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

THIS YEAR: Redshirt freshman Chris Brown is set for his first collegiate action after redshirting the 2006 campaign ... Figures in a reserve role at the outset of the season ... Has good speed and may see time on special teams ... Could develop into an every-game player for an already strong Cougar defense.

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

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-year starter for head coach Mike Parsons at state power Modesto (Calif.) Christian High, playing both fullback and linebacker ... Was a key member of a Crusader program that went 23-3 and advanced to the CIF San Joaquin Section championship game in both 2005 and 2006 ... As a 2005 junior tallied 96 tackles and followed with 74 tackles during an injury-shortened 2006 senior campaign when he missed the final 5 weeks of the season ... As a running back rushed for 505 yards on 45 carries (11.2 avg.) ... Registered a pair of 100-yard rushing games during his senior season vs. Le Grand (104 on 11 carries) and Riverbank (106 on 7 carries) ... Also tallied a career-high 15 tackles vs. Riverbank ... Had 11 tackles, including a pair of sacks in a victory over Denair ... Also returned an interception 48 yards for a TD in a victory over Bret Harte ... Modesto Christian won a pair of league championships while going 13-0 in conference play during Brown’s 2 seasons on varsity ... Ran track & field (400 & 800) for 3 seasons.

PERSONAL: Born March 24, 1989, in Modesto, Calif. ... Parents are Jeff (nurse) and Kim (nurse) Brown ... Has a younger brother (Aaron) and a younger sister (Natalie) ... Majoring in biochemistry with the hope of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.

THIS YEAR: One of the top newcomers in the program, junior college transfer James Brunt literally and figuratively fills a hole on the defensive front ... Expected to have a great impact on opposing ground games ... Could push for postseason honors ... Strong and physical.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 1 season of junior college football for head coach Mark McElroy at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, Calif. … Used primarily as a defensive tackle, tallying 20 tackles for the 7-3 Gauchos … Did carry the ball once as a fullback, rushing for a yard … Attended Santa Ana (Calif.) College but did not play.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 4 seasons of varsity football for head coach Bruce Rollinson at state power Mater Dei High in Santa Ana, Calif. … Played both defensive end and running back … As a 2005 senior, rushed for a team-leading 689 yards on 161 carries (4.3 avg.) while registering 9 TDs … Best game came against league rival St. John Bosco, rushing for 113 yards on 21 carries with 3 TDs … Named All-Serra League first team for his play … Was a 4-year starter at fullback, including as a 13-year freshman in 2002.

PERSONAL: Born Oct. 19, 1987, in Santa Ana, Calif. … Parents are James (aerospace machinist) and Whitney (administrator) Brunt … Has 1 brother (Andrew) and 5 sisters (Priscilla, Janet, Jessica, Jacquelyn, Jayden) … Majoring in business … Would like to go into personal finance … Plays the piano and enjoys art.

THIS YEAR: Senior 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 and has become a constant on special teams ... Quite popular with his teammates.

2007: Appeared in 8 of the Cougars' 11 games, primarily on special teams, but was a reserve in the receiving corps ... Registered the first 3 receptions of his college career, including 2 for 22 yards vs. Wisconsin-La Crosse ... His other catch was a 4-yard grab the following week at Nicholls State ... Collected 11 tackles (6 solo), all on special teams ... Had 3 takedowns in the victory over Whitworth.

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: Competed 2 seasons for Azusa Pacific's national power track & field program , 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) Burke ... His mother (Lisa) passed away in the spring of 2008 ... 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 REC YARDS AVG  TD  LG TACKLES
2005  1-0   0    0    -    0   0    0
2006  8-0   0    0    -    0   0    5
2007  8-0   3   22   7.3   0  15   11    
      9-0   3   22   7.3   0  15   16

THIS YEAR: One of the most experienced Cougars on the defensive side of the ball, senior Brain Casey is a 3-year letterman who has played 24 games in the Azusa Pacific system, including the past 21 in a row (starting 19) ... Expected to be a leader on what should be a strong defense ... Rated strong against the run and reads very well ... Is quite durable and dependable.

2007: Appeared in all 11 games as a 2007 junior, starting 9 ... Was ninth on the team with 39 tackles which included 4 tackles for loss and a hand in 3 quarterback sacks ... Best game came in a 38-34 victory over Whitworth when he registered a career-high 10 tackles to go along with half a sack and a forced fumble ... In the season-opener vs. MidAmerica Nazarene at the First Down Classic, prevented a touchdown with an interception at the 1-yard line ... Had 7 tackles in the win at Dixie State.

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 season-high 9 tackles vs. Wisconsin-LaCrosse ... 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 (cornerback and running back), soccer (goalie) and baseball (third baseman) during his senior year ... On the gridiron, led the Eagles to an 11-1 record during his 2002 senior season ... His best game came against rival Immanuel High when he rushed for over 100 yards and had an interception ... 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 ... 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
2007   11-5    16   23     39     4-22    2.5-19   1
      24-13    32   53     85    10-37      4-20   2

THIS YEAR: Redshirt sophomore Ryan Chamberlin is set to move into a significant role, competing for a starting spot among the Cougar receiving corps ... Could possible see time on special teams as well.

