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2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards: Spring Sports People’s Choice Winners

GetSportsFocus — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:10:23 +0000

SAN JOSE, Calif. — July 5, 2026

The 2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards reached another historic milestone as Spring Sports were officially recognized for the first time in the history of the program.

Since the awards were established in 2021, GetSportsFocus has honored the outstanding achievements of high school football players throughout the Greater Bay Area. As GSF continued to expand its coverage across multiple sports, it became clear that the accomplishments of baseball, softball, and track & field student-athletes deserved to be celebrated on the same stage.

This year, that vision became reality.

For the first time, Baseball, Softball, and Men’s and Women’s Track & Field were added to the GSF OTY Sports Awards. The GetSportsFocus staff selected the finalists based on their accomplishments throughout the season, while the fans determined the winners through the inaugural People’s Choice voting process.

Across all GSF OTY Sports Awards categories, 12,978 votes were cast, making this the largest voting event in the history of the awards.

The inaugural Spring Sports People’s Choice Awards recognize athletes and teams whose dedication, leadership, and championship performances made the 2026 spring season one to remember.

Baseball Player of the Year

Few baseball players enjoyed a season as complete as Valley Christian catcher Nathan Miller.

The Webster University commit helped lead the Warriors to another outstanding campaign that culminated with a CCS Open Division Championship and the program’s first CIF NorCal Championship. Miller’s leadership behind the plate, offensive production, and ability to perform in the biggest moments earned him overwhelming support from the fans.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Nathan Miller – Valley Christian — 79.0%

Finalists

Felix Chang – Archbishop Mitty — 12.7%

Ben Hayden – De La Salle — 8.2%

Baseball Team of the Year

Valley Christian continued to cement its place among California’s premier baseball programs.

The Warriors captured their 12th CCS championship before making even more history by winning the program’s first CIF NorCal Championship, defeating De La Salle in the regional final. Their remarkable postseason run and dominant finish made them a deserving choice for Baseball Team of the Year.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Valley Christian Warriors — 87.8%

Finalists

De La Salle Spartans — 12.2%

Softball Player of the Year

Archbishop Mitty standout Kyleigh Mace earned the inaugural GSF Softball Player of the Year Award following another championship season.

The BYU commit helped lead the Monarchs to a CCS Open Division Championship while finishing with an outstanding 26-4 overall record and a 9-1 league mark. Her consistency, leadership, and championship experience made her one of the premier softball players in Northern California.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Kyleigh Mace – Archbishop Mitty — 38.5%

Finalists

Alanna Clincy – Willow Glen — 32.1%

Jaime Oakland – St. Francis — 29.4%

Men’s Track Star of the Year

Brady Tse of The Harker School delivered one of the finest track seasons in California.

The Stanford commit captured the CIF State Championship in the 300-meter hurdles with a winning time of 36.23 seconds while also finishing runner-up in the 110-meter hurdles. Tse also became the first state champion in Harker School history, making his accomplishments even more memorable.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Brady Tse – The Harker School — 64.5%

Finalists

Case Jacobson – St. Francis — 18.9%

Isaiah Muse – Valley Christian — 16.5%

Women’s Track Star of the Year

Los Altos star Daniela Hughes earned Women’s Track Star of the Year after one of the most remarkable seasons in the state.

The Cal Berkeley commit was described by many as a “once-in-a-generation athlete” after winning the CIF State Championship in the triple jump while also placing fourth in the 100-meter hurdles against California’s best competitors. Her versatility and dominance throughout the season made her a deserving recipient of the inaugural award.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Daniela Hughes – Los Altos — 33.1%

Finalists

Ellie McCuskey-Hay – St. Ignatius — 25.7%

Amirat Temi Aganju – Pittsburg — 21.2%

Amaya Bharadwaj – Palo Alto — 20.0%

* * * * * * * * *

Congratulations to every finalist selected by the GetSportsFocus staff and every People’s Choice winner selected by the fans. Your accomplishments helped define an unforgettable spring season while becoming part of the history of the GSF OTY Sports Awards.

GSF OTY Sports Awards

Recognizing Excellence. Building Legacy. Inspiring the Next Generation.

2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards: Winter Sports People’s Choice Winners

GetSportsFocus — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:57:17 +0000

SAN JOSE, Calif. — July 5, 2026

The 2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards marked a historic milestone for GetSportsFocus as Winter Sports were officially added to the annual awards program for the first time.

Since the GSF OTY Sports Awards began in 2021, the focus had been on recognizing excellence in football. As GetSportsFocus expanded its coverage throughout the school year, it became clear that the achievements of basketball, soccer, and wrestling student-athletes deserved the same level of recognition.

This year, that vision became a reality.

For the first time, Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer, and Men’s and Women’s Wrestling were included in the People’s Choice Awards. While the GetSportsFocus staff selected the finalists based on their accomplishments throughout the season, fans from across the Greater Bay Area cast their votes to determine the winners.

The response was tremendous.

Across all GSF OTY Sports Awards categories, more than 12,900 votes were cast, reflecting the growing passion and support for high school athletics throughout the Greater Bay Area and surrounding Northern California communities.

The inaugural Winter Sports People’s Choice Awards celebrate athletes who excelled on the court, the pitch, and the wrestling mat while representing their schools with excellence, leadership, and sportsmanship.

Boys Basketball Player of the Year

The future of Northern California basketball is incredibly bright, and no player captured the attention of fans quite like Boss Mhoon.

The King’s Academy standout earned the inaugural GSF Boys Basketball Player of the Year Award after an outstanding season that established him as one of the nation’s top young prospects. Now a member of the Riordan Crusaders, Mhoon carries a growing list of Division I scholarship offers while maintaining a 4.0 GPA, proving excellence can be achieved both in the classroom and on the court.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Boss Mhoon – The King’s Academy — 45.0%

Finalists

Andrew Hilman – Riordan — 38.8%

Elias Obenyah – Salesian — 16.2%

Girls Basketball Player of the Year

Valley Christian’s Kenedi Nomura earned the inaugural Girls Basketball Player of the Year Award following another outstanding season for the Warriors.

The University of Puget Sound commit demonstrated leadership, consistency, and outstanding play throughout the season while helping Valley Christian remain among the area’s premier girls basketball programs.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Kenedi Nomura – Valley Christian — 46.9%

Finalists

McKenna Woliczko – Archbishop Mitty — 36.4%

Maliya Hunter – Archbishop Mitty — 12.2%

Ugreat Daniels – Priory — 4.5%

Boys Soccer Player of the Year

Michael Scavotto of St. Francis earned the inaugural GSF Boys Soccer Player of the Year Award after an unforgettable senior season.

The Cal Poly Pomona commit established himself as one of the Greater Bay Area’s premier attacking players while earning WCAL Forward of the Year honors. He continued his outstanding play in the GSF Senior All-Star Game, scoring three goals to lead all players and further showcase his finishing ability on one of the biggest stages of the season.

Scavotto’s combination of skill, leadership, and consistent production made him a deserving choice as the first-ever GSF Boys Soccer People’s Choice Player of the Year.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Michael Scavotto – St. Francis — 44.7%

Finalists

Nico Collins – Del Mar — 42.2%

Luis Macias – Alvarez — 13.1%

Girls Soccer Player of the Year

Los Gatos standout Ale Munnake became the inaugural Girls Soccer Player of the Year after leading another championship-caliber season.

The Stanford-bound standout helped lead the Wildcats to a CCS Championship while continuing to establish herself as one of Northern California’s premier players.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Ale Munnake – Los Gatos — 37.4%

Finalists

Caitlin Motil – St. Francis — 32.5%

Emma Henzi – San Ramon Valley — 15.9%

Abby Forsgren – Bishop O’Dowd — 14.2%

Men’s Wrestler of the Year

Bellarmine’s Tommy Holguin earned the inaugural Men’s Wrestler of the Year Award following another remarkable season on the mat.

The San Francisco State commit captured WCAL and CCS championships before finishing third at the CIF State Championships, completing one of the most impressive wrestling resumes in Northern California.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Tommy Holguin – Bellarmine — 52.1%

Finalists

Moses Mendoza – Gilroy — 24.1%

Kaleo Garcia – Gilroy — 13.5%

Jacob Perez – Alvarez — 10.3%

Women’s Wrestler of the Year

Tamara Grace of Gilroy earned the inaugural Women’s Wrestler of the Year Award after another outstanding postseason run.

