2022 EAGLES

San Juan Hills - Game Notes

SMCHS Eagles (0-0) vs San Juan Hills Stallions (0-0)
at San Juan Hills HS (San Juan Capistrano, California)
Friday, August 19, 2022 - 7:30 p.m.
Original PDF

Rest In Peace: Pete Stevenson - “Voice of the Eagles”

On July 31st, the SMCHS football family lost one of its dear friends when Pete Stevenson passed away. “The Pistol” as he was affectionately known, was one of the first public address announcers for the Eagle’s from the infancy of the program into prominence. Pete is survived by his lovely wife Joan and their eight children. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them.

Revelations 2:10
“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”

FALL 2021 SEASON RECAP & HIGHLIGHTS

The fall of 2021 saw prep football return to a much more standard schedule and routine. The Eagles looked to build upon the positive efforts that commenced only a few months earlier in the spring. Coach Rouz was blessed with a group of rising juniors that proved to be significant contributors in the success the team enjoyed. In addition, several sophomores and even a few freshmen were part of the supporting cast for the varsity team that sported a 6-5 overall record and qualified for the CIF-Southern Section Division 1 Playoffs. The 2021 calendar year was a turning point for the program and the first piece of the foundation that Coach Rouz calls the “Legacy” of Santa Margarita Catholic football was set. The future is quite bright for Eagle football as Coach Rouz possesses a solid stable of young payers with skill and athleticism. The 2022 campaign will be exciting and memorable. Some sixty-plus players from last season’s roster are part of the next group of achievers. Here are some of the team highlights from the fall of 2021:

  • 6-5 overall record with a postseason playoff berth in CIF-Southern Section - Division 1 Playoffs
  • Three-game winning streak that included wins on Senior Night (St. Augustine), at the Trinity League Showcase (Nolan Catholic - Ft. Worth, Texas) and on Homecoming (Los Alamitos)
  • Upset victory over Los Alamitos -- then ranked No. 7 in state by calhisports.com
  • Top 10 rankings in several State, Southern Section and Orange County end-of-season polls
  • No. 5 most difficult national prep schedule ranking at season’s end (calpreps.com)
  • The CIF-Southern Section - Division 1 ranked as toughest postseason bracket in the nation (MaxPreps.com) -- the field included four MaxPreps.com national top 25 schools and four Trinity League schools
  • Season-high 716 all-purpose and 639 total offense yards in win over Orange Lutheran
  • In game versus OLu, quarterback Jaxon Potter scored the game-winning touchdown on a one-yard sneak with 0:13 seconds remaining in the contest -- the last play of the game -- to catapult the Eagles into the postseason
  • Six games with 400-plus yards of total offense
  • Consensus Top-10 selection in multiple 2022 preseason state ranking polls
POLL RANKINGS

CalPreps.com Nation: 22 | State: 7 | Section: 7 | County: 5

MaxPreps.com Nation: 56 | State: 8 | Section: 6

Scorebooklive.com (SBLive) State: 5

Orange County Register County: 5

Cal-Hi Sports (calhisports.com) State: 8

High School Football America Nation: 64 | State: 7 | Section: 7 | County: 5

masseyratings.com Nation: 22 | State: 6 | Section: 6 | County: 4

PLAYER NOTES, HIGHLIGHTS & STATS

Nicholas “Niko” Lopez
#0 | Wide Receiver | Senior | 6-4 / 210

  • Ranked No. 22 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Offense selection
  • Ranked the No. 5 wide receiver in the County by the Orange County Register for 2022, while teammate Emmett Mosley was the No. 3 selection
  • Recognized by Eric Sondheimer of the Los Angeles Times as a tight end to “watch” and “making an impact” in 2022 (July 31 / August 12)
  • Has committed to Colorado State. Also received offers from Nevada, Portland State and Louisville
  • Ranked the No. 73 overall and No. 9 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Summer 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the 3rd Annual Rose City Boyz 7v7 Classic in Pasadena, California. Club team won championship
  • Cited by PredRedzone.com (Michael Huntley - April 11, 2022) as being part of the most improved team in the Trinity League for Fall 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the Turf Wars 7v7 Tournament held in San Juan Capistrano in mid-March, playing for OC Elite. Recognized by 247sports.com as an “Offensive Standout” and PrepRedzone.com as a shining star
  • Ranked No. 2 wide receiver prospect “riser” in state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Winter 2022
  • Named an OCVarsity.com (Orange County Register) “Future 50” candidate for the 2023 Orange County All-Star Football Game
  • Ranked No. 241 overall and No. 62 by position prospect in the nation and No. 55 prospect in state by QB Hit List (qbhitlist.com) for Class of 2023
  • Named to “Huntley’s Hot List: Orange County’s Top 6 Available Football Recruits” on January 22
  • Ranked the No. 112 overall prospect and No. 17 wide receiver in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Winter 2022
  • Fall 2021 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Offense
  • Fall 2021 All-Orange County (by Orange County Register) Third-Team - Offense
  • Fall 2021 All-Trinity League First-Team - Offense
  • Led team with 65 pass receptions, 693 receiving yards and tied for receiving and overall touchdowns with eight. Was second in pass receptions and fourth in yards during the Trinity League regular season
  • Caught 10 passes for 134 yards (13.4 average) and one touchdown in the win over Orange Lutheran in the regular season finale
  • Achieved new career-highs in pass receptions (9) and yards receiving (96) in season-opening win versus San Juan Hills
  • Ranked the No. 178 overall prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Fall 2021
  • Ranked No. 63 by Orange County Register of Hot-150 Top Impact Players in Fall 2021
  • Los Angeles Times Potential Breakout Star in the Southland for Fall 2021
  • Spring 2021 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Offense
  • A member of the Eagles basketball program who is described as having sound basketball instincts that transfer to the football field, especially when going after and securing the ball

