Senior Boys All-State Teams





DyeStatCal/ESPN RISE
California Senior Runner of the Year

Chris Schwartz, Foothill HS, Bakersfield-CE


    A split of the national championship meets did nothing to cloud our decision to recognize
Chris Schwartz as Senior Runner of the Year, that despite finishing a distant seventh
individually in Division III at the State Meet. The 2007 Division I state champ, Schwartz
rebounded from what he termed as "poor eating decisions" at the state meet to place a
very impressive eighth overall at Foot Locker Nationals two weeks later. Interspersed in
those results was a California-best 14:47 at the Mt. SAC Invitational and a FootLocker
West Regional title on the 5k version of the Mt. SAC course. Schwartz's lone setback
against Golden State foes came at state, was a bad diet on the weekend of the meet
led to a disagreeable stomach and illness. Chris' successes are all the more sweeter
considering a difficult childhood in which he was abandoned at a young age and had
repeatedly filtered in and out of the foster care system over the years. He has since
found a supportive set of parents, a fine group of coaches and the support system to excel!



FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE SENIORS


1. Chris Schwartz (Foothill, Bakersfield-CE) -- While unable to successfully repeat as a state champion, Chris
rebounded to finish as the top Californian (eighth overall) at FootLocker Nationals, capping a dream story for
the likeable senior who overcame long odds after being shuffled through various foster homes over the years.


2. Tyler Valdes (Dana Hills, Dana Point-SS) -- Heading up a sensational team campaign for the state Division I
champion Dolphins, Tyler was the Orange County champion and the Division I sectional and state champion.


3. Jonathan Sanchez (Buchanan, Clovis-CE) -- Missed the earlier season due to injury, but Jonathan's return to
 the lineup spurred the Bears to their finest season in school history, netting the Central Section title, the state
runner-up plaque and then leading the team to a ninth-place finish at Nike Cross Nationals.


4. Zack Torres (Crescenta Valley, La Crescenta Valley-SS) -- Proving his move from the baseball diamond to the
cross-country course was a smart one, Zack gained respect as a tough race-day combatant while placing
second in State Division I and earning All-American honors (tied for 15th) at FootLocker Nationals.


5. Cody Schmidt (Redondo Union, Redondo Beach-SS) -- Continuing a seemingly systematic rate of progress in
recent seasons, Cody (3rd at State D2) carried over nicely from a strong track campaign to pace the Seahawks
to their best finish -- fourth at state in D2 -- in school history while qualifying individually for Nike Cross Nationals!


6. Mac Fleet (University City, San Diego-SDS) --  Entering the season with considerable expectations, Mac captured
the Woodbridge Invitational title for a second consecutive year and avenged a mid-season Stanford Invitational
setback by winning the Division III state individual crown in leading his team's successes. 



7. Wyatt Landrum (Liberty, Brentwood-NCS) -- From virtual unknown to big-meet performer, Wyatt emerged very
nicely in the Fall with a series of meet records and showdown triumphs, romping to an NCS-title effort and an
eventual 4th-place finish at the Division II state meet to qualify for FootLocker Nationals.


SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE SENIORS (listed alphabetically)
James Cameron (Mission Viejo-SS) -- Flashing far better resiliency as a senior, James waged continual battles
against Tyler Valdes and emerged as among the most popular racers in the state, where he took 6th in Division I.

Isaac Chavez (Barstow-SS) -- A cool cucumber under pressure, Isaac was the proven leader and pacesetter (he
placed 2nd at state) for a powerful Aztecs program  clinched a fourth consecutive state title under Jim Duarte.

John Guzman (Upland-SS) -- Possibly the most impressive improvement down the stretch, John was the clutch
performer to place 4th in State D1 for a Highlanders squad that peaked marvelously to finish 3rd in state as a team.

Nathaniel Litwiller (Clayton Valley, Concord-NCS) -- Perhaps one of the best-kept secrets on the statewide scene,
Nathaniel duplicated his fine track season peak with a repeat pop in cross-country, placing 8th at State in D2.

Matt Peterson (Davis-SJS) -- Steady throughout the season, Matt saved his best for last in posting a solid Top 10
finish (seventh) in Division I at the year-end state meet, also leading his Blue Devils team to the SJS title.

Renaud Poizat (Arcadia-SS) -- Overcoming mid-season injury to return in peak form at state meet, Renaud keyed
the team's high finish and placed 5th in State D1 individual, qualifying for Nike Cross Nationals in the process.

J.P. Slater (Loyola, Los Angeles-SS) -- Emerged as experienced leader for traditional powerhouse Cubs program,
with J.P.  helping steer the D2 team to yet another state championship run while placing 7th individually.


THIRD-TEAM ALL-STATE SENIORS (listed alphabetically)
Andres Diaz (Loyola, Los Angeles-SS) -- Part of a dangerous up-front attack for the Cubs, Andres' consistency
and fine state run (12th in D2) was vital to the team's state-meet title run and berth to Nike Cross Nationals.

Sean Gildea (Thousand Oaks-SS) -- The key frontrunner to the most improved team in the entire nation, Sean
placed 11th in State D2 and propelled the Lancers attacked to a 10th-place team finish at Nike Cross Nationals.

Tyre Johnson (Palma, Salinas-CCS) -- Despite not ranking among the swiftest seniors at the state meet, D4 champ
Tyre proved his worth with fine runs at CCS Finals and at FL West Regional meet to punch ticket to FL nationals.

Jose Lezama (Leuzinger-SS) -- Despite coming out late for the season, this soccer-to-cross-country convert
cracked the 15-minute barrier at Mt. SAC before qualifying to state as an individual, where he placed 10th in D1.

Tyler Reed (Ayala, Chino Hills-SS) -- Very hot at season's outset, Tyler overcame a few mid-season bumps in
the road to throw down an excellent race at state (placing 13th in D2), capping an excellent cross-country career.

Simon Schmidt (Redondo Union, Redondo Beach-SS) -- Steady throughout the season, Simon's consistency
down the stretch )placed 10th in State D2) aided the Seahawks en route to realization of their state-meet dreams.

