Cal-Hi Sports Insider Blog

Quick-hitting, behind-the-scenes news and notes from the CalHiSports.com staff, including previews of upcoming content and events.

FINAL CIF Regional Projections

By Mark Tennis | Published November 25, 2023

There’s no time to explain all of these placements as they have been done late on Saturday night after all results are in and the actual pairings by the CIF will be out by Sunday afternoon. We’ll have reactions to those in a full post on Sunday night.

Also, remember we don’t know which teams if any have opted out of these games. We are not official by the CIF in any way and these are done just to give folks a guide to what possibly may happen on Sunday. All of these teams are section champions. Which teams are home or away also are unknown. Every section will have home games and teams that traveled one year for a regional game are likely to be at home the following year.

Congratulations to all teams who have earned their spots on this board. Compiled as of Saturday night, Nov. 25.

TO SEE OUR FULL STATEWIDE CIF SECTION SCOREBOARD WITH HIGHLIGHTS & BREAKDOWNS FOR MANY OF THESE TEAMS, CLICK HERE.

PLEASE CHECK OUT GETTING A GOLD CLUB SUB TO THIS WEB SITE FOR ALL STATE RANKINGS, ALL OF THE UPCOMING ALL-STATE TEAMS, STATE RECORD UPDATES, STATE STAT STAR LISTS, AND MORE. TO SIGN UP, CLICK HERE.

OPEN DIVISION
Mater Dei of Santa Ana (CIFSS D1) 12-1 vs.
Serra of San Mateo (CCS Open) 12-0

DIVISION 1-AA
De La Salle of Concord (NCS Open) 10-2 vs.
Clovis North of Fresno (Central Sec D1) 13-0
Mission Viejo (CIFSS D2) 11-3 vs. Granite Hills of El Cajon (SD Open) 12-0

DIVISION 1-A
Folsom (Sac-Joaquin D1) 11-2 vs. Pittsburg 13-0 (NCS D1)
St. Bonaventure of Ventura (CIFSS D3) 11-3 vs. La Serna of Whittier (CIFSS D4) 11-3

DIVISION 2-AA
Rocklin (SJS D2) 12-1 vs. Grant of Sacramento (SJS D3) 11-2
St. Augustine of San Diego (SD D1) 10-4 vs. Orange Vista of Perris (CIFSS D5) 11-3

DIVISION 2-A
Los Gatos (CCS D1) 11-2 vs. El Cerrito (NCS D2) 11-1*
Central Valley Christian of Visalia (Central Sec D2) 13-1 vs. Del Norte of San Diego (SD D2) 11-2

DIVISION 3-AA
Acalanes of Lafayette (NCS D4) 9-4 vs. McClymonds of Oakland (Oak) 8-2*
Birmingham of Van Nuys (L.A. City Open) 11-2 vs. Simi Valley (CIFSS D6) 9-5

DIVISION 3-A
Escalon (SJS D4) 11-1 vs. Marin Catholic of Kentfield (NCS D3) 12-1
Mayfair of Lakewood (CIFSS D7) 10-3 vs. Mt. Miguel of Spring Valley (SD D4) 12-1

DIVISION 4-AA
Casa Roble of Orangvale (SJS D5) 12-1 vs. Soquel (CCS D2) 11-2
Jurupa Hills (CIFSS D8) vs. Mission Oak of Tulare (Central Sec D3) 9-5

DIVISION 4-A
Pleasant Valley of Chico (Northern Sec D2) 9-3 vs. Palma of Salinas (CCS D3) 6-7*
Rio Hondo Prep of Arcadia (CIFSS D9) 13-1 vs. Torres of Madera (Central Sec D4) 11-3

DIVISION 5-AA
Hughson (SJS D6) 10-3 vs. Miramonte of Orinda (NCS D5) 9-3
La Jolla Country Day (SD D3) 11-3 vs. Torrance (CIFSS D10) 10-4

DIVISION 5-A
Woodland Christian (SJS D7) 13-0 vs. Palo Alto (CCS D4) 8-5
Banning of Wilmington (LA City D1) 8-6 vs. Ramona of Riverside (SS D11) 9-5

