Leuzinger - Game Notes
SMCHS Eagles (3-1) vs Leuzinger Olympians (3-1)
at Saddleback College (Mission Viejo, California)
Friday, September 15, 2023 - 7:00 p.m.
Original PDF
RECAP OF LAST WEEK @ Bishop Amat
In the 35-years of Santa Margarita Catholic football, there have been many exciting comebacks and numerous games packed with historical achievements. Thursday at Bishop Amat in La Puente was a rare and unique game that was filled with both. The Lancers have a rich and successful tradition on the gridiron and is always a tough place to play. The Eagles found this to be true early.
After going on a distant road trip the previous week and capturing a win, SMCHS was away from home once again on a short week of preparation. As they fell behind in a 21-0 hole by the early second quarter, Coach Rouzier and staff challenged their club to regroup and turn the table. From that point in the contest, the team responded with vigor and urgency to put themselves in a position to succeed. Indeed the Eagles prevailed 51-45 with the execution of some timely plays. The offense was led by Trent Mosley’s inspiring and dominant play (see below). The defense was able to smother any chance of an Amat comeback win with key stops down the stretch.
The victory was historic in many ways and pushed SMCHS’s season record to 3-1 before the last nonleague game this week. After a bye week, the Eagles then commence the rugged Trinity League schedule. A few of the remarkable highlights and school records from the contest include:
Team
- Largest deficit overcome to win - 21 points
- Second-most combined points in single game by two schools - 96
Trent Mosley
- Perhaps the best all-around individual performance in a single game in SMCHS history
- Tied school record for most touchdowns scored in a single game with six (Also Ryan Wolpin in 2012 vs. Carson)
- Tied school record for most touchdowns accounted for in a single game with six (with 5 others)
- Tied school record for most 2-point conversions accounted for in a single game with two (Also Ryan Maxwell in 2005 @ Kealakehe (Hawaii)
- Tied school record for most receiving touchdowns in a single game with three. Held by many and achieved in several instances
- Mosley and teammate Sean Embree each broke the 100-yard threshold for receiving yards in a game for the second-consecutive week
John Gazzaniga
- The best passing debut of any quarterback in SMCHS history by John Gazzaniga: 20-of-30 (66.7%), 377 yards and four touchdown passes. Overall, his effort tied for the twelfth-best single game in school all-time
- Gazzaniga (377) and Hunter Melton (27) combined for 406 total passing yards -- the eleventh time in school history with team passing for 400-or-more yards
Other Performance Highlights
- Sean Embree: Eight receptions, 144 yards (18.0 average) and one touchdown, including a 77-yard bomb from Gazzaniga
- Jack Junker: Freshman enjoyed the best game of his early career with five receptions for 89 yards (17.8 average)
- Skylar Lendsey: Registered 106 all-purpose yards, besting the triple-digit threshold for the second time this season
- Daniel Romano: Notched first career interception
- Gage Burnett: Eight tackles (2 for loss) and one sack
- Noah Sulick: Nine tackles (1 for loss)
- LeVar Talley: One sack
PLAYER NOTES, HIGHLIGHTS & STATS
Skylar Lendsey
#0 | Running Back | Sophomore | 5-10 / 190
- Registered 106 all-purpose yards, besting the triple-digit threshold for the second time this season in win at Bishop Amat
- The talented sophomore rushed for a career tying best of 92 yards (also vs. Norco in 2022) on 17 attempts (5.4 average) against West. Also caught one touchdown pass
- Named in the first rankings for the class of 2026 by PrepRedzone.com - State Overall: 104 | State Position: 4 | National: Watch List
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
- Lauded by Micheal Huntley in the Orange County Register as a key underclass contributor for the Eagles (10/26/22)
- Contributed a game-high 81 yards on four attempts (20.3 average), with a long of 60 yards, in huge win over Servite
- Recognized by PrepRedzone.com and anaylst Jake Lemming as one of the Top 7 “Emerging Freshmen Running Backs in the Country.” The scouting report:
- Able to stick his foot in the dirt and generate immediate acceleration
- Can get downhill FAST
- Shows almost no deceleration when working through arm tackles
