With just one week before the 2019 prep football season opens, Point Loma head coach Mike Hastings has determined his starters at many positions although one critical spot still remains a tossup: The starting quarterback.
Seniors Trey Cobb and Jason Peres alternated signal-calling duties during games as juniors last season but that will not be the case this season. The two have waged a spirited battle leading up to the team’s three-way scrimmage at 5 p.m. tonight (Aug. 16) at Mt. Carmel, which will also include Eastlake.
Following the scrimmage, Hastings will name one to start as the Pointers’ raise the curtain on their new season Aug. 23 at home against the Wildcats of El Camino with a 6:30 p.m. kickoff.
“That’s what the kids wanted and that’s what they got,” Hastings said of the pair’s competition.
Last year’s team finished at 5-6 overall including 1-3 in the Western League, home to county powers Cathedral Catholic, Madison and Lincoln, who have won numerous CIF titles and even state championships.
“I consider the Western League the toughest in the county,” Hastings said, emphasizing he wants his teams to continuously prove they can play in this lofty league. He challenges his team with a non-league slate of tough opponents to prepare them.
Staying healthy will certainly be a crucial for the Pointers as the weekly games through Nov. 9 approach with a bye week coming Sept. 27.
Going through his roster, Hastings is excited about his defensive starters. DEFENSE
Safety: Kaden Gill and Tristan Shafer, both third-year players.
Cornerback: Chris Brown and Jaylon Brown both return.
Linebacker: Nick Riffle and Trevor O’Toole return joined by Cameron Green and Landon Green.
D-Line: Third year player Alejandro Barragan-Peterson returns with returning offensive lineman Danny Shelton joining the D. Dante Bentley will also start.
“We should be set with our starters on offense also,” Hastings believes. OFFENSE
Running backs: Gill returns, joined by Jaylon Brown.
Tight end: Riffle returns, joined by Alex Silva.
Wide receiver: Shafer returns, joined by Joaquin Quintanilla and Kyle Campos.
O-Line: Barragan-Peterson, Louis Daniels and Kyle Caulson return, joined by Matt Teeling, and Devin Balalio.
Quarterback: Either returners Cobb or Peres. SPECIALISTS:
Kicker: Competing for the position are newcomers Bentley and Julian Audrey.
Spectators are reminded the Voltaire Street entrance to Pete Ross Stadium will remain closed despite ongoing campus construction. Entrance gates are expected to be open off Chatsworth Boulevard and from the Clove Street parking area through an accessible pathway.
