By Thomas Gutierrez
Oceanside CA— It has been three years since Coach David Rodriguez has taken over the helm of legendary coach John Carroll. Going into his fourth season as the Oceanside Pirates head coach, expectations have not changed for the prestige’s program that has dominated and established San Diego football beyond the 760, 619, and 858 area codes. “I still cannot believe that it has been 3 years. Being the Pirate head coach in 2018 is still as exciting as it was on my first day,” expressed Rodriguez. And the new head coach delivered some Pirate treasure during his first season in 2015. The energetic Rodriguez (23-15, 1 CIF Championship) completed his first season with an impressive 9-4 record while capturing their 16th CIF Championship. But don’t get it wrong, the 2015 season was more than a point of reference; they want to continue the success in the Rodriguez era. After a subpar 2017 season (6-7 overall, 1-5 league play), the 2018 Pirates certainly have the motivation and a plan to get back on track to their traditional Pirate ways.
You have no better player to lead the trek to the top with one of the top offensive weapons in the county, Kyrin Beachum. Converted from receiver to quarterback during the 2017 season, Beachum put up massive stats in his brief time behind center (passing 712 yards and 5 TDs, running 970 yards and 6 TDs). With a gritty and competitive group of receivers to throw to, which include Keilan Duson, Dylan York, Hunter Stowe, and Kiki Laie they will keep defenses on their heels. Also igniting the offense will be sensational running back Kavika Tua, only a freshman last season; he helped rejuvenate the Pirates during the postseason. Completing the offense with a total average weight of 275Lbs, the offensive line with Salo Lologo, Moises Ross, Jack Berry, Christopher Hunter, and 390-pound William Tuisee will provide a wall and open up paths for the Pirate playmakers.
On the defensive side of the ball it starts up front with the defensive line featuring the familiar names of Kiki Laie, Keilan Duson, William Tuisee, Andres Arreola, Mike Ives, and Cameron Lyles. “With the nature of offense we are expecting, our defensive line will be able to give the back half guys (LB/DB) of our defense a chance at a fair fight,” noted Rodriguez. The heart and soul of the Pirate defense will rest in the hands of the linebacker core. This passionate and close knit group rotates around Johnny Egler, Joseph Moreno, Hunter Stowe, Angel Aspeytia, Jay Saavedra, Damani Tu’ua and Marcus Fesli. “Each brings a different quality as it is an eclectic group. However, they are a tight unit and love competition,” explained Rodriguez. “And with the nature of wide open offenses, we are working to shrink the passing lanes.” Rounding out the defense is a young group of defensive backs who are lead by junior Trejan Apodaca. Helping the young veteran will be El Camino transfer Jaylin Moncrief and a rotation of young and talented players Ja’Quez Goodson, Alex Sarabia, and Dishawn Stuard who will each play vital roles for the success of the Pirate defense.
With the team in place, an exceptional coaching staff and clean slate, now it’s time to buckle your seatbelts for a fun and wild ride through the ultra competitive Avocado League and 2018 season