Despite an early upset during the CIF State Championships, Grace demonstrated tremendous determination by battling back to finish third in the state. The Southern Oregon commit’s resilience and competitive spirit made her a deserving recipient of the inaugural award.

People’s Choice Results

Winner

Tamara Grace – Gilroy — 36.4%

Finalists

Kiana Lien – Mountain View — 25.6%

Haru Duus – Fremont — 19.0%

Shayna Ward – Oakland Tech — 19.0%

The addition of Winter Sports marks another significant step in the continued growth of the GSF OTY Sports Awards.

Congratulations to every finalist selected by the GetSportsFocus staff and to every People’s Choice winner recognized by the fans. Your accomplishments helped define an outstanding winter season and established the first chapter in what promises to become a lasting tradition.

The GSF OTY Sports Awards continue to celebrate excellence while recognizing the student-athletes whose dedication, leadership, and commitment inspire the next generation throughout the Greater Bay Area.

GSF OTY Sports Awards

Recognizing Excellence. Building Legacy. Inspiring the Next Generation.

2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards: Football People’s Choice Winners

GetSportsFocus — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:27:16 +0000

SAN JOSE, Calif. — July 5, 2026

Football is where the GSF “OTY” (Of The Year) Sports Awards began.

Since launching in 2021, GetSportsFocus has recognized the outstanding student-athletes, teams, coaches, and unforgettable moments that define high school football throughout the Greater Bay Area. For the first five years, GSF staff selected each award winner based on season-long performance, accomplishments, leadership, and overall impact.

The 2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

For the first time in the history of the awards, GetSportsFocus introduced People’s Choice voting. While the GSF staff continued to evaluate the season and select the finalists in every category, the winners were determined by the fans.

The response exceeded every expectation.

Across all GSF OTY Sports Awards categories, 12,978 votes were cast, making this the largest and most successful voting event in the history of the awards.

The 2025 football season produced championship teams, unforgettable performances, nationally ranked recruits, rising stars, and remarkable stories throughout the Greater Bay Area. The inaugural People’s Choice Football Awards celebrate those accomplishments while recognizing every finalist who earned the respect of the GSF staff and the high school football community.

GSF Ultimate Game-Changer of the Year

The GSF Ultimate Game-Changer Award is the highest individual football honor presented by GetSportsFocus.

Unlike position awards that recognize excellence at a single position, the Ultimate Game-Changer Award honors the player whose overall impact changes the outcome of football games through leadership, versatility, production, toughness, and the ability to perform on the biggest stage.

For the inaugural People’s Choice Awards, that honor belongs to Serra standout Malakai Taufoou.

The Oregon commit earned 29.6 percent of the fan vote after a remarkable season that showcased his ability to influence every phase of the game. Whether lining up on offense, making plays on defense, or contributing on special teams, Taufoou consistently demonstrated why he is regarded as one of California’s premier football players.

Championship teams are built around players who elevate everyone around them, and Taufoou embodied that throughout Serra’s championship season. His leadership, athleticism, versatility, and relentless competitiveness made him a fitting recipient of the highest individual honor in GSF football.

Official Results

Winner

Malakai Taufoou – Serra — 29.6%

Finalists

Ryder Lyons – Folsom — 28.0%

Michael Mitchell Jr. – Riordan — 27.5%

Jaden Jefferson – De La Salle — 14.9%

Offensive Player of the Year

Lincoln running back Kyan Phillips earned Offensive Player of the Year after one of the most productive offensive seasons in Northern California.

Phillips rushed for 1,828 yards on 242 carries while finishing with 2,435 all-purpose yards and an incredible 47 touchdowns. His explosive running style and consistency helped power Lincoln throughout a memorable championship season.

Official Results

Winner

Kyan Phillips – Lincoln — 48.1%

Finalists

Tommy Tofi – Riordan — 32.1%

Caedon Afsharipour – St. Ignatius — 11.3%

RJ Mosley – Pittsburg — 8.5%

Defensive Player of the Year

Defense wins championships, and Bubba Vargas proved that every week.

The De La Salle linebacker finished another outstanding season with 64 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and numerous game-changing plays, including an interception against St. Francis and a dominant playoff performance against Pittsburg. His physical style of play and leadership helped anchor one of Northern California’s premier defenses.

Official Results

Winner

Bubba Vargas – De La Salle — 41.8%

Finalists

DJ Sanchez – Riordan — 40.3%

Japheth Tofaeono – Pittsburg — 17.8%

Junior of the Year

Riordan’s Adonyae Brown established himself as one of California’s elite juniors.

The UNLV commit produced 24 touchdowns and 1,627 total yards while consistently delivering against top competition. Brown’s combination of power, speed, and versatility made him one of the most complete offensive players in the region.

Official Results

Winner

Adonyae Brown – Riordan — 57.1%

Finalists

Jace Cannon – Serra — 42.9%

Sophomore of the Year

Drew Cumby emerged as one of the brightest young quarterbacks in the Greater Bay Area.

The St. Francis signal caller earned WCAL Sophomore of the Year honors while displaying poise beyond his years. At 6-foot-3, Cumby has already established himself as one of the area’s rising stars.

Official Results

Winner

Drew Cumby – St. Francis — 45.7%

Finalists

Andrew Ho – Branham — 33.4%

Landon Miller – De La Salle — 20.9%

Freshman of the Year

Making an immediate impact at the varsity level is never easy, but Archbishop Mitty’s Mannix Jennings did exactly that.

Jennings finished his freshman campaign with 30 tackles and eight tackles for loss, establishing himself as one of the top young defensive players in the Greater Bay Area.

Official Results

Winner

Mannix Jennings – Archbishop Mitty — 57.7%

Finalists

Taupaki Latu – Serra — 42.3%

Quarterback of the Year

Few quarterbacks in America have generated more excitement than Ryder Lyons.

The five-star BYU signee once again showcased his elite arm talent, athleticism, and leadership while guiding Folsom through another outstanding season. His ability to create explosive plays both inside and outside the pocket made him the fan choice for Quarterback of the Year.

Official Results

Winner

Ryder Lyons – Folsom — 46.4%

Finalists

Michael Mitchell Jr. – Riordan — 36.1%

Jaden Galvan – St. Mary’s — 17.6%

Running Back of the Year

Adonyae Brown added a second GSF OTY award after earning Running Back of the Year.

Brown consistently delivered against elite competition, including six touchdowns against Serra and a remarkable performance against nationally ranked Folsom. His physical running style and ability to take over games separated him from an outstanding group of finalists.

Official Results

Winner

Adonyae Brown – Riordan — 48.3%

Finalists

Diego Hernandez – St. Mary’s — 29.0%

Mekai Smith – Balboa — 22.7%

Receiver of the Year

Judge Nash proved to be one of the most dangerous playmakers in Northern California.

The Harvard commit finished with over 1,000 receiving yards while averaging explosive plays throughout the season. His ability to stretch defenses and make difficult catches earned him Receiver of the Year honors.

Official Results

Winner

Judge Nash – Riordan — 52.3%

Finalists

King Wade – Pittsburg — 26.7%

Zui Shelton – St. Ignatius — 21.0%

Linebacker of the Year

St. Francis standout Chase Cahoon anchored one of the area’s top defenses.

The Stanford commit recorded 91 total tackles while displaying outstanding instincts, leadership, and toughness. Cahoon’s consistency throughout the season earned him the support of football fans across the region.

Official Results

Winner

Chase Cahoon – St. Francis — 53.5%

Finalists

Bubba Vargas – De La Salle — 34.0%

Charlie Ball – St. Ignatius — 12.5%

Defensive Back of the Year

Lincoln sophomore Michael Whitelaw continued his remarkable rise by earning Defensive Back of the Year.

Whitelaw played a major role in Lincoln’s outstanding season while showing the instincts and athleticism that point toward an extremely bright future.

Official Results

Winner

Michael Whitelaw – Lincoln — 53.4%

Finalists

Cynai Thomas – Riordan — 34.1%

Kenneth Moore III – St. Mary’s — 12.5%

Special Teams Player of the Year

Special teams often make the difference between winning and losing close football games, and no player demonstrated that more consistently than Lincoln kicker Leo Molina.

Molina provided the Lions with a dependable scoring weapon throughout the season, finishing with 76 total points while converting 67 extra points. His consistency and reliability helped Lincoln capitalize on scoring opportunities during one of the program’s most successful seasons.

