Backpack safety tips for kids and teens
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By Alison Stanton
On Sept. 17, the American Occupational Therapy Association is holding its annual National School Backpack Awareness Day. The day is designed to help teach students, parents, educators and others how to stay protected from back pain caused by heavy backpacks.
As far as Maria Perparos is concerned, people should be worried with this issue daily. Her sons, Damon, 10, and Jacob, 16, began complaining about backpack-related aches and pains when they were in elementary school.
“Every year it’s been bad after third grade,” the Chandler mom says. “They have sore shoulders all the time.”
In her sons’ cases, it’s not the actual backpack, but the many things they have to carry to and from school inside them that’s causing the pain and problems.
“These big binders and books that they carry around are the issue,” Perparos says.
• www.nsc.org/safety_home/Safety Observances/Documents/Back %20to%20School%202014/BackpackSafety-Tips.pdf What’s inside
Parents who are wondering if their child’s backpack is too heavy should do a couple of things, Young says. First, they should look at their child from one side while he or she has the backpack on.
“If the child has a hunched forward posture, it’s a clue that the backpack is way too heavy,” he says.
HEAVY BOOKS AND BINDERS: Dr. Lyle Young, a spine surgeon from Sonoran Spine in Gilbert, says neck, shoulder and back pain that is caused by heavy backpacks is common in kids and teens
Submitted photo
Dr. Lyle Young, a spine surgeon at Sonoran Spine in Gilbert, says backpack-related aches and pains are very common.
“It is absolutely a problem, but I also see it as a chance for parents to intervene early and set up their kids with good habits that can last them a lifetime, and teach them the importance of what I call good spine hygiene and why it’s important to have good posture and carry weight properly.”
When kids and teens start to complain of neck, shoulder or back pain, the likely culprits are backpacks, Young says.
To help keep kids from developing backpack-related aches and pains, Young says the backpack should be no more than 15 to 20 percent of a child’s weight. This allows for the backpack to get a bit heavier as the child grows older, he notes.
Parents should also try lifting the backpacks from time to time.
“If it’s too heavy for you to lift, it’s too heavy for your child.”
In addition, although Young knows that a lot of teens prefer to sling their backpacks over just one shoulder, he says parents really need to encourage them to wear it properly over both shoulders.
“They need to wear the load symmetrically, and as close to the axis of the spine as possible. Wearing it on just one side will cause posture changes as well as aches and pains,” he says, adding that the heaviest books should be loaded into the back of the backpack, so they are closest to the spine.
In terms of the size of the backpack, Young says it should not be any bigger than three-fourths of the size of the child’s back from the shoulder blades to the waist. The straps of the backpack should also be padded and wide, and adjusted so it can sit up as high as possible on the child’s back.
“Wearing it lower will lead to the forward flex posture,” he says.
In general, kids and teens who are lugging backpacks that are too heavy will typically mention feeling discomfort in
When
their shoulders, neck and lower back.
“If they start complaining about pain in any of these areas, parents’ ears should perk up,” he says.
In addition to making sure their child is carrying a properly fitted backpack that is not too large for his or her frame, Young says parents need to go through the backpack from time to time to help weed out unneeded items.
“If they can’t unload at least some of their books, then parents can help them determine what they really need, and help them parse down the load,” he says.
For schools that allow them, rolling backpacks are a good option, Young says, as is encouraging a child to carry at least some of the books in his or her arms.
In most cases, Young says, if a child or teen is feeling pain primarily in the axial or center midline of the body, lightening the load and wearing the backpack properly should solve the problem.
“If the child is experiencing arm pain on one or more sides, it could mean that the backpack is causing pressure on the nerves, so in this case the parents should arrange for the child to see their primary care physician or spine provider.”
Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at Alison@SanTanSun.com.
Resources
• http://kidshealth.org/parent/positive/ learning/backpack.html
• www.aota.org/Conference-Events/BackpackSafety-Awareness-Day.aspx
kids and teens start to complain of neck, shoulder or back pain, the likely culprits are backpacks, Young says.
