Fans can get their first look at the 2009 SBCC football team this Saturday when the Vaqueros will hold an intrasquad scrimmage, starting at 6 p.m., in La Playa Stadium.
Third-year coach Craig Moropoulos is working with 82 players this season, a significant drop from last year. “We’re more focused and defined,” said Moropoulos. “Practices have been going well.”
Freshman John Uribe, who threw for 4,164 yards and 41 TDs while completing 65 percent at Santa Barbara High last year, has the inside track at quarterback. Uribe earned MVP honors in last month’s County All-Star game at La Playa Stadium, after throwing for 354 yards and four touchdowns in a 26-24 South victory. Two of his TD tosses went to ex-Bishop Diego High standout Art Gonzalez, who’s also playing for the Vaqueros.
“John is the starter right now but I’m not going to name a starting QB until Monday,” said Moropoulos. “He’s doing very well and Cale Carson, who was on the team last year, has shown a lot at times. Tristan Carter and Robin Lawson (a pair of sophomore running backs) have also looked very good.”
SBCC opens the season with three strong opponents. The Vaqueros will take on Hancock on Sept. 5 at Righetti High, followed by 6 p.m. home contests against Canyons (Sept. 12) and Ventura (Sept. 19).
“I’m optimistic but we start right out of the gate with three of the tougher teams we can play,” Moropoulos noted. “It will be a real challenge for us. … We’ve got to find a way to get better every week.”
