ISLAND Domination

FEATURES: Sand Volleyball in San Diego Donnie Dee’s The Heart of a ChampionAsk the Jock DocCollege Recruiting

www.spotlightsportsmag.com

FALL SPORTS 2012VOLUME 4 NO.1

SAN DIEGO’S PREMIER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ATHLETE MAGAZINE

Athlete Spotlight:el Camino’s Justin WilliamslCC’s Kyle MummauCarlsbad’s Jackie eghtesaditp’s Kristen BuchananDel Norte’s george liang

2

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

We know how much your sport matters to you, because we’re athletes too. And we’re as

committed to your recovery as you are.

At UC San Diego Sports Medicine, we treat your muscles, bones and joints from head to toe.

For more information, call 858.657.8200 or visit sportsmedicine.ucsd.edu.

We feel your pain.And then we fix it.

Registered Representative offering securities through Independent Financial Group, LLC a registered broker-dealer.

Member FINRA/SIPC advisory services offered through Capital Growth, Inc. Capital Growth, Inc. and Independent Financial Group, LLC are not affiliated entities.

Strategic Investment Managementf Have you had life changes? f Changed employers? f Retiring soon? f Do you have company stock? f 401 rollover options?f Beneficiary questions? f Want to consolidate accounts?

Capital Growth, inC.8910 University Center Lane Suite 150San Diego, CA 92122

858-552-6960Or email me at PatB@CapitalGrowthInc.com

– Pat Brennan, MBA VICe PReSIDeNt

Investment & estate Planning

“To receive the answers to these and other questions you may have, please contact me

for a complimentary consultation.”

3

FA

LL

20

12

We strive for 100% satisfaction!

We use the latest techniques

and technologies!

We see patients of all ages!

We have the room –

up to 20,000 sq. ft

At ProActive Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, we understand you are coming to us so we can make you feel better. We also understand therapy can be much more than getting your muscles to work again. Therefore, we offer an environment in which recovery is combined with education, nurturing relationships and deep awareness of our patients’ needs.

When we began many years ago, our vision was to create a friendly, cohesive environment in which our patients would enjoy being an active participant in the rehabilitation process. ProActive has achieved just that and more. By providing the best possible care, ProActive has developed strong relationships with San Diego’s leading physicians.

Carlsbad, Oceanside, Encinitas, San Marcos

6070 Avenida Encinas Carlsbad, CA 92011

760-444-0102email: info@proactive4pt.com

4S Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Mountain Ranch, Rancho Santa Fe, Poway,

Rancho Bernardo, Carmel Valley, San Diego

10720 Thornmint Road, Suite A San Diego, CA 92127

858-381-5084email: centralinfo@proactive4pt.com

Vista, San Marcos, Oceanside, Escondido

115 Main Street Vista, CA 92084

760-842-8824 email: vistainfo@proactive4pt.com

4

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

contents SPOTLIGHT SPORTS FALL 2012

VOL.4 NO.1

Above and Cover: Malohi Makihele #40 and Ricky Liuchan #44 lead the Mision Hills team in a Haka before the Sept. 28 game. Photos by Kimberly Deutsch

Features

6 Island Way Polynesian Roots Run Deep in the North County

12 Hopes, Dreams and Reality by Anthony V. Ybarra

13 Popularity of Sand Volleyball, College Scholarships, Spur Local Programs by Brad Hollingsworth

19 Who Coaches The Team: Parents of Young Athletes by Mary Shuck, Ed.D.

Athlete Spotlights9 Football Justin Williams, El Camino

10 Field Hockey Kristen Buchanan, Torrey Pines

14 Football/Lacrosse Kyle Mummau, LCC

15 Cheerleading Jackie Eghtesadi, Carlsbad

17 Football George Liang, Del Norte

Departments 5 The Heart of a Champion by Donnie Dee Thanks, Coach!

11 Ask the Jock Doc Tips for staying healthy while surfing and what you need to know about sunscreens by the sports medicine experts at UC San Diego Health System - Sports Medicine

Post your sports news on our wall!

www.facebook.com/spotlightsports5

FA

LL

20

12

The Heart of a Champion

Thanks Coach!

By Donnie Dee

Donnie Dee has been with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for 19 years and now serves as FCA’s Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer at the Home Office in Kansas City, Mo. As a Kansas City native, Dee played football and basketball for Oak Park High School and was a four-year letterman in football at the University of Tulsa. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts and played in the NFL for two years. Today, Dee directs the daily ministry of FCA’s Home Office, which serves more than 400 local and regional offices that annually impact more than two million people across the country.

“A coach will infuence more lives in a year than most will in a lifetime.” Coach Tom Landry

WHAT iS iT about the coaching profes-sion that makes a man or a woman commit his or her life to help-ing young athletes learn a sport?

Obviously it’s not the money, flexible hours or the lack of stress. We know it’s not usually the support they receive from the administration or from us as parents.

So, what is it?It’s the opportunity to teach a

game they love to a group they care about! I have found this at the very heart of every coach whom I have ever met. I realize coaches aren’t perfect, and they can disappoint, but is there a more noble profession?

