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

THIS YEAR: In his final year of college, Daniel Bringhurst returns to football for the first time since his 2002 senior year in high school ... Expected to be a reserve player along the Cougar front.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 1 season of varsity football at Tigard (Ore.) High ... Earned all-conference second team as a center during his senior season.

PERSONAL: Born Oct. 18, 1984, in Mountain View, Calif., to Larry (engineer) and Susan (childcare provider) Bringhurst ... Has 1 older brother (Jody), who graduated from Azusa Pacific 2 years ago ... Majoring in chemistry ... Wants to go into pharmaceutical sales ... Enjoys duck hunting and snowboarding.

THIS YEAR: A talented newcomer with a promising future, freshman Chris Brown comes out of regional power Modesto (Calif.) Christian High where he developed an outstanding knowledge of the game and good fundamentals ... May need a year to develop physically and adjust to the speed of the college game.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Mike Parsons at Modesto Christian, playing both fullback and linebacker ... Was a member of 2 conference championship teams and 2 Crusader squads that finished as the CIF San Joaquin Section runner-up in 2005 and 2006 ... As a 2006 senior, rushed for 464 yards and 7 TDs and collected 74 tackles before suffering a season-ending injury in week 8 ... Tallied 91 tackles as a 2005 junior ... Also lettered in track & field (400 and 800 meters).

PERSONAL: March 24, 1989, in Modesto, Calif., to Jeff (nurse) and Kim (nurse) Brown ... Has a younger brother (Aaron) and younger sister (Natalie) ... Majoring in biochemistry and would like to be a surgeon some day.

THIS YEAR: Junior James Burke is a veteran of the Cougar system, now entering his fourth year in the program … Hopes to break into the Cougar 2-deep ... Uses his height to his advantage … Has improved his speed... Is one of the Cougars’ top players on special teams.

2006: Emerged as a regular on specials teams and played in 8 games, making 5 tackles (2 solo) ... Had a key fumble recovery of a punt that led to a score vs. Humboldt State ... Made appearances as a reserve at wide receiver but did not have a reception.

2005: Put together a good spring that garnered him a spot on the 2-deep heading into 2-a-days, however, appeared in just 1 game (vs. Sacramento State) and did not have a reception.

2004: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

TRACK & FIELD: Has competed for Azusa Pacific’s national power track & field program the past 2 seasons, splitting time with spring football … Posted 2007 bests of 7.29 (60m), 11.81 (100m) and 16.38 (110m hurdles) and 24.20 (200m).

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 4-sport standout at Antioch (Calif.) High … Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Ferris Anthony … As a 2003 senior tallied 19 receptions for 259 yards and 1 TD … Also ran 2 seasons of track & field, earning All-Bay Valley Athletic League honors in the 400 meters, 110-meter hurdles and 300-meter hurdles … As a senior, garnered CIF honors in both hurdle events … Played 1 season of varsity soccer and volleyball as well.

PERSONAL: Son of Michael (pastor) and Lisa (teacher) Burke … Has 1 brother (Robert) and 2 sisters (Katherine, Caroline) … Also working on a minor in music … Considering coaching or teaching music as a profession … Spent over 1,500 hours performing with the Antioch High Music Masters.

YEAR    G-GS  SOLO AS'T TACKLES  FR
2005    1-0     0    0     0      0
2006    8-0     2    3     5      1
Career  9-0     2    3     5      1

THIS YEAR: A strong redshirt freshman who could develop into a key contributor this year, Josh Carlton gives the Cougar not only quality depth but also excitement about the future ... Will press from time along a rebuilt offensive line.

2006: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Scott Donegan at state power Chowchilla (Calif.) High … Was a regular on the Redskins’ offensive and defensive lines and a key member of 2 East Sequoia League champions who went 22-4 during Carlton’s junior and senior seasons … Was a 2-time All-East Sequoia League pick ... During his 2005 senior season, tallied 53 tackles (32 solo) that included 3 sacks … Best game came in a 49-6 victory over Selma High when he tallied 8 tackles (4 solo) … Had 5 tackles, including a pair of sacks, in a win over Dos Palos High … Chowchilla won the 2004 CIF Division IV Central Section championship in 2004 and returned to the title game in 2005.

PERSONAL: Son of Jerry (mechanic) and Lynn (healthcare) Carlton ... Has 3 brothers (Jerry, Jason, Jordon) and a sister (Shelby) ... Enjoys working on cars.

THIS YEAR: Azusa Pacific’s returning starting quarterback, senior Rudy Carlton embarks on his sixth season in the program … Strong armed and athletic ... Has be plagued by injuries in the past but when healthy, can be quite dynamic ... Known for his courage and toughness.

2006: Started the first 5 games before another injury ended his season ... Completed 40-of-80 passes ... Best showing came in a victory over Malone at famed Fawcett Stadium where he completed 10-of-14 passes for 185 yards and 2 TDs, including a career-best long of 78 yards to Nate Nasca on the game’s opening play ... Opened the season by completing 16 of his first 23 passes for 223 yards despite suffering a strained ligament early in the season-opener at San Diego ... Primarily played in just 3 games, missing 3 quarters of the USD game and then going down with a season-ending injury on the opening drive of the Whitworth game.

2005: Came back from a year lay-off and enjoyed his first live action since the 2003 campaign and earned his first-ever collegiate start by the sixth game of the season … Completed 91-of-191 passes for 1,242 yards and 8 TDs … Came off the bench to lead the Cougars to victory over Southern Oregon by completing 16-of-24 passes for 158 yards and 2 TDs and as a result started the final 5 games … Best effort came in the Cougars’ 47-6 victory over No. 23-ranked Eastern Oregon, completing 16-of-21 passes for 353 yards and 3 TDs for the best performance by a Cougar QB in 5 years … Put together a 4-game stretch where he completed 62-of-111 (.550) for 875 yards and 6 TDs.

2004: Sat out the season while continuing to recover from shoulder surgery.

2003: Entered 2-a-days in a battle with Sean Davis for the starting berth … Narrowly edged out by Davis … Came off the bench in 2 of the Cougars’ first 3 games, completing 3-of-4 passes for 19 yards before an injury against Cal Lutheran ended his season.

2002: Redshirted the 2002 season while working as an understudy to Luke Winslow, the program’s all-time leading passer.

HIGH SCHOOL: Graduated from Dakota Ridge High in Littleton, Colo. … Is the school’s No. 2 all-time passer, throwing for 2,323 yards with 12 TDs while completing 184-of-326 passes … As a 2001 senior was rated among Colorado’s top 2 prep QBs and went on to complete 184-of-326 passes before a dislocated elbow suffered in the fifth game ended his season … As a junior, led the Eagles to the state quarterfinals … Against Chatfield, went 21-for-23 for 295 yards, passing for 2 TDs and running for 2 more … Was a 2-time all-conference pick … Lettered 3 seasons in football, 2 in baseball (rhp/ss) and 1 in basketball (point guard).

PERSONAL: Son of Jim and Tammy Carlton … Has an older brother (Rory, a former Cougar tight end) and a sister (Raimey) ... Graduated in the spring of 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is currently working on his master’s in organizational leadership.

YEAR    G-GS   COMP-ATT-INT   PCT   YARDS   TD   LG
2003     2-0       3-4-0      .750    19     0    9
2004             injured did not play
2005     9-5      91-191-5    .476   1242    8   71
2006     5-5      40-80-3     .500    507    2   78
Career  16-10    134-275-8    .487   1768   10   78

THIS YEAR: One of the Cougars’ top returnees and an emerging impact player, junior Brian Casey team withs Travis Bengard and Casey Roel to give Azusa Pacific an outstanding set of linebackers ... Rated a smart player who is strong against the run ... Not flashy but quite steady in his performance.

2006: Appeared in all 10 games as a 2006 sophomore, starting the final 8 of the campaign ... Was seventh on the team with 44 tackles (14 solo), including 6 for loss ... Tallied a career-high 9 tackles vs. Wisconsin-LaCrosse, his first collegiate start ... Had 7 tackles and 1.5 sacks in the victory over Dixie State ... Collected his first collegiate interception vs. Humboldt State and returned it 39 yards

2005: Appeared in 3 games as a 2005 redshirt freshman, primarily on special teams … Registered a pair of tackles, including 1 in the season opener vs. San Diego … Made a move from the Cougar secondary to linebacker.

2004: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at Fresno Christian High, earning All-Central Sierra League recognition in football, soccer and baseball during his senior year … On the gridiron, led the Eagles to an 11-1 record during his 2002 senior season … In baseball, was a member of back-to-back league championship teams.

PERSONAL: Son of Keith Casey and Deborah Wise … His father played baseball at Iowa State … Has 3 sisters (Barbara, Jill, Stephanie) … Attended Fresno Pacific for 1 year, playing on the Sunbirds’ club baseball team in 2004.

YEAR    G-GS  SOLO AS'T TACKLES TFL-YDS SACKS-YDS INT
2005    3-0     2    0      2      0          0    0
2006   10-8    14   30     44     6-15    1.5-10   1
Career 13-8    16   30     46     6-15    1.5-10   1

THIS YEAR: Redshirt freshman Garrett Chambers is vying for playing time along the Cougar front ... Will push for time at center ... Gives the Cougars good depth.