- Has reliable hands as a receiving threat out of the backfield
- Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2026 in Fall 2022
- Rushed for 92 yards in second-career varsity game in big win over Norco in 2022
Gage Burnett
#1 | Outside Linebacker / Long Snapper | Senior | 6-0 / 223
- Continued strong defensive presence with eight tackles (2 for loss) and one sack in big win at Bishop Amat
- Made the game-saving play when he burst into the backfield to tackle the runner and thwart a 2-point conversion attempt in win over West
- Ranked No. 85 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023
- Ranked the No. 159 overall and No. 19 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall, 2023
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- Cited by Greg Biggins of 247sports.com and Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as one of the Top Performers at the Allegiance Athletics Linemen Showcase in Spring
- Invited to and participated the prestigious 2023 Rivals Camp Series held in mid-March at Warren HS (Downey)
- Ranked the No. 31 prospect in the nation and No. 4 in the state by collegefootballnow.org in Winter, 2023 at his position for the Class of 2024
- Offseason training included workouts, camps and showcases with Giant Skillz and Under The Radar
- Selected as the Gauntlet Award winner -- given to the junior who will carry the torch for leadership next season
- 2022 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense
- In his first game in an SMCHS uniform, after transfer, logged five tackles (1 for loss) and one sack in loss to Orange Lutheran
- 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
- Transferred to SMCHS during the winter semester from Servite
- Ranked the No. 71 overall prospect and No. 10 at linebacker in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter 2022
- ★★★★ recruit with 4 Division 1 offers from Army-West point, Arizona, Fordham and Massachusetts
- Played in all 13 games for Servite in Fall 2021 and registered 38 tackles, two sacks and recovered two fumbles
John Gazzaniga
#1 | Quarterback | Junior | 6-7 / 238
- Had the best passing debut of any quarterback in SMCHS history: 20-of-30 (66.7%), 377 yards and four touchdown passes. Overall, this tied for the twelfth-best single game in school all-time
- Transfer from Orange Lutheran this Fall
- Spent two seasons on the varsity team for the Lancers
- As a freshman, was 20-of-54 passing (37.0%) for 237 yards and threw touchdowns
- As a sophomore, didn’t see any time at quarterback but had two rush attempts for four yards and one score
- Has Division 1 offers from Arizona, Massachusetts and Akron
- With size at 6-7 and 238 pounds, was a key played on the basketball team
- Has been clocked at 4.60 in the 40-yard-dash
- PrepRedzone.com ranks - State-Overall: No. 147 / State-Position: No. 22
Trent Mosley
#5 | Wide Receiver | Sophomore | 5-11 / 155
- Mosley is currently third in the state in touchdowns scored and fifth in the nation.
- Followed up memorable performance with another spectacular, record breaking game @ Bishop Amat: Rushing: 6 carries for 33 yards (5.5 average) and three touchdowns / Receiving: 9 receptions for 144 yards (16.0 average) and 3 touchdowns
- Tied school record for most touchdowns scored in a single game with six (Also Ryan Wolpin in 2012 vs. Carson)
- Tied school record for most touchdowns accounted for in a single game with six (with 5 others)
- Tied school record for most 2-point conversions accounted for in a single game with two (Also Ryan Maxwell in 2005 @ Kealakehe (Hawaii)
- Tied school record for most receiving touchdowns in a single game with three. Held by many and achieved in several instances
- Mosley and teammate Sean Embree each broke the 100-yard threshold for receiving yards in a game for the second-consecutive week
- Had best game of young career thus far in win at Liberty (Bakersfield) -- three carries for 40 yards (13.3 average) and two touchdowns and nine receptions for 187 yards (20.8 average) and two touchdowns. Nominated for Cal-Hi Sports Player / Stat Star of the Week
- Scored two additional rushing touchdowns is loss to Centennial. Has four scores on the ground this season -- had three receiving scores in 2022
- Was a dynamic presence in win over West as he gained just six yards on four attempts but scored twice, also hauled in eight receptions for 75 yards and gained 54 yards on kick-off returns -- a total of 135 all-purpose yards. The five reception were a new career-high