Bekkem Kritza
#1 | Quarterback | Sophomore | 6-6 / 190

  • Has received offers from Colorado, Colorado State, Kansas, Texas State and Texas A&M. Has also received interest from USC, Texas and Alabama
  • Participated in the Nike Elite 11 So Cal Regional Camp in Manhattan Beach in early-June
  • Invited to the ESPN 300 Elite Underclassmen Camp in Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Passed for 3,192 yards and 22 touchdowns as a freshman in 10 games in 2021. Also connected on 64.9 percent of his passes
  • According to MaxPreps.com, ranked No. 3 in the nation for passing yards by a freshmen in 2021

Gage Burnett
#1 | Outside Linebacker / Defensive End / Long Snapper | Junior | 6-1 / 228

  • Ranked the No. 107 overall and No. 14 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
  • Ranked No. 73 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Ranked the No. 71 overall and No. 10 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
  • Named by Orange County Register as a 2022 Spring Football “Top Impact Transfer in Orange County”
  • Cited by PredRedzone.com (Michael Huntley - April 11, 2022) as being part of the most improved team in the Trinity League for Fall 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February, 2022. Recognized by 247sports.com’s Greg Biggins and PrepRedzone.com’s Michael Huntley for a “strong showing” at the event
  • Ranked the No. 71 overall prospect and No. 10 at linebacker in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
  • Has received offers from Arizona and Massachusetts
  • Played in all 13 games for Servite in Fall 2021 and registered 38 tackles, two sacks and recovered two fumbles

Jaxon Potter
#5 | Quarterback | Senior | 6-5 / 185

  • Ranked No. 9 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Ranked as a “Quarterback to Watch” in the West by Tom Lemming, one of the top prep recruiting analysts in the country
  • Ranked No. 4 Quarterback in Orange County for senior class (2023) by PrepRedzone.com and No. 4 overall by the Orange County Register for 2022
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Offense selection
  • Ranked the No. 102 overall and No. 13 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Summer 2022
  • Participated in the Nike Elite 11 So Cal Regional Camp in Manhattan Beach in early-June
    - 247Sports.com recognized as a “Top Performer Eye Catcher” -- Player that is under-recruited, has a next level skill set and consistently accurate
    - PredRedzone.com cited: Throws down the field well and showed improved decision making when he was surrounded by better talent at Santa Margarita
    - Interviewed for online article from Cal-Hi Sports (calhisports.com): “The Eagles have a loaded group of returnees, including quarterback Jaxon Potter”
  • Has committed to Alabama-Birmingham (Conference USA). Also received an offer from Portland State
  • Recognized by Eric Sondheimer of the Los Angeles Times for play at the Millikan (Long Beach) 7on7 Tournament in May, 2022: “Displayed some refined decision-making and touch from his junior season”
  • Invited to and participated in the 3rd Annual Rose City Boyz 7v7 Classic in Pasadena, California. Club team won championship
  • Cited by PredRedzone.com (Michael Huntley - April 11, 2022) as being part of the most improved team in the Trinity League for Fall 2022
  • Named an OCVarsity.com (Orange County Register) “Future 50” candidate for the 2023 Orange County All-Star Football Game
  • Invited to and participated in the Proway Battle 7on7 held in Dallas, Texas in March, 2022. Described by 247sports.com as an “eye-catcher”
  • Invited to and participated in the Turf Wars 7v7 Tournament held in San Juan Capistrano in mid-March, playing for OC Elite. Recognized by 247sports.com as an “Offensive Standout” and PrepRedzone.com as a shining star
  • Invited to and participated in the Proway Passing Down 7on7 Northwest Championship in Portland, Oregon in March, 2022. Earned the Northwest High School Regional Most Valuable Player award and championship belt
  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) Athletics 5v5 Tournament in February, 2022
  • Ranked No. 120 overall and No. 10 by position prospect in the nation and No. 8 prospect in state by QB Hit List (qbhitlist.com) for Class of 2023
  • Selected as the two-day Most Valuable Player at the 2022 Showcase Ball Academy Quarterback Challenge and West Regional conducted at Serra High School (Gardena) in late-January
  • Selected the Quarterback Challenge Winner at the same event in Spring, 2021, which included talented quarterbacks from the classes of 2023, 2024 and 2025 from California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada and Hawaii. Also cited as a “Notable Standout” by seismicsportscoverage.com
  • Invited to participate in the Rivals Camp Series / Wilson QBX Camp on February 26 in Los Angeles. Participated in the same event in June, 2021
  • Ranked in Top 100 List of Quarterback Recruits by College Football Today & ESPN Plus for Class of 2023
  • Ranked the No. 102 overall prospect and No. 13 quarterback in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Winter 2022
  • Fall 2021 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Juniors Third-Team - Offense
  • Fall 2021 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Offense
  • Fall 2021 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Offense
  • Finished the Fall 2021 season with 239 pass completions, 433 pass attempts, 2,869 passing yards and 23 touchdown passes. Broke the school record for pass completions and attempts in a single season and threw for the second-most yards ever. Also established a new record for fewest games needed to reach 2,000 yards passing in a season (7)
  • During the regular season, led the Trinity League in pass completions (223), pass attempts (394), passing yards (2,703) and was third in touchdown passes (23)
  • Lit up the scoreboard in last second win over Orange Lutheran in the regular season finale. Set a new single game school-records for pass attempts (55) and pass completions (34) and threw for the second-most yards (462). Scored the game-winning touchdown on a one-yard sneak with 0:13 seconds remaining
  • Ranked the No. 4 quarterback in Orange County by Steve Fryer in his “First and 10 for High School Football’s Week 7” (10/04/21)
  • Threw for the second-most passing yards ever by an SMCHS quarterback in debut game in season-opening win versus San Juan Hills -- 294-yards. Connected for three touchdown passes
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2021 Preseason All-State Second-Team - Offense (QB)
  • Ranked No. 22 by Orange County Register of Hot-150 Top Impact Players in Fall 2021
  • Ranked No. 5 quarterback in Orange County for Fall 2021 by the Orange County Register
  • Cal-Hi Sports 2021 Preseason Hot 100 - No. 71 in state for Class of 2023

