Mater Dei dunks all over Foothill

The Monarchs defeated Foothill 68-43 to capture the Orange Holiday Classic. Tournament MVPs Tyler Lamb had 20 pts, 3 stl, 3 blks while Keala King added 13 pts, 10 reb, & 5 asts.

Get into the holiday spirit!

Yes, I'm known more for my OCVarsity prep reporting, and this is a sports blog after all, but that doesn't mean we can't get into the holiday spirit! Here are two holiday/Christmas videos I produced for OCRegister.com that'll be sure to stuff your stocking full of joy!

The Science of Gingerbread has taken over the Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana. Kids can learn what goes into making gingerbread as well as view award winning gingerbread houses.



The Fullerton landmark known as the "Christmas House" is displaying their lights for the last time. For over 20 years, Jean Payne and Russ Miller have spent thousands of dollars to bring joy to visitors.



The ninth annual "Santa Ride" brought 100 motorcyclists dressed as Santa Claus delivering presents to kids from the Orangewood Children's Home. Video by Jonathan Khamis, OCRegister.com

2009 All-County Football Videos

Highlights of the 2009 selections including an interview with the offensive player of the year Cody Fajardo.



Highlights of the 2009 selections, including an interview with the defensive player of the year Jordan Zumwalt.



Garden Grove head coach Joe Hay was met with an unexpected tragedy to start the season. Linebacker Kevin Telles collapsed on the field and later passed away. His Argos rallied and went undefeated to the Southern title game.



Bloopers from the All-County photo shoot at the ESPN Zone in Anaheim.

Servite's last second FG wins state

The Friars defeat Rocklin 33-30 to win their first CIF state bowl game. Servite was up 30-10 in the third quarter, before the Thunder roared back to tie the game. Nicholas Echeverry's last second FG sealed the title for Servite.

Servite had to get through the best of the best to get to this title game. They have now survived three games that came down to the final moments. First came Long Beach Poly. Servite blocked their attempt at a tying field goal. Then came Mission Viejo, who decided to go for two and the win, but were unable to convert. Finally, with tonight's win, Servite caps off their special season by winning state.

That doesn't count defeating Mater Dei for the first time in over 20 years, becoming the first team to win the Trinity League outright (and go undefefeated nonetheless), and beating what I still think was the most talented football team all season in Edison.

Finally, congratulations to Servite for staying classy all year long. In a year that saw USC and UCLA throw chivalry out the window., Coach Troy Thomas did it the right way.

He took the foot off the gas against Crespi, because he didn't want to embarass his former school. He pulled his young assistant coaches aside late against Mater Dei, when emotions rode high after some chippy play. He told his team not to point their figures, signaling they were number one, after defeating Edison.

It's funny how professional and college coaches could learn from coaches in high school.

Highlights and interviews just a click away!

OCVarsity Week in Review: Football championships

The OCVarsity Week in Review for Dec. 14 highlights the CIF football championship games. Footage includes Servite vs. Edison, La Habra vs. Trabuco Hills, Garden Grove vs. La Mirada, and St. Margaret's vs. Ontario Christian.

What an oustanding week in High School football. We saw an unexpected run end in heartbreak for Garden Grove. A three-peat dynasty cement itself in La Habra. Orange County history made as St. Margaret's won their fourth consecutive title. Also, a little game involving the two best teams in the Pac-5 championship game.

Enjoy the highlights below!

Servite defeats Edison to win Pac-5 championship

The Friars defeat the Chargers 16-6 to win their first CIF title since 1983. Servite held Edison scoreless through 3 quarters as Servite laid into Edison. Whether it was Coleby Clemmer, Jacob Slemmer, or Blake Brady, these guys proved a point.

It’s well known that defense wins championships, and Servite certainly proved that, holding the Chargers to 35 total yards in the first half. This was against a team that was averaging 36.4 points per game.

Jeff Trojan and Dylan Leener weren’t winning the jump balls they did when Edison beat Servite 23-9 on Sept. 25.

Also, Servite celebrated with class. Head Coach Troy Thomas didn’t want any one hoisting a finger saluting that they were number one, but the Friars might get the opportunity to do that in the state title game next week.

Finally, congratulations to Edison on a great season. I know the Huntington Beachers are tired of coming in second place, but there’s no shame in that.

Video highlights and interviews are a click away!