- Ranked No. 30 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023
- Named the No. 6 wide receiver/tight end in Orange County for the 2023 season by journalist Dan Albano
- Selected as an Underclass All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) for 2023 season
- Cal-Hi Sports 2023 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Multi-Purpose
- Ranked the No. 11 prospect in the nation and No. 3 in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2026 in Spring, 2023
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- Praised by Dan Albano of the Orange County Register as “Showing His Burst” two long touchdowns at the “Battle of he Beach” in July
- Ranked the No. 26 prospect in the nation and No. 7 in the state by collegefootballnow.org in Winter, 2023 at his position for the Class of 2026
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Frosh Watch List
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Offense
- 2022 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Offense
- Logged 94 yards on five receptions (18.8 average) in CIF-SS Division 1 loss to JSerra Catholic -- a career-high. Also scored one touchdown (71 yards). Cited as a “Top Performer” by prepredzone.com
- Registered second career touchdown versus St. John Bosco in regular season finale
- Lauded by Micheal Huntley in the Orange County Register as a key underclass contributor for the Eagles (10/26/22)
- Along with brother Emmett, scored a touchdown in defeat to Los Alamitos in 2022. In doing so, they became the first set of brothers at SMCHS to achieve this since Brad and Brian Finneran did so, four times, in 1992
- Along with teammates Bain Eiseman and Emmett Mosley (brother), notched over 100 receiving yards in loss at Los Alamtios
- Selected as a “Watch List” candidate by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2026 in Fall 2022
- 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, USC, San Diego State, Stanford and Notre Dame
Luke Anderson
#8 | Defensive Back | Junior | 6-0 / 170
- Led the team with nine tackles in win versus West
- Coach Rouz cited Anderson as being an impact player for the team in 2023 after his performance at the “Battle of the Beach”
- In first varsity start, registered three assisted tackles in win at San Juan Hills in 2022
- Saw action in two varsity games in 2021. In 42-21 win over Los Alamitos, had one kickoff return for six yards and notched four total tackles
- In a freshman game versus Los Alamitos, scored a long rushing touchdown, made a key block for a teammate that led to a score and played solid defense in a 53-0 victory
James Johnson
#9 | Quarterback | Junior | 6-1 / 175
- Was 4-of-5 for 57 yards in his first start as an Eagle. Suffered an injury on the final play of the first quarter versus West (Salt Lake City)
- Ranked No. 90 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- Transferred to SMCHS at start of Spring semester after attending Servite as a sophomore and Mater Dei as a freshman
- Played in a handful of games in 2022 at Servite. Highlight moment was a 77-yard touchdown pass to Tyler McCown, but the Friars fell to Helix (La Mesa), 38-31
- Saw action in five games at Mater Dei in freshman seaosn (2021) where he was 5-of-10 for 49 yards
Emmett Mosley
#10 | Defensive Back | Senior | 6-0 / 205
- Ranked the No. 28 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall, 2023
- Named the No. 16 senior recruit in the state by Cal-Hi Sports in their fall 2023 “Hot 100” list
- Despite injury, selected as a Preseason All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) for 2023 season
- Cal-Hi Sports 2023 Preseason All-Orange County Third-Team
- Selected as a Senior All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) for 2023 season
- Has committed to play in the annual All-American Bowl at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas -- nationally televised live on NBC and Peacock -- features the nation’s top 100 high school football players
- Committed to Stanford
- Ranked the No. 16 overall and No. 2 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Spring, 2023
- Electric highlights of 2022 season posted on MaxPreps.com
- Ranked the No. 2 overall and No. 13 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter, 2023
- 2022 Prep Redzone All-Southern California Junior Team - Offense
