Turlock Christian Schools

Head Coach: Rusty Lyon, 4th year 2007: 10-1 overall, 5-0 SL Key Returners: Matt Moreda, Daniel Wright, Alex Holman, Kevin Kelly, Kyle Horjus, Oliver Greenbarg; Key Losses: Eli Davis, Trevor Brown, Axel Morelli, Kameron Holguin, Brad Abraham, Ben Larson, Jordan Buchanan, Jonny Humphres Key Newcomers: Cody Alldrin, Robbie Smallwood, Austin Morelli, Geoffrey Retemeyer, Nikko Jennings

2008-09 Outlook: Turlock Christian High's varsity football club will certainly have the proverbial 'target on their back' this 2008-09 football season. After a miracle-like 10-0 run last year, every ball club in the Southern League will be looking to knock off the '07-08 defending champions. Mariposa and Waterford are favored in the pre-season so far, based on the players they have returning. LeGrand, according to the club's fourth-year coach Rusty Lyon, could also be a three in the conference. TC had two quarterbacks battling for the starting job, and the likely starter could very well be Cody Alldrin, a lefty who is quite the athlete. Robbie Smallwood was the MVP at the JV level last season, and he is expected to contribute this year at th next level. Austin Morelli, along with Geoffrey Retemeyer could be two more weapons in TC's lineup. Matt Moreda is a key returner, and he will play the tight end slot and the offensive line. Moreda is a 6', 3" 190 pounder. TC will be extremely young this year, but after a year ike the last, the Eagles have to believe that anything is possible

The Modesto Bee, September 10, 2008

• Last season: 10-1, lost in second round of playoffs. SL: 5-0, league champion.

• Coach: Rusty Lyon, fourth year (21-11)

• Top returners: TE/DL Matt Moreda (6-2, 180); OL/DL Daniel Wright (6-0, 225); WR/LB Oliver Greenbarg (6-2, 180); QB/WR Cody Alldrin (Jr., 6-2, 180); QB/RB Robbie Smallwood (Jr., 6-1, 185).

• Key newcomers: OL/DL John Kim (Jr., 6-0, 175); WR/DB James Riley (Soph., 6-0, 175); OL/DL Morgan McIntyre (Jr., 6-0, 225).

• Season outlook: The Eagles had a dream season last year, going 10-0 before losing in the second round of the Division VI section playoffs. Eight players from that 20-player roster return, and they are boosted by an athletic group of incoming juniors. While last year's team counted on superior athlete Eli Davis to make plays, this year's team is looking like it will be run-oriented behind its experienced offensive line. Wright, an all-SL selection last year, leads that line.

• Worth Noting: Lots of new players in key spots this year. And who's going to be the quarterback? Alldrin and Smallwood could be sharing time behind center. … Moreda is the top receiver. He has great speed and good hands.

JV FOOTBALL TEAM

Turlock Christian 26, North Hills 14

The Modesto Bee, September 13, 2008

At Turlock — Robbie Smallwood completed 12 of 23 passes for 149 yards and two TDs, both of them to Cody Alldrin, to lift the Eagles to the win. Alldrin, who had scoring catches of 47 and 8 yards, finished with eight catches for 119 yards.

Turlock Christian Football

JOHN_JOEL GRIFFITHS, The Turlock Journal, September 12, 2008

Turlock Christian's varsity football squad opened up the 2008 season on the right foot Friday evening in Waterford. The defending Southern League champs knocked off North Hills Christian 26-14, and were led by Robbie Smallwood and Cody Alldrin. Smallwood and Alldrin hooked up for a 47-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter that gave the Eagles momentum going into the break. Smallwood found Alldrin for a nine-yard toss again in the third quarter. TC's Garrett Yago scored the ball on a six-yard touchdown rush, and Smallwood found Alldrin on the two-point play. Oliver Greenbarg put the exclamation point on the victory after he returned an interception back to the house for 26 yards.

Turlock Christian 40, Jim Elliot Christian 21

The Modesto Bee, September 21, 2008

At Stockton - Robbie Smallwood completed 18 of 25 passes for 355 yards and four touchdowns to lift Turlock Christian. Cody Alldrin caught 10 passes for 224 yards and touchdowns of 27 and 44 yards.

TC 40, Jim Elliot Christian 21

The Turlock Journal, September 20, 2008

The Turlock Christian High varsity football squad is off to another great start this year. Saturday at Lincoln High of Stockton the Eagles improved to 2-0 after knocking off Jim Elliot Christian High, 40-21. The Eagles scored 28 points in the first half and went into the locker rooms ahead by 22. QB Robbie Smallwood of the Eagles hooked up with Cody Alldrin for a 27-yard touchdown pass, and then found Oliver Greenbarg for a 48-yard strike to make it a 14-0 ball game after the Eagles converted on the two-point attempt. In quarter No. 2, Garrett Yagi punched in a score from four yards out.

After Jim Elliot scored their first touchdown, TC answered with another Smallwood to Alldrin score for 44 yards. The TC quarterback also ran for a 15-yard touchdown and threw for a four-yard strike to Jeoff Retemeyer to finish the ball game. TC will host Orestimba High at Friday at High School Livingston.7:30 p.m.

Orestimba 28, TC 14

The Turlock Journal, September 26, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity football squad lost its first regular-season game since the 2006-07 season Friday night at Livingston High. The Orestimba High Warriors dropped the Eagles 28-14 and picked up their first win of the season. Robbie Smallwood of the Eagles tossed two first-half touchdowns to Cody Alldrin. The first score, which gave TC a 7-0 lead, was from 25 yards out and the second was a 19-yard toss to give TC a 14-7 lead. Orestimba scored two second-quarter touchdowns to take a 21-14 lead, and then scored their last in the fourth quarter when Ed King ran for a 90-yard touchdown to end the game.

Gustine 27, TC 0

The Turlock Journal, October 8, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity football club opened up Southern League play Friday night and were shut out 27-0 against Gustine High's Redskins. Gustine's varsity team scored two touchdowns in the opening quarter and once more in the second to take a 21-0 lead at the break. In the third quarter the Redskins tacked on one more touchdown thanks to a one-yard run from Jack Filippini to make up the final score.