Official Results

Winner

Leo Molina – Lincoln — 43.5%

Finalists

Shane Harmer – Los Gatos — 29.0%

Saul Marks – Serra — 18.8%

AJ Carey – Livermore — 8.8%

Utility Player of the Year

Winning one major award is impressive. Winning two is exceptional.

After earning the GSF Ultimate Game-Changer Award, Serra’s Malakai Taufoou added Utility Player of the Year to his list of accomplishments.

Taufoou’s ability to impact every phase of the game separated him from the competition. Whether taking snaps on offense, making game-changing plays on defense, or contributing on special teams, he consistently proved there was no role too big or too small. His versatility embodied what this award represents.

Official Results

Winner

Malakai Taufoou – Serra — 51.7%

Finalists

Cynai Thomas – Riordan — 31.0%

Jeovanni Henley – Serra — 17.2%

Starting Offensive Linemen of the Year

Championship offenses begin with great offensive lines.

The Riordan Crusaders earned Starting Offensive Linemen of the Year after anchoring one of Northern California’s most explosive offenses. Their physicality, discipline, and teamwork allowed the Crusaders to establish the run while protecting one of the area’s premier passing attacks.

Although offensive linemen rarely receive the headlines, this unit proved once again that football games are often won at the line of scrimmage.

Official Results

Winner

Riordan Crusaders — 71.0%

Finalists

St. Mary’s Rams — 29.0%

Starting Defensive Linemen of the Year

Serra’s defensive front set the tone every Friday night.

The Padres consistently controlled the line of scrimmage, pressured quarterbacks, disrupted running games, and allowed the rest of the defense to play aggressively. Their dominance in the trenches played a significant role in Serra’s championship season.

Official Results

Winner

Serra Padres — 44.8%

Finalists

De La Salle Spartans — 39.5%

Pittsburg Pirates — 15.7%

Best Single Game Performance of the Year

Every season has performances that fans remember for years.

Lincoln’s Kyan Phillips delivered one of those unforgettable moments during the CCS Championship Game against Branham.

Phillips crossed the goal line six times, carrying the Lions to one of the biggest victories in program history. His remarkable championship performance earned him the inaugural GSF Best Single Game Performance Award.

Official Results

Winner

Kyan Phillips – Lincoln (CCS Championship vs. Branham) — 53.5%

Finalists

Adonyae Brown – Riordan vs. Serra — 22.0%

Ryder Lyons – Folsom vs. Serra — 15.3%

Mekai Smith – Balboa (San Francisco Section Championship) — 9.1%

Coaching Staff of the Year

Behind every successful football program is a coaching staff that builds culture, develops talent, and prepares athletes for success beyond the field.

The Lincoln Lions coaching staff earned Coaching Staff of the Year after leading one of the most memorable seasons in school history. Their leadership helped establish a disciplined, resilient team that consistently rose to the occasion against top competition.

Official Results

Winner

Lincoln Lions — 48.0%

Finalists

Riordan Crusaders — 30.3%

St. Ignatius Wildcats — 15.2%

Balboa Buccaneers — 6.5%

Team of the Year

Winning championships is never easy, and the St. Ignatius Wildcats proved throughout the postseason that they were among the elite programs in California.

Their remarkable season included a CCS Division II Championship, a CIF Northern Regional Championship, and a CIF 3-AA State Championship. The Wildcats’ balanced roster, disciplined play, and championship mentality earned them the GSF Football Team of the Year Award.

Official Results

Winner

St. Ignatius Wildcats — 29.6%

Finalists

Bishop O’Dowd Dragons — 24.7%

St. Mary’s Stockton — 22.8%

Balboa Buccaneers — 22.8%

Student Section of the Year

Great football atmospheres are created by passionate fans.

The De La Salle Spartans Student Section once again demonstrated why it is considered one of the best in Northern California. Week after week, Spartan fans created an electric environment while proudly supporting their team and continuing one of California’s great high school football traditions.

Official Results

Winner

De La Salle Spartans — 44.6%

Finalists

Pittsburg Pirates — 33.3%

St. Ignatius Wildcats — 22.1%

Game of the Year

Some games are remembered long after the final whistle.

The CCS Semifinal between Los Gatos and St. Francis delivered everything fans could ask for—outstanding defense, physical football, dramatic moments, and playoff intensity. Los Gatos emerged with a hard-fought 14-7 victory in what fans selected as the GSF Football Game of the Year.

Official Results

Winner

Los Gatos vs. St. Francis (CCS Semifinals) — 41.6%

Finalists

Gridley vs. Lincoln (CIF Northern Regional) — 37.7%

Serra vs. St. Mary’s (CIF Northern Regional) — 20.7%

* * * * * * * * *

Congratulations to every student-athlete, coach, team, and school recognized during the 2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards. Your accomplishments have become part of the growing legacy of GetSportsFocus and the tradition we continue to build in celebrating high school athletics.

GSF OTY Sports Awards – Recognizing Excellence. Building Legacy. Inspiring the Next Generation.

The Fans Have Spoken: GSF Introduces People’s Choice Voting for the 2026 OTY Sports Awards

GetSportsFocus — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:08:56 +0000

SAN JOSE, Calif. — July 5, 2026

For six years, the GSF “OTY” (Of The Year) Sports Awards have celebrated the outstanding student-athletes, teams, coaches, and unforgettable moments that define high school athletics throughout the Greater Bay Area.

What began in 2021 as a football-only awards program has grown into one of GetSportsFocus’ signature annual traditions. During its first five years, the GSF staff selected the winners based on season-long performance, accomplishments, leadership, character, and overall impact on the game.

The 2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

For the first time in the history of the awards, GetSportsFocus introduced People’s Choice voting, allowing the high school sports community to help determine the winners. While the GSF staff continued its role of evaluating each season and selecting the finalists in every category, the final decision was placed in the hands of the fans.

To ensure a fair voting process, each participant was allowed one vote per category, giving every supporter an equal opportunity to recognize the athletes, teams, coaches, and memorable moments they believed deserved to be honored.

The response exceeded every expectation.

A total of 12,978 votes were cast across all categories, making this the largest and most successful voting event in the history of the GSF OTY Sports Awards. The overwhelming participation reflected the passion of the Greater Bay Area high school sports community and reinforced the growing impact of GetSportsFocus as a platform dedicated to celebrating student-athletes and the people who make high school sports special.

The evolution of the GSF OTY Sports Awards extends far beyond fan voting.

When the awards debuted in 2021, they featured just 10 football categories. As GetSportsFocus expanded its year-round coverage, the awards evolved alongside it. This year, the program grew to 36 award categories, creating the most comprehensive recognition of high school athletics in GSF history.

The 2026 expansion welcomed several exciting additions.

For the first time, Girls Flag Football became part of the GSF OTY Sports Awards, recognizing one of California’s fastest-growing high school sports. The awards also expanded to honor Winter Sports, including Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer, and Wrestling. Spring Sports were added as well, with Baseball, Softball, and Men’s and Women’s Track & Field now receiving the same recognition that football has enjoyed since the awards began.

The growth continued beyond traditional high school seasons with the addition of the GSF 7v7 Tournament Series Awards, recognizing the Team of the Year, Tournament Series MVP, and Coach of the Year. Over the past several years, the GSF 7v7 Tournament Series has developed into one of the premier offseason football events in Northern California, and its inclusion reflects GSF’s commitment to recognizing excellence throughout the calendar year.

Another milestone introduced in 2026 is one that celebrates those whose impact extends well beyond a single season.

This year marks the creation of the GSF Hall of Fame, a new tradition established to honor individuals whose contributions have helped shape high school athletics across the Greater Bay Area. The inaugural Hall of Fame classes will recognize football and soccer, the two sports in which GetSportsFocus currently hosts Senior All-Star Games. As the GSF platform continues to expand into additional sports, the Hall of Fame will grow alongside it, ensuring future generations of outstanding athletes, coaches, and contributors receive the recognition they deserve.

While the awards continue to evolve, the mission remains unchanged.

The GSF OTY Sports Awards were created to celebrate more than statistics, championships, and trophies. They recognize the dedication, perseverance, leadership, sportsmanship, and character displayed by student-athletes throughout the school year. Behind every finalist is a story of early morning workouts, late-night practices, supportive families, dedicated coaches, loyal teammates, and school communities that make high school athletics one of the most meaningful experiences in a young person’s life.

The continued growth of the awards is also a reflection of the growth of GetSportsFocus itself.

