Culver City High School’s football team is embedded in a four-way tie for first place in the Ocean League, but that will change on Friday night.
Deadlocked with El Segundo, Lawndale and Hawthorne at 2-1, the Centaurs will host Santa Monica on Senior Night at 7 o’clock inside the Jerry Chabola Stadium.
Culver City, 5-3 overall, is ranked No. 2 in CIF Division 11. Santa Monica, 4-4, is 1-2 in the league.
“Santa Monica is an improved ball club,” said Culver City Coach Jahmal Wright after their 62-35 win at Hawthorne last Friday night. “They have a very good fullback and linebacker. Their quarterback is very active, and they play with a lot of spirit and heart. We look forward to the challenge.”
Centaur quarterback Jonathan Martin, who loves challenges, answers the bell when his number is called. He has thrown for 2,176 yards and 25 touchdowns in eight games.
Nevertheless, the junior stays humble.
“Our whole team is executing,” Martin said after throwing four touchdown passes on a 16-for-22 night for 201 yards.
Martin also ran for a touchdown.
“We have balanced attack,” he said.
We can run the ball, which opens up the passing game. “We have great receivers.”
Martin sees a sunny immediate future.
“We can make a deep run in the playoffs if we play together,” he said. “If it comes down to close games we can win.’
Here are two reasons Martin is enjoying a spectacular season:
- “I always try to focus on the big picture and
- “I try to correct my mistakes.”
Another humble Culver City player who is trying to stay at the top of his game is all-purpose star Charles Ross. He plays offense, defense and special teams.
Against Hawthorne, he intercepted two passes.
“It felt good to get those interceptions,” said Ross. “I was injured, so the coaches did not want me to get the ball that much on offense. I had to make up for it on defense.
Ross’s goal is unmistakable:
“I just want to win the league championship,” he said.
“That starts with beating Santa Monica.”
Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley50@aol.com
Mr. Laase may be contacted at GMLaase@aol.com
