00:00 PART 1/3 GSF Weekly – Coach Andrew Talks Bay Area Panthers IFL Championship, UNCUT w/ Steve Papin 

04:11 GSF Weekly – Bay Area Panthers Strength & Conditioning Coach Andrew DeLa Cruz discussed his first-year experience as a pro franchise S&C coach. The Panthers won the IFL National Championship. 

15:00 GSF UNCUT – Coach Steve Papin is the head football coach of Santa Teresa High, and as a former Arena Football player for the San Jose SaberCats, he now serves as the IFL Sideline Analyst for the Bay Area Panthers. Santa Teresa made history last season as the first true South Bay public school to win a Central Coast Section and a CIF NorCal title. They played on the biggest stage in California football, the CIF State Championship. This was Papin’s first year at Santa Teresa and his 9th year coaching high school football in the Bay Area.

As the sun sets on the summer and the cool breeze of autumn begins to whisper its arrival, the Sequoia High School Ravens are gearing up for what promises to be an exhilarating and transformative football season. The echoes of their impressive 10-2 record in the 2022 campaign still resonate in the hearts of their devoted fans, but the Ravens are not content to rest on their laurels. With a talented roster, a proven leader, and an exciting change of scenery, the stage is set for Sequoia to continue its football ascension. 

The 2022 season saw the Sequoia Ravens soar to new heights under the command of their star quarterback, John Larios. Larios, now suiting up for Foothill College under the watchful eye of Coach Rav’s Owls, orchestrated an offensive explosion that left opponents reeling. Averaging over 28 points per game, the Ravens’ offense showcased a dazzling array of skills and strategies that kept the scoreboard flashing. While Larios has taken his talents to the next level, his legacy continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. 

Enter the Class of 2024, led by the indomitable Luke Holmes. Holmes, a cornerstone of the formidable defense that dominated the league last season, is poised to step into a leadership role for this year’s squad. Alongside him stand pillars of strength and skill in the form of Brody McKenna and the dynamic junior multi-sport athlete, Lesoni Olive. 

Olive, a standout in football, rugby, track, and wrestling, exemplifies the spirit of versatility and dedication that defines Sequoia athletics. His involvement in various sports has not only honed his athleticism but also instilled in him a unique perspective that he brings to the gridiron. Olive’s commitment to pushing his limits and adapting his skills from different disciplines has undoubtedly contributed to making him the exceptional football player he is today. 

Under the watchful guidance of Head Coach Rob Poulos, the Sequoia Ravens have set their sights on a new challenge. A springtime announcement sent shockwaves through the football community as the team revealed their ascent to a higher division: The Peninsula Ocean League. This bold move is a testament to the team’s unwavering determination to test their mettle against even tougher opponents. 

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. In a thrilling twist, the Ravens will be kicking off the 2023 season in style, as they journey to Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, to face off against the Kealakehe Waveriders. The tropical backdrop of palm trees and azure waters will serve as the canvas for an opening game that promises to be a dazzling display of athleticism and sportsmanship. Fans can mark their calendars for Friday, August 25th, as the Sequoia Ravens take flight in a game that will set the tone for a season of high-flying football action. 

As the Sequoia High School Ravens brace themselves for a season of challenges, growth, and triumphs, one thing is abundantly clear: their journey is fueled by the passion of a community, the legacy of exceptional players, and the unwavering commitment to excellence.

Santa Teresa High School Saints Gear Up for an Exciting 2023 Football Season

As the summer sun sets and the anticipation builds, football fever is sweeping across Santa Teresa High School. The echoes of last year’s triumphs and the promise of a bright future have ignited the spirit of the Saints as they prepare to charge onto the gridiron for the 2023 high school football season.

Rewind to 2022, and the Saints etched their name into history by clinching the CIF State Division 6-AA NorCal Championship. This remarkable feat marked a watershed moment for the school, as they became the first true South Bay public school to capture such an honor. The Saints defied expectations, showcasing their tenacity, grit, and sheer skill on the field. Though the State Championship trophy eluded them, they held their heads high after a hard-fought battle, narrowly falling 7-0 to the Classical Academy from Escondido, CA.

The cornerstone of this success was the trio of talent that paved the way for the Saints’ ascent. Team Captains Marc Carlson, Joshua “The Bear” Reyes, and Noah Gardere seamlessly transitioned to junior college football at San Jose City College. Their journey from high school heroes to college gridiron warriors is a testament to their dedication and prowess.

QB Jayden Arevalo, the field general who orchestrated the symphony of victory, played a pivotal role in steering the team to multiple wins. His leadership and strategic prowess were instrumental in crafting the success story of the Saints.

Leading the charge from the sidelines was Head Coach Steve Papin, who took the reins in 2022. A former star player in the Arena Football League, Papin’s own journey from high school football at Piedmont Hills to collegiate success at Portland State, and ultimately his time with the San Jose Sabercats, served as a beacon of inspiration for his players. Papin’s leadership and expertise guided the team to heights previously uncharted, setting a new standard for excellence at Santa Teresa.