Mariposa 37, TC 3

The Turlock Journal, October 17, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity football kicker Beau Warda scored the Eagles' only points during a 37-3 loss against Mariposa High's Grizzlies Friday night at Livingston High School. Warda connected on a 38-yard field goal to make it 3-0, but Mariposa pulled away with four second-half touchdowns. Mariposa's Kylan Brocchini had two touchdown runs to lead the Grizzlies (5-1 overall, 1-0 SL). TC dropped to 0-1 in the SL and are 2-4 overall.

TC 41, Delhi 0

The Turlock Journal, October 24, 2008

The Turlock Christian High varsity football squad had some fun Friday night during a SL matchup against Delhi High's Hawks, winning 41-0. James Riley of the Eagles broke for a 70-yard, first-quarter touchdown that made it 7-0 after a Beau Warda kick. Geoffrey Retemeyer hauled in a 15-yard reception via Robbie Smallwood to make it 14-0 after the first quarter. In the second quarter, TC's Cody Alldrin caught a 21 and 22-yard touchdown pass to make it 28-0 at the break. Riley scored from 10 yards out in the third quarter and Kyle Horjus returned an interception 50 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter to make up the final score. The Eagles will host Le Grand High Friday night at Delhi High at 7:30 p.m.

TC Football
The Turlock Journal, October 31, 2008

Le Grand High's varsity football squad ran up the scoreboard on the Turlock Chrsitian High Eagles Friday night during SL play. The Eagles fell to 3-5 overall, 1-2 in the Southern League. Le Grand is 4-4 overall and 2-1 in the league. The Bulldogs led 14-0 after period No. 1. Bob Perez and Lupe Diaz scored touchdowns. Perez scored a touchdown in the second quarter and Tony Ortegon scored from eight yards out to make it 28-0 at the break. Ortegon scored from one yard out and 70 yards out in the fourth quarter to make up the final score.

Waterford 35, TC 7
The Turlock Journal, November 7, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity football squad only mustered up one touchdown during a 35-7 Southern League loss against the Waterford High Wildcats Friday. Tanner Headrick scored three first-half touchdowns, all from a yard out to put the Wildcats up by three scores. After Kody Hampton returned an interception 46 yards to the house for a score, Waterford led 28-0 at the break. TC's James Riley scored on a one-yard run for the Eagles' only score. Beau Warda added the extra point. Headrick scored his fourth touchdown from one yard away in the fourth quarter as well to make up the final score. Waterford improved to 3-1 in league, while TC fell to 1-3 and are 3-6 overall.

Denair 35, TC 18
The Turlock Journal, November 14, 2008

Denair High's varsity football squad got a little payback against the Turlock Christian Eagles Friday night during a Southern League finale. In '07 the Eagles completed a perfect 10-0 season with a two-point victory over Denair, who bounced back in '08 and dropped TC 35-18 at Jack W. Lytton Stadium. The Coyotes finished the season 2-8 overall, 2-3 in the SL, while TC finished their year with a 3-6 overall record, 1-4 in the SL. Denair struck first and tacked on the first two touchdowns. Fernie Lira scored on a 35-yard rush a Mitchell Hilton returned a fumble 27 yards to the house. A pair of Paul Oei extra points made it 14-0. TC's Geoffrey Retemeyer hauled in a 62-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Robbie Smallwood to make it 14-6 at the end of one. Dylan Souza had an eight-yard touchdown run for Denair in the second quarter to make it 21-6. Smallwood scored on a 26-yard scamper to make it 21-12 at the break. In the third quarter, TC's Alex Holman scored on a 16-yard touchdown rush to make it 21-18, however the Coyotes closed the game strong with two touchdowns in the fourth period. Lira scored on a three-yard rush and Jose Galvan broke for a 13-yard score. Two kicks from Oei made up the game's final score and brought an end to the season.

BOYS SOCCER

RC Knights Fly Past TC Eagles

JOHN-JOEL GRIFFITHS, The Turlock Journal, September 3, 2008

Tony Campos of the Turlock Christian varsity soccer squad puts his head on a ball during Tuesday’s loss to Ripon Christian at the Turlock Regional Sports Complex.

Turlock Christian High's boys varsity soccer squad opened up the 2008 season Tuesday afternoon at the Turlock Regional Sports Complex. Although things didn't go the way the Eagles would have preferred, the ball club's first-year head coach Brian Ban will use the game to improve the team for Thursday. The visiting Ripon Christian High Knights of the Trans Valley League handed the TC Eagles an 8-1 loss. "I thought (RC) was good, but it was mostly our players," said Ban. "It was our first game, and we weren't really connecting out there. But as the season goes on I think we can improve and do better."

Ripon Christian, who improved to 1-1 in preseason, netted the first four goals of the contest and led the match early on. The Knights scored multiple goals on Turlock Christian's senior goalie Luke Kiss, but TC's Beau Warda played solid defense in the midfield. Eagles' sophomore Tevin Jones played well, too.

"Beau played good for us (Tuesday)," Ban said. "He was on defense and doing pretty good. (Jones) played pretty well also. "We had some players missing, but if I get them all back by Thursday we can have a good game."

The Turlock Christian Eagles have a match on the road scheduled for Thursday against Orestimba's Warriors of the Western Athletic Conference. This weekend the Eagles, and their Southern League rival Denair High will be competing in the annual Big Valley Christian tournament in Modesto Friday and Saturday.

Gustine 10, TC 2

The Turlock Journal, September 9, 2008

Gustine High's boys varsity soccer squad scored five goals in each half of a 10-2 rout of Turlock Christian High's Eagles Tuesday afternoon in Gustine. Humberto Aleman, Luis Sanchez, Oscar Flores and Ivan Ponce all had two goals for the Redskins during the victory.