2006: Redshirted his first season with the Cougars. 2005: Attended Azusa Pacific but was not a member of the football program.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Mike Henjum at Saddleback Valley Christian High in San Juan Capistrano, Calif. ... As a 2004 senior earned All-San Joaquin League honorable mention for the Warriors ... Also played 4 seasons of baseball and lettered 1 season in basketball.

PERSONAL: Born March 8, 1987, in Santa Ana, Calif., to Gary (lawyer) and Dalyn Chambers ... Has 1 brother (Brendan, plays football at Saddleback Valley Christian High) and 2 sisters (Danielle, Shalyn) ... His father was a wrestler at the University of Redlands ... Majoring in political science.

THIS YEAR: Azusa Pacific’s top-returning receiver, junior Jon Davis has evolved into a post-season honors candidate, which is quite an accomplishment considering that he has played football only 3 years … Excellent athlete who uses his height quite well … Has terrific hands and is able to make difficult catches ... Will be a key weapon in the Cougar attack.

2006: Started all 10 games and led Azusa Pacific with 29 catches for 302 yards (10.4 avg.) and 3 TDs ... Caught at least 1 pass in all 10 games with his best showing coming at Southern Oregon where he had a career-high 8 grabs for 82 yards and a TD ... Also had 5 receptions vs. Wisconsin-Whitewater ... Longest catch was a 40-yard TD strike vs. Humboldt State.

2005: Was perhaps the surprise newcomer of the 2005 Cougars, walking on as an unknown freshman, playing his first season of football and yet earning a spot on special teams and eventually a place on the depth chart … Appeared in 7 games, collecting 9 tackles on special teams while registering 4 receptions for 79 yards … First collegiate catch was 17-yard TD grab vs. defending NAIA champ Carroll for the Cougars’ only score of the game … The following week had 2 catches for 56 yards, including a career-best 43-yarder, vs. Willamette.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 4-sport standout at Jim Elliot Christian High near Lodi, Calif. … Was a 2-tme all-league honoree in basketball, garnering league MVP honors as a 2003 senior … Was also all-league in baseball (OF) and soccer (forward) … Competed in golf for 1 season.

PERSONAL: Born Sept. 5, 1985, in Lodi, Calif., to Dean (CEO) and Jane (athletic director) Davis … Has 1 brother (Matthew) and a sister (Katie) … Would like to go into agricultural business marketing after graduation … Earned an academic scholarship to Azusa Pacific and attended 2 years before coming out for the football team in the fall of 2005.

YEAR    G-GS   REC   YARDS   AVG   TD   LG   TACKLES
2005    7-0     4     79    11.3   1    43      9       
2006   10-10   29    302    10.4   3    40      1       
Career 17-10   33    381    11.5   4    43     10

THIS YEAR: One of 5 quarterbacks on the roster, redshirt freshman Tyler Davis is battling to be the primary back-up for Rudy Carlton ... Looking for his first action as a signal caller.

2006: Did not get into any games during his 2006 redshirt freshman season at Azusa Pacific.

2005: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Fred Romero at state power La Cueva High in Albuquerque, N.M. … As a quarterback, led the Bears to back-to-back undefeated seasons and 28 consecutive victories while on their way to 2 New Mexico state 5A championships … As a 2004 senior, was 55-of-97 passing for 1,050 yards and 19 TDs ... Threw for 1,100 yards and 22 TDs (school record) as a 2003 junior … Was a All-Metro second team pick as both a quarterback and punter during his senior campaign.

PERSONAL: Born Feb. 27, 1987, in Albuquerque, N.M. to Craig (pastor) and Becky (orthodontic assistant) Davis … Has 1 brother (Sean, former Cougar QB who is No. 4 on Azusa Pacific’s all-time passing chart) ... Majoring in exercise and sport science.

THIS YEAR: An intriguing newcomer, Armon De’Launey combines size and speed and could push for a significant role in a deep Cougar backfield.

WEBER STATE: Spent 3 seasons at NCAA Division I-AA Weber State, redshirting the 2004 campaign ... Appeared in 5 games in 2 active seasons, rushing for 31 yards on 13 carries ... As a 2005 redshirt freshman had 29 yards on 12 carries in 1 game. TRACK & FIELD: Ran for Azusa Pacific’s NAIA championship track & field team during the spring of 2006 ... Posted season bests of 7.05 (60), 11.53 (100) and 22.51 (200).

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Tom Salter at Culver City (Calif.) High ... As a 2003 senior rushed for over 1,200 yards and 16 TDs ... Named All-CIF first team, all-league and team MVP ... Also ran track (sprints) for the Centaurs, posting a personal best of 11.07 as a senior.

PERSONAL: Born March 2, 1986, in Los Angeles, to Euri Mills ... Has 2 sisters (Cash, Crystal) ... Majoring in psychology.

THIS YEAR: Sophomore Todd Dini returns looking to vie for time on the Cougar offensive front ... Can also serve as the Cougars’ long snapper.

2006: Appeared in all 10 games as the Cougars’ long snapper on punts ... Collected 5 tackles (2 solo) on special teams.

2005: Moved between both sides of the ball but did not see any action.

2004: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football at Ramapo High in Franklin Lakes, N.J. … As a 2003 senior earned All-NBIL second team recognition as a member of the Raiders’ state championship team that went 11-1 … Also played on the 2002 team that went 10-2 and finished as the state runner-up. … Wrestled for 3 seasons and earned 2 varsity letters in lacrosse.

PERSONAL: Son of Randy (sales rep) and Gail Dini … Has 2 brothers (Brian, a former All-American offensive lineman at Wheaton College, Rudy) and 1 sister (Leigh, a current student at Azusa Pacific).

YEAR  G-GS  SOLO AS'T TACKLES  FR  FF
2006  10-0    2    3     5      0   0

THIS YEAR: Potentially one of the Cougars’ most explosive weapons, senior Darnell Dodson moves into the Cougar backfield after joining the program last year as a wide receiver ... Terrific athlete who is extremely quick with shifty moves ... Will vie for kick return responsibilities ... Can change the tempo of the Cougar attack.

2006: Returned to football after a 2-year layoff ... After working off the rust, played in the final 5 games of the season, all off the bench ... Appeared first as a cornerback vs. Southern Oregon and then the next week vs. Humboldt State (Oct. 14) switched to running back (his third position of the season) for the first time in his career ... For the season, rushed for 32 yards on 8 carries, including 3 of 6 or more yards. TRACK & FIELD: Is a sprinter on Azusa Pacific’s national power track & field team ... Helped lead the Cougars to a third place finish at the 2007 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field Championships by running the third leg on the Cougars’ 4x100 relay that finished eighth with a 41.34 ... Recorded season-bests of 7.37 (60), 11.18 (100), and 22.69 (200).

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Spent 3 years at Fullerton (Calif.) College, playing 2 seasons for longtime Orange County coach Gene Murphy ... As a 2002 freshman, was among the Mission Conference’s top 10 punt returners, averaging 6.7 yards per return for the 3-7 Hornets ... Greyshirted the 2003 season ... As a 2004 sophomore, was a key receiver for the 6-4 Hornets ... Best game came in a 37-33 loss to Riverside City, tallying 5 catches for 58 yards.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Kerry Crabb at Cypress (Calif.) High and put together an outstanding career ... Holds the school career records for most receptions (72), receiving yardage (977) and touchdown receptions (12) ... All together had 15 TDs in his prep career ... Is third on the school’s all-time list in scoring (92 points) .. Also had 4 interceptions in his career ... As a 2000 junior named All-Empire League first team for the 10-2 Centurions.

PERSONAL: Born July 7, 1984, in Long Beach, Calif., to Karen Scott ... Has 1 brother (Erik) ... Majoring in communications ... Would like to eventually be a fire fighter.

YEAR  G-GS  C  YRDS  AVG  TD  LG
2006  5-0   8   32   4.0   0  10

THIS YEAR: A key member of Azusa Pacific’s deep set of wide receivers ... Will vie for a starting berth ... Noted for his strength and size ... Great target over the middle but can also go deep.

2006: As a 2006 junior, his first at Azusa Pacific, appeared in 9 of the Cougars’ 10 games, starting 2 ... Had 8 receptions for 153 yards for a hefty 19.1 avg. ... Had 4 receptions of 29 yards or longer, including a season-best 43-yarder vs. NCAA DIII playoff participant Wisconsin-LaCrosse ... Tallied his first score as a Cougar with a 22-yard grab to give Azusa Pacific a 28-13 lead in the third quarter vs. Dixie State.

SACRAMENTO STATE: Attended NCAA Division I-AA Sacramento State for 3 years, playing 2 seasons for the Hornets … Appeared in 16 games during his 2-year career, collecting 11 receptions for 136 yards with a long of 29 … Had 6 grabs for 91 yards (15.2 avg.) as a 2004 redshirt freshman ... During his 2005 sophomore season had 3 catches for 45 yards vs. No. 17-ranked California.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at Elsinore High in Lake Elsinore, Calif. … As a 2003 senior in football, was named all-league and all-valley after tallying 23 receptions for 415 yards … Best game was against Puloma Valley High when he nabbed 11 passes … Was a member of the Tigers’ 2001 Southwestern League championship team and 2002 Sunbelt League title squad … Lettered in baseball, winning league honors, and basketball ... Was the school valedictorian ... Also served as the junior class vice president.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 11, 1984, to Kevin Farrell and Linda Johnson in Santa Ana, Calif. ... Has 2 brothers (Josh, who played football at Oregon State and Sacramento State, Max) and 2 sisters (Jenna, Kennedy) … His father played football at Fresno State ... Majoring in communication ... Wants to teach and coach.