The individual accolades that adorned the Saints’ players were well-deserved and underscored their exceptional contributions. Marc Carlson’s stellar defensive prowess earned him the coveted title of Most Outstanding Defensive Player of the Year for the Blossom Valley Athletic League Mt. Hamilton League. Joshua Reyes, a force to be reckoned with, clinched the title of Most Outstanding Offensive Back. The first-team all-league recognition bestowed upon Joseph Tapia, Noah Gardere, Jefferey Kerr, and Salvador Morales cemented their status as elite athletes within their league.

Looking ahead to the 2023 season, the Saints are brimming with optimism and determination. The departure of key players has created an opportunity for new stars to rise, and star athlete Joseph Tapia, alongside his fellow senior Tevita Pekipaki, are poised to lead the team to further glories. Junior QB Brenton Gaches exudes confidence in the team’s potential, acknowledging their youth while emphasizing their relentless work ethic.

Coach Papin’s commitment to nurturing talent is evident in the infusion of youth into the varsity team. Fresh faces, including two freshmen and six sophomores, are set to take the field, eager to prove their mettle at the highest level of competition. The strong presence of underclassmen speaks volumes about the future prospects of Santa Teresa football.

The spirit of camaraderie and determination reverberates through the entire program, as over 100 student-athletes gear up to represent Santa Teresa on the football field. Varsity and JV teams united, the sense of unity and shared purpose is palpable, fostering an environment ripe for success.

As the sun sets on August 25th, the Saints’ first test of the season awaits, as they face off against Pioneer High School. The anticipation is electric, the stakes high, and the ambitions soaring. With Coach Papin and his dedicated staff at the helm, and the unwavering support of the Santa Teresa community, the Saints are poised to pen yet another thrilling chapter in their storied football legacy. The 2023 season and beyond promises excitement, growth, and the pursuit of excellence, as the Saints rise to meet the challenges ahead.

Oak Grove High School has produced some remarkable student-athletes over the years, John Beau Menchavez, a talented young man with a drive for success both on and off the field, has carved his path through sports, facing challenges head-on, and emerging stronger every time.

A Humble Beginning in Flag Football and Basketball

Menchavez’s sports journey began in the 7th grade when he took an interest in flag football. Basketball, however, was his true love and the first sport he ever played. Throughout his high school years at Oak Grove, he continued to be an essential part of the Oak Grove Eagles basketball team, showcasing his versatility and skill on the court.

Making Sacrifices for His Passion

During his high school freshman year, Menchavez resided in Los Banos, Ca, where his mom lived. He played QB in a Wing-T offense. However, his ambition to play as a wide receiver led him to make a tough decision. With his mother’s support, Menchavez decided to move to San Jose to attend Oak Grove High School, where he believed he could explore his true potential on the football field.

Challenges and Triumphs

Despite his determination, fate had other plans. Menchavez suffered a leg injury during his sophomore season, sidelining him as part of the 2021 Oak Grove JV team. Nevertheless, this setback only fueled his fire, and he remained determined to come back stronger.

Guidance from Mentor Coach Joel Cordero

During his time at Oak Grove, Menchavez found mentorship in first-year head coach Joel Cordero. Coach Cordero’s guidance proved invaluable to the young athlete, both on and off the field. The duo’s bond would grow stronger as they later teamed up for the GSF HEROES, where Menchavez further honed his skills alongside his teammates.

From Struggles to Successes

As the junior season rolled around, Menchavez faced challenges with his team, finishing with a 4-6 record and only one victory in the league. But these struggles only served as motivation for him and the Oak Grove Eagles to push harder and reach new heights. In the Spring, Menchavez also ran track and was one of the only sophomores to qualify for the Centra Coast Section.

GSF 5-Star

During the Spring 7v7 of 2023, Menchavez became part of the GSF 5-Star team. Playing alongside other skilled athletes, he showcased his abilities and helped the team secure a significant victory at the Silicon Valley Classic. The team made an impressive appearance in the finals of four other tournaments as well, solidifying Menchavez’s reputation as a player to watch.

Dreams of the Future

As Menchavez enters his senior year, he is focused on making it a memorable one, both on and off the field. While he hopes to play at the next level in football, his ultimate goal lies beyond the gridiron. With ambitions set on the real estate industry, Menchavez exemplifies the perfect balance between determination in sports and a strong sense of direction in life.

An Invitation to the GSF Senior All-Star Game

John Beau Menchavez’s talents have not gone unnoticed. After an interview with Alf Joaquin, executive producer of GetSportsFocus, he was extended an invitation to play in the 2nd GSF Senior All-Star Game for the GSF 5-Star team. A testament to his skills and hard work, this opportunity presents Menchavez with a chance to leave a lasting mark on his high school football career.

John Beau Menchavez’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and ambition. He has overcome hurdles and embraced opportunities with enthusiasm, a true quality of an individual bound for great things in life.

Oak Grove will open up the 2023 season on the road at Hollister on Friday, August 25th.

San Jose, California – The Bellarmine Bells hosted the Oak Grove Eagles for their last Summer scrimmage before the dead period, setting the stage for an exciting football season ahead. Both teams are fully equipped with talented players.