Tioga 5, TC 3

The Turlock Journal, September 11, 2008

Tony Campos made 10 saves for the Turlock Christian Eagles Thursday, but TC still lost 5-3 against Tioga on the road. Tevin Jones, Kyron Loving and Nam Kim each scored goals for the Eagles during the loss.

Waterford 5, TC 0

The Turlock Journal, September 19, 2008

Turlock Christian High's boys varsity soccer squad dropped their Southern League opener agaisnt the Waterford High Wildcats Wednesday afternoon. The eagles fell to 0-3 overall, 0-1 in the SL after the loss. Jesus Perez scored two goals for Waterford (1-0 Sl, 8-3 overall), while Francisco Gutierrez, Juan Carlos Hernandez and Adrian Ruiz each scored once.

LG 5, TC 0
The Turlock Journal, September 26, 2008

Le Grand High's boys varsity soccer team handed it to the TC Eagles Wednesday afternoon, 5-0, in Southern League play. TC fell to 0-3 and Luke Kiss made 15 saves. Le Grand improved to 2-0-1 in the SL and were led by Tony Rodriguez's two goals.

Mariposa 2, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, September 29, 2008

Turlock Christian High's boys varsity soccer team put up a fight against Mariposa High Monday afternoon at the Turlock Regional Sports Complex, but the result was a 2-1 loss for the Eagles. Mariposa improved to 4-5-2 overall, 2-1-1 in the SL. Jason Buskeness and Jesus Ortiz scored the goals for Mariposa while Nic Carlson and Buskeness recorded the assists. TC fell to 1-9 overall, 0-4 in the SL. Tony Campos scored the goal off a penalty kick and goalie Luke Kiss finished with 12 saves in the net.

TC 6, Denair 2
The Turlock Journal, October 1, 2008

Turlock Christian's boys varsity soccer team came alive Wednesday and picked up their first win of the season with a 6-2 SL victory over Denair High. The Eagles improved to 1-4 and were led by Christian Madrigal's two goals and four assists. Tevin Jones scored twice and so did Kyron Loving. Jones also passed out two assists and Tyler Landmire made 11 saves. Denair fell to 0-4-1 and were led by Juan De La Cruz's two goals. Taylor Brunelll had an assist and Garrett Bordenave made seven saves for Denair.

Waterford 4, TC 2
The Turlock Journal, October 6, 2008

Turlock Christian High's boys’ varsity soccer squad fell short during a Southern League ball game against the Waterford High Wildcats Monday, 4-2, at the Turlock Regional Sports Complex. The Wildcats improved to 11-4-1 overall and 4-1-1 in the SL, while the Eagles dropped to 2-11 overall, 1-5 in conference. Waterford standout Juan Daccarett scored three goals. Kyron Loving had a score for the TC Eagles.

Delhi 3, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, October 8, 2008

Turlock Christian High's boys varsity soccer team put up one goal against Delhi High Wednesday, but that wasn't enough to avoid a 3-1 SL loss. Tony Campos recorded the Eagles' only goal in the loss and goalie Tyler Landmeier finished with three saves. TC fell to 2-12 overall, 1-6 in the SL.

LG 9, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, October 13, 2008

Le Grand High's boys varsity soccer team ran up the score against Turlock Christian High Monday in a SL matchup at the Turlock Regional Sports Complex, 9-1. The Bulldogs improved to 6-3-1 overall, 6-1-1 in the SL. TC dropped to 2-13 overall, 1-7 in league. Tevin Jones netted the Eagles' goal while the keeper Tyler Landmeier made 12 saves in the net. Luis Lopez and David Granados each scored twice for Le Grand.

Mariposa 9, TC 0
The Turlock Journal, October 15, 2008

Turlock Christian High's boys varsity soccer squad got blanked Wednesday afternoon against Mariposa High's Grizzlies, 9-0. The Eagles dropped to 2-13 overall and are 1-7 in the SL. Tyler Landmeier made 13 saves for the Eagles. Mariposa improved to 8-6-3 overall, 5-2-2 in the conference. Jason Buskeness and Jonathan Gonzalez each finished with hat tricks for Mariposa.

Denair 2, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, October 20, 2008

Denair High's boys varsity soccer squad improved to 1-8-1 in the SL following a 2-1 win over TC's Eagles Monday afternoon at the Turlock Regional Sports Complex. Paul Oei scored both of the Coyotes' goals during the victory and Garrett Bordenave finished up with eight saves. TC fell to 1-9 in conference. Kyron Loving scored the Eagles' only goal and Beau Warda finished with 18 saves.

TC 0, Delhi 0
The Turlock Journal, October 27, 2008

The Turlock Christian High boys varsity soccer squad battled the first-place Delhi High Hawks to a 0-0 tie last Monday afternoon at the Turlock Regional Sport Complex. The Eagles record stood at 2-15-2 overall, and 1-9-2 in the Southern League standings.

LG 5, TC 2
The Turlock Journal, October 29, 2008

Turlock Christian High's boys varsity soccer team is continuing to improve as the '08 season winds away. Wednesday afternoon at the Turlock Regional Sports Complex the Turlock Christian Eagles fell short to the visiting Le Grand High Bulldogs, 5-2. Tevin Jones and Christian Madrigal scored both of TC's goals, and the goalkeeper Beau Warda made 19 saves while guarding the cage. Le Grand received goals from Luis Lopez (2), Jose Marques, Antonio Rodriguez and Rigoberto Tinoco. The Bulldogs' goalkeeper finished up with six saves against the Eagles' offense, which fired eight total shots in the loss.

DHS Finishes With a Win Over Eagles
The Turlock Journal, November 7, 2008

Denair standout Paul Oei puts the ball in the net while TC’s junior goalie Tyler Landmeier attempts to make the save during the Coyotes’ 4-1 victory against the visiting Eagles Wednesday afternoon.

The Denair High boys varsity soccer club wasn't exactly playing for any type of championship Wednesday evening, nor did the Coyotes have an ice-cold bucket of Gatorade on hand. But during a Southern League showdown for second-to-last place in the final standings, Denair's first-year head coach Daniel Romero still got showered - with several 12 oz. bottles of water - following a 4-1 Southern League victory over the visiting Turlock Christian Eagles.