YEAR   G-GS  REC  YARDS  AVG  TD  LG
2006   9-2    8    153  19.1   1  43

THIS YEAR: One of several key figures along the Cougar defensive front, an experienced Blake Fitzgerald figures to be a force on a vastly improved defensive line ... Strong and forceful ... Excels in defending the run. 2006: Joined Azusa Pacific late in 2-a-days ... Appeared in 6 games, starting 1 (vs. Humboldt State) ... Recorded 8 tackles on the season.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons of junior college football, spending his 2004 freshman season at Shasta College in Redding, Calif., and his 2005 season at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, Calif. ... Earned all-conference second team honors both years, first as a defensive lineman at Shasta and then as an offensive guard at Saddleback.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 4 seasons of varsity football as a 2-way lineman for head coach Bruce Ingalls at Laguna Hills High ... Played with current Cougar linebacker Travis Bengard ... Was a 3-time All-Sea View League honoree ... Also lettered 1 season in wrestling and 3 in track & field ... Holds the school record in the shot put at 49 feet.

PERSONAL: Born Oct. 21, 1985, in Whittier, Calif., to Dan (business owner) and Sheri (pharmacist) Fitzgerald ... Has 1 brother (Wade) ... Majoring in applied health ... Enjoy fishing and climbing half dome in Yosemite National Park.

Year  G-GS  Solo  Ast  Tackles  TFL-Yds  Sacks-Yds  FF  FR  PD
   2006   6-1    1    7      8        0         0       0   0   0

THIS YEAR: Junior Dustin Fortenberry is another big body along the Cougar offensive front ... Looking for his first live action after redshirting last year at Azusa Pacific ... Provides quality depth.

2006: Sat out the season while working out with the Cougar football team and attending classes at Azusa Pacific.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons for head coach Craig Thompson at Shasta College in Redding, Calif. ... Started 16 of 21 games during his career, including all 10 of his 2005 sophomore season when he was named All-Mid-Empire Conference and team offensive lineman of the year ... Played both guard and tackle ... The Knights went 8-13 during Fortenberry’s 2 seasons.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Clay Erro at Enterprise High in Redding, Calif. ... As a 2002 junior played both offensive guard and defensive tackle for the 10-2 Hornets who won the CIF Northern Section championship ... The Hornets went 19-5 during Fortenberry’s 2 seasons, finishing as the CIF runner-up during his 2003 senior campaign ... Also played 2 seasons of baseball (third base).

PERSONAL: Born July 3, 1984, in Redding, Calif., to Gary (family therapist) and Lynn Fortenberry ... Has a younger brother (Travis) ... Majoring in social science ... Wants to teach and coach ... Enjoys camping and fishing.

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.

THIS YEAR: A terrific athlete, senior Mac Gebber is pushing for significant playing time among the Cougars’ linebacking corps ... Smart player who puts himself in position to make plays ... Quite active on the field and sells out his body.

2006: In his first season at Azusa Pacific as a 2006 junior, appeared in all 10 games, coming off the bench as a linebacker and on special teams ... Registered 24 tackles (8 solo) ... Best outing came against Humboldt State when he tallied a season-high 8 tackles ... Also had 5 tackles against Southern Oregon and Dixie State.

PUGET SOUND: Played 2 seasons at NCAA Division III member University of Puget Sound (Wash.) ... Started 17 games for the Loggers during his 2-year career, tallying 100 tackles and 6 interceptions (50 takedowns and 3 picks both seasons) ... As a 2005 sophomore had a season-high 11 tackles in a victory over Claremont-Mudd ... Had 2 interceptions against traditional power Pacific Lutheran, including 1 that led to a game-clinching TD in a 23-13 victory ... As a 2004 freshman, had 10 tackles in a victory over La Verne.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at Brewster (Wash.) High ... Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Ed Ashworth ... Played both quarterback and defensive back ... Was a 2-time All-Caribou Trail League pick as a defensive back ... As a 2002 senior named league offensive MVP... Also earned all-state first team recognition as a defensive back ... Played 4 seasons of varsity basketball, helping lead the Bears to the 2003 state championship ... Twice named all-state tournament second team ... Also played 4 seasons of varsity baseball (outfielder), twice earning all-league recognition ... As a 2001 sophomore, played on the Bears’ state championship team.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 21, 1983, in Brewster, Wash., to Mac (business owner) and Becky (bookkeeper) Gebbers ... Is the third of 4 boys ... His older brother, John, played basketball and baseball at Gonzaga and Whitworth ... His other older brother Dan played baseball at Whitworth ... His younger brother Hawkins is an All-GSAC third baseman at Biola ... His dad played baseball at Gonzaga ... Majoring in international business.

Year  G-GS  Solo  Ast  Tackles  TFL-Yds  Sacks-Yds  FF FR PD
   2006  10-0    8    16     24       0          0      0  1  1

THIS YEAR: A promising newcomer among Azusa Pacific’s 2007 freshman recruiting class, defensive back Austin Gordon is a smart player with good skills ... Offers the Cougars good depth in the secondary ... May redshirt the season to allow him to adjust to the college game.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Joe DiCanio at Fenwick High in Oak Park, Ill. ... Played both wide receiver and safety ... As a 2006 senior, named all-regional after collecting 33 receptions, 3 TDs and 3 interceptions ... Helped lead the Friars to the semifinals of the Chicago Prep Bowl ... As a 2005 junior tallied 20 catches, 2 TDs and 4 picks ... Also ran 1 season of track & field at Fenwick.

PERSONAL: Born Aug. 22, 1988, in Chicago, Ill., to Wayne (pastor) and Anne (teacher) Gordon ... Has 1 brother (Andrew) and a sister (Angela) ... Has not declared a major ... In the summer of 2007 made a trip to the African countries of Egypt, Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia.

THIS YEAR: Redshirt sophomore James Graham is battling to become a key reserve along the Cougar front ... Has gained experience and size in his 2 previous seasons in the Cougar system.

2006: Did not appear in any of the Cougars’ 10 games during his 2006 redshirt freshman campaign.

2005: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Joey Cota at El Capitan High in Lakeside, Calif. … Was a 2-time San Diego Union-Tribune scholar-athlete in football … Also lettered 2 seasons in track & field (throws).

PERSONAL: Born Jan. 30, 1987, in Anaheim, Calif., to Stuart (pediatrician) and Grace Graham … Is the oldest of 6 children, with 2 brothers (Jeremy, David) and 3 sisters (Katherine, Becca, Debbie) … Majoring in business ... His uncle, Doug Graham, played football at the University of La Verne … Enjoys reading and hiking … Wants to go into management after graduation.

THIS YEAR: A player who could develop into a key contributor over the course of his career, redshirt freshman Nick Groff is a good athlete who has some added dose of toughness ... Understands the Cougar system.

2006: Returned to football after a 2-year layoff and redshirted the season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football at Calvary Chapel High in Murrieta, Calif. ... Was a 2-time all-league pick while setting the school record for most tackles in a career (224) ... As a 2003 senior named All-Big Sky League after garnering a team-high 100 tackles in 11 games ... Tallied 75 tackles as a 2002 junior and as a 2001 sophomore set the school single-game record with 8 quarterback sacks (vs. Liberty Christian High) ... Also served as the Warriors’ punter and set the school record for the longest punt at 62 yards ... Lettered 3 seasons in varsity soccer, earning a pair of All-Big Sky League honors.

PERSONAL: Born Aug. 2, 1985, in Tacoma, Wash., to Stan (retired U.S. Marine and now teacher) and Denise Groff ... Has 2 younger sisters (Frances, Michaela) ... Majoring in marketing.

THIS YEAR: In an area where the competition is wide open for playing time, Mike Hanakahi figures to be among those battling for a spot ... Returns to football after sitting out the 2006 season.

LAMBUTH: Spent his 2005 freshman campaign at NAIA member Lambuth University in Jackson, Tenn., where he redshirted the season.

HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in 4 sports at Word of Life Academy in Honolulu, Hawaii ... Played 3 seasons of varsity football... Also played 2 seasons of basketball for the Firebrands and ran 2 years of track & field ... Served as team captain for the canoe paddling squad.

PERSONAL: Born Jan. 3, 1987, in Honolulu to Mike (property manager) and Chris (teacher) Hanakahi ... Has 1 brother (Peter) and 2 sisters (Adaiah, Jedidah) ... Majoring in history.

THIS YEAR: The Cougars’ primary place-kicker, Ben Hansen looks to build off a fine rookie campaign and emerge as a key weapon in the Cougar attack … Has an excellent leg that is quite strong and accurate.