Coach Tom Landry, the late head coach of the Dallas Cowboys once said, “A coach will influence more lives in a year than most will in a life-time.” Wow, what a bold statement!

As a young athlete at Oak Park High School in Kansas City, Missouri, I was greatly influenced by my high school basketball coach. He was more than a coach to me; he was like a father because he encour-aged me to be my best and at times even disciplined me. He helped me see what I couldn’t see about myself and about life. I am not sure where I would be today if it were not for Coach Brill.

“Coach said,” are two of the most powerful words you will ever hear. Every day a young athlete is impacted by something a coach said. Coach said he believes in me. Coach said I was working hard. Coach said I am a leader. Coach said I have a bright future. Coach said….

I am certain you have been positively influenced by some-thing a coach said. Since this is the beginning of a new school year and the start of another season, here are a few additional thoughts for you to consider.

Parents: in a show of appreciation, I challenge you to say, “Thanks” to your kids’ coaches the next opportunity you have. There is no one in America that is having a greater impact on the lives of this generation than our coaches. It amazes me to think about the lives they are influencing.

Athletes: don’t miss the opportunity to learn from and be shaped by your coach. It might not make sense now why they are so demanding, but someday you will see the impact they are having on your life. Be coachable!

Coaches: there isn’t anything easy about being a coach. Just like you tell your athletes, it’s going to take effort, sacrifice and putting your team first. The reward is worth it and more than you can imagine as someday you will hear, “Thanks, Coach” from the many athletes you have influenced.

The Bible says in Hebrews 6:10, “God is not unjust, He will not forget your work and the love you have shown as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”

Thanks coaches for the many ways you help our young people be all that they can be!Stretch yourself this off season. You won’t regret it!

6

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

By BRAD HOLLINGSWORTH

Island Way

The Polynesian Influence on Football in the North County

Mission Hills Junior Ricky Liuchan #44 leads the “Haka” just moments before the game this season. The Haka is an ancient tibal chant from the Polynesian Maori culture. It fires up the team and the fans. Photo by Kimberly Deutsch.

7

FA

LL

20

12

THERE ARE TWO

EXAMPLES from a few decades ago that illustrate the ferociousness and kindness of

Pacific Islanders when it comes to high school football in the North County.

Back in the fall of 1986, the late Junior Seau and about two dozen Oceanside High teammates traveled to Vista High to face the defending CIF 3A champions. Sure, the Pirates were undermanned that night, eventually losing 21-7, but Seau left his mark on anyone wearing red. He played with such aggressiveness that he completely dismantled the facemask of his helmet that it had to be replaced in the second quarter. Then, by the end of the game his helmet had so many red skid marks on it that it looked as if he had been in a series of car accidents.

Fast-forward to nearly a decade later and meet El Camino defensive lineman Peau Atoe, who single-handedly disrupted offensive lines with surprising quickness and brute strength. When asked what the physical transformation from his junior to senior seasons, he looked you straight in the eye and said, “I ate the pig, man. I ate the pig.”

And so it has gone, beginning in the 1960s through today where players from the islands of Samoa, Tonga and Hawaii have migrated to North County, strapped on helmets and shoulder pads and dominated prep football from virtually every position.

“It is perfect for the culture because it emphasizes community and family,” said Oceanside athletic director Dave Barrett, who has played or coached Pacific Islanders for nearly 40 years. “They take to the sport naturally with a warrior mentality.”

The migration to Oceanside began in the early 1960s with Buck Paopao and Junior Leia Paopao and continues today with Pirates quarterback Tofi Paopao. However, to those outside coastal communities, the player at the top of the list is Seau, who undoubtedly will be honored in Canton, Ohio, the site of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

“You can make a case for many as the best Pacific Islander football player in our area, but Junior is at the top of the list,” Barrett said. “He excelled at a higher level than others, but there have been so many great ones.”

Oceanside High coach John Carroll has benefitted greatly from Pacific Islanders, notching 11 CIF titles and two state championships during his 24 years at the school. Carroll has taken advantage of the skills of players, who may not excel at the college level, but leave everything on the field on Friday nights.

“They are physically fit for it,” said Carroll. “And they seem, culturally, to use the physical contact in a positive way.

Chimed in offensive line coach Rick Gerardi: “Just look at them, they are just right for it. Some of them wear a size

8 helmet and are just a lot bigger than everyone else on the field.”

On a Friday night, it is easy to spot the Pacific Islander community. They arrive at games early and with every uncle, cousin and child in tow to root on any family members that are on the field. Some are quiet, almost docile, during games, while others watch every play closely like they are dissecting something in a high school biology class.

“They have everything you desire in a player,” Barrett explained. “Like many kids, they may have issues outside the field, but they are coachable and want to do well. They get a tremendous amount of support from their family and community and they are wonderful to be around.

“On the field, Samoans are easy to coach. They are good practice players and an asset to any program.”

Pirates QB Tofi Paopao acknowledges that he is playing for more than himself and his teammates each week. He knows that the praise and criticism will come from all angles because of the numerous family members that attend each game.