The Coyotes finished the year 4-14-2 overall record, 2-12-1 in league. The youth-laden Eagles finished their '08 campaign with a 2-19-1 overall mark and were 1-13-1 against Southern League opponents. "It's nice to end with a win," Romero said. "We were two of the bottom teams, and it was a battle for (fifth) place. But we were two competitive teams this year. "(TC) only had one senior and they will be very good next year. I expect both of us to be in the playoff hunt."

Denair's Juan De La Cruz scored in the first five minutes of the match to put Denair up by one. Carlos Suarez put the Coyotes up by two scores in the 20th minute with a goal assisted by the team's play-maker, Paul Oei, who finished with two scores and the helper in the first half. "(TC) has always been a physical game," Oei said. "They're our rivals, and our whole team wanted to win. One goal isn't enough to win a game, so it was definitely important for me to go and get that second goal on them."

The Coyotes were up by two after the first 40 minutes, but Turlock Christian's ball club certainly made a game of it in the second half. During the 47th minute of the match, TC's Tony Campos netted the Eagles' final goal of the year off of an assist from Christian Madrigal. That made it 2-1. "I thought we missed some changes," TC's first-year head coach Brian Band said. "But we played a little bit better in the second half."

Not even two minutes after Campos scored for the Eagles, Denair's Oei bounced right back. After picking the ball away from TC's middle row, Oei got loose in the opposite direction and split two defenders on his way to netting a goal past the Eagles' second-half keeper Tyler Landmeier. That made it 3-1 and put the game out of reach. "That's what we need from (Oei)," Romero said. "He's always a competitor, and he's played like that all season. When I need him to score, he understands he has to go score." Oei scored for the second time in the 74th minute when TC failed to clear the ball. Oei got his foot on it and put it away to make up the final score. He took nine of the Coyotes' 15 total shots. Denair's keeper Garret Bordenave finished with 13 saves in the net.

VOLLEYBALL

JV Volleyball Team

Hilmar 3, TC 0

The Turlock Journal, August 28, 2008

Hilmar High's Caitlin Benning finished with a game-high 11 kills and three blocks during the Yellowjackets' 3-0 victory over Turlock Christian's Eagles in the 2008 regular-season opener in Hilmar Thursday. Hilmar beat TC 25-9, 25-14, 25-17 in three straight to improve to 1-0 on the season. Madison Harris finished with 26 assists and Lindsey Mendes had eight digs. Natalie Grubb finished with four aces. For Turlock Christian's Eagles, Rebecah Larsson had four kills, while Johanna Muller finished with two blocks and five assists. TC's Morgan Andre tallied up nine digs while Emily Breuss led the squad with two aces.

TC Wins Without its Coach

The Modesto Bee, September 3, 2008

The Turlock Christian High volleyball team was missing a key component for its big nonleague matchup against Pitman on Tuesday night. Head coach Keith Landmeier was out of action, at home with food poisoning. But the Eagles still came through.

Aubrey Larsson had eight kills and six assists, leading Turlock Christian to a 25-21, 25-16, 19-25, 9-25, 15-11 victory over the Pride at Turlock Christian. Turlock Christian plays in Division V, the smallest playoff division in the Sac-Joaquin Section. Pitman, meanwhile, is a large CCC school. TC won the first two games, then watched Pitman come back to take the next two. "But we made a lineup adjustment and we had better passing in the fifth game," said TC assistant coach Ken Wynne. He said of Pitman, "That's a good team. They'll go far. This is a big win for us.

TC 3, Pitman 2

The Turlock Journal, September 3, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball squad won a key non-league match against Pitman High's Pride last Tuesday at Calvary Baptist. The Eagles won by scores of 25-21, 25-15, 19-25, 9-25, 15-11, and were led by Aubrey Larsson, who had eight kills and six aces. Johanna Muller finished with 12 assists and Morgan Andre made 10 digs defensively. The TC Eagles upped their record to 1-1 overall.

RC 3, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, September 4, 2008

In a rematch of last season's Sac-Joaquin Section Division V championship, the Ripon Christian High Knights defeated the Turlock Christian High Eagles once again by a score of 3-1 (23-25, 25-15, 25-17, 25-13). TC was 1-2 after the Foundation Game that didn't count for the overall record. Rebekah Muller made five kills for TC and Johanna Muller passed out eight assists. Aubrey Larsson recorded a block and so did Emily Breuss. Johanna Muller also had five aces, while Candice Balswick and Breuss each tallied eight digs. Candice Adema passed out 29 assists for RC.

Orestimba 3, TC 0
The Turlock Journal, September 5, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball team could not quite hang with Orestimba High's Warriors Friday night, falling 3-0 (25-16, 25-13, 25-20). Candice Balswick had one ace and seven digs while Aubrey Larsson had eight aces. Rebekah Muller finished up with five kills and Morgan Andre had three spikes in the non-conference loss.

TC 3, East Union 1
The Turlock Journal, September 9, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball squad hit the road Tuesday night for a ball game in Manteca, and the Eagles came back to Turlock with a 3-1 win over East Union High (25-18, 27-29, 25-21, 26-24). The Eagles improved to 2-2 in the preseason. TC was led by Aubrey Larsson, who had eight kills. Morgan Andre had eight kills as well and Johanna Muller tallied up 12 assists. Larsson also had two blocks and Muller and Emily Breuss finished with six aces apiece. Muller also finished with seven digs for the Eagles.

MC 3, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, September 10, 2008

Modesto Christian High's varsity volleyball squad hosted the Turlock Christian Eagles Wednesday in Salida for a non-conference matchup. The Crusaders knocked off TC in four games, 3-1 with scores of 23-25, 25-12, 25-22, 25-15. The Eagles fell to 2-3 in the preseason and Modesto Christian improved to 5-2. Johanna Muller had six kills and Candice Balswick had nine digs for the Eagles. Aubrey Larsson had five aces and she also had eight assists. Katie Allen had 13 kills and a block for MC of Salida.

