Football: Passing competitions have begun

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The football season begins earlier than ever this fall, so it’s no surprise that teams have already begun their seven-on-seven competitions. I was at Granada Hills and Chaminade on Saturday, and there were some intriguing players.

Granada Hills has 6-foot-3, 215-pound junior-to-be tight end Bryson Bowman, who certainly can catch the ball. As he improves his strength and speed, he’s going to be a marked player to stop.

Westlake has lots of receivers waiting for a decision to be made at quarterback. The Warriors still haven’t come up with a replacement for Justin Moore, who gave up football and transferred to Royal. Some are hoping he changes his mind and returns to Westlake. The Warriors do have Dashon Hunt, who’s the best cornerback around.

Taft has lots of athletes, led by 6-4 safety-receiver Devon Hawkins. But the most impressive player didn’t play. That’s standout punter-kicker Jordan Dascalo, who showed his dedication by being on the sideline rooting for the skill-position players.

Chaminade continues to have a quarterback competition between transfers Brad Kaaya (Crespi) and Reggie Reed (Grace Brethen). Kaaya is a sturdy 6 feet 4. One player people are talking about around Chaminade is sophomore to be Chris Bounds, 6-4, 245 pounds, who’s going to play offensive and defensive tackle and tight end. The earth shakes when Bounds comes walking on campus.

Narbonne’s offense is out of this world with All-City quarterback Troy Williams in control. It will be fun this summer to see how defenses try to deal with the Gauchos going no huddle and in rapid fashion during seven-on-seven competitions. And they are loaded at the linebacker position, having picked up a transfer from Dominguez, Dominique Street. Next month, Narbonne could be taking a little break because the wife of Coach Manuel Douglas is due to deliver a son.

Lincoln is going to pass the ball again and again. The Tigers have plenty of receivers. A junior to be, Jose Vazquez, was making catches on Saturday. Reseda Coach Alonso Arreola said his team’s best player will be Tony Hernandez, a 6-4, 265-pound offensive lineman who’s going to be a three-year starter.

Golden Valley must figure out what to do with its best athlete, Chase Lewis, a receiver who was being used at quarterback.

Next month, there will be two major tournaments, with L.A. Valley College and Crescenta Valley each holding competitions on May 19.

And this coming week will be the announcement of the next coach at Oaks Christian. Interviews were finished on Friday.

-- Eric Sondheimer