Novato Sports Blog

2010 Game 6: Yellow Jackets vs. Central Marin Chargers

2010-10-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

Tenacious Defense the Yellow Jacket Way!
Photo Copyright Bill Fox Sports Photos 2010

The pictures from this game are available at the Novato Yellow Jackets photo site.

Game Summary

The Yellow Jackets travelled to Terra Linda High School for a late season battle of unbeaten teams on a hot Sunday afternoon. The Chargers won the coin toss and elected to receive the opening kick-off. It was the only advantage they would have all day.

The Novato defense firmly established itself on the opening drive, shutting down Central Marin and forcing them to punt on a quick 4-and-out. After getting the ball at the 50 Novato drove the field but eventually gave the ball back on downs at the Charger 12 yard line.

After shutting down the Chargers second drive, Novato quickly took advantage and scored a touchdown on a 3 yard run by Marc Alvarez for a 6-0 lead with 7:13 remaining in the second quarter.

The Novato defense held for the remainder of the first half and went into halftime without yielding a first down.

Novato got the ball first in the second half but gave the ball back to Central Marin on the yard line on a great Alvarez punt. When the defense held tight again the Yellow Jackets offense got started on the Charger side of the field. They struck quickly on a 34-yard Jack Burnham pass and an acrobatic one-handed Nate Barkus catch and run for a touchdown. After adding a 2-point PAT by Jackson Wegner the Jackets led 14-0 at 2:56 in the third quarter.

The Chargers got their first, and only, first-down on a long pass and reception with 1 minute left in the third quarter. The rest of the game proved to be a defensive struggle.

The Chargers took the ball away on an interception with 6:51 left in the game. Novato quickly took it back on an interception by Alec Ball. Ball had a second interception a few minutes later to give Novato the ball deep in Central Marin territory. Time ran out with the Yellow Jackets driving to the Charger 8 yard line.

Final Score: Novato Yellow Jackets 14, Central Marin Chargers 0

Season Record: 6-0

Points Allowed: 12

Next Up: Southern Marin Broncos at 2:00 pm Sunday, October 17 at Redwood High School.

Highlight Photos

Another trademark Jackson Wegner PAT

Air Ben flies ahead for more

Alex Ball drags a defender for good yardage

Nate Barkus make a one-hand snag
Photo Copyright Bill Fox Sports Photos 2010

Robbie Cassee gets serious air
Photo Copyright Bill Fox Sports Photos 2010

2010 Game 5: Yellow Jackets vs. Elk Grove Dukes

2010-10-04T09:07:00.001-07:00

Yellow Jacket defense is dead on!

The pictures from this game are available at the Novato Yellow Jackets photo site.

Game Summary

After a late week change of opponent the Yellow Jackets took the home field for the final time in the 2010 regular season against the 4-0 Elk Grove Dukes making it a critical mid-season a battle of AYF NorCal Conference unbeatens. While the sun was shining and the temperature was much lower than the previous week the heat on the field was palpable.

Novato won the coin toss and looked strong on the opening drive before giving the ball away on a fumble. The Yellow Jacket defense quickly established itself with a trademark 4-and-out capped by Robbie Cassee getting a hand on the Elk Grove punt.

While the Novato offense failed to capitalize on the next drive the defense stepped up again as Danny Dreher recovered an Elk Grove fumble on their 9 yard line. The Yellow Jackets quickly took advantage with a touchdown pass from quarterback Jack Burnham to wide-receiver Nate Barkus to open the scoring at 9:50 in the second quarter. With a trademark Jackson Wegner 2-point PAT the lead was 8-0.

Dreher struck again on the ensuing kick-off, recovering the ball so the Novato offense could work again. This time the Yellow Jackets methodically drove the field and capped it with an 18-yard touchdown run by Marc Alvarez. With another 2-point Wegner PAT Novato then led 16-0 going into halftime.

Novato started on defense in the second half and promptly got the ball back, this time on a Nolan Pelletier fumble recovery. After another crisp drive, Alvarez scored again on a strong 12-yard touchdown run and with the Wegner 2-point PAT the score was 24-0 at 5:41 in the third quarter.

In order to keep the game going without a running clock Novato kicked a field-goal on first down from the 2-yard line giving the Yellow Jackets a 27-0 lead with 1:23 left in the third quarter. With the score under the "mercy rule" limit, the gold offense got to show it's stuff in the fourth quarter including what should have been a 40-yard touchdown run by Alec Ball.

But this day was won by the swarming Novato defense which shut out a powerful conference opponent and didn't allow a first-down all day.

Final Score: Novato Yellow Jackets 27, Elk Grove Dukes 0

Season Record: 5-0

Points Allowed: 12

Next Up: Central Marin Chargers at 3:00 pm Sunday, October 10 at Terra Linda High School

Highlight Photos

Nate Barkus going in for the score!

Danny Dreher covers the onside kick

Jack Burnham is about to pass to Robbie Cassee

Marc Alvarez on the way to the first of two TD runs

Swarming Yellow Jackets Defense

Jackson Wegner goes for 3 (and 9 on the day!)

Alec Ball running to daylight

2010 Game 4: Yellow Jackets vs. Palo Alto Knights

2010-10-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

McGarty and Cassee leading the way for Putman

The pictures from this game are available at the Novato Yellow Jackets photo site.

Game Summary
After winning by forfeit in week 3 the Yellow Jackets were ready to go in week 4 with a home game against the Palo Alto Knights at the Novato High School field. While the day was hot the Yellow Jackets were hotter as they shut down the visiting team for their fourth straight win of the season.

Novato opened the scoring with a 31-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jack Burnham to tight-end Joe Kelly for a 6-0 lead at 8:00 in the first quarter. Ben Putman jumped on a fumble later in the half on one of Novato's fine defensive stands. The defense actually scored next when they sacked the Knights quarterback in the end-zone for a safety with :32 left in the half for an 8-0 lead.

Novato controlled the ball for nearly all of the second half. After a quarter-long drive the Yellow Jackets scored on a 1-yard touchdown run by Robbie Cassee for a 12-0 lead with 8:45 in the fourth quarter.

Danny Dreher promptly got the ball back by pouncing on a mishandled Palo Alto lateral. After a rare four-and-out the stifling Yellow Jacket defense struck again as Nate Barkus intercepted a short Knights pass and returned it 20 yards for a touchdown. With a Jackson Wegner 2-point PAT Novato culminated the scoring at 24-0 with 2:19 left in the game.

Final Score: Novato Yellow Jackets 24, Palo Alto Knights 0

Season Record: 4-0

Points Allowed: 12

Next Up: Elk Grove Dukes at 2 pm on Sunday, October 3 at Novato High School.

Highlight Photos

Ben Putman on the way to a big gain

Joe Kelly making a big catch on the way to a touchdown

Ben Putman gives his all to recover the fumble

Marc Alvarez makes a big stop

Robbie Cassee scores his first TD of the season

The D comes up big with a safety!

2010 Game 2: Yellow Jackets vs. San Jose Sharks

2010-09-11T19:16:00.000-07:00

Swarming Yellow Jackets Ruled the Field All Day

The pictures from this game are available at the Novato Yellow Jackets photo site.

Game Summary

The Yellow Jackets traveled to San Jose Academy High School to take on the San Jose Sharks for their second game of the season. While the field was hot Novato was hotter as they shut down the home team for their second straight win.

Novato won the coin toss and received the opening kick-off. After a great return by Nate Barkus the Yellow Jackets promptly drove the field and scored on a 2-yard run by Ben Putman. Jackson Wegner kicked the 2-point conversion for a quick 8-0 lead.

The Yellow Jacket defense then took the field and promptly shut down the Sharks for a quick 4-and-out to get the ball back. It was a pattern that would be followed all day as the defense allowed no points and not a single first down on the way to their first shutout of the young season.

