The inaugural Milk Bowl at Long Beach Poly last weekend was a big success, with six of the seven Moore League teams getting together to do 7-on-7 passing, linemen competition, and skill work. All six coaches said they were happy to see the tradition come back to the city, and Poly coach Stephen Barbee said the Jackrabbits are already planning on hosting next year, with plans to make it a better spectator event as well.
“I’m very happy with how it went,” said Barbee. “It’s great to get to see the Long Beach kids come together for a great day of football. It’s awesome to compete with and work with each other. We can’t wait for next year.”
Long Beach Poly
The Jackrabbits are going to be young this year, with a slew of sophomores and juniors set to take the reigns of the city’s oldest program. There is a ton of talent among those ranks, however, and Poly showed off some of their rising stars on Saturday.
Sophomore quarterback Shea Kuykendall showed an ability to be crisp and accurate on short routes, while receiver/backup QB Keyontae Lanier looks poised for a huge breakout season. Lanier was the most athletic receiver at the event, and also won the long ball toss with a throw of 70 yards. One unit that will boast experience for Poly is the line, where senior James “Chubba” Maae looks like a rising star. Maae has picked up several Division 1 scholarship offers lately and showed why during the 1v1 line workouts, where he was able to handle himself admirably.
Wilson
Wilson will be the Moore League’s most experienced team next year, with almost their entire starting offense and defense returning. The Bruins showcased their experience Saturday, especially along their lines, as the offensive/defensive line workout between Wilson and Poly was the highlight of the day from a competition standpoint.
“This was a great event, there was a lot of good camaraderie today, a great community feel,” said Wilson coach Mark Ziegenhagen. “This is the end of spring so our guys are winding down–we’ve got our Spring Game on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. and then we take our break.”
Wilson quarterback Ryan Pettway was without a few of his top weapons due to injury, but had some nice connections with Clint Stephens, a young Bruin who looked good on both sides of the ball Saturday. Senior lineman Jakob Belton will be the league’s biggest lineman coming into the year, at 6’7” and 300 pounds–Belton was a force in the linemen competitions.
Lakewood
First-year Lakewood coach Scott Meyer is a Moore League legacy, having been an assistant at Wilson and the head coach at Jordan. Meyer was also happy to see all the local schools come together and saw some young and returning Lancers looking good on Saturday.
Returning quarterback Gevani McCoy made some good throws, and senior linebacker/receiver Ray Masoe looks like a Division 1 prospect. Other standouts included speedy James Voorhies, AJ Alvarez, and Ernie Cartagena.
Jordan
The biggest buzz around the field on Saturday was about a pair of future stars for Jordan, as Anthony Scott and Jeremy McGurn were among the biggest, most physical players on the field. Scott, who is picking up mid-major recruiting action, played at quarterback, corner, and safety, and looked good in all roles. McGurn will be a tight end/defensive end combo for the Panthers and also has great size and hands. A young skill guy that coach Tim Wedlow is hoping will take some pressure off of Scott is Jaylon Morgan, a receiver/safety who could end up under center as well this year.
“I’m really happy with how we played,” said Wedlow. “And I’m happy for our guys getting some attention–hard work pays off. We’ve been hearing everyone asking about these guys all day.”
Cabrillo
Cabrillo coach Mike Ulufale has to replace some veteran leadership from last year’s team, but got a good look at his up-and-comers on Saturday. Receiver/DB Roger McMillan looks like the Jaguars’ go-to-guy, with running back Jonathan Gonzales and linebacker Edgar Haro also making plays. In the line competition, Jose Lopez and Derek Reyes were the standouts for the Jags.
Compton
Compton didn’t bring their skill guys for the 7-on-7 portion of the activities, but their hopes will hinge on their line play in any event, and the Tarbabes had a big and talented group. The standouts were Syre and Alonzo Williams.
“We’re pleased, there was some great competitive atmosphere out here, it was off the charters,” said Compton coach Calvin Bryant. “This brings a real bond to the league, I’m glad we’re out here and I’m glad they’re doing it again next year.”
