CIF football finals week begins with press luncheon and introduction of OC teams

Cypress High players (from left) Isaac Hurtado, Tyler Jones and Luke Porteneuve join Coach Rick Feldman at the luncheon. Cypress meets Temecula Valley Friday at 7 p.m. at Western in the Division 7 final. (Photo courtesy Cypress High Athletics)

Players and coaches from the seven teams in Orange County playing in this weekend’s CIF football finals were honored Monday at the annual CIF Media Luncheon at The Grand in Long Beach.

Each team was introduduced and media members had a chance to talk with players and coaches and take photographs. A full lunch was provided for the players and coaches.

El Monte was awarded the CIF Division 12 championship trophy after CIF officials ruled a double forfeit for the semifinal game between Adelanto and Orange Vista because of what they said involved, “a physical altercation out on the field that involved nearly every member of both teams.” El Monte finished 13-0 to take the crown.

The keynote speaker was Chris Rix of Fox Sports, who talked about athletes, coaches and others getting “knocked down” and rising to the occasion when challenging times arise. Rix is a former All-Serra League player with Santa Margarita who now is on the broacast team with Fox Sports.

Previews of the 13 division championship games were presented (there is no final for Division 12).

Players and coaches from Mater Dei, Corona del Mar, San Juan Hills, Cypress, Sunny Hills, Marina and Esperanza were introduced.

OC Sports Zone was on hand for the luncheon and will provide features throughout the week, so please check back.

CLICK HERE FOR THE SCHEDULE FOR ALL CIF FINALS

-Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com