6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
Arizona Railway Museum, 12 p.m.4 p.m. Visit Chandler’s railway museum at Tumbleweed Park. The Arizona Railway Museum was founded and incorporated in 1983 as a nonprofit, educational and historical organization. The museum is dedicated to the railways of Arizona and the Southwest. Arizona Railway Museum, 330 E. Ryan Rd., Chandler. Display yard and building free; display cars $2 per person or $5 per family/group. (480) 833-4353, (480) 831-6520, www.azrymuseum.org.
6 Intro to Vegetarian Cooking for Kids!, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Kids can learn to cook gluten-free and vegetarian dishes, and mostly organic, too. Ages 5-7.
Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $6; Nonresident: $9. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
8, 15, 22, 29
The Teen Scene, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Hang out with friends, play games, grab a spot to study, use a laptop, or just munch on some snacks. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29
Tumbleweed Tots, 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. This indoor play area is designed for children ages 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $2; Nonresident fee: $3. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
9, 16, 23, 30
Family Story Time, 10 a.m.-10:30 a.m. The whole family is welcome for this story time featuring favorite stories and songs. Preschoolers 3-5 years old, toddlers 1836 months. Downtown Library Copper Room (former City Council chambers), 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
Family Storytime, 10:15 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Join Ms. Trish for stories, fingerplays, songs and bubbles. Toddlers 18-36 months, preschoolers 3-5 years old.
Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
Family Storytime, 6:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Enjoy stories, songs and fingerplays for the whole family with books, flannel board stories and puppets. Toddlers 18-36 months, preschoolers 3-5 years old, school age 6-8 years old. Basha Library Programming Room, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
Family Storytime, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Bring the whole family out for books, singing and dancing at this lively storytime. Hamilton Library Programming Room, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org
9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
Tumbleweed Tumble Tots, 9 a.m.11 a.m. This indoor play area is designed for children ages 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $2; Nonresident fee: $3. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
10, 17, 24
Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for children to learn in a fun, interactive setting. Chandler Fashion Center teamed up with National Geographic Kids to create activities and games that focus on discovery through play. Chandler Fashion Center, in the Gap wing near the Food Court, 3111 W Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Open to the public, no fee. (480) 812-8488, www.ShopChandlerFashionCenter.com/ KidsClub/.
10, 24
Rhythm & Rhyme, 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Join the group for an exciting time with singing, dancing and instrument playing. Ages 0-5. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
11, 18, 25
LEGO Club, 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. The library supplies the LEGO. You supply the
imagination! Ages 5-12. Downtown Library Copper Room (former City Council chambers), 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
12
Friday Feeding Frenzy! 3:30 p.m.4 p.m. Join the EEC staff on the first and third Friday of each month for a live animal feeding. Meet the animals in the nature center and learn about their diets. Stick around and watch the animals be fed. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
13
Little Explorers for Kids, 2 p.m.
“Who am I?” Similar to 20 questions, children will ask “Yes” or “No” questions that will provide clues as to which animal they are wearing on their back. From lizards and snakes, to skunks and bobcats, kids will learn how to ask the right questions to help them ID their critter. Meet inside the Nature Center for this unique play on questions for clues. SanTan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek. $6 per vehicle. www.maricopa.gov/parks/santan.
Meet the Creature! 11 a.m.11:45 a.m. In this interactive program, children will get up close and personal with live animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Registration required. Children ages 2-12 must be accompanied by a paid adult. Instructor: Lisa Limbert of Lisa’s Creatures and East Valley. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $6. Nonresident fee: $9. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
Southwest Storytime, 10 a.m.11:30 a.m. Join the EEC as it welcomes author Conrad J. Storad of “Monsters in the Rocks.” A reading of the book will be followed with an activity and a book signing. Registration required. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
14
Mid-Autumn Chinese Dance Festival, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. At the first Arizona Chinese Dance and Art Festival, the audience will enjoy various ethnic, regional and folk dances and costumes. Music will be performed on various traditional musical instruments, and art and handcraft will be displayed in the lobby. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $15. (602) 490-8613, www.chandlercenter.org.
