A lot can change in a year.
“We were not able to do any 7v7 tournaments last year.” Coach Lofthouse said. “Heck, I remember still interviewing and hiring coaches this time last year. Passing tournaments were the furthest thing from my mind last summer.”
If competing in summer passing league is any indication of progress… the Sailors are making it. Newport Harbor was one of 24 teams invited by host Sunny Hills High School to play in their annual 7v7 tournament. Teams invited were from Division 5 through Division 13. Duarte high school was the only school not from Orange County.
The Sailors lost their opening game vs Sunny Hills (24-30) in overtime after jumping out to a three score lead. Coach Lofthouse said, “We took our foot off the gas pedal and made some costly errors.” The Sailors re-grouped and won the next two games vs. La Quinta (27-0) and then vs. El Modena (27-9) making them 2-1 in pool-play. Good enough to advance as the #10 seed in the single elimination bracket.
The Sailors got on a roll and were victorious against Cypress, Troy, and Foothill. Newport ended up losing to Orange in a hard-fought championship game. After the game, Coach Lofthouse said, “I’m very proud of the way our boys competed today. We have come a long way in a year and the future is bright.”
The Sailors were 5-2 on the day.
(L) Newport (24) vs. Sunny Hills (30)
(W) Newport (27) vs. La Quinta (0)
(W) Newport (27) vs. El Modena (9)
(W) Newport (21) vs. Cypress (6)
(W) Newport (27) vs. Troy (0)
(W) Newport (21) vs. Foothill (15)
(L) Newport (9) vs. Orange (24)
Quarterbacks Cole Lavin (Jr) and Nicholas Kim (So) took equal amounts of snaps for the Sailors. Both demonstrated capability to run the offense. Coach Lofthouse mentioned that both players displayed accuracy, quick decision-making, and leadership. Also, AJ Moore (So) received reps at QB and showed the ability to move the offense effectively.
Mason Walker (Sr) and Jake Keliikoa (Sr) were the primary targets for Lavin and Kim. Both were leaders in receptions and touchdowns. James Crowell (Jr) and Duke Starnes (So) stepped up big in the absence of 1st Team all Sunset League Aidan Goltz (Sr). Both showed they are players to keep an eye on this season. Mr. Consistent Justin McCoy (Jr) made valuable contributions from the running back spot in the pass game as well as Nate Peters (So) exhibited tremendous athleticism at the Tight End and Wide Receiver position. Finally, Rouke McCarthy (So) made some really nice catches on offense throughout the day and should be exciting player to watch develop.
Defensively, All Sunset League Linebackers Johnny Brigandi (Sr) and Chad Koste (Sr) were outstanding all day. Both players were instrumental in re-routing receivers, breaking up passes, and creating interceptions. In addition, newcomer Erik Hehl (Jr) was very active at the Mike Linebacker spot. Austin Muro (Sr), Mason DePoy (Jr), and Kaden Stowell (Jr) had the most reps in the secondary. All three contributed heavily to the Sailors great performance at the tournament. Marcus Rock (Jr) made some big plays, including two interceptions. Newcomer Tyler Freund (Sr) who came over from lacrosse looked very physical and athletic as well. Lastly, Hayden Fry (So), Evan Langston (Jr), and Spencer O’Bryan (Jr) maximized reps and showed potential for this upcoming season.
OC Register covered this event:
