.

GIRLS SCORES

PREMIER 13, WESTLAND  7

Jessica Arias scored 9 points and had 3 steals for Premier.

 

 

Sunday, December 9
Faces In The Crowd


Wednesday, December 5
TURKEY SHOOT RESULTS

GAME ONE 

Westland 36, Maya 31

Westland and Maya traded baskets for most of the first half with the score tied at 14 with 4 minutes left in the half.   surged ahead behind Matt Schatzabel's 4 first half three pointers and Shannon Rogers 9 points to lead 22-14 at the half.

In the second half Westland cruised a 31-19 lead at the 8 minute mark and the game seemed over, but Maya went on a 10-0 scoring rin ro close the gap but lost 36-31.   Rogers led all scorers with 15 points and 10 rebounds.  Shatzabel had 12.  Thomas Martinez led led Maya with 13 points.

GAME TWO 

Desert Hills 29, Premier 26 

Ryan Nieto-Whitaker led Premier with 14 points.

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Desert Hills 48, Westland 18

 

Nogales Invitational (10 Dec 07)

Nogales Invite

10 December, 2007 

4pm:  Heritage Academy vs Nogales TBA

445:  Gilbert Desert Hills vs Nogales TBA

6pm:  Winners game

 

Sunday, December 2
Basketball Fever: Regular season kicks off December 7th at Royal Palm School

Friday's games

He's baaaaack:  Joshua Taylor was our 2006-07 Boys Player of The Year

Dec 7

6:00 PM   Heritage Academy vs. Westland

6:40 PM   Thomas Jefferson vs. Maya

7:15 PM   Desert Hills (JV) vs. Premier

8:15 PM   WESTLAND G vs. PREMIER (G)

Top returning players:  Joshua Taylor, Heritage (2007 player of the Year, leading scorer);  Stetson White, Premier (second team ALL AAC, first team football);  Omar Acosta, Maya (ALL AAC Football), Thomas Martinez (Maya), Alfonso Lowe, Premier (All conference last season); John Parker (Heritage), Jeremy Grant (Heritage), Tyrese Simpson (Heritage) , Julian Westmoreland (Westland), Matt Schatzebel (Westland), Antoine McCollum (Westland)

 

Wednesday, November 7
Premier Wins Football Title

Premier 13, Maya 0

Premier overcame a slow start and disciplinary issues that plagued the offense in the first half  to beat Maya, who suffered from similar issues 13-0.  In the first half, both teams struggled to move the ball by ground and by air.  Both quarterbacks did fair jobs running the ball, but both teams struggled to get past mid field.

Both school benched key players.  Premier disciplined two of it's star players by sitting them in the first half.  Maya had to bench a star player for the game.  That would prove fatal to their quest.

In the second half, Coach Nillo asked star wideout Ryan Nieto Whitaker to stay in and block.  That was truly the turning point of the game.  This gave Saldivar the precious extra time. Also note that two of his horses that sat out the first half came out running in the second.

Stetson White took the first play after halftime, a short pass, 60 yards from Chris Saldivar, for a touchdown as Premier took a 6-0 lead.  Jiles Austin made it 7-0 with an extra point conversion.  The teams traded a couple of possesions highlighted by the scrambling of Maya quarterback Luis Guerrerro.  Saldivar did the same for Premier.  Both had mixed results as both defenses adjusted quickly to the run.   

Premier adjusted again.   Saldivar hit Austin on a short out, he turned upfield for a long run and Premier ended up on the Maya 2.  A few plays later, Austin leaped over Maya for his second TD reception from Saldivar to make it 13-0 .  Maya moved the ball well with time running out, actually making into the red zone.  Austin intercepted a deflected pass and it was pretty much over. 

 

Tuesday, November 6

Friday, November 16
Final Standings

	Team:	GP	W	L	T	Pave	PF	PA	PCT	SO
	Premier	8	8	0	0	29.25	234	26	1.000	4
	Maya	8	5	3	0	10.38	83	76	0.625	2
	Westland	6	1	5	0	6.33	38	123	0.167	0
	Omega Academy	6	0	6	0	4.17	25	155	0.000	0

Monday, November 5
Premier and Maya to play for league championship

Premier high takes on Maya high in the AAC championship game Wednesday night at the Ditch.  The winner will take home their first league championship trophy.  It would also be the first boys title for Premier coach Andre Nillo or Maya coach Jon Kronsted.

