#1. VALLEY VIKINGS (9-9, 6-2)
Last Season District Finish: 2nd Place
Quick Hit: The Valley Vikings finished second in District in 2014 but only graduating one player from that squad you have to think the Vikings are ready to jump to the next level. A state tournament bid, in what is essentially a one bid league could be in the making for a team that returns 10-players. Dominika Rodriguez (2016) and Marisa Flores (2017) and two prospects on the watch ready to lead the Vikings this season. The Vikings come into the season ranked 13th in the state (NMPreps.com 6A Preseason Rankings).

The biggest question regarding the Vikings: Will they do enough in pre-district competition to earn a quality seed come State Tournament time?


#2. ALBUQUERQUE HIGH BULLDOGS (12-7, 8-0)
Last Season District Finish: 1st Place
Quick Hit: The Lady Bulldogs ran through District 5-6A last season with a state tournament appearance after a 12-7 season. Graduating 6-players from last years squad has the Bulldogs potentially taking a small step back in 2015. They will rely on two-year lettermen, Ebony Baty (2016), Savannah Perez (2016), Marissa Rivas (2016) and Savannah Zavela (2017).

The biggest question regarding the Bulldogs: Graduating that many players you have to wonder if the Bulldogs can stay on-top of the District. Do they have the pieces to reload and improve?


#3. WEST MESA MUSTANGS (6-12, 3-5)
Last Season District Finish: 3rd Place
Quick Hit: The Mustangs have to be thinking bigger things than a #21 ranking (NMPreps.com 6A Preseason Rankings) in the preseason outlook. The Mustangs graduate one player from a young team. Savannah Greer (2016), Janaeh Manu (2016), Sarah Patrick (2016) and Carly Shack (2018) are the four returners that hope to take the Mustangs dancing come state tournament time. They can't afford any upset losses in District and have to have a better showing during the pre-district schedule.

The biggest question regarding the Mustangs: The Mustangs have the returners, but will it be enough to overthrow the favorite in Valley or the reigning champ Albuquerque High Bulldogs?


#4. RIO GRANDE RAVENS (4-14, 2-6)
Last Season District Finish: 4th Place
Quick Hit: The Ravens are 8-45 (0-17 in 2013) in the last three seasons and hoping to rely on a developing season. The Ravens will look to Savannah Williams (2016) and Jamie Montoya (2016) to bring the experience for the Ravens to a team that returns 8-players from last seasons' team. The District returns plenty of young talent and historically a one-big league this team will have to overcome talented teams in West Mesa, Abq High and Valley.

The biggest question regarding the Ravens: They have some returning prospects, can they find some pre-district wins and make district games competitive this season making the leap?


#5. ATRISCO HERITAGE ACADEMY JAGUARS (3-15, 1-7)
Last Season District Finish: 5th Place
Quick Hit: The one team that you have to like to make a huge turn around is the Lady Jaguars. Returning the entire team from the 2014 squad the Jaguars will look to continue building their program. 7-players will be from the 2016 class and look to be a team that could make a run come district play. Alyssa James (2016), Arlene Ramirez (2017) and Shaylah Gregory (2016) are the names this preseason to know for a team that returns plenty.

The biggest question regarding the Jaguars: This team started to play well at times can they keep that level of play consistent throughout the entire season?


2015 5-6A PRESEASON ALL-DISTRICT TEAM
Dominika Rodriguez (2016), Valley *Player of the Year Candidate
Savannah Greer (2016), West Mesa *Player of the Year Candidate
Savannah Williams (2016), Rio Grande *Player of the Year Candidate
Alyssa James (2016), Atrisco Heritage *Player of the Year Candidate
Ebony Baty (2016), Albuquerque High *Player of the Year Candidate
Marisa Flores (2017), Valley
Savannah Perez (2016), Albuquerque High
Marissa Rivas (2016), Albuquerque High
Savannah Zavela (2017), Albuquerque High
Carly Shack (2018), West Mesa
Sarah Patrick (2016), West Mesa
Janaeh Manu (2016), West Mesa
Jamie Montoya (2016), Rio Grande
Arlene Ramirez (2017), Atrisco Heritage
Shaylah Gregory (2016), Atrisco Heritage


More Stories:

• 2015 Volleyball Preseason Headquarters (Previews, Rankings, Etc)

The Motto is Tough and Tenacious, the Goal is No. 29
By Kyle Henderson of NMPreps.com

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ARTESIA, NEW MEXICO - My son Kaden and I were sitting the Artesia High School Training Room on Monday afternoon talking with strangers and now new friends of the Artesia Training Staff while the Bulldogs were kept inside during a lightning delay. “Dallas Bollema was a stud, who was on that basketball team when you guys played Espanola at The Pit, did you know Landry Jones is 3rd string with the Steelers, hey Kyle how is Clovis and some Albuquerque Area teams looking?” Those were just some of the conversations that took place during a 45-minute lightning delay, small talk yes, but I was thinking about all the big time talent that has came out of Artesia High School, a town of just 9,000 residents. Just a few nights ago, we watched Travis Wilkinson an Artesia Graduate rush for 200+ against the North and while he’s not on the roster this year, the Bulldogs continue to pump out to tier high school athletes. When the Bulldogs did get onto the practice fields on Monday afternoon is a light down pour, it’s clear to see that Artesia yet again is going to be gunning for their 29th state championship, sure last year is last year, but it’s not to often that things change especially football wise in Big Orange Country…

Artesia Overview

“One of the things we’re real fortunate about this year is that we have a core nucleolus of leaders from last year back from last year’s team so they know what it took to get where you want to be. No doubt though the key every year is to know that last year is now behind us and we’re starting all over again and we feel like our summer program and everything has gone pretty well, we’re excited about getting two-a-days started, and continuing to work hard,” Said Henderson on Monday afternoon regarding this year’s roster.

The Bulldogs won their 28th state football championship in 2014 defeating Belen in the finals 49-21. On the season it was quite the year scoring 564-points and allowing 299 including wins against Deming, Carlsbad, Las Cruces, Alamogordo, beating Goddard twice, and beating Belen twice. Obviously one of their huge keys to success last year was Running Back Travis Wilkinson and though he graduates and new running back Jesse Galleogs has some big shoes to fill, the Bulldogs return more than 10 starters from a team that went 12-1. 6-foot-5, 184 pound Justin Houghtaling threw for 3,436-yards and 38 touchdowns last year and while he is yet to land a D-1 or D-2 offer which is puzzling, he’ll be one of the top quarterbacks again in New Mexico once again. With a live arm, great leadership abilities, and a straight gamer, it’s somewhat laughable that no college coaches have extended next level opportunities, because he certainly fits the mold. His targets this year include Kaymann Elston, Daniel Leon, and Chavez Matthews at slot. New running back is Jesse Gallegos as mentioned. Up front the Bulldogs are led by Marcus Bramwell 6-4, 225 and Jesse Salano at tackle. On the defense watch for “Mike” linebacker Jacob Enriquez at 6-foot-1 and 230 pounds, the Bulldogs have had some outstanding linebackers over the years, Enriquez started at “Sam” last year and looks like one of the top linebackers we’ve seen this summer. Also watch for incoming junior Cody Scott at 5-foot-10, 190 pounds, Jhryss Granger at 5-11, 265 pounds looked great on Monday, Carlos Carrasco will be a rare three-year starter in the secondary, he has 7 career-interceptions in-two seasons. Also watch for Caleb Brewer in the secondary and Grady Frost at backer.

Tough and Tenacious

“We use that as this year’s motto and feel that in the City of Artesia as well as the Bulldog Football program that those are words that have been key words throughout the years with the community and the football team. We feel that our success like most people’s, has been built on hard work, not necessaryily on having great athletes year in and year out, but just getting people to get out there and work as hard as they can and we’re looking forward to that kind of year,” said Henderson on this year’s team motto.