“It goes back to my uncles and great uncles. We were an El Camino family until we moved into the Oceanside area in the seventh grade,” said Paopao in a recent interview. “It’s humbling being a Paopao. It’s an honor to carry this name, but a lot is asked of you.”

Right: Oceanside quarterback Tofi Paopao sets up for a pass on Sept 28 against Mission Hills. Photo by Deb Hellman.

8

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

HIGH SCHOOL CLASSESCLASSES SPECIALLY DESIGNED

FOR H.S. GYMNAST & THOSE

PREPARING FOR H.S. WILL GET

EVERYONE READY FOR THE SEASON!

ALSO AVAILABLE:-CAMPS -PARENT’S NITE OUT -BIRTHDAY PARTIES -OPEN GYM & FUN ZONE

CHECK OUT GYMINNY GIFT’S & GEAR!

RANCHO BERNARDO | 17022 CAMINO SAN BERNARDO 1 - 800 - GYMINNY | www.GyminnyKids.com

SINCE 1987

ACROPERFECT CLASSES FOR

GIRLS LOOKING TO

IMPROVE THEIR TUMBLING

SKILLS FOR CHEER & DANCE

NORTH COUNTY GYMNASTICSNORTH COUNTY GYMNASTICS&THE GYMINNY KIDSTHE GYMINNY KIDSCarlsbad, CA www.EatGrubbys.com (760)729-6040

Me Gusta!Menu & Social Links @ www.EatGrubbys.com

Walwick & FreedA ProFessionAl lAW CorPorAtion

William J FreedATTorney AT LAW

specializing in:

•living trusts•Wills•estate Planning•Probate Administration &

litigation•trust Administration & litiga-

tion•Will Contests•Breach of Fiduciary Duty

serving north County for over 50 Years

760-722-4221email: wjfreed@sdlawyers.net

815 CiviC Center Drive • OCeansiDe, Ca 92054

Carlsbad Oceanside

Text “freeslice” to 90210 for…you guessed it…

A FREE Slice!

9

FA

LL

20

12

>> FOOTBALL SPOTLIGHT

Justin Williams

oN AND oFF THE FiELD, Justin Williams is a special person. His leadership is evident with the daily positive impact he has had on his peers lives through FCA (Fellowship of

Christian Athletes), ASB, and in the classroom with a 3.3 GPA.

On the football field, he is simply remarkable. Through seven games, Williams has already amassed 1,271 yards rushing, 879 yards per carry average, 16 touchdowns, with three 200-yard plus performances, including a 297-yard effort at Ramona last month. He is on pace to come close to the rare 2,000-yard season.

In 2011, Williams was named the NUC (National Underclassmen) u100 West MVP and NUC Top Prospect. In addition, as a junior he was Avocado West first-team offense as well as the named to the 2010-2011 All-Academic Team.

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

NAme JUSTIN WILLIAmS

SCHOOL eL CAmINO

SpOrT FOOTBALL

pOSITION rB/LB

HeIgHT 5'11"

WeIgHT 200

grAde 12

gpA 3.3

Why are you so successful this season? This offseason I spent countless hours in the weight room and studying film from my last two seasons. I recognized my strengths and weaknesses in my game, and built upon them.

What colleges are you considering at this point? I’ve been in contact with Boise State, Oregon State, Nevada, Colorado, Colorado State, Kansas State, SdSU, amongst others.

What is your fondest athletic memory of high school so far? my sophomore year when we beat Oceanside 24-14, in our house. The Oceanside- el Camino rivalry is much anticipated by the community every year. As a kid, you dream about someday playing in that big game. I recorded two sacks, and rushed for 105 yards as well, making the night that much more special.

What would you like to be remembered for at your school ten years from now? I want to be remembered as a young man of Christ first, and a football player second. The guy everybody could look to for leadership and direction.

Favorite local restaurant and what do you order? Carl’s Jr., The double Western Bacon Cheeseburger

Favorite video game? NCAA 2013

Favorite team? San diego Chargers

Favorite band/music artist? Lecrae and 116 Clique

person you’d most like to meet? ray Lewis, LB, Baltimore ravens

Favorite cartoon as a youngster? Arthur

greatest sports memory? my first touchdown in pop Warner.

Future career? Become a police officer and then join the deA.

What’s the best thing about your sport? Football is a team sport. All eleven guys on boths sides of the ball must play together in order to be successful. One play can shift the entire momentum of a game.

What do you miss most about being a little kid? playing all different sports and games outside with my childhood friends.

Which professional athlete would you like to be compared to? Why? I’d like to model my game after 49er’s rB Frank gore. He makes one cut, gets upfield and never shies away from contact.

Any advice for younger athletes? Let doubters be the fuel to your fire. Throughout your life, there will always be haters and nay-sayers. But don’t ever let them keep you from fulfilling your dreams and reaching for your goals. You want it? go get it!

Favorite food? my momma’s spaghetti

Favorite actor or actress?- Will Ferrell

Favorite sportscaster? Al michaels

Favorite sporting event to watch on TV? BCS National Championship/Super Bowl

Nickname? J-Will

El Camino’s running back Justin Williams looks for am opening in the Rancho Buena Vista’s defense.