What started as a media outlet primarily covering football has developed into a year-round platform highlighting multiple sports while producing feature stories, livestream broadcasts, photography, rankings, player spotlights, Senior All-Star Games, the GSF 7v7 Tournament Series, and now the GSF Hall of Fame. Together, these initiatives share one common purpose: celebrating the student-athletes, coaches, schools, and communities that make the Greater Bay Area one of the nation’s premier regions for high school sports.

The GSF OTY Sports Awards have become an important part of that mission by recognizing excellence across every season of the school year while giving fans an opportunity to participate in honoring the athletes they admire.

This year’s expansion represents more than the addition of new categories. It reflects the continued evolution of GetSportsFocus and its commitment to building a lasting tradition for high school athletics throughout the Greater Bay Area.

On behalf of everyone at GetSportsFocus, thank you to every athlete, coach, parent, administrator, alumnus, and fan who participated in this historic first year of People’s Choice voting. Your enthusiasm helped transform the 2026 GSF OTY Sports Awards into the largest celebration in the history of the program.

Congratulations to every finalist and every winner. Being recognized among the very best student-athletes, teams, coaches, and moments of the 2025-26 school year is an achievement worthy of celebration.

The fans have spoken.

A new tradition has begun.

And together, we continue building a legacy that honors the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future of high school athletics throughout the Greater Bay Area.

Sobrato Captures Inaugural Bulldogs South County Invitational 7v7 Championship

GetSportsFocus — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 18:35:21 +0000

San Jose, Calif. – June 19, 2026

The inaugural Bulldogs South County Invitational 7v7 Tournament proved to be much more than a summer passing league event. Hosted by the Sobrato Bulldogs, the tournament showcased eight programs committed to one thing—getting better.

Teams from Milpitas, Leland, Yerba Buena, Harbor, Gunderson, Piedmont Hills, and host Sobrato spent the day competing with energy, sportsmanship, and intensity. Every game carried the feeling of meaningful preparation for the upcoming high school football season.

One of the biggest takeaways from the event was how much every team improved throughout the day. Coaches weren’t simply chasing wins—they were teaching, evaluating, and building chemistry. Players competed hard, learned from each rep, and elevated their level of play with every game.

When the dust settled, it was Sobrato defending its home field with an impressive 8-6 championship victory over Milpitas.

Milpitas quarterback Jonah Mati guided an explosive offense all tournament long, leading a talented group of playmakers into the championship game. The Trojans consistently moved the football and challenged every defense they faced.

But in the title game, Sobrato’s defense delivered when it mattered most.

The Bulldogs came away with three interceptions, including two game-changing takeaways that halted Milpitas scoring opportunities. Linebacker Jace Aguilera continued his outstanding day with several momentum-changing defensive plays in both the semifinal and championship games. Brady Lennon also made a huge impact on both sides of the football, adding an interception in the championship while contributing offensively throughout the tournament.

Earlier in the semifinals against Leland, Kai Loperena came up with one of the biggest plays of the tournament, intercepting a pass to seal Sobrato’s trip to the championship game.

Offensively, sophomore quarterback Liam Hughes (Class of 2028) efficiently directed the Bulldogs offense. Hughes, the younger brother of Brayden Hughes, who is headed to Butte College after earning GSF Senior All-Star Game MVP honors for Team ICONS, displayed poise beyond his years while spreading the football to several playmakers.

One of his favorite targets was Michael Moore (Class of 2029), who quietly became one of the tournament’s most consistent performers. Moore repeatedly made difficult receptions while also excelling on defense, defending deep balls and making plays from sideline to sideline.

While the championship trophy was a nice reward, Head Coach Joel Rueda emphasized afterward that winning wasn’t the primary objective.

“Our goal is to make this feel as close to real football as possible,” Rueda said after the victory. “What I loved most wasn’t just winning—it was watching us get better every single game. Our pattern reading improved, our communication improved, and we started playing together.”

Rueda explained that every offseason rep is designed to prepare his players for one purpose—competing against elite competition before league play begins.

“Our job is to prepare these guys,” he continued. “We’re going to Fresno to play some of the best teams in the state. We play some of the best teams in the Bay Area because that’s how you find out where you really are. Every team has talented players, so we want our guys competing against the best. We have to keep stacking days.”

That message has clearly resonated throughout the program.

Aguilera credited the Bulldogs’ trust in one another for the championship performance.

“We just came out here and put our best guys on the field,” Aguilera said. “At the end of the day, you’ve got to trust your teammates. If one guy doesn’t make the play, someone else will. Brady had an interception, Liam led the offense, everybody stepped up.”

For Hughes, the chemistry developed during the offseason has been the difference.

“We’ve got Mikey, we’ve got Brady, we’ve got so many guys putting in work every day,” Hughes said. “Everybody is disciplined and keeps showing up to practice. That’s what makes this team special.”

Lennon described his championship interception simply.

“I trusted myself,” he said. “I stayed where I was supposed to be, he threw it up, I went up and made the play.”

Loperena pointed to the Bulldogs’ commitment long before tournament day.

“We’ve been working every day,” he said. “We’re at 6 a.m. practices, paying attention, focusing, and working hard.”

Moore echoed the same message while praising the culture inside the program.

“This whole team is committed,” Moore said. “We wake up for 6 a.m. practices, and nobody complains. That’s what makes this group different.”

The Bulldogs South County Invitational delivered exactly what summer football should provide: quality competition, meaningful development, and another opportunity for athletes to sharpen their skills before the lights come on this fall.

If the inaugural event was any indication, Sobrato has started something that could become one of the Bay Area’s premier summer 7-on-7 traditions.

Baseball Players of the Year and Teams of the Year – 2025-2026 GSF “OTY” Sports Awards

GetSportsFocus — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 23:20:32 +0000

GSF OTY Sports Awards Expands to Include Baseball in Fifth Year of Recognition

For the first four years, the GetSportsFocus OTY Sports Awards focused exclusively on recognizing excellence during the high school football season. Now, in its fifth year, GSF is expanding its awards platform by adding baseball and other sports, giving more student-athletes and teams an opportunity to be recognized for their accomplishments.

The addition of baseball comes after GetSportsFocus Executive Producer Alf Joaquin spent the spring covering the CCS Baseball Championships.

“Baseball, along with the other sports, has always been part of GetSportsFocus,” said Joaquin. “I’m happy to bring it back. Our main sport is football, and many football players also play other sports. ‘OTY’ stands for ‘Of the Year,’ and this recognition format is unique, at least in our coverage.”

The 2026 GSF OTY Baseball category features three outstanding Baseball Player of the Year nominees and two championship-caliber programs competing for Baseball Team of the Year honors.

Baseball Player of the Year Finalists

Click to VOTE NOW!!!

Ben Hayden – De La Salle

Hayden helped lead the Spartans to a 23-5 record, an NCS Championship, and a CIF NorCal Division I Championship Game appearance. The De La Salle sophomore middle infielder batted .479 with 34 hits, 24 RBIs, seven doubles, and 13 stolen bases while striking out only six times all season. His consistency at the plate and ability to impact the game with both his bat and speed made him one of the key contributors to the Spartans’ championship run.

Player Profile: De La Salle ’27 | MIF | 5’11” | 165 lbs

Felix Chang – Archbishop Mitty

Chang emerged as one of the WCAL’s most productive players, leading the league with 30 runs scored. The senior finished with 32 hits, 18 RBIs, six doubles, two triples, two home runs, and eight stolen bases. His signature performance came in the CCS Division II Championship game, where he went 3-for-3 with a home run, triple, and single while scoring two runs and helping lead Mitty to the title.

Off the field, Chang has been equally impressive in the classroom, carrying a 4.0 unweighted GPA, 4.46 weighted GPA, and a 1520 SAT score.

Player Profile: Archbishop Mitty ’26 | INF | 6’0″ | 180 lbs

Nate Miller – Valley Christian

Miller was a major contributor for a Valley Christian team that caught fire during the postseason. The senior batted .384 with 33 hits, 20 runs scored, 17 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases while posting a .495 on-base percentage. His leadership and production helped fuel the Warriors’ championship run, which ended with a CIF NorCal Division I Championship.

On December 11, 2025, Miller announced his commitment to continue his baseball career at Webster University. Behind the plate, Miller has developed into one of the region’s top defensive catchers, recording a 1.9-second pop time while providing versatility as both a catcher and utility player.