17
Family Night at the TRC, 5:30 p.m.7 p.m. The first and third Wednesdays of the month enjoy a variety of different recreational activities and entertainment. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Youth $2 resident, $3 nonresident; teens $3 resident, $5 nonresident. (480) 782-2908, www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime.
LEGO Club, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Come to the LEGO Club and let your imagination take flight. The library supplies the LEGO and you supply the creativity. Ages 5-12. Hamilton Library Programming Room, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org
18
Community Nights in the Courtyard, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Family fun the third Thursday of the month. Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2730, www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime.
Sonoran Sunset Series, 6 p.m.-7 p.m.
Visit the Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park for this free lakeside entertainment series good for the whole family. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
19
Chandler Art Walk, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. The Art Walk provides a fun family atmosphere where you can browse the many different types of art available from our talented artists. It’s a monthly event featuring local artists and musicians, and is a great opportunity to visit all of the unique establishments in downtown Chandler. Every third Friday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Downtown Chandler welcomes more than 50 local artists to the historic square. All artists must go through a jury process to
be accepted in the Art Walk. Only fine art and fine craft submissions will be considered. Downtown Chandler. Free. www.chandlerartwalk.com.
Meet the Creature! 4 p.m.-4:45 p.m. In this interactive program, children will get up close and personal with live animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Registration required. Children ages 2-12 must be accompanied by a paid adult. Instructor: Lisa Limbert of Lisa’s Creatures and East Valley, Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $6. Nonresident fee: $9. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
20
Bugology, 1 p.m.-2 p.m. There are believed to be between 6 and 10 million species of bugs. What would the world be like without them? Explore the world of insects and arachnids. Discover just how important insects are and learn about their traits with live examples of insects and arachnids from around the state, country and world. Ages 7 and older. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $3; Nonresident fee; $5. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
Lantern Making, 12 p.m.-1 p.m. This program is a fun way to spend the day creating different kinds of lanterns— either jar lanterns or paper mache lanterns. A $3 supply fee is due the first day of class. Ages 6-12. Snedigar Recreation Center Room 502, 4500 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $6. Nonresident fee: $9. (480) 782-2640, https://classregistration.chandleraz.gov/ registrationmain.sdi.
Read to Dogs, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Following Doggy Storytime, read to dogs. Preschoolers 3-5 years old, school age 68 years old, tweens 9-11 years old. Downtown Library Copper Room (former City Council chambers), 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. Registration required. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
See Calendar, Page 4
21
Sonoran Storytime and Crafttime, 9 a.m. Sonoran Storytime is a wonderful way for kids to learn about the amazing desert. Bring snacks, water, an imagination and be ready to have some fun. Meet inside the Nature Center. SanTan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek. $6 per vehicle. www.maricopa.gov/parks/santan.
Play-Well TEKnologies-Engineering Fundamentals Using LEGO, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Students explore concepts in physics, architecture, mechanical and structural engineering, from Gear Cars to Battletracks. The engineer-designed curriculum challenges students to reach higher levels of engineering comprehension while having fun. The instructor/supply fee of $25 is due to the instructor on the first day of class, checks only. Ages 8-12. Snedigar Recreation Center Room 517, 4500 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $7. Nonresident fee: $12. (480) 782-2640, https://classregistration. chandleraz.gov/registrationmain.sdi.
21
Boone Family Band, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. The jazz ensemble features harpist Christina Vivona and trombonist Rob Boone, along with their sons, bassist, Jesse, and drummer, Corey. Crowne Plaza San Marcos Resort Conference Room, One San Marcos Place, Chandler. $15. free for children younger than 18. (480) 620-3941, www.azclassicjazz.org.