10

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Kristen Buchanan

KRiSTEN iS A THREE-YEAR VARSiTY PLAYER and team captain. So far this year she has 4 goals and 7 assists and

was named to the important Serra Tournament All-Tournament Team. She is a two-time USFH Elite Level Player and three-time National Futures Championship selection, the pipeline for the US Olympic team.

Her coach the past two seasons, Kari DiGiulio (now athletic director at La Costa Canyon), praises the impact Kristen has on her team. “Kristen works hard every day and is always willing to make the extra effort to better herself whether it is extra time after practice or on her own. She is gifted, but she works hard and leads by example.”.

New current Falcons coach Katy Moyneur, who was team captain on the University of Michigan 2001 NCAA National Championship Team, elaborates on the Kristen’s leadership and selfless-ness. “She’s quiet in nature but tenacious on the field. Her knowledge of the game and her vision on the field is top notch. She’s an excellent ball distributor, unselfish, yet demands the best from her teammates, and is a great role model.”

Why are you so successful this season? I am dedicated to my sport and alwaays strive to play my best. I am a player who sees the field and can make smart plays moving the ball up the field as well as, keeping the offense away from our goal.

What colleges are you considering at this point? I am committed to play at Ohio University on an athletic scholarship.

What is your fondest athletic memory of high school so far? Being a starter on varsity as a sophomore.

What would you like to be remembered for at your school ten years from now? I am the hardest worker and most skilled player and one of the best leaders on the team.

Favorite local restaurant and what do you order? Board and Brew. Chicken Club

Favorite team? USA Field Hockey

person you’d like to meet? emma Stone

Favorite cartoon as a youngster? Arthur

greatest sports memory? Scoring a diving goal at the Junior Olympics in 2010.

Superstition? I have to have my hair up in a certain way before each game and I tie my shoelaces before the season and will not untie them until the end of the season.

Future Career? I want to become either a teacher or a physical therapist.

What’s the best thing about your sport? people don’t realize that this is a physical sport that takes a lot of talent and athleticism.

Any advice for younger athletes? Work hard during practices and treat every game like it was your last game.

Ultimate dream car? A yellow Lamborghini murcielago

Favorite TV show? House

Nickname? Whippa Snappa

>> FIELD HOCKEY SPOTLIGHT

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

NAme KrISTeN BUCHANAN

SCHOOL TOrreY pINeS

SpOrT FIeLd HOCKeY

pOSITION mIdFIeLder

HeIgHT 5'5"

grAde 12

gpA 3.71

Torrey Pines field hockey team captain Kristen Buchanan controls the ball during the game.

11

FA

LL

20

12

Q. I started surfing this summer and LOVE it! Is there anything I need to know to stay safe out there?A. For many beach-goers summertime means shredding waves. More than 17 million Americans are active surfers, including 1 million in California alone. The benefits for the body and mind are unquestionable, yet there are inherent risks associated with the sport.

“The most common injuries are bruises and cuts often caused by contact with the surfer’s own board,” says Ken Taylor, MD, sports medicine special-ist at UC San Diego Family and Sports Medicine, and Medical Director for the International Surfing Association. “Several safety devices, such as helmets, protective eye-wear, and rubber guards for the board’s fins and nose are available and can reduce injuries from a surfboard hit-ting a surfer. The use of a surfboard leash for protection is recommended but occa-sionally this strategy can backfire. Leashes keep the board near the surfer providing a flotation device in case of an accident. They also reduce the number of accidents caused by runaway boards hitting other surfers. Leashes, however, make it more likely for a loose board to recoil back at the surfer and cause serious injuries, such as eye damage. It’s important to always stay focused, and protect your head with your arms every time when surfacing from a wipe-out.”

Surfers should also make sure that weather and water conditions are safe. Ask a lifeguard about rip currents, sting-rays and other hazards prior to paddling out, especially if you’re not familiar with a particular beach.

“Additional surfing hazards may come from the marine environment,” adds Dr. Taylor, who provides medical cover-age at the World Surfing Games held in exotic locations such as Tahiti, Portugal and Costa Rica. “Although many people associate water sports with shark attacks, they are in fact, extremely rare. Stingray injuries, while extremely painful are much more common and in most cases can be initially treated with hot water to inactivate the nerve toxin. Shuffling the feet while walking through shallow water can prevent stings, because bottom-dwelling fish scatter when they are alerted

to human presence.”Surfers are at increased risk of sun-

burns and developing skin cancer. It’s important to apply sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection (at least SPF 30) such as zinc. Also, wearing protective clothing such as rash guards or wetsuits and limiting sun exposure between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. can reduce the effects of sun exposure.