Novato promptly made the way down the field again on its second drive. Putman capped it again, this time with a 9-yard touchdown run. After another 2-point Wegner conversion the Yellow Jackets were up 16-0.

After the second 4-and-out from the defense Novato drove and scored again. This time it culminated in an 11-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jack Burnham to tight-end Joe Kelly. After adding another Wegner 2-point conversion Novato was up 24-0.

Not to be outdone, the defense got into the scoring act on the next Sharks drive. Linebacker Stone Herrera and lineman Donja Stephens put significant pressure on the San Jose quarterback causing the ball to soar off course and into the hands of linebacker Marc Alvarez. Alvarez picked his way down the field for the touchdown. Wegner followed with his fourth 2-point PAT and the Yellow Jackets were up 32-0 with 4:47 left in the second quarter, invoking the "mercy rule" for the remainder of the game.

The mercy rule means the clock continues to run and the leading team can no longer pass the ball on offense, cannot blitz on defense and no longer kicks extra points. The losing team gets the ball starting on it's own 40-yard line on each subsequent score.

After another stop on defense the Yellow Jackets left the field at half-time leading 32-0

The second half proved much the same, only much faster. The Yellow Jackets defense held firm. And the restricted offense still proved formidable and drove the field twice for scores. The first was a 13-yard touchdown run by Alvarez for what would have been the 38th point. The second was a strong 17-yard run by Barkus for his first touchdown of the year and what would have been a final 44-0 score.

Final Score: Novato Yellow Jackets 32*, San Jose Sharks 0

* The scoring was capped via the "mercy rule" or the final score would have been 44-0.

Season Record: 2-0

Next Up: The Mira Loma Jr. Matadors - Sunday, September 19, 2010 at 3:00 pm at the Novato High School field.

Game Gallery

The Offense prepares for another big play!

Ben Putman scores for the second time

Robbie Cassee on a long catch and run

Joe Kelly gets another touchdown catch for his 3rd of the year

Stone Herrera and Donja Stephens harass the QB to force an interception

Marc Alvarez breaks free for his second TD of the game

Nate Barkus on his way to a score

Hunter Wegner, Chris Folsom & Putman knock the ball loose

More smothering Yellow Jackets defense

2010 Game 1: Yellow Jackets vs. Emeryville Ravens

2010-09-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Yellow Jackets are ready to rumble!

The pictures from this game are available at the Novato Yellow Jackets photo site.

Game Summary

The Yellow Jackets officially started their 2010 season on Sunday, September 5 with a home game against the Emeryville Ravens. With the move the the AYF NorCal Conference this year, Novato is now up against some new foes and a few old ones as well. In this case the Emeryville squad is the latest iteration of the Tri-City Ravens, with their distinctive black and purple uniforms.

While the game started almost an hour late after a full slate of battles throughout the day, the conditions were perfect with bright sun, warm bordering on hot, and a relatively full house at Novato High School to watch the hometown black and gold.

The Yellow Jackets won the coin toss and elected to receive the ball first, usually a good sign. In this case Novato gave the ball up deep in its own territory leading to a quick Ravens score and a 6-0 hole.

But that was about the end of the bad news for the home team this day. After a strong runback on the second kick-off Novato drove the field and capped it with a Jack Burnham touchdown toss to Joe Kelly. The Yellow Jackets took an 8-6 lead with a Jackson Wegner 2-point PAT and the black and gold were on the way.

The Jackets vaunted defense almost shut-out the Ravens the rest of the way, yielding few yards while harassing the Ravens' quarterback, runners and receivers all day. While the D gave up an unfortunately wide-open touchdown reception in the second quarter, Danny Dreher intercepted another pass and Ben Putman landed on a loose-ball fumble to keep the ball mostly in Novato's possession.

And the Yellow Jackets made the most of it. Kelly scored a second touchdown on another catch and run from Burnham to put Novato up 16-6 following another Wegner PAT. Wegner ended the day with 8 points on 4 PATs. But the real scoring was yet to come.

The heavy scoring was done by Marc Alvarez who caught and ran the ball for the next 4 Yellow Jackets touchdowns. The result was a 44-12 win and a strong start to the new season.

"The boys really played well today," said head coach John Jones. "We still have areas where we can improve, but we stepped up to the challenge in game one. I can't say enough about this defense - they really got the job done. The captains stepped up on both sides of the ball and we got terrific play from both the offensive and defensive lines. And our quarterback and running backs kept the pressure on their defense all day long. This was a great way to start the season."

Final Score: Novato Yellow Jackets 44, Emeryville Ravens 12

2010 Record: 1-0

Next Up: San Jose Sharks at 3:00 pm on Saturday, September 11 at San Jose Academy High School.

Highlight Photos:

The first of four Jackson Wegner 2-point PATs

Joe Kelly goes in for his second TD of the day

Robbie Cassee runs for a first down

Big Ben Putman stops the Raven's receiver in his tracks

Marc Alvarez dives for one of his four TDs

2010 Novato Youth Football Season is Coming!

2010-08-04T12:13:00.000-07:00

Hello Novato Sports Blog friends.

Are you ready for some football? I sure am.

While I've taken a break from posting updates here since the Novato Stingers had their amazing run at the 2009 AYF National Championships there are still lots of things happening on the Novato Sports scene. If you are reading this and have information to share about a Novato team or athlete, let me know and I'll post your information here.

Since my son Robbie will be playing as a Novato Yellow Jacket this year I'll start posting game recaps, highlights and photos here later this month. The even better news is that there are a some other amazing parent-photographers for this team, so you will have access to even more, and better, shots of the action.

And to set the tone for the upcoming season I've even updated the look of the Novato Sports Blog with a football theme.

Look for more here soon.

Cheers! - Jason

National Championships - Game 3 vs. Leyden Bears

2009-12-15T13:32:00.000-08:00

The Novato Stingers banner flies proudly for Game 3 in Florida

The pictures from this game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game 3 Summary

The Novato Stingers concluded their 2009 National Championship odyssey on Thursday, December 10th with another game at Austin-Lindall Park in Kissimmee, Florida. Novato arrived under a daunting Florida downpour and was drenched within a few minutes of starting the pre-game warm-up. But players and coaches alike were smiling and joking as if it were a sunny and warm.

When game time arrived, the Stingers were ready to roll and their fans, though few, were already in mid-game form. Novato won the coin-toss and elected to receive the ball first.

The Stingers first drive was strong again, as they methodically drove the field on a short series of runs and short passes. Unfortunately, they came up short with a fumble deep in Bears' territory.

The good news was this was the chance for the Stingers version of the Novato "Black Swarm" to take the field for the final game of the season. Novato's starting "Black" defense has shut down opponents all year, so it's proper that we recognize each of them for their outstanding work all year. The starting eleven are: linemen Hunter Wegner, Daronn McCall, Chris Folsom and Robbie Cassée; linebackers Gene Peugh-Wade, Angelo Lagomarsino and Marc Alvarez; cornerbacks Alec Ball and Danny Dreher; and safeties Henry Dalton and Ben Putman. And on this day they, and their "Gold" counterparts did their jobs well.

The Stingers D held fast on the Bears' first drive, which was still going when play stopped at the end of the first quarter with the score tied 0-0. Coach John Jones admonished the Stingers to step-it-up another notch and they did on the first play of the second-quarter when Cassée made his first interception of the year giving Novato the ball back.

The Stingers started with a Tommy Sanz to Cassée pass for a first down. Putman followed with a couple of strong runs but Novato gave the ball back on downs.

Novato held Leyden on the next drive but gave the ball back after a quick run and a fumble on a half-back option pass that didn't quite work right.

Leyden's next drive ate up the remaining time and the teams went to halftime still locked at 0.