LaRue Zamorano
#6 | Defensive Back | Sophomore | 6-1 / 170

  • Ranked the No. 24 overall and No. 4 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Fall 2022
  • Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Summer 2022
  • As a freshman in Spring 2022, achieved amazing marks in Track & Field that are among the school’s all-time best:
    - Long jump: 21’6.5” (2nd all-time)
    - Triple jump: 40’0.5” (9th all-time)
    - 200-meters: 23.42
    - 4 x 100-meter relay
  • Listed on several PrepRedzone.com lists
    -  Ranked No. 6 prospect in state at defensive back position for Class of 2025 in Winter 2022
    -  Ranked No. 5 prospect in Orange County at defensive back position for Class of 2025 in Winter 2022
    -  Ranked on overall “Watch List” of state prospects for Class of 2025 in Spring 2022

Joshua Tuchek
#7 | Wide Receiver / Defensive Back | Sophomore | 6-1 / 170

  • Named as a “breakout candidate” on SMCHS roster by scorebooklive.com in season preview
  • Ranked the No. 102 overall and No. 15 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Fall 2022
  • Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Summer 2022
  • Has been clocked at 11.32 in the 100-meters
  • Ranked in top 10 list of wide receiver prospects and “Watch List” in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Winter 2022

Ben Durham
#8 | Defensive Back | Senior | 6-0 / 205

  • Named as a “top player” on SMCHS roster by scorebooklive.com in season preview
  • Invited to and participated in the Legit Rare All-American Season Series in San Diego in late-Summer
  • Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Summer 2022
  • Offseason training included stops at the Redlands, Utah, Stanford, Sacramento State, San Diego State and Wyoming Summer Camps
  • Has been clocked at 4.60 in the 40-yard dash and 11.96 in the 100-meters
  • Invited to and participated in the Proway Battle 7on7 held in Dallas, Texas in March, 2022 and other regional events
  • Invited to and participated in the four-day National Prep Collegiate Showcase National Combine at the 2022 NFL Pro Bowl held in Las Vegas, Nevada in February, 2022
  • Named a “Defensive Standout” at the Turf Wars 7-on-7 Winter Classic Jamboree in San Juan Capistrano while representing the OC Elite Sky Blue club in January, 2022
  • Listed on PrepRedzone.com’s “Watch List” of state prospects for Class of 2023 in Winter 2022
  • Registered a team-high 12 tackles (tied with teammate Donovan Comestro) in loss at Norco
  • Listed on PrepRedzone.com’s “Watch List” of state prospects for Class of 2023 in Fall 2021

Greg (Bain) Eiseman
#9 | Wide Receiver | Junior | 5-11 / 175

  • Ranked the No. 174 overall prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
  • Ranked the No. 147 overall and No. 20 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
  • Praised by PrepRedzone.com for performances on the “passing league” circuit
  • Cited by PredRedzone.com (Michael Huntley - April 11, 2022) as being part of the most improved team in the Trinity League for Fall 2022
  • On SMCHS Track & Field team, ran 10.98 in the 100-meters which is tied for sixth all-time in school history. Also has been clocked at 4.42 in the 40-yard dash and 23.01 in the 200-meters
  • Ranked the No. 147 overall prospect and No. 20 wide receiver in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
  • Listed as a “Trinity League Stock Riser” by PrepRedzone.com in Winter 2022
  • Was fourth on the team with 27 pass receptions in Fall 2021

Emmett Mosley
#10 | Wide Receiver / Cornerback | Junior | 6-1 / 175

  • Ranked the No. 13 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
  • Ranked No. 10 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County First-Team - Defense selection
  • Ranked the No. 3 wide receiver in the County by the Orange County Register for 2022, while teammate Niko Lopez was the No. 5 selection
  • Ranked the No. 13 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
  • No. 12 ranked prospect in state “Hot 100” from Class of 2024 by Cal-Hi Sports
  • Cited as a “Top Offensive Performer” at the Mission Viejo Passing Tournament by PrepRedzone.com and has improved his speed greatly this offseason
  • Named by Orange County Register as a 2022 Spring Football “Top Impact Transfer in Orange County”
  • Received an invitation to attend the Annual Blue-Gold Game (Notre Dame Football Spring Scrimmage) in South Bend, Indiana on April 23 -- Reserved for top Class of 2024 recruits (Reported by Tom Loy - 247sports.com)
  • Selected by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) as a National Recruit and All-American from the Class of 2024 for photo shoot in Westwood, California (UCLA) in April, 2022
  • Ranked the No. 13 overall prospect and No. 2 athlete position in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
  • Ranked No. 40 overall and No. 26 by position prospect in the nation and No. 3 prospect in state by QB Hit List (qbhitlist.com) for Class of 2024
  • Ranked the No. 13 overall prospect and No. 2 at athlete position in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
  • Highly-recruited player was sidelined much of the Fall 2021 season by injury
  • Currently holds offers from Alabama, Arizona, Arizona State, Georgia, Colorado, LSU, Oregon, Penn State, USC, Clemson, Iowa, Texas, Utah, Texas A&M, Washington, Massachusetts, UCLA and Notre Dame
  • Has been clocked at 11.47 in the 100-meters (2021 @ Servite)
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2021 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Defense (DB)
  • Selected as a preseason MaxPreps.com Sophomore All-American in Fall 2021
  • Celebrated his best moment of Fall 2021 season as he debuted versus Mater Dei and blocked a punt that a teammate returned for a score