- Ranked the No. 28 prospect in the nation and No. 12 in the state by collegefootballnow.org in Winter, 2023 at his position for the Class of 2024
- Represented by Cannon Sports USA / ELITE Sports Media Group Company -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zguG2NyPpU
- Named the No. 3 in California and No. 24 recruit in the nation at wide receiver by QB Hit List for the Class of 2024 in January, 2023 (★★★★)
- Selected to the Division 1 CIF All-Southern Section Team
- Selected as an Underclass All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) in January, 2023
- 2022 All-Orange County (by Orange County Register) First-Team - Offense
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Offense
- 2022 All-Trinity League First-Team - Offense
- Selected SMCHS Offensive Most Valuable Player
- Registered 78 pass recptions for the season -- second-most in school history and most by a junior
| Most Pass Receptions Single Season - SMCHS - All-Time |
||
| RECEIVER | RECEPTIONS | SEASON |
| Kyle Sweet | 89 | 2014 |
| Emmett Mosley | 78 | 2022 |
| Brian Finneran | 74 | 1992 |
| John Minardi | 70 | 1997 |
| Conner Bianchini | 68 | 2014 |
| Brian Finneran | 67 | 1993 |
| Niko Lopez | 65 | 2021 |
- Gained 127 yards receiving with six receptions (21.2 average) and one touchdown in lopsided win over Servite in 2022. Cited as a “Top Performer” by prepredzone.com
- Hauled in 14 pass receptions for 156 yards and one touchdown in win over JSerra Catholic on 2022 Homecoming. The 14 catches are tied for second-most in a single game in school history. Cited as an “Other Top Performer” by PrepRedzone.com along with teammate Niko Lopez
| Most Pass Receptions Single Game - SMCHS All-Time |
|||
| RECEIVER | RECEPTIONS | OPPONENT | SEASON |
| Kyle Sweet | 15 | Dorsey (Los Angeles) | 2014 |
| Kyle Sweet | 15 | Orange Lutheran | 2014 |
| Emmett Mosley | 14 | JSerra Catholic | 2022 |
| Brian Finneran | 14 | @ Damien (La Verne) - CIF | 1993 |
| Grant Calcaterra | 14 | Loyola | 2016 |
- Online feature on gridironfootballusa.com -- “Top 300: Emmett Mosley” (By Lucas Berger -- September 26, 2022)
- In loss to Orange Lutheran, registered his second-consecutive game with three touchdown receptions. That is good for second-place, all alone, in program history. Cited as an “Other Top Performer” by PrepRedzone.com
| Most Receiving Touchdowns SMCHS - Single Game All-Time |
||
| RECEIVER | TD REC | TIMES ACHIEVED |
| John Minardi | 3 | 5 |
| Emmett Mosley | 3 | 2 |
| Six-Tied | 3 | 1 |
- Ranked as the No. 91 overall recruit prospect in the nation for the Class of 2024 by Tom Lemming, a top prep recruiting analyst in Fall 2022 (★★★★ +)
- Along with brother Trent, scored a touchdown in defeat to Los Alamitos. In doing so, they became the first set of brothers at SMCHS to achieve this since Brad and Brian Finneran did so, four times, in 1992
| Brothers Scoring Touchdowns SMCHS - Same Game All-Time |
||
| PLAYERS | OPPONENT | SEASON |
| Emmett Mosley | @ Los Alamitos | 2022 |
| Trent Mosley | ||
| Brad Finneran | @ Newport Harbor | 1992 |
| Brian Finneran | ||
| Brad Finneran | @ Tustin | 1992 |
| Brian Finneran | ||
| Brad Finneran | Buena Park | 1992 |
| Brian Finneran | ||
| Brad Finneran | St. John Bosco | 1992 |
| Brian Finneran | ||
- Along with teammates Bain Eiseman and Niko Lopez, notched over 100 receiving yards in loss at Los Alamtios in 2022 (146). Tied a school record with three touchdown receptions in a single game. Named a “Top So Cal Star” by scorebooklive.com and nominated for So Cal Sports Athlete of the Week plus cited as an “Other Top Performer” by PrepRedzone.com
- Ranked as a one of the premier underclass wide receiver recruit prospects in the West by Tom Lemming, a top prep recruiting analyst in Summer 2022
- With nine eight catches versus Norco (2022), had second-consecutive game with eight-or-more receptions to start SMCHS career
- Had a solid performance in his fist game in an SMCHS uniform at San Juan Hills (Week 0 in 2022) -- 9 receptions for 94 yards and one touchdown. Cited by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for “Honorable Mention” performance
- Cal-Hi Sports 2022 Preseason All-State Third-Team - Defense (DB)
- 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
- Transferred to SMCHS during the winter semester from Servite
- 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
