KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
RIO HONDO — Two years ago, Rio Hondo leaned on their defense, while their offense did some growing up. Last year, the Bobcats were fueled by their offense and saw their defense grow up before our eyes.
Turn the page to 2018 and the Bobcats have a bevy of experience on both sides of the ball, six return on both offense and defense and have their sights on a third straight district title.
“Last week was a slow down version of what we do, and really just teaching the kids what we do and getting them in the right spots,” said Rio Hondo head coach Rocky James. “Once we were able to get some shoulder pads on, the kids were getting more into it and over the last two days the kids have really stepped up and that is a great thing to see.”
Rio Hondo will look to Josiah Ortega to direct the offense this fall. Ortega played safety last season, but is familiar with the QB position and had a strong off season where he displayed full control of the offense.
Ortega will look to the speedy Frank Hernandez and quick footed Cross Gonzalez at the wide receiver position. Both Hernandez and Gonzalez have experience in big games and will be two premier weapons for Rio Hondo through the air.
Senior running back Danny Vasquez also returns to the offense and will be the workhorse in the backfield. Vasquez is arguably one of the top backs in the Valley and is eager to cap off a strong career after a rough junior season that was plagued by injuries.
Senior Adrian Torres is also returning from an injury last season and has made a full recovery. Torres will provide the offense with his versatility.
“Last year we had so many weapons and at the start of the year, the offense was ahead of the defense, now this year on both sides we have experience and we can see it,” said James. “I really like what Josiah is doing at QB and we know what we’re getting from Danny, we have him (Danny) healthy and we’re looking forward to him having a great season.”
Defensively, hard hitting sophomore Joey Ortega is back at the linebacker position. Joey is primed for another strong year and will anchor the defense.
As a freshman Joey amassed 142 tackles and was named the Valley Morning ALL-STAR new comer of the year while also being named all state. Teaming up with Joey will be Gabriel Martinez. The two will provide a strong 1-2 punch while Troy Macias and Derek Castellanos will provide the push up front along the defensive line.
“We have a strong group of linebackers we’re really excited about that. Our front will be strong, and I think our defense will be just fine, we moved some kids around and they’re doing a great job, we have always been an aggressive defense and this year will no different.” James said.
Rio Hondo will host Brownsville Lopez on Friday in their first scrimmage of the year. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m.