Golden Valley Tournament
The Turlock Journal, September 13-14, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball squad hit the road Wednesday for a Southern League opener against Waerford High's Wildcats, who got beat 3-0 with scores of 25-5, 25-14, 25-9. The Eagles upped their record to 8-6 overall, 1-0 in the SL and were led by Emily Breuss, who finished with seven kills. Morgan Andre tallied up two blocks and Candice Balswick had six digs. Johanna Muller tallied seven aces to go with her 16 assists. Four of the five area high school varsity volleyball teams competed in the annual Golden Valley High tournament hosted by the Cougars last weekend. Turlock Christian, Hilmar, Turlock and Pitman each participated in the tournament. There were six total divisions and TC won the Platinum Championship. On Friday the Eagles lost to Gunn High (2-0) and lost to Los Banos High 2-0 as well. They closed the day out by beating Livingston 2-0. On Saturday, TC beat CC of Modesto 2-0, and then lost to Mariposa of the SL 2-0. They also beat Stoneridge High and Bret Harte High on Saturday, then closed the day by beating the Merced High Bears 25-17, 26-24 to win the Platinum Championship. Hilmar's Yellowjackets went 4-4 overall and took second in the Bronze Division. On Friday the 'Jackets beat Downey and Mariposa before losing to Buhach Colony in the third match. On Saturday, the 'Jackets lost against Atwater and Ripon High's Indians 2-0, but then beat Turlock 2-0 and Hughson 2-0 also. Chavez dropped Hilmar 2-1 in the Bronze Division final as Hilmar took second place. Turlock High went 3-4 in the GV tournament as they prep for league next week against Atwater. Pitman went 3-4 in the tournament over the two days as well.

TC 3, Waterford 0
The Turlock Journal, September 19, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball squad hit the road Wednesday for a Southern League opener against Waterford High's Wildcats, who got beat 3-0 with scores of 25-5, 25-14, 25-9. The Eagles upped their record to 8-6 overall, 1-0 in the SL and were led by Emily Breuss, who finished with seven kills. Morgan Andre tallied up two blocks and Candice Balswick had six digs. Johanna Muller tallied seven aces to go with her 16 assists.

Turlock Christian’s Rebekah Muller returns the Delhi service during the Eagles’ dominating SL win.

TCHS Claws thru Hawks in Three
JOHN-JOEL GRIFFITHS - The Turlock Journal, September 24, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball club is on a streak and picked up their fifth straight win Monday evening at the Calvary Baptist gymnasium. The Eagles improved to 2-0 in the Southern League after a 3-0 sweep over a visiting Delhi High, 25-16, 25-17, 25-13. Turlock Christian's junior trio of Aubrey Larsson, Morgan Andre and Johanna Muller led the statistic sheet, but it was an entire team effort from TC that propelled their record to 9-6 overall.

"The Golden Valley tournament was a turning point for our team," Turlock Christian's second-year head coach Keith Landmeier said. "They started coming together and communicating well. We finished on a high note taking our division championship and that was because our girls came together as a team, not as individuals."

TC won the first set by nine and the second game by eight. In Game 3 it was tied at 2-2, but TC went on a 13-3 run to pull away with the 15-5 lead. Andre, who finished with the game-high seven kills, got hot from the service line in the final game. She helped TC get three straight points with her service, then Larsson took over from the back line. Larsson led the squad with five aces. "What really didn't show up in the stats was (Andre's) contributions," Landmeier said. "She was the leader in kills, but beyond her kills, her service and passing were right on. A lot of times those things don't show up."

After TC led 17-8 they closed the match on an 8-5 run that sealed the contest. In Game 1 TC got off to a 10-9 lead before going on a 10-5 run capped by a Rebekah Muller kill. Larsson recorded a couple more points from the service line and Emily Breuss ended the first game with a serve that Delhi couldn't handle. Johanna Muller, the team's leader, setter and outside hitter, finished with a game-high 22 assists. "(Johanna) is our captain and our offense runs through her," Landmeier said. "She got the game ball from (Monday). Larsson and Rebekah Muller had good all-around games too. "But I have seen our girls play better and they all agreed. We play Le Grand (today) and we need to have all cylinders hitting against them. On the other side I was very proud of them for hanging in there and definitely playing well enough to beat the opponent."

Natalie Sanders, Larsson and R. Muller each finished with one block while Candice Balswick and R. Muller each recorded six digs. Turlock Christian will be on the road today for a ball game against Le Grand, the league favorite. "For Le Grand our defense has to be the strongest," Landmeier concluded. "We have to be able to dig and pass effectively."

Le Grand 3, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, September 24, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball squad had last Wednesday's Southern League matchup against Le Grand High circled. Last week the Bulldogs hosted the TC Eagles and defeated the visitor 3-1 by scores of 25-10, 22-25, 25-16, 25-23. Aubrey Larsson had seven kills as did Rebekah Muller. Emily Breuss tallied four kills and Andre Morgan finished with five. Captain Johanna Muller finished with three kills and four aces. Larsson finished with three aces and junior Candice Balswick had two aces. J. Muller also passed out 20 assists from the setter position.

Carmichael High Tournament
The Turlock Journal, September 27, 2008

Turlock Christian's varsity volleyball squad hit the road Saturday to compete in the annual Carmichael High tournament. The Eagles finished 3-2 during the one-day tourney which they opened up with a loss to Victory Christian High. The Eagles then dropped River City High before losing against Sutter Union, 2-0. The Eagles were knocked into the consolation bracket and closed the tournament with another win against River City followed by a win over Las Plumas High that was for the consolation title.

Mariposa 3, TC 0
The Turlock Journal, September 30, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball team dropped back-to-back Southern League contests after a 3-0 loss against Mariposa High on the road Monday evening. The Grizzlies dropped the Eagles 25-14, 25-21, 25-20 and improved to 4-0 in the SL. Turlock Christian fell to 2-2 and were led by Natalie Sanders (four kills) and Morgan Andre (four kills). Emily Breuss also had four kills while Johanna Muller finished with 14 assists. Aubrey Larsson finished with one block as did Andre. Candice Balswick tallied up three aces and led the team with total digs.