The Bears got the ball first in the second-half and the resulting drive took nearly the entire quarter. The stingy Stingers D held fast, but Coach Jones had to make a tough call toward the end of the quarter to avoid a real problem. Because the Leyden offense had been on the field so long, the Stingers' Gold offense hadn't been in for enough minimum plays. If Leyden had kept the ball into the fourth quarter, all Stingers without the minimum plays would have had to go in on defense until they reached their required numbers. Since the Novato players in this situation were all offensive players, this could have been a real challenge.

Fortunately, by calling all three of the Stingers time-outs in the last two minutes of the third quarter, and with the Novato defense holding fast, the Bears turned the ball over on downs before the end of the quarter.

So, with the Gold offense now getting it's plays, the Stingers finally got a break-away by Marc Alvarez for what looked like a 70-yard touchdown and the lead. But it wasn't meant to be, and the ball came back because of a holding call. The Stingers got off one more running play before the two teams broke before the fourth quarter still knotted at zero.

The Stingers started with a Sanz to Alvarez pass, but came out just short and had to punt the ball back to the bears. But the Stingers held fast, and after a critical third-down sack by Alvarez, Novato got the ball back with good field position. Putman and Alvarez moved the ball on the ground and Cassée caught a pass over the middle to move the Stingers to the Bears 5-yard line. Putman took two more tries up the middle, moving the ball to within two-inches of scoring. With one more herculean lunge, and with the aid of a huge push by the left side of the offensive line, Putman pushed in for the score, giving the Stingers a 6-0 lead after the failed PAT.

After giving the ball back on the kick-off, Novato's defense came up big one last time. Chris Folsom got through for a huge sack and the rest of the sward stopped the Bears cold for a 4-and-out. After one last play it was over, and the Stingers walked away with the win and the satisfaction that comes with being the third-place AYF PeeWee Division II team in the nation.

Final Score: Novato Stingers 6, Leyden Bears 0

Final Ranking: 3rd Place, AYF PeeWee Division II National Championship

Here are a few highlights from the Stingers big win in the consolation/third-place game:

Ben Putman returns the opening kick-off for the Stingers

Robbie Cassée intercepts the ball on the first play of the second quarter

Tommy Sanz throws the ball out to the right...

...and it's caught for a first-down and more by Cassée

The Stingers "Black Swarm" in action

Marc Alvarez breaks one for a touchdown...but it's brought back by a holding call

Alvarez make a key catch to start the scoring drive

Putman gaining critical yards on the scoring drive

Putman pushes it into the end-zone for a touchdown

The stingers celebrate the touchdown!

Chris Folsom comes up huge with a sack in Leyden's final drive

The Stinger "D" stops the Bears on their final play of a stellar season

The Novato Stingers are 3rd in the nation!

Coach Jones shows off the hardware

Your 2009 Novato Stingers are:

Head Coach: John Jones

Assistant Coaches: Jack Jones, Rich Putman, Jose Herrera, Mark Wright, Martin Sanz, Mario Balestrieri, Demaurea Fleming

Players: 5 Danny Dreher, 6 Jordan Polera, 7 Henry Dalton, 8 Gene Peugh-Wade, 9 Angelo Lagomarsino, 10 Ben Putman, 12 Alec Ball, 13 Tommy Sanz, 14 Daronn McCall, 16 Robbie Cassée, 18 Hunter Wegner, 20 Anthony Balestrieri, 21 Marc Alvarez, 24 Paul Kunst, 25 Chris Folsom, 28 Andrew Tapia, 33 Daniel Hopkins, 34 Sean McDevitt, 42 Sam Mina, 43 Brandon Caamal, 44 Joseph Navarro, 47 Moses Johnson, 52 Michael Sumpter-Blakely, 54 Ryan Johnson, 59 Daylan Birlin, 60 William Cestarollo, 65 Andrew Larkin, 66 John Paul Hernandez, 82 John Viezcas and 99 Matthew Simmons

Team Mom: Carrie Cassée

National Championships - Game 2 vs. Southside Cowboys

2009-12-08T14:49:00.000-08:00

The pictures from this game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game 2 Summary

The Novato Stingers continued their National Championship odyssey with a 2 PM game against the Southside Cowboys from Houston at Austin-Tindall Park on a hot, sunny and muggy Tuesday. While the Cowboys won the coin-toss, they deferred to the Stingers who elected to receive the ball first. And the offense did its thing, slowly and methodically driving the ball down the field. Ben Putman was the workhorse, accounting for nine carries in the first drive alone. With fourth-and-goal from just inside the two-yard line the Stingers came up just short and turned it over to the Cowboys.

From there on, it was a defensive struggle for the entire first-half. The Stingers looked like they might score on their second drive, but a strong pass from Tommy Sanz was just out of Robbie Cassée's reach.

The teams went to half-time with a well-earned scoreless tie.

Things look good for the Stingers again as Henry Dalton came up with the opening kick-off and Novato had the first drive of the second-half as well. The first drive came up short as the Stingers fumbled the ball back on a fourth-and-ten+ just inside Cowboy territory.

The Stingers defense held tight throughout the third-quarter too with the two team locked 0-0 going into the final quarter.

The Cowboys broke out with a long run for a touchdown with about nine minutes to play, but the defense stuffed the PAT run to hold the score at 6-0.

Novato looked to score on the ensuing drive, including a clutch pass from Sanz to a diving Paul Kunst on a critical fourth-down play, but came up short at the Cowboy 24.

Again, the defense held tight and had the Cowboys backed up with a fourth-and-long in their own territory and just under two minutes to play. Unfortunately, Southside broke another long run for a touchdown, puting the game away. The defense denied the PAT run again, with Marc Alvarez, Chris Folsom, Cassée and the rest of the defense stuffing the run at the line.

Novato's final drive ran out of time and the Stingers came up short against a very tough team.

Final Score: Novato Stingers 0, Southside Cowboys 12

Next Up: Leyden Bears in the consolation/third-place game on Thursday at 2 PM Eastern Time.

Photos of Game 2 (there are 780 of them!) are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

National Championships - Game 1 vs. Brooklyn Tomahawks

2009-12-06T16:10:00.000-08:00

The pictures from this game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game 1 Summary

The Novato Stingers started their National Championship odyssey with a very interesting twist indeed. Novato was bracketed against a tough Brooklyn Tomahawks team which came with a 7-2 record after outscoring its opponents 209-6 this year. The two teams started play a little after 2 PM at Austin-Tindall Park in Kissimmee, Florida under overcast skies with balmy temperatures.

Things didn't look good for the Stingers early. After winning the coin-toss and getting the opening kick-off Novato had a short drive with a few first-downs but ended up turning the ball over on an interception. Brooklyn took advantage, driving the field for a quick touchdown and a rushing PAT for a 7-0 lead.

Novato's second drive was promising, with the Stingers knocking on the door before the Tomahawks intercepted another pass to stall the drive.

The two teams continued to slug it out and the first-quarter closed with the Tomahawks up 7-0. And they quickly made it 13-0 on a lightning-fast 64-yeard pass, catch and run by Brooklyn. The only good news was Novato stopped the PAT run short of the end-zone to keep the score from being higher.

Novato came very close to scoring before halftime after a fumble recovery and a strong drive that looked like it would result in points, but the pass in the end-zone was intercepted by a Brooklyn defender on a spectacular rolling catch. In all, the Stingers looked a little flat as Coach Jones prodded the boys to step things up in the second-half.

And pump it up they did! The opening onside kick-off just narrowly escaped out of bounds in front of a diving Ben Putman. But the stingy Stinger defense that we've seen all year returned, and after a short drive they took the ball back with a fumble recovery by Danny Dreher. Novato pushed it down the field on sheer willpower with a series of grinding runs and short passes that culminated in a 7-yard Marc Alvarez touchdown. With the blocked PAT kick the score was whittled down to 13-6 and the Stingers had matched the total scoring against the Tomahawks all year!