Key Returners

Justin Houghtaling - Quarterback - Senior - 6-5, 185
Chaz Matthews - Slot - Senior - 5-10, 181
Carlos Carrasco - Defensive Back - Senior, 5-8, 140
Grady Frost - Linebacker - Senior - 5-9, 164
Jacob Enriquez - Linebacer - Senior - 6-1, 230

New Names To Know

Jesse Gallegos - Running Back - Senior - 5-9, 172
Cody Scott - Defensive Linemen - Junior - 5-10, 190
Jacob Rivera - Offensive Linemen - Senior - 5-10, 258
Tristan Bowden - Offensive Linemen - Senior - 6-3, 210
Marcus Bramwell - Offensive Linemen - Junior - 6-4, 225
Jharyss Granger - Defensive Linemen - Junior - 5-11, 265

2015 Schedule

“Our schedule always forces us to be prepared and this year is no different than last year. I am sure Belen is looking forward to having us up there again. Hobbs is our second week and they have done really well against us in the last couple years, we’ve got our challenges right away, but the big challenges are to be playing well by the time you enter the playoff season,” Commented Henderson on the Bulldog’s schedule.

8-28 @ Belen
9-4 Hobbs
9-11 Valencia
9-18 @ Deming
9-25 @ Carlsbad
10-2 @ Las Cruces
10-9 Alamogordo
10-23 @ Roswell
10-30 Goddard
11/6 Lovington

Senior Quotes

We caught up with Quarterback Justin Houghtaling and Linebacker Jacob Enriquez after practice, here are there thoughts. “Leadership to the Artesia Bulldogs means to lead by example and we believe that is going to take us a long way: maybe to state, maybe to a district championship, everyone really is a in a leadership role here in Artesia,” said Houghtaling. When asked if there is any pressure being the Bulldog Quarterback, “I guess you could look at it two-ways. You can look at it as pressure whether you can have success again or you can take this as a challenge to got and get that far again. You can tell the guys this is what it takes and you have to work even harder because we are going to have a big target on our backs.” Here is what senior linebacker Jacob Enriquez had to say, ”We’ve had some linebackers here at Artesia that have represented our team motto tough and tenacious, they have always worked hard, we as a linebacker corps have some big shoes to fill there, but those older guys have helped us out scheme wise and leadership wise. Representing a Bulldog is a huge honor because the whole community is behind you.”

Video interview with Cooper Henderson and more photos will be added soon. Working as fast as possible to get you exclusive behind the scenes info on some of the top teams across New Mexico!

Another Prep Football Powerhouse Has Emerged In Las Cruces
By: Kyle Henderson of NMPreps.com

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Overview

Another power prep football program has emerged in the City of Las Cruces. Is anyone really surprised by that? Last year the Hawks made their first big stab the playoff scene going 11-2 on the year and reaching the 5A Semifinals. This is just Centennial’s 4th year having a varsity football program: Centennial’s All-Time Record stands at 20-10 with two straight trips to the playoffs.

When the program started these incoming current seniors were just freshman and a good amount of them started, so really at Centennial this year you have some 4-year starters which not many other programs can say this year: Most notably are their big three in George Nino their 320 pound Center, Cameron Burkley, their 275 pound guard, and Jerry Gurrola their 225 pound defensive end. The Hawks will jump into Class 6A next year and though they won 11-games in 2014, it’s not like they have hid from playing in-city talent, in-fact last year the beat Onate 42-10 in the opener and then beat Las Cruces during the midway point 49-47 in a shootout.

The practices at Centennial always seem blistering with heat, their is not a tree in sight, music plays on a portable FM karaoke machine, white jersey’s represent offense and red represent defense. The school and practice field have an un-real look at the Organ Mountains , Coach Ocampo now entering his 4th year at Centennial is a player’s coach, they like to be around him, they follow his lead, he gets on them from time to time, but his way of coaching creates family, unity, and execution on the football field. The quote that Ocampo ended our interview with says it best, “I’m blessed to be here at Centennial.”

What To Expect

“We lost some good seniors last year, we have a lot of kids that have played some football returning, I feel good about the chemistry, feel good about the kids coming back, and we just have to work hard and get better every week. I would say offensive linemen are our strength. We also have some strong leadership right now that is going to be tested. We’ve got a lot of challenging games up ahead, we got 27 seniors that care a lot of this program, and that have been here for 4-years, so I would say leadership is a big strength too,” Said Ocampo on the incoming 2015 team.

The Hawks graduate All-State and All-Star Quarterback Christian Cedano who had a monster senior season and also lose Running Back Jaylon Boston who is no longer on the team for undisclosed reasons. Taking over those two positions will be Junior to be Dante Lopez at 6-foot-1, 158 who is a good passer, but we have yet to see him run in open space, however Lopez did step in late in the season (when Cedano was injured) during the playoffs and had good showings.

Taking over at running back is Keith Jasso who we really liked at practice. Strong kid at 5-foot-10 and 165 pounds, played a good amount last year, but he’s an aggressive football player that will run you over. The Hawks also have some good tight ends in Chase Austin and Zeke Herrera. Austin will be a three-year starter and another who has impressed us over the years. Split out wide are two very talented receivers in JR Pena who was named the NMPreps Elite Combine WR MVP and Bryce Rewalt who caught for over 300-yards as a junior. Both are capable of making big plays, Pena is a game-breaker, in-fact he returned a kick for at touchdown against Las Cruces last year.

Up front Centennial’s offensive line is anchored by George Nino at 6-foot-1 and 320 pounds and Cameron Burkley at 6-foot-0, 275 pounds. Two of the top linemen in New Mexico for the last few years. Nino benched 185 pounds 21 times, Burkely benched 185 pounds 25 times, the two are outstanding in pass protection, move their feet well, and are both leaders. We have not had a dynamic duo up front like these two in New Mexico in quite some time. Also watch for Bo Glines, the brother of Scott Glines who according to Ocampo has had a good camp. Also watch for Vince Rubino and Steven Garcia who each started last year up front as well.

Their defensive line is stacked with Jerry Gurrola entering the season as a 4-year starter and one of the best pass rushers in New Mexico at 6-foot-1, 225 pounds. Gurrola is amazingly strong benching 185 pounds 20 times at the combine and continues to standout as one of the best in New Mexico, a top 20 player for sure. Watch for 5-foot-7, 269 pound Marcus Minnick originally from Bakerfields, California to make a splash this year up front, he’s like a really heavy bowling bowl coming at you 40 miles per hour and he also has great pass rushing technique.

Edgar Hernandez is a 220 pound Junior that is very good as well and very strong benching 185 pounds 20 times at the combine, watch for these three to have an outstanding season and cause plenty of headaches. Also watch for Antonio Luna in the trenches. The Linebackers to watch include: Jake Boykin at 182 pounds, a two-year starter who impressed us this summer. Gabe Pacheco and Cedric Reynaud are two newcomers to watch and though they played JV last year, Coach Ocampo expects each to have a big year. We don’t know to much about the Centennial secondary, but assume Centennial puts their best on the field come tight game situations.

“Obviously these kids that are seniors have been with us for 4-years and were kind of like the JV to the Varsity the first year. At Manzano the buy in seemed like it took a while, but here at Centennial the kids down in Las Cruces are committed and these kids are born and bred to play football. That is all testament to the kids, parents, the City of Las Cruces, and just how much passion and support there is for high school football and that filters all the way through. I’m just blessed to be here.”