Three-peat! La Habra shuts out Trabuco Hills

The Highlanders win their third consecutive CIF championship shuting out Trabuco Hills 21-0. Quarterback Cody Clements scored three touchdowns, while the Highlanders defense only allowed 49 rush yards.

What an amazing run for La Habra. They have now won five CIF titles this decade, and that can all be traced to Frank Mazzotta. They went back-to-back in '02 and '03, and have now three-peated their way into the record books.

It was nice to see Josh Quezada and his brother share a long embrace after the game. Josh credits his older brother for improvements in his game, and molding him into the man he is today. He also wanted to dedicate his newest championship ring to his other brother Jarell, who played for the Highlanders from '04 to '06.

Highlights and interviews are just a click away!

La Mirada takes title over heartbroken Garden Grove

The Matadores win the Southern Division championship over Garden Grove 49-27.

The Argonauts were rolling until their quarterback Sean Young was injured early in the second quarter. He left the game and was later wheeled out on a stretcher with a rib injury. Being down on the sidelines, it was gut wrenching to see him fight away his tears. His team suffered in his absence, struggling to even pick up a first down.

Without Sean Young, La Mirada went on to score 42 consecutive points on the heels of Justin Torres and his three touchdowns.

However, my favorite part of the game came towards the end of the fourth quarter, as Carlos Arias tumbled over a cheerleader block, trying to get out of the way of an oncoming player. He ruined his knees and nearly sent an innocent cheerleader to a brutal fall. Truly hilarious.

Check out the video highlights below!

OCVarsity Week in Review: Football semifinals, basketball record

Football semifinals footage featuring Mission Viejo vs Servite, Edison vs Lakewood, Trabuco Hills vs Tustin, Cypress vs La Habra, and La Mirada vs Laguna Hills.

Also, a basketball coaching record broken at Mater Dei, and footage of the #1 wrestler in the county Tank Knowles.

Quezeda's 300 Yards carry La Habra over Cypress

We have a possible dynasty in the making. Forget the Lakers, Yankees, and Patriots, a budding dynasty is growing in Orange County.

The La Habra Highlanders football team is gunning for their fifth CIF title this decade and their third straight, as La Habra defeated Cypress 35-21 in the Southwest semifinal.

The Highlanders' Josh Quezada scored four touchdowns, rushing for 300 yards, while the defense held Cypress to only seven points in the 2nd half.

Cypress Head Coach Ray Fenton has turned Cypress into a respectable football program, but he was clearly distraught after the game.

He sat in a dark corner near the south end zone, staring at his dejected team. Being on the sidelines, I could tell that the refs were getting to Fenton. He even ran half way across the field at halftime to inform the officials that La Habra was late to arrive, and they should be flagged for a 15-yard penalty.

Interviews & highlights are a click away!

Servite survives after Mission goes for two

Would you go for two and the win? With, the Diablos down 19-18 with 47 seconds remaining in the game, Mission Viejo coach Bob Johnson decided to go for two rather than kick a PAT and tie the game.

This might have something to do with his kicker missing all night. The dude missed two PATs and a field goal earlier in the game, so that must've been running in his mind.

Anyways, the two point conversion failed and it cost them the game as they fell to the Friars 19-18. Servite advances to the finals for the first time since 1995.

Looking back, yeah it was aggressive, yeah they had the momentum, but no it wasn't the right call. Just kick the PAT and give your team a chance in OT.

Highlights & interviews are a click away!

Mater Dei coach becomes all-time winner

Mater Dei head coach Gary McKnight won his 830th career victory making him the all-time winningest coach in the history of the CIF SS. His Monarchs defeated Norwalk 116-53. Interviews with McKnight, Franklin & Lamb.

The amazing Anthony Wilkerson

Anthony "All Day" Wilkerson is leading the county in rushing touchdowns. The senior is commited to Stanford and has ran all over county opponents. Wilk is also close to breaking Dashaun Foster's school record.

OCVarsity Week in Review: 2nd round of football playoffs

The quarterfinals of CIF playoff football action showcased some great games, but none better than Servite vs. Long Beach Poly. Included in the video is the exciting finish, as well as highlights of Mission Viejo win over Notre Dame, and Edison's domination of Dana Hills.

Edison dominates Dana Hills to advance to semis

Dana Hills loses to Edison 47-16 in the 2nd round of the Pac-5 playoffs. Viles threw four TD passes, with two apiece going to Dylan Leener & Jeff Trojan. Wade Houston & Davion Orphey each had a TD as well.