LeVar Talley
#11 | Defensive Line | Junior | 6-4 / 210

  • Ranked the No. 26 overall and No. 3 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
  • Ranked No. 62 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County First-Team - Defense selection
  • Ranked the No. 21 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
  • No. 64 ranked prospect in state “Hot 100” from Class of 2024 by Cal-Hi Sports
  • Ranked the No. 11 Top Defensive Line prospect in Southern California by Cannon Sports USA / ELITE Sports Media Group Company
  • Received recognition from Cal Preps - Rivals
    -  No. 9 ranked (For all classes) defensive lineman in the nation at Camp Series
    -  No. 14 ranked weak side defensive end in the nation for Class of 2024
  • Has received offers from Louisville, Georgia, Virginia Tech, Florida State, Pittsburgh and USC. Has made unofficial visits to USC, UCLA, Fresno State, Oregon and Colorado
  • Recognized by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) as a prospect that “shows a very quick get off, strong hands, excellent foot work, loose hips and great attitude -- dominates the point of attack in May, 2022
  • Cited by PredRedzone.com (Michael Huntley - April 11, 2022) as being part of the most improved team in the Trinity League for Fall 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the Under Armour Next Camp Series at Mission Viejo High School in March. Also named a Top Defensive Performer by PrepRedzone.com. Also noted as a player to watch by Greg Biggins of 247sports.com
  • Invited to and participated in the first stop in the 2022 Cal Preps - Rivals Camp Series held at East Los Angeles College. Named the positional Most Valuable Player - Defensive Line in February. Also named a Top Defensive Performer by PrepRedzone.com
  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February. Recognized by 247sports.com’s Greg Biggins for a “strong showing” at the event
  • Ranked the No. 1 defensive line prospect “riser” in state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
  • Ranked the No. 21 overall prospect and No. 2 defensive lineman in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
  • Fall 2021 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Defense
  • Fall 2021 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense
  • In Fall 2021, was second on the team in sacks (4.5) and tackles for loss (10)
  • Enjoyed an outstanding game on defense in loss at Mater Dei -- logged five tackles (4 for loss) and three quarterback sacks
  • Had one quarterback sack in win over Nolan Catholic. Recognized by the Orange County Register’s with “Huntley’s Hits” for Week 4

Cameron Burke
#12 | Quarterback | Senior | 6-2 / 170

  • Offseason training included stops at the Northwestern, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, Penn and Columbia Camps
  • On SMCHS Track & Field team, ran 15.90 in the 110-meter hurdles which is ninth all-time in school history and fifth in the Trinity League in 2022. Also ran 41.35 in the 300-meter hurdles which is twelfth all-time in school history and third in the Trinity League for 2022. Also has been clocked at 4.92 in the 40-yard dash

Donovan Comestro
#13 | Defensive Back | Senior | 6-0 / 180

  • Ranked No. 35 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Defense selection
  • Ranked the No. 4 defensive back in the County by the Orange County Register for 2022, while teammate Blake Wilson was the No. 8 selection
  • Has received offers from Holy Cross, Fordham, Stetson, Bucknell, Cornell, Dartmouth, Princeton, Yale, Penn and Army-West Point
  • Praised by PrepRedzone.com for performances on the “passing league” circuit
  • Offseason training included stops at the SMU and TCU Dallas Showcases
  • Invited to and participated in the Legit Rare All-American Season Series in San Diego in late-Summer
  • Invited to and participated in the Turf Wars 7v7 Tournament held in San Juan Capistrano in mid-March, playing for OC Elite. Recognized by 247sports.com as an “Emerging Sleeper” and PrepRedzone.com as a shining star
  • Named a “Defensive Standout” at the Turf Wars 7-on-7 Winter Classic Jamboree at JSerra Catholic while representing the OC Elite Sky Blue club in January
  • Fall 2021 All-Trinity League First-Team - Defense
  • Tied for second on the team with three interceptions and was second in total tackles with 70. Tied for second-most interceptions in the Trinity League regular season and was fifth in total tackles. Also led the club with 14 passes defended.
  • Had one interception and team-high 14 tackles in regular loss at Servite and also registered one interception in loss to St. John Bosco
  • Registered a team-high 12 tackles (tied with teammate Ben Durham) in loss at Norco
  • Spring 2021 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense
  • Notched 16 total tackles (4 for loss), a half sack, one interception, three pass defenses and forced two fumbles in Spring 2021

Trent Mosley
#14 | Wide Receiver | Freshman | 5-10 / 160

  • After the Summer “Battle at the Beach,” the Orange County Register boasted that receiver Mosley flashed skills beyond his years and was arguably the top freshman in Orange County this season
  • Has received offers from Oregon, Michigan State, Texas A&M and Notre Dame

Matthew Bays
#24 | Defensive Back | Senior | 6-0 / 170

  • Offseason training included a stop at the TCU Showcase

Taurian Nash
#26 | Running Back / Linebacker | Sophomore | 5-11 / 200

  • Ranked the No. 104 overall and No. 9 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Fall 2022
  • Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Summer 2022
  • Listed high on PrepRedzone.com’s “Watch List” of state running back prospects for Class of 2023 in Winter 2022
  • Ranked the No. 9 overall prospect in Orange County by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Winter 2022
  • Enjoyed the best game of his young career in the upset win over Los Alamitos -- 54 yards rushing on six carries (9.0 average) and one touchdown.
  • Scored first career touchdown in win over St. Augustine (2021)

Nicholas Johnson
#33 | Defensive End | Senior | 6-4 / 195

  • Offseason training included stops at the USC, UCLA, Colorado State and Redlands Camps
  • Invited to and participated in the Allegiance Athletics Offensive / Defensive Lineman Camp in March, 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February, 2022. Recognized by 247sports.com’s Greg Biggins and PrepRedzone.com’s Michael Huntley for a “strong showing” at the event
  • Garnered high praise at the California Prep Redzone Showcase (sponsored by PrepRedZone.com) in January, 2022
    - Top 12 Defensive Standouts /
    - Most Valuable Player at Defensive Line position