Key Returners

Jake Boykin - Linebacker - 5-10, 182, Senior
Cameron Burkley - Offensive Linemen - 6-0, 275, Senior
Bryce Rewalt - Receiver - 5-10, 141, Senior
George Nino - Offensiv Linemen - 6-1, 320, Senior
Jerry Gurrolla - Defensive Linemen - 6-1, 236, Senior
Chase Austin - Tight End - 5-11, 182, Senior
Marcus Minnick - Defensive Linemen - 5-7, 269, Senior
Keith Jasso - Running Back - 5-10, 165, Senior

New Names To Know

Edgar Hernandez - Offensive Linemen, 5-10, 218, Junior
Dante Lopez - Quarterback - 6-1, 158, Junior
Zeke Herrera - Tight End - 5-10, 184, Senior
Augustine Pena - Receiver - 5-7, 131, Junior
Brandon Gomez - Running Back - 5-6, 147, Senior
Adrian Acosta - Defensive Linemen - 5-10, 200, Senior
Gabriel Pachaco - Linebacker - 5-7, 174, Senior

2015 Schedule

Aug. 28 @ Oñate, 7 p.m. (At Field of Dreams)
Sept. 3 Gadsden, 7 p.m.
Sept. 11 Del Norte, 7 p.m.
Sept. 18 @ Socorro, Texas 7 p.m.
Sept. 25 Las Cruces, 7 p.m. (At Field of Dreams)
BYE
* Oct. 9 Los Lunas, 7 p.m.
* Oct. 16 @ Chaparral, 7 p.m.
* Oct. 23 @ Valencia, 7 p.m.
* Oct. 29 Belen, 7 p.m.
* Nov. 5 Santa Teresa, 7 p.m.

Our Take

This team is going to make another run, likely an even deeper run to the finals, and they really have the talent to bring another state title banner to Las Cruces. You can’t help but circle weeks 1 and week 5 against Onate and Las Cruces, the hype and rival settings make those much watch games. Where Centennial is going to win games is no doubt in the trenches, not just on offense, but on defense as well, their defensive front is going to be dominate. It’s a new program, they don’t have a lot of friends, they don’t care, they’re going to fly high not only this year, but for years to come. Centennial has quickly arrived at the table of prep football powers.

So many to thank during our 1,165 mile two-a-day tour, but I wanted to thank our continued sponsor Tate Branch Auto Group. There would be zero way I could get around and across New Mexico without their help. For your next vehicle purchase please contact Joby Houghtaling at 575.3-8.3146 and tell them that Kyle Henderson of NMPreps.com sent you. Within this thread are (scroll down) 9-team previews published over the last week. Enjoy! More coverage to follow.





Clovis will rely on Offensive Firepower In 2015
Complete Preview Here
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Artesia's Team Motto is Tough & Tenacious Entering 2015 Season
Complete Preview Here
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Hobbs no longer youthful, ready to leave their mark
Complete Preview Here
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Mindset and work ethic propels Rockets
Complete Preview Here
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New coach, new playing style coming to Carlsbad
Complete Preview Here


With 16 returning starters, Alamogordo has high expectations
Complete Preview Here
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Junior Heavy Onate, looks dangerous
Complete Preview Here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21kQqHgUQbs

Las Cruces Enters 2015 With Chip On Their Shoulder
Complete Preview Here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hACy960L4wc

Mayfield once again is a State Title Contender
Complete Preview Here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNeXCyYAqEw

Centennial enters 2015 loaded with talent
Complete Preview Here (Coming Sunday)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsTzhxBqKQs

Again, thanks to everyone who bought my son and I food, spoke with us, took care of us, etc. I am so thankful and blessed to have this job!

Either Las Cruces High or Mayfield (or both) has been in the big-school state title game in each of the last 10 seasons, and 18 of the last 20. The Bulldogs have six championships in that period, the Trojans seven.

But since Centennial opened, LCHS and MHS have had their enrollments drop significantly. Mayfield has been hit especially hard. Meanwhile, Rio Rancho and Cleveland have emerged as huge schools with top-notch programs.

So has the Golden Age of football in Las Cruces passed? Las Cruces and Mayfield will no doubt always be good, but will they dominate like they have recently?

Las Cruces Enters 2015 With Chip On Their Shoulder
By: Kyle Henderson of NMPreps.com

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Overview

Over the past 5-seasons at Las Cruces High School the Bulldawgs have a record of 48-13 with two quarterfinal appearances, one semifinal showing, and two state championships. Their current program prestige is among the top 5 teams in New Mexico under Head Coach Jim Miller who is 6-0 in state title games since taking over in the late 90’s. As you drive up to Las Cruces High School there are construction signs and contraction workers everywhere almost frantically trying to complete the new school in August.

While Las Cruces High School is finally getting a facelift, the feel of championship football is still present, the football parking lot is still dirt, the weight room is average for a program of their caliber, and the coaches office, well it’s in the lower bottom 10 of 6A. With that said, Las Cruces doesn’t seem to care about those fancy additions, they care about pumping out championships and since the dawn of NMPreps.com in 2006, no team has competed with more enthusiasm to win than the Bulldawgs. No team.

The practices at Las Cruces are always intense, it’s an old school feel, but after a 6-6 season and dipping out in the quarterfinals Las Cruces is hungry to get back to work and eager to get a little bit of redemption on those teams that beat them in some tight games. They lost to Rio Rancho (6A State Champs) 30-22 and then 41-23 in the quarterfinals, they lost to rival Centennial 49-47, lost to Artesia (5A State Champs) 41-33, lost to rival Onate 25-20, and lost to rival Mayfield 28-27.

What To Expect

“It’s a good group, they work hard, we have those 70 kids each and everyday that are committed and understand it’s two-a-days and though it’s been over 100 degrees out here the last few days they have been going hard and I like their effort. We’re going to make some mistakes, but that is why we are practicing and we’re correcting them and they are getting better,” said Jim Miller about his roster going into the 2015 season.

The Bulldawgs return quite a bit of guys that saw varsity experience in 2014 because of the amount of injuries they were plagued by. NMPreps.com 2015 Mr. Football Candidate and NMPreps Elite Combine MVP Kameron Miller returns for his senior season at quarterback. The 6-foot-2, 185 pound D-1 prospect has had a stellar summer racking up offers from New Mexico State and New Mexico. As a junior he threw for 1,954-yards and 20 touchdowns, rushed for 743-yards, and 5 touchdowns.

“He works so hard and though he got hurt towards the end of the season, we look at that as a blessing because now he is 100%, he’s faster, bigger, stronger. It’s his team, it was his team last year too, he’s a great leader, probably the best leader I’ve ever had here at Las Cruces High. With you having your son here it’s good (referring to my son Kaden being with me) as time goes so quickly. He’s been out at the practices since he was two-years old and now he’s a senior, this is the last two-a-day Friday he’ll ever be out here, so I am cherishing it. We have a great relationship, he’s my best friend, and it’s going to be awesome to watch him this year,” said Miller about his son/quarterback.

The running back looks to be Sophomore Payton Ball at 5-foot-8, 159 pounds. Ball had a great showing at the combine running a 4.6 40-time, benching 185 pounds 9 times, and had a standing broad of 8-feet-11 inches. Also watch for junior to be Ryan Beltran at 5-foot-7 and 161 pounds who looked very good at practice on Friday. On the outside at receiver watch for guys like Brandon Baeza at 5-foot-6, 150, Sam Ellis at 6-foot-5, 185, and Andrew Chavez at 5-foot-11, 173. Baez is a gamer and started last year as a freshman for the Bulldawgs, Ellis is a great multi sport athlete who stepped in for Miller at quarterback late in the season. At tight end the Bulldawgs have a stud in Vincent Delgadillo at 6-foot-2, 100 pounds.