2006: Enjoyed a fine 2006 freshman season in which he tallied 36 points, second best on the team ... Was 5-for-7 in field goal attempts ... Converted the first 2 attempts of his career, including a career-best 43-yard vs. Malone on his very first collegiate try ... Was a perfect 21-for-21 on PATs.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Mike Machado at Valley Christian in San Jose, Calif. … As a 2005 senior, named San Francisco Chronicle All-Metro Bay Area, All-San Jose Mercury News, All-CIF, All-NorCal, and CalHi Sports all-state third team while leading the Warriors to a 12-1 record and the CIF championship … Selected the West Catholic Athletic League kicker of the year … Made a career-best 50-yarder ... Played 4 seasons of soccer as well, earning All-West Catholic Athletic League recognition 3 straight seasons, including first team honors as a keeper during his senior campaign.

PERSONAL: Born April 3, 1988, to Jeff and Sue (teacher) Hansen … Has 1 older brother (Chris) … Enjoys wakeboarding, surfing and hockey ... Majoring in business with a minor in computer science.

Year  G  PATS  FG-FGA  20-29  30-39  40-49  50+  LG Blk
   2006 10  21-21   5-7    4-4     0     1-3    0   43  0

THIS YEAR: A key player in the Cougar offense, senior wide-out Paul Hardiman is a speedy player who gives the Cougars a deep threat … Figures to battle for a starting role … May appear on special teams as well.

2006: Played in 8 games as 2006 junior, all off the bench ... Had 3 receptions, all coming late in the season, for 38 yards ... Also rushed twice for 25 yards, including a 20 yard TD run in the victory over Dixie State.

2005: Appeared in 8 of the Cougars’ 10 games as a 2005 junior, including the final 6 of the season … Registered 4 receptions for 20 yards and returned 4 kickoffs for 55 yards … Opened the season returning kicks and worked his way into the receiving corps … Had 2 grabs vs. Sacramento State.

GRAMBLING: Attended Grambling State University where he appeared in 5 games as a 2004 redshirt freshman, collecting 6 receptions for 156 yards which included a 61-yard TD catch vs. Prairie View A&M … Redshirted the 2003 season … Signed with former NFL great Doug Williams, who later left Grambling to work in the front office of the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers … Change in coaching staffs sent Hardiman to Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 4 seasons of varsity football and 2 seasons of varsity basketball at Valley Christian High in Chandler, Ariz. … In football was all-state first-team as a 2002 senior when he set nearly every school receiving record including most catches in a game (21, a state record too) … Was a 4-time All-Metro pick, the first 2 seasons as a quarterback and the final 2 as a receiver … Was a basketball standout, leading the Trojans to back-to-back state championships and a combined 64-3 record.

PERSONAL: Born Sept. 8, 1984, in Dallas, Texas, to Finis (sales) and Roni (flight attendant) Hardiman … Has 2 brothers (Kevin, Michael) … Majoring in business with a minor in mass communication … Involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

YEAR   G-GS  Rec  Yards  Avg  TD  LG  C  Yards  Avg.  TD  LG
   2005   8-0    4    20    5.0   0  10  1   -14    -     0   -
2006   8-0    3    38    12.7  0  19  2    25   12.5   1  20
   Career 16-0   7    58    8.3   0  19  3    11    3.7   1  20

THIS YEAR: A fine athlete with good football fundamentals, junior Andre Hunter will press for a starting berth ... Brings speeds and smarts to the secondary.

2006: Came off the bench in 5 games during his 2006 sophomore season ... Tallied 4 tackles, including 2 in the game at Whitworth.

2005: Put together excellent workouts during 2-a-days in the fall and earned a spot on the Cougar 2-deep but made just a brief appearance during the season in the game at Carroll.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-time All-Golden League first team selection during his 4-year varsity career at Lancaster (Calif.) High where he played for head coach Jeff Cortez … As a 2004 senior, named All-CIF second team … Was also a 2-time All-CIF Academic pick … Clinched the 9-3 Eagles' CIF first-round playoff victory over Arcadia with a midfield interception that he returned for a TD with 2 minutes left in Lancaster's 26-14 verdict … Also ran 4 seasons of track & field, competing for his father who coached the Lancaster High team … Named to the national honor roll with a 4.3 GPA during his senior year. PERSONAL: Born Oct. 5, 1986, in Dayton, Ohio to Michael (hazmat manager) and Pamela Hunter … Has 2 brothers (DeJuan, Michael) ... Majoring in political science.

Year   G-GS  Solo  As't  Tackles  TFL-Yds  Sacks-Yds  FF  FR  PD
2005   1-0     0    0       0       0          0       0   0   0
2006   5-0     2    2       4       0          0       0   0   1
Career 6-0     2    2       4       0          0       0   0   1

THIS YEAR: Junior college transfer Matt Johnson is an outstanding long-snapper and will be a primary figure on special teams ... Will also compete for time along the Cougar defense front ... Is returning football after a year layoff.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 years for former Cougar assistant Kevin Emerson at Citrus College in Glendora, Calif. ... Earned All-Western States Conference as a 2005 sophomore ... Was a member of an Owls’ program that went 13-7 in his 2 seasons ... Signed with BYU but did not attend.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at West Covina (Calif.) High ... Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Mike Maggiore ... Was a 2-time All-San Antonio League pick, earning the honor on both sides of the line his 2002 junior and 2003 senior seasons ... Named San Gabriel Valley Tribune All-Valley on defense in 2003 ... As a 2001 sophomore, named All-Sierra League on defense and was voted the team’s most improved ... Earned 4 varsity letters in wrestling ... As a senior won the CIF title ... Was the CIF finalist as a junior.

PERSONAL: Born March 24, 1986, in Pasadena, Calif., to Dane (pastor) and Tracy Johnson ... Has one brother (Christopher) ... Majoring in exercise and sport science ... Would like to be a high school teacher and wrestling coach ... Coached girl’s wrestling at West Covina High and had 4 girls place at the state meet.

THIS YEAR: A developing receiver, veteran Andrew Kazanjian has plenty of experience in the Cougar system that he can use to his advantage to gain playing time ... Is coming off another good spring ... Considered a possession-type receiver.

2006: Appeared in 7 games during his 2006 sophomore season, primarily on special team where he excelled ... Tallied 6 tackles ... Did make appearances as a reserve receiver but did not have a reception.

2005: Played in 1 game as a 2005 redshirt freshman, appearing briefly in a reserve role in the Cougars’ victory over nationally-ranked Eastern Oregon.

2004: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Bill Malony at San Marino High … Doubled as a wide receiver and defensive back, earning All-Rio Hondo League first team and All-San Gabriel Valley honorable mention recognition for his defensive play as a 2003 senior … As a wide receiver, collected 6 TD receptions during his 2-year varsity career … Also ran 2 seasons of track & field for the Titans.

PERSONAL: Born April 16, 1986, in Pasadena, Calif., to Howard (film producer) and Carol (real estate) Kazanjian … Has 2 brothers (Peter, Noah, who attends Azusa Pacific) … Majoring in cinema.

Year   G-GS  Solo  As't  Tackles  Rec  Yards  Avg  TD  LG
2005    1-0    0    0       0      0     0     -    0   0
2006    5-0    2    4       6      0     0     -    0   0
Career  6-0    2    4       6      0     0     -    0   0

THIS YEAR: A former transfer out Western State College of Colorado, senior Shaun Kemp should push for a starting berth along the Cougar front … Is strong and athletic … Good against the run.

2006: Appeared in 9 games, all off the bench, as a 2006 junior, his first season at Azusa Pacific ... Had 7 tackles, including 2 vs. Malone.

WESTERN STATE: Redshirted his 2005 junior season at Western State, an NCAA Division II school in Gunnison, Colo.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons at Los Angeles Harbor College, where as a 2004 sophomore he was named All-Western State Conference while leading the best run-defense in the conference.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-sport standout at El Segundo (Calif.) High, earning varsity letters in football and baseball … As a 2002 senior, named All-Ocean League and the team’s most valuable lineman ... As a senior also lettered in basketball and earned the team’s Comeback Player of the Year Award for the 29-6 Eagles who finished as the CIF runner-up.

PERSONAL: Born Feb. 22, 1984, in Inglewood, Calif., to Stan (business owner) and Susie (financial adviser) Kemp ... Has a younger brother (Nick) ... Majoring in exercise and sport science ... Wants to teach and coach.

Year   G-GS  Solo  As't  Tackles  TFL-Yds  Sacks-Yds  FF FR  PD
   2006    9-0    2    5       7        0         0       0  0   0

THIS YEAR: A bruising fullback, sophomore David Kim teams with Tyler Roach and Alex Peltier to give the Cougars a constant physical presence in the backfield … Quite physical yet deceptively elusive for his size.

2006: Missed the entire 2006 season with an injury.

2005: Made his first collegiate appearance, coming off the bench in the final 6 games of the season … Rushed for 72 yards on 19 carries … Tallied a best of 29 yards on 6 carries, including a 16-yard jaunt, vs. Eastern Oregon … Scored his first and only collegiate TD, a 1-yard burst, to give Azusa Pacific a quick 7-0 lead vs. NCAA Division I-AA Sacramento State … As an up-back, also returned 2 kickoffs that game for 43 yards.

