West Valley League Football Teams Prepare for Competitive Season
Football media day brought excitement and anticipation for six teams in the West Valley League on Saturday at Granada Hills. Coaches and players alike are optimistic, believing that this season could showcase the league as the most competitive in the City Section. With the defending league champion, Birmingham, holding an impressive 49-game winning streak against City Section opponents, teams like Cleveland, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, Taft, and El Camino Real are eager to make an impact in the playoffs.
Cleveland’s Rising Stars
Cleveland High School is poised to challenge for second place in the league this year, armed with a talented group of junior players. Notably, running back Moyosoreoluwa Odebunmi and linebacker Oluwafemi Okeola, who were both born in Nigeria, are among the athletes to watch. In a recent scrimmage against Van Nuys, Odebunmi showcased his skills by scoring a touchdown on his first varsity carry. He expressed his excitement, saying, “When I scored, I was like, ‘Oh wow,’ but I know it’s not going to be easy.” This resilience and determination could make Cleveland a formidable opponent.
Birmingham’s Mighty Giants
Birmingham continues to dominate, boasting an imposing offensive line filled with players weighing around 300 pounds. Coach Jim Rose highlighted the unique advantage provided by 6-foot-5, 260-pound quarterback Kevin Hawkins, stating, “It’s like tackling a lineman.” This combination of size and skill makes Birmingham’s offense a challenge for their rivals. Recently, the team even hosted a pizza-eating contest, where lineman Pablo Granados claimed victory by devouring 10 slices in just seven minutes, showcasing both the players’ competitive spirit and remarkable appetites.
Chatsworth’s Unique Talents
At Chatsworth, player Pablo Escobedo stands out not just for his prowess on the field but also for his unique hobby—riding his horse around the neighborhood. Chatsworth is expected to feature one of the league’s top running backs this season in junior Devin Del Toro, who has been honing his skills since freshman year playing both running back and linebacker. Coach Shawn Johnson noted Del Toro’s significant improvement, further solidifying Chatsworth’s potential as a strong contender.
Dual-Sport Athletes
In a league where versatility is key, two standout athletes are also making headlines as two-sport stars. Nathan Swinson from Taft excels as both a quarterback in football and a catcher in baseball. Similarly, Shane Bogacz from El Camino Real shines on the gridiron as a defensive back while also being a center fielder in baseball. Both athletes strive to balance their commitments to both sports, often hitting batting cages during football season to keep their skills sharp.
Granada Hills’ Double-Wing Attack
Granada Hills is expected to maintain a strong running game with their signature double-wing attack. However, the midseason arrival of transfer quarterback Taiyo Dorio from Crescenta Valley could introduce new dynamics to the team’s strategy, potentially incorporating more passing plays. Wingback Myles Cross added a humorous twist to the anticipation by jokingly claiming he “caught a pass” during practice. Coach Bucky Brooks expressed his admiration for the overall competitiveness in the City Section, saluting all players who chose to represent their neighborhood schools.
Community and Competitiveness
As the new season kicks off, the camaraderie and competitive spirit among teams in the West Valley League are palpable. Coach Brooks’s words resonate well with the local community: “I applaud all those who opted to stay in the neighborhood and play for neighborhood schools.” This dedication to local schools and shared goals will not only enhance the competitiveness of the league but will also foster a strong sense of community.
With the season approaching, these West Valley League teams are ready to battle it out, hoping to claim the title of the best league in the City Section. For players and fans alike, this season promises an incredible display of talent, determination, and thrilling football.
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