Up front on offense the Bulldawgs are anchored by offensive center Tristan Olson at 6-foot-2, 266 pounds who looks like one of the top linemen in the city. Also watch for Damian Aguirre at 5-foot-10, 196 pounds, Jeremy Chavez at 6-foot-0, 228 pounds, and David Andrade at 5-foot-10, 196 pounds.

On the defensive side of the football, Vincent Delgadillo will be a two-year starter at defensive end and should have a monster season. At the combine he benched 185 pounds 18 times and had a broad jump of 8-feet-3 inches. Dominik Frietze is a new name to watch at end, Jeremy Chavez and Tristan Olson will play both ways in situations, and their backers look solid with Cory Noel returning, who is a three year starter. Also at backer watch for Damian Aguirre, Jesus Vullegas at 183 pounds, and Julian Molina at 207 pounds. The secondary has a good amount of playmakers, Brandon Baeza, Payton Ball, Sam Ellis, Alex Hernandez, and Ryan Olson should all see playing time, it’s a good unit of athletes.

“Last year there were times where 4 freshman started for us because of so many injuries. These guys went through a lot of adversity last year and these guys improve a lot. We lost a lot of tight games to some good teams, and these kids understand we were right there. A lot of these kids are so much more advanced right now though we’re 5-days into practices we got 90-95 percent of our stuff in on both sides of the football already. We’re really happy with the progress these guys are making,” said Miller regarding returners and new names for the 2015 season.

Key Returners

Kameron Miller - Quarterback - 6-2, 183, Senior
Tristan Olson - Offensive Linemen - 6-2, 266, Junior
David Andrade - Offensive Linemen - 5-9, 196, junior
Brandon Baeza - Receiver - 5-6, 150, Sophomore
Jeremy Chavez - Defensive Linemen - 6-0, 228, Junior
Julian Molina - Linebacker - 5-8, 207, Senior
Vincent Delgadillo - Defensive Linemen - 6-1, 195, Senior
Sam Ellis - Receiver/Defensive Back - 6-5, 175
Corey Noel - Linebacker/Running Back - 5-11, 185

New Names To Know

Jesus Villegas - Linebacker - 5-7, 183, Sophomore
Payton Ball - Running Back - 5-8, 159, Sophomore
Richy Terrazas - Receiver - 5-6, 125, Junior
Damien Aguirre - Linebacker - 5-9, 198, Junior
Joseph Hernandez - Offensive Linemen - 5-9, 245, Junior
Andrew Chavez - Receiver - 5-11, 173, Junior
Ryan Beltran - Running Back - 5-7, 161, Junior

2015 Schedule

“We got state champ Rio Rancho, state champ Artesia, Centennial who could of won the state championship in 5A, you got Montwood who had a huge 7-on-7 season this summer, La Cueva is always good, Volcano Vista returns a lot of talent, but we are excited about it and you have to play a tough schedule to get you ready for the district season and for the playoffs,” commented Miller on the schedule.

Aug. 28 @ El Paso Montwood, 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 5 @ La Cueva, 1 p.m. (At Wilson Stadium) 1:00pm
Sept. 12 Volcano Vista, 1 p.m.
Sept. 18 Rio Rancho, 7 p.m.
Sept. 25 @ Centennial, 7 p.m.(At Field of Dreams)
Oct. 2 Artesia, 7 p.m.
* Oct. 9 @ Deming, 7 p.m.
* Oct. 15 Gadsden, 7 p.m.
BYE
* Oct. 30 @ Oñate, 7 p.m.
* Nov. 6 Mayfield, 7 p.m. (At Aggie Memorial Stadium)

The Past 9-seasons

2014 - 6-6 Quarterfinals
2013 - 12-1 State Champs
2012 - 12-1 State Champs
2011 - 8-3 Quarterfinals
2010 - 10-2 Semifinals
2009 - 7-4 Quarterfinals
2008 - 13-0 State Champs
2007 - 10-2 Semifinals
2006 - 3-7 did not make the playoffs

Our Take

The Bulldawg’s winning history speaks for itself. You really think this year’s Las Cruces team is going to take a dip with Miller’s son finally a senior? No way. Really the only concern would be that they don’t have a ton of size up front on both sides of the football. In years past when we’ve seen them run the table they have had some very dominate offensive and defensive linemen and while they do have some All-State caliber talent in the trenches, there is not of ton of depth in that department.

Their skill guys are very good and while some are still young, they’ve had experience which should translate well come Friday Nights. Kameron Miller propels this team, but it’s not a one-man show. He’s a leader, he’s clutch, but also had a good senior, junior, and sophomore class to depend on. The Dawgs have a right to have a chip on their shoulder entering the season. Lock and load, here comes the Las Cruces.

Mayfield once again is a State Title Contender
By: Kyle Henderson of NMPreps.com

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Overview

Knocking on the door of Coach Michael Bradley’s office you could tell he was tired. Likely hadn’t slept much in the last few days, he’s supposed to have surgery in a few days (non serious), his mother’s birthday is this weekend, he’s got a cold, he had been fighting off mosquito bites, and if any coach I spoke with during my prep football tour needed to be in the Bahamas sipping Mai Tai’s watching the surf roll in it was him. However, despite his weariness he kept it professional during the interview and of course while at practice. He spoke to his kids about leadership after their Friday practice.

He never once complained about his current state or showed self pity, because as he’s said many times to the Trojans, “Life is hard, but you move forward, you get tired, you move forward,” if you want your son to be a good man after he graduates high school, Bradley has got to be your selection because of attitude and poise and that sort of character spills onto the field of the athletes at Mayfield. The Trojan Program aka the Green Machine has won three state championships over the last 9-seasons, been state runner ups 4 times, been to the semifinals once, and been to the quarterfinals once, no other program in (6A) can say that. The Trojans have been to the state championship game two-years running, they lost both games by a total of 3 points, both special teams errors late in the game.

The 2014 Trojans although headlined by UTEP Quarterback Commit Kavika Johnson were a good mix of seniors and juniors, thus they return quite a bit of veteran players into the 2015 season. Can they really win more than 10 or 11 games again for a third year in a row? Likely, could this year’s team be better than last year’s? Likely. If you have never been to Mayfield and you just think they’ll full of high caliber athletes and it’s easy, you’re dead wrong. It starts when these kids enter 8th and 9th grande, being a Mayfield Trojan is a way of life that exists no where else in New Mexico.

What To Expect

“This is probably one of the best senior leadership groups that we have had and that is saying a lot. These kids, they’re just fantastic kids. They are hard workers, they are committed to what they do, and they get along with everybody. Leadership is a funny thing. Either you have it or you don’t. You can try to develop it and sometime that works, but these guys came into the program as born leaders and I think that starts with the parents. Sometimes you don’t get that nowadays, but these are great kids and I expect great things out of them this year,” Said Bradley on his seniors.

Taking over at quarterback for the Trojans will be Joeray Valencia at 5-foot-11 and 146 pounds. He’s got quite big shoes to fill replacing Kavika Johnson who scored 30 touchdowns in 2014, but Valencia has been playing behind Johnson for the last three seasons and knows the offense in and out. We’ve been impressed with him this summer and he has some very good targets and backs to get the football to. In the backfield is Isaac Vance at 5-foot-8 and 152 pounds who just picked up an offer from New Mexico State. Vance is only a junior, but accounted for close to 1,000-yards and scored over 15 touchdowns during his sophomore year on varsity last season. He has a great burst of speed, excellent hands, he’s a game breaker and Mayfield’s next big time offensive threat.