Player Profile: Valley Christian (CA) ’26 | Trosky Baseball | 6’1″ | 180 lbs | C/UT | 1.9 Pop Time | Committed to Webster University

Baseball Team of the Year Finalists

De La Salle Spartans

The Spartans finished 23-5, won the NCS Championship, and advanced to the CIF NorCal Division I Championship Game. The season also marked the conclusion of legendary Head Coach David Jeans’ 16-year tenure at De La Salle.

Jeans leaves behind one of the most successful coaching resumes in California high school baseball. During his time at De La Salle, he guided the Spartans to 20 official championships, including three CIF NorCal Championships (2022, 2023, and 2025), 10 North Coast Section Division I Championships, and seven East Bay Athletic League championships. He also compiled an extraordinary 330-77 overall record, helping establish De La Salle as one of Northern California’s premier baseball programs.

His final team added another chapter to that legacy by capturing the 2026 NCS Championship and advancing to the CIF NorCal Division I Championship Game.

Valley Christian Warriors

Valley Christian finished 23-9 overall and proved that championships are won by teams that peak at the right time. After finishing second in the WCAL, the Warriors dominated the postseason, winning the CCS Division I Championship and the CIF NorCal Division I Championship. Their final five victories were all shutouts, including a commanding 12-0 victory over Elk Grove in the NorCal championship game.

The Warriors are led by Head Coach John Diatte, who has guided the program for more than three and a half decades. During his tenure, Diatte has built Valley Christian into one of Northern California’s premier baseball programs, leading the Warriors to multiple CCS and Northern California championships while establishing a tradition of excellence that continues to thrive today.

As GetSportsFocus continues to grow its coverage beyond football, the addition of baseball to the OTY Sports Awards represents another step in recognizing student-athletes and teams across multiple sports. The nominees in this year’s baseball category have established themselves as some of the best players and programs in Northern California, making this one of the most competitive OTY races yet.

High Intensity Bay Area Finished #1, Champion of CHAMPION$ Co-Champs

GetSportsFocus — Wed, 06 May 2026 01:07:03 +0000

High Intensity and GSF Money Team Unite as Co-Champions at Super Team XIII / Champion of CHAMPION$

The 2026 GSF offseason officially came to an unforgettable close on April 26th at Fremont High School in Sunnyvale, California, as some of the Bay Area’s top football athletes gathered for the final stop of the GSF 7v7 and 5v5 Tournament Series: Super Team XIII and the Champion of CHAMPION$ showdown.

From nationally ranked recruits to state champions, the event featured elite competition across every division. In the end, however, the biggest storyline was not just about winning—it was about unity.

Elite Talent Takes the Field

Several of the top athletes in Northern California competed throughout the day, including 3-star national recruits Jaiden Flores of The King’s Academy and Jayden Lewis of St. Francis High School, both of whom hold multiple Division I offers.

Programs from across the Bay Area came together to close out the season, showcasing talent from San Jose, Concord, Danville, San Francisco, the Peninsula, and beyond.

Jaiden Flores summed up the atmosphere after the final:

“You know the High Intensity team and the GSF Money Team came together all representing San Jose, California. Both teams decided to split the money. Everybody goes home happy.”

“Honestly, right now we have the most talented players in San Jose. Valley Christian, Saint Francis, Wilcox, King’s Academy, Moreau Catholic—everybody came out and represented.”

High Intensity Captures Super Team XIII Championship

Coach Alic Ho and High Intensity once again proved why they are considered one of the elite offseason teams in Northern California.

High Intensity defeated Coach Randall’s Y.O.W. squad in the Super Team XIII championship game to secure the tournament title and the $400 cash prize. Y.O.W., built with elite athletes from the Concord and Danville areas, battled through a difficult bracket to reach the final.

One of Y.O.W.’s biggest wins came in the semifinals, where they narrowly defeated one of the fastest-rising teams in the GSF circuit, the UNDERDAWGZ from Alhambra High School, 17–16.

Meanwhile, High Intensity survived one of the most dramatic finishes of the entire tournament.

GSF Money Team appeared ready to advance to the championship before Lincoln High School 2027 safety Michael Whitelaw came through with a clutch interception late in the game, setting up the game-winning drive that gave High Intensity a 16–14 victory.

Champion of CHAMPION$ Ends in Unity

After GSF Money Team defeated the UNDERDAWGZ in the third-place game, the squad earned a rematch against High Intensity in the Champion of CHAMPION$ $600 showdown.

GSF Money Team, wearing black jerseys with money-green print and orange/blue-teal awareness ribbons representing Anti-Bullying and Suicide Prevention awareness, entered the game ready for battle.

But after discussions between captains and coaches from both teams, the two sides made a decision that perfectly represented the spirit of the GSF movement.

Rather than continue battling over the final prize, both teams agreed to split the winnings and finish the season together as co-champions.

It was a powerful ending to the 2026 season and a reminder that the mission behind GSF extends beyond football.

Bay Area Stars Shine Bright

Branham High School quarterback Andrew “Roo” Ho spoke about the atmosphere of having so much local talent together in one place.

“It’s just incredible talent everywhere. Everyone coming together in San Jose to play the sport we all grew up loving—it’s special.”

Branham standout Jeremia Corey, nicknamed “Mr. Reliable,” discussed the chemistry that powered the offense:

“We have some special routes and connections that only us run. They couldn’t stop it.”

St. Francis standout Jayden Lewis also talked about his recovery from injury and his excitement for the upcoming season:

“The recovery process was big, but I feel good now. I’m looking forward to the season for sure.”

Quarterback Kai Imahara, who will play for Archbishop Mitty this fall after previously competing at Wilcox High School, reflected on the talent level:

“The team we put together had a lot of talent. Everybody knows each other. It was just a fun day.”

The King’s Academy standout Aslam Ahmed also spoke about embracing tougher competition after transferring from Fremont High School:

“Going into a school with great competition changed my view and made me work harder for sure.”

Game-Time Captures Another BIG DAWG Championship

The 5v5 competition once again delivered some of the most physical and entertaining football of the day.

VEE Sports, one of the premier offseason OL/DL development programs in the Bay Area, jumped out to an early lead and held a 10–5 advantage at halftime against the defending champions from Game-Time.

VEE Sports entered the tournament with championship pedigree, having won last season’s finale along with the first BIG DAWG tournament of the 2026 season. Known throughout Northern California for developing trench athletes and building highly disciplined linemen, VEE Sports once again showcased why they are considered one of the elite offseason programs in the region.

But Game-Time, built primarily around athletes from Balboa High School and already recognized as three-time state champions, rallied in the second half behind a dominant defensive effort to complete the comeback and secure their second consecutive 5v5 championship of the season.

The championship matchup highlighted the intensity and growth of the BIG DAWG competition, which continues to showcase some of the top linemen and most physical athletes in the Bay Area offseason circuit.

Unity Beyond Competition

One of the most memorable moments of the day came during a youth exhibition game between the 15u Super Team XIII champions Y.O.W. 14u and the 12u Super Team XIII champions from 7v7 Elite.

The game ended in a tie, and both teams gathered together afterward for a group photo—another symbol of the unity and sportsmanship promoted throughout the GSF Tournament Series.

Alf Joaquin Reflects on Historic Season

GSF founder Alf Joaquin reflected on what became the largest championship season in GSF history.

“First and foremost, thank you to all the coaches, parents and athletes who competed in this year’s GSF 7v7 Tournament Series. We crowned 25 champions this season, the most ever in the last nine years.”

Across 25 tournaments involving 12u, 15u, Girls Flag, High School 5v5 and High School 7v7 divisions, GSF continued to expand its impact throughout Northern California.

Joaquin also made sure to recognize the officials and staff who helped run the events throughout the season.

“Most of our refs have been doing this for the last two years. We have a couple of new guys, but most are very experienced. I fully trust them. Most of them are GSF All-Star alumni.”

He also thanked David Corey, owner of Nachos and Tacos Yourway, the first-year sponsor and official caterer of GSF Events.

“They’ve been amazing. The food they serve is always fresh, and it’s the best Mexican food truck in the Bay Area.”

Finally, Joaquin praised longtime GSF athletic trainer Jess Lew of MacDonald High School:

“Gotta give a shoutout to Jess. She’s the best, our MVP. We love her.”

Final Takeaway

The 2026 GSF season ended the same way it began—with competition, passion, and community.

But in the final moments at Fremont High School, it became something bigger than football.

Two rival teams stood together, split the prize money, and ended the season united as champions.