Denair 3, TC 2
The Turlock Journal, October 1, 2008

Denair High's varsity volleyball team picked up a key win Wednesday against crosstown rival Turlock Christian High in Denair, 3-2. The Coyotes won the five-set match 25-22, 25-16, 10-25, 16-25, 15-5 and were led by Janay Bankston's game-high 29 kills. Courtney Nutcher was busy and passed out a match-high 30 assists. Nutcher also had 10 digs while Bankston tallied six blocks and five aces as well. Denair improved to 10-4-1 overall, 3-2 in the SL while the Eagles fell to 10-11 overall, 2-3 in conference. Aubrey Larsson finished with 14 kills for TC and so did freshman Rebekah Muller. Johanna Muller finished with 32 assists and Candice Balswick made 12 digs. Natalie Sanders had two blocks and Balswick three aces. R. Muller had three aces as well while serving the ball.

TC Eagles Soar Against Wildcats in SL Match-up
JOHN-JOEL GRIFFITHS - The Turlock Journal, October 7, 2008

Waterford High's varsity volleyball squad did not want to go home during the third set of Monday's Southern League matchup against the Turlock

TC’s Emily Breuss gets to the ball during Game 1 of Monday’s sweep against Waterford.

Christian Eagles. The visiting Wildcats were desperately attempting to force a set No. 4 at the Calvary Baptist gym, but the Eagles simply refused to let the ball game proceed. TC junior Aubrey Larsson registered a key block that tied the match at 25-25 and then freshman Rebekah Muller tallied up one her six kills to make it point. Larsson finished the match by finding an empty gap, resulting in a 3-0 sweep over Waterford. The scores were 25-16, 25-6, 27-25.

"(Waterford) was more competitive than the first time we met them at their place a couple of weeks ago," TC head volleyball coach Keith Landmeier said. "But we haven't hit (our stride) yet. I don't think we are playing up to our ability and most of the girls will tell you the same thing. We got away with this one, but we have a tough league and we need to get our game going if we're going to compete with some of these other teams."

After winning the first two games convincingly, the Eagles weren't so convincing in Game 3. Waterford, who was led by Jessica George, put up a fight in the third set. Game 3 saw 19 ties and the last tie was at 25 a piece. Natalie Sanders broke a 10-10 tie with a kill that started a five-point run. Morgan Andre ended the run at 15-11 with an ace. Waterford scored the next four points to tie it at 15 all. Sanders recorded a kill that tied it at 21-21, and then she came up with a block that made it 22-21. R. Muller tallied a spike that made it 24-23 and one that made it 26-25. Larsson (two blocks) ended the match with a tap that found the gap within the Waterford defense. "Rebekah (Muller) has a fantastic game," Landmeier said of his freshman. "We just need to hone it and fine tune it. She has all the skills needed. "Johanna (Muller) is our captain and our setter and really the whole offense runs through her. I was very happy with what she did (Monday). Some of our game was a little off, but she was able to get to just about everything." J. Muller finished the contest with 18 assists, a pair of digs and five aces.

TC opened up Game 1 with a 9-2 run that featured an ace from Candice Balswick, a kill from Emily Breuss and an ace from Andre that capped the run. Chesly Carlson of the Eagles put down a kill that made it 10-6 in the first set. Carlson also registered an ace that stretched the Eagle lead to eight (16-8). Balswick had another ace that made it 20-13 and Andre had an ace that made it 22-16. TC ended the first game after the Wildcats were not able to handle the service.

In Game 2 the Eagles opened the set on a 9-0 run. J. Muller had a string of aces in the second set. Heather McCuistion helped cap a 5-0 run that made it a 15-2 contest. R. Muller had a kill that made it 16-3 and a Larsson ace made it 18-3. Breuss recorded a kill that made it 19-4. TC closed the set on a 6-2 run and the Wildcats went down 0-2 after a missed kill attempt. "We're a very well-rounded team," coach Landmeier added. " Morgan (Andre) is a key component along with (Balswick and Larsson). It's not just a one or two-person show. Last year we had a couple of standouts that always dominated the stats, but this year the leaders are changing constantly. "Without any one of them we would be a lesser team. I will say that our bench is picking their game up, too, and that is encouraging. It's time for us to hit our stride because we're in the thick of it."

Larsson finished with two kills and Breuss had three. Carlson and Sanders each had three spikes as well. George led Waterford with six kills and nine digs. Melissa Armstrong finished with two aces and Taylor Kosky tallied six assists. Rian O'Campo tallied a pair of blocks while playing the front of the net. TC improved to 13-11 overall and are 3-3 in the SL. The Eagles will travel to Delhi High to face the Hawks today and then will prep for Le Grand Monday evening followed by Mariposa High Wednesday.

TC 3, Delhi 0
The Turlock Journal, October 7, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball squad put the hammer on Delhi High Wednesday by sweeping the Hawks 3-0 with scores of 25-13, 25-9, 25-19. The Eagles were led by Emily Breuss, who had eight kills and six aces. Candice Balswick had five aces and Morgan Andre had three. Rebekah Muller put down seven kills and Natalie Sanders had six. Johanna Muller finished with five digs and R. Muller had four. Andre and Megan Brown each had three digs apiece in the win that improved TC's record to 14-12 overall and to 4-3 in the Southern League.

LG 3, TC 0
The Turlock Journal, October 13, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball team didn't have enough to compete with Le Grand High Monday evening at the Calvary Baptist gymnasium. The visitor dropped the Eagles 3-0 with scores of 25-19, 25-16, 25-21 and improved to 11-1 overall, 8-0 in SL. TC fell to 14-12 overall, 4-4 in the SL. Rebekah Muller tallied up six kills and Natalie Sanders two blocks. Candice Balswick finished with 11 digs and Aubrey Larsson had three aces. Johanna Muller passed out 13 assists. Briana Giampaoli had seven kills and Jennifer Hansen finished with four blocks and three aces.