At the tight end position, the Trojans will look to 6-foot-2, 228 pound Noah Pierce who will be a two-year starter and a guy that is big, strong, and has good hands. He can block as well, but don’t be surprised if he scores or causes mismatches inside the red-zone. At the receiver position watch for 6-foot-3, 187 pound Gaven Swinson who is part of the Franzoy bloodline and every bit as good as his relatives to go through the Trojan program, he’ll impress you this year. Up front in the trenches for the Trojans will be Colton Evans who was named the 2015 NMPreps Combine Linemen MVP. At 6-foot-0 and 225 pounds Evans is technically sound and very aggressive and smart. Also watch for James Noe at 282 pounds and Jalen Guerrero at 6-foot-5, 282 pounds.

On defense the Trojans return quite a bit of starters, up front at defensive end watch for Noah Pierce at 228 pounds, their linebacking corps will be led by Louis Lombardi. Lombardi shined at the recent NMPreps Elite Combine and checks in at 5-foot-11 and 202 pounds. The City of Las Cruces has a ton of big time linebackers this year, Lombardi is at the top and had a monster junior year, expect him to be making plays all over the field in 2015. The Trojans secondary is loaded with talent: Watch for Riley Folkman at 5-foot-11, 163 pounds, very good in man coverage, Ethan Alvarado at 5-foot-11, 162 pounds, he’s a playmaker, and sophomore Chris Mar-Yuen who had a 10-feet-2 inch broad this summer, and looks like a dynamic play-maker to add to the secondary.

The Trojans also have a loaded coaching staff and according to Bradley it’s one of the best he’s ever had, “They really care about the kids and they know their trade and are excellent coaches of football. They are very great to work with and as a head coach you should not have tell coaches what to do all the time and they know their place and position and it’s a family.”

Key Returners

Isaac Vance - Running Back - 5-8, 152, Junior
Louie Lombardi - Linebacker - 5-11, 202, Senior
Riley Folkman - Defensive Back - 5-11, 163, Senior
Ethan Alvarado - Defensive Back - 5-11, 152, Senior
Colton Evans - Offensive Linemen - 6-0, 225, Senior
Noah Pierce - Tight End - 6-2, 228, Tight End, Senior

New Names To Know

Gaven Swinson - Receiver - 6-3, 187, Junior
Joray Valencia - Quarterback - 5-11, 146, Senior
Jalen Guerroro - Offensive Linemen - 6-5, 236, Junior
James Noe - Offensive Linemen - 6-1, 282, Senior
Chris Mar-Yuen - Defensive Back - 5-9, 145, Sophomore

2015 Schedule

“That is going to be a tough one in Hobbs. It’s a long drive, it’s going to be a hot night and we always tell our kids, we got a target on our backs and everyone knows that if they pull one out against Mayfield it’s going to be big. Hobbs always has the capability of doing that. We have El Paso Franklin and we’ve beat them two-years running and you know they are going to be hungry. Then we got Carlsbad, where my brother is now the head coach and you know they are going to be hungry, it don’t matter what type of team you have, our kids have got to step up every single week,” said Bradley regarding the 2015 schedule.

Aug. 28 @ Hobbs, 7 p.m.
Sept. 4 El Paso Franklin, 7 p.m.
Sept. 11 @ Carlsbad, 7 p.m.
Sept. 18 @ Alamogordo, 7 p.m.
Sept. 26 Eldorado, 1 p.m.
Oct. 2 @ Manzano, 7 p.m. (At Wilson Stadium)
* Oct. 8 Oñate, 7 p.m.
BYE
* Oct. 23 Deming, 7 p.m.
* Oct. 30 @ Gadsden, 7 p.m.
* Nov. 6 @ Las Cruces, 7 p.m. (At Aggie Memorial Stadium)
* District 3-6A

The Past 9-Seasons

2014 - 11-2 State Runner Up
2013 - 11-2 State Runner Up
2012 - 7-5 Quarterfinals
2011 - 10-3 State Runner Up
2010 - 9-4 State Champs
2009 - 11-2 State Runner Up
2008 - 9-3 Semifinals
2007 - 12-1 State Champs
2006 - 13-0 State Champs

Our Take

Look at what the Trojans have done over the last two seasons. They have a combined record of 22-4 and have reached the state title game in 2013 and in 2014. More and more we hear that the days of Las Cruces and Mayfield Football are going to dwindle because of Centennial High School opening, not the case at all. These two programs have a forever foundation, Mayfield Football is as rich as it’s ever been.

This year’s team is going to be very dangerous and while it’s going to be tough to lose an athlete like Kavika Johnson, the Trojans have replaced D-1 talent before and won without D-1 talent before. After a few games this Mayfield Trojan roster is going to be very comparable to the last few years at Mayfield and they’ll be very good again next year and the year after that. There is a reason Mayfield has a continued target on their back, it’s the model program that everyone wants to be, but few can put into the effort or dedication it takes to get on their level. Green Machine is polished and ready for another state title run.

Andrew Rodriguez, assistant to Casey Crandall and Boy's Varsity Basketball Coach in 2014 is the new Head Coach of the Hagerman Bobcats.

With 16 returning starters, Alamogordo has high expectations in 2015
By: Kyle Henderson of NMpreps.com

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Overview

The last time I visited Alamogordo was just before the 2013 season when Dale Hooper had first taken over as Head Coach replacing Tommy Standefer. How much the program has developed since that time, I was thinking if 2013 Alamogordo Team that finished 1-9 on the season was to play this incoming 2015 Alamogordo team the score would probably be 50-0 by half-time. Part of that thought is because Alamogordo just has a solid senior class with many returning already two-year lettermen. Last year the Tigers took baby steps forward starting the year off 5-1 before going 0-3 in district play losing their last 4-games of the season.

What To Expect In 2015

Once again the Tigers return the most returning starters out of any district team with 16. They return 10 on offense and 6 on defense. That experience has provided high expectations around the Alamogordo community, the Tigers now have a new turf stadium which is beautiful and brand new weight room up there with Hobbs’ weight room (yes it’s that nice).

“It’s taken a while to get these kids into our weight program, I think that is a huge part and most of these kids started for me my first year here and they played a pretty tough schedule and now as incoming seniors they have a lot of game experience. We also have not changed is how we run the offense and defense, that hasn’t changed in three-years so these kids know everything on both sides of the football,” said Head Alamogordo Football Coach Dale Hooper who is 6-14 in two-years at Alamogordo.

The Tigers have had a stellar summer season and return a ton of top level skill position players. Hooper’s Son Kyle is a 6-foot-3, 175 pound Junior Quarterback that threw for 2,065-yards and 31 touchdowns breaking 6 school records last year as just a sophomore.

His primary targets include Julian Segura a 6-foot-3, 195 pound next level prospect that has impressed time and time again this summer. Besides running crisp routes he’s got the best hands in New Mexico and is super physical at nearly 200 pounds. Junior to be Alex Ramirez at 5-foot-10, 185 pounds really impressed us yesterday and is a shifty receiver with excellent hands.

Also watch for Carlton Bartley at 6-foot-3 and 175 pounds who will be split wide. In the backfield is 5-foot-11, 200 pound Hunter Graham who is who has speed, power, great side to side ability, and good football instincts. Consider Graham a home-run hitter if you will. Also in the backfield is Carlos Hicks who is a speed type back at 5-foot-6 and 160 pounds. Up front Nathan Martin returns at 6-foot-2, 235 pounds, Nathan Nowell is 6-foot-0, 225 pounds, Herbert Huffman is 6-foot-2, 255 pounds, Nathan Reuss returns up front, and Santiago Trujillo returns at 220 pounds.