Premier earned their title shot by going unbeaten this seaso in regular season play.  Along the way, Premier set a new league scoring record (221 points) and had 3 shutouts while giving up only 26 points.  The team is loaded with All-AAC nominees and is led by multi-talented defensive-back/offfensive talents Ryan Nieto-Whitaker, Jiles Austin and Stetson White.  Ad quarterback Chris Saldivar  and tight end/running back Nathaniel Dorsey and it's easy to see while they averaged 31 points per game.  Linemen Mikail Lopez, Zack Christian, Tony Meza, Joseph Johnson and Jacob Pueblo are among the leagues best.

Maya is led by wideout/defensive back Thomas Martinez, one of the leagues best and most reliable defensive backs.  He's also a big play threat at reciever.  Omar Acosta has proven to be just as good, making big plays n both sides of the ball all season.  They have made life easier for quarterback Luis Guerrerro, who struggle att he beginning of the season, but has since shown signs that made him an all league selection last year.  Running back Nathan Thomas gives Maya an added punch as he can also catch the ball.  Linemen Oscar Perez and Chris Colburn lead a younger, smaller, but effective line.

 

Thursday, November 1
Premier Over Omega, Championship Bound

Premier made it a clean sweep over Omega in a 25-0 win Thursday at "The Ditch".    Stetson White had two touchdown catches, one a spectacular pass-run combination, in a brilliant display on individual effort.   Quarterback Chris Saldivar scored on a 30 yard touchdown run and threw his third touchdown pass of the night to Nathaniel Dorsey.

 

Wednesday, October 31
Maya heads to the championship

Westland hung tough in the first half, but Maya proved too deep in the second as Maya beat Westland 24-6 to advance to the AAC championship game. 

Maya opened the scoring with a Luis Gurrerro to Thomas Martinez touchdown pass.  After the teams traded possesions, Maya got a break after a Felix Villalobos interception was returned deep into Maya territory.   Westland quarterback Jayce Whelchel ran in for a score two plays later to tie the score at 6 each.  Maya answered on the very next play with a 80 yard pass play with Gurrerro throwing to Thomas Martinez.  Maya led 13-6 with 40 seconds in the half.  Martinez intercepted a pass, nearly scoring to end the half.

In the second half marching right down the field.  Guerrerro threw his third TD pass of the night to Dausey De'Andrade.  Westlands offens was pretty stagnant in the second half, mostly because of a fierce Maya pass rush.  With two minutes left, Maya locked the game up with a Nate Taylor TD run. 

Martinez intercepted two passes for Maya, Acosta had a great day both ways.   Felix Villalobos and Jayce Whelchel had good games on offense and defense for Westland.

 

Monday, October 29
Championship Playoff Schedule

Wednesday, 31 October   Maya vs. Westland

La Parada Park (39th ave and Glendale)

Maya beat Westland in both battles this season.  Westland was making a move in their last meeting, but miscues took them out of the game.  Maya has had a tough time winning a title in football, they will be focused.

Thursday, November 1   Premier vs. Omega Academy

St. Paul Lutheran Church "THE DITCH"

Premier is easily the leagues class act putting up 30 a game and giving up only 4 touchdowns this season.  They are loaded with talent top to bottom.  Omega may be the most dangerous team in the league right now.  They are definitely not the team that lost a combined 83-12 in the first two outings.

 

Thursday, October 25
Premier Finishes Season Unbeaten, Gets by Maya Again 18-6

The leagues two best teams tangle again and it was pretty much a replay of the prior meeting.  Premier went up early as Ryan Nieto-Whitaker scored on a short touchdown pass from Chris Saldivaro.  Maya answered with a great drive, highlighted by a long run by quarterback Luis Guerrerro, who then threw a short TD pass of his own to Omar Acosta. After that, it was pretty much a standoff.  The score was tied until Premier scored on a Joseph Williams blocked pass intercepted and run in for a touchdown by Mijail Lopez making the score 12-6.  Maya continued to hang in but multiple miscues between the quarterback and center and a series of strategic blitzes by Premier left Maya visibly shaken.  Nieto-Whitaker picked off another pass and wideout Jiles Austin went to work on a couple of big pass-run plays leading to another Premier score a pass from Saldivaro to Nathaniel Dorsey (18-6).  In doing so, Premier set a new league scoring mark with 188 points.