That moment represented exactly what GSF has worked to build over the last nine years.

🏆 Current #1: N0Z0N3 Sets the Standard

GetSportsFocus — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 02:34:18 +0000

GSF Rankings Take Shape: N0Z0N3 Takes the Lead as the Season Heats Up

The race for the top spot in the GSF 15U / Freshman / 8th Grade Division is officially underway, and after four major tournaments, the rankings are beginning to separate contenders from the rest of the field.

With results now in from the NorCal Shootout, Silicon Valley Classic, Top Gun, and the 9th Annual Rapid Fire Tournament, one thing is clear: every game matters, every weekend counts, and the top teams are starting to define themselves.

N0Z0N3 Rises to No. 1

N0Z0N3 currently sits at the top of the rankings after capturing the Rapid Fire Championship, the most impactful tournament of the season because it carried double points in the GSF standings.

Their run was not just impressive — it was timely. N0Z0N3 opened the tournament with a 14-14 tie against T1, then responded with dominant wins over RSF (27-0) and 2G (29-7). In bracket play, they defeated 2G again in the semifinals (22-12) before closing the deal with a 19-12 championship win over Activated.

That final victory over Activated became the biggest result of the season so far, giving N0Z0N3 the biggest jump in the rankings and putting them squarely in the driver’s seat.

How the GSF Rankings Work

The GSF rankings are built around a performance-based system that rewards both production and consistency throughout the season.

Wins and losses remain the foundation of the rankings.
Bracket advancement matters, especially Final Four appearances, runner-up finishes, and championships.
Strength of competition plays a role when teams are closely grouped.
Tournament participation matters because teams that consistently show up and compete build a stronger overall body of work.
Rapid Fire carried double weight, making it the most valuable tournament in the standings so far.

That double-points factor is a major reason why N0Z0N3 surged to the top. Winning Rapid Fire did more than add another trophy — it changed the shape of the standings.

Key Matchups That Changed the Standings

N0Z0N3 vs. Activated — Rapid Fire Championship

Final: N0Z0N3 19, Activated 12

This was the biggest game of the season to date. Activated entered the tournament with one of the strongest multi-event resumes in the division, but N0Z0N3’s win gave them the double-points championship and dropped Activated just below the very top tier. That one game did more to reshape the rankings than any other result this season.

N0Z0N3 vs. 2G — Rapid Fire Semifinal

Final: N0Z0N3 22, 2G 12

2G had built momentum and looked like a team ready to make a serious move in the standings. Instead, N0Z0N3 controlled the semifinal and prevented 2G from reaching the title game, keeping 2G from making an even bigger jump.

Alpha Dawgs vs. DT — Top Gun Semifinal

Final: Alpha Dawgs 14, DT 13

One of the closest and most important games of the Top Gun tournament. Alpha Dawgs survived by a single point, preserved their undefeated run, and turned that into a championship. That narrow semifinal win is a big reason Alpha Dawgs remain firmly in the upper tier of the rankings.

ERA vs. GBGB Vegeta — Silicon Valley Classic Championship

Final: ERA 21, GBGB Vegeta 12

ERA’s championship win at Silicon Valley Classic gave them one of the strongest overall resumes in the division. Beating GBGB Vegeta in the final helped push ERA into the Top 3 discussion and showed that their success was not a fluke.

CreekBoyz vs. 209TMP — NorCal Shootout Championship

Final: CreekBoyz 25, 209TMP 0

This was the most dominant championship performance of the season. CreekBoyz completely controlled the title game and left NorCal Shootout as unquestioned champions. The challenge for CreekBoyz, however, has been tournament volume. Their championship matters, but teams with stronger multi-event resumes have made up ground.

Who Is Rising?

Several teams have helped themselves with strong recent showings.

Activated remains one of the most dangerous teams in the division after a runner-up finish at Rapid Fire and a semifinal run at Silicon Valley Classic. ERA has built one of the strongest complete resumes after winning Silicon Valley Classic and competing in multiple events. T1 Sports Academy also deserves attention after reaching the semifinals at Silicon Valley Classic and opening Rapid Fire by tying eventual champion N0Z0N3.

At the same time, talented teams like CreekBoyz, GBGB Vegeta, and 209TMP still have strong cases, but they need continued appearances if they want to stay in the championship conversation all season long.

Can N0Z0N3 Finish the Year and Win the Cash Prize?

That is now the biggest question in the division.

Right now, N0Z0N3 has the biggest win, the hottest momentum, and the No. 1 ranking. But there is one important reality — they have only played in one GSF tournament so far.

That means their ceiling is extremely high, but so is the pressure. Other teams can still make up ground by stacking tournament appearances, reaching more Final Fours, and continuing to pile up wins. If N0Z0N3 wants to finish the year on top and take home the cash prize, they will likely need to do three things:

Keep entering GSF tournaments
Continue making deep bracket runs
Beat other top-ranked teams head-to-head

The good news for N0Z0N3 is that they already proved they can win on the biggest stage. The challenge now is sustaining that momentum over the rest of the season.

If they continue to show up, continue to compete, and continue to beat teams like Activated, ERA, and Alpha Dawgs, then yes — N0Z0N3 absolutely has a real shot to finish the year at No. 1 and win the cash prize.

N0Z0N3 is the hottest team in the GSF circuit right now, but the race is far from over.

Alpha Dawgs still have one of the cleanest championship runs of the year. ERA has built a strong multi-event resume. Activated remains a serious threat. And several other programs are still very much alive in the standings battle.

The top of the division is loaded, the rankings are tightening, and the road to the cash prize is only getting tougher.

In GSF, rankings are not given — they are earned every weekend.

At the 9th Annual GSF Rapid Fire 7v7 Tournament (15U / Freshman / 8th Grade Division)—a premier event worth double points in the GSF rankings—N0Z0N3 didn’t just win a championship…They told a story.A story of resilience. A story of belief. And a story rooted in something much bigger than football.

From Doubt to Dominance

After opening the tournament with a 14-14 tie against T1, N0Z0N3 had a choice—fold under pressure or rise.They chose to rise.

Defeated RSF 27-0
Defeated 2G 29-7
Defeated 2G again in the semifinals 22-12
Defeated Activated in the championship 19-12

What started as uncertainty quickly turned into one of the most complete runs of the tournament.

“They Always Doubted Us”

For Kamani Harris (WR/ATH, Edison HS ‘28), this championship meant more than just a win.

“We come here and work every day… they always doubted us… my beautiful team over here… Coach Mike always working for us… we just come out here—that’s all we do.”

That edge—that chip on their shoulder—was evident all day. N0Z0N3 didn’t just play to win. They played to prove something.

A Team That Knows How to Respond

Quarterback Kitiona Lafaele (Central East HS ‘29) highlighted the team’s ability to reset and refocus:

“We won the Pylon a few weeks ago… then we took a break… but we came back and went back to it.”

That ability to regroup and return hungry is what separates good teams from championship teams.

Coach Mike Ware: Building More Than a Team

Head Coach Mike Ware has built a program centered on discipline, belief, and opportunity.

“That’s the mission… to go and try to get to the top… we had some downtime… but we came back out here to get back to work.”

“Shoutout to GetSportsFocus… they always give a nice foundation… if you ain’t tapped in, tap in.”

Playing for a Legacy: Tony Perry

N0Z0N3’s identity is deeply rooted in honoring the legacy of Tony Perry.

“He wanted to get the best kids out and help them get to college… his message was to believe in yourself… he brought that DAWG out of us… we’re continuing his legacy.”

This isn’t just a team—it’s a movement built on opportunity, belief, and purpose.

MVP Performance: Marcus Burton Leads the Way

Marcus Burton (RB/LB, Hoover HS ‘28) earned Tournament MVP honors for his impact throughout the day.

“I want to thank the team, coaches, parents…”

A simple message that reflects the culture of N0Z0N3—team first.

Coaching Staff: Giving Back Through the Game

Offensive Coordinator Braxton Hicks emphasized a player-first approach:

“Game plan was get the ball in their hands and let them do what they do… just giving back to the kids.”

Defensive Coordinator Tyler Horton spoke on inspiring the next generation:

“We wear his gear so the kids can see the goal… what they can reach… make it to that high level.”

Respect from the Competition

Even in defeat, Activated Head Coach Tyrone Jones showed respect:

“I wanna play the best… and that’s what we got… phenomenal job… your coaches are preparing you for the next level.”