But the Stingers weren't done. In the fourth quarter, with time ticking down Novato got the ball back near mid-field for one last try. After a successful tight-end pass by Robbie Cassee and another key connection between quarterback Tommy Sanz and receiver Paul Kunst, Alvarez ripped off another touchdown run, this one for 20 yards to leave the Stingers down a point with less than a minute to play. The team stuck with what had worked all year and entrusted the PAT to Alvarez' leg. Unfortunately, the Tomahawks were able to push through and block the kick leaving Novato a point short at 13-12.

As the clock ran out after a couple of Brooklyn kneel-downs, the Stingers looked to have come up just a bit short in this hard-fought Florida battle.

But wait, there's more...

While the Stingers didn't score more points they were declared the winner by forfeit. Coach Jones quickly explained to the team that Brooklyn didn't have enough players so they had forfeit the game and played with four ineligible players who were above the weight limit. Essentially, this means that the Stingers almost beat a Jr. Midget team. And scored twice the number of points that team had given up all year in the process.

So what looked like defeat was in essence an excellent warm-up for the Stingers next game - in the winner's bracket against a tough Southside Cowboys team from Houston, Texas on Tuesday, December 8.

Not a bad outcome from a gritty, determined Stingers performance.

Final Score: Novato Stingers - win by forfeit (Game score Stingers 12, Tomahawks 13)

Next Up: Southside Cowboys - Tuesday, December 8 at 2 PM.

Here are some photo highlights from the game:

Coach Putman pumping up the Stingers before entering the field

Ben Putman taking the opening kick-off up the field

Henry Dalton forcefully separating receiver from ball

Robbie Cassee lowers the boom on a defender while yards

Angelo Lagomarsino gaining critical yards in the second-half

Marc Alvarez slips through for Novato's first touchdown

Alvarez again, this time on the way to a 20-yard score

Support the Novato Stingers as they SWARM Florida!

2009-11-23T19:30:00.000-08:00

A request from the Novato Stingers players and families...

Novato Youth Football 2009 Stingers (Pee-Wee) Need Your Support

Dear Friends of Novato Youth Football & Cheer,

The Novato Stingers (PeeWee division) won the regional Mountain Valley Youth Football League Superbowl on Sunday, November 21st and earned the right to go to the American Youth Football National Championships in Orlando, December 5-12. We are looking forward to making our friends, family and community proud as we swarm toward a national title.

Our success has not been made by one player alone or a streak of luck. We have won our games due to the teamwork we exhibit each and every week. We are a close football family. Financially, it is a very significant challenge we face sending 31 boys to Orlando. Times are tough for many and contributions to our league are down. Estimated costs to attend are approximately $1,100.00 per player.

Itʼs going to take teamwork to send all of our boys to Orlando and we hope we can count on your support. We do not want to have to leave a member of our football family behind due to a lack of funds.

Our timeframe is aggressive and we are posting this note in the hope that you and/or your company with contribute to our efforts with a tax-deductible donation or sponsorship. If you can help us out, please e-mail ccassee@comcast.net or call 415.827.2872 and we will get a form right out to you!

Thank you so much!!!!!

GO STINGERS!

'09 MVL SuperBowl - Novato Stingers vs. Lathrop Steelers

2009-11-23T12:36:00.000-08:00

Stinger moms show they "Believe" in their team

The pictures from this game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game Summary

The #1 seeded Novato Stingers got to travel to Lathrop High School just outside Stockton to play the #3 seeded Lathrop Steelers in the Mountain Valley Youth Football League Division II SuperBowl on Saturday, November 21st. It was a later start than usual for a PeeWee game, but with sunny skies and a serious chill in the air the games got down to business with a 3 PM kick-off.

The Steelers won the coin-toss but deferred to the Stingers, who elected to receive the ball first. After a short opening drive, Novato had to give the ball back setting the stage for a defensive struggle. And the Stinger defense did take over, forcing a fumble on the Steeler 35 after a short drive. Novato took only a few plays to capitalize, with Alec Ball (12) breaking free for a 30-yard touchdown run for the first points of the game. Marc Alvarez (21) kicked the two-point PAT and the Stingers were up 8-0 with 1:30 remaining in the first quarter.

The teams each got one more shot in the first-half, but came up short so Novato lead 8-0 at halftime.

Novato kicked-off to start the second-half, and immediately took control when Ben Putman (10) pounced on the onside-kick. After a short drive, the Stingers had to kick the ball back and with the addition of a blocking-in-the-back penalty on the return, the Steelers were backed up on their 9 yard-line. Novato held Lathrop and got the ball back on the Lathrop 16 yard-line. A quick 13-yard pass from quarterback Tommy Sanz (13) to tight-end Robbie Cassée (16) set up a first-and-goal. Half-back Putman then pushed it in for a touchdown and with Alvarez's second two-point PAT the Stingers were up 16-0 with 2:54 remaining in the third-quarter.

The ensuring onside kick-off was recovered by Stinger Henry Dalton (7) and Novato had the ball yet again. This time it didn't last, as the Steelers recovered a fumble and then started a long march down the field. With a rushing touchdown at 6:14 in the fourth-quarter, the game was a tighter-than-comfortable 14-6.

Lathrop tried an onside-kick of their own on the ensuing kick-off but Moses Johnson (47) neatly caught the ball for the Stingers. After a time-draining drive Putman broke through for a 6-yard touchdown. With Alvarez's third two-point PAT the Stingers led 24-6 with 2:14 to play.

As it has all year, the Stinger defense came up big, stopping Lathrop's attempt to march down the field. After taking the ball back on downs, Novato kneeled on the ball a couple of times and it was all over and the Stingers were the MVL PeeWee Division II champs!

Final Score: Novato Stingers 24, Lathrop Steelers 6

Next Up: AYF National Championship in Orlando, Florida!

Here are some highlight photos from the Stingers MVL SuperBowl win.

Alec Ball (12) breaks out for a touchdown in the first quarter.

Robbie Cassée (16) has a clutch catch an run to the 3 in the second-quarter.

Marc Alvarez (21) kicks the first of three 2-point PATs on the day

Henry Dalton (7) pounces on an onside-kick in the third-quarter

It's a bird. It's a plane. No, it's SuperBen Putman (10) flying for yards in the second-half.

Moses Johnson (47) makes a critical recovery on a Lathrop onside-kick

Offense wins games but swarming Stinger defense wins championships!

Celebration! Yes, we're going to Orlando...

'09 Football Playoffs - Novato Stingers vs. Southern Marin Broncos

2009-11-17T11:36:00.000-08:00

Coach Jones telling the Stingers "that's two-down with one more to go" following the game

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Mountain Valley Youth Football League - 2009 PeeWee Division II Playoffs

Game Summary

The second round of the 2009 PeeWee Division II Playoffs for the Mountain Valley League of American Youth Football took place on Sunday, November 15th at Marin Catholic High School. The Novato Stingers, seeded #1, where officially the home team and played in their black uniforms. As the visiing team, Southern Marin, seeded #4, wore their white uniforms.

Southern Marin won the coin toss and elected to receive the ball. The Stinger defense established itself again, holding the Broncos on their opening drive and getting the ball back on the 35 yard-line. On Novato's first offensive play, Ben Putman (10) took the ball 65-yards down the right sideline for a quick score, giving the Stingers a quick 6-0 lead with 7:44 left in the first-quarter.

It looked like the Stingers would take control when Alec Ball (12) recovered the ensuing kick-off to give Novato the ball back. But the Broncos intercepted a long pass on the drive and the defensive struggle was on.

Danny Dreher (5) took the ball back with an interception at 1:30 in the first-quarter but the offense couldn't capitalize on the takeover. The second-quarter was hard-nosed football, with the Stinger defense, especially a fiesty Putman, clamping down the Bronco offense. The teams went into halftime with the Stingers up 6-0.