 

Thursday, October 25
Playoff seeds pretty much set, All AAC, Player of the year & "Dream Team" to be named this weekend

Playoff matchups

Premier vs Omega:  Premier blew Omega away in previous meetings, but this will be a "different O-Dog" they will be facing.  Motivated and vastly approved.  We think.

Maya vs Westland:  The leagues oldest  rivary continues.  Both have been repeat bridesmaids before and are looking for a title.  The game will be at Maya on Wednesday.

Player of the year Candidates:  Ryan Nieto-Whitaker (Premier), Tommy Martinez (Maya),  Jiles Austin (Premier)

 

Monday, October 22
Premier over Westland

Premier jumped out to a 30-2 halftime lead and cruised to a 39-2 win over Westland.  Premier's secondary proved too talented to allow passed.  Premier coach Andre Nillo admitted that Westland's secondary stepped up in the second half to slow his offense and force him into a ground game.

 With the win, Premier set a league scoring record (170 for the season) set last year by Avondale Estrella (164) and they still have a game left. 

 

Sunday, October 21
Regular season finale's moved to Thursday at The Ditch

4pm 

Westland vs. Omega Academy  

Omega has improved by leaps and bounds the past two weeks, last week loosing a heartbreaker to Maya at Maya.  If the offense can catch up with the defense and they erase penaties (they lead the league), they will be tough in their probable playoff matchup vs Premier.  This Omega, Premier has not seen.  But Westland know how good Omega has become.  Westland had a very good secondary, so if Omega has any hope, they will have to keep the game close by running the ball.  The looser will get Premier at The Ditch in the first round.  The winner goes to Maya.

 

5pm

Premier vs. Maya

 Premier has pretty much locked up first place,but Maya can force a statistical tie with an upset.  Premier is looking to be the first team in league history to score 200 points in a season.  Thier 34ppg average says they will.  Though Maya lost 20-6 in their last meeting, they were only down 6-0 in the first half, but Premier did not start quarterback Chris Saldivaro.  Premier's Stetson White, Jiles Austin and Ryan Nieto-Whitaker are the best  Last season Maya shut out Premier twice including a 24-0 win in the semi finals.  This could be a good one.

 

 

 

Sunday, October 14
ALL LEAGUE NOMINATIONS!!!!

Coaches and ref's, by position, especially with linemen.  I need your nominations for All-conference football players and supporting comments and stats.  Coaches  ref's  comments and stats weigh highly and will be posted on the website.

Nominated players:  QB Chris Saldivaro (Premier), Luis Guerrerro (Maya),  Matt Schatzbel (Westland)

 RB: Stetson White (Premier), Nathaniel Dorsey (Premier),  Nate Tate (Maya), Antoine McCallom (Westland),

WR/DB: Jilles Austin (Premier) Ryan Nieto-Whitaker (Premier), Nathaniel Dorsey (Premier), Tommy Martinez (Maya), Tommy Martinez (Maya), Julian Westmoreland (Westland), Jilles Austin (Premier) Ryan Nieto-Whitaker (Premier), Stetson White (Premier), Omar Acosta (Maya) , Felix Villalobos (Westland), Jayce Welchel (Westland), Julian Westmoreland (Westland)

Linemen: Estaban Flores (Westland), Danny Allendar (Westland), and Jay Key (Westland), James Melton (Westland)

 

Thursday, October 18
Regular Season Ending....Upcoming Games

CLASS A CONFERENCE 2007 Football - Next 5 Games
		Date/Time:	Game (Home vs. Visitor) :	Location:
		Mon 10/22/07 4:30pm	Premier vs. Westland	St. Paul Lutheran Church "THE DITCH"
		Wed 10/24/07 4pm	Westland vs. Omega Academy	St. Paul Lutheran Church "THE DITCH"
		Wed 10/24/07 5pm	Premier vs. Maya	St. Paul Lutheran Church "THE DITCH"
		Wed 10/31/07 4pm	TBA vs. TBA	Playoffs
		Wed 11/7/07 TBA	TBA vs. TBA	League Championship

Wednesday, October 17
MAYA GETS BY TOUGHER OMEGA

Maya beats Omega 13-8, and the game was even closer than the score.  Maya's first toughdown was scored on a spectacular catch my Tommy Martinez, in the back of the endzone.  Martizez went on to make a couple of  more great catches but both Maya and Omega struggled on offense when in the other teams territory.  Add to that multiple penalties on both sides.  If not for the miscues, this would have been a high scoring affair.  Both teams will be tough to face in the playoffs.  Omega will probably draw Premier in the first round.