Danny Vartanian (Buchanan, Clovis-CE) -- Flurry of strong performances and excellent co-leadership by Danny,
who placed 8th at State and was vital to success or powerful Bears program that placed second in Division I.

Toby Villalva (El Toro, Lake Forest-SS) -- Known more for his mid-distance successes in track, Toby's breakthrough
hill-and-dale breakthrough (9th at state) keyed Chargers' Orange County successes.

2008 RISE All-State Senior Girls CC Squad



Top Twelfth Graders from the past Fall harrier campaign

 Team picked by Doug Speck and Mike Kennedy

Girls Senior

Runner of the Year


Mark Smith photo

Jordan Hasay (Mission College Prep, San Luis Obispo-CE)

The “magic in the fall” carried itself right to the end for the four-time State Champion Hasay, as she joined Sara Bei (Montgomery, Santa Rosa) as the only athlete to secure as many individual wins in the annual Thanksgiving weekend contests at Fresno.  A bit of frustration in moving up the all-time lists at Woodward Park while winning divisional races by a ton was relieved as the popular senior showed a full repoitore of racing skills in patiently waiting before a big final quarter mile move at the December Foot Locker National Championships to snare the championship there she last won as a ninth grader.  She graduated from a wide-eyed age-group phenom used to dominating and racing away from the pack to steady development under Coach Armando Siqueiros that imbued her with an array of racing skills and confidence that allowed her to compete with talented fields and carry the effort to victory.  Along the way there have been interesting stops
like the Olympic Trials and World Youth and Junior level Track competitions against the Kenyans in Europe, with no one probably ever coming close to her state record for signing autographs as a prep distance runner, with the aura around her like nothing we have ever seen.  She will be off winning championships somewhere in college after this year, and there is the spring to still come with a bunch of running, but her presence on the scene will be missed on the Golden State fall running paths in our harrier sport.

DyeStatCal First Team All-State (ranked in order)

1. Jordan Hasay (Mission College Prep, SLO-CE) - A reduced racing schedule for the four time State Division V Champion had it finish off in great undefeated style with a second Foot Locker Nationals win over her conqueror from last year, Florida’s Ashley Brasovan.  


Spencer Allen photo

2. Alexandra Dunne (San Clemente-SS) - The tough State Division I champ ended with there with just one shoe (see picture above), then finished our her very high quality season that featured a number of great efforts with a nineteenth at the Foot Locker National Finals



Spencer Allen photo

3. Sammy Silva (Our Lady of Peace, San Diego-SD) - The San Diego and State Division III Champ marked a very clutch win there over a super group at that level in the day’s number four clocking, and shows the potential to mightily improve her spring 5:00 1600 best.   


Bill Foley photo

4. Hillary Hayes (Edison, Huntington Beach-SS) - The Orange County senior had great results this past season.  She was second in the State Meet Division II, with participation in the Nike Cross Nationals in December.


 
Spencer Allen photo

5. Jennifer Bergman (Valley Christian, San Jose-CCS) - After years of nagging knee problems, Jennifer was finally able to prepare properly.  She was 3rd in the tough Div III State race, and placed 6th in the  Foot Locker Regional, and 36th at Nationals. 


Margaret Gallagher photo

6. Brianna Jauregui (Saugus-SS) - One of the leaders of the State’s top team ever at Saugus, Brianna helped bolster the powerful Centurion pack with her efforts that included a 4th at State Div  II, and important part in the team's 2nd at Nike Cross Nationals.
 


Spencer Allen photo

7. Sheree Shea (University City, San Diego-SD) - This San Diego area star peaked in super style with a 4th in the State Div III contest, 8th in the Western US Foot Locker Regional, and 34th in the San Diego area National Finals. 

Second Team - listed alphabetically

Elizabeth Apgar (Lincoln, San Diego-SD) - The San Diego Division II Champion was fifth at the State Meet at her level. 

Heather Balbier (Dana Hills, Dana Point-SS) - One of the leaders of the super Dolphin squad finished eleventh at the State Division I meet. 

Justine Fedronic (Carlmont, Belmont-CCS) - The CCS Division I Champion completed a healthy Fall season with a fine fifth at the State Meet at her level. 

Staci Foster (Orange Lutheran, Orange-SS) - Southern Section star finished eighth in the State Meet Division III in leading her squad to a runner-up effort. 

Diana George (Livermore-NCS) - NCS star finished sixth at the State Meet Division II after a third place effort locally in the Section meet in November

Sabrina Lopez (Sacred Heart of Jesus, Los Angeles-SS)  - It was a super senior year for one of the small school stars of the State, and she took the State Division IV title in Fresno. 

Maria Malone (Folsom-SJ) - This Sac Joaquin star patiently recovered from injury and took the Sac Joaquin Section by a huge margin and slipped under 18:00 at State in Seventh place Division I.    

Third Team - listed alphabetically

Caroline Draper (Rancho Bernardo, San Diego-SD) - Part of the tough Rancho Bernardo 1-2 duo with Molly Grabill, Draper was fifth in the Section Finals and sixteenth in November’s State D1 run.  

Erin Gillingham (Torrey Pines, San Diego-SD) - A top twenty State Finals finish capped a great career for one of the top runners on the highly ranked Torrey Pines squad from the San Diego section. 

Olivia Guadiana (Ventura-SS) - Careful, well-timed peak for the latest Ventura HS star had a super run at the State Meet after qualifying as an individual with a “lucky 13th” placing and 18:10 clocking at Woodward Division I. 

Karlee Owens (Arroyo Grande-SS) - A pleasant surprise and much-improved this Fall, Owens was fourth Southern Secton Division II and sixteenth at State at that competitive level. 

Anne Randall (Saugus-SS) - Part of the nation’s #2 ranked squad, Randall had a couple of super races in the Fall for the top team in California prep history and joined them for their championship exploits.   

Mary Reynolds (Mountain View-CCS) - CCS Runner-up Division II Mary helped lead one of the state’s top teams with her top twenty State Finals finish in Fresno 

Sarah Tusting (Benicia-SJ) - Super improved since last year, Sarah was runner-up in the Sac Joaquin Section Division II Finals, then placed top fifteen at that level in the State Meeet in Fresno. 





 

Junior Boys All-State XC Teams



Mountain View's Garrett Rowe snares top honors!