DIVISION 6-AA
St. Vincent de Paul of Petaluma (NCS D6) 11-2 vs. Orland (Northern Sec D3) 11-1
Sweetwater of National City (SD D5) 7-6 BYE

DIVISION 6-A
Colusa (Northern Sec D4) 12-0 vs. South San Francisco (CCS D5) 12-1
Cerritos (CIFSS D12) 9-5 vs. Wasco (Central Sec D5) 8-5

DIVISION 7-AA
Portola (Northern Sec D5) 12-0 vs. Ferndale (NCS D7) 9-4
St. Monica of Santa Monica (CIFSS D13) 11-3 vs. Fairfax (LA City D2) 10-4

DIVISION 7-A
Lincoln of San Francisco (SF) 9-3 vs. Strathmore (Central Sec D5) 10-4
Bell Gardens (CIFSS D14) 9-5 vs. Jordan of Los Angeles (LA City D3) 11-3

Five of the Most Fun Sports-Related Things to Do in California

By Special To CalHiSports.com | Published November 22, 2023

California is the ultimate sports state. It has 21 major professional sports franchises across football, ice hockey, soccer, and other popular sports, as well as a ton of sports-related landmarks for you to check out. As a sports fan, you’re spoiled for choice, which is why visiting California should be at the top of your “to-do list.” If you already live in Cali, then that’s even better. So, what are the best sports-related activities to do in California? Let’s take a closer look.

Watch the LA Lakers

The LA Lakers are one of the most popular and successful sports franchises of all time.
When you think about the NBA, the first team that comes to mind is always the LA Lakers. With 17 NBA titles, 32 appearances in the NBA Finals, and some truly iconic players (including the likes of Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson), it’s impossible not to be in awe of the Lakers’ NBA history. This is why thousands of passionate fans head to the Crypto.com arena every season to watch the Lakers play — and you should do, too.

LA Lakers tickets typically start at around $30 but average out at around $261 per seat. If you can get your hands on a ticket to go and watch them play, you’re in for an experience of a lifetime and definitely won’t regret it.

After arriving at the arena, you should soak in the atmosphere, hang out with other fans, and even play some real money online slots on your phone after taking your seat. Usually, there’s a long buildup to NBA games as well as lots of intervals, which is why lots of Lakers’ fans play online slots in between the action.

Play Beach Volleyball

California is home to some of the world’s best beaches, including: Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, Capitola Beach, Huntington Beach.

When the sun is shining and the vibes are great, you should head down to one of these beaches to play beach volleyball with your friends. It’s a classic Californian activity to do, which is why you’ll typically see lots of people playing beach volleyball at the weekends.

Enjoy an Oracle Park Stadium Tour

Home to the San Francisco Giants, Oracle Park is an awesome stadium and a treat for any MLB fan to visit.

If you enjoy watching baseball, you should definitely try to get tickets to watch a game at Oracle Park. And if you can’t get your hands on tickets, don’t worry — go on an Oracle Park Stadium Tour instead.

During the Oracle Park Stadium Tour, you’ll get to see behind-the-scenes places where only the players go, including the dugout and trophy room. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might get to meet some San Francisco Giants players.

Head to an LA Galaxy Game

Are you a fan of soccer? If the answer is yes, you have to go and check out LA Galaxy while you’re in California. Each MLS season, LA Galaxy plays at the iconic Dignity Health Sports Park, and the average ticket price is only $45, so it’s super affordable to watch them play.

Visit a Golf Course

If you love golf, then visiting one of California’s golf courses should be a priority.
To start with, it’s recommended you go to Cypress Point at Pebble Beach, which is widely regarded as the best golf course in California. Remember to bring your ‘A’ game, though, because there are a lot of good players there.

Five Ways to Enjoy Your Passion for Sports Online

By Special To CalHiSports.com | Published November 9, 2023

With the digital revolution, enjoying your passion for sports has become easier and more exciting than ever. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the internet offers a multitude of ways to engage with your favorite sports. From catching live games to connecting with fellow enthusiasts, here are five fantastic ways to immerse yourself in the world of sports online.

Live Streaming and Highlights

The convenience of live streaming and highlight videos can’t be overstated. With platforms like YouTube and dedicated sports streaming services, you can watch your favorite teams and athletes in action.