22
LEGO Club, 4 p.m.-5 p.m. The library supplies the LEGO, you supply the imagination. Ages 5-12. Basha Library Programming Room, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
24
Bugology, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. p.m. Explore the world of insects and arachnids. Discover just how important insects are and learn about their traits with live examples of insects and arachnids from around the state, country and world. Ages 7 and older. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $3; Nonresident fee; $5. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
27
Butterfly and Dragonfly Bash!, 9 a.m.12 p.m. This special event celebrates these beautiful insects through guided walks, hands-on crafts and presentations. Walks are approximately 15 minutes in duration and the terrain is easy. Don’t miss this fun-filled, family-friendly special event. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
“Frozen” Fun, 9:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Is your little one in love with the movie, “Frozen?” Role play, imagination, movement, games, prizes, all inspired by the movie. Discover what special powers make your little Elsa unique and special in every way. Dress in your favorite princess attire and bring water. Snacks will be provided. A $30 instructor fee, cash or check, is due to the instructor on the first day of class. Ages 7-10. Snedigar Recreation Center Room 502, 4500 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $8. Nonresident fee: $11. (480) 782-2640, https://classregistration.chandleraz.gov/ registrationmain.sdi.
While SanTan Sun News-area schools have ruled the football landscape for more than a decade, it has been one team doing most of the heavy lifting—Hamilton High School.
For the last five years, however, there’s been some stiff competition in Chandler High School. The Wolves’ highly recruited senior quarterback and junior running back serve together as the engine in one of the most dynamic and exciting offenses in high school football.
The Basha High School is making waves as well. Welcoming a new coach and starting a sophomore at quarterback, the Bears have high hopes for 2014 after getting to the second round of the Division I playoffs l ast year.
Things were not easy for the Perry Pumas in their first season in Division I. However, coach Preston Jones’ senior quarterback has returned, and the Pumas once-young core of players has grown together. This is the best class the Pumas have had in their young existence, and they hope that will manifest into a winning season—and maybe even a playoff berth.
The kings of Chandler and high school football in Arizona, the Hamilton Huskies, are slightly under the radar in 2014—a first for coach Steve Belles and his crew. No one should be sleeping on the Huskies, though. They boast the best defensive line in Arizona and Belles’ offense looks to be much faster with the return of injured running back and wide receiver Kyeler Burke.
No team in Chandler, though, has a richer history of success than the Seton Catholic Sentinels. Revenge is on the minds of the players and coach Rex Bowser as they look to return to the top of the Division IV mountain.
The Wolves, Bears, Pumas, Huskies and Sentinels will look to light up Friday nights, and make their respective hometowns proud.
Hamilton Huskies
SPONSORED BY: SCORPION CROSSFIT
There has been a mystique about Hamilton football since the turn of the century and they have lived up to it, going to 11 state championship games and winning seven of them.
In each season, the Huskies have been one of the favorites to win it all, but 2014 is slightly different as Hamilton is ranked outside of the top three in the state in numerous preseason rankings. Those rankings may need to be revisited as Hamilton made a statement in game one of their season on Aug. 22.
It took seven games for the Hamilton Huskies to score 29 points in a game in 2013. In 2014, it took two quarters.
The Huskies jumped out to an early lead at Sandra
Perry Pumas
Perry High School
Head coach: Preston Jones
1919 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert
www.phsfb.com
2014 record: 1-0
Day O’Connor and never looked back as Hamilton routed the Falcons 43-7 in each team’s season opener.
Hamilton was led by junior running back Kyeler Burke, who ran for 90 yards on seven carries and scored a touchdown as well as catching eight passes for 131 yards and a touchdown as the Hamilton offense was on point early and often.
Senior quarterback James Sosinski had surgeon-like accuracy, going 11 for 13 for 133 yards and a touchdown pass to tight end Luc Gauthier.
Junior quarterback Travis Lockhart played the second half of the game to get some good experience for the rest of the season, but the Huskies’ offense was not the
In 2013, things did not go as well as coach Preston Jones would have liked in the Perry Pumas’ first season in Division I. The undermanned Pumas’ went 2-8, including 0-5 in their division. The Pumas’ lost junior quarterback Austin Nightingale to a season-ending injury to boot.