Blake Wilson
#34 | Defensive Back / Kicker / Punter | Senior | 6-0 / 180

  • Ranked No. 55 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Defense selection
  • Ranked the No. 8 defensive back in the County by the Orange County Register for 2022, while teammate Donovan Comestro was the No. 4 selection
  • Ranked one of the two best kickers in the “powerful'” Trinity League for 2022 and a true “Swiss Army” knife by Eric Sondheimer (Los Angeles Times - August 7, 2022)
  • Praised by PrepRedzone.com for performances on the “passing league” circuit
  • Named an OCVarsity.com (Orange County Register) “Future 50” candidate for the 2023 Orange County All-Star Football Game
  • Key member of the ranked SMCHS baseball team. Named Cal-Hi Sports “State Stat Star of the Week” on April 14 -- at the National Classic High School Baseball Tournament he was 3-for-4 with two home runs -- including a grand slam -- to go along with one double and seven RBI in the 7-4 win over La Jolla Country Day (La Jolla). Batting, Wilson had three home runs and 16 runs batted in while pitching he was 2-0 with four saves in eight games for the team
  • University of Washington commit for baseball. Nominated for the Cal-Hi Sports All-State team
  • Fall 2021 All-CIF-Southern Section Division 1 Football selection
  • Fall 2021 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Juniors Third-Team - Multi-Purpose
  • Fall 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Defense
  • Fall 2021 All-Orange County (by Orange County Register) Second-Team - Defense
  • Fall 2021 All-Trinity League First-Team - Defense
  • Led team with 76 total tackles and five interceptions. Also, was 8-for-8 on PATs and 3-for-6 on field goal attempts. Connected for the longest field goal of the season at 46-yards, which was the longest in the Trinity League in Fall 2021. Also owned the second longest with a 42-yard boot. Tied for the most interceptions in the Trinity League during the regular season and was seventh in total tackles.
  • Registered a career-high 12 tackles (2 for loss), nabbed his team-leading fifth interception and forced a fumble in CIF-SS playoff loss at Servite
  • Had team-high 10 tackles is loss versus St. John Bosco
  • Registered one interception in upset win over Los Alamitos and at JSerra Catholic
  • Connected for a successful 46-yard field goal in loss at Norco
  • Recognized by PrepRedzone.com as one of the Top Defensive Performances for Week 0
  • Spring 2021 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense

Jake Foye
#42 | Running Back | Senior | 5-10 / 195

  • Ranked No. 79 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Offense selection
  • Offseason training included stops at the TCU Showcase and UCLA Camp
  • Has received an offer from Culver-Stockton College
  • Named the No. 3 running back in Orange County by PrepRedzone.com in Spring 2022
  • Has been clocked at 4.65 in the 40-yard dash
  • Led the team in rushing yards (646) in Fall 2021. Was fifth in rushing yards in the Trinity League regular season (574)
  • Rushed for 137 yards and one touchdown in the win over Orange Lutheran in the regular season finale. Recognized by PrepRedzone.com as one of the Top Rushing Performances for Week 10
  • Named to OCVarsity.com Orange County “Bonus List of Top Contenders & Overlooked Players” in 2021
  • Rushed for a career-high 181 yards on 21 attempts (8.6 average) in season opening win against San Juan Hills. Also scored one touchdown

Noah Sulick
#43 | Linebacker | Junior | 6-0 / 190

  • Named as a “top player” on SMCHS roster by scorebooklive.com in season preview
  • Praised by PrepRedzone.com for performances on the “passing league” circuit
  • One of the leaders that emerged on defense, notched 42 total tackles (7th) with nine for loss (2nd) for the 2021 Fall season
  • Registered first career interception in the win over Orange Lutheran in the regular season finale
  • Enjoyed the best game of his young career against Nolan Catholic: four tackles, three tackles-for-loss and one-and-a-half quarterback sacks.

  • Third Sulick to wear the number 43. Uncle Tim '93 and brother Drew '21 both wore the number and graduated from SMCHS

Jacob Bower
#44 | Linebacker | Senior | 6-2 / 195

  • Ranked No. 103 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Summer 2022
  • Offseason training included the UCLA and Sacramento State Summer Camps
  • Listed on PrepRedzone.com’s “Watch List” of state prospects for Class of 2023 in Winter 2022
  • Fall 2021 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Defense
  • Fall 2021 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense
  • Was third on the team with 58 total tackles and also among the leaders in interceptions (3) and sacks (2.0). Tied for second-most interceptions in the Trinity League during the regular season
  • Registered a career-high 10 tackles in regular season loss at Servite
  • Had another monster game on defense in win at JSerra Catholic -- two sacks and one interception
  • Enjoyed the best game of his career thus far with two interceptions, a 27-yard fumble recovery and return for a touchdown and nine tackles in upset win over Los Alamitos in Week 4
    -  Named the Cal-Hi Sports (calhisports.com) SoCal “Defensive Player of the Week”
    -  Awarded a weekly “Helmet Sticker” by Michael Huntley in the Orange County Register  Link with photo: https://www.calhisports.com/2021/09/21/norcal-socal-players-of-the-week-63/
    -  SBLive (scorebooklive.com) nominee for “Southern California High School Athlete of the Week”
    -  Web feature interview on SBLive (scorebooklive.com)
  • Plays rugby for the South Orange County Raptors

Jayden Dose
#50 | Defensive Tackle | Junior | 5-10 / 225

  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February, 2022

Grant Degulis
#52 | Offensive Lineman / Defensive Lineman | Sophomore | 6-1 / 280

  • Attended Jesse Sapolu’s “Men in the Trenches” (MITT) Linemen Academy in February and March, 2022
  • A member of the SMCHS wrestling team

Jalani Liva
#62 | Offensive Line | Senior | 6-4 / 320

  • Ranked No. 44 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Ranked the No. 7 lineman in the County by the Orange County Register for 2022, while teammate Collins Acheampong was the No. 8 selection
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Offense selection
  • Has received an offer from Arizona Christian
  • Invited to and participated in the Legit Rare All-American Season Series in San Diego in late-Summer
  • Ranked the No. 229 overall and No. 26 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Summer 2022
  • Selected to play in the next Polynesian Bowl on Saturday, January 23, 2023 at Kūnuiākea Stadium at the Kamehameha Schools - Kapālama Campus in Honolulu, Hawaii
  • Invited to and participated in the Polynesian Bowl Combine / Tryout Camp in March, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Received several accolades regarding performance:
    -  Named one of five “Top Performers” after the “Best on Best” drill by camp directors
    -  Recognized by 247sports.com for efforts
    -  Recognized by PrepRedzone.com and Michael Huntley for efforts
    -  Described by Greg Biggins (National Recruiting Analyst for 247Sports & Selection Committee for the Polynesian Bowl) as a “major sleeper out West”
  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February, 2022. Recognized by 247sports.com’s Greg Biggins for a “strong showing” at the event
  • Named an OCVarsity.com (Orange County Register) “Future 50” candidate for the 2023 Orange County All-Star Football Game
  • Ranked the No. 229 overall prospect and No. 26 offensive lineman in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2023 in Winter 2022
  • Fall 2021 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Offense
  • Recognized as a “Lineman on the Rise” in Orange County in Fall 2021 by the Orange County Register