These platforms offer a wide range of options, from full game broadcasts to condensed highlights, making it easy to stay updated and relive memorable moments. It’s like having a front-row seat to the most thrilling sports events worldwide.

Sports Betting

As an example of how the online world can complement your sports passion, let’s consider the world of sports betting. While it’s important to gamble responsibly, sports betting can add an extra thrill to the games you follow. Many reputable online sportsbooks offer a variety of betting options, including match outcomes, player statistics, and more.

If you have a keen interest, you might want to explore the top online casino to elevate your sports betting enjoyment. However, always exercise caution and ensure that you never wager more than your budget allows.

Gaming and Esports

Esports or electronic sports, have gained immense popularity in recent years. Online gaming platforms allow you to not only play sports-themed video games but also watch professional esports tournaments. You can follow your favorite teams and players as they compete in games like FIFA, NBA 2K, and Rocket League. This unique fusion of sports and technology offers a fresh and entertaining way to enjoy your passion.

Additionally, it introduces you to a new dimension of sports entertainment, where the boundaries between traditional athletics and digital prowess blur. Whether you’re competing in virtual matches or cheering for esports superstars, it’s a captivating realm that adds a modern twist to your sports enthusiasm.

Engage with Online Communities

The internet is home to countless sports forums, social media groups, and fan websites where you can interact with fellow sports enthusiasts like those through Cal-Hi Sports. Share your insights, discuss game strategies, or simply banter with like-minded fans. These online communities are a great way to stay connected and exchange views on your favorite sports, making it a more immersive experience.

Moreover, they offer a platform for staying updated with the latest news, rumors, and behind-the-scenes stories, fostering a sense of belonging within the global sports community. Whether you’re celebrating victories or commiserating over losses, these online forums provide a sense of camaraderie that enhances your sports passion.

Fantasy Sports Leagues

For those seeking a more hands-on experience, fantasy sports leagues are a great option. You can create your own virtual team, draft real-life players, and compete against others based on their actual performance. Websites and apps dedicated to fantasy sports make it easy to manage your team and track player statistics, adding a new layer of excitement to every game.

This unique blend of strategy and sports knowledge allows you to step into the shoes of a team manager, making decisions on player selections, trades, and tactics to outwit your opponents. It’s not only an engaging way to follow your favorite sports but also a way to test your sports acumen against fellow enthusiasts.

Boys BB: 2023-24 Transfer Rundown

By Ronnie Flores | Published November 7, 2023


Here’s a quick-hitting list of transfers that will impact this year’s boys basketball state rankings. It’s been a hectic off-season and we offer a rundown of where some of California’s elite players ended up, including some who left the state, and some who just transferred as recently as the past week. Look for our preseason Cal-Hi Sports state rankings on November 9. The 2023-24 season officially begins November 13. The CIF state basketball championships are scheduled to take place March 8-9, 2024. Read more…

Boys BB: Preseason FAB 50 Show

By Ronnie Flores | Published October 31, 2023

Our Managing Editor Ronnie Flores, who takes the lead on our boys basketball content as well, was an analyst and producer for the recently-released “Preseason FAB 50 Show” by Ballislife.com. The hour and a half long show broke down the boys basketball preseason FAB 50 National Team Rankings Flores produces each year (CLICK HERE to view rankings). This is the 37th consecutive season for the FAB 50, which started as the National Prep Poll by high school hall of fame journalist Doug Huff of West Virginia in 1987-88. Cal-Hi Sports Editor Mark Tennis combined forces with Huff to create the FAB 50 for the 1999-2000 season and the trio worked on it together until the conclusion of the 2011-2012 season.

The show’s other analyst is Texas scout Ani Umana and it’s hosted by former San Diego State standout and WNBA player Chelsea Hopkins.

The California teams in the preseason FAB 50 this year are defending CIF open champ North Hollywood Harvard-Westlake at No. 11, Bellflower St. John Bosco at No. 19, Santa Ana Mater Dei at No. 42, Eastvale Roosevelt at No. 44, and Chatsworth Sierra Canyon at No. 46.

Look for Flores’ Region-By-Region Top 20 Rankings (including the West Region) on November 7 and for our preseason state rankings by November 9. The 2023-24 season will be the 44th consecutive season that Cal-Hi Sports/ CalHiSports.com will provide state rankings in boys hoops.

