A lot has changed since Nevada won a game, Fresno State lost a game.
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The Fresno State defense is gearing up to slow down Kent State’s run-heavy offense in Saturday’s matchup at Valley Children’s Stadium. Looking at the numbers so far this season, it’s easy to see how much Kent State favors the run game. Here are some of those stats:
- Kent State ran the ball 54 times for 295 yards in last week’s 38-10 win against Central Connecticut. Meanwhile, junior quarterback Michael Alaimo only completed 12/16 passes for 172 yards and a touchdown.
- Sophomore running back Gavin Garcia, the featured back for Kent State, has carried the ball 57 times for 238 yards and two touchdowns in the 2023 season. However, Garcia doesn’t have a single reception so far this year.
- Alaimo has completed just 35/64 passes on the season with a touchdown and three interceptions.
In his press conference this week, Kent State head coach Kenni Burns said he was proud of how his offensive line opened up lanes for the running game against Central Connecticut.
“The o-line and the running backs had a really good week of practice. We challenged them . . . demanded more out of them. It paid off on Saturday. They played harder, they played harder for longer, they played nastier. That’s what we have to do up front,” Burns said. “It was a good performance up front. They gotta grow off of it.”
Fresno State allowed only 42 rushing yards in last week’s shutout victory against Arizona State. Defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle said he was pleased with how the Bulldogs’ came out with with energy from the start against Arizona State.
“We started quickly and did a good job against the run. I believe they had 1.6 yards a carry. That sets up everything else when you can do a good job against the run like we did,” Coyle said. “And then have opportunities to get after the quarterback, which we took advantage of . . . it was a good all-around effort the by the defense.”
Sunnyside Aims To Get Back To The ‘Ship!
Happy Mother’s Day To All The Wonderful Central Valley Moms.
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Spring season heating up!
From the desk of Commissioner Alton Williams
We are thrilled to announce that enrollment is now open for the highly anticipated coaching certification program, jointly designed by Fresno Pro-Am and USA Basketball. This program has been specifically crafted to enhance the coaching skills and techniques of all coaches serving at Season 2 of the Fresno Pro-Am. Whether you are a seasoned coach or just starting your coaching journey, this program will empower you with invaluable knowledge and expertise.
The coaching certification program is entirely online, allowing you to complete it at your own pace and convenience. It comprises a comprehensive series of interactive modules that delve into various aspects of coaching, including leadership skills, effective communication, defensive game planning, and player development. These modules have been meticulously developed by experienced coaches to equip you with the essential tools required to excel as a coach.
Upon successful completion of the program, you will be awarded a coaching certification, jointly accredited by Fresno Pro-Am and USA Basketball. This certification serves as a powerful testament to your dedication to coaching excellence and sets you apart as a standout coach in the community.
We strongly encourage all current and aspiring coaches to seize this unparalleled opportunity to refine their skills and elevate their coaching prowess. By enrolling in this program, you will gain access to an exclusive network of like-minded coaches and unlock new avenues for personal and professional growth.
To enroll in the coaching certification program, please visit our website at https://community.usab.com/users/learning_plans/lbhAybKDtwoojrTHvK38Og/join_learning_plan and follow the straightforward registration process. Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot early.
Student-Athletes from several high schools across the Valley are getting special recognition for their achievements in athletics and academics.
At Buchanan High School, Bailey Bracha and Zachary Weaver were recognized as CIF Scholar Athletes Of The Year. Weaver has excelled in track-and-field while also making sure that he stays dedicated in the classroom. Bracha, a four-year varsity starter for the Bears’ soccer team, has proven her commitment in the classroom with a 4.1 GPA. She will continue her athletic and academic career at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
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Here is what Bracha had to stay about being recognized as the TRAC Female Scholar-Athlete Of The Year:
I am very honored to be receiving this recognition and representing the TRAC for the female scholar-athlete. I think both athletes coming from Buchanan is a big accomplishment and it really shows how dominant Buchanan is all across the board in all sports programs. Obviously I would not be here without a thanks and the help to many people.
I would like to start with thanking God because I would be a nobody with no identity without him. Next I would like to thank my parents because to be where I am at today, they have had to give up a lot for me. Spending weekends traveling up and down the state, and weeks traveling across the country, is no easy task. Seeing them balance not only my sports and sport events, but my siblings, truly amazed me. It takes a lot to be a parent, and it takes even more to be a great parent and my parents have mastered that. I love them so much and wouldn’t be anywhere without them.
Next, I would like to thank every single coach and player I have had along the years. All of my coaches have pushed me to be the best player I can be. Every teammate I have played with and against have pushed me and made me a more competitive player. Getting to play at the next level has been a dream of mine ever since I knew you could do what you love in college. Without the help and support I have received from my family, coaches, players, and friends, I would not be where I am today.
I am so honored to receive this award and opportunity to represent the TRAC. Getting to play for Buchanan these past few years have been the best years. Having the support from the community and fans is so ideal and without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Ar Caruthers, star student-athletes Morgan Trigueiro and Landon Almeida are honored as NWSC CIF scholar athletes of the year.
Here is what Trigueiro said about getting the honor:
It was amazing to be honored along with so many talented student athletes and to be chosen as this years top female. It really is crazy how many champions and MVP’s there were in one place. I’m so grateful the for the scholarship and the event the CIFCC put on. Also, congratulations to all the student athletes honored last night! Nobody understands what it’s like balancing everything quite like we do.
Other Valley athletes recognized as scholar athletes include Firebaugh’s Judith Coreas and Kingsburg’s Jimmy Cranford, as well as the Clovis North duo Ryan Maddox and Marissa Lucas.