On the defensive side of the football Alamogordo returns 6 with Nathan Silva leading the linebacker corps. At just 5-foot-5 and 165 pounds Silva has a nose for the football we’re told and loves to get after it. Marcello Barrientoz will be moved from offense to defense where he’ll serve as a very good defensive back along with Brandon Henderson, that’s a very good duo in the secondary. A new name that also impressed us was Jacob Gerber who looked tough as nails and also made quite a few plays on the field on Wednesday. Isaiah Saldana will be a three-year starter and can play pretty much anything: QB, WR, TE, but this year he’ll be their outside backer and he’s just a play-maker, one of their top overall athletes. Up front the Tigers are anchored by nose: Peter Sanders who equates nearly 500 pounds.

16 Returning Starters

Alex Ramirez - receiver - junior
Brandon Henderson - Defensive Back - Senior
Brandon Henderson - receiver/linebacker - senior - big year
Carlos Hicks - Defensive Backs/Running Back - Senior
Dewy huffman - left tackle - Junior
Hunter Graham - Running Back - Senior
Isiash Saldana - Outside linebacker - Senior
Julian Segura - receiver - Senior -
Kyle Hopper - Quarterback - Junior
Marcello Barrientoz - Defensive Back - Senior
Nathaniel Martin - Right Tackle - Senior
Nathaniel noel - Guard - Senior
Nathaniel Reuss - Offensive Line - Senior
Nathan Silva - MLB - Senior
Peter Sanders - Nose - Senior
Santiago Trujillo - Center - Junior

2015 Football Schedule

“Our first game is against Valencia and we don’t know too much about them being they have a new coach and likely a new scheme, have not seen them at any tournaments, or anything like that. Our community is excited about opening night and we’re looking forward to that one. We have Los Lunas over there and I think Los Lunas is going to be a much improved team, they got a heck of a good running back, coaching staff, and return a good quarterback, I am expecting big things about of Los Lunas and overall we are not going to take any teams lightly. We got Highland and Mayfield here which is a huge game, Gadsden, Deming, and then it’s district, just a tough end of the year schedule. We battled with Hobbs this summer in 7-On’s, Clovis is just Clovis always good, and now Bradley at Carlsbad is going to bring a new scheme,” Said Hooper.

8-28 - Valencia
9/4 - @ Los Lunas
9/11 - @ Highland
9/18 - Mayfield
9/25 @ Gadsden
10-2 Deming
10/9 @ Artesia
10/23 Carlsbad
10/30 Clovis
11/6 @ Hobbs

Senior Quote

We caught up with 6-foot-3, 195 pound Julian Segura on Wednesday to get his thoughts on what it’s like to represent the Alamogordo Tigers. “I love being a Tiger and every night strapping it up for the Tiger’s it’s a blessing. The school pride towards our program has picked up after last year and there are a lot of people excited about this year and I can’t wait to see our stadium packed on Friday Nights,” said Segura.

Our Take

They have come a long way since 2013 and this is without question going to be the best Alamogordo has been in several seasons. They are loaded with skill position players, playmakers, and while it’s tough to get a gage at the defense early on, Alamogordo is going to win some ball games and play teams they lost to last year down the wire or even win those games in 2015. Likely a playoff team and its going to be disappointing to this bunch if they don’t make the final round of 12 because of the talent level and the level of overall experience. Head Coach Dale Hooper has brought some great add ons to Alamogordo and the community is right to have high expectations going in. It’s going to be quite a ride for the Tigers in 2015, consider us on the bandwagon.

FEATURES: Stories for the Week of Aug. 3rd
Don't miss any of the action as plenty of features are being released daily.

Henderson's Two-A-Day Tour (Link)

Monday, August 3rd

• Football: Clovis Wildcats Team Preview (Hendo)
• Football: Artesia Bulldogs Team Preview (Hendo)
• Volleyball: 2015 NMPreps.com's 6A Preseason Rankings (Grine)

Tuesday, August 4th

• Football: Hobbs Eagles Team Preview (Hendo)
• Football: Goddard Rockets Team Preview (Hendo)
• Volleyball: District 1-6A Preseason Preview (Grine)

Wednesday, August 5th

• Football: Carlsbad Team Preview (Hendo)
• Football: Alamogordo Team Preview (Hendo)
• Football: District 1-6A Best and Worst Case Scenarios for 2015 (Grine)

Thursday, August 6th

• Football: Onate Team Preview (Hendo)
• Volleyball: District 2-6A Preview (Grine)

Friday, August 7th

• Football: Las Cruces Team Preview (Hendo)
• Football: Mayfield Team Preview (Hendo)
• Football: Centennial Team Preview (Hendo)
• Volleyball: District 3-6A Preview (Grine)
• Volleyball: Top Players in 6A Volleyball (Grine)

Saturday, August 8th

• Volleball: District 4-6A Preview (Grine)

Hot Topics: Message Boards Favs

• Football: Worst Memories with Poll
• Football: Scrimmages
• Basketball: Give Your Prediction
• Basketball: Alamogordo Names New Basketball Coach
• Girls Basketball: Top Returning 3-Pointer Shooters
• Girls Basketball: 75 Players to watch

District 1-6A Best and Worst Case Scenarios for 2015
Joshua J. Grine - August 5th, 2015

Best and worst case is just a look at the schedule for teams heading into next season. Another feature to give you things to debate, it's okay to voice your own best and worst case scenario. Good morning y'all!

SANTA FE DEMONS

Best Case
Looking at the best case scenario right now for the Demons, yes we put a more on the favorable side of the team we are loping at, we could see the Demons going 6-4. Looking at their schedule they could be favorites in four games (Los Alamos, Grants, Capital and Gallup). Some of those could still be BIG maybes. The two we gave them as upset wins are Deming and Cibola. The duo of Adrian Blea (QB) and Bailey Cabbage (TE) are the reason we say best case scenario.
Record: (6-4. 1-3). One win in District with a possible upset of Cibola and Demons could be a 12-seed in the state tournament.

Worst Case
The defense struggles again with blowout losses and they could fall to another 3 or 4 win season missing out on the playoffs. The went 4-6 last season and wins from last season (four above) could provide some battle especially in Grants and Capital who will be improved.
Record: (2-8, 0-4) - Miss the playoffs.

CIBOLA COUGARS

Best Case
The Cougars are ranked 17th (NMPreps.com Top 100) in the state to open the season and looking to improve on a successful (6-5) season. Best case scenario we could see a 6/7 wins to improve on last season. That might be far fetched but they will be favorites in or around 3/4 games and coin flips on another two. IF they "upset" one or two teams in District and beat Santa Fe High - 6/7 games. Only counted 9-games on their schedule so.
Record: (6-3, 2-2). They could be another "dark horse" come late in the season and Coach Williams has developed his program. Maybe another playoff win.

Worst Case
They lost three close games, one in the playoffs, and this team could have been a two loss team in 2014. Say they lose those close games and maybe lose some of their favorite games this could be a rebuilding type of season. Manzano, Volcano Vista (W-2014), Valley (W-2014), and even Albuquerque High (W-2014) could become games that get away from them.
Record: (3-6, 1-4) - Miss the playoffs.

VOLCANO VISTA HAWKS

Best Case
The Hawks are ranked 10th (NMPreps.com Top 100) in the state to open the season. This could be the "boom or bust" type of season for the Hawks. They went 3-7 last season and struggled in losses but also had a close game against Las Cruces that seemed to be a good performance but faltered. Best case this team could win games that they dropped from a year ago and go say 6 or 7 wins. Need games against Manzano, Atrisco, West Mesa and maybe Eldorado. Then reel off two wins in District.
Record: (7-3, 2-2). Make the playoffs and could be a one win team.

Worst Case
Sandia (w-2014) is better, and that one win could be a difference maker to look similar to last seasons 3-7 finish. They need to put more points on the board this season. They schrod 8 points to end the season in the final three games.
Record: (2-8, 1-3) - Miss the playoffs.