What to Know About the Connection Between Sports Enthusiasts and Online Gambling

By Special To CalHiSports.com | Published October 4, 2023

In a world where entertainment options are endless, the relationship between sports enthusiasts and online gambling has emerged as a fascinating and intertwined phenomenon. While the ethics of gambling remain a subject of debate, there’s no denying that these two realms share a close bond, driven by mutual benefits and ever-evolving trends.

A Thrilling Partnership: Sports and Gambling

The marriage between sports and gambling has deep historical roots, with both entities often seen as kindred spirits in the world of entertainment. This enduring connection is evident in the way many websites seamlessly integrate sports betting and casino gaming. When one delves into the world of online casinos and sportsbooks, it becomes apparent that enthusiasts have a plethora of options to choose from.

Sponsorship Synergy: A Global Example

Sports events often require substantial financial backing, and this is where sponsors step in to provide the necessary support. Securing sponsors is crucial for the financial health of sports events, and casinos have emerged as prime candidates. These gambling establishments boast a vast audience of sports aficionados who frequently engage in sports betting, making them ideal partners for sporting ventures.

For instance, let’s consider top rated Australian online casinos as an example. They can successfully leverage their brand by sponsoring various sports events, creating a mutually beneficial relationship. When sports fans place bets on their favorite teams or players at these online casinos, they not only contribute to the excitement of the game but also engage more deeply with the casino brand, opening doors to a world of entertainment beyond sports.

A Profitable Fusion: Joining Forces

The convergence of casino gaming and sports betting into a unified market has proven to be a lucrative endeavor. This combination allows individuals to use real money for sports wagers, slot machines, poker, and more, all from a single online platform.

Moreover, online casinos often entice new players with generous promotions, such as depositing $1 and receiving 100 free spins in a matter of seconds, even without prior experience. Accessibility is another key advantage – anyone with an internet-connected device can partake in online casino games, allowing for flexible and convenient gameplay.

The Influence of Sports on Casino Games

Sports-themed online casinos take the gaming experience a step further, offering more immersive gameplay than traditional online venues. Players can choose from a range of options, including basketball-themed slots, roulette with a sports twist, or even blackjack adorned with their favorite team’s logo. These games allow sports fans to relish the atmosphere of a stadium while enjoying the thrill of betting from the comfort of their own homes.

Accessibility and User-Friendliness

One of the most significant advantages of online gambling is its accessibility and ease of use. Whether it’s poker, sports betting, or slot machines, these activities can be pursued from virtually anywhere with an internet connection. Unlike traditional casinos, there’s no need to dress up or adhere to specific hours of operation – online gambling is available 24/7, making it a convenient choice for enthusiasts.

Safety and Security

One of the most critical aspects of online gambling is the assurance of safety and security. Reputable online casinos employ robust encryption and security measures, subjecting themselves to regular audits by independent third parties to ensure the integrity of their platforms. This focus on data protection and fair play instills confidence in players, knowing their funds and personal information are secure.

In Conclusion

The relationship between sports enthusiasts and online gambling is a complex and evolving one. Both worlds benefit from their interconnection, with casinos finding sponsorship opportunities in the sports industry, and sports events attracting a more engaged audience through gambling affiliations. While the ethics of gambling remain a subject of debate, it’s clear that these two entertainment domains will continue to share an intriguing synergy, offering enthusiasts a diverse array of entertainment options.

An Insight into the Intersection of Online Gaming and Sports

By Special To CalHiSports.com | Published October 4, 2023

Two colossal realms of entertainment — online gaming and traditional sports — have been converging in remarkable ways. As technology reshapes people’s lives, these once disparate worlds are now merging, creating a fascinating crossroads of experiences. Explore the exciting intersection of online gaming and sports, uncovering their synergies, their shared fan base, and the potential impact on both industries.

Esports: The New Arena

Esports, the realm of competitive video gaming, has emerged as a global sensation. Esports tournaments are filling massive stadiums and drawing millions of online viewers. What makes this phenomenon even more captivating is the overlap between esports and traditional sports. Numerous professional athletes, spanning from soccer to basketball, are avid gamers, establishing a bridge between these two worlds. This synergy has given rise to thrilling collaborations, such as NBA 2K leagues and partnerships between esports organizations and major sports franchises.