Q. I heard something about new sunscreen guidelines coming out. Since I’m always outside training or playing in sunny San Diego, is there anything I should know?A. You’re right! Effective December 2012, the FDA is requiring that all sunscreens be “broad spectrum”. That means they pro-tect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays can cause sunburn while exposure to UVA rays increases your risk of developing skin cancer and early skin aging. Sunscreens may no longer adver-tise a sun protection factor (SPF) greater than 50+ because there’s inadequate research showing that higher SPF levels provide superior skin protection. A sun-screen with an SPF <15 can help prevent sunburn, but is not guaranteed to pre-vent early skin aging or skin cancer, and cannot be classified as broad spectrum. imagery.

Sunscreens can no longer use the terms “waterproof” or “sweatproof. Instead they may be labeled as “water resistant” for either 40 or 80 minutes, based on laboratory tests.

Since sunscreen can wear off, it’s important to re-apply every 3 hours. If you’re an athlete, this might mean reap-ply at halftime or between matches. If you’re out surfing or swimming, have sunscreen on hand when you get out of the water. Choose a cream, lotion or gel with at least SPF 30 to receive adequate protection.

If you want beaufitful, wrinkle-free skin, early sun protection is critical. You may have heard concerns that using sun-screen will compromise your Vitamin D status, but studies haven’t shown this to be true.

One out of 5 Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Your risk increases with a higher lifetime of sun exposure. So taking preventative mea-sures is a smart move to keep your sking young and healthy, along with your ath-letic body.

“Ask the Jock Doc” is brought to you by the sports medicine experts at UC San Diego Health System – Sports Medicine. Let us help you get back on track. Call 858.657.8200. For answers to your sports injury or performance questions email jockdoc@spotlightsportsmag.com.

12

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Hopes, Dreams and RealityA Proactive Recruiting Strategy for Families with

Children in Junior High or the Early Stages of High School

Like most parents, the dream is that their kids will one day play a sport at the collegiate level. Since our children typically begin playing sports at a young age, we invest considerable time and money into their athletic careers, and our own paren-tal goals begin to shift.

Through club and high school competition, many parents hope that their athletes get noticed, recruited and eventually, receive scholarship offers. For some, this still exists. However, the reality is that with the resources available today, families now need to be the recruiters, not the recruited!

To begin the process, it is highly recommended that athletes decide what they want in a collegiate experience, independent of their sport. Often, we read or hear about college athletes returning home from their respective schools. But if a student-athlete had chosen a college that was a good overall fit for them in the first place, they would have a better chance of fin-ishing their careers there.

With my clients, the first thing that is done is to go through a laundry list that a student-athlete or any college-bound stu-

dent should consider during the college planning process. From these parameters, a semifinal list of schools should emerge of colleges that would be a fit for the student, their sport notwith-standing. Should your athlete suffer a career ending injury, wouldn’t it be nice to know that they are still on a campus in which they are happy?

A proactive recruiting strategy needs to be one that is well thought out, planned and executed. Game films, statistics, honors, recommendations, recruiter contact information, just to name a few, should be prepared. As we all know, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Though we are advo-cating a proactive recruiting process, families need to first make sure that their ducks are all in a row and everything is in place.

Timing is also of equal importance as each sport has very specific times and spans in which coaches can be in contact with recruits. Be sure to know these limitations for your indi-vidual sport prior to establishing contact with coaching staffs. You will want to make sure that they can (hopefully) respond to your initial communication, once you have gained their attention.

Anthony V. Ybarra has come to be known as one of the nation’s leading college admissions consultants and was called the “Admissions Secret Weapon” by Fox Television. Mr. Ybarra possesses a rare combination of experience and credentials that few in this country have attained. In addition to his recent college admissions experience, he also earned a Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern California. He can be reached at anthony@veritasacademic.com.

13

FA

LL

20

12

Popularity of Sand Volleyball, College Scholarships, Spur Local Programs By Brad Hollingsworth

HiGH SCHooL VoLLEYBALL is adding its own spin to “Life’s a Beach.” Numerous high school girls are migrating to the

sand in hopes of improving their indoor game or branching out to become sand-only players at the college level. With the popularity of beach game at 2012 London Summer Olympic Games, where Kerri Walsh-Jennings and Misty May-Treanor won their third con-secutive gold medal defeating fellow Americans April Ross and Jen Kessy, one could say that the sand is fertile ground for more than sunbathing and Frisbee. Sand volleyball remains in its infancy at the NCAA level, but a growth plan is in place. After Pepperdine’s Summer Ross (Carlsbad High) with her partner Kelley Larson won the inau-gural Division I Collegiate National Championships last year, schools are expanding their programs. Beginning in the 2013-2014 season, D-1 universities will have four scholarships available up from two this year. That number increases to five and six scholarships in the following two seasons. Each sand program plans on having five teams of two players with a full coaching staff. In the North County area, volleyball clubs are offering comprehensive pro-grams during the fall for both boys and girls in middle school and high school to improve their beach game, which is uniquely different from the indoor game. First, there are only two players on the court, and, secondly, the players must negotiate the weather conditions like sun and wind, as well as the depth of the sand.