Arcadia CA



DyeStatCal/ESPN RISE
California Junior Runner of the Year

Garrett Rowe, Mountain View HS-CCS

    The first thing you notice is his signature racing sunglasses. Next, he's the prototypical build: tall and lanky. Third,
he's quiet and seemingly serious before his race. Yes, Garrett Rowe has 100% the look of a stud runner. But looks
don't mean much once the gun goes off. ... and that's when Garrett leaves no doubt he's about mroe than just
race-day looks.
    Competing on a team loaded with rising talent, Mountain View High School junior Garrett Rowe's midseason return
from injury was the key development in sparking his squad to the finest season in Central Coast Section history,
including a section record 79:37 team time at the year-end state meet and their emergence as a national force. Along
the way, Rowe won the CCS Division II individual crown and then earned statewide runner-up honors to earn a ticket
to the Nike Cross Nationals meet in Portland, where the soft-spoken teenager placed 13th overall to earn All-American
accolades and sew of California Junior Class Runner of the Year honors! Rowe also was the #2 Californian at NXN,
finishing less than a behind behind Loyola sophomore sensation Elias Gedyon. With Garrett leading a loaded returning
crew for 2009, look for Mountain View to be a strong national force during his senior year!



FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE JUNIORS


1. Garrett Rowe (Mountain View-CCS) -- Coming through huge for a team that rose to statewide prominence in 2008,
Garrett kicked some tail down the stretch to earn State Division II runner-up accolades, then motored to All-American
honors at NXN!  Considered among America's top talents for 2009!



2. Matthew McElroy (Edison, Huntington Beach-SS) -- Unbeaten through to the halfway point of the season, Matthew
rebounded from a lackluster (but victorious) league showing to place fifth for all-state honors in State Division II and
eventually earning a berth to Nike Cross-Nationals. Also an excellent surfer, he "caught the wave" in cross-country in '08!



3. Philip MacQuitty (Palo Alto-CCS) -- A roller coaster ride in recent months ended on a clear and powerful upswing for
Philip, who placed sixth at the state meet in Division II to re-emerge as among the top Golden State talents by year's end.
Also an accomplished speedster in track and field, Philip looks to be hitting his stride yet again!



4. Daniel Rosales (Apple Valley-SS) -- The state's top returnee for Division III after placing third this year, Daniel turned
the tables on most of his in-season rivals to gain the upper hand by season's end. An age-group standout, he has indeed
made the difficult but successful transtion to excellence on the prep level as well!  



5. Erik Olson (Novato-NCS) -- Successfully stepping up to the top tier of the Golden State's elite, Erik unleashed a clutch
effort (15:17) to finish fourth at the state meet and set himself up for national class status entering 2009! This kid was money
in the end, proving that despite competing in a smaller division, he's developing very nicely into a big-time talent!



6. Travis Edwards (Royal, Simi Valley-SS) -- Despite missing the first half of the season to injury, Travis returned to stellar
form and came through huge for the Highlanders with superb efforts that carried his squad to a 5th-place finish at state. Rare
it is that a top runner can miss plenty of key time in Division I and still return to shine under pressure, but he did just that!



7. Seth Totten (Golden Valley, Santa Clarita-SS) -- Emerging on the radar by late September, Seth's star power grew ever
brighter with a series of excellent big-race runs, including an all-state performance that carried the team to an 11th-place D3
finish. He started as a sleeper in 2008, not even advancing out of league, but earned all-state honors by the end. Super-rise surprise!



SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE JUNIORS (listed alphabetically)
Blake Ahrold (Dana Hills, Dana Point-SS) -- A clutch performer on an otherwise senior-dominated lineup, Blake excellent in
both outings on the state meet course (15:37) and was a consistent standout for the powerful Dolphins program.

Kellen Blumberg (Patrick Henry, San Diego-SDS)-- A key in the fortunes of the most improved program in Division I,  Kellen
helped steer Patrick Henry High to an 8th-place team finish and he'll be San Diego's top returnee (15:39) in 2009!

Dustin Fay (Rim Of The World, Lake Arrowhead-SS) -- Gained the upper hand on occasion against league rival and first-
teamer Daniel Rosales, with Dustin earning an individual berth all the way to state, where he placed sixth in Division III (15:27).

Mitch Moriarty (Aptos-CCS) -- The surprise frontrunner for the Mariners at state (placing 8th as a team), Mitch enjoyed a
fine breakthrough this Fall to position himself as among the Central Coast Section's elite for the 2009 season.

Heath Reedy (Buchanan, Clovis-CS) -- Catching fire in late season, Heath helped bolster the Bears the to the most successful
campaign in Central Section history, climaxed with a state runner-up team finish and 9th at Nike Cross Nationals

Pablo Rosales (San Pedro-LAS) -- A sensational peak for the L.A. City Section top performer netted Pablo a Top 25 finish in
Division I and pegged him as the man to beat on the Los Angeles City Section scene in 2009.

Roberto Rosas (Grace Davis, Davis-SJS) --  A bit of a surprise here, Roberto raced to a Top 25 finish in the major division,
with his 15:37 state meet clocking in Division I pegging him as the top returnee in the Sac-Joaquin Section next year!


THIRD-TEAM ALL-STATE JUNIORS (listed alphabetically)
Amjed Aboukhadijeh (Oak Ridge, El Dorado Hills-SJS) -- Red hot throughout much of the fall schedule, Amjed was among
Northern California's elite names in 2009, including a third-place finish for all-divisions combined at the SJS Finals.

Paul Jesson (Royal, Simi Valley-SS) -- An excellent performer who successfully carried over his progress from the track
oval, Paul's consistency early on was vital to his team's mental psyche after various setbacks plagued the crew in September.

Kevin Joerger (Thousand Oaks-SS) -- One of the fastest rising new names on the distance scene, Kevin was a money
player in the sensational campaign waged by the Lancers, who finished 10th team-wise at the Nike Cross Nationals!

Dan Maxwell (St. Mary's, Berkeley-NCS) -- Picking up right where graduated teammate Matt Duffy left off, Dan emerged as
one of Division IV's finest while achieving all-state accolades and leading his team to a 6th-place finish.

