Harris Ross Pittsburg – Football

   The Pirates’ running back was already prepared to be a major workhorse for his team this season, but he was never going to be counted on as much as he was on Sept. 6 when Pittsburg hosted California a week after a season-opening loss in which starting quarterback Keith Walker broke his collarbone. Ross answered the challenge. He carried the ball 30 times for 233 yards and four touchdowns as the Pirates got back on track with a gritty 35-33 win.

   The Pirates’ running back was already prepared to be a major workhorse for his team this season, but he was never going to be counted on as much as he was on Sept. 6 when Pittsburg hosted California a week after a season-opening loss in which starting quarterback Keith Walker broke his collarbone. Ross answered the challenge. He carried the ball 30 times for 233 yards and four touchdowns as the Pirates got back on track with a gritty 35-33 win.

   SportStars Magazine: Tell us about the week of practice you guys had after losing that opening week game to Analy?

   Harris Ross: It was real focused. We came into the (California) game with a mindset that we were going to go hard and try to come out with a win, and that was it.

   SSM: How much pressure did you feel coming into the game, knowing that you guys had a new QB behind center and the team was going to lean heavy on you and fellow RB DeVonte Tarrance?

   HR: I was ready for it. I practiced for it. And I just showed it, and that’s pretty much it.

   SSM: What did the team talk about at halftime after falling behind 14-7 on the final play of the first half?

   HR: We just had to come out stronger and keep battling to get that W. And I’m very proud of my team for doing that. 

   SSM: Coach (Victor) Galli said he built this game up as your Super Bowl. Can you explain that mentality a bit? 

   HR: It was really big. If we would’ve took this loss, the playoff seeding situation (come November) could’ve looked bad for us. I’m just happy that we got this win. We’re going to celebrate tonight and get back at it tomorrow.

HONORABLE MENTION 

Elizabeth Schultz – The Acalances senior who spent her summer competing in the Women’s U.S. Open, started her fall season our right by firing a 67 to set the women’s course record in the City of San Leandro Junior Golf Tournament on Aug 15.

John Velasco – The De La Salle senior running back broke losse for 185 yards and four TDs to help lead the Spartans to an Aug. 30 win over Clayton Valley Charter. 

Courtney Samuda – The Heritage sophomore defeated Tracy’s Melanine Markovic 7-5, 6-3 to win the Freedom Invitational tournament on Sept. 7. She did not drop a set throughout the tournament.