For Bellarmine, this season marks a new chapter as they welcome a fresh coaching staff. Although it’s early days, the team’s performance in the scrimmage displayed promising signs of strength and coordination. Notably, the offensive line looked rock-solid with Bennet Anderson standing tall at left tackle. On defense, the linebackers stole the show with Ben Coulter, Reese McKeever, and Jacob Tatom proving to be hard-hitting forces in the middle. The absence of numbered jerseys may have caused some confusion, but the talent on display was solid.

One player that stood out among Bellarmine’s ranks was Zayne St. Laurent, a junior wide receiver with tremendous potential. With him as a powerful asset, along with the impressive physique and skills of quarterback Parker Threatt, a 3-Star Recruit by 247Sports.com, the Bells are poised to make a strong impact this season. Threatt’s added muscle mass will undoubtedly boost his performance, making him a top contender for the league MVP title. Let’s not forget the supporting cast of playmakers like Fisher White and Dominic Grizelj, who add depth and versatility to Bellarmine’s passing game.

As for Oak Grove, they are reuniting their formidable 9-1 JV team from 2021, instilling a sense of continuity and familiarity within the squad. Led by the talented senior Akino McGee and the multi-talented Shamar Mathews, the Eagles are looking like a force to be reckoned with. Expect Mathews to excel on both sides of the ball, showcasing his versatility and impact on the game. John Beau-Menchavez and Junior Alvarado, are returning leaders set to play crucial roles in the team’s success.

Quarterback Ryan Wright has impressed with his enhanced durability and added mass, making him a sturdy and reliable presence on the field. However, Oak Grove’s key to success lies in their defense and defensive front. Players like Shaan Lathan, an imposing 6’3″ 365lb lineman, and Christian Byford, a relentless 6’1″ 200lb OLB/LB, will undoubtedly be pivotal in shutting down opponents and creating opportunities for their offense.

Both teams are heavily senior-laden, hungry to prove their worth, and determined to leave their mark on the upcoming season. Bellarmine aims to repeat as CCS Champs and even has its sights set on a State championship ring. Oak Grove, under the guidance of second year head coach Joel Cordero, aspires to go the distance and claim the ultimate prize in December.

There’s something exciting brewing in these San Jose football powerhouses, and fans can expect an intense, action-packed season. With solid lineups and star players ready to shine, Bellarmine and Oak Grove will definitely deliver some exciting highlights to the GSF Universe.

San Jose, California – In an exciting announcement, Joseph Bey, a rising star from Serra High School’s Class of 2024, has declared his commitment to play college football at San Jose State University. Hailing from the Bay Area, Bey is a 3-Star National Recruit who made a name for himself on the varsity football team as a freshman. As the Fall of 2023 approaches, he is undoubtedly one of the best, if not the best, secondary players to watch out for.

Bey’s football journey began at the tender age of 5, playing alongside his older brother Shamir. Under the guidance of their father, Shamir Bey Sr., who served as their youth coach, the brothers developed a passion for the game. Joseph’s versatility on the field quickly became apparent, earning him his first offer from Pitt when he was just a freshman. Not long after, schools such as Arizona State, Portland State, UNLV, Nevada, Columbia, and finally San Jose State recognized his talent and extended offers.

While Bey initially found success as a running back, Coach Patrick Walsh and his staff recognized his exceptional abilities and decided to utilize him primarily as a defender. Nevertheless, Bey’s versatility remains a valuable asset, as he can step in as a running back if needed. This adaptability showcases his athleticism and dedication to honing his skills in multiple positions.

Beyond his prowess on the field, Joseph Bey exemplifies the term “student-athlete.” Sporting an impressive 3.8 GPA, he chose Serra High School due to its commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics. He also participated in track and field during the spring, showcasing his well-rounded abilities.

As the Fall season approaches, the Serra Padres are poised to dominate once again. Ranked as the number one team in the CCS, their defensive prowess will undoubtedly be bolstered by the talents of Joseph Bey and his teammate, 3-Star National Recruit linebackers Danny Niu and Jabari Mann, who also committed to San Jose State University in the spring. At the same time, Niu chose San Diego State University. With ten returning starters, the Padres are expected to establish an ironclad defense that will challenge their opponents.

For Joseph Bey, committing to San Jose State is more than just a decision to stay close to home. It is a stepping stone toward his ultimate goal of playing in the NFL. Inspired by the success of fellow Serra alumni such as Atonio Mafi, who was drafted by the New England Patriots, and Junior Fehoko, a former Saint Francis student who was selected by the Dallas Cowboys, Bey is determined to make his mark on football’s biggest stage.

Bey’s potential as a professional football player is undeniable. With his exceptional skill set, versatility, and unwavering dedication, it is not far-fetched to imagine his name being called out on the NFL Draft stage in the coming years. As he embarks on this exciting chapter of his football career at San Jose State University, all eyes will be on Joseph Bey, eagerly anticipating the next chapter of his journey towards football greatness.