OCVarsity Week in Review: Football Playoffs & Girls Volleyball

The week in review for November 23 showcases first round playoff action with football footage from Servite vs. San Clemente, Dana Hills vs. Orange Lutheran, Mission Viejo vs. Long Beach Wilson, Trabuco Hills vs. Savanna, and Laguna Hills vs. Estancia.

Also shown is Los Alamitos vs Newport Harbor in Division I-AA championship volleyball.

Girls Volleyball: Newport Harbor defeats Los Alamitos to win title

The Sailors capture their 8th CIF volleyball title and their first one since 2002. Newport won in four games, 27-29, 25-19, 25-23, 25-20. Interviews with Coach Glenn, Katey Thompson & Kirby Burnham.

Pac-5 Playoffs: Dana Hills ends Orange Lutheran's season

The Dolphins advance to the second round for the first time since '92 with a dominating 30-10 victory over Orange Lutheran. Josh Dean threw for 3 TD while Chris Kearney had 142 total yards.

San Clemente looking to upset Servite

The Tritons barely made the playoffs, and have a tough 1st round matchup with #3 Servite. Chase Rettig, Dominick Ela & David Espino lead the way for the Tritons as they're confident going into Friday's game.

Mission Viejo kid makes $1,000 throw

Mike Lupica's book tour stopped by Mission Viejo where a $1,000 contest was held. 100 kids tried out but only a couple were able to convert a throw from about 10 feet. A winner was determined via raffle.

Final OC Top 10

The best of the best show up in the final OC Top 10. What changes were made after last week's big games? How far did Fountain Valley and Dana Hills fall? Did Los Al climb up into the top five?

These questions answered and more! Click on the video below:

#2 Mission Viejo back on top vs. #4 Dana Hills

The Diablos take their first South Coast League title since '06 with a dominant 49-17 victory over Dana Hills. Exavier Edwards scored 4 TD as Mission Viejo capped off an undefeated regular season.

Middlebrooks brilliant but Fountain Valley loses to Los Alamitos

Los Alamitos is back in the playoff picture with their 31-22 win over Fountain Valley. Kyle Middlebrooks ran for 176 yards and scored two touchdowns but Nick & Shaq Richardson were too much to handle.

OC Top 10: Big league games shook up countodown

Six teams have changed spots in the top 10 after big league matchups last week. Did Mater Dei gain ground? How far did Fountain Valley fall? Did Los Al make the top 5?

#1 Edison shuts out #4 Fountain Valley and retains bell

The Chargers proved their dominance in the Sunset League shutting out Fountain Valley 24-0. The Edison defense recorded 4 sacks, and Davion Orphey had 2 TD on 124 Yds rushing.

Akeelie Muhammad scores 5 TD on Pacifica

Cypress defeats Pacifica 33-20 for at least a share of the Empire League title. Akeelie Muhammad scored 5 TD while rushing for 247 Yds. The Centurions clinched back-to-back league titles.

OC Top 10: Big matchups this week

The best of the best have cemented their sports in the top ten, but questions remain. Did Los Alamitos fall after their loss to Edison? Did Fountain Valley's win push them into the top three?

Mission Viejo scores 70 on Aliso Niguel

The Diablos set a school record scoring 70 points in a dominant win over Aliso Niguel. Exavier Edwards & Dallas Kessman each scored 3 TD.

Mater Dei back on track vs. JSerra

The Monarchs three-game skid ends in a dominant win over JSerra 45-7. Junior Corbin Anderson had three scores, running for 118 yards. Victor Blackwell had 3 catches for 72 yards.

Edison wins wild one over Los Alamitos

The Chargers lost the time of possession battle, were unable to score an offensive touchdown, but still won the game 27-10 on the strength of their special teams and defense. Luke Eddy & Steven Malone led the way.

Fountain Valley upset with win over Newport Harbor

#4 Fountain Valley wins ugly against Newport 37-32. The Barons botched two punts, which led to safeties, and were heavily penalized. QB Dominic Ragland & Middlebrooks played well though, each scoring 2 TD.

OC Top 10: Statements made in Week 7

The powerhouses in the top 10 dominated this weekend. Edison, Servite, and Mission Viejo defeated their rivals and cemented their positions this week, but which team broke into the top 10? Jonathan Khamis, OCVarsity.com

Jonathan Khamis Special Guest on Sports Central "High School Rewind"

I had the opportunity be a guest on Sports Central's "High School Rewind" show. I had a great time talking high school football with my former broadcasting partner Rahshaun Haylock. I was there along with Servite's head coach Troy Thomas and quarterback Cody Fajardo.