Well, those struggles didn’t carry over in their first game of 2014, as the Pumas ran all over the Tucson Sunnyside Blue Devils for a 53-18 win on Aug. 29.
The Pumas’ got out fast, and never took their foot off the gas, as the Pumas’ outscored the Blue Devils 27-0 after halftime.
The Pumas’ started scoring early in the first quarter as Brock Heffron ran for a touchdown to give Perry their first score of the season.
Sunnyside went down the field and scored, but missed the extra point and the Pumas’ held on to the lead 7-6.
Only 38 seconds after Sunnyside’s touchdown, the Pumas’ now-healthy senior quarterback Nightingale raced 52 yards for a touchdown and a 14-6 Pumas lead.
Perry expanded on their lead with an Austin Bull field goal in the second quarter before Sunnyside would find the end zone again
evening’s best story.
Defensively, the Huskies were their normal dominant selves as senior Caleb Peart teamed with junior Garrett Rand to lead the defensive performance that limited Sandra Day O’Connor.
The Hamilton front four on defense terrorized Falcons quarterback Bailin Markridge all evening, giving him no time to throw, and limiting the Falcons to only 30 yards rushing in the game.
The Huskies capped their scoring binge and dominant defensive performance late in the third quarter with junior defensive back JJ Parson’s interception return for a touchdown.
and cut the Pumas’ lead to 17-12.
Sunnyside helped the Pumas’ later in the second quarter, though, as they snapped the ball out of the end zone on a punt attempt, giving Perry a safety and two points. That was before Nightingale scored his second rushing touchdown of the evening, this time from six yards out. It gave the Pumas’ a 26-12 lead.
Sunnyside scored their final touchdown of the game with only seconds left on the clock in the second quarter on a 25-yard touchdown throw, but things would be all Perry after that.
Nightingale threw three touchdown passes in the second half, to go along with his two touchdown runs, accounting for five of the Pumas’ touchdowns on the evening. However, the Pumas’ defense was the second-half story.
The Pumas’ forced turnovers on multiple Sunnyside possessions and held the Blue Devils scoreless in the second half, setting up the Pumas’ offense with short fields that let Nightingale and company get to work.
The Pumas’ scoring was capped off by junior quarterback Gabe Tomaszewski, as Perry’s offense had an easy time getting points in their first game of the season.
There is unfinished business for many within the Chandler High Wolves football program, and maybe no one has more pressure on them than highly recruited senior quarterback Bryce Perkins. Although they struggled early, the Wolves found a way to scrape out a 28-24 win over the Centennial High School Coyotes on Aug. 29.
Things did not start well for the Wolves, as they fumbled the opening kickoff, and their young defense was immediately put in a precarious position.
The Coyotes’ talented running back Dedrick Young made them pay with a 20-yard touchdown run.
Things weren’t all that great for the Wolves’ high-octane offense either, as Centennial held Chandler to zero first downs in the first quarter of their match up, and dug themselves a 10-0 hole as unrest began to set in amongst the Chandler faithful.
Basha Bears
The defense tightened up though and the offense found their legs, and things started to turn quickly for Perkins and the Wolves offense, which just has too much talent to be held down for long.
Perkins found junior receiver N’Keal Harry for a touchdown, cutting the Wolves’ deficit to 10-7 before the half, and giving the Wolves’ offense a little confidence.
Perkins showed his running prowess in the second half; as the Wolves took a 14-10 lead on the quarterbacks 34-yard touchdown run in the third quarter.
The Wolves defense set up the next touchdown, as they recovered a Centennial fumble, and Perkins found senior wide receiver Danny Mahan for a touchdown as the Wolves extended their lead to 21-10.
Centennial made a quarterback change and found their running game again as they would regain the
The Chandler Basha Bears started their new head coach Gerald Todd’s career the best way possible—with a 31-23 win over the Desert Vista Thunder.