 

 

Premier vs. Westland

St. Paul Lutheran Church "THE DITCH"

 

 

game rescheduled for monday @ 430

Wednesday's games to be played on Thursday the next two weeks.

 

Friday, October 12
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS (Click on the icons below to view game action!!!)

Friday, October 12
OFFICIALS COMMENT ON OMEGA VS PREMIER

Game officials Kory and Derrick Parham, both accompliushed player themselves share observations of the game between Premier and Omega.

 Premier got off great start in making a statement that they are premier and belong in the discussion of who could win the championship of 07. Premier qb chris showcased his ability by distrubuting the football to his recievers dorsey, xavier, and ryan. also showed his "michael vick" ability by running and scrambling.

Chris threw several short and long passes to confuse omega defense. premier scored 14 by half, omega 0 .

In the second half omega came out moving the ball only to have ryan "no fly zone" pick it off, ending Omega 's strong drive.

Omega would not give up, their qb hit brandon on a bomb for omega first score and later hit for a second time, brandon danced through some tackle and broke for his second score....then Premier became Premier again.

Striking Omega defenders and offense with td after td ..dorsey 2, xavier 1 and ryan finish it off after omega tipped the football and it fell into ryan hands for the score. ryan again picked off omega to end the game.

 

Sunday, October 7
Mid-season notes

Teams Notes

Premier:  Easily top of the heap.  Austin and Nieto-Whitatker are top canidates for playerof the year.  The line is huge and has played very well.  Only class conduct and grades could stop this team.  Well coached, it's strictly up to the players.  In football and basketball, Premier has always been a championship contender, but they have not won a title.  They face Omega next and could clinch the regular season title with a win. 

Maya: Small line and all, Maya, like Premier is an annual AAC contender.  Like Premier, well coached.  Like Premier no titles.  All AAC Quarterback Luis Guerrero seems to be figuring it all a=out and is balancing the run and pass.  The Jaguar's secondary is just as good as Premier's.  Runningback Nate Tate may be the key.  Wednesday's game vs Westland will be for second place in the AAC.

Westland:  Like Maya and Premier, this is a proud program that has tasted the title game, but no trophy to show.  Young, and with a good sized line, they could be a factor in the playoffs.  Coach Diane kows her stuff.  Her son and daughter were both top notch players in high school, so she knows what it takes.  It's pretty much up to the team to determine thier destiny.

Omega: Omega is still trying to cut their teeth in a league that is one of the states best for charter schools.  They have the talent, size and speed.  They also have one of the leagues more qualified coached.  Coach Basett played in the Big Ten, has experience in coaching and a resume to show for it.  Now all they need to do is win.  But they face Premier next week.

 

Friday, October 12
Maya Coach Shares highlight of win over Westland

Highlights  Nate Taylor had over 100 all purpose yards.  Caught a 60 yard touchdown pass from Thomas Martinez. 

*Omar Acost also had a touchdown reception of 45 yards from Thomas Martinez. 

*Interceptions:  Thomas Martinez had 1 to give him 7 INT"S in 3 games. 

*Omar Acosta 1 to give him 6 total. 

*Justin Graham had an INT for a TD and Dausey D'Andrade had the last INT. 

Wednesday, October 10
Big Plays lead to Maya win, Premier rolls on......

MAYA 18, WESTLAND 6 :  Games was closer than the score indicated.  As usual, Maya got off to  as slow start and took a 6-0 lead into the half.  An interception return for a touchdown made it 12-0 at the 7 minute mark.  Westland struck back two plays later with a 60 yard pass play of their own.  Another costly turnover stopped an apparent rally and Maya held on for the win.

 

PREMIER 43, OMEGA 12: Premier turned it up in the second half in a win over a motivated Omega High school.  The running game was the difference as Nathaniel Dorsey scored on a 80 run,  quarterback Chris Saldivaro on runs of 40 and 60 yards.  Saldivaro also though scoring passes to Ryan Nieto-Whitaker (40 yards) and Xavier Trevino (30).