- Received offers from Alabama, Arizona, Arizona State, Georgia, Colorado, LSU, Oregon, Penn State, USC, Clemson, Iowa, Texas, Utah, Texas A&M, Washington, Massachusetts, Michigan State, California, UCLA, Miami (Florida), Stanford 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 End / Linebacker | Senior | 6-3 / 210
- Logged one sack in huge win at Bishop Amat
- Contributed on defense as SMCHS defeated Liberty (Bakersfield) – two tackles for loss and one sack
- Collected his eleventh career sack in the victory against West
- Named by Eric Sondheimer of the Los Angeles Times as a Linebacker to Watch this Fall in Southland Football
- Ranked No. 69 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023
- Ranked the No. 77 overall and No. 11 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall, 2023
- Named the No. 68 senior recruit in the state by Cal-Hi Sports in their fall 2023 “Hot 100” list
- Selected as a Preseason All-American by Lemming Prep Football Report (Tom Lemming) for 2023 season
- ★★★ + recruit who has committed to Nevada and also had offers from Louisville, Colorado, Georgia, Virginia Tech, Florida State, Pittsburgh, Nevada-Las Vegas and USC. Has made unofficial visits to USC, UCLA, Fresno State, Washington and Oregon
- Cal-Hi Sports 2023 Preseason All-Orange County Second-Team - Defense
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- Invited to and participated in the Under Armour Next Camp showcase in April
- Solidified by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as one of the top uncommitted recruits in Southern California in Winter, 2023
- Ranked the No. 3 overall and No. 26 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Winter, 2023
- Ranked the No. 51 prospect in the nation and No. 6 in the state by collegefootballnow.org in Winter, 2023 at his position for the Class of 2024
- Represented by Cannon Sports USA / ELITE Sports Media Group Company -- www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCSMF70ySQc
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Defense
- 2022 All-Trinity League First-Team - Defense
- Selected as team captain for the season -- only junior class player
- Collected one sack in CIF-SS Division 1 loss to JSerra Catholic last season, brining season total to 5 1/2 which led club. Also contributed 6 1/2 tackles for loss
- Logged five tackles (2 1/2 for loss) and 1 1/2 sacks, bringing his career total to 9 for SMCHS, in the 2022 loss to Mater Dei
- Cited as a “Top Performer” by prepredzone.com for effort in win over Servite in 2022
- Registered one sack in win over JSerra Catholic on 2022 Homecoming
- Ranked as a one of the premier underclass linebacker recruit prospects in the West by Tom Lemming, a top prep recruiting analyst
- scorebooklive.com (SBLive) 2022 Preseason All-State Third-Team - Defense selection
- scorebooklive.com (SBLive) 2022 Preseason All-Southern Section Second-Team - Defense selection
- 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
- 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 in 2021. Recognized by the Orange County Register’s with “Huntley’s Hits” for Week 4
Izley Manutai
#13 | Wide Receiver / Defensive Back | Sophomore | 5-10 / 160
- Transferred from Desert Pines (Las Vegas, Nevada)
- On varsity team as a freshman, collected 4 receptions for 59 yards and one touchdown
Lennie “Trey” Brown
#15 | Safety | Sophomore | 5-9 / 157
- Registered first career sack in loss to Orange Lutheran in 2022
Jack Junker
#16 | Wide Receiver | Freshman | 5-8 / 163
- Enjoyed the best game of his early career with five receptions for 89 yards (17.8 average)
Hayes Cloutier
#17 | Quarterback | Freshman | 6-1 / 170
- Saw first action of varsity career in win at Liberty (Bakersfield) in Week 2 and was 1-of-2 passing
- Was a standout and award winner at the two-day “Football University” camp held in FBU Las Vegas – Impressed coaches and was named to the All-Camp Team
Hunter Melton
#19 | Quarterback | Senior | 6-0 / 185
- 17-of-25 (68.0%) for 316 yards and three touchdowns vs the two-time defending CIF Central Section Division I champions and the 2022 CIF Division 1-A Bowl Game state champion Liberty Patriots
- Was 7-of-10 for 78 yards and one touchdown versus West (Salt Lake City) when called upon at the start of the second quarter for injured quarterback James Johnson. It was his first varsity action as he sat out last season as a result of an injury