Gamification of Sports

The gamification of sports has elevated the fan experience to unprecedented heights. Sports apps and websites offer real-time updates, fantasy leagues, and interactive content that fully immerse fans in the game. This gamified approach blurs the lines between online gaming and traditional sports, cultivating a more engaged and interactive fan base. As fans craft their fantasy teams or predict match outcomes, they are, in essence, participating in a form of gaming that deepens their connection to the sport. There are even sports-themed games on sites like Real money casino online USA, which offers a wide variety of games, including slots, online blackjack, and online poker.

Betting on the Action

Within the realm of sports betting, the convergence of online gaming and traditional sports becomes notably evident. Some gaming sites, known for their diverse gaming options, have now ventured into the world of sports betting. This seamless integration combines the excitement of sports with the thrill of gaming, drawing in traditional sports enthusiasts and gamers alike. Many websites now provide online platforms where fans can place bets on their favorite teams and athletes, adding an extra layer of engagement that enriches the overall experience.

Virtual Reality (VR) Spectacles

Virtual reality is revolutionizing how you experience sports and gaming. VR headsets transport fans to the very heart of the action, allowing them to witness games from the best seats in the house or even step into the shoes of their favorite athletes within virtual environments. This remarkable technology bridges the gap between gaming and sports, creating immersive experiences that captivate a broader audience. Esports tournaments held in VR and sports training applications further underscore this convergence, promising endless possibilities at this captivating crossroads.

Bottom Line

The intersection of online gaming and sports is a dynamic fusion of two cultural phenomena that continue to shape leisure activities. Esports, gamified sports experiences, sports betting, and virtual reality spectacles are at the forefront of this convergence.

This trend enriches the fan experience, attracts a wider audience, and unleashes new opportunities for innovation in both industries. As technology evolves, you can only anticipate this fusion becoming more intricate, offering fans exciting new ways to engage with their favorite sports and games. The future holds boundless possibilities at this thrilling crossroads of online gaming and sports, including the
seamless integration of online casinos in the USA that offer real money gaming, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.

On The OLu Sidelines With A Neighbor

By Mark Tennis | Published August 27, 2023

Donna and Doug Sherman are shown with their sons Rod and Ron. They live in Stockton across the street from Cal-Hi Sports. Ron lives in Stockton as well. Rod is in his third season as head football coach at Orange Lutheran. Photo: Mark Tennis.


Our unique connection to the Orange Lutheran football program comes from being neighbors with the head coach’s parents.

FOR OUR KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM BEING AT SEASON OPENERS IN THE BAY AREA, CLICK HERE.

The offensive coordinator at Orange Lutheran when the school won the CIF D2 state title in 2006 was Rod Sherman, who left the school in 2007 to help build a similar program at Valor Christian in Highlands Ranch, Colo. The goal at Valor was the same at California Christian-based schools like Oaks Christian, Valley Christian (San Jose) and OLu. They were all schools that started small but wanted to go big.

The school in Colorado didn’t want Sherman to be athletic director and head coach so his best friend, Brent Vieselmeyer, came with him to be head football coach. Brent was the defensive coordinator at OLu in 2006 under head coach Jim Kunau. They won their first state title there in 2009 in a lower division and were quickly moved up to the state’s highest class. Valor won state titles in 2010 and 2011 and kept winning them in 2012 when Rod took over as head football coach while continuing as athletic director. Valor Christian later won state titles under Sherman in 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2016.

Rod Sherman wasn’t sure about one call during the Orange Lutheran-De La Salle game but very rarely questioned the officials. Photo: Willie Eashman.


Starting not long after 2007, updates on how Rod was doing in Colorado became easy to come by. His parents, Doug and Donna Sherman, had retired and moved from Southern California to Stockton where their other son, Ron, lives. They both also are Stockton natives and are graduates of Stagg High in Stockton. It just so happened they bought a house across the street from where yours truly, the longtime editor of Cal-Hi Sports, has been living since 1997.