RIO RANCHO RAMS

Best Case
The Rams are one of my favorite teams to watch and this program doesn't skip a beat. They stay hungry and best case they could be a 8 or 9 win team this season. It's without question that this team could repeat, doesn't happen often I know, but this team/program returns quality players to replace those studs that have graduated.
Record: (8-2, 3-1). Could play for the State Championship again.

Worst Case
This is no way the team from a year ago as far as key players and that stud QB and might be the reason they take a small step back. They some what squeaked out games in scoring battles late in the season and with a new QB it could be a late game fall in close matches. Worst case 5 or 6 win season and yes that's not "bad" but it is a step back.
Record: (5-5, 2-2). Make the Playoffs.

CLEVELAND STORM

Best Case
They enter the season as the number one team in New Mexico led with a wealth of talent. 7-4 last season was still a great season and this could be the team that reaches the title game. They have all the makings of a team that could repeat 2011 and be perfect when all is said and done in December.
Record: (10-0, 4-0). State Champs.

Worst Case
The expectations are high and for young men sometimes it's difficult to bring it every night. Worst case scenario I could see this team dropping only a game or two, maybe three on the year. That's not saying "worst" but in this scenario this team is extremely talented and well coached. It's hard not to like what they bring. They had a two point loss, a one point loss and then had to do a difficult thing and try to beat a District foe in the playoffs. One's to watch out for are Clovis, Rio Rancho and Onate (along with Del Valle (TX) who they lost to a year ago.
Record: (7-3, 3-1). Make the Playoffs.

#1. CARLSBAD CAVEMEN (6-15, 3-3)
Last Season District Finish: 3rd Place
Quick Hit: It's hard to make the argument that Carlsbad is the favorite to win this District after only winning six games a season back. The add to that they graduate six players from that team and one of the better players for the 2014 team. Well, what we like about this team is the trio returning in Caitlin Carrasco (2016), Gabi Wilson (2016) and a stud freshman (sophomore to be) from last season Rebecca Morrison (2018). The next thing is, not much is known about this district, could be a down year or have that surprise team.

The biggest question regarding the Cavemen: Are their returners better than others in this down district?



#2. ALAMOGORDO TIGERS (6-12, 3-3)
Last Season District Finish: 2nd Place
Quick Hit: Again, we try to make the case for a six win team to be in consideration for a District title. Well, last season the Tigers did tie with the Cavemen for the runner-up spot and I can honestly say that maybe the Tigers should be the favorite to open the season. They graduate two players from last years squad and welcome back a well of talent. Also, there might be a new head coach in black and gold its uncertain how a team responds. This could be the clear favorite and out of a one bid league they could get it. The three that return for the Tigers is six-foot Sierra Gentry (2016), Rebecca Sparks (2016), and Krysten Archuleta (2016).

The biggest question regarding the Tigers: Are the going to be the real deal or play below the expectation?



#3. CLOVIS WILDCATS (11-11, 6-0)
Last Season District Finish: 1st Place
Quick Hit: The Wildcats are the reigning champs but graduate nine players from the 11-11 team. It will be difficult to replace that much talent in back to back years. This years Wildcats return outside hitter, a 2018 stud in Makinzie Johnson. She will likely be the name to know and carry the load as a young sophomore. Chesney Carter (2016) will bring the senior leadership for this team and they do welcome back several seniors-to-be, so could be a bit of a unknown start.

The biggest question regarding the Clovis: On the shoulders of a sophomore can the Clovis Wildcats sustain as the team to beat in this District?



#4. HOBBS EAGLES (4-17, 0-6)
Last Season District Finish: 4th Place
Quick Hit: The Eagles will look to shake off a four win season by handing over the reigns to what was already a young team last season. Nine sophomores was the story for the Eagles last season, well those 2017 prospects are coming into the year ready to make a name in the Southeast. As bulletin board material the Eagles have to be thinking a 4th place prediction and preseason ranking (#20) are a slap in the face to a talented team. Essence McGaha (2017) and Hannah Strickland (2017) take over as the go-to players that look to lead the Eagles to a special season .

The biggest question regarding the Hobbs: Is this a 15-win team and the "should-be" opening favorites? Do they have the most talent or are they a year away?


2015 4-6A PRESEASON ALL-DISTRICT TEAM
Caitlin Carrasco (2016), Carlsbad *Player of the Year Candidate
Sierra Gentry (2016), Alamogordo * Player of the Year Candidate
Essence McGaha (2017), Hobbs * Player of the Year Candidate
Makinzie Johnson (2018), Clovis * Player of the Year Candidate
Gabi Wilson (2016), Carlsbad
Rebecca Morrison (2016), Carlsbad
Krysten Archuleta (2016), Alamogordo
Rebecca Sparks (2016), Alamogordo
Chesney Carter (2016), Clovis
Hannah Strickland (2017), Hobbs



More Stories:

• 2015 Volleyball Preseason Headquarters (Previews, Rankings, Etc)

General thoughts on the playoff rule? Also, I believe the NMAA is only counting games for who vs. who that were semifinal or championship games. Better, but still not the best way imo. Higher seeds should host period.

#1. ONATE KNIGHTS (17-7, 5-3)
Last Season District Finish: 2nd Place
Quick Hit: The Knights had a successful run last season and this season could go either way for this team. They graduate seven players off the 17-7 team that finished second in District 3-5A. The Knights also made the State Tournament winning in the first round before falling in the second round to eventual state champion Cibola High School. The exciting part is the Knights return four stud players who gained huge experience last season. Sidney Aguilera (2016) and Alexis Benda (2017) are two names to watch for in the Las Cruces area. Brandy Hernandez (2016) and Isabelle Silva (2017) create a four some that will have the Knights hunting for a District and State championship.

The biggest question regarding the Knights: They graduated a lot of players, can the youth lead them to the next level of this developing program?



#2. LAS CRUCES BULLDAWGS (12-11, 4-4)
Last Season District Finish: 3rd Place
Quick Hit: The Lady Bulldawgs come into the 2015 season looking to make believers as they are preseason ranked #7 in the state. A state tournament bid in 2014 and third place finish for the Bulldawgs was only the start to what could be an impressive run this year. Jeri Alaniza (2016) and Amber Saiz (2017) lead a team that returns nine players from last seasons 'young' team.

The biggest question regarding the Bulldawgs: Could this be one of the deepest teams south of 1-25?



#3. MAYFIELD TROJANS (9-14, 3-5)
Last Season District Finish: 4th Place
Quick Hit: Another team deep team in terms of returning players after only graduating three players on a rebuilding type of season in 2014. After going under .500 and missing the playoffs in 2014 the Trojans are looking as using that season as an experience type of season. The 2015 Trojans have the makings of special team and three way battle for the District title and looking to challenge the talent in the North. Kameryn Baker (2016) and Samantha Tuton (2016) are two seniors that lead the team that returns 10 players, which will have 7 that are from the class of 2016.

The biggest question regarding the Trojans: Could they have the best duo in the District and two years under .500 could they finally make the leap?



#4. GADSDEN PANTHERS (18-5, 8-0)
Last Season District Finish: 1st Place
Quick Hit: The Panthers enter year four of the Jaramillo tenure after taking over the program from Al Rosen who lead the Panthers to the 2011 State Title. The Panthers have not 20-games since that 2011 season but 49-20 in her tenure and winning the District last season. Bad news for this squad is they graduate eight players from last years team. Briana Bustillos (2016) is the bright side for the Panthers with plenty of experience but she might have to carry the load for a majority of the 2015 campaign.

The biggest question regarding the Panthers: The Panthers are in for a transition year, can they sustain the success or will this be a down year?