Kurt Ruegg (Napa-SJS) -- Registering among the state meet surprises of the year, Kurt was the fourth NorCal finisher in
State Division I, racing to a fine 15:40 performance that tags him among the region's leading returnees.

Johnny Sanchez (Roosevelt, Fresno-CE)  -- Perhaps the nicest surprise among the juniors was Johnny's development
this fall, punctuated with a Central Section Finals individual win and then a Top 20 finish in D3.

Danny Thomas (Arroyo, San Lorenzo -NCS) -- Competing within a senior-dominated collection of runners in State D3,
Danny still marveled with a 15:42 effort at Woodward Park and will rank among the North Coast Section elite in 2009.

2008 All-State Junior Girls CC Squad



Top Eleventh Graders from the past Fall harrier campaign

Team picked by Doug Speck and Mike Kennedy

Girls Junior

Runner of the Year


photo by Rich Gonzalez

Melissa Skiba (Oak Park-SS)

A super eleventh grade year was marked the season by a ton of great efforts for our Runner of the Year, Melissa Skiba.  With a very relaxed personality, she masks a fierce and competitive nature out on the running course, with impressive improvement over the last year.  From an early season 17:11 at the Seaside Invitational that earned her State Athlete of the Week honors, she blazed to Divisional wins at Stanford, Clovis, Ventura County, and at the Southern Section level before a second to senior Sammy Silva at State Division III.  She finished the season at the Nike Cross Nationals, picking up valuable national level experience during this eleventh grade year that should bode well for her last year and a half of running as a high-schooler.   There is no one nicer, yet tougher out there on the running paths than this award winner. 

DyeStatCal First Team All-State (ranked in order)


1. Melissa Skiba (Oak Park-SS) - Melissa had a super year of racing with a flock of individual wins in important races summarized in her Runner of the Year section above. 
 

photo by Margaret Gallagher

2. Jacque Taylor (Casa Grande, Santa Rosa-NCS) - Third Place in State Division II, Jacque was the NCS Champ and ended the year at the Foot Locker Nationals in 30th place.   


photo by Bill Foley 

3. Teeny Adams (Esperanza, Anaheim-SS) - Another who had a super Fall season, Adams was runner-up at State Division I and competed in the Nike Cross Nationals. 


photo by Dennis McClanahan

4. Megan Morgan (Torrey Pines, San Diego-SS) - San Diego area star was 4th at State Div I, then was 5th at Foot Locker Regionals to earn spot in Finals, with a 24th spot there. 


photo by Margaret Gallagher

5. Liberty Miller (Simi Valley-SS) - Ventura County star was 10th at the Southern Section Div II Finals, then was a fine 7th at State at just over 18 minutes. 


photo by Bill Foley

6. Amber Murakami (Saugus-SS) - Another of that amazing quality Saugus Centurion Pack, she was 3rd Southern Section Div II and 9th at State. 


photo by Margaret Gallagher

7. Chloe Curtis (Redondo-SS) - Super job at State with an 8th place Division II earned this State Track 800 meter finalist first team All-State grade honors in this sport also.

Second Team - listed alphabetically

Isabel Andrade (Petaluma-NCS) - NCS Champion Division III was top ten at State at that level in helping to build the female half of the fine Petaluma program. 

Saylah Barserian (Clovis-CE) - Steady Central Section Champion had a super Fall, with top twenty finish at the State Division I Finals near home. 

Heather Cerney (Carondelet, Concord - NCS) - A fine fall for the Carondelet leader, led by a runner-up NCS Finish Division II and lucky 11th at State there.  

Colleen Lillig (California, San Ramon-NCS) - NCS Division I Champ had some fine races during the Fall, with a 17th finish in the tough Division I State race.  

Erin Menefee (Mt. Carmel, San Diego-SD) - The San Diego Section Division II runner-up was lucky 13th at the State Meet at that level to finish a fine year.  

Melanie Powers (Corona del Mar, Newport Beach-SS) - Steadily improved this Fall, with a 4th at the Southern Section Div III level and 6th at the November State Meet.

Gianna Velasquez (El Toro-SS) - A solid end of her junior year had the Orange County star 6th in the Southern Section Division I Finals and top ten at the State Meet.  

Third Team - listed alphabetically

Alycia Cridebring (College Park, Pleasant Hill-NCS) - A carefully crafted season had Cridebring peak nicely, with an NCS runner-up finish followed by a top 25 State run. 

Sarah Darby (San Clemente-SS) - A super 28th place run at the State Meet Div I followed a top thirty finish at the Section meet for next year’s Triton team leader. 

Theresa Devine (Marin Catholic, Kentfield-NCS) - A huge NCS win was followed by a top five finish at the State Meet Division IV by this Bay area underclass star. 

Catherine Hasbrouck (Nordhoff, Ojai-SS) - This Ventura county star steadily improved all Fall, with runner-up efforts to State Div IV Champ Sabrina Lopez at Section and State. 

Melissa Telon (Rancho Cucamonga-SS) - Eighth at the Southern Section Finals, Telon was 21st at the State Meet competition at that level. 

Kelsi Tippets (ML King, Riverside-SS) - Kelsi had a couple of super efforts when it counted, with a fifth in the tough Section Division I Finals and top 25 finish at the State Meet. 

Sierra Vega (Foothill, Santa Ana-SS) - A 6th place finisher Division III at the Southern Section level, Vega was top dozen at 12th in the State Finals in Fresno at that level.