Mariposa 3, TC 0
The Turlock Journal, October 15, 2008

Mariposa High's varsity volleyball squad improved to 8-1 in the Southern League following a 3-0 sweep of the Turlock Christian High Eagles with scores of 25-17, 25-18, 25-17 Wednesday evening at the Calvary Baptist gymnasium. Hannah Jay led the Grizzlies with 12 kills while Emily Breuss led the Eagles with four on the night. Johanna Muller passed out 10 assists and Breuss also had two blocks. Aubrey Larsson finished with two blocks and a pair of aces. Muller and Morgan Andre each had two aces as well. Candice Balswick led the Eagles with 10 digs. Gab Forga finished the game with 25 assists and Jay had five blocks.

Denair Denies Eagles in 4
JOHN-JOEL GRIFFITHS - The Turlock Journal, October 22, 2008

The Denair High varsity volleyball squad is currently in third place in the Southern League standings and are sitting at No. 18 in the Sac-Joaquin

Denair senior Blayke Millsap keeps the ball alive during a 3-1 victory over the TCHS Eagles Monday at Calvary Baptist

Section's Division IV Power Rankings. Only the top 16 make the postseason, so needless to say Monday night's showdown against Southern League rival Turlock Christian High was a key game that had the ability to make or break Denair's entire season. Denair responded with a four-set victory over TC for the second time this year, winning by scores of 21-25, 25-20, 25-19, 25-9. The Coyotes improved to 6-4 in the conference and are 13-7-1 overall. TC dropped to 4-6 in the SL, 14-14 overall.

"Going into this game we were No. 18 in the power rankings," the Coyotes' head volleyball coach Steve Doerksen said. "So we're fighting for a playoff spot and we need to pick up every win we can if we want to make that happen. "TC is our last match of the year and they're always tough. We haven't been to the playoffs since I have been here, and that would be a big accomplishment for us."

After Denair dropped the first set of the match they rallied back and won the next three in a row to claim the victory. During Game 1 the Coyotes scored the first three points and led 5-1 with an ace from junior Corinne Martinez. Denair took a 9-3 lead with a kill from Wendy Makin, but TC freshman Rebekah Muller got hot from the service line and tallied several aces to give the Eagles a 10-9 lead. Muller had five aces in the run. TC took a 15-11 advantage and maintained the separation throughout. Denair cut it to one point at 21-20 and 22-21. But TC's Morgan Andre slammed down a kill to make it 23-21, and TC scored the next two points to win the first set. Junior Aubrey Larsson ended the first game with a kill to take the 1-0 lead.

"We have a tendency to come out a little slow," Doerksen said. "In the first game we were back on our heels and TC played really well and won the first one. But then our girls woke up and turned on the gas." In Game 2 the set was tied up nine times. Samantha Dornan of Denair put down a kill to pull within one (9-8) and Janay Bankston had a kill to pull within three at 12-9. The match was tied at 13 and 15 and an ace from Bankston made it 16-15 in favor of the Coyotes.

Denair then went on a 5-1 run capped by a kill from Dornan. Another ace from the freshman Muller made it 19-20, but that was the closest TC got in Game 1. Denair ended the second game on a 5-1 run capped by a kill from Bankston. Bankston finished the match with 18 kills and six blocks. Millsap finished with nine digs from the setter position. "(Dornan) had a big game," Doerksen said. "She had a big game playing the middle position. She had seven kills and three blocks and stepped up. Janay had her usual solid game and (Millsap) led us with digs in the back row. The whole team played well and it wasn't a one-man show. "Every one stepped up. I could have gave game balls to five different girls."

Game 3 was a critical set that tipped in favor of the Coyotes. Denair opened Game 3 on a 8-1 run that saw two kills from Bankston and two aces from the junior Shelbyanna Tshantz (three aces). However, three straight aces from Larsson made it a three-point game. Natalie Sanders had a couple of kills that brought the Eagles even closer. A Dornan play at the net made it 16-9 in favor of the Coyotes. Denair scored the next three points to lead by 10. TC pulled within five but that was the closest they got. A missed serve from the Eagles ended the game at 25-19 and gave the Coyotes a slight cushion.

During Game 4 Denair opened the set on a 8-1 run, again, that saw two blocks from Bankston and an early ace from Martinez. Emily Breuss and Larsson each had kills in Game 4, but Bankston's kill made it 13-6. Another kill from Bankston made it 17-9 and an assist from setter Courtney Nutcher (22 assists) to the 6-foot senior made it 19-9. Another block from Bankston made it 20-9 and the Coyotes closed the match on a 5-0 run to hold the Eagles scoreless. Andre led the Eagles with six kills and Johanna Muller tallied up 19 assists. Larsson had one block as did R. Muller (eight aces). Larsson had five digs, and so did Andre and Balswick.

Mariposa and Le Grand high schools are tied for first place in the Southern League after the Grizzlies beat the Bulldogs in five games Monday evening. They are both 9-1 in the SL. Denair's next ball game is scheduled for today against Le Grand at home. TC has a date with Waterford High in Waterford later this evening.

TC 47, Delhi 0

The Turlock Journal, October 24, 2008

TC 3, Delhi 0
The Turlock Journal, October 27, 2008

Turlock Christian High's girls varsity volleyball squad made a 3-0 victory over Delhi High's Hawks look all too routine Monday night. The Eagles dropped the Hawks 25-7, 25-13, 25-19. Natalie Sanders, Andre Morgan and Rebekah Muller each had four kills during the loss. Emily Breuss (five) and Aubrey Larsson combined for eight kills between them. Johanna Muller had 10 assists and Larsson passed out four. Andre had five aces. Breuss had four and Larsson tallied three. Candice Balswick had more than half of the team's 33 digs.