2004: Joined the program after classes started and redshirted the season.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played his 2003 senior season in 8-man football at Valley High School (now closed) in Bakersfield, Calif. … Named All-CIF and all-league … Named to a pair of 8-man all-star games, rushing for over 100 yards and 2 TDs in one game … During the regular season, rushed for over 360 yards and scored 7 TDs in a victory over Bakersfield Christian High … Sat out his 2002 junior season after transferring to Valley … Served as the team mascot … Played 2 seasons of junior varsity football at South High in Bakersfield … Also competed in track & field (sprints, throws) as a freshman and sophomore at South High.

PERSONAL: Born June 25, 1986, in Asuncion, Paraguay, to Eong and Chung Kim … Has a brother (Joseph) and 2 sisters (Ester, Hannah) … Majoring in business and want to eventually pursue an MBA ... Plays the trumpet, guitar, drums and piano.

YEAR   G-GS   C   YARDS   AVG   TD   LG   KOR   YDS   AVG   TD   LG
2005   6-0   19    72     3.8   1    16    2    43    21.5  0    22
2006                       injured - did not play

THIS YEAR: A veteran of the Cougar system, junior Jonathan Klish is back at full strength and set to battle for a key role along the Cougar front ... Offers great depth and helps create a competitive atmosphere.

2006: Sat out the 2006 season with an injury.

2005: Made his collegiate debut as a 2005 redshirt freshman, appearing in 1 game off the bench, late in the season vs. Eastern Oregon.

2004: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football at Denver (Colo.) Lutheran High for head coach Loren Larrabbe … Played on both sides of the line and served as team captain his final 2 seasons … Earned All-Metro League as an offensive lineman during his 2003 senior season and as a defensive lineman during his 2002 junior campaign … Tallied 46 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, including 6 sacks and blocked a punt during his senior season as a defensive end… Also played 2 seasons of varsity basketball (center) … Awarded the Warrior of the Light his junior and senior years, exemplifying the best Christian character on the team.

PERSONAL: Born Jan. 28, 1986, to David (civil engineer technician) and Marjorie (senior case technician) Klish in Denver, Colo. … Has a brother (Chris) and a sister (Stephanie) … Majoring in Biblical Studies ... Enjoys camping, backpacking … Has taken mission trips to India and Mexico.

THIS YEAR: A please surprise among Azusa Pacific’s 50 newcomers to the program, sophomore transfer Joe LaPorta is an excellent athlete who is likely to see time in both the Cougar secondary and special teams ... Has good speed and is quite strong ... Can make the big hit on defense.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 1 season for head coach Jim Bittner at Moorpark (Calif.) College ... Played primarily special times and situational downs for the 9-2 Raiders ... As an up-back returned one kickoff 12 yards.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 varsity seasons for head coach Mike Sanders at Thousand Oaks (Calif.) High ... As a 2004 senior named All-Marmonte League first team and All-Ventura County second team after tallying 112 tackles, 1 interception and 1 touchdown for the 8-4 Lancers ... Named team defensive MVP.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 23, 1986, in Tarzana, Calif., to Dan (contractor) and Nicki (real estate agent) LaPorta ... Has a brother (Luke) and 2 sisters (Lauren, Gabby) ... Majoring in exercise and sport science ... Would like to teach and coach after graduation ... Plays the guitar and has served as a junior high leader at his church.

THIS YEAR: A fourth-year Cougar, junior Beau Leaman is emerging as a key player in the Cougar secondary … Vying for a starting berth ... Good athlete who may be used on special teams as well.

2006: Switched to the defensive secondary after spending the first 2 seasons as a wide receiver ... Appeared in 8 games, all off the bench ... Recorded 12 tackles (5 solo) ... Enjoyed a career-best game in the Cougars’ victory over Webber International, tallying 6 tackles, including a sack ... Against Humboldt State, recovered a fumbled punt that led to a Cougar field goal.

2005: Appeared in 8 games as a 2005 redshirt freshman wide receiver, all off the bench … Made his first and only collegiate catch in the Cougars’ victory over Eastern Oregon … Was a standout on special teams where he made 10 tackles (6 solo) and at least 1 in every game played … In the NAIA playoff game vs. Montana Tech, had 2 tackles, including 1 for a 15-yard loss.

2004: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-time All-Chinook League pick at state power Tacoma (Wash.) Baptist High, including first-team honors as a 2003 senior … During 2003 had a school season-record 68 grabs in 12 games for 981 yards and 10 touchdowns … Garnered all-state 1A first-team recognition … Also earned all-city and all-area recognition during the 2003 campaign … Added second team league honors as a defensive back, collecting 77 tackles … Had 10 receptions for 102 yards and 2 TDs in the Crusaders’ 21-13 playoff-clinching victory over conference rival King’s High … Lettered in track & field, representing Tacoma Baptist at the state 1A championship meet in the 4x400-meter relay … Played 2 seasons of varsity basketball (guard).

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 27, 1985, in Puyallup, Wash., to Tim (foreman) and Darcy Leaman … Has a brother (Noah) and 2 sisters (Abby, Tara) … Majoring in business with a minor in history … Enjoys boating and camping.

Year   G-GS  Solo As't  Tackles  TFL  FR  Rec  Yards  Avg  TD  LG
2005    8-0    6   4      10    1-15   0   1    10    10.0  0  10
2006    8-0    5   7      12     1-4   1   0     0     -    0   0
Career  6-0    2   4       6    2-19   1   0     0     -    0   0

THIS YEAR: A shifty and hard-nosed running back, Donny Lee is an experienced back who teams with Alex Peltier, Darnell Dodson, Armon De’Launey, David Kim and Tyler Roach to give the Cougars tremendous depth.

2006: As a 2006 redshirt freshman, earned a key reserve role in the Cougar backfield, playing in the first 5 games before an injury ended his season ... Rushed for 40 yards on 11 carries on the season ... Best showing came at Malone where he rushed for 38 yards on 10 carries and scored a second-quarter TD on 1-yard blast to give the Cougars a 21-0 lead at the time ... Also worked on the special teams unit and returned 5 kickoffs for 101 yards ... Best return was a 28-yarder vs. Whitworth.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Spent his 2005 freshman season at Fullerton (Calif.) College where he greyshirted the season.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 4 seasons of varsity football at Southern California power Lutheran High in Orange, Calif. ... As a 2004 senior named all-conference after rushing for 774 yards on 91 carries (8.5 avg.) while scoring 14 TDs for the 13-1 Lancers who won the CIF championship ... Averaged 13.4 yards on 27 punt returns ... Was a teammate of current Cougar Eric Augustine ... Was also a sprinter on the Lutheran High track & field team.

PERSONAL: Born April 12, 1986, in Pomona, Calif., to Don (painting contractor) and Crystal (engineer) Lee ... Has 1 brother (Dylan) and a sister (Brooke) ... Majoring in social work ... Has a lifetime dream of someday surfing the North Shore and pipeline of Hawaii.

YEAR  G-GS  C  YRDS  AVG  TD  LG  KOR  YRDS  AVG  TD  LG
2006  5-0  11    40  3.6   1  11   5    101 20.2   0  28

THIS YEAR: Redshirt freshman Mike Loumagne is set to for his first live collegiate action ... Is fundamentally sound and has a promising future ahead of him ... Gives the Cougars some good young depth along the front.

2006: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for his father, head coach Steve Loumagne, at Western Christian High in Covina, Calif. ... Started all 21 Lancer games his final 2 seasons, playing on both sides of the ball ... As a 2005 senior earned All-Christian League first team honors ... Was a prep teammate of current Cougar Eric Beaton.

PERSONAL: Born March 4, 1988, in Upland, Calif., to Steve (teacher) and Carol Loumagne ... Has an older brother (Greg) and 2 sisters (Sara, Megan) ... His dad is an assistant coach of the Cougar coaching staff ... Majoring in business.

THIS YEAR: Ready to take the field after redshirting his initial campaign, Trevor Love looks to crack the Cougar 2-deep and play a key role in the Cougar secondary … Terrific athlete … Well-coached and understands the game.

2006: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-way standout at Santa Fe Christian High in Solana Beach, Calif., where he was coached by Brian Sipe, former NFL quarterback … Named All-Coastal League 3 consecutive years, including league offensive player of the year as a 2005 senior ... Also named All-CIF second team in 2005 when he was he had 51 tackles (33 solo) for the 10-3 Eagles … As a running back, rushed for a team-leading 912 yards on 72 carries (12.7 avg.) and scored 9 TDs … Best offensive game came in a 34-33 victory over El Cajon Valley, rushing for 164 yards on 13 carries with 2 receptions, including a game-winning 8-yard TD catch … Defensively, his best game came in a victory over El Capitan High when he tallied a season-high 10 tackles (5 solo) … As a 2004 junior, was a key player on the Eagles 12-1 team that won the CIF Division IV championship … Rushed for 532 yards on the season, scoring 4 TDs … Defensively, tallied 44 tackles (29 solo), 3 interceptions and 2 fumble recoveries ... Also lettered in baseball (second base/outfield) and soccer.

PERSONAL: Born June 21, 1988, in Mission Viejo, Calif., to Jay (salesman) and Colleen (interior decorator) Love ... Has 1 brother (Matt, who plays baseball at Biola) ... Majoring in exercise sport and science with a minor in business ... Wants to go into coaching after college.

THIS YEAR: Sophomore Andrew Lutton is a year older and stronger and should be even a more valuable weapon in the Cougar defensive scheme as the punter ... May see some time as a wide receiver.