This is not just a new era for the Bears, in terms of a coaching change. It will try to replace the offensive firepower that graduated quarterback Zach Werlinger provided, and in his first test, sophomore signal caller Ryan Kelley did just that.
Kelley accounted for 28 of the Bears 31 points, throwing for two touchdowns, both to wide receiver J.D. Alexander, and running for two other scores as the Bears won a hard fought, back-and-forth battle with the Thunder.
The game did not start the way Kelley wanted, as he was sacked on his first drop back of the game by Thunder standout Cade Van Raaphorst, who also intercepted a Kelley pass and returned it for a touchdown.
It was the Bears’ defense that set the tone for the offense early, though. After exchanging punts on their first five possessions,
lead over the Wolves 24-21, but Perkins would not be denied to start the season.
The Wolves would drive down the field as Perkins relied heavily on senior receiver Justin Jan. He connected with Jan on what would prove to be the deciding score for the Wolves as they fended off the final Centennial drive of the night with a sack and forced fumble by Kalif Roberts to help the Wolves escape with a win.
the Bears’ Adrian Rodriguez intercepted a Desert Vista pass to help set up Kelley’s first touchdown run, a 16-yard scamper in the end zone.
Kelley’s second touchdown run was also set up by the Bears’ defense, as Caleb McCray intercepted another Desert Vista pass, and Kelley and the Bears capitalized.
Desert Vista came out in the second half though and take a brief lead, going on a long scoring drive and took a 16-14 lead, but Desert Vista’s defense would not let that stand long.
Brandon Yamomoto was a menace all game, with three pass break ups and a blocked punt as the Bears clung to a 21-16 lead, setting up Kelley’s second touchdown pass of the game to Alexander, extending the Bears’ lead, and basically shutting the door on any hope the Thunder had for getting back into the game.
One more highlight for the Bears was kicker Cade Thompson’s 50-yard field goal with less than 30 seconds left in the game to give the Bears some breathing room in Todd’s first career win.
Chandler
www.setoncatholic.org/athletics/ football.cfm 2014 record: 1-0
Seton Catholic High School has been one of the dominant forces in the lower divisions for the past decade, with a long-standing tradition of exceptional quarterback play and excellent two way players.
Last season ended abruptly in the state semi-finals after senior starting quarterback Kyle Johnson fell ill before the game and could not play, leading to Zach Wade getting a shot to play. While things did not work out in that game, it gave Wade and the Sentinels a brief view of what he could do.
On Aug. 29, everyone saw his talent. Seton Catholic jumped out to a 28-3 lead, and held off a furious Estrella Foothills rally, winning 35-24 in their season opener.
The Sentinels’ defense got the scoring started, as twoway senior star George Wolter returned a Falcons turnover 20 yards for a touchdown, paving the way for the Sentinels early scoring onslaught.
Senior running back Antonio Campanella ran for a 26yard touchdown and the Sentinels raced out to a 14-0 first
quarter lead.
The second quarter saw the Sentinels and Falcons each struggle to get anything going offensively, as the Falcons would be limited to a field goal. Wade and the offense were able to tack on another touchdown late in the second quarter, as Wade found Wolter for a 5-yard touchdown pass, the first for Wade on the season and take a 21-3 lead into halftime.
Campanella would add another short touchdown run in the third quarter, as the Sentinels appeared to put the game away, extending their lead to 28-3 heading into the fourth.
The Falcons would cut the lead to 28-10 early in the fourth but the Sentinels responded, as Wade found Wolter for another touchdown and a 35-10 lead.
Seton’s defense would make things a little uncomfortable, as the Falcons were able to connect on two long touchdown passes on back to back possessions, and cut the Sentinels lead to 35-24 with under two minutes to go, but it was too little too late, as the Sentinels held on for their first win of the season.
HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
HAMILTON:
Aug. 2243-7 (w)
Aug. 29Bye
Sept. 5at Brophy Prep
Sept. 12at Pinnacle
Sept. 19Liberty (NV) ★
Sept. 26Mountain Pointe
Oct. 2Chandler
Oct. 10at Basha
Oct. 17at Highland
Oct. 31Perry
Homecoming = ★
SETON:
Aug. 21Globe (scrimmage, score N/A)
Aug. 29Estrella Foothills 35-24 (w)
Sept. 5at Maricopa
Sept. 12at Snowflake
Sept. 19Cortez
Sept. 26at Coronado
Oct. 3Florence ★
Oct. 10at Coolidge
Oct. 17Combs
Oct. 24at Chino Valley
Oct. 31Rio Rico
CHANDLER:
Aug. 29at Centennial 28-24 (w)
Sept. 5Buena
Sept. 12at Valor Christian
Sept. 19at Mountain Pointe
Sept. 26Cesar Chavez ★
Oct. 2at Hamilton
Oct. 10at Gilbert
Oct. 17at Perry
Oct. 24at Basha
Oct. 31Highland
Seth Cox is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.
HIGH TECH TEETH
PERRY:
Aug. 29Sunnyside 53-18 (w)
Sept. 5at Sandra Day O’Connor
Sept. 12Gila Ridge ★
Sept. 19Mountain View
Sept. 26Mountain Ridge
Oct. 2at Basha
Oct. 10at Highland
Oct. 17Chandler
Oct. 24at Gilbert
Oct. 31at Hamilton
BASHA:
Aug. 29at Desert Vista 31-23 (w)
Sept. 5Centennial ★
Sept. 12at Cesar Chavez
Sept. 19at Pinnacle
Sept. 26at Westview
Oct. 2Perry
Oct. 10Hamilton
Oct. 17at Highland
Oct. 24Chandler
Oct. 31at Gilbert
times 7 p.m.
Submitted photo byAdam Rodriguez
Chandler youth chases pigskin glory
By Tim J. Randall
Amidst the college football hype of December and January—particularly this year with the new national championship playoffs—a bowl bonanza of a different sort will occur at the site of the Capital One Bowl in Orlando, Florida.
On Jan. 3, 13-year-old Chandler football star Nicolas Saro will take part in the Offense-Defense Football Youth All-American Bowl. He is an eighth-grade student at San Tan Junior High School.
The championship Youth All-American game is a 5-year-old event that comprises a weeklong string of festivities for the Offense-Defense Sports brand, which has run full-contact football instructional camps for more than 45 years across the country.
The week from Dec. 30 to Jan. 4 culminates in the ninth annual Offense-Defense All-American Bowl, an all-star football game showcasing 88 of the top high school seniors in the country, according to Offense-Defense officials.
Nicolas, a perfervid football player and fan, took part in an Offense-Defense camp over the summer with the goal of earning a trip to the Youth Bowl in January.
“Last year, we attended a camp in Los Angeles and he was ranked highly,” says his father, John.
“This year the camp was in San Diego and he achieved MVP and an Offense-Defense All-American.”
The road to that honor, though, was not an easy screen pass for a first down. For four grueling days, from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Nicolas competed in full-contact drills in his 13-14 year age group to beat out 13 other top quarterback prospects.
“He scored 8.35 out of 10 to gain the top spot. We were so proud of him,” John says.
The MVP tag came with the added bonus of the invite to the bowl game.
“I am so happy to attend and compete to see how I stack up against that high level of competition,” Nicolas says.
And compete he will. More than 2,000 athletes will converge on Orlando to demonstrate their skills and play the game they love. From arrival on Dec. 30 to game day on Jan. 3, the youth prospects will showcase their talents for coaches, former collegiate and NFL players and fans. The players will practice as if they were playing in the Capital One Bowl with hard workouts for multiple days and then two televised games.
“The opportunity to play is just so exciting,” Nicolas explains.
He is already preparing—more accurately, he is dedicated and pushing himself hard.
“I love football and am working hard every day to improving my game,” says Nicolas.
Since putting on his first helmet at age 8, the young signal caller has played for the Chandler Wolverines, a local youth team part of the established and respected National Youth Sports organization.
