As a middle school basketball coach, I'd love to have the calmness and poise of Stanford's David Shaw. But then again, trying to get to a BCS game doesn't compare with the stress of coaxing 13-year-olds to execute the Wahlberg Press to win the Tri Valley Athletic League. Not many could remain even-keeled with the challenge of filling up Mustang Gym by selling $1 tickets.
Cal redshirt freshman safety Damariay Drew is a former Livermore High star who grew up right across the street. Things weren't always easy at home and he could have made the wrong turn. But credit to Drew for emerging from a struggling Cowboys program to get into the Pac-12. I'm so very proud of a kid who used to play basketball on my driveway during his elementary school years. Go Bears!
For East Bay football fans looking for a winner, De la Salle is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The attention to the smallest details, machine-like efficiency, personal accountability and willingness to help opposing coaches build their programs make DLS the gold standard. Justin Alumbaugh has orchestrated a seamless transition to head coach, keeping his charges focused on the ultimate prize. Realistically, only Folsom stands in the way of another trip to the state final.