At Coast Volleyball in Sorrento Valley, the club has built a three-court facility next to its indoor courts. The self-proclaimed “Home Court” will have Olympic-grade sand, enclosure net-ting and lights, along with a complete area for spectators. Mike Placek, Diane Denecochea, Derek Olson and Said Souikane head up the coaching staff that maintains a ratio of 10 players to one coach during all training sessions. Placek still competes domestically on the beach, while Souikane is a former member of the Moroccan National Team. Denecochea was a decorated professional beach player, while Olson plays domestically and internationally on the sand.

Wave Volleyball has also incorpo-rated a sand program using Dog Beach in Del Mar as its home base. The Wave has brought in one of the greatest beach players of all time in Liz Masakayan to help lead its staff. Masakayan won 47 tournaments on the sand and was an Olympian indoors in 1988. She also coached 2004 bronze medalists Elaine Youngs and Holly McPeak. Joining Masakayan are current beach professionals Matt Olson and Kevin McColloch. Olson has won twice on the AVP tour, while McColloch has fifteen top-10 finishes during his professional career.

Left: Matt Olson spikes the ball during an AVP Beach Volleyball match at Hermosa, Calif. Photo by Robert Beck

Below: Beach volleyball player Liz Masakayan sets the ball.

>> FEATURE

14

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Kyle MummauCoach’s PerspectiveBy Head Coach Sean Sovacool

KYLE iS A TWo-YEAR starter, captain of the team, leader on defense, and a beast of a player. He will also be a three-

year starter on the Lacrosse team. Kyle is an awesome young man, unbelievable student and person. His selflessness and quiet confidence is what makes him spe-cial. He will do whatever it takes to help our team be successful. He has a wide range of gifts and abilities but he would be the last guy to tell you about them.

Kyle has had a tremendous impact on our team leading by example. He works unbelievable hard, plays hurt, with always the same genuine interest and effort. He is not afraid to speak up but does not talk too much. He has a terrific balance of character and charisma. Not a “show-boat” but can “put on a show,” by the way he gets himself around the football with excellent ball skills, and can flat out bring the “boom.” Without question all of his teammates and coaches respect him and look up to him as one of the leaders of not only our football program but our campus and community.

Why are you so successful this season? I owe all my success this season to my teammates. No one thinks they’re above the team, and we help to keep everyone grounded. We watch film every lunch and our scout teams play harder than ever before.

What colleges are you considering at this point? University of Tufts

What is your fondest athletic memory of high school so far? Winning the 2012 CIF Lacrosse Championship in overtime against our rival, Torrey pines.

What would you like to be remembered for at your school ten years from now? I want to be remembered as being a leader on and off the field.

Favorite local restaurant and what do you order? Board and Brew. Turkey Club with no tomatoes.

Favorite video game? NCAA Football 2013

Favorite team? I have always been a penn State fan and that hasn’t changed

depite the events of this past year.

Favorite cartoon as a youngster? Tom and Jerry

Superstition? I have way too many to count.

When sports are done what kind of career do you want to pursue? Something in the field of Biology.

What’s the best thing about your sport? The camaraderie and the faith you have in your teammates.

Which professional athlete would you like to be compared to? Why? michael Jordan, he is unquestionably the greatest to play his sport, and he did it the right way.

Any advice for younger athletes? If you work hard it will pay off.

Ultimate dream car? I’m already driving it - 1991 Saab 900 turbo with a manual transmission and convertible.

Favorite movie? Braveheart

Favorite actor or actress? Will Ferrell

Favorite sportscaster? Kirk Herbstreit

Anything else you want us to know that we didn’t ask? I have a younger brother, Jason mummau, who is a sophomore at LCC who will probably end up doing bigger and better things than I ever did.

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

NAme KYLe mUmmAU

SCHOOL LCC

SpOrT FOOTBALL/ LACrOSSe

pOSITION COrNerBACK/ deFeNSe ON LAX

HeIgHT 5'10"

WeIgHT 175

grAde 12

gpA 4.4

>> FOOTBALL/LACROSSE SPOTLIGHT

LCC’s cornerback Kyle Mummau (17) stops Rancho Bernardo’s Trevor Berck (6) on Sept. 21 at LCC. Photo by Kevin Mummau

15

FA

LL

20

12

>> SPIRIT SPOTLIGHT

Jackie Eghtesadi

FoR Jackie Eghtesadi, cheerleading means much more than just standing on the sideline. Although she has been an integral part of the Lancer cheerleading team for the past three years, to Jackie it’s more about leadership,

reaching out and getting to know the community, and giving fans a reason to come support the schools’ teams.

This might explain that in addition to the demands on Jackie’s time with cheer, the senior is also the Associated Student Body President, involved as a Peer Leader (a group of outstanding upperclassmen who sponsor events at school and participate in philanthropic and leadership activities), and even finds time to work part-time at Rubio’s.

What is the best thing about Cheerleading? The best thing about Cheerleading is having the ability to change the mood in the stadium and giving the crowd hope and faith in their team to turn the game around.

most-played song on your ipod right now? “gangnam Style.” It’s something everyone can dance to and a fun time.

Hidden talent or surprising characteristic? my flexibility. ever since I was a child, I could touch my nose with my foot, from behind my head.