The second-half proved much the same, with Novato getting the ball first but turning it back over on downs. Dreher came up big again with another interceptions with 1:31 left in the third-quarter. The Broncos defense held firm and Novato had to give the ball back.

The fourth-quarter was similar until Novato got the ball back in Bronco territory with only minutes remaining. After a short drive, Putman broke one through the middle for a 30-yard touchdown. Coupled with a Marc Alvarez (21) two-point PAT field-goal, the Stingers were up 14-0 with only 1:31 left in the game.

Which put the game in the hands of the stingy Stinger defense one last time. And they came up big yet again. This time it was Hunter Wegner (18) with an interception with less than a minute remaining. After a final offensive play the hard-fought battle was over and the Stingers won the right to move on to the championship game.

"Southern Marin played a great game today," said Head Coach John Jones, "we had to give it everything we had to pull this one out. Our boys played hard, but our defense really had to step it up to make sure we came out on top. We can celebrate the win today, but we have a lot to do this week to get ready for a very tough Lathrop squad next weekend."

Final Score: Novato Stingers 14, Southern Marin Broncos 0

Next Up: Lathrop Steelers

NOTE: As of the time of this posting, the championship game is planned for Saturday, November 21 at Lincoln High School in Stockton, CA. I'll post any changes here...

Here are some photo highlights from the game:

A hard tackle on the Broncos opening drive

Ben Putman (10) breaks away for a touchdown on the Stingers first offensive play

Alec Ball (12) recovers the onside kick following the TD

Putman outjumps the Bronco receiver the knock it away!

Danny Dreher (5) intercepts a pass in the 1st Quarter, his first of two on the day!

It's just out of reach for Robbie Cassée (16) on this 2nd Quarter pass

The Stingers "D" swarms a Bronco like it did all day long

Marc Alvarez (21) sacks the Bronco QB for a huge loss late in the game

Putman bursts through the line for another TD late in the game to seal the Stinger win

'09 Football Playoffs - Novato Stingers vs. Esparto Spartans

2009-11-09T13:45:00.000-08:00

Danny Dreher and Ben Putman showing their Novato pride for the playoffs!

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Mountain Valley Youth Football League - 2009 PeeWee Division II Playoffs

Game Summary

The first round of the 2009 PeeWee Division II Playoffs for the Mountain Valley League (MVL) of American Youth Football (AYF) took place on Sunday, November 8th in Northern California. The Novato Stingers entered the playoffs seeded first with an official record of 6-1 (7-1 overall). The eighth-seeded Esparto Spartans travelled to the Novato High School field for an 11 AM game on a beautiful sunny day for football.

Novato lost the coin toss and Esparto elected to receive the ball to start the game. Things started off well for the Stingers as Ben Putman (10) returned to action after a 4-game stint on the injured reserve, and promptly stripped the Spartan kick-returner of the ball and Henry Dalton (7) pounced on the fumble to give Novato the ball in Spartan territory. The Stinger Offense quickly established itself as Alec Ball (12) ran the ball for a 28-yard touchdown which Marc Alvarez (21) followed with a 2-point PAT field goal giving Novato a 8-0 lead.

The Novato defense quickly showed its stuff too, holding Esparto to a rapid 4-down and out on their first drive. It was an often repeated theme throughout the rest of the afternoon.

The Stingers second drive went 3-plays, capped by a 15-yard Tommy Sanz (13) pass to a wide-open Robbie Cassée (16) for a touchdown. The PAT attempt was thwarted by Esparto, making it 14-0 for Novato.

After holding Esparto to another 4-and-out, Novato drove the field for another score, this one a 12-yard pass from Sanz to a wide-open Dalton for another six points and a 20-0 lead.

On the Spartans third drive, Novato held tight again for a 4-and-out and then the offense took two plays for another score - this time a 42-yard run by Putman puting the Stingers up 26-0. A significant lead already, early in the second-quarter, and they were only getting warmed up!

The Spartans drove for a first down in their next drive, but the defense held tight once again taking the ball over on downs. Novato's fifth drive again resulted in a score, this time a 10-yard run by Ball and another 2-point kick by Alvarez for a 34-0 lead going into half-time.

Novato received the ball first in the second-half and promptly drove the field again. This time, Angelo Lagomarsino (9) pushed the ball in for a 2-yard score. The Stingers were hit with a big 15-yard penalty on the PAT attempt, pushing them to the 20 yard line. Undaunted, Sanz quickly hit Cassée on a quick out and he barreled his way in for another point and a 41-0 lead.

Things went from bad to worse for the Spartans, as Danny Dreher (5) intercepted the ball on the third play of Esparto's next drive. Novato quickly capitalized again, this time on a 50-yard, sideline-to-sideline scramble by Alvarez, and a 47-0 score.

The Stingers took the ball away again on the next drive when Cassée stripped the ball and Hunter Wegner (18) quickly recovered the fumble. Alvarez scored again, this time on a 35-yard run, and Lagomarsino followed it with a rushing PAT.

The defense made it three-take-aways-in-a-row, when Paul Kunst (24) intercepted a pass on the Spartans next drive. Novato quickly scored again on a 55-yard touchdown run by Ball.

Novato held Esparto to a 4-and-out again and Chris Folsom (25) capped a drive with a 3-yard touchdown run wrapping up the scoring on the day.

"The kids really played well on both sides of the ball today," said Coach John Jones. "The defense locked them down while the offense had a perfect day (10 touchdowns in 10 drives!) We'll work hard again this week to make sure we're ready for round two."

Final Score: Novato Stingers 67, Esparto Spartans 0

Next Up: Southern Marin Broncos

Here's are some photographic highlights from the game:

Ben Putman (10) is back with a vengence, stripping the ball on the opening kick-off

Alec Ball (12) follows Angelo Lagomarsino's (9) block on one of his 3 TD runs

Robbie Cassée (16) running to the end-zone after a catch

Henry Dalton (7) awaits the ball on the way to his touchdown

Marc Alvarez (21) jukes on a 50-yard sideline-to-sideline touchdown run

Cassée strips the ball and Hunter Wegner (18) gets ready to pounce on the ball.

The defense harassing the Spartans again.

Cheers! - Jason

Novato Yellow Jackets Oct. 31+ Game Photos

2009-11-02T09:39:00.000-08:00

Hello Yellow Jackets Fans,

I've been a bit behind but have now caught up. If you'd like to see photos of the Yellow Jackets in action against Johnson, Weston Ranch and Rio Vista check them out at http://novatoyellowjackets.shutterfly.com/.

Black and Gold! All day, everyday! No Mercy!

/Bill Kelly

Novato Stingers vs Florin Phantoms - Oct. 24

2009-10-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

The Stingers swarm the Florin Phantoms in Stockton

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game Summary
The Novato Stingers travelled to Stockton for a hot saturday afternoon game against the Florin Phantoms at Weston Ranch High School. Novato won the coin toss and quickly got things rolling on the offensive side with a two-play drive as Alec Ball (12) ran for a 22-yard touchdown only 42 seconds into the game. The PAT attempt was no good so the Stingers were up 6-0.

The Novato defense stopped the first Florin drive flat for a quick 4-and-out to get the ball back. It was a theme that would be repeated throughout the day as the swarming Stinger defense locked-down another opponent.

Novato scored again with another quick two-play drive, capped by a 13-yard Angelo Lagomarsino (9) run and a Danny Dreher (5) recovery in the end-zone for a touchdown. Mark Alvarez (21) kicked a two-point PAT to bring the score to 14-0.

Lagomarsino's ensuing onside kickoff was recovered by Ball and the Stingers were quickly at it again. Chris Folsom (25) back from a three-week layoff for an injury ran the ball 35-yards for a touchdown with 5:39 remaining in the second-quarter. With the addition of another Alvarez two-point PAT, the Stingers were up 22-0.

Novato added another quick score on Florin's next drive when Daylan Birlin (59) intercepted a pass and returned it 10-yards for a touchdown. Folsom ran for the PAT and Novato lead 29-0.