More Than a Championship

Overcoming doubt
Representing something bigger
Honoring a legacy
Creating opportunities

Yes, N0Z0N3 won one of the biggest tournaments on the GSF circuit. Yes, they earned double points.But this run meant more.N0Z0N3 didn’t just leave Rapid Fire as champions.They left as a team with purpose.A team with identity.A team carrying a legacy forward.And they’re just getting started.

GSF 15U / Freshman / 8th Grade Division Rankings

Based on NorCal Shootout, Silicon Valley Classic, Top Gun, and Rapid Fire (Double Points)

Rank	Team	Tournaments	Why They’re Here
1	N0Z0N3	1	Rapid Fire Champions (Double Points), hottest team right now
2	Alpha Dawgs	1	Top Gun Champions, undefeated and dominant
3	ERA	2	Silicon Valley Classic Champions + NorCal presence
4	Activated	2	Rapid Fire Runner-Up + Silicon Valley semifinalist
5	GBGB Vegeta	1	Silicon Valley Classic Runner-Up, strong offensive team
6	CreekBoyz	1	NorCal Shootout Champions, dominant early season
7	East County Lions	1	Top Gun Runner-Up, strong bracket performance
8	2G	1	Rapid Fire Final Four team
9	DT	1	Top Gun semifinalist, consistent competitor
10	T1 Sports Academy	2	Silicon Valley semifinalist + tied N0Z0N3 at Rapid Fire
11	WickFit	2	Multiple events, strong wins across both
12	G4G 14u	2	Competitive across Silicon Valley + Top Gun
13	209TMP	1	NorCal runner-up, strong early showing
14	RSF	2	Competed in multiple tournaments
15	College Park Knights	1	Strong pool play but no deep run
16	GSF Unlimited	2	Battled across multiple events
17	Apex Premier	1	High scoring but inconsistent
18	Marin Heat Black	1	Faced tough NorCal competition
19	Marin Heat Blue	1	Development stage

GSF 7v7 Tournament Series Rankings With One Last Tournament To Go

GetSportsFocus — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 06:50:47 +0000

Current GSF 7v7 Varsity Rankings

Below are the current High School Varsity rankings based on the updated GSF scoring system, which rewards championships, runner-up finishes, pool play wins, playoff wins, and season-long participation across multiple GSF tournaments.

Rank	Team	Points	Tournaments	Notes
1	DT (DT Precision)	585	4	2x Champion, strongest overall resume
2	CCST	570	4	Rapid Fire Champion, major late-season push
3	College Park Knights	520	4	Consistent high-volume winner
4	RSF	505	4	Deep playoff runs across multiple events
5	GSF	495	5	Most active top team, Super Team XII Champion
6	High Intensity	480	2	Silicon Valley Champion
7	GBGB	455	3	Super Team XI Champion
8	Game-Time	420	3	Big Open Runner-Up, trending upward
9	2G	395	2	Runner-Up finish and strong playoff record
10	Alpha Dawgs	370	2	Final Four presence and solid consistency
11	The Finest	305	3	Earned ranking through participation and results
12	Underdawgz	280	2	Strong Big Open performance
13	Prolific Star	285	2	Strong multi-event resume
14	ERA White	270	2	Reliable playoff team
15	N0Z0N3	260	2	Strong Rapid Fire showing
16	M7	360	1	Big Open Champion, capped due to one event
17	ELEVATE	405	1	Runner-Up finish, limited sample size
18	Team PALA	340	1	Good run, limited participation
19	North Coast Elite	325	1	Strong Top Gun showing
20	TOPNOTCH YouthSF	310	1	Final Four finish, limited sample

GSF Introduces Balanced Ranking System for 2026 7v7 Varsity Division

As the 2026 GSF 7v7 Tournament Series continues to grow in competition and participation, the need for a fair and accurate ranking system has become more important than ever.

With teams traveling from across Northern California and beyond to compete in GSF events, the goal has always been to identify not just the most talented teams—but the teams that consistently perform at a high level throughout the entire offseason.

After evaluating results from multiple tournaments, GSF has introduced a balanced ranking system designed to reward both performance and participation.

How the Ranking System Works

The GSF Varsity rankings are based on a cumulative point system that tracks results across all official tournaments in the series.

Championship Win: 100 points
Runner-Up Finish: 50 points
Each Pool Play Win: 10 points
Each Playoff Win: 35 points

In addition, the Rapid Fire Tournament carries extra weight:

Rapid Fire Champion Bonus: +50 points
Rapid Fire Runner-Up Bonus: +25 points

This structure ensures that teams are rewarded for advancing deep into tournaments while also recognizing consistent success throughout the day.

Why Participation Matters

One of the biggest adjustments to the ranking system is the emphasis on tournament participation.

While winning a championship is a major accomplishment, rankings should also reflect a team’s commitment to competing across multiple GSF events. Teams that consistently show up, compete, and win games over time build a stronger overall resume than teams with limited appearances.

As a result, teams that have only participated in a single tournament—and did not reach the finals—are adjusted accordingly in the rankings.

This ensures that the rankings reflect:

Consistency across the season
Strength of schedule and competition
Commitment to the GSF tournament series

Balancing Peak Performance and Season-Long Success

The updated system strikes a balance between rewarding teams that peak at the right time and those that consistently perform throughout the offseason.

For example:

Teams that win championships are heavily rewarded
Teams that make repeated deep playoff runs gain value through consistency
Teams that participate in multiple tournaments build stronger resumes

This prevents rankings from being skewed by a single strong performance while still recognizing teams capable of winning at the highest level.

A System Built for Competitive Integrity

The goal of the GSF ranking system is simple: create a fair, transparent, and competitive structure that accurately reflects team performance across the entire season.

By combining results, wins, playoff success, and participation, the rankings now provide a more complete picture of which programs are truly performing at the highest level.

As the season heads toward its final tournament, the rankings will continue to evolve—ensuring that every game, every win, and every tournament appearance matters.

Looking Ahead

With the final event approaching, teams now have one last opportunity to strengthen their position and compete for the top spot in the GSF 7v7 Varsity rankings.

The updated system ensures that the final standings will reflect not just who won—but who earned it over the course of the entire season.

M7 Travels Through Snow and Rain to Capture GSF “The Big Open” Championship

The 9th Annual GSF “The Big Open” 7v7 Tournament delivered one of the most memorable storylines of the 2026 offseason—and it belonged to a team that traveled hundreds of miles through snow, rain, and adversity just to get there.

M7, a squad out of Reno, Nevada, arrived in Hayward after battling harsh weather conditions on the road. What followed was a dominant, undefeated run through one of the toughest tournaments on the GSF calendar.

With only 12 players, in cold and rainy conditions, and against a loaded field of Bay Area talent, M7 proved its toughness, chemistry, and resilience—finishing the day as champions.

A Journey Defined by Adversity

Head Coach Tim Green described the trip as anything but easy, as the team navigated difficult travel conditions just to compete.

“I know it was a long trip. We figured we’d get there and figure out how to get home later because mother nature was not being very kind. We just piled in the cars, white-knuckled it for a good 60 miles, and we showed up.”

That mindset carried over into the tournament. No excuses—just execution.

Top Seeded From the Start

M7’s championship run included a statement semifinal win over host team Toa Strength, 24–11, before closing out Game-Time in the title game.

Despite the rain, the cold, and a wet football all day, M7 looked comfortable—almost like they were built for it.

That shouldn’t be a surprise. Many of these players come from McQueen High School, a program that captured the Nevada NIAA 4A State Championship with an 11–2 record, including a perfect 5–0 league mark.

Precision at Quarterback

At the center of M7’s offense was quarterback Ryder Tucker, who controlled the game with poise and accuracy throughout the tournament.

His ability to distribute the ball and keep the offense moving earned high praise—his precision was so sharp, you could say he has the hands of a surgeon.

“I grew up with most of these kids. It’s just something to do in the offseason to get better instead of being on the couch. Coming out here and playing 7v7 is good work for us. That’s why we won state.”

A Breakout Star: Otearle Birden

Wide receiver Otearle Birden, a sophomore and recent transfer from Florida, was named MVP of the tournament by his team after a standout performance.

Coach Green shared how quickly Birden became part of the group:

“We were out working out in the park, and I saw him putting in work. I told him, ‘You’re coming to practice with us, and you’re coming to this tournament.’ That was five days ago—now he’s MVP.”

For Birden, it was about more than football:

“I do this for my mom. I’m trying to make it and get out. This team is a great team.”