Joseph “Joey” Lopez
#64 | Offensive Lineman | Freshman | 6-5 / 315

  • Has received offers from North Carolina-Charlotte University and Jacksonville State
  • Invited to and participated in the Under Armour Next Camp Series for then 8th grade players held in Los Angeles, California in March, 2022
  • Originally from San Jacinto, California

Aidan Carrison
#66 | Offensive / Defensive Lineman | Senior | 6-4 / 300

  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February, 2022

Simeon Maiava
#75 | Offensive Guard / Defensive Tackle | Senior | 6-1 /280

  • Offseason training included stops at the Nevada-Las Vegas and Redlands Camps
  • Has received an offer from the University of San Diego
  • Invited to and participated in the Allegiance Athletics Offensive / Defensive Lineman Camp in March, 2022
  • Featured guest on the “Ike and Rome Show” on the No Line No Shine Network (April 5, 2022)
  • Participated in ongoing training at PTP Sports and Team Elite Sports Academy - Team Elite 91 (T.E.S.A.) during offseason
  • Invited to and participated in the National Prep Collegiate Showcase in April and June, 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the NICO Trenches Lineman Showcase in March, 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February, 2022. Recognized as a “Top Showcase Performer” by PrepRedzone.com and recognized by 247sports.com’s Greg Biggins for a “strong showing” at the event
  • Fall 2021 All-CIF-Southern Section Division 11 Football selection
  • Attended Jesse Sapolu’s “Men in the Trenches” (MITT) Linemen Academy in February, 2022

Ethan “E.J.” Thomas
#77 | Offensive Lineman | Sophomore

  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) National Lineman Showcase 2022 So Cal Regional in February, 2022

Jace Brown
#85 | Wide Receiver | Sophomore | 6-2 / 186

  • Named as a “breakout candidate” on SMCHS roster by scorebooklive.com in season preview
  • Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Summer and Fall 2022
  • Listed on PrepRedzone.com’s “Watch List” of state prospects at wide receiver position for Class of 2025 in Spring 2022

Kyle Brody
#88 | Tight End | Junior | 6-5 / 235

  • Ranked the No. 213 overall prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall 2022
  • Ranked the No. 145 overall prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Summer 2022
  • Offseason training included stops at the UCLA, Redlands and San Diego State Camps
  • Invited to and participated in the National Prep Collegiate Showcase in April, 2022
  • Ranked the No. 147 overall prospect and No. 2 tight end in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
  • Registered 12 pass receptions for 81 yards (6.8 average) and one touchdown in Fall 2021

Mason Schuster
#95 | Kicker | Senior | 5-11 / 175

  • Offseason training included the Auburn Specialist Camp
  • Invited to and participated in several kicking specialty camps during the offseason:
    - Kohl’s Arizona Kicking Camp held in Mesa, Arizona in February, 2022
    - Chris Sailer’s Kicking Camp held in Las Vegas, Nevada in February, 2022
    - Kohl’s Texas Showcase Camp held in Ft. Worth, Texas in May, 2022
    - Achieved a kickoff long of 70-yards
  • In limited action in Fall 2021, was a perfect 4-of-4 on PATs
  • Is also a goalkeeper on the SMCHS soccer team

Collins Acheampong
#98 | Defensive End | Senior | 6-9 / 250

  • Ranked No. 45 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Ranked the No. 8 lineman in the County by the Orange County Register for 2022, while teammate Jalani Liva was the No. 7 selection
  • Ranked as a 3+ star recruit prospect by Tom Lemming, one of the top prep recruiting analysts in the country -- definite Division1 material
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County First-Team - Defense selection
  • Ranked the No. 3 Top Defensive Line prospect in Southern California by Cannon Sports USA / ELITE Sports Media Group Company
  • Selected to and participated in the Under Armour Next Future 50 All-American Camp at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida -- drew a great deal of media attention
  • Has committed to play at Michigan. Also received offers from Miami (Florida), Arizona, Brigham Young, California, Colorado, Florida, LSU, Oregon, San Diego State, San Jose State, Florida A&M, Texas, UCLA, USC, Vanderbilt, Utah and Washington
  • Will see playing time at tight end. Ranked No. 45 overall and No. 3 tight end prospect in state by QB Hit List (qbhitlist.com) for Class of 2023, although majority of playing time will be seen on defense
  • No. 26 ranked prospect in state “Hot 100” from Class of 2024 by Cal-Hi Sports
  • Has not played football since his freshman year when he racked up 51 tackles (15 for loss) and nine sacks
  • Comes into the season rated the nation’s No. 17 athlete and No. 298 overall prospect by one outlet

