Breakers handle heat, find success on field

The Laguna Beach High football team proved it could take the heat during summer ball.

With most everyone trying to somehow cope with an unusually stifling heat wave that gripped the southland the past two weeks, members of the Laguna Beach football team had been running, lifting weights and playing passing league games — seven versus seven — every day throughout the summer, most days from 1 to 8 p.m.

“We’ve learned to ignore the heat and overcome any adversity we’re faced with,” said Jimmy Nolan, who is about to embark upon his third season as head coach of the Breakers. “I believe this year’s ballclub’s camaraderie is second to none.”

Nolan said that 40 players came out for summer ball and that he expects more students once school starts.

“Everyone’s extremely excited about this year,” he said. “We had a long, busy summer playing passing league games against some of the top programs in Orange County and Los Angeles. I was impressed with our kids’ performance, as we won the majority of our games.

“As you know, we have no size — we’ll average 160 pounds — but we’re quick, tough and fly to the football every play, every game, from start to finish. Hence, we find ways to win. Good things happen because we out-work our opponents.”

While Nolan acknowledged the team looked “great as a whole,” he said three players gave outstanding performances during the summer.

“Zach Smith, who’s just a sophomore this coming season, looked outstanding at running back,” he said. “He made plays every game this summer. Zach spends all his free time at our field. He pays the price and the results are evident. Look for this kid to break some Laguna Beach rushing records by the time he graduates.

“Marshall Thomas, one of only a handful of seniors, made some big catches this summer. He has worked hard for the past eight months. He’ll be fun to watch this year, and we’re putting a lot of weight on his shoulders to carry this team.

“Charley Bowman, a junior this season, threw the ball real well. He made great decisions and showed leadership all summer, while balancing football with basketball. I’m proud of our kids that play two sports. This school is too small to not share athletes. Kudos to athletes like Charley that make this school much more competitive. I hope his example teaches everyone that playing two or three sports is a great idea.”

Nolan said that many athletes who play football also compete in basketball, baseball, volleyball or soccer at the school.

“I’d like to thank Lance Stewart for encouraging his volleyball players to play football,” Nolan said. “High school only happens once. Our athletes should play as many sports as they’re capable of, without feeling like they’ll upset one of their coaches. After all, it’s about the kids, not the coaches. We’re here to help the kids. They’re not here to help us.”

Laguna, which went 5-4-1 in 2005, opens the 2006 season on Sept. 1 against rival Corona del Mar. The twist this year is that the teams are no longer Pacific Coast League rivals, as Laguna will compete in the Orange Coast League. The Sea Kings will remain in the Pacific Coast League.

“I don’t know if Laguna Beach football has ever beaten this team,” Nolan said, unaware that the then-Artists have defeated the Sea Kings four times, but not since 1985. “We will be ready for that game. Please get out here and support our boys. They have worked real hard and it looks like we are going to be a fun team to watch.

“We expect to win league this year and make a strong showing in the playoffs. So, we need you to come to our home and away games. This school does not travel well. Get in your cars and follow this team. They deserve your support.”