The Stingers would score once more in the first-half, when quarterback Tommy Sanz (13) hit a wide open Robbie Cassée (16) in the end-zone for a 9-yard touchdown with 2:30 remaining in the half. With the score 35-0 the "mercy rule" was invoked meaning the clock would run unstopped for the remainder of the game and that Novato could no longer pass and only run the ball between the tackles.

Novato would have scored once more in the fourth quarter on a 60-yard run by Ball with 6:30 remaining.

The Novato defense returned with a vengeance and held the Phantoms to no-first downs and no points in the game, giving the Stingers seven shutouts on the year.

Final Score: Novato Stingers 35*, Florin Phantoms 0
*mercy rule invoked with 2:30 remaining in the second-quarter

2009 Regular Season Scoring: Novato Stingers 209, Opponents 19

2009 Regular Season Record: 7-1

Here are some additional photo highlights from the game.

Alec Ball (12) busts loose for the game's first score!

Angelo Lagomarsino (9) pulls a pile of Florin tacklers toward the end-zone...

...and Danny Dreher (5) smothers the loose ball in the end-zone for a TD

Daylan Birlin (59) ruturns a 2nd Quarter interception for a touchdown

Chris Folsom (25) returns to action with a bang with this 35-yard TD run

Robbie Cassée (16) is all alone in the end-zone for a 2nd Quarter TD catch

A Florin runner learns what it's like to run into a swarm of Stingers

...more swarming Stingers piling on a Florin runner

Coach Rich Putman gets soaked in the post-game celebration

Cheers! - Jason

Novato Stingers vs Johnson Warriors - Oct. 18

2009-10-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

Paul Kunst (24) gets behind the Johnson defense for a catch, long-run and TD!

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game Summary

In their away white jerseys and home black pants, the Stingers hosted the Johnson Warriors on a sunny, cool and windy day at the Novato High School field. Novato won the coin toss and got the ball first and things looked good to start as Alec Ball (12) had a stong return and the Stingers started with excellent field position. But the Warriors held the Stingers to a three-and-out and the game quickly devolved into a defensive struggle. The Stingers threatened to score with the ball inside the Warriors five-yard line, but were unable to do so. At the end of the first quarter the game was still scoreless.

With 6:00 minutes remaining in the second quarter, the vaunted Stingers defense finally yielded their first points of the year, after 25 straight shutout quarters. After a long touchdown run, Johnson scored the PAT and Novato was down for the first time all year, 0-7.

The Stingers quickly drove the ball back down the field on a combination of strong running and pass plays culminating with a critical fourth down attempt on the two-yard line. The Johnson line stopped Novato's attempt and took over on their own 1-yard line. Unfortunately, the Johnson running back burst through the middle on the very next play and ran the entire 99-yards for a seconds score. The teams went to half-time with Johnson up 13-0.

Novato came on strong in the second-half, with Johnny Viezcas (82) recovering Angelo Lagomarsino's (9) opening kick-off giving the ball to the Stingers. Novato wasn't able to capitalize and gave the ball back to Johnson. The Novato defense then had a stop when a swarm of defenders combined to strip a Johnson runner of the ball and it ended up in the hands of Hunter Wegner (18). That's when the Novato offense really came alive, with Ball throwing a half-back pass to a streaking Paul Kunst (24) who got behind the Johnson defender, caught a deflected ball and ran for a long touchdown. Mark Alvarez (21) kicked a two-point PAT and Novato was only down 13-8 with 3:10 left in the third quarter.

Novato made a big play on the ensuing kick-off, with Alvarez pouncing on another Lagomarsino onside kick. Alvarez followed it up with a streaking 21-yard run and Novato was seemingly back in control. Only, this time it wasn't meant to be. Novato fumbled on the Johnson 25 and gave back the ball.

In the fourth quarter, Johnson intercepted a long pass and then returned it for their third touchdown of the day with 7:18 left in the game. They missed the PAT, but Novato was down 19-8 and time was running out.

While Novato couldn't pull together another score in the final minutes, defensive lineman Ryan Johnson (54) gave them one last chance with a late fumble recovery in Warrior territory.

"This is a tough loss for us," said Coach John Jones, "but the kids played hard and didn't give up. We really beat ourselves in this one. I guess it will be a good lesson as we look at closing out the regular season next week and prepare for the playoffs."

Final Score: Johnson Warriors 19, Novato Stingers 8

2009 Stingers Record: 6-1

Defensive Points Allowed: 19! (over 7 games)

While the outcome wasn't what we were used to, the game was still exciting. Here are some pictures highlighting the great play during the day.

Quarterback Tommy Sanz (13) rolls out right and throws...

...to a diving Robbie Cassée (16) for a catch during the Stingers second drive

The Stingers give up their first points of the year after 25 shutout quarters

Daniel Hopkins (33) fires up the Stingers at half-time

Johnny Viezcas (82) comes up with his second onside kick in two weeks!

A Novato "swarm" strips the ball and Hunter Wegner (18) ends up with it

Mark Alvarez (21) comes up with an onside kick in the third-quarter

Daronn McCall (14) fights for yards in the fourth-quarter

Ryan Johnson (54) fights for a fumble late in the game

Cheers! - Jason

Novato Yellow Jackets Oct. 11 Game Photos

2009-10-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

Chris Righetti (25) shedding tacklers on his way to a big gain

Hello Yellow Jackets Fans,

Sunday’s overcast, cold weather was a perfect back drop to the Yellow Jacket’s convincing win over the Central Marin Chargers! If you would like to check out the photos please do so at http://novatoyellowjackets.shutterfly.com/.

With the exception of McCoy Wegner’s first TD catch of the season, Coach Wood used Sunday’s game to fine tune the ground game. The loaded backfield of Chris Righetti, Tyler Torres, Ian Roberts, Juan Carlos O’Neil, Damien Lagomarsino and Nathaniel Barkus proved too powerful and punishing for Central Marin. On defense, Coach Trahan’s unit displayed a physical and aggressive style of play providing the Chargers with plenty of bumps and bruises, and very few offensive yards!

Nice job guys.

Black and gold. All day, every day. NO MERCY!

/Bill

Novato Stingers vs Rancho Cotate 2 - Oct. 11

2009-10-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

Mark Alvarez (21) on his way to six with a little help from Robbie Cassée (16)

Danny Dreher (5) upends a flying Cougar in the second-half

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game Summary

The Stingers hosted the Rancho Cotate Cougars at the Novato High School field for a rare home-and-home opportunity. While the teams have played twice in 15 days, this time the chilly, overcast playing conditions in Novato were in stark contrast to the 100°scorcher in Rohnert Park on September 27th.

The Stingers won the coin toss and elected to take the ball first. The Novato offense wasted no time at all as quarterback Tommy Sanz (13) quickly teamed up with Mark Alvarez (21) for a 42-yard catch and run for at touchdown. Angelo Lagomarsino (9) followed it up with a run for the extra point and the Stingers were up 7-0 after two plays.

Things only got better for Novato as Johnny Viezcas (82) recovered an onside kick-off and the Stinger offense was at it again. After a quick drive down the field, Alvarez ran the ball in from the 3-yard line for his, and the team's, second touchdown of the day.

With Novato up 13-0 the second quarter proved to be a tight defensive struggle, with the teams exchanging the ball on downs a few times before the Stingers broke through again after a long drive. Lagomarsino walked into the end-zone for a score at 2:30 left in the half and Sanz hooked up with tight-end Robbie Cassée (16) for a catch and run for the PAT. The teams left the field at half-time with Novato up 20-0.

Novato came out strong again in the second-half, with the defense giving up only two more first down, for a total of three on the day. After holding the Cougars on their opening drive, Novato quickly scored again, this time on a 35-yard touchdown pass from Sanz to a streaking Cassée who was wide-open down the middle of the field. Alec Ball (12) ran the ball in for the PAT and a 27-0 lead.