Tyler Parker
#99 | Defensive Tackle / Nose Guard | Sophomore | 6-1 / 300

  • MaxPreps.com Preseason Sophomore All-American Second-Team Defense selection
  • Ranked the No. 17 overall and No. 1 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Fall 2022
  • Ranked No. 145 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2022
  • Cal-Hi Sports Fall 2022 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Defense selection
  • Ranked the No. 12 Top Defensive Line prospect in Southern California by Cannon Sports USA / ELITE Sports Media Group Company
  • Has received offers from Portland State, Mississippi, Texas A&M, Arizona, Incarnate Word, Miami (Florida), Jackson State, California, Colorado and Notre Dame. Attracted interest from Tennessee and Oregon
  • Kudos from Eric Sondheimer of the Los Angels Times: “Tyler Parker of Santa Margarita is only a sophomore, but he has everyone’s attention because of his strength” (August 4, 2022)
  • Online feature at si.com (Sports Illustrated) -- “Getting to Know 2025 Defensive Lineman Tyler Parker” (by Ryan Roberts - July 24, 2022)
  • Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Summer 2022
  • As a result of his viral video, Parker was invited to and appeared on the NBC television show “Access Hollywood” and was interviewed by host Mario Lopez
  • Mid-Summer workout video and photos went viral worldwide as Parker stunned viewers who awed at his hulking physique. Highlighted in online feature by scorebooklive.com where he was described as a “Teen Hulk Recruit”
  • Offseason training included stop at USC Camp
  • Invited to and participated in the PPI Recruits DreamChasers Tour 1 @ Mercer, LSU, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Southern Methodist, Houston, TCU, Alabama, Kennesaw State, West Virginia, Penn State, Temple, Youngstown State, Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, Kent State, Kentucky and Atlanta, Georgia in June, 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the Allegiance Athletics Camp in Huntington Beach in May, 2022 and was named the Most Valuable Player - Defensive Line. Impressed staff who described the 14-year-old as “crazy strong!”
  • Invited to the ESPN 300 Elite Underclassmen Camp in Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Invited to and participated in the National Prep Collegiate Showcase in April, 2022. Selected as one of the “Top 5 Defensive Linemen” from a field of 20 at camp -- the youngest of all participants
  • Cited by PredRedzone.com (Michael Huntley - April 11, 2022) as being part of the most improved team in the Trinity League for Fall 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the Allegiance Athletics Offensive / Defensive Lineman Camp in May, 2022
  • Has been clocked at 4.90 in the 40-yard dash
  • Invited to and participated in the National Prep Collegiate Showcase in April, 2022
  • Invited to and participated in the Giant Skillz Athletics - (B.O.S.S.) Skillz Camp in March, 2022. Recognized by 247sports.com’s Greg Biggins and PrepRedzone.com’s Michael Huntley for a “strong showing” at the event
  • Listed on PrepRedzone.com’s “Watch List” of state prospects at defensive line position for Class of 2025 in Spring 2022
  • Ranked in top five list of defensive line prospects in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2025 in Winter 2022
  • A member of the SMCHS wrestling team
THIS WEEK’S OPPONENT: SAN JUAN HILLS

SMCHS Season Game No. 1 / Non-League Game No. 1
Game Date: Friday, August 19, 2022 @ Stallion Stadium (“The Badlands” - SJH Campus), 7:30 p.m.
School Location: San Juan Capistrano, California
Nickname: Stallions
Head Coach: Robert Frith (64-36 -- .640)
2021 Fall Season: 3-7 Overall | 1-2 South Coast League (3rd)
Note: Transferred from South Coast League to Sea View League for 2022 season
All-Time Series: 1 Game - Santa Margarita Catholic leads 1-0-0
Last Game / SMCHS Win: 2021 -- Santa Margarita Catholic won 38-14 @ Saddleback College
Players to Watch:

  • Weston Port - Defensive End / Linebacker (Sophomore)
  • Michael “Butter” Tollefson - Quarterback (Sophomore)
  • Brayden Bockler - Wide Receiver (Senior)
  • Trevor Newkirk - Tackle (Junior)

Spotlight: Linebacker Weston was only a ninth-grader last season when he burst on the prep gridiron scene. He earned All-Orange County Second-Team - Defense honors with 91 tackles, 25 tackles for loss and 12 quarterback sacks. His list of freshman accolades was impressive even for an experienced -- MaxPreps Freshman All-American First-Team, Los Angeles Times First-Team All-Star – Defense and garnered invites to various camps such as the ESPN Elite Underclassman Camp and the Adidas All-American Game. Currently Ports has 19 Division I offers including Michigan, Texas A&M, Georgia, Ohio State and Florida State to name a few. Eagle fans will remember this young star as he made his varsity debut at Saddleback College with two quarterback sacks against SMC. Port was also named a varsity team captain -- an extremely rare honor for a freshman.

Previous Game Summary (08/20/21): After five years of waiting, Santa Margarita Catholic returned to its traditional home field, Saddleback College (SC) Stadium, to open the Fall 2021 football season. A crowd estimated at 5,500 strong turned out to see the Eagles host neighboring San Juan Hills (San Juan Capistrano). Coach Rouzier’s men came out fiery and tenacious, on offense and defense, as they put 35 points on the scoreboard, including 28 in the second quarter to take a commanding lead by halftime over the Stallions. This proved to be more than enough in the 38-14 victory. Offensively, SMCHS was led by junior quarterback Jaxon Potter who tallied 294-yards -- the second-most ever for an Eagle quarterback in his debut. Perhaps the biggest surprise came from the running back position. Junior Jake Foye proved to be a workhorse as he gained 181 yards on 21 attempts (8.6 average). In all, SMCHS gained 497-yards of total offense. The Eagles defense was also in the spotlight as they were able to keep the Stallion’s three highly touted receivers in check, allowing them a total of just seven receptions for 74 yards. San Juan’s quarterback faced pressure all night from the SMCHS rush and threw three interceptions. Foye was selected as the Offensive Player of the Week while Blake Wilson the Defensive Player of the Week.

Game Broadcast:
Live cable television: Bally Sports So Cal “CIF-SS Ford Game of the Week” at 7:30 p.m.