Sophomore Boys All-State Teams



DyeStatCal/ESPN RISE
California Sophomore Runner of the Year

Elias Gedyon, Loyola HS-SS

Photo by Rich Gonzalez

By Rich Gonzalez
Editor, DyeStatCal
    (--)  Officially, Elias Gedyon is California's Sophomore of the Year for the 2008 cross-country season. Unofficially, no matter what grade he would have been in this year, he would have claimed top honors. Yes, he was that good. Doubt it? Well, just check out the credentials put forth by this nifty 10th-grader....
    The Great Cow Run varsity champion ... Mt. Carmel Invitational race champion ... Bell-Jeff Invitational champion ... San Gabriel Valley Challenge champion ... Mt. SAC Invitational Team Sweepstakes individual champion (and sophomore class course record) ... Mission League champion ... CIF-SS Finals Division II champion.... CIF-State Division II individual champion. ... Fastest California finisher at the Nike Cross Nationals.
    That's right, completely unbeaten on the weekends in 2008 against California  competition -- the only male to hold such distinction this season, while also leading the Cubs to the Division II state championship and a return berth to Nike Cross Nationals.
    And the best may yet be to come....
    "At practice the week after Mt. SAC, I was giving Elias a ride home," his coach at Loyola High, Lalo Diaz, recalled. "He said he was happy to get the sophomore course record, but it wasn't that big of a deal to him. He said he had a bigger goal. I asked him "What?" He said "To break Michael Granville's national high school 800-meter record in track before I'm done."
    We'll see you on the oval!


FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE SOPHOMORES

         Photo by Rich Gonzalez
1. Elias Gedyon (Loyola, Los Angeles-SS) -- Entering the season with talent and fitness, Elias took the next step
on a very promising elite scholastic career by learning how to handle pressure well, always answering the call for a
Cubs program that  captured the Division II state title. His 15:01 at state was his best CIF showing!


         Photo by Rich Gonzalez
2. Heyden Wooff (Adolfo Camarillo, Camarillo-SS) -- With the toned shoulders and rigid stride that could easily be
mistaken for a footballer doing his conditioning, Heyden's looks were misleading. A tough competitor with fine stamina,
 the Ventura County standout etched out a sensational season, including a 15:16 performance in State Division 2.


      Photo by Rich Gonzalez
3. Samuel Pons (South Pasadena-SS) --  Smooth and machine-like stride carried him to a series of strong marks
throughout the season , punctuated by an outstanding 15:11 effort at Mt. SAC and then followed up with a 15:31
performance in Division III state. Put in quality summer miles to set the base for his successful rise up the ranks.


     Photo by Rich Gonzalez
4. Justin Vilhauer (Redwood, Visalia-CS) -- Not always having the chance to race against top competition in his
neck of the woods, he remained sharp and was ready by season's end to sparkle in the Division II ranks with a fine
15:31 on the state meet course. Aggressive runner who competes very well and will be one to watch closely in 2009.


        Photo by Rich Gonzalez
5. Ammar Moussa (Arcadia-SS) -- Caught fire by midseason to help spark the Apaches into another gear as the
group kick-started another successful trip to the state meet. Raced to 15:39 effort at the state meet as one of several
top-notch performances during the fall campaign. Odds-on favorite to emerge as a huge talent come junior year.


       Photo by Rich Gonzalez

6. Parker Schuh (Mountain View-CCS) -- Unflappable youngster who handled pressure meets well while competing
as key performer on one of the finer groups on the West Coast. Thanks to his performances, crew was on verge of
national rankings, wit his 15:38 effort at the state meet indicative of the running talents he brings to the line.


         Photo by Mark Smith
7. Michael Gauger (Corona-SS) -- Came out of the gates flying and also excelled at Mt. SAC, including a 15:22 effort
on the conventional course and perhaps his best race of the year coming at FootLocker West Regionals. Part of a fine
young group that shined at CIF Finals and looks to be leader for state-type group in 2009.


SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE SOPHOMORES
Jeff Bickert (College Park, Pleasant Hill-NCS) -- Steady performer in 2008, coming on well down the stretch
including a respectable 15:51 clocking at the state meet to rank among best NorCal underclassmen.

Domenic D'Acquisto (Enterprise, Redding-NS) -- Continue a fine underclass career with an impressive run
(15:55) in Division III action at the state meet. Among the top Northern Section talents, regardless of grade.

Trevor Halsted (Davis-SJS) -- Was a steady performer for the Sac-Joaquin Section team champions, then
came back to fare very well individually at the Foot Locker West Regional over the 5,000-meter race distance.

Allen Leung (Arcadia-SS) -- Part of a dangerous young group for the Apaches, ran strong at state (15:56)
after a super effort at  CIF Finals (15:34 at Mt. SAC) helped ensure another trip to state for the crew.

Dan Milechman (Tamalpais-NCS) -- Came on very well down the stretch to secure all-state honors in Division
 IV, racing to a fine 15:37 at state. Also was among the leading 10th graders at the Foot Locker West Regional.

Ryan Urie (Patrick Henry, San Diego-SD) -- With the school enjoying its finest season in history, Ryan was
an integral player and saved his best for last in a strong 15:42 effort in Division I at the state championships.

Andrew Ward (Torrey Pines, San Diego- SDS) -- Torrey Pines enjoyed one of its finest seasons ever and
came on strong down thy stretch, thanks in part to Andrew's contributions, including a 15:55 state meet run.



THIRD-TEAM ALL-STATE SOPHOMORES
Nathaniel Cushing-Murray (Foothill, Santa Ana-SS) -- A very solid performer and gutty racer for the rising
Foothill program, raced to a 15:59 performance in the state meet in Division III and also 15:43 at CIF Finals.

Eric Garibay (Arcadia-SS) -- Stepped up with several solid races, including a superb showing to help the
Apaches win the Stanford Invitaitonal. Also raced to a 15:57 clocking in Division I at the state meet.

Mizrael Mendez (Mt. Whitney, Visalia-CE) -- Held up well to challenge some of the Buchanan racers in the
Central Section battles, ending the CIF season on a high note with a 15:56 effort at the state meet.

Elliot Myers (Esperanza, Anaheim-SS) -- Rode a very strong summer of training to a fine breakthrough season,
performing well in the Sunset League and Orange County wars, also racing to 15:42 at Mt. SAC in CIF Finals.

Jason Prieto (Upland-SS) -- A nice surprise performer on the best team in school history, with his 15:57 at the
state meet part of an incredible effort that saw the Highlanders finish third in the Division I state final.

Myles Scarano  (Woodcrest Christian, Riverside-SS) -- A key part of the best front-running group in Division V
history, Myles scored his biggest individual achievement with a stellar runner-up finish (15:37) in the SS Finals at Mt. SAC.

Lane Werley (King HS, Riverside-SS) -- A convert from basketball the sensational youngster revealed great
promise for the future with multiple quality races, including a fine 15:56 at the Clovis Invitational.