Sean Embree
#21 | Tight End | Junior | 6-4 / 170
- In huge win at Bishop Amat, had eight receptions for 144 yards (18.0 average) and one touchdown -- a 77-yard bomb from quarterback John Gazzaniga
- Had breakout game in win at Liberty (Bakersfield), setting career highs with six catches for 124 yards (20.7 average). Also scored one touchdown
- ★★★ recruit
- Scored a special teams touchdown when the pounced on a blocked punt in the end zone in win versus West
- Praised by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com for impressive showing at the “Battle if the Beach”
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
- In first-ever game in a SMCHS uniform, registered two recpetions for 30 yards, including one touchdown on the opening drive in win over Norco in 2022
Logan Hirou
#22 | Defensive Back| Sophomore | 6-1
- Registered at least one interception for the second week in a row with a pick in big win at Liberty (Bakersfield)
- In just second varsity game, notched two interceptions, returning one 76 yards for a touchdown, in loss to Centennial. Cited by the Los Angeles Times (Eric Sondheimer) as one of the Top High School Performers for Week 1
Brock deFries
#24 | Defensive Back | Junior | 5-9 / 170
- National Preps Combine at NFL Pro Bowl in February, 2023 in Las Vegas
- Collected first career interception versus St. John Bosco in final game of regular season
- Blocked a punt in his first varsity game action versus Mullen (Colorado) in 2022
Aisa Taeleifi
#33 | Linebacker | Sophomore | 6-1 / 220
- Invited to and participated in the Gladiator 7on7 Series in Spring. Noted by Michael Huntley or PredRedzone.com as one of the to Class of 2024 Newcomers in Orange County
- Named in the first rankings for the class of 2026 by PrepRedzone.com - State Overall: 95 | State Position: 9 | National: Watch List
- Invited and participated in the National Preps Champion Showcase Series held in May
- Invited and participated in the Gladiator 7on7 Series! In late March
Daniel Romano
#35 | Defensive Back | Junior | 6-0 / 175
- Invited to and participated in the Gladiator 7on7 Series in Spring. Noted by Michael Huntley or PredRedzone.com as one of the to Class of 2024 Newcomers in Orange County
- Named in the first rankings for the class of 2026 by PrepRedzone.com - State Overall: 95 | State Position: 9 | National: Watch List
- Invited and participated in the National Preps Champion Showcase Series held in May
- Invited and participated in the Gladiator 7on7 Series! In late March
Noah Sulick
#43 | Linebacker | Senior | 6-0 / 205
- Collected nine tackles (1 for loss) in huge win at Bishop Amat
- Ranked No. 115 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Named one of the top players on the team by the Orange County Register for Fall 2023 -- “Mr. Steady”
- Cited by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as a top performer on the SMCHS defense in the “Battle of the Beach”
- During the offseason, visited Hawaii
- Selected by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as a “great fit” to play in the 2024 Orange County North-South All-Star Classic
- 2022 Cal-Hi Sports All-State Nominee - Defense
- 2022 All-Trinity League Second-Team - Defense
- Finished third on team with 70 tackles. Also registered four sacks
- Tied career-high for tackles in a game with 12 in CIF-SS Division 1 loss to JSerra Catholic last season
- Logged a team-leading 12 tackles in 2022 regular season finale versus St. John Bosco
- Had the best game of his career, thus far, as he registered five tackles (3 for loss), 2 /12 sacks and one quarterback hurry in victory over Mullen (Colorado) in 2022. Lauded by Michael Huntley of PrepRedzone.com as one of the Southern Section’s top defensive performers of the week
- Contributed a solid performance in the season-opening win at San Juan Hills with 10 total tackles (4 for loss) and one-and-a-half quarterback sacks. Praised by Mitch Stephens of scorebooklive.com and Michael Huntley of the Orange County Register - “Fear the “D”, SMCHS’s defense looked in midseason form”
- Noah is the third Sulick family member to wear the number 43, going along with uncle Tim ‘93 and brother Drew ’21 -- graduates from SMCHS. His father, also an SMCHS alumni, played football and wore number 72
- 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 2021 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.