Doug and Donna are often seen riding their bikes through the neighborhood and Doug still happily mows his own lawn. They almost made it a yearly tradition to head to Colorado during the state championship weeks there as Valor Christian often went to them and almost always won.

One of the players that Rod and Brent coached at Valor was running back Christian McCaffrey, the son of former Denver Broncos’ standout Ed McCaffrey, who is now playing for the San Francisco 49ers and was earlier runner-up for the Heisman Trophy at Stanford. After the 2017 season and despite an 11-1 record, Rod had to leave Valor Christian. Ed then became head coach (although he only stayed for two years before going to Northern Colorado University). Rod had become the head coach at Arapahoe High in Littleton, which was the school he was at when he took the OLu job in 2020. Brent is now on the staff of the NFL’s Washington Commanders and previously was a head coach at Santa Margarita.

Since 2021, almost every weekend during the season, Doug and Donna have traveled from Stockton to Orange County to see Rod’s teams play. Their most recent trip was just last weekend to see the Lancers defeat Serra of Gardena and also to see the first freshman game of their grandson, Deacon, who is one of Rod and wife Kristin’s four children. This week’s game for OLu at De La Salle is the first time they’ve seen one of Rod’s teams play and then be able to sleep in their own beds afterward in more than 15 years.

It was a busy time for the Shermans after the game last Friday as well. Rod and Kristin were planning to take one of their daughters to college two days later in Arizona. Kristin will have to come back to Orange County to coach a football team just like Rod since she has taken on the role of being the OLu flag football coach. Doug and Donna took off in their RV for one night on Saturday near Sequoia National Park and were then going to be in Southern California for OLu’s home game next week vs Eastside Catholic of Washington. They are then going to head to Arizona for OLu’s fourth game against Chandler High. Kristin’s parents live there so all four grandparents will be there for that game.

Doug was on the sidelines for the game vs De La Salle and likes to get a sideline pass for all of his son’s games. It was a different experience for us from the usual as well, watching a lot of plays with someone you see frequently all the time so close to home.

Mark Tennis is the co-founder and publisher of CalHiSports.com. He can be reached at markjtennis@gmail.com. Don’t forget to follow Mark on the Cal-Hi Sports Twitter handle:

Boys BB: Major Showcase Schedules

By Ronnie Flores | Published August 24, 2023

In November, we will begin the release of our preseason 2023-24 Cal-Hi Sports boys basketball state rankings. As a preview to how things could shake out, here is a list of the major 2023-24 tournaments and classics involving California teams that figure to be ranked. The 2023-24 season officially begins November 13. The CIF state basketball championships are scheduled to take place March 8-9, 2024. 

Read more…

Preseason State Football Hub

By Mark Tennis | Published August 21, 2023

A lot of the players celebrating St. John Bosco’s No. 1 finish in the state last year have moved on, but the Braves stay No. 1 to start this season for the same reason Mater Dei of Santa Ana was No. 1 to start last season: the winning team between those two stays higher until they play again. Photo: Scott Kurtz / Cal-Hi Sports.


Here’s a simple one-stop place to find links to all of the preseason football content for 2023 on the CalHiSports.com web site. This is the 45th season in which we’ve covered the entire state.

STATEWIDE LINEUP OF PRESEASON
ALL-SECTION/REGION TEAMS:
CIF Northern Section | CIF Sac-Joaquin Section | CIFSS Inland Empire | CIF Central Section | CIF San Diego Section | CIF NCS East Bay | CIFSS San Fernando/Ventura | CIF L.A. City Section | CIFSS San Gabriel Valley | CIFSS Long Beach/South Bay | CIF NCS Redwood Empire | CIF Central Coast Section | CIF/SS Orange County

Preseason All-State Football Teams

All State Records Ready for 2023 Season

Preseason State TOP 50 FB Rankings (1-10)
Preseason State TOP 50 FB Rankings (11-30)
Preseason State TOP 50 FB Rankings (31-50)

We hope you consider a Gold Club membership on CalHiSports.com to view all the preseason all section teams. All regular season State TOP 50 rankings also will be Gold Club posts. You can sign up today to get all of our Gold Club content for just $3.99 for one month. A three-month sub, which by the way will carry you through almost all of the upcoming season, is just $9.99. For details, CLICK HERE.

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