2006: Became the first freshman since B.J. Litchfield in 1998 to exclusively handle all Cougar punting duties ... Appeared in all 10 games, registering 52 punts and averaging 37.1 yards per boot ... Tallied 5 punts over 50 yards, including a season-best 54-yarder twice (vs. Wisconsin-LaCrosse and Southern Nazarene) ... Averaged 44.1 yard over 7 punts vs. Wisconsin-LaCrosse ... Had 14 punts that stopped inside the 20 and just 2 punts that were touchbacks.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 5 different sports on the varsity level at King’s High in Edmonds, Wash. ... In football, was a 2-time All-Cascade League wide receiver and kicker ... Earned all-state honorable mention as a punter in 2005 ... As a 2005 senior led the Knights to an 8-4 record and into the state playoffs ... Caught 2 TD passes (72 and 40 yards) in the final 2 minutes to lead the Knights to a 28-21 victory over Meridian in first-round playoff action ... Was the punter in the East-West state all-star game ... Competed in track & field for 3 years, recording a personal-best of 171’ 7” in the javelin throw .. Also lettered 3 seasons in basketball, leading King’s to the state 2A championship game as a senior ... Also lettered 1 year in golf and soccer.

PERSONAL: Born Jan. 12, 1988, in Seattle, Wash., to Marie Lutton (research assistant) ... Has an older brother (Matthew) ... Enjoys fishing and camping.

YEAR  G-GS PUNTS YARDS  AVG  LG  TB  FC  I20  50+
2006  10-2   52  1929  37.1  54   2  19   19   5

THIS YEAR: Jonathan Macciola comes back to the Cougars to support the offensive line, moving out to tight end where he first started his collegiate career.

2006: Transferred to Azusa Pacific as an offensive lineman but was ineligible to play.

IDAHO STATE: Signed with Idaho State for the 2005 season as an offensive lineman, but did not play for the Bengals.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Picked up football for the first time ever and played 2 seasons at DeAnza College where he served as a tight end and place kicker ... As a 2004 sophomore, converted 24-of-26 PATs and 6-of-7 field goals in 10 games for the Dons ... As a 2003 freshman helped lead the Dons’ Central Coast Conference championship team ... Also played a season of basketball.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at Fremont Christian until transferring to Washington High for his 2000 senior season ... Played basketball at Washington until torn knee ligaments ended his season, forcing him to take off 2 years from sports while recovering ... At Fremont Christian lettered 3 years in volleyball, 2 years in basketball and 1 year in volleyball.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 15, 1981, in Paradise, Calif., to Ron (pastor) and Gail (sales) Macciola ... Has 4 brothers (Josh, Adam, Jason, Justin) ... His brother, Josh, played basketball at Bethany College in Scotts Valley, Calif. ... Younger brother, Jason, was a defensive end for the Cougars last year ... His 2 cousins, Debbie and Andrea Macciola, played basketball at Azusa Pacific in the mid-1990s ... Majoring in business with a minor in marketing ... Wants to start a company ... Has worked in real estate.

THIS YEAR: One of several young linebackers in the Cougars’ den, redshirt freshman Josh Markwith is set to take the field for the first time in his collegiate career ... Good athlete who could see time on the Cougars’ special teams ... Could develop into a key defender as his career unfolds.

2006: Redshirted his 2006 season at Azusa Pacific ... Could develop into a key defensive player as his career unfolds.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played his 2005 varsity season of football at Kalani High in Honolulu ... Missed all but 2 games with an injury ... Played his first 2 seasons at Washington High in Cherokee, Iowa ... Also excelled in baseball where he put together an excellent 4-year varsity career ... Was a 2-time all-conference honoree at Washington High ... At Kalani, named all-conference and all-state honorable mention as a junior and senior ... Also lettered in basketball and was the Falcons’ top scorer (11.8) as a senior.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 26, 1987, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to James (pastor) and Deedee Markwith ... Is the oldest of 5 children ... Has 2 brothers (Zachary, Caleb) and 2 sisters (Brittney, Brandee) ... His mom, Deedee, played volleyball at Hawaii and Sacramento State ... His dad, James, played football at Chico State ... Majoring in history while seeking a minor in biblical studies.

THIS YEAR: A terrific athlete, true sophomore Brandon McLaughlin is switching to wide receiver... Has excellent speed and toughness.

2006: Came off the bench in 6 games during his 2006 freshman season, serving primarily on the Cougars’ special teams but also seeing some reserve time in the Cougar secondary ... Registered 6 tackles on the season, including 3 vs. Southern Oregon.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Jeff Williams ... Was a member of 3 Golden League championship teams that went 14-1 in conference play during McLaughlin’s 3 seasons ... As a 2005 senior, named all-league as a wide receiver after tallying 43 catches for 481 yards ... Also selected team defensive MVP with 120 tackles (84 solo) ... During his 2004 junior campaign, earned all-league recognition as a receiver, recording 25 receptions for 280 yards for the 8-3 Falcons ... Also ran 2 seasons of track & field (sprints).

PERSONAL: Born June 20, 1988, in Panorama City, Calif., to Ronald and Lisa McLaughlin ... Has 1 brother (Ron) and a sister (Mariah) ... Wants to go into real estate.

YEAR  G-GS SOLO AS'T TACKLES  TFL  FR
2005  8-0    6    4     10   1-15   0

THIS YEAR: An interesting newcomer, Jonathan McPhee transfers to Azusa Pacific with impressive credentials ... Has to work off the rust of a 3-year sabbatical from the game but could prove to be a key player in the Cougar secondary as the season unfolds.

TEMPLE: Played 2 seasons at then-Big East Conference member Temple University in Philadelphia, appearing in 23 games ... As a 2002 true freshman played in 11 games for the Owls, tallying 5 tackles (4 solo) ... As a 2003 sophomore recorded 13 tackles (6 solo) in 12 games to go along with 1 interception (29-yard return vs. Virginia Tech that nearly won the game) and 2 pass deflections.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at St. Joseph Regional High in Montvale, N.J., from where he graduated in 2002 ... Was a key member of a Green Knights’ football program that went 33-3 during his 3-year varsity career ... As a junior and senior, led St. Joseph to back-to-back parochial state championships ... As a senior, started as both a running back and cornerback, rushing for 950 yards while collecting 4 interceptions ... Named all-state first team ... As a junior, led St. Joseph to the state title with 257 rushing yards and 2 interceptions in the championship game ... On the season rushed for 1,240 yards and registered 8 picks ... Named all-country ... Also lettered 3 years in baseball (outfielder) and basketball (guard).

PERSONAL: Born Sept. 21, 1983, in San Mateo, Calif., to Sidney (home builder) and Mina (interior designer) McPhee ... Has 1 brother (Paul) ... Majoring in history and psychology.

THIS YEAR: A possible impact player, Travon Moore returns to his California roots after playing 2 seasons in the Midwest ... Good athlete ... Will press for starting duties.

BETHEL: Played 2 seasons at Bethel College in North Newton, Kan., where he played in 19 games ... Was a key contributor in the Threshers capturing the 2006 Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) championship and advancing to the NAIA playoffs ... As a 2006 senior, earned All-KCAC honorable mention after finishing with 36 tackles (20 solo), 1 sack, and 1 fumble recovery for the 9-2 Threshers ... As a 2005 junior, appeared in 8 games, recorded 23 tackles (11 (solo) with 1 tackle for loss to go along with 1 interception.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played his 2004 freshman season at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, Calif.

HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered 3 seasons in football at Monrovia (Calif.) High, playing for head coach Steve Garrison ... As a 2002 senior led the Wildcats to an 11-1 record and the Rio Hondo League title ... Named All-CIF Southern Section first team and San Gabriel Valley Tribune All-Valley ... Also ran track for 3 seasons and was named the team MVP.

PERSONAL: Born May 28, 1985, in Los Angeles to Elva Moore (social worker) ... Has 2 sisters (Tiffany, Tammie) ... Majoring in psychology and would like to go into marriage and family counseling some day ... Enjoys reading the Bible, fishing and playing dominoes and spades.

THIS YEAR: One of 9 active running backs on the Cougar roster, sophomore Rick Myra is battling for a key reserve role.

2006: Did not get into any of the Cougars’ 10 games during the 2006 season.

2005: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach John Karpowicz at Glenbard West High in Glen Ellyn, Ill. … As a 2004 senior rushed for 1,012 yards on 177 carries with 12 TDs … Named All-West Suburban Conference, team offensive MVP, and team’s most improved … Registered single-game bests of 240 rushing yards on 30 carries with 3 TDs.

PERSONAL: born June 14, 1986 in Chicago, Ill., to Harold (publisher) and Jeanette Myra … Has 3 brothers (Todd, Greg, Josh) and 2 sisters (Michelle, Lindsey) … Majoring in business and would like to go into the restaurant business after graduation.

THIS YEAR: Redshirt sophomore Greg Neale is pressing for significant playing time at the Cougars’ “bandit” position ... Is fundamentally sound player who should benefit from his experience in the program ... Has gained size and speed.