Next movie you want to see? I want to see Immortals 2 when it comes out. The first one left me at the edge of my seat!

What colleges are you considering at this point? my dream college is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, but I am considering San diego State University.

Fondest memory of high school so far? Standing on the sideline this past year while the “Loud Crowd” chanted “I believe that we will win,” as they jumped up and down, nearly breaking the bleachers.

Favorite local restaurant? The Village grille. I always order their Tuna melt Sandwich.

person you’d most like to meet? ray Lewis, LB, Baltimore ravens. He is such

a great role model for aspiring athletes and is an awesome team player.

Favorite cartoon as a youngster? Sailor moon. I was obsessed with Japanese anime.

Superstition? I don’t like even numbers! Another superstition is if I don’t watch a ravens game, they won’t win.

Future career? my ideal future career is in law enforcement. I would like to lead investigations or go into forensics.

What do you miss most about being a little kid? riding in the grocery cart and acting like I’m the captain of the Santa maria.

Ultimate dream car? An Audi r8.

Favorite Actor or Actress? reese Witherspoon

Nickname? I have a few nicknames. many people call me “Jack,” “Jack Jack,” or “J-dog.” There’s also “eggsalad”, since most people can’t pronounce my last name.

Carlsbad High School cheerleader Jackie Eghtesadi tries to motivate the Lancer fans on Oct. 5 at the varsity game.

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

NAme JACKIe egHTeSAdI

SCHOOL CArLSBAd

SpOrT CHeerLeAdINg

grAde 12

gpA 3.0

16

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Text “freeslice” to 90210 for… you guessed it… A FREE Slice!

17

FA

LL

20

12

George Liang

THRoUGH SEVEN GAMES, Del Norte running back George Liang has rushed for 648 yards on 66 carries, a 7.3 yards per

carry average. He has rushed for over one-hundred yards four times this season including a 134-yard effort in a win over against Fallbrook and a 138-yard game in a win against RBV.

George is currently a two-time Valley League All-league selection. In addition, he was named to the Union Tribune aca-demic team, named two-time Del Norte football MVP and is a two-time honoree of the basketball team Heart and Hustle Award.

This year George is captain of the football team, an ASB Officer and car-ries a 3.7 GPA. He is being recruited by Stanford and Princeton among other major universities. He is the son of former SDSU Professor Chen Liang, who was one of three professors murdered in the 1996 shooting on the campus of SDSU.

Why are you so successful this season? I have been successful this season because of the work I put into the off season. my sophomore year I played basketball and volleyball after football season, and I fell behind speed and weight wise. So this previous off season, I quit both those sports to focus on football.

What colleges are you considering at this point? my top choice would be Stanford, but I’m also looking at Ivy League schools.

What is your fondest athletic memory of high school so far? Beating Valley Center in volleyball on their senior night, or beating Fallbrook in overtime in football.

What would you like to be remembered for at your school ten years from now? my hard work ethic.

Favorite local restaurant and what do you order? Flippin pizza, The Buffalo Chicken

Favorite video game? NBA 2k12

Favorite team? San Francisco 49ers

Favorite band/music artist? Frank Ocean

person you’d most like to meet? Jeremy Lin

Favorite cartoon as a youngster? SpongeBob Squarepants

greatest sports memory? Winning regional’s with my Junior peewee team in rB.

What’s the best thing about your sport? You lose yourself in the moment. School, parents, girls, etc, you forget about it all.

What do you miss most about being a little kid? Not worrying about college.

Which professional athlete would you like to be compared to? Why? Jeremy Lin, he defied all the odds, worked his butt off, and is a stand-out role model.

Any advice for younger athletes? Always ask yourself this: are you having fun? If you don’t have fun playing the sport, then why play it?

Favorite food? gyro

Ultimate dream car? Camaro

Favorite actor or actress? male- michael Cera, Female- mila Kunis

Favorite sportscaster? Charles Barkley

>> FOOTBALL SPOTLIGHT

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

NAme geOrge LIANg

SCHOOL deL NOrTe

SpOrT FOOTBALL

pOSITION FB/LB

HeIgHT 6'0"

WeIgHT 215

grAde 12

gpA 3.71

Del Norte’s George Liang #8 rushed for 138 yards versus Rancho Buena Vista.

18

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Connect with the student athletes & their families in your community!

Team up with us!Place an ad in the

next issue of SPOTLIGHT

SPORTS MaGazIne

Call 760-809-2700or email jim@spotlightsportsmag.com

Why advertise in SPOTLIGHT SPORTS MaGazIne?•Supportlocalhighschoolprogramsandhelppromoteawarenessofthestudentathletes,

positivevalues,andsportsmanship.

•Withhighschoolsportsaspopularasever,wearetheperfectfittoincreasevisibilitywithinourcommunities.

Steven A. Beuligmann, D.D.S.Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

1299 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, California 92008760-729-5964 Fax 760-729-6991

www.smilesofcarlsbad.com

19

FA

LL

20

12

Making choices for our young

Recently, a friend was telling me about an orientation meeting she attended for parents of children entering kindergarten. To her surprise, she learned that after-school physical fitness activities were being offered. It seems there is an on-going parental interest in having young children exposed to team-play and developing physical skills to play them. Yet, not every child finds these programs fascinating. Sometimes parents and children prefer a more secure and individualized learning space.