Jayden Dose
#50 | Defensive Tackle | Senior | 5-10 / 229
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Defense
- 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 | Junior | 6-1 / 285
- Attended the Redlands Summer Camp Series in June, 2023 with more than 15 Division 1 scouts in attendance
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
- Invited to attend the 2022 U.S. Army Bowl National Combine in Frisco, Texas in mid-December
- Attended Jesse Sapolu’s “Men in the Trenches” (MITT) Linemen Academy in February and March, 2022
- A member of the SMCHS wrestling team
Zander “Tank” Benitez
#56 | Offensive Lineman | Senior | 6-1 / 260
- Invited to and participated in the Recruit My Lineman National Showcase in mid-March held in Westerville, Ohio
- 2023 offseason training included workouts, camps and showcases with Giant Skillz at the “Mecca” (5-on-5) in Atlanta and Utah
- 2022 offseason training included workouts, camps and showcases with Giant Skillz at the “Mecca” (5-on-5)
Judah Moenoa
#57 | DL/OL | Senior | 6-1 / 250
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Defense
- In first varsity game action, registered five tackles (2 for loss) and one sack in loss to Orange Lutheran
Joseph “Joey” Lopez
#64 | Offensive Lineman | Sophomore | 6-5 / 315
- Ranked the No. 116 overall prospect in the state for the Class of 2025 by PrepRedzone.com in Fall, 2023
- Named the “Top Offensive Performer” at “The Arrival Camp” in So Cal in early-February
- Has received offers from North Carolina-Charlotte University, Houston Christian and Jacksonville State
Ivan Pena
#72 | Offensive Tackle | Sophomore | 6-6 / 290
- Comes to SMCHS as one of the top rated players at his position by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2026 in Nevada: No. 12 prospect overall and No. 2 prospect at position
Jacob Maiava
#75 | Offensive Lineman / Defensive Lineman | Junior | 6-2 / 290
- Leads team with 13 decleaters
Ethan “E.J.” Thomas
#77 | Offensive Lineman | Junior | 6-4 / 298
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
Ryan Gass
#86 | Junior | Kicker
- Was a perfect 4-for-4 in PATs in varsity debut versus West
Kyle Brody
#88 | Tight End | Senior | 6-4 / 235
- Ranked No. 126 by Orange County Register of Hot 150 Top Impact Players for Fall 2023
- Ranked the No. 204 overall and No. 9 position prospect in the state by PrepRedzone.com for Class of 2024 in Fall, 2023
- Cal-Hi Sports 2023 Preseason All-Orange County Third-Team
- Has committed to play at the United States Air Force Academy
- Noted as one of the possible breakout stars of the upcoming 2023 season by Eric Sondheimer of the Los Angeles Times
- Named the No. 3 in California and No. 62 recruit in the nation at tight end by QB Hit List for the Class of 2024 in January, 2023 (★★★)
- Has received offers from Nevada-Las Vegas, San Jose State, Sacramento State and Pitt
- 2022 All-Trinity League Honorable Mention - Offense
- 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
Cameron Brickle II
#90 | Defensive Tackle | Sophomore | 6-3 / 275
- Transfer from Malvern Prep (Malvern, Pennsylvania)
- Ranked a 5-star prospect by Rivals.com
- Has received 12 Division 1 offers: Boston College, Connecticut, Maryland, Penn State, Pittsburgh, Rutgers, Syracuse, Temple, Tennessee, USC, West Virginia and Wisconsin
- 2022 season stats: 29 total tackles, 3 tackles for a loss and 3 passes defended
Bobby Ortiz
#92 | Defensive End | Senior | 6-9 / 250
- Transfer from St. Bonaventure (Ventura)
- Saw limited action with the Seraphs on the varsity club during the 2021 and 2022 seasons
J.J. Hanne
#97 | Defensive End | Junior
- Registered eight tackles with 1 1/2 sacks in win over West
THIS WEEK’S OPPONENT: Leuzinger
SMCHS Season Game No. 5 / Nonleague Game No. 5
Game Logistics: Friday, September 15, 2023 @ Saddleback College (Mission Viejo), 7:00 p.m.