2006: Appeared in 3 games during his 2006 redshirt freshman season, collecting 3 tackles along the way ... Registered a pair of tackles vs. Southern Oregon. 2005: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Ernie Cooper at prep power Granite Bay (Calif.) High, playing both linebacker and defensive end … As a 2004 senior, was seventh on the team with 41 tackles … Named All-Metro Conference and all-city first team … Registered a career-high 9 tackles (5 solo) in a loss to Sonora High … Led the team in quarterback sacks … His senior class was the first in school history to go 4 years without a losing a conference game (25-0) … As a 2003 junior tallied 34 tackles, including 2 sacks, to go along with 1 fumble recovery … Was a key member of a Grizzly program that went 20-5-1 during his 2 years, which included capturing back-to-back Metro League championships.

PERSONAL: Born June 24, 1987, in Fullerton, Calif., to Greg (maintenance) and Chrissy (auditor) Neale … Has 4 younger sisters (Patricia, Erica, Rebecca, Cassandra) and a younger brother (Christopher) … Majoring in sociology ... Grandfather and great-grandfather played minor league baseball … Enjoys most water sports, including knee-boarding and tubing.

YEAR   G-GS   SOLO AS'T  TACKLES  TFL  FR
2006   3-0      0    3      3      0    0

THIS YEAR: Junior college transfer David Ofahulu is one of several key newcomers to the Cougar offensive front ... Strong and physical and very aggressive in his play ... Termed a fierce competitor ... Could push for postseason honors.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons of football for head coach Geoff Jones at Santa Ana (Calif.) College ... Was a member of a Dons program that went 13-8 during his 2 seasons ... Was a key blocker for All-American running back Brian Allen.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-year varsity player at Villa Park (Calif.) High where he helped lead the Spartans to a combined 28-6 record ... Was a member of 2 Century League championship and CIF playoff teams.

PERSONAL: Born March 12, 1987, in Orange, Calif., to Tevita and Lavinia Ofahulu ... Has 1 sister (Palaza).

THIS YEAR: An outstanding newcomer to the Cougar offensive line, freshman Robby Palacios is expected to immediately compete for a starting berth ... Quite imposing and very strong ... Rated a strong run blocker and a good athlete ... Has a promising future.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 4 seasons of varsity football for head coach Tim Salter at Upland (Calif.) High ... Was a 2-time All-Baseline League honoree, earning defensive honors as a 2004 junior and offensive/defensive honors as a 2005 senior ... Also collected All-CIF recognition as a nose guard as a senior ... Named All-Inland Empire in 2005.

PERSONAL: Born March 10, 1988, in Montclair, Calif., to Phillip (manager) and Brenda (self employed) Palacios ... Majoring in business with a minor in psychology ... Enjoys paintball and power lifting ... Attended 1 semester each at Citrus College in Glendora, Calif., and NAIA member Pikeville (Ky.) College during the 2006-07 academic year.

THIS YEAR: An outstanding running back, junior Alex Peltier returns to the Cougars at full strength ready to lead what should be a potent Cougar ground game … Strong and powerful … Runs very well between the tackles and is quite physical ... Needs 660 rushing yards to crack the program’s all-time top 10 in rushing.

2006: Missed the entire season with an injury.

2005: Was hampered much of the season by injury and appeared in 6 games as a 2005 true-sophomore, starting 4 before an injury ended his campaign with 5 games remaining … Rushed for 145 yards on 30 carries … Had 8 receptions for 57 yards … Scored 3 TDs … Best game of the season came in a win over Willamette when he tallied 47 rushing yards on 9 carries to go along with a reception for 5 yards.

2004: As a mere true freshman, made a quite a splash during 2-a-days and earned a spot as the back-up to All-American Ben Buys … Moved into the starting line-up when Buys went down with an injury after the fifth game and responded by becoming the Cougars’ top running back, rushing for a school freshman record 743 yards in 14 games, which included a team-high 9 TDs … In his first collegiate start rushed for a career-high 211 yards (eighth best single-game in program history and the best ever by a Cougar freshman) in the Cougars’ 30-3 victory at Chapman … In the comeback victory at Western New Mexico, tallied 97 yards on 24 carries with a career-high 3 TDs, including a 23-yard jaunt that knotted the score at 21-21 in the third quarter … Averaged 77 rushing yards a game and 4.5 yards a carry over the final 9 games of the season … His 17 receptions were tops among all Cougar backs … First collegiate TD came on a 23-yard screen pass in the second game of the season at Olivet Nazarene.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-time team MVP at Santa Fe Christian High where he played for former NFL great Brian Sipe … Was a 3-year varsity member for the Eagles who went 34-4 and won a pair of CIF championships (2001 and 2003) … As a 2003 senior named all-state first team (small school), All-CIF first team and All-North County (San Diego) as a running back after rushing for 1,325 yards and 22 touchdowns in 13 games … Celebrated his 18th birthday by rushing for 127 yards and 4 TDs and scored 31 points in Santa Fe Christian's 61-7 CIF championship game victory over Francis Parker High, a team that had defeated SFCHS, 28-7, earlier in the season when Peltier was out with an injury … Scored 162 points … Named by San Diego Union-Tribune to the All-San Diego team as a linebacker … Was a 3-time All-Coastal League honoree, earning league offensive MVP honors as a junior and senior … As a 2002 junior, selected All-North County as a running back … Also lettered 4 seasons in varsity soccer (forward), earning All-CIF Division V first team honors as a senior.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 17, 1985, in Oceanside, Calif., to Douglas (mechanical designer) and Sally (secretary) Peltier … Has 1 brother (Adam) ... Majoring in business ... Enjoys swimming, skateboarding and cars … Has made mission trips to Mexico.

YEAR   G-GS   C   Yds   Avg   TD   LG   REC  YDS   AVG   TD   LG
2004   14-5  181  743   4.1   9    31   17   137   8.1   1    25
2005    6-4  30   145   4.8   2    21   8    57    7.1   1    15
2006                      injured--did not play                 
Career 20-6  211  888   4.2   11   31   25   194   7.8   2    25

THIS YEAR: Senior Mike Perez is a hard-hitting defensive back with the most experience of any player in the Cougar system … Moves to the “mike” position which will allow him to use his size … Smart about the game … May also see time on special teams.

2006: Started all 10 games in the Cougar secondary during his 2006 junior season ... Recorded 34 tackles, including a career-high 13 (2 solo) vs. Wisconsin-LaCrosse ... Also had a pick against UWL ... Led the team with 5 pass deflections, including 2 vs. Southern Oregon.

2005: Appeared in 9 of the Cougars’ 10 games, starting the final 2 of the season, including the NAIA playoff contest vs. Montana Tech … Tallied a season-best 3 tackles in 3 different games … Forced a fumble against Eastern Oregon that led to an eventual Cougar TD.

2004: Appeared in 9 of the Cougars’ 14 games as a 2004 junior … Had 17 tackles (9 solo), 4 pass deflections and 2 interceptions … Came up with a huge interception in the Cougars’ first-ever victory at Southern Oregon, picking off a Raider pass in the Cougar end zone to thwart SOU’s best scoring opportunity … Other pick came against Valley City State ... Had a career-high 4 tackles vs. Crown.

CAL POLY SLO: Spent 2 seasons at NCAA Division I-AA Cal Poly San Luis Obispo … Redshirted the 2002 season and did not get into any games in 2003:

HIGH SCHOOL: Rushed for school-record 2,584 yards, including 1,054 as a senior, at Burroughs High in Burbank, playing for head coach Keith Knoop ... Tallied 3,461 all-purpose yards and 214 points in his career ... Set school record with 299 rushing yards in a game as a junior vs. Glendale HS ... Longest run from scrimmage was 98 yards vs. Saugus HS... School retired his No. 11 jersey ... Twice earned All-Foothill League and All-Los Angeles Daily News first-team honors ... Was team MVP as a senior … Also eared 3 varsity letters in soccer.

PERSONAL: Born March 28, 1983, in Burbank, Calif., to Hector and Miriam Perez … Has 1 brother (Hector) ... Majoring in business.

YEAR    G-GS   TACKLES   TFL-YDS   SACKS-YDS   INT-YDS   PD
2004    9-2      17         0          0        2-27     4
2005    9-2      15        1-2         0         0       1
2006   10-10     34        2-2         0        1-0      4
Career 28-12     66        3-4         0        3-27     9

THIS YEAR: Transfer Austin Preller offers the Cougars experience and much-needed depth along the Cougar offensive front ... Figures to fill a key reserve role.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons at Shasta College in Redding, Calif., where he was an offensive line-mate of current Cougar Dustin Fortenberry. HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Chris McGowan at Corvallis (Ore.) High where he helped lead the Spartans to their first back-to-back winning seasons in nearly 15 years ... Played along both the offensive and defensive lines ... As a 2004 senior was key player in the Spartans leading the state 4A section in rushing ... Also had a hand in the Spartans setting the school single-game record with 374 rushing yards vs. South Salem ... As a 2003 junior, played for a 9-2 Corvallis squad that advanced to the state playoffs ... Also lettered 1 season in varsity basketball.

PERSONAL: Born April 3, 1987, to Daniel (human resources director) and Janet (risk manager) Preller ... Majoring in social science with a minor in psychology ... Wants to be a high school teacher ... Enjoys coaching youth sports.

