The front seven of the Culver City defense may be the best in the league and propel the Centaurs deep into the playoffs. Culver High, a wild card team, reached the CIF championship game last season.
Coach Jahmal Wright has several standout state-ranked returning players.
“The Culver City defensive team will have size, speed, and talent. I’m excited about the defense as a whole and the possibility of what we will become,” said Wright.
The Centaurs return one of the best defensive linemen in Southern California. Six foot-two inch 275 lb. team captain Deon Young was selected first team All-State by Scout and Fox Sports. He runs a 4.9 40. “Young is a three year starter and the cornerstone of our defensive line and will be a force to be reckoned with in the Ocean League,” said Wright.
Senior Kevin Melendez brings a tenacious spirit in a 5’10” 240 lb. package. The Centaurs are depending on the two-year starter to lead the defense.
Wright expects a breakout season for athletic senior defensive lineman Delwaun Beard “Delwaun had an excellent off-season and has turned his body into a machine,” said Wright.
Adding depth to the defensive line are Mark Ordon, Devan Carton, Martin Escobar, Joe Morales, Alexander Donis, Steve Sorano, and Justin Terry.
Prep Sports editor for the L.A. Times, Eric Sondheimer, recently said senior linebacker Keishawn Haley (6’1” 220) is one of the top 10 linebackers in Southern California. The two year starter and team captain was the leading tackler on the team with over 12 tackles a game last year.
“We’re looking for the same in 2012. Keishawn should be the top linebacker in the Ocean League,” said Wright.
A welcome transfer from Leuzinger is Winner Watts. The 6’2” 225 lb. senior “brings intensity and hitting ability that will give the defense a spark to establish an edge defensively,” said Wright. Watts is a vocal leader who flies to the football and plays like a whirling dervish.
Brandon Meyers (6’2” 205 Sr.) had a tremendous off-season, noted Wright.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the finished product on the field,” Wright said.
One of the few two-way performers for Coach Wright is fireplug Akili Skannal. The 5’9” 210 senior brings a strong intensity, according to Wright. “He provided a spark on defense in the playoffs last year and will do the same full time this year,” said Wright.
Travis Hudson and Christian Rubalcaba with provide quality depth.