2008 All-State Girls Soph CC Squad



Top Tenth Graders from the Harrier season past!

Team picked by Doug Speck and Mike Kennedy

Girls Soph

Runner of the Year


photo by Margaret Gallagher

Kaylin Mahoney (Saugus-SS)

As the leader of a squad that  blew away all the records as the Golden State’s best squad ever and finished second in the Nike Cross Nationals, Kaylin Mahoney of Saugus had a memorable Fall.  She had a super frosh 2007-2008 year, the top ninth grade finisher in the Nike Team Nationals and the country’s top first year prep 3200 runner in track at 10:25.40, then came out charging this Fall with a wholesale destruction of her previous year times on courses around the state as she took over the “lead vehicle” duties for the Centurion powerhouse.  She was the Southern Section Division II Champ, took the same title at State, and was eleventh at the Nike Cross Nationals to lead her squad there.  The order may have changed behind the Saugus squad leader this Fall, but always pulling the big wagon out front was our 2008 DyeStatCal Soph Cross Country runner of the year, Kaylin Mahoney.  

DyeStatCal First Team All-State (ranked in order)

1. Kaylin Mahoney (Saugus-SS) - Super soph leader of the Saugus squad, the best group in State’s history, matured quickly into the team leadership role in a great 2008 Fall.


photo by Dennis McClanahan

2. Molly Grabill (Rancho Bernardo, San Diego-SS) -  Molly had an unbelievable start to her 2008 season before coming down with illness, placing 6th at State Division I. 


photo by Joe Hartman

3. Alli Billmeyer (Torrey Pines, San Diego-SD) - San Diego area star had a great close to her harrier campaign, 3rd at State Division I and 15th at Nike Cross Nationals!


photo by Mark Smith

4. Hannah Valenzuela (Apple Valley-SS) - High Desert star from the Southern Section always raced hard and was second SS Div III and fifth at the State Meet there. 


photo by Mark Smith

5. Alaina Alvarez (Dana Hills, DP-SS) - One of the leaders of nationally ranked Dolphin squad, Alaina was 3rd SS Division I and eight at the State Finals competition. 


photo by Doug Speck

6. Jessie Petersen (Carlmont, Belmont-CCS) - Great close to her tenth grade year had the sub 11 minute 3200 track star place ninth at State Div I just over 18 minutes. 


photo by Mark Smith

7. Kristin Parry (Dana Hills, Dana Point-SS) - Great first year with the Dana Hills squad after a move from Fallbrook, Parry was 10th SS Div I and 12th at the State Meet. 

Second Team - listed alphabetically

Laura Beresford (Dana Hills, DP-SS) - Part of the ‘super soph’ class for the Dolphins, Beresford was 15th SS Division I this Fall and 22nd at the State competition. 

Stephanie Bulder (Saugus-SS) - Another great young talent at Saugus, Stephanie was 6th at the Southern Section Meet Division II and 14th at the State as the Centurion’s #4 finisher. 

Tiffany Heflin (Lassen, Susanville-No) - Super close to the tenth grade year from the traditional Northern power, Heflin was second ovall up North, then third State Div IV. 

Brooke Holt (Granite Bay-SJ) - Fine career continues for Granite Bay star, capped by Sac Joaquin win at the Division II level and 20th place at the State meet. 

Savannah Pio (Mira Costa, Manhattan Beach-SS) - Super improved soph led another fine MiCo crew this year, with a 10th place at the State Meet Division II following a fine fifth individually at the Southern Section Championships.  

Shayna Robinson (Sultana, Hesperia-SS) - Important part of a super young Sultana squad, Shayna put a super race together at State for top dozen finish Division II.

Shanna St. Laurent (Rancho Buena Vista, Vista-SD) - Tough San Diego area soph was fourth in that area's rugged Division I Finals run, then followed that with a 20th at the State Meet to continue her fine career.

Third Team - listed alphabetically

Melissa Bauer (Paraclete, Lancaster-SS) - Distance star in the strong track/cross country Spirits’ program, Bauer was sixth in the Southern Section Div IV and 4th at State.

Macy Bricks (Buchanan, Clovis-CE) - Fine soph season for the latest Buchanan star, second at the Central area finals, and thirty-third at the State Meet Division I. 

Paxton Cota (Dana Hills, Dana Point-SS) - This makes four from the Dolphin powerhouse in this top 21 listing, with Cota 24th SS Division I and 27th at the State competition. 

Lyndsie Etherton (Bullard, Fresno-CE) - The super career for the Bullard young runner continues, with a 4th in the Central Section DI and 32nd at State. 

Jane Higuchi (Sultana, Hesperia-SS) - Another important cog in the great young Sultana crew, Jane was 16th Southern Section Division II and 23rd at the State Finals competition.

Rachel Hinds (St. Ignatius, San Francisco-CCS) - La Crosse playing star who brought the habit from New Jersey had another fine Fall with 3rd CCS Div III and 15th at State.

Annie Mooney (Mission College Prep, San Luis Obispo-CE) - Quality back-up to State Champ Jordan Hasay, Mooney was 2nd Central Section and State in 2008! 

Freshmen Boys All-State Teams



DyeStatCal/ESPN RISE
California Freshman Runner of the Year

Luis Gutierrez, Rancho Cucamonga HS-SS

              Photo by Rich Gonzalez

By Rich Gonzalez
Editor, DyeStatCal
          The first time he came onto the high school radar, Luis Gutierrez did it in commanding fashion. Competing for a
quickly re-rising Rancho Cucamonga program, Luis sizzled in his prep debut to win his grade race at the season-
opening Fastback Shootout as Mt. SAC along a 2-mile course. A week later, another win on another notable layout,
this time a 25-second triumph in the frosh race at the Mt. Carmel Invitational at Balboa Park. By then, he had already
stamped himself as the newcomer to beat but made it impossible for anyone to do so, revving up for seasonal grade-best
clockings for 15:33 on the Mt. SAC regular course and then 15:52 at the state meet at Woodward Park, emerging as the
#3 scorer on a Cougars team placing sixth at the state meet in Division I! His time was fastest for frosh runners by more
than 30 seconds, slamming the door on his rivals and earning himself Freshmen of the Year accolades!


FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE FRESHMEN

   Photo by Rich Gonzalez
1. Luis Gutierrez (Rancho Cucamonga-SS) -- The fastest freshman at the state meet, at the nation's largest invitational and at
a Mt. Carmel Invitational meet showcasing several top underclassmen, Luis proved to be the best of the best among new faces
on the Golden State running scene in 2008. It's not easy to single out his best effort, as several performances (15:52 at state;
15:33 at Mt. SAC; 15:18 at Mt. Carmel) rated on an equal tier, with the most impressive facet being they came in big races!



    Photo by Ian Pearce
2. CJ Albertson (Buchanan, Clovis-CE)  -- This was to be a  dream year for the Bears, with a talented senior-dominated lineup
being the heart of its hopes. But it was C.J.'s added timely presence on big days (16:07 twice at Woodward to go with 16:23 there;
frosh course record 15:18 at Woodbridge) which further helped put Buchanan over the top in garnering the Central Section team
championship, the state Division I runner-up spot and ninth at Nike Cross Nationals.

       Photo by Kirby Lee
3. Sebastian Cruz (St. John Bosco, Bellflower-SS) -- While the Braves were loaded on top with a junior class group, one thing
lacking would have been a fifth man to close out the scoring. But that's where Sebastian then filled in to help St. John Bosco to
repeated team successes in '08, including a sweet runner-up team finish at the SS D3 DFinals. His best race? Peaking nicely to
finish as the team's #3 man at state (16:23)!


Photo courtesy of Brad Zanetti
4. Luis Luna (Piner, Santa Rosa-NCS) -- Down through the years it has been precocious young females that we've written about
coming from the NCS, but Luis could develop into among the finer male talents from the area down the road. His fine 16:26 run
at Woodward Park closed out a solid year which included a 15:58 jaunt (26th in D3) to lead his program at the NCS Finals at
Hayward.


     Photo by Doug Speck
5. Daniel Johnson (University Prep, Redding-NS) -- If you've never heard of University Prep School before, Daniel may make
sure you remember it. His 16:42 at the Northern Section Finals, where all divisions combine into one race, as good for fourth
overall, with the first nine finishers all returning next year. Daniel then took a fine 15th in the D5 state meet, clocking 16:29.


6. Sam Peckham (Hart, Newhall-SS) -- Although steady for much of the fall campaign, Sam broke new ground when it mattered
most: in November! First came a very solid run at the Foothill League Finals (7th in 15:54), then he really blew the doors open with
a superb 16:08 wun at Mt. SAC during the CIF-SS Prelims. Have a photo of him? Please email it in. Thanks!



Photo courtesy of Gisel Family.
7. Scott Gisel (Rancho Buena Vista, Vista-SDS) -- Although string together a pretty solid season while competing for among
San Diego's elite programs, Scott really picked it up a notch at the year-end meet, ripping a stellar 16:34 at Woodward Park that
ranked as the highlight of the year. Also included were a strong 17:05 run at Balboa Park for the section finals and 17:07 at
Stanford.


      Photo by Mike Kent
8. Danny Carrillo (Golden Valley, Santa Clarita-SS) -- While all-state junior class teammate Seth Totten deservedly caught most
of the headlines this fall, Danny stepped up big for the team when needed most, including  a sharp 16:22 run at CIF-SS Finals at
Mt. SAC and then an even better 16:36 effort as the #3 man at the state meet at Woodward Park, where the team finished
11th.



SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE FRESHMEN
Devin Becerra (ML King, Riverside-SS) -- While teammate Lane Werley caught our eye early in 2008, Devin moved into the
frame by late season too. His 16:44 run at the early-season Mt. Carmel Invitational showed promise, with a 16:32 run on the
state meet course fulfilling those views.

Calvin Davis (Rancho Cucamonga-SS) -- Came through big on multiple occasions, including 3rd frosh at Fastback and 8th
frosh overall at Mt. Carmel. Absolutely smoked the Mt. SAC course in superb 15:47 effort to get rolling, with his 17:04 at the
state meet non-indicative of his upside. Also fourth in Youth Division at USATF JOs.

Ismael Griego (Granite Hills, Apple Valley-SS) -- There are many programs that have manufactured fine frosh and sophs like
Granite Hills the past few years, with Ismael being the latest by-product. Scorching to a very impressive 16:13 at Mt. SAC, he's
one to watch in 2009.

Curtis Kelly (Stockdale, Bakersfield-CE) -- While the likes of Buchanan and Foothill's Chris Schwartz were grabbing the
headlines, Curtis was rising up the ranks. His 16:32 at the Central Section Finals was second-fastest (to Albertson) among
the section's frosh.

Michael McCabe (Willow Glen, San Jose-CCS) -- A dynamite talent for down the road, Michael showed very promising skills
early on before reportedly encountering injury partway through. Rebounded to finish with a nice 17:04 at CCS, then a head-
turning 16:36 at state.

Anthony Monroy (Burroughs, Burbank-SS) -- Was the #2 ninth-grader (behind frosh Runner of the Year Gutierrez) at the
Mt. Carmel meet in September, following that up with a series of fast runs, including 16:21 at Mt. SAC and impressive 8th at
loaded Pacific League Finals.

Miles Moreno (Claremont-SS) -- Competing in a tough league, Miles could easily have been overlooked against more
experienced talent. Instead, he prospered under tough conditions, including a strong 16:23 run at Mt. SAC.  

Joshua Sanchez (Los Altos, Hacienda Heights-SS) -- The San Gabriel Valley's top ninth-grader of 2008, Joshua helped
the Conquerors' cause and rolled to an impressive 16:18 performance at the late-season Mt. SAC Invitational.



THIRD-TEAM ALL-STATE FRESHMEN
Zac Bianco (Woodcrest Christian, Riverside-SS) -- No small-schools program churns out a bumper crop of talent quite like
the Royals do, with Zac's arrival a sign the trend is continuing. He went 16:56 for the D5 state champions and also perked a
strong 16:46 at Mt. SAC.