Premier Coach Andre Nillo gave kudo's to Omega.  He noticed they played more like a team and were tough to throw on.  Premier was leading 14-0 at the helf when the Omega offense woke up and scored on the opening drive of the second half.

 

Wednesday, October 10
Wednesday's Games

4:30 PM   Premier vs. Omega Academy

Premier can pretty much wrap up the regular season title with another win over Omega.  In their season opening meeting, Premier shelled Omega 41-0 as Jiles Austin caught 3 bombs of over 40 yards and scored a total of 4 touchdowns.  Austin is creeping up on the league mark of  50 yard plus plays set last year by Estrella's Carl Crayton.  Ryan Nieto had four interceptions and a score at wide reciever.  He's tied for the league mark with 6 interceptions and tomake matters worse, he played a little QB against Maya. Offensively is where Omega can match up, as they have a pretty good line and are well coached.

 

4:30 PM   Maya vs. Westland

Maya dealt Westland a blow as they snuck away from "The Ditch" with a 6-0 win on a Luis Guerro to Nate Tate TD pass early in the second half.  Otherwise it was a close game and evenly matched.  Maya played Premier a lot closer than the final score indicated.  Westland is fresh off a 24-6 home win against Omega.  Maya had 5 INT's vs Premier, Thomas Martinez is tied for the league league with 6 interceptions.  Omar Acosta had two vs Premier.

Thursday, September 20
Images: Opening Day

Wednesday, September 26
Premier Rolls on, beats Westland

PREMIER 30, WESTLAND 0 

Fielding their best team since joining the league, Premier high school scores its second straight shutout, beating nearby rival Westland 30-0.   Last week, Premier lit up Omega by air, this week the damage was done on the ground by Joseph Williams and Stetson White.  Williams scored on a 40 yard run.  White, who had well over 100 yards rushing, scored on 40 and 60 yard runs.  Quarterback Chris Saldivaro threw an 80 yard touchdown pass to Nathaniel Dorsey. 

Defensively, Ryan Nieto-Whitaker added to his interception with his league leading 5th pick of the season.  He also scored his 3rd two point conversion of the year.  Premier also scored on a safety.

 

Maya won by forfiet over Omega Academy.   Omega has never won a game in AAC league play.

 

Wednesday, September 19
SEASON OPENS AT :THE DITCH"

Premier 41, Omega 0 

Phoenix Premier high school made a statement and rolled up the points in a 41-0 win over Peoria Omega Academy.  Returning all-AAC defensive back Stetson White intercepted Omega's first pass attempt and returned it 20 yards to open the scoring for Premier.  Chris Saldivaro threw four touchdown passes to Jiles Austin, three for over 50 yards as Premier made a great showing despite only a few days of practice.  Safety/Wideout Ryan Nieto had 4 interceptions and did a great job patrolling the secondary with White and Austin.

 

Maya 6, Westland 0

Maya runningback Nate Tate took a swing pass thrown by 2006 All-AAC quarterback Luis Gurrerro 20 yards for the games lone touchdown as Maya beat Westland in a game dominated by turnovers and offensive miscues.  Westland running back Antoine McCollins had a good night running the ball for Westland.  Westland quarterback Julian Westmoreland ralled his team in the closong seconds movong the ball deep into Maya territory, but the drive ended as Maya's Tomas Martinez intercepted his 3rd pass of the night.

 

 

Wednesday, October 3
Premier still unbeaten, Westland beats Omega

Westland: 24 - Omega Academy: 6  

Omega and westland went into tonite's game winless and scoreless.  Westland got back on track with a win over an improving Omega high School.  Julian Westmoreland had 2 interceptions and Westland's quarterback had 2 touchdown runs.  Tailback Antonio McCollom rushed for over 100 yards. 

 

Maya: 6 - Premier : 20

Ryan Nieto-Whitaker, subbing at quarterback, threw a 20 yard touchdown pass to Jiles Austin as Premier took a 6-0 lead att he half and held on for a 20-6 win at Maya. Both teams came into the game unbeaten and tied for first with Premier a road favorite as they had outscored opponents 79-0.   

 

 

Friday, January 25

Brenalee Sakiestewa

Friday, October 3
Video: John Velez Big Interception vs Premier

To View Video click on photo