The Stingers closed out the scoring with 1:30 left in the third-quarter on a 15-yard touchdown run by Ball. With the score at 33-0 the "mercy" rule was invoked for the fourth straight game and the game wound down quickly under a running clock.

"I'm really proud of the guys today," said head coach John Jones. "We were down a couple of key players today and the team really stepped it up to cover for them. Some of our regulars elevated their game and a few others filled in with some great play. Like I told the kids all week, we have good players and even though we have a few guys out, we can continue to win if we work together."

Final Score: Novato Stingers 33*, Rancho Cotate Cougars 0
* Mercy rule invoked with just over a minute left in the third-quarter

2009 Stingers Record: 6-0

Defensive Points Allowed So Far: 0 !!!!!

Johnny Viezcas (82) comes up with the ball on our 1st kick-off

Mark Alvarez (21) sheds another tackle on the way to his second TD

Robbie Cassée (16) hauls in a Tommy Sanz pass on the way to six

Angelo Lagomarsino (9) pushes his way in for six

Alec Ball (12) has the goal-line in sight!

Daronn McCall (14) runs for a bunch in the third-quarter

Hunter Wegner (18) gets mauled from behind by a Cougar

Cheers! - Jason

Novato Yellow Jackets Oct. 4 Game Photos

2009-10-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

Joe Kelly (85) catching the ball on the way to a touchdown!

Hey Novato Yellow Jackets Fans,

The photos of this week's win over Esparto are now available at
http://novatoyellowjackets.shutterfly.com/. Check 'em out.

Black and gold. All day, everyday. No Mercy!!

/Bill Kelly

Novato Stingers vs Esparto Spartans - Oct. 4

2009-10-05T11:37:00.000-07:00

Chris Folsom (25) strips the ball on the Spartans opening drive!

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game Summary

The Stingers played their second home game of the season, this time against the Esparto Spartans on a warm, breezy day at Novato High School. In a rare change-of-pace, the team wore their white "away" jerseys with the "home" black pants to better offset the dark blue Spartans uniforms. What did not change was the way the Stingers defense swarmed the opposition. While allowing only three first-downs on the day, Novato held Esparto scoreless, making it five straight shut-outs for the Stingers.

And while the defense held firm, the offense was off and running early. After winning the coin toss, Novato elected to receive the ball and quickly drove the field. Ben Putman (10) ran for a quick 2-yard touchdown and followed it up with a rushing PAT giving the Stingers a 7-0 lead.

Not to be outdone, the defense quickly took the ball back when Chris Folsom (25) stripped the ball and Robbie Cassée (16) pounced on the fumble.

It got ugly from there, as speedy Alec Ball (12) racked-up rushing touchdowns of 13, 60 and 30-yards to give the Stingers a 28-0 lead by early in the second quarter. With 1:30 left in the first-half, Mark Alvarez (21) scored on a 60-yard catch and run for a touchdown bringing the score to 34-0 and invoking the "mercy rule" for the third-straight game. That meant no more "official" scoring for either team, and the Stingers could only run the ball between the tackles while the clock would run without stopping for the rest of the game.

While quick, the second-half was more of the same, with the Stingers defense holding firm, and the offense moving the ball on the ground. On their second drive of the half, Putman ran the ball 15-yards into the end-zone with 1:10 left in the third quarter officially not-scoring what would have been another 6 points. He actually had to do it twice because the first time it he was called back for running outside the tackle, negating the play.

In all, another commanding performance by the entire Stingers team who were playing a little short-handed with two starters out for the game.

"The kids played great again today," said head coach John Jones after the game. "Next week, we'll line 'em up and play hard again. These guys just don't let up, which is good because we're sure to face some stiff competition as we work through the second-half of the season."

Final Score: Novato Stingers 34*, Esparto Spartans 0

2009 Stingers Record: 5-0

Defensive Points Allowed: 0 !!!!!

* The mercy rule was invoked before the end of the first-half

Ben Putman (10) on the first of his two end-zone runs of the day.

Alec Ball (12) rushing for one of his three touchdowns on the day.

Mark Alvarez (21) caps a 60-yard catch and run for the score.

Robbie Cassee (16) and Hunter Wegner (18) harass the Spartan QB

Paul Kunst (24) tackles a Spartan for a loss.

Cheers! - Jason

Novato Stingers vs Rancho Cotate - Sept. 28

2009-09-28T14:44:00.000-07:00

Novato players wear their game stickers with pride.

The Novato Stingers defense again held the opponents scoreless!

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game Summary

The Stingers descended upon the grass turf at Mountain Shadows Middle School for 2:00 PM game against the Rancho Cotate Cougars. With the game time the temperature approaching 100 degrees it promised to be a scorcher.

The Broncos won the coin toss and elected to take the ball first. This meant the Novato defense had the opportunity to quickly establish itself again with couple of solid defensive stops and an Alec Ball (12) interception of a short pass in Rancho Cotate territory. The Stinger offense took advantage of the field position with a short drive and a Ben Putman (10) touchdown run for 10 yards followed by a 2-point PAT kick by Mark Alvarez (21) (Note: at this level the kicking PATs are worth 2-points and the running PATs are worth 1 point). Stingers up 8-0 early.

After another stingy defensive stand, Novato got the ball back deep in Cougar territory. Ball quickly took the ball 27 yards for a touchdown. The PAT kick was low, making it 14-0.

Heading to the second-quarter, the defense held again, capped by Robbie Cassée's (16) blocked punt giving the Stingers the ball back in Cougar territory. Ball quickly ran the ball to the 2, setting up quarterback Tommy Sanz's (13) first touchdown of the year. Alvarez followed it up with another 2-point PAT kick giving Novato a 22-0 lead at half-time.

The second-half proved no different for Novato with a strong opening drive capped by Alvarez's 40-yard touchdown run to make the score 28-0.

Following a Cougar fumble with 2:45 left in the third-quarter, the Stingers drove the field again culminating in Ball's 7-yard touchdown run to bring the score to 34-0, invoking the "mercy rule" again.

With the scoring capped, the Stingers would have scored again on their last play, a 60-yard run by Putman, but the buzzer sounded for a hard-fought 34-0 Novato win.

While the entire defense made the difference all day, Gene Peugh-Wade (8), Hunter Wegner (18) and Chris Fulsom (25) stood out for exceptional plays.

Final Score: Novato Stingers 34, Rancho Cotate Cougars 0

2009 Stingers Record: 4-0

Defensive Points Allowed So Far: 0 !!!!!

Gene Peugh-Wade (8) makes a spectacular tackle in the 2nd Quarter

Hunter Wegner (18) sacks the Cougar quarterback.

Ben Putman (10) dives in for the first TD of the game

Tommy Sanz (13) lines up over center before diving in for a TD

Mark Alvarez (21) runs for a TD - he also accounted for 4 points kicking PATs.

Alec Ball (12) runs for his first of two TDs on the day.

Cheers! - Jason

Novato Yellow Jackets Sept. 28 Game Photos

2009-09-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

Yellow Jackets Fans,

Not that any of us want to dwell on Sunday's game, but I have posted photos at http://novatoyellowjackets.shutterfly.com/

“Build up your weaknesses until they become your strong points.” --Knute Rockne

Black and Gold! All Day, Everyday! No Mercy!

/Bill Kelly

Novato Yellow Jackets Sept. 19 Game Photos

2009-09-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

Joe Kelly (85) goes up for a catch in the end-zone

The Novato Yellow Jackets defeated the Napa Raiders 34-0 on September 19th at Silverado Middle School in Napa.

The Yellow Jackets were SWARMING Napa on Saturday! If you missed any of the action check out the photos of the game at the Novato Yellow Jackets Football site

Black and Gold. All day, everyday. No Mercy!