THIS YEAR: Transfer Dez Revish returns to football after a 2-year layoff ... Expected to push for significant playing time.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons at state power College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, Calif. ... Was a key member of a Cougar secondary that helped lead COC to a combined 25-1 record and the 2004 national championship with an upset victory of City College of San Francisco ... Earned All-Western States Conference honorable mention as a 2004 sophomore.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at Cleveland High in Reseda, Calif. ... Eared West Valley League first team honors as a running back during his 2002 senior seasons ... Also lettered in basketball (forward) and track (sprints).

PERSONAL: Born April 3, 1985, in Shreveport, La. ... Majoring in pre-law.

THIS YEAR: A strong player, Tyler Roach offers a physical presence in the Cougar backfield ... Teams with Peltier to give the Cougars a powerful punch ... Figures to a be a strong blocking back.

2006: Appeared in 5 games, all off the bench, during his 2006 junior season, his first at Azusa Pacific ... Used almost exclusively as a blocking back but did have 1 carry for 2 yards vs. Malone.

WEST VIRGINIA STATE: Played 2 seasons at NCAA Division II West Virginia State ... As a 2004 freshman appeared in 8 of the Yellow Jackets’ 11 games, primarily as a reserve blocking back … Had 2 receptions ... As a 2005 sophomore played in 9 of 11 games, starting 2, with 1 reception for 8 yards.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Ed Yardall at University City High in San Diego ... As a 2003 senior named All-Harbor League and team defensive MVP ... Played in the Alex Spanos All-Star Game ... Named Academic All-CIF ... Was a 2-time San Diego Union Tribune Scholar-Athlete.

PERSONAL: Born April 3, 1986, in San Diego, Calif., to William (baker) and Laura (dance instructor) Roach ... Has a younger sister (Cariann) and brother (Hayden) ... Majoring in sociology ... Wants to be a teacher ... Likes to fish.

YEAR  G-GS  C  YDS  AVG  TD  LG
2006  5-0   1   2   2.0   0   2

THIS YEAR: An all-around quality player, Casey Roel is the anchor of the Cougar defensive line ... Known as a relentless and dynamic pass rusher … Quite smart about the game and understands the Cougars system very well ... Could push for postseason honors:

2006: Started all 10 games during his 2006 junior season ... Was fifth on the team with 46 tackles (19 solo) and was third with 10 tackles for loss ... Toped the team with 6 QB sacks ... Had a nose for the ball, registering a team-high 3 fumble recoveries, including one he returned 23 yards for his first collegiate score in the game at Southern Nazarene ... Recorded a career-high 10 tackles (2 solo) vs. Humboldt State but his best effort may have come against Dixie State when he tallied 7 tackles (5 solo), including 3.5 sacks for a loss of 27 yards to go along with a forced fumble.

2005: As a 2005 sophomore linebacker, his first season at Azusa Pacific, appeared in 9 of the Cougars’ 10 games, either off the bench as a reserve or on special teams … Recorded 5 tackles, including an 11-yard QB sack in the victory over Willamette.

WHEATON: As a 2004 true-freshman, played on the junior varsity team at Wheaton (Ill.) College but did play on the special teams on the varsity level.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 4-year letterman at Santa Fe Christian High in Solana Beach, Calif., playing for former NFL quarterback Brian Sipe … As a 2003 senior, teamed with current Cougars Alex Peltier and Trevor Love) to lead the Eagles to the CIF championship (played linebacker and running back) … In 13 games had 75 tackles (60 solo), twice tallying a game-high of 10 takedowns … As Peltier’s sidekick in the backfield, rushed for 340 yards on 53 carries (6.4 avg.), scoring 6 TDs … Best game came in a 40-18 victory over Kearny High, rushing for 106 yards and 2 TDs on 11 carries … Named Coastal League Defensive MVP as a junior and senior and All-CIF as a senior … Selected to the All-North County team … Also played 1 season of baseball (outfielder) and ran track (100m).

PERSONAL: Born Sept. 10, 1985, in La Jolla, Calif., to Tom (real estate) and Cindy (accountant) Roel … Has 3 brothers (Nick, Sean, Dane) … Majoring in communication ... Is related to the Boone family of Major League Baseball, Bob (uncle), Bret and Aaron (cousins) … Made mission trips to Africa and Mexico.

YEAR    G-GS   TACKLES   TFL-YDS   SACKS-YDS   INT-YDS   PD
2005    9-0       5        1-11      1-11         0      0 
2006   10-10     46       10-49      6-43         0      3
Career 19-10     51       11-50      7-54         0      3

THIS YEAR: A talented kick returner, senior Trent Sakioka is an impact player who gives Azusa Pacific great diversity among the receiving corps … Has good hands and is noted for his speed … Can turn around a game in a moment’s notice with his punt returns.

2006: Appeared in all 10 games as a reserve during the 2006 season, his first at Azusa Pacific ... Was the Cougars’ top returner and finished fifth in the NAIA punt returns, averaging 14.7 yards over 20 returns ... Had a 69-yard punt return for a TD vs. Dixie State and followed the next week with a 71-yarder for a TD vs. Webber International for the Cougars’ only special team TDs of the season ... Finished with 142 yards on punt returns vs. Dixie State and set up 2 other scores with long returns ... Filled in as a reserve receiver but did not have a catch.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons at Santa Ana (Calif.) College, where he was a 2-time All-Mission Conference pick, which included first team honors as a 2005 sophomore … Also earned All-Mission Conference second team recognition as a punt returner … Had 76 receptions for 877 yards (11.5 avg.) over the course of 2 seasons … Also returned 43 punts for 382 yards (8.9 avg.) … Grabbed a career-high 9 receptions for 153 yards a 28-yard TD catch in a 2005 loss to nationally-ranked Fullerton … Started 19 of the 20 games he played for the Dons.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at La Habra (Calif.) High, where in football he played for head coach Frank Mazzota … Was a key member on the Highlanders’ back-to-back CIF title teams that combined for a 24-4 record over the course of the 2002 and 2003 seasons … As a 2003 senior, named All-CIF Division IX and All-Freeway League first team after tallying 51 receptions for 1,012 yards and 7 TDs … As a defensive back had 3 interceptions … Also lettered soccer and track & field, posting a personal best of 11.40 in the 100 meters.

PERSONAL: Born July 8, 1986, in Garden Gove, Calif., to Stan (retail clerk) and Candace Sakioka … Has 3 brothers (Geoff, Cobin, Sammy) and a sister (Kourtney) … Majoring in biochemistry ... Wants to be a pharmacist.

YEAR  G-GS  PR  YRDS  AVG  TD LG KOR YARDS AVG TD LG
2006  10-0  20  294  14.7   2 71  2   22  11.0  0 15

THIS YEAR: An intense and hard-hitting player, senior Jayson Sanchez is an impact player among the Cougar safeties … Strong and physical … Good technician and excellent in pass coverage ... Consistently makes good decisions.

2006: Appeared in all 10 games during his 2006 junior season ... Recorded 26 tackles, including 1 for loss ... Best game came against Humboldt State, his only start of the season, when he tallied a career-high 11 tackles (3 solo).

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Returned to football after a 4-year layoff and played the past 2 seasons at East Los Angeles College for head coach Ruben Ale … Appeared in 19 of the Huskies’ 20 games … Led the Western State Conference in interceptions with 8 during his 2005 sophomore season … Recorded career single-game bests of 15 tackles (vs. L.A. Harbor) and 3 interceptions (vs. Southwest ).

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Vince Lopez at Gabrielino High in San Gabriel, Calif. … Played both running back and linebacker … As a 2000 senior led the Eagles to their first-ever conference title by tallying a school-record 170 tackles … Named Mission Valley League MVP, All-CIF first team and all-valley by the San Gabriel Valley Tribune … Was a 3-time all-league honoree, including first-team honors as a 1999 junior as both a linebacker and running back … Against El Monte High, rushed for 100 yards and 2 TDs while picking off a pass as well.

PERSONAL: Born June 11, 1983, in Los Angeles, Calif. ... Majoring in exercise and sport science ... Would like to coach and teach … Was a high school and junior college teammate of Cougar assistant coach Adrian Magallon.

YEAR  G-GS  SOLO AS'T TACKLES TFL-YDS SACKS INT FR
2006 10-1     6   20     26     1-1     0    1   0

THIS YEAR: Sophomore Kenny Simmons returns to the Cougars at full strength after missing most of the past 2 seasons with season-ending injuries … Outstanding player whose maturity and skill make his a natural leader among his peers … Great athlete … Very strong and quick for his size … Is an impact player.

2006: Started the first 2 games of the season at linebacker before suffering a season-ending knee injury early in the game at Malone ... Had 5 tackles (4 solo) in the season opener at San Diego ... Granted a medical hardship to have the season restored for eligibility.

2005: Sat out the season with an injury.

2004: As a redshirt freshman, appeared in all 14 games, starting 7 … Collected 40 tackles, including 9 for loss and 4 QB sacks … Had a season-high 5 tackles in 4 different games … Tallied 2 QB sacks in the win at Western New Mexico.

2003: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific, attending classes while practicing with the team.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-year varsity standout at San Diego (Calif.) High, excelling as a running back his first 2 seasons before shining as a defensive back during his 2002 senior campaign … As a 2001 junior rushed for 316 yards in a game, just a yard shy of Helix High’s Reggie Bush (2005 Heisman Trophy winner) for best rushing game in San Diego County