School Location: Lawndale, California
Nickname: Olympians
Head Coach: Alvin Steen -- First season at school (Replaced Brandon Manumaleuna who is now team’s offensive coordinator)
2022 Record: 6-7 Overall | 4-1 Ocean League (2nd) | 2-1 CIF-SS Division 5 Playoffs
2023 Record: 3-1
Last Week’s Game: @ Loyola (Los Angeles), won 35-14
All-Time Series: First-ever meeting
Players to Watch:
- Damonte Bias | Athlete | Senior
- Daijon Callimon | Wide Receiver | Senior
- Samu Moala | Linebacker | Sophomore
- Brishon Durden | Defensive Lineman | Senior
2023 Outlook: In 2022, the Olympians went through their tough nonleague schedule and eventually made their way to the CIF-SS Division 5 semifinals. Leuzinger actually came within one point of advancing to the Division championship game last season. The Olympians will be playing on campus this season, led by Alvin Steen who replaces Brandon Manumaleuna as coach. Wide receiver Daijon Calimon has transferred back and linebacker Samu Moala should have another big season.
NEXT WEEK’S OPPONENT: St. John Bosco
SMCHS Season Game No. 6 / Trinity League Game No. 1
Game Logistics: Friday, September 15, 2023 @ Saddleback College (Mission Viejo), 7:00 p.m.
School Location: Bellflower, California
Nickname: Braves
Head Coach: Jason Negro - 145-28 (.838) - 14th Season at SJB
2022 Record: Overall: 13-1 | Trinity League: 4-1 (2nd-Place) | CIF-SS Division 1: 4-0 (Champions) and National Champions
2023 Record: 4-0
Last Week’s Game: Won 37-14 vs. St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, Maryland)
This Week’s Game: @ Kahuku (Hawaii)
All-Time Series: St. John Bosco leads 17-10-0
Last Game: St. John Bosco won 56-14
Last SMCHS Win: 28-20 @ Saddleback College - 2011
Players to Watch:
- Ashtin Kana’i Kekahuna-Lopes | Linebacker | Senior
- Cameron Jones | Running Back | Senior
- Chauncey Sylvester | Running Back | Senior
- Jason Mitchell | Defensive Back | Senior
- Jordan Lockhart | Linebacker | Senior
- Kamryn Jones | Wide Receiver | Junior
- Khalil Warren | Running Back | Senior
- Khmori House | Linebacker | Senior
- Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa | Linebacker | Senior
- Marcelles Williams | Cornerback | Senior
- Peyton Woodyard | Safety | Senior
2023 Summary: The Braves finished 13-1 last season, beat Mater Dei 24-22 in the CIF-SS Division 1 championship game at the Rose Bowl and won the program’s third mythical high school football national championship since 2013. The main questions for head coach Jason Negro (who needs eight wins to earn the 200th milestone win of his career) and his staff surround the offense. Quarterback Pierce Clarkson is now at Louisville so it will be Caleb Sanchez looking to step up at starter. The Bosco schedule this season is a backbreaker in that it seems to us will be a national record for miles traveled. The team has one trip for August 26 to play St. Thomas Aquinas (Ft. Lauderdale, Florida) and then on September 16 will be going to Hawaii to play Kahuku. All those miles and the team the Braves likely will have to beat to win another national title is that same one they’ve been dealing with the past eight years and that’s just down the road about 20 miles in Santa Ana.
Compiled by Chuck Nan
Statistics by Shane Mielke