/Bill Kelly

Novato Stingers vs Napa Raiders - Sept. 19

2009-09-21T10:21:00.000-07:00

Ronnie Lott poses with the Novato Stingers at half-time

Mark Alvarez (21) kicks for a 2-point PAT. Alvarez accounted for 11-points on the day!

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game Summary

The Novato Stingers swarmed the new field at Napa's Silverado Middle School and kept their unblemished record alive with another great performance. The defense was outstanding again holding Napa scoreless and four different Stingers came up with big interceptions on the day. The first was a huge take-away by Danny Dreher (5) who then ran the ball for a touchdown in the first quarter. Not to be oudone, Dreher's defensive teammates Jordan Polera (6), Henry Dalton (7) and Paul Kunst (24) all had interceptions of their own during the game.

As good as the defense continues to be, the offense was equally up to the task on this sunny day in the wine-country. The scoring starting on the first drive with a Tommy Sanz (13) to Robbie Cassée (16) touchdown pass up the middle. Both that touchdown and the ensuing interception and return by Dreher were followed by 2-point PATs by Mark Alvarez (21) puting Novato up 16-0 early in the first quarter.

The Stingers scored almost at will in the first half. Touchdown runs by Alec Ball (12) and Ben Putman (10) were followed up with 1-point PATs on a run by Alvarez and another catch by Cassée to make it 30-0 in the second quarter. Alvarez capped the official scoring with a long touchdown run down the left sideline to close the first half with the Stingers up 36-0.

Half-time included a once-in-a-lifetime opportuniy, with former San Francisco Forty-Niner and Oakland Raider great Ronnie Lott paying a visit to watch Novato in action. The players all lined up to shake Ronnie's hand and then had the chance to say hello and get a signature. While the boys may not have fully appreciated the greatness they were meeting, their parents certainly did, so it was a very special day.

With Novato scoring over 30 points, the "mercy rule" was invoked in the second half so the Stingers were limited to running the ball between the tackles, no passing and no further official point scoring. That didn't keep the Stinger offense from crossing into the end-zone a few more times though. The first was a unique opportunity for offensive lineman Brandon Caamal (43) on a fumble recovery and run to the end-zone for a should-have-been touchdown. And the final was a long run by Chris Fulsom (25) to daylight in the fourth quarter.

And through it all the Stinger defense was stingy once again and didn't give up a point all day. That means the swarming "D" has only given 11 first downs, TOTAL, in three games!

Defensive standouts of note included Eugene Peugh-Wade, Sean McDevitt, Willie Cesterollo, Johnny Viezcas, Ryan Johnson, Hunter Wegner and Daylan Birlin.

Offensive standouts included Michael Sumpter-Blakely, Andrew Larkin, Joseph Navarro, Leonardo Madrigal, Moses Johnson and Anthony Balestreiri.

Final Score: Novato Stingers 36*, Napa Raiders 0
Stingers Record: 3-0

* The mercy rule was invoked at the end of the second quarter

Here are some additional highlight photos from the game:

Robbie Cassée (16) catches it for 6-points to start the scoring on the day.

Danny Dreher (5) scores after picking the ball off in the first quarter.

Alec Ball (12) on his way to a touchdown

Ben Putman (10) scores another touchdown in the second quarter.

Paul Kunst (24) comes down with an interception in the fourth quarter.

Brandon Caamal (43) crosses the end-zone to "score" in the third quarter

Cheers! - Jason

Novato Yellow Jackets Sept. 13 Game Photos

2009-09-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

We had a tough game on Sunday, but our boys will regroup this week in preparation for the game against Napa. In the meantime, if you are interested in seeing photos from the September 13, 2009 game against Southern Marin check out http://novatoyellowjackets.shutterfly.com/. There are two albums - mine (Kelly) and Jason Cassée's.

Black and Gold. All day, everyday. No Mercy!

/Bill Kelly

Novato Stingers vs Southern Marin - Sept. 13

2009-09-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

Game was Sunday, September 13, 2009 at Novato High School

Note: This article was previously published on Minding My Own Beeswax by Jason Cassée on September 14, 2009.

The Stingers brought crunching, swarming defense all day long!

The photos from this Novato Stingers game are now available on the 2009 Novato Stingers Shutterfly site.

Game Summary

The Novato Stingers played their first home game of the season against cross-county rival, the Southern Marin Broncos, a strong team that went undefeated last year. The game started off well with the Stingers getting the ball first and then marching down the field under the fine quarterbacking of Tommy Sanz and a pesky running game. After pounding the ball on the ground, tight-end Robbie Cassée found himself wide open down the middle for a 20-yard touchdown pass from Sanz. Half-back Ben Putman put the on the finishing touch running for the PAT and Novato had the early lead 7-0.

That's when the Stinger defense got it's first chance of the day. With solid play by the defensive line, they held the Broncos in check and quickly got the ball back for the offense. And it was a routine that would be repeated throughout the day.

After Daylan Birlin recovered the ball when the Broncos mishandled a second quarter punt, the Stingers again drove the field and this time the running game did all the work. The capper was a long run by running-back Angelo Lagomarsino who took the ball around the right end and banged his way through four Bronco tacklers to get into the end-zone for a touchdown.

Novato left the field at half-time with a hard fought 13-0 lead.

The good news in the second-half was Novato wasn't through on the offense side of the ball. Putman took the ball around the left side and wove his way through the Bronco defense for a touchdown on a long run in the third quarter.

The scoring was capped in the third-quarter when running-back Alec Ball ripped off a long run to the left side for another touchdown.

As good as the Stinger offense was, it was the defense that provided the difference in the game. Building on the first-half performance, both the Black and the Gold defenses combined to hold the Broncos to a total of three first-downs and no scoring on the day. Swarms of Novato tacklers converged on every Southern Marin player who handled the ball, and there were no significant penalties to detract from the performance on the field.

"I really liked what I saw from the defensive today," said Stinger head-coach John Jones. "The boys really set a tone today and shut down a really good offense all day!"

Final Score: Novato Stingers 25, Southern Marin Broncos 0

2009 Stingers Record: 2-0

Robbie Cassée is all alone for a catch and run for a touchdown

Daylan Birlin comes up with the ball after a Bronco fumble

Angelo Lagomarsino crosses the end-zone after running over 4 tacklers

Ben Putman eyeing the end-zone on his way to a long touchdown

Alec Ball leads a herd of Broncos to the end-zone

Coach John Jones enjoys the Stingers second win of the season

Cheers! - Jason

Welcome to the Novato Sports Blog

2009-09-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Novato sports enthusiasts.

Welcome to the new blog dedicated to bringing you information and updates about all things sports in Novato. While I realize that it will take some time to get there, my goal is to create a place where you can expect to find what you want to know about the wide variety of amateur sports teams and individual athletes from our favorite California city.

Of course, I'm going to need a lot of help to make this happen. Unfortunately, there isn't much that gets published in the local Novato Advance and Marin IJ because they simply don't have the resources to make it happen. But I know there is already a whole army of people out there who can track and submit scores, updates, rosters, etc. that represent a veritable goldmine of local sports information screaming for publication.

And that, my friends, is where all of you come in. As a Novato sports enthusiast you are either a purveyor of Novato sports information or you know someone who is. So when you have a final score from you son or daughter's baseball, soccer, football, basketball, lacrosse or any other game, event or competition, just think of sending it here for publication. Or, if you have information or know about an article that has been posted about a Novato athelete, send it on it. Same goes for photos of Novato teams and athletes in action. I only ask that if you have more that a few photos PLEASE post them on Shutterfly, Flickr, Photobucket, ImageShack, or the image posting site of your choice and then send me a link and details about what is available there.

I'm sure there will be more that I'll need to tell you about and ask you for in the future, but I'll add those as they come up. For now, I just want to see what we can all do to start bringing more visibility to Novato sports.

Cheers! - Jason