“He is so serious about football,” John says. Yet, the game always comes after faith, family and education.
Nicolas has long-term goals beyond the big game in January.
“First I want to be a top high school quarterback, and then work hard to get a scholarship to play football and get a great education,” he says.
True to his word, Nicolas is working assiduously for the
upcoming Wolverines season, which kicks off Sept. 27. In the meantime, there are practices including working with a quarterback coach, as well as a speed, agility and conditioning trainer, according to John.
“Football is a real passion for him and he plays or practices basically year-round.”
Tim J. Randall is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.
UP AND COMER: Nicolas Saro, an eighth-grade student at San Tan Junior High School, will take part in the Offense-Defense Football Youth AllAmerican Bowl in Orlando, Florida. Submitted photo
Local intersession camps keep area students busy
By Alison Stanton
Although it might seem like the first day of school was just last week, Chandler Unified School District’s first intersession of the 2014-2015 year is coming up soon. Students will be out of school from Sept. 29, through Oct. 14, which means many area parents are looking for activities to keep their children occupied. The following camps and classes will help area students stay busy and happy:
City of Chandler
Brooke Peterson, marketing and communications coordinator for the community services and recreation department at the City of Chandler, says the City offers plenty of affordable full- and halfday intersession camps for kids 5 to 12.
“These camps engage participants in sports, arts and crafts, skits, youth development activities and special events,” Peterson says.
“Additionally, we offer partial day camps in everything from cooking, dance, LEGO, movie making, music and more for youth.”
For teenagers, Peterson says the City has four trips planned to help keep them safe and entertained; these outings include going to a roller skating rink, cosmic bowling and paint balling.
In addition, Peterson says the Tumbleweed Recreation Center will offer after-hours sports programs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from Oct. 2 to Oct. 11. The gym will stay open later on those evenings and kids can play basketball, volleyball, dodgeball and more, she says.
For more information about the intersession camps and classes, visit www.chandleraz.gov/con-
tent/intersession-camps-classes.pdf.
Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA
The Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA is also offering intersession activities for kids ranging from kindergarten to 12 years. The program is open 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Mondays through Fridays from Sept. 29 to Oct. 14. Kids who enroll in the program will be able to swim twice a week as well as participate in other fitness activities, do arts and crafts, and go on a weekly field trip to places like the Phoenix Zoo and Schnepf Farms.
The Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA is located at 1655 W. Frye Rd. in Chandler. For more information, contact Brittany Gaitan at (602) 212-6104 or bgaitan@vosymca.org
Mesa Arts Center
Students who are in the first through seventh grades will find plenty of fun camps to keep them busy at the Mesa Arts Center. Campers will enjoy drama, dance, music, puppetry and art classes taught by trained artists and educators. A ratio of one instructor to 10 campers will be maintained during all activities, which are held from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6, through Friday, Oct. 10. Each camp costs $40 per day or $180 for five, and kids must bring their own lunch and snacks. Mesa Arts Center is located at One E. Main St., in Mesa. For more information, call (480) 644-6520 or visit www.mesaartscenter.com.
Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at alison@santansun.com.
Up with Kids! recruiting students
Up With Kids! Musical Theater Academy is enrolling students ages 4-17 for its 29th season, which includes an original production of “Frostbite! A Tale of Two Sisters,” based on Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Snow Queen.”
Up With Kids! has developed the concept of “All Star Acting” in which students write their own scripts and adapt the plays so that there is a challenging part for every student.
The play has a snowy Norwegian setting with melodramatic characters. Performers will develop their singing voices with the playful, hands-on musical exercises from the Up With Kids! vocal method.
The students will practice their acting skills in fun drama games every week and then show them off during performances in May. Up With Kids! students will include cultural learning experiences in the curriculum.
The classes meet at New Life Family Church in Gilbert on Thursdays beginning Sept. 11.
For more information about how to sign up for the program, visit www.upwithkids.com or call or text Julie Fisher at (520) 307-7469. She can be reached via email at missjulie@upwithkids.com.