#5. DEMING WILDCATS (4-17, 0-8)
Last Season District Finish: 5th Place
Quick Hit: The Deming Wildcats have seen better days and enter year two in class 6A after moving up a classification. The Wildcats return eight players and look to bring more of a challenge to the other teams in the District. Amanda Borden (2016) and Miquela Jurado (2016) are the talent returning to the Wildcats and hope to lead what will be a senior heavy team. Borden was on the varsity team as a junior and freshman, hoping to make the most of her senior season.

The biggest question regarding the Wildcats: Can they finally make a run led by several players who have two/three years of experience?


2015 3-6A PRESEASON ALL-DISTRICT TEAM
Sidney Aguila (2016), Onate * Player of the Year Candidate
Jeri Alaniza (2016), Las Cruces * Player of the Year Candidate
Kameryn Baker (2016), Mayfield * Player of the Year Candidate
Briana Bustillos (2016), Gadsden * Player of the Year Candidate
Alexis Benda (2017), Onate
Brandy Hernandez (2016), Onate
Isabelle Silva (2017), Onate
Amber Saiz (2017), Las Cruces
Samantha Tuton (2016), Mayfield
Amanda Borden (2016), Deming
Miquela Jurado (2016), Deming



More Stories:

• 2015 Volleyball Preseason Headquarters (Previews, Rankings, Etc)

How would you rank the 6A divisions in strength, top to bottom? And, as an alum of a certain NE heights school, do any of the Albuquerque schools have more than an 'any given Sunday' chance at taking the 6A Blue Trophy this year?

Here is look at the top Class of 2017 (and some Class of 2018) prospects in New Mexico.

Class of 2017 Top Prospects (6A Added)

If you see that an athlete is missing form our top prospect list, e-mail us at nmpreps@yahoo.com


Adrianna Joyner - Alamogordo
Alexis Chavez - Hobbs
Alicia Chavez - Valley
Amaya Brown - Cibola *Freshman
Bailee Bolen - Rio Rancho
Brianna Rudolph - Eldorado
Cara Liggins - Sandia
Cindy Nevarez - Hobbs
Coryn Cunningham - Cibola
Delaney Markham - La Cueva
Elena Gonzales - Santa Fe
Jaci Sievers - Clovis
Jaelyn Foster - Sandia
Jayce Gorzeman - Mayfield
Jayden Perez - Las Cruces *Freshman
Kavionna Brown - Cibola
Kayla McGuire - Volcano Vista
Kim Best - Carlsbad
Kishina Smith - Gadsden
Lauren Wade - Carlsbad
Liliana Tafoya - Valley
Melissa Mancha - Volcano Vista
Monay Phillips - Clovis
Payton O'Brain - Hobbs
Priscella Orona - Hobbs
Rhiana Quinones - Mayfield
Sarah Abney - Las Cruces *Freshman
Shantelle Allen - Rio Rancho
Shelby Bloom - Eldorado
Stacy Johnson - Volcano Vista
Sydney Candaleria - Eldorado
Tamara Morris - Cibola
Teya Morris - Clovis *Freshman

Tori Stucker - Albuquerque

5A, 4A, 3A, 2A, and 1A lists coming soon. [/B]


This post was edited on 4/1 8:25 AM by Kyle H

DISTRICT 1-6A: DANGEROUS BATTLE

Overall, this district is one of the toughest in terms of strength of talented teams headed into the the 2015 season. They have some serious talent and four, maybe 5, could be dancing come State Tournament time. Looking at this District you could make the argument that the top four could be favorites to win the state title or even all four being in the final four.

The biggest question regarding District 1-6A: Could all four teams play for the Final Four this state tournament? Reminder 3 played for the semi-final last season.



#1. CIBOLA COUARS (14-12, 4-4)
Last Season District Finish: 3RD PLACE
Quick Hit: The Cibola Cougars come into the season preseason ranked #1 in the state after winning the state title a year ago, but the interest note is that the Cougars actually finished third in District last season. Hannah Thompson, the junior to be is the clear name to know as mentioned Monday in the preseason team rankings but will need a consistent year with the pressure to live up to the state title of a year ago.

The biggest question regarding the Cougars: The Cougars did have a great state tournament winning three games to claim the title but can they sustain this for another year or was the glass sleeper of a "cinderella" year one size to small?


#2. VOLCANO VISTA HAWKS (8-14, 2-6)
Last Season District Finish: 4TH PLACE
Quick Hit: The Hawks pulled off a round one victory in last seasons state tournament before falling to Cleveland in five sets. Well, the Hawks return a trio that has experience from last season and could be a team to reckon with in 2015. They came in ranked 4th in the preseason rankings led behind, Lyric Ellison, Jordan Breding and Jaelyn Guajado.

The biggest question regarding the Hawks: Are the Hawks getting to much attention for being a team that only won 8 games last season?


#3. CLEVELAND STORM (19-4, 9-0)
Last Season District Finish: 1ST PLACE
Quick Hit: The Cleveland Storm are actually the District champs before falling to cross-town rival Rio Rancho in the semi-final game of the state tournament last season. The Storm graduate plenty off an impressive few runs that have resulted in a state title in 2012, a runner-up in 2013 and final four last season. Ariel Geruntho, will look to led the team this year as a senior on a rather unknown team.

The biggest question regarding the Storm: Are the Storm lacking the respect that they deserve going 9-0 in District or is this going to be a season to rebuild?


#4. RIO RANCHO RAMS (15-10, 6-3)
Last Season District Finish: 2nd PLACE
Quick Hit: Rio Rancho is sort of a "dark horse" team much like the Storm as they graduate 6-players from last season but don't forget this team was the District Runner-Up along with the State Tournament Runner-Up team. They also have one of the top coaches in the State of New Mexico in Toby Manzanares. They will try and fill the void with sophomores (juniors to be) that filled out the roster last season. We honestly feel this team could be a favorite led behind two three year lettermen in Nikki Carr and Kylee Rudolph.

The biggest question regarding the Rams: The Rams lost ten games last season but three were to Texas teams and the other 7 came against the Cibola Cougars or Cleveland Storm. Are we over-looking a team that could seems to always be among the top?


#5. SANTA FE DEMONS (9-12, 0-8)
Last Season District Finish: 5th PLACE
Quick Hit: The Demons again have to battle in one of the toughest (or thee toughest) district in the state of New Mexico. They started the season 8-0 last season before finishing 1-12 on the year with a majority of their losses at the hands of their own District. The transition to 6A doesn't get any easier for the Demons graduating six players but they have a few underclassmen from a year ago that could surprise people. Sophomore to be Brandee Fulgenzi is a name to know for the Demons as she had an impress end to the season.

The biggest question regarding the Demons: The Demons went 2-27 in sets through the district run last season, can they upset one team and make the state tournament? The District strength helps and one win could give them an at-large bid.


DISTRICT 1-6A PRESEASON ALL-DISTRICT TEAM
Hannah Thompson, Cibola *Player of the Year Candidate
Jordan Breding, Volcano Vista *Player of the Year Candidate
Destyni Brooks, Cibola
Aleah Martinez, Cibola
Lyric Ellison, Volcano Vista
Jaelyn Guajado, Volcano Vista
Kylee Rudolph, Rio Rancho
Nikki Carr, Rio Rancho
Ariel Geruntho, Cleveland
Brandee Fulgenzi, Santa Fe
Isabella Christian-Padilla, Santa Fe


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Some of the most incredible men of the gridiron, such as current Falcon's wide receiver Roddy White (2x South Carolina State Champ), former Raven's linebacker Ray Lewis (Florida State Champ) and former NFL fullback Lorenzo Neal (NCAA All-American), used to mix it up on the mat before playing in front of thousands on Sunday's.

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Wrestling in high school made me a much better football player. Learning leverage and how to use it.
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