LG 3, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, October 29, 2008

Turlock Christian High's varsity volleyball squad played fantastic volleyball Wednesday night during a SL ball game against the visiting Le Grand High Bulldogs, who are tied for first in the conference standings. TC took the first game, but ended up losing the next three after Game 2 slipped through their fingers. Le Grand escaped with a 23-25, 25-21, 25-23, 25-13 victory and improved to 15-2 overall, 13-1 in the SL. Brianna Giampaoli finished with 24 kills and two blocks for the Bulldogs. Turlock Christian's Emily Breuss led the ball club in kills with eight, had three aces and 11 digs. Natalie Sanders had seven kills and three blocks. The Libero Candice Balswick finished with 26 digs. Aubrey Larsson tallied up seven aces to go with her seven kills. Junior setter Johanna Muller passed out 22 assists and had three kills for the Eagles. Freshman Rebekah Muller tallied three aces and seven kills. Morgan Andre had 12 digs, three aces and a kill. The Eagles will host Mariposa High Monday night at the Calvary Baptist gymnasium. They will close the league schedule Wednesday with a matchup against Denair's Coyotes, who have won the first two matches so far.

Mariposa 3, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, November 3, 2008

Mariposa High's varsity volleyball squad will be playing for a Southern League championship tonight, but on Monday evening the Grizzlies downed the Turlock Christian High Eagles in four sets, 25-8, 25-17, 22-25, 25-16. The Grizzlies improved to 13-1 in the SL while the Eagles dropped to 6-8. Staci Cann led the Grizzlies with 12 kills. Hannay Jay also cashed in 12 kills, while Gab Forga finished with 28 assists. Jay also had six blocks and Forga had five aces. Morgan Foley finished with eight digs. Morgan Andre of the Eagles finished with seven kills and Johanna Muller passed out 16 assists. Aubrey Larsson and Natalie Sanders both finished with one block. Emily Breuss had four aces and Candice Balswick finished with 10 digs for the Eagles, who close the season tonight at the road against the Denair High Coyote.

Playoff Bound - TC Stuns Denair in SL Finale
The Turlock Journal, November 7, 2008

Denair and Turlock Christian high's varsity volleyball squads were playing for everything Wednesday during a Southern League finale at the Coyote home gym. It was win or season over, and a trip to each of their division's Sac-Joaquin Section tournaments were on the line. The Coyotes entered the game leading the season-series 2-0, and Turlock Christian simply couldn't see themselves being swept. Both teams controlled their own destiny, and the Eagles responded under a great deal of pressure by knocking off Denair in four games, 25-21, 25-20, 22-25, 25-15.

"They beat us twice already," said Keith Landmeier, the second-year head coach of the TC Eagles. "And that just kills us. That was enough fuel right there. Even if there was nothing on the line, it meant everything to beat Denair, and they were focused." TC freshman Rebekah Muller's performance was unbelievable. Her service game was unpredictable and Denair's defense had trouble to say the least. Muller finished with five aces and six kills, and she finished Game 4 with an ace that ended the match and propelled the Eagles into the Sac-Joaquin Section Division V postseason for a third straight season.

Two years ago the Eagles won the section title, and last season they were the runner-up to Ripon Christian High at UC Davis. TC barely snuck into the tournament this year and are the No. 16 seed in the playoffs scheduled to start Tuesday. The Eagles will be on the road to face the No. 1 seed Wilton Christian High. "I don't know if it's pride, but deep down I think you just say 'we can't miss the playoffs', Landmeier said. "But we can't get that mentality (and think) getting here is good enough. If we can play like we did against Denair we can beat anybody on that bracket." For instance, the tournament's No. 2 seed at the bottom half of the bracket is Stone Ridge Christian of Merced, and TC beat them during a match at the annual Golden Valley tournament.

After winning Game 1, Muller ended the second set with a serve Denair mishandled and made it 2-0. In the third set, however, the Coyotes battled back. They were trailing 20-22 when head coach Steve Doerksen called for a timeout. Denair's season was three points away from being over. "It was now or never," Dorksen said. "The playoffs hung in the balance. The girls played hard and I could see it in their faces after the game. The girls played their hearts out. "TC picked up every ball we hit and they were digging and passing well. Keith is a great coach and I give them all the credit. TC smelled victory and when they get rolling it's hard to stop." Denair closed the third game on a 5-0 run after the momentum-breaking timeout to make it 2-1.

In Game 4 the Eagles started the game on a 10-3 run and took a 12-5 lead after a Natalie Sanders kill. Sanders, Aubrey Larsson and senior Emily Breuss were all too clutch for the Eagles. After TC took a 15-10 lead with a Johanna Muller ace, TC closed the match on a 10-5 run to claim victory. Larsson led the team with eight aces and she had four kills. Breuss had six aces and five kills. Morgan Andre had five kills and Sanders turned in seven kills. J. Muller passed out 24 assists. Breuss and Andre each had eight digs and Candice Balswick had seven.

Denair's Janay Bankston turned in a jaw-dropping 28 kills and Courtney Nutcher led the team with a game-high 37 assists. Bankston also had two blocks, five aces and senior Blayke Millsap led the team with seven digs. If Denair would have won they would have earned the No. 16 seed in the Division IV tournament and would have had to play the No. 1 seed Ripon High at their place.

Woodland Christian 3, TC 1
The Turlock Journal, November 14, 2008

The Turlock Christian High varsity volleyball squad, the defending Sac-Joaquin Section Division V runner-ups, opened up the postseason and came up short against the No. 1 seed Woodland Christian High. The Eagles traveled on Tuesday and their season ended after a 3-1 loss, 25-15, 24-26, 25-13, 25-15. Morgan Andre led the Eagles with eight aces, Aubrey Larsson had four and Emily Breuss finished with three. Freshman Rebekah Muller led the team with nine kills. Larsson had five kills and Andre finished with four. Natalie Sanders had three kills on 14 total attacks. The setter Johanna Muller finished with 21 assists. Larsson passed out two. Candice Balswick finished with 13 digs, Breuss had eight and Larsson had seven digs for the Eagles, who finished the season with a 17-17 overall record. TC made the D-V playoffs by knocking off Denair High in a SL finale to end the regular season.

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

October 6, 2008 October 13, 2008 October 20, 2008

October 27, 2008 November 3, 2008 November 10, 2008

November 17, 2008

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