Hats off to today’s parents, whose trademark is: being versatile

Besides finding the right setting for educating our children, parents today have such varied and complex responsibilities; they are truly “off the chart.” Most parents become good parents as they seek out solutions to the many challenges they face. They seem to have answered these two important questions, and taken ownership of these remarkable attributes---which say a lot about their life priorities.

(1) How should I teach my children to embrace complicated issues such as

ambition, motivation and perseverance while practicing loyalty, integrity and cooperation?

(2) How can I master the art of role-playing to meet the needs of my children’s different personalities?

Parenting is a special gift

The word, parent has universal meaning. It describes both sexes, who among other admirable traits, are a balance of: flexibility, steadfast opinions, boundless energy and at times being a bit feisty. Parents apply these characteristics to cultivate, nurture and mold each child’s uniqueness and value, which make them so special.

In addition, parents are the standard-bearers of our society’s culture by articulating our standards, morals and traditions. As parents, we talk about our society’s values and social expectations while considering individual personalities like: interests, traits, gifts and talents to name a few. During formative years, and even beyond, parents mix and match these attributes, while showing our children above all else, that we care. We are known for often “shifting gears” to offer sympathy, directions or explanations as we give interpretations, opinions and understanding. Sound familiar to you? Take a bow.

Who coaches the team called Parents of Young Athletes?

Having personalized these skills and noticing the many ways we adapt when raising our children, do you ever ask yourself, “Am I taking good care of my own special needs?” Below is a wonderful tool (self-assessment) for answering this question and understanding your current body condition.

WHO COACHES THE TEAM:

PARENTS OF YOUNG ATHLETES

20

SP

oT

LiG

HT

SP

oR

TS

Use a scale 1-5, with 5 being you totally agree with the statement. See how you score.

____ 1. I do not have to believe what I currently think. Positive change takes place when we are open to new and reliable information.

____ 2. We do not always like what we see when we look in the mirror.

____ 3. Learning how to breathe properly is key to keeping my body well aligned.

____ 4. When properly disciplined, muscles establish natural posture, rather than good alignment being responsible for good posture.

____ 5. Restrictions in our musculoskeletal body form and function can be improved, if not eliminated, by knowing proper body movements and practicing them.

____ 6. “Hot spots” in our muscles are related to poor muscle tone and/or strength---leading eventually to misalignments.

____ 7. It is never too late for Rejuvenating our Body Strength and Flexibility.

____ 8. We do not always recognize our misalignments, especially when they occur over time.

____ 9. Rounded shoulders and restricted muscle movements do not have to accompany aging.

____10. Practicing Self-awareness, Self-assessment and Self- management Skills keep us fit.

So, how many fives did you have?

Onward and Upward

It is extremely important to make self-awareness check-ups daily. The more we know about ourselves, the greater our ability to stave-off physiological problems.. Misalignments often occur when our muscles repeatedly perform unnaturally. When muscles move without our conscious awareness, called motor memory, they can learn to become troublesome. When occurring over time, our tendency is to ignore the pain, stress and misalignments they are causing. This happens because the misalignments are hard to recognize.

Be encouraged because this type of muscle malfunctioning can be corrected, or at least minimized, when we have the right information and are diligent about using it. Coaches and medical practitioners can help us understand how to move, but only you and I can know the feeling required in order to improve and maintain muscle performance.

Written by Mary L. Shuck, Ed. D.

Collaborator John “Ed” Fellow, MD

Dr. John “Ed” Fellow, MD specializing in musculoskeletal sports medicine at Scripps Clinic, Rancho Bernardo, CA, has collaborated with me to compile reliable and user friendly information about self-managing our body strength and flexibility in Squared Away: Rejuvenate Your Body Strength and Flexibility. The book reaches out to parents, young adults and the medical community. Squared Away touches us by bringing a distinguished expression of knowledge and understanding to those who have busy lives and appreciate having valid information. Detailing the meaning, and personalizing many powerful messages, the book describes how the individual needs to participate in improving and maintaining his/her physical body to match form and function. Protect the rest of your life by getting Squared Away. Take action to self-manage your precious and unique musculoskeletal body condition and performance. Go on and do it!

Every year, the San Diego Hall of Championshelps improve the quality of life for San Diego’s youth by honoring athletic and

academic achievement, providing sport-specific training programs,

and teaching our leadership curriculum to at-need children.

Without help from our community, this couldn’t be possible.

To learn more about how to support our programs

or volunteer with our organization, please contact

Jesse Lovejoy at jessel@sdhoc.com.

2131 Pan American Plaza | San Diego, CA 92101 | 619.234.2544 | sdhoc.com | @hallofchampions

The San Diego Hall of Champions is a 501 ©(3) organization and all donations are tax deductible.

“Enhancing the quality of life for San Diegans through sports”

sdhoc.