Chemistry Wins Championships

With only 12 players, M7 relied heavily on chemistry and communication—something the team takes pride in.

Isaiah Beck explained what makes the group special:

“Chemistry. We all love each other, we’re always around each other. We communicate well across the whole defense, and everything just meshes. That’s why we won.”

Running back Nico Panelli echoed that same sentiment, while also recognizing the support system behind the team:

“Our parents always come out and support us. That’s part of what gives us our chemistry. We know we have people behind us every time we play.”

What This Means for the Rankings

With the championship win at The Big Open, M7 immediately enters the GSF Varsity rankings as one of the most dangerous teams heading into the final tournament of the season.

While other programs have built their resume over multiple events, M7 proved that a complete team, playing at a high level at the right time, can change the landscape in a single weekend.

Looking Ahead

With one final tournament remaining, all eyes now turn to the 3rd Annual Champion of Champions at Fremont High School in Sunnyvale, California.

If M7 carries this momentum into the final event, they could play a major role in deciding who finishes the 2026 GSF 7v7 season at the top.

From battling snow on the road to dominating in the rain, M7’s championship run at The Big Open was built on toughness, trust, and elite execution.

They didn’t just win a tournament—they made a statement.

Game-Time (SF) Wins First GSF Title – BIG DAWG #012 5v5 Tournament

GetSportsFocus — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:41:28 +0000

GSF Big Dawg #012 5v5 Tournament Recap: Game-Time Makes a Statement in Just Tournament #2

The GSF Big Dawg #012 5v5 Tournament delivered a physical and competitive day of trench football on Sunday, April 12, featuring Game-Time, Toa Strength, and Trench Town in the 11u–13u lineman division.

Each team brought toughness and effort, but by the end of the day, one program clearly separated itself. In just their second tournament appearance, Game-Time went undefeated and captured the Big Dawg #012 championship.

How the Teams Fared Against Each Other

The tournament featured a round-robin style format followed by playoffs, giving each team multiple opportunities to compete head-to-head.

Game-Time vs. Trench Town: Game-Time controlled this matchup throughout the day, defeating Trench Town 20-10 in their first meeting and then dominating the rematch 26-4. The two teams met again in the championship, where Game-Time completed the sweep with an 18-12 victory to secure the title.

Game-Time vs. Toa Strength: Game-Time also handled the host team, earning back-to-back 20-10 wins over Toa Strength in pool play. Their consistency in this matchup played a major role in their undefeated finish.

Trench Town vs. Toa Strength: These two teams were evenly matched all day. Their two pool-play games both ended in 15-15 ties, showing how competitive the matchup was. In the playoff round, Trench Town finally broke through with a 17-13 win, earning their spot in the championship game.

Overall, the results showed a clear hierarchy: Game-Time led the field, while Trench Town and Toa Strength battled closely behind in highly competitive matchups.

Game-Time Goes Undefeated

Led by 3-time State Champion Coach Fred Velasquez of Balboa High School, Game-Time showcased discipline, physicality, and strong fundamentals throughout the tournament.

Their ability to consistently win at the line of scrimmage set them apart. From their opening game to the championship, Game-Time controlled the tempo and executed at a high level, proving that even as a young team, they are already a force in the Big Dawg series.

A Coach’s Message Beyond Football

After the tournament, Coach Velasquez spoke about something bigger than the game — mentorship.

“Man, I want to help these kids out, you know, not a lot of mentors out there anymore, but if you are a mentor, keep fighting, help these kids out.”

His words reflected the deeper purpose of GSF events: building young athletes through guidance, structure, and positive influence.

MVP: Navi Uhatafe

The tournament’s MVP honors went to Navi Uhatafe, a 10th grader from Balboa High School, who played a major role in Game-Time’s undefeated run.

Playing both defensive tackle and defensive end, Navi consistently impacted games with his physical presence and effort in the trenches.

“I learned lots of things you know being my teammate you know they always inspire me, especially with my big brother.”

“Looking forward to getting another ring, you know, state champion.”

Big Dawg #012 highlighted exactly what the series is about — competitive trench play, player development, and high-level coaching.

In just their second tournament, Game-Time went undefeated, beat every opponent multiple times, and finished the job in the championship. It was a complete performance — and a clear sign that this group is just getting started.

M7 Travels Through Snow and Rain to Capture GSF “The Big Open” Championship

With only 12 players, in cold and rainy conditions, and against a loaded field of Bay Area talent, M7 proved its toughness, chemistry, and resilience—finishing the day as champions.

A Journey Defined by Adversity

Head Coach Tim Green described the trip as anything but easy, as the team navigated difficult travel conditions just to compete.

“I know it was a long trip. We figured we’d get there and figure out how to get home later because mother nature was not being very kind. We just piled in the cars, white-knuckled it for a good 60 miles, and we showed up.”

That mindset carried over into the tournament. No excuses—just execution.

Top Seeded From the Start

M7’s championship run included a statement semifinal win over host team Toa Strength, 24–11, before closing out Game-Time in the title game.

Despite the rain, the cold, and a wet football all day, M7 looked comfortable—almost like they were built for it.

Precision at Quarterback

At the center of M7’s offense was quarterback Ryder Tucker, who controlled the game with poise and accuracy throughout the tournament.

His ability to distribute the ball and keep the offense moving earned high praise—his precision was so sharp, you could say he has the hands of a surgeon.

“I grew up with most of these kids. It’s just something to do in the offseason to get better instead of being on the couch. Coming out here and playing 7v7 is good work for us. That’s why we won state.”

A Breakout Star: Otearle Birden

Wide receiver Otearle Birden, a sophomore and recent transfer from Florida, was named MVP of the tournament by his team after a standout performance.

Coach Green shared how quickly Birden became part of the group:

“We were out working out in the park, and I saw him putting in work. I told him, ‘You’re coming to practice with us, and you’re coming to this tournament.’ That was five days ago—now he’s MVP.”

For Birden, it was about more than football:

“I do this for my mom. I’m trying to make it and get out. This team is a great team.”

Chemistry Wins Championships

With only 12 players, M7 relied heavily on chemistry and communication—something the team takes pride in.

Isaiah Beck explained what makes the group special:

“Chemistry. We all love each other, we’re always around each other. We communicate well across the whole defense, and everything just meshes. That’s why we won.”

Running back Nico Panelli echoed that same sentiment, while also recognizing the support system behind the team:

“Our parents always come out and support us. That’s part of what gives us our chemistry. We know we have people behind us every time we play.”

What This Means for the Rankings

With the championship win at The Big Open, M7 immediately enters the GSF Varsity rankings as one of the most dangerous teams heading into the final tournament of the season.

While other programs have built their resume over multiple events, M7 proved that a complete team, playing at a high level at the right time, can change the landscape in a single weekend.

Looking Ahead

With one final tournament remaining, all eyes now turn to the 3rd Annual Champion of Champions at Fremont High School in Sunnyvale, California.

If M7 carries this momentum into the final event, they could play a major role in deciding who finishes the 2026 GSF 7v7 season at the top.

From battling snow on the road to dominating in the rain, M7’s championship run at The Big Open was built on toughness, trust, and elite execution.

They didn’t just win a tournament—they made a statement.

GSF 7v7 Varsity Rankings (Updated After The Big Open)

Rank	Team	Points	Tournaments	Key Notes
1	DT (DT Precision)	585	4	2x Champion, most consistent
2	CCST	570	4	Rapid Fire Champion (+50 bonus)
3	College Park Knights	520	4	Most consistent win total
4	RSF Black	505	4	Deep runs every event
5	GSF	495	5	Super Team XII Champion
6	High Intensity	480	2	Silicon Valley Champion
7	GBGB	455	3	Super Team XI Champion
8	Game-Time	420	3	Big Open Runner-Up
9	ELEVATE	405	1	Super Team XI Runner-Up
10	2G	395	2	Super Team XII Runner-Up
11	Alpha Dawgs	370	2	Final Four team
12	M7	360	1	Big Open Champion
13	Team PALA	340	1	Silicon Valley Final Four
14	North Coast Elite	325	1	Top Gun Final Four
15	TOPNOTCH YouthSF	310	1	Super Team XII Final Four
16	The Finest	305	3	Rapid Fire Final Four
17	King of Kings	300	2	Consistent playoff team
18	Prolific Star	285	2	Strong across events
19	ERA White	270	2	Consistent playoff team
20	N0Z0N3	260	2	Rapid Fire QF