UPDATE: San Pedro’s rising star, kicker Dylan Moreno, is making headlines as he gears up for his junior season with impressive stats and a fierce determination to succeed. Just days ago, Moreno showcased his remarkable skills, making critical field goals that have solidified his reputation in the high school football community.
Moreno, who started his journey as a “scrawny kicker” weighing only 100 pounds, has transformed into a formidable athlete now tipping the scales at 130 pounds. Corey Walsh, the head coach at San Pedro, recalls how the once-unassuming freshman has evolved into a clutch player. “He made a 38-yard field goal with just 12 seconds left to tie the game against Carson,” Walsh said. His prowess continued with successful field goals of 27 and 32 yards in a thrilling overtime victory against Banning at the Coliseum.
In a season characterized by pressure, Moreno’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. He successfully completed seven of nine field goals and 45 of 47 PATs, earning him an All-City title. His focus this offseason has been on building strength and weight, training alongside linemen to command respect in the weight room.
Moreno’s father, Wilmer, a former kicker who made a pivotal 28-yard field goal in the 1997 City championship game, has been a constant source of encouragement. “He always told San Pedro coaches that his son was coming,” said Mike Walsh, the former head coach. Dylan fondly recalls the moments spent practicing at San Pedro since the fifth grade, saying, “My dad took me to San Pedro because he always wanted me to be a kicker. Ever since, I fell in love with the game.”
Despite his size at 5-foot-7, Moreno is not daunted by the physicality of the game. “I’m not scared when I see people on the field,” he asserts. “If I have to tackle someone, I’m ready for that.” His coach praises his ability to thrive under pressure, stating, “His accuracy has been amazing.”
As he prepares for the upcoming season, Moreno is determined to prove himself. “I’ve been grinding my butt off to show that I can be a legend at this school,” he said. With the season approaching, all eyes will be on Moreno as he aims to make an even bigger impact on the field.
Kickers to watch this season include:
– Gabriel Goroyan, Westlake, 5-11, 175, Jr.: Noted for his strong leg and relentless work ethic.
– Jacob Kreinberg, Loyola, 6-0, 195, Sr.: Successful with 11 of 14 field goals last season.
– Aiden Migirdichian, Orange Lutheran, 5-11, 160, Sr.: Achieved a perfect record of nine for nine on field goals as a junior.
– Carter Montgomery, Claremont, 6-1, 153, Sr.: Holds a school record with a 48-yard field goal.
– CJ Wallace, St. John Bosco, 5-11, 160, Sr.: A Washington commit who continues to excel.
With Moreno at the forefront, San Pedro football fans are in for an exciting season. Keep an eye on this emerging talent as he aims to solidify his legacy on the field.