NEXT WEEK’S OPPONENT: NORCO

SMCHS Season Game No. 2 / Non-League Game No. 2
Game Date: Friday, August 26, 2021 @ Saddleback College, 7:00 p.m. Home Opener
School Location: Norco, California
Nickname: Cougars
Head Coach: Chuck Chastain (59-28 -- .678)
2021 Fall Season: 8-3 Overall | 4-1 Big VIII League (2nd) | 0-1 CIF-Southern Section Division 1 Playoffs
Last Week: N/A - First game of season
All-Time Series: 3 Games - Santa Margarita Catholic leads 2-1-0
Last Game: 2021 -- Norco won 40-22 @ Norco
Last SMCHS Win: 2001 -- Santa Margarita Catholic won 41-22 @ Saddleback College
Players to Watch:

  • Grant Gray - Wide Receiver (Senior)
  • Tyler Dudden - Quarterback (Junior)
  • Kalani Kaleiwahea - Running Back (Senior)
  • Chase Miller - Linebacker (Senior)
  • Tobias Johnson - Linebacker (Senior)
  • Matthew Verdiell - Kicker (Senior)

Spotlight: Last fall, All CIF-Southern Section Division 1 receiver Grant Gray led the Cougars with 61 catches for 956 yards (15.7 average) and 10 touchdowns to help Norco earn a spot in the CIF-SS playoffs. In the spring, he was the baseball team’s table setter from the lead off position. Gray batted .352 with a team-high 35 runs scored in helping the Cougars claim their first Big VIII League title since 2015. He reached base safely in 23 of the twenty-nine games played and registered at least one hit in 21 of those contests. For his high level athletic ability, Gray was named the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin’s Inland Empire “Boys Athlete of the Year.”

Previous Game Summary (08/26/21): The schedule got more difficult for the Eagles as they headed east on the 91 Freeway to the Inland Empire for a Thursday date at Norco. The Cougars came into the contest 0-5 versus Trinity League schools in recent seasons. That list included Servite, Orange Lutheran and St. John Bosco. After two quarters of play, it looked like SMCHS would keep that streak in tact, as they led 16-13. But Norco’s luck would change after intermission as they came out of the locker room charged-up. The Panthers gained momentum as they put together a solid mix of running and passing drives en route to a 40-22 win. Defensively, Norco would stymie the Eagles with solid line play, holding them to just 11 yards rushing in the second half. SMCHS quarterback Jaxon Potter did pass for 247 yards on 19-of-39 attempts (48.7%) and two touchdowns. He found Niko Lopez in the end zone for the second-consecutive game. Sophomore Kyle Brody caught his first-career touchdown pass, as well. Nick Gallegos led the team in receiving yards with 94. Defensively, Donovan Comestro and Benjamin Durham led the club with 12 total tackles each. Defensive tackle Hero Kanu had three quarterback hurries and two tackles-for-loss. On special teams, two kickers combined to connect for three field goals. Jonathan Connor Teasley hit from 41 and 33 yards out, while Blake Wilson was successful from 46 yards.

Game Broadcast:
Live stream on Bally’s Prep Zone

TRINITY LEAGUE

This Week’s Trinity League Schedule

Friday, August 19, 2022
Servite (Anaheim) @ Rancho Cucamonga, 7:00 p.m.
Serra (Gardena) vs. Lutheran (Orange) @ Orange Coast College (Costa Mesa), 7:00 p.m. <Bally’s Sports live stream>
Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth) @ JSerra Catholic (San Juan Capistrano), 7:00 p.m.
West (Salt Lake City, Utah) vs. Mater Dei (Santa Ana) @ Santa Ana Bowl, 7:00 p.m.

St. John Bosco (Bellflower) -- Bye / Opens Friday, August 26 @ Allen (Texas) (Eagle Stadium), 7:00 p.m. CT

IN-HOUSE EAGLE MEDIA COVERAGE


“Eagles 360 with Natalie Miller”

*  “Postgame Report” - Released Monday’s
*  “The Extra Point” - Released Wednesday’s
*  “End Zone Insight” - Selected In-Season Weekly Game Notes

YouTube Channel: Natalie Miller Sports
Instagram: @nataliemillersports
Twitter: @NatalieMSports

 


with Host Paul Higgins

HEAD COACH Anthony Rouzier

Anthony Rouzier begins his third season as the Head Varsity Coach at Santa Margarita Catholic High School. Prior to taking the reigns of the program in the spring of 2021, Rouzier coached at SMCHS for three seasons, first serving as the linebacker coach and then as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator. The path to Head Coach started on August 27, 2020 when Rouzier was named on an interim basis. On February 5, 2021, Rouzier was named fulltime Head Coach by school President Andy Sulick.

Rouzier played collegiately at the University of Connecticut in 2005. There he was the first true freshman walk-on to start in the Division-era of the school. He then transferred to the University of Massachusetts as a scholarship athlete and was a member of two Colonial Athletic Conference championships teams. In the classroom, Rouzier earned All-Academic All-Conference honors in 2007 and 2008.

After his collegiate playing days, in 2014, Rouzier coached at Amherst Regional High School (Massachusetts) where he started as the linebacker coach and was promoted to Defensive Coordinator mid-season. Rouzier then proceeded to coach the outside linebackers at Winston-Salem State University (North Carolina) in the spring of 2015. Shortly after that, he returned as a graduate assistant at his Alma Mater, the University of Massachusetts. There he worked with the defensive backs in 2015 and linebackers in 2016.

Rouzier then found his way to Europe to coach with the Hamburg Huskies of the German Football League. There, in 2017, he was the interim Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator. For his success, Rouzier was promoted to and accepted the Head Coaching position. Rouzier was also the Defensive Coordinator for the Under-17 Hamburg State All-Star team and worked with a recruiting service that helped European prospects earn Division 1 college scholarships in the United States. One of the other German coaches was current SMCHS assistant coach Sean Embree. It was Embree who convinced Rouzier that coaching at SMCHS would be worth his while and he soon found his way to South Orange County.

Born and raised in Massachusetts, Rouzier married his wife Elwira, who he met in Germany in 2018. He holds Juris Doctor and Master’s of Business Administration degrees from Florida International University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Massachusetts. He is the co-creator of a children’s book and non-profit organization that promotes health and wellness.

Over the recent offseason, Coach Rouzier and his talented staff have developed an innovative approach to expand the depth and breadth of the program. These activities and processes include:

  • Individual player participation in over 55 camps, showcases and events throughout the West
  • Scheduling almost one dozen 7-on-7 passing tournaments and scrimmages between all levels of the program
  • Conducting multiple offsite team building and leadership events
  • Improvement of communication pipeline with a myriad of team information being offered. For example: first-ever preseason team newsletter
  • Development and support of dedicated student-produced media programming covering all aspects of the team.

Compiled by Chuck Nan
Statistics by Shane Mielke