I appear half way into the video so check out the show by clicking the link below:

http://www.cbs2.com/video/?id=117657@kcbs.dayport.com

Analyzing Servite's victory over Mater Dei

Steve Fryer and yours truly break down Servite's long awaited victory over Mater Dei. Exclusive footage is shown of Servite's players and fans celebrating after the game.

20 years in the making: Servite defeates Mater Dei

It took 21 years but Servite finally defeats Mater Dei in a classic Trinity League game 30-20. Friar QB Cody Fajardo had the game of his life with 3 TD, 131 RUSH, 150 PASS. Interviews with players & coach Troy Thomas.

Tustin challenged in win over Villa Park

The Tillers win 35-20 after they were finally tested by a team in the 4th Qtr. Villa Park scored twice in the 4th, but it wasn't enough. Wilkerson ran for 204 yds & 2 TD while AJ Rafter had an INT & TD. Jonathan Khamis, OCVarsity.com

Servite looks to end streak vs. Mater Dei

The Friars haven't defeated Mater Dei in 20 years. 1988 was the last year Servite won, but this year's team is confident. Senior QB Cody Fajardo and OT Karifi Taula lead the way. Interviews with players and Coach Thomas.

O.C. Top 10: After League Play

The O.C. top 10 shakes up after the first game of league play. Where did Orange Lutheran & Mater Dei land after their classic game? How far did Los Alamitos fall after their upset loss to Newport Harbor?

Epic Finish: Orange Lutheran outlasts Mater Dei

Orange Lutheran defeats Mater Dei for the 5th year in a row, 28-25, in a game that featured 7 lead changes. Monarch WR Victor Blackwell set MD record 257 Yds & 3 TD. Backup OLu QB Mike Markovsky had 4 TD. Video by Jonathan Khamis, OCVarsity.com

Tustin's 5 INT overwhelm Canyon

Anthony Wilkerson was great as usual (3 TD, 142 Yds) but the Tustin's defense allowed only 8 pts. They intercepted Canyon QB Beau Perry 5 times. He was picked twice by Avery Lynch & Dominic Coulter picked one for a TD. Jonathan Khamis, OCVarsity.com

O.C. Top 10 heading into league

The O.C. top 10 schools are counted down heading into league play. Which schools made the cut this week? Where did La Habra land?

A Classic: La Habra vs. San Clemente

In one of the best high school games you'll ever see, La Habra defeats San Clemente 29-28. Josh Quezada scored 3 TD on 249 Yds rushing & Dominick Sierra had an INT TD return for 100 yds. David Espino scored 2 TD as well. Jonathan Khamis,

Los Al's Richardson rushes past Narbonne

Junior Nick Richardson of Los Alamitos rushed for two touchdowns, 296 yards, on 36 carries. The Griffins defense allowed one touchdown and have only allowed opponents 19 points all season.

Luke Gane feature on California Life

Hey guys, if you missed it, my Luke Gane feature ran on California Life this past weekend. Check it out here:

http://www.californialifehd.com/segments/luke-gane

Dana Hills surprises and dominates Newport Harbor AND Pee Wee Football!

The Dolphins took #10 Newport Harbor out in the 1st quarter outscoring them 17-0. Whiteside & Whitaker were no match for Dana Hills' defense as they recorded six sacks.

La Habra no match for Los Alamitos defense

#4 Los Alamitos proved their worth defeating #8 La Habra 28-13. The Griffins defense recorded 4 sacks and an INT. Shaquille & Nick Richardson combined for 3 TD. Highlights & Interviews with coaches & Nick Richardson.

Too many distractions for Lakers?

It only comes around once a year, and it's time for the Lakers to face the media. Odom answers questions regarding his wedding, Kobe takes batting practice, and Artest cites code of conduct policies.

Santa Margarita dedicates inaugural hockey season to former students killed in crash

The Eagles inaugural hockey season was dedicated to the memory of former students Zachary Raffety and Mark Motley who were killed in a car crash this Spring. Banners were hung, and jerseys were given to their parents.

Luke Gane & family honor Servite

Servite's head coach Troy Thomas was honored and received a plaque before the Edison and Servite game. This was a way of thanking Servite for donating their proceeds from last year's game, as Luke battled his illness.