Eric Causey (Tri-City Christian, San Diego-SDS) -- A promising start to a prep career, Eric eclipsed 17 minutes at the state
meet (16:52) while competing in Division V. With ample talent housed in the San Diego Section, look for Eric to mix it up with
the big dogs on occasion in 2009.

Grant Foster (Prospect, San Jose-CCS) -- Consistent down the stretch, Grant posted a solid 16:43 effort at the Central
Coast Section Finals, then continued the groove with a 16:47 performance at the state meet to sew up his inclusion on the
all-state meet lineup.

Michael Frantz (El Camino, Sacramento-SJS) -- The Eagles had to battle several obstacles down the stretch and were
able to salvage a state meet appearance, with Michael being a varsity contributor and notching a very impressive run at the
Sac-Joaquin Section Finals.

Tsuyoshi Kohlgruber (Livermore-NCS) -- Although his team failed to advance to the state meet, Tsuyoshi had a promising
start to his prep forays, including a stoic 16:28 run on the hills of Mt. SAC at the famed late-season invitational.

Brandon Pugh (San Juan Hills, San Juan Capistrano-SS) -- At one point seemingly destined to challenge for first-team
all-state accolades, Brandon still finished well enough at the state meet to clinch honors. Top races included 16:34 at Clovis
and 16:30 at Mt. SAC.

Hunter Tyler (Woodcreek, Roseville-SJS) -- Keep in mind that the Sac-Joaquin Section course is the toughest and slowest
of all major championship courses, with Hunter's 17:43 there misleading but strong. Also went 16:49 at the state meet at Woodward.

2008 All-State Girls Frosh CC Squad



Top Ninth Graders from the Harrier season past!

Team picked by Doug Speck and Mike Kennedy

Girls Frosh

Runner of the Year


photo by Spencer Allen

Rebecca Mehra (Palos Verdes, Palos Verdes Estates-SS)   

Rebecca Mehra, who had done some age-group running as far as the National JO level while in middle-school, and is heavily into soccer, emerged on the prep running scene in a huge way this Fall.  She started off with an impressive 17:27 at Woodbridge, and raced to impressive Varsity level wins at her own school’s challenging event, Mt. SAC, and as far east as the Manhattan Invitational in New York City.  She faced strong competition in her local Bay League of the Southern Section’s South Bay, and finished her year with impressive 3rd  place finishes in the Southern Section Division III race and a 7th at the State competition in a clocking comparable to some of the State’s All-Time greats at the same stage.      

DyeStatCal First Team All-State (ranked in order)

1. Rebecca Mehra (Palos Verdes, Palos Verdes Estates-SS) - The exploits of the Grade Runner of the Year are summarized above.


photo by Dennis McClanahan

2. Ashlyn Dadkhah (Torrey Pines, San Diego-SD) - Ashlyn charged in and was a super help to one of the State’s top squads, finishing top fifteen Division I in her first year. 


photo by Doug Speck

3. Danica Wyson (Aliso Niguel, Aliso Viejo-SS) - Another soccer player of note, Wyson emerged early and was one place beind Dadkhah at 15th State Div I.


photo by Dennis McClanahan

4. Jessy Hansen (University City, San Diego-SD) - Steady improver during the Fall, Hansen impressed with her ending that had her fourth in San Diego Div III and 10th at State.


photo by Spencer Allen

5. Carrie Verdon (Campolindo, Moraga-NCS) - Another who marched up through the competitive ranks her frosh year, finishing 2nd NCS and 11th State Division III.   


photo by Margaret Gallagher

6. Karis Frankian (Saugus-SS) - Impressive first year runner for the State’s strongest team ever, Frankian will help lead the Centurions in 2009 off her 17th at State Division II.


photo by Rich Gonzalez

7. Rachel Brajkovich (La Reina, Thousand Oaks-SS) - Ventura County star finished off her super first year in the sport with a sixth place finish Division IV at State to lead her team. 
 
Second Team - listed alphabetically

Rachel Bush (Redondo Union-SS) - One of the stars of one of the State’s rising programs, Bush had the race of her life in a top 40 finish at under 18:50 at State Division II.

Natalie Dimits (Livermore-NCS) - First year star jumped right into assist the strong Cowboy squad, with a tenth place finish at the North Coast Finals Division II. 

Katy Hebb (St. Lucy’s, Glendora-SS) - First year star with great age-group credentials raced super at the State Meet 20th, Division III to cap off a fine fall season. 

Molly Mann (San Clemente-SS) - Orange County Triton star put together a super run at the State Meet with a top forty-five finish Division I at sub 18:55.

Hannah Munyan (Sultana, Hesperia-SS) - A leader of a super young Sultana squad, Hannah was a top ten finisher in the tough Southern Section Division II Finals run. 

Adriana Olivas (Centennial, Corona-SS) - Inland Empire first year runner had a fine season, with a top fifteen finish in the very competitive Southern Section Division I Championships.

Danielle Rodriguez (Warrren, Downey-SS) - First year San Gabriel Valley League star had a ton of great efforts, with a top twenty-five finish in the tough Southern Section DI.

Third Team - listed alphabetically

Kody Atkins (Chico) - Another first year runner who amazed with steady improvement, ending third in the overall Northern Section Finals and just over 19 at State.

Camille Chapus (Harvard-Westlake, North Hollywood-SS) - Southern Section ninth grader came on nicely, closing with 8th SS D4 and an aggressive 12th place finish at State.

Maxine Goyette (Oak Ridge, El Dorado Hills-SJ) - Battled with some quality youngsters locally, with a super State Meet run that had her just over 19 at Woodward Park.

Francesca Honey (Petaluma-NCS) - Fine fall for the NCS power had Francesca race to fifth in the NCS D3 contest and follow up with a solid 23rd at the State Meet at that level.

Caitlin Kroll (Cathedral Catholic, San Diego-SD) - San Diego star was a fine third in the Section Division III, then went on to State and was near top 30 at that level in Fresno.    

Ericka Reddish (Vista Murrieta, Murrieta-SS) - Talented Inland Empire star steadily improved during the Fall and had a number of super efforts along the way.

Allison Sturges (Mountain View-CCS) - Some stunning efforts for this first year star for the Central Coast Section powerhouse this last Fall to earn a spot here.