Cougar Athletics
30 NAIA National Championships
95 GSAC Championships
...and counting

THIS YEAR: Junior college transfer Joel Garnica is one of several key newcomers who should have an impact along a rebuilt Cougar frontline ... Will push for starting duties ... Quite strong and steady in his play ... Known for his high character.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons for head coach Bob Jastrab at state power Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, Calif. ... As a 2006 sophomore, helped lead the Mounties to a 9-2 record and a bowl win over Orange Coast College.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Ramon Juarez at Pioneer High in Whittier, Calif. ... Played key roles as both offensive and defensive linemen and on special teams ... Was a 2-time All-Del Rio League selection, earning first-team honors as a 2004 senior ... Also named all-area and was selected to the 605 and Hall of Fame all-star games ... As a 2003 junior named the team’s offensive lineman of the year ... As a 2002 sophomore, started at center and helped lead the Titans to a 9-3 record and their first CIF playoff game in 8 years ... For academic honors was awarded summer trips to Washington D.C. and Sacramento, Calif.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 19, 1986, in Los Angeles, Calif., to Jose and Ana Rose Garnica ... Has 3 brothers (Abel, Ivan, Jesus) and a sister (Roxana) ... Majoring in history with a minor in business ... Wants to teach and coach on the high school level.