#3 Edison's defense stops #1 Servite

In a highly anticipated game, Edison defeats Servite 23-9. The Friars were unable to score an offensive touchdown as the Chargers defense suffocated their attack. Interviews with coaches & players.

Newport celebrates with bell vs. Corona Del Mar

Newport Harbor took out Corona Del Mar with ease 37-6. The Sailors played nearly flawless football, as Whitaker rushed for 136 Yds and a TD. Cecil Whiteside provided a TD as well as bone crushing hit.

Servite gears up for big showdown vs Edison

#1 Servite takes on #3 Edison Friday night and the Friars are playing their best ball. Their offense is led by QB Cody Fajardo and RB Chris Nicholls. The D is controlled by Karifi Taula & Michael Marcoux.

Servite escapes Crespi

The Friars hold on to their 31-0 lead they had at the half and beat Crespi 38-28. The Celts outscored Servite 28-7 in the 2nd half, but Chris Nicholls' 3 TD and Michael Marcoux's 2 INT were enough to hold off Crespi.

Thoughts on USC vs. Ohio State

Wow, what a final drive. With USC down 15-10 in the 4th quarter, true freshman quarterback Matt Barkley was thrown into the wolves.

Winning your first game at home against San Jose State is one thing, but putting together a winning drive in front of over 100,000 rabid fans at the horseshoe in Columbus is a whole different ballgame.

The Trojans were able to eat much of the clock in an 86-yard drive that saw Barkley complete the smart passes he needed to make, while Joe McKnight did the rest.

McKnight was highly touted coming out of high school. He was supposed to pick up right where Reggie Bush left off, but for one reason or another, he hasn't been able to live up to the hype. That was until Saturday.

He channeled his inner Reggie Bush, and eluded Ohio State tacklers to rip the hearts out of the Buckeye faithful.

Barkley only threw five passes in the final drive, while completing three of them, but the key is that he didn't make any mistakes. Unfortunately for Matt Barkley, he did suffer a sore shoulder during the game. It occurred during the 3rd quarter after a big hit, but he was still able to put together the winning drive in the 4th.

Barkley's shoulder is still giving him some problems, so it's unknown at this time if he will start tomorrow as the Trojans take on Washington. USC has a good back up option in Aaron Corp, but if Barkley is close to 100%, it would be tough for Pete Carroll not to play him.

Finally, I believe the media has overblown Barkley's role in the Trojan drive in the 4th quarter. I mean it's the easy story to go with. The golden child, former high school player of the year, starting with USC and leading his team to victory, but Joe McKnight was the real reason the Trojans won that game.

Edison's Viles sets school record vs. Dana Hills

QB Matt Viles set an Edison school record with 457 yards passing, beating Dana Hills 34-17, as the Chargers shut out the Dolphins in the second half. Viles had 3 TD while Dana Hills' Chris Kearney scored two. Jonathan Khamis, OCVarsity.com, 9-17-09

Garden Grove player Kevin Telles' final game

Garden Grove High School's Kevin Telles passed away after playing against Westminster on 9/11. Included is footage of his final game, and interviews with his teammate and coach.

Marquez pops speed bag

Juan Maneul "Dinamita" Marquez destroys a speed bag preparing for his fight against Floyd Mayweather in a public workout outside the Kodak Theater in Hollywood. Interview with Marquez.

Floyd Mayweather talkin' trash

In a no holds barred interivew Floyd "Money" Mayweather talks about his upcoming pay per view fight against Juan Marquez in a public workout outside Kodak Theater in Hollywood.

Middlebrooks runs through Tesoro

Fountain Valley and Kyle Middlebrooks took over in the 2nd half outscoring Tesoro 22-0. Middlebrooks scored 3 TD as his defense forced 3 Tesoro turnovers in the 1st half. Interviews with coaches & Middlebrooks.

Canyon scores in final possession to beat Western

The Comanches once again find themselves with an opportunity to win the game with seconds remaining as they score in their final possession to beat Western 17-14. Canyon held Western scoreless in the 2nd half.

From Hospital Bed to Football Field: Luke Gane's Inspirational Journey

Luke Gane was diagnosed with aplastic anemia before the 2008 season. He underwent chemotherapy and needed a bone marrow transplant if he wanted to live. Sure enough, one of his twin brothers was the correct match. Luke is alive today because of his younger brother Jacob. He's now healthy and back on the field playing for Huntington Beach Edison High School.