2007: Appeared in his first collegiate game, getting in late in the home-opener vs. San Diego ... It was his only live action of the season.

2006: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific, while attending classes.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-time All-Big Sky selection during his 3-year varsity career at Linfield School in Temecula, Calif., where he played for former Cougar Chris Fore ... As a 2005 senior, named all-conference first team and all-valley second team after tallying 1,720 all-purpose yards ... Led the Lions in rushing (627 yards), receiving (525) and scoring (90 points off 15 TDs) ... Also had 4 interceptions on defense ... Named team MVP ... Rushed for 70 or more yards in 4 of the Lions' 11 games with his best effort coming against Parker High when he tallied 121 yards on just 9 carries, scoring 2 TDs on runs of 60 and 42 yards ... As a defensive back, recorded a career-high 12 tackles to go along with an interception in a loss to Hamilton ... As a 2004 junior earned All-Big Sky second team honors for the 10-2-1 Lions who advanced to the CIF semifinals ... Was second on the team in receptions, averaging over 35 yards a grab while scoring a pair of TDs, one of which was a 68-yard bomb in a 28-20 victory over Malibu High ... Also competed 2 years on the Linfield track & field team, running relays for former U.S. champion and Olympic distance runner Ruth Wysocki.

PERSONAL: Born April 1, 1988, in Whittier, Calif. ... Parents are Steve (vice president of sales) and Mychele Chamberlin ... Has 1 sister (Alycia) ... His father played football at Whittier College and played against Azusa Pacific in the early 1980s ... Majoring in physical education ... Plays the guitar.

THIS YEAR: Redshirt sophomore Garrett Chambers is an experienced lineman who will push for playing time along the Cougar front, primarily at center ... Understand the system well and is considered a key reserve.

2007: Played in 3 of the Cougars' 11 games during his 2007 redshirt freshman season ... Started a pair of contests at center vs. Wisconsin-La Crosse and Webber International.

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: True freshman Josh Coburn is a promising lineman with good fundamentals and a quality understanding of the game ... May need a season to adjust to the college game but has a bright future ahead of him.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 varsity seasons for head coach John Barnes at longtime power Los Alamitos (Calif.) High ... As a 2007 senior named All-Sunset League after helping lead the Griffins to a 7-3 record ... Also lettered 2 years in track & field (throws).

PERSONAL: Born Nov. 27, 1989, in Long Beach, Calif. ... Parents are Todd (mechanical engineer) and Kathryn (cosmetologist) Coburn ... Has a younger brother (Justin) and sister (Jessica) ... Has not declared a major but would prefer to do something with law or medicine.

THIS YEAR: Arguably the finest wide receiver in the NAIA, senior Jon Davis is a catalyst on the Cougar offensive attack ... A fantastic athlete with outstanding hands and better than average speed ... Uses his size very well, particularly in the open field ... Ranks among Azusa Pacific’s all-time top ten in receptions (seventh), receiving yards (sixth), touchdown receptions (first tied) and scoring (eighth tied) ... Has caught at least 1 pass in 21 consecutive games ... Is a 2-time NAIA All-Scholar-Athlete.

2007: Put together perhaps the finest season ever by a Cougar receiver and as a result was named Victory Sports Network All-American first team ... Led the NAIA (second in all of college football) with a school-record 21 touchdown receptions, shattering the former standard of 15 set by All-American Dexter Davis during Azusa Pacific’s 1998 NAIA championship run ... Also scored a school-record 128 points, breaking the former record of 126 set in 1986 by eventual NFL Pro-Bowler Christian Okoye ... Started all 11 games, finishing with 73 receptions (third best season in Cougar history) for 1,258 yards (second best), while averaging 17.2 yard a grab ... Had TD catches in 8 games, including 7 of the final 8 and the last 4 in a row ... Three times tied the school single-game record with 4 TDs catches, including in the season-opener vs. No. 17-ranked MidAmerica Nazarene University at the inaugural VSN First Down Classic ... Also had 4 TD catches in a 38-7 Cougar thumping on Southern Nazarene University and then scored 4 more, including the game-winner, in a 38-34 victory over NCAA Division III No. 23-ranked Whitworth ... Scored on a 41-yard TD strike with 38 seconds left to force overtime at Wisconsin-La Crosse ... Also scored on a 40-yard bomb with 1:27 remaining to give Azusa Pacific a short-lived 28-27 lead over nationally-ranked Nicholls State University ... Registered 4 games with 8 or more receptions, including a career-high 10 for 183 yards in a 31-20 victory at Webber International University ... Tallied 7 100-yard receiving games and was fifth in the NAIA with 1,258 receiving yards (only third Cougar ever to post a 1,000-yard receiving season) ...

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 season-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 ... Did not play football since the high school did not have a program.

PERSONAL: Born Sept. 5, 1985, in Lodi, Calif., to Dean (manager) and Jane (athletic director) Davis ... Has 1 brother (Matt, member of the Cougar football team) 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       
2007   11-11   73   1258    17.2  21    59      0   
       28-21  106   1639    15.5  25    59     10

THIS YEAR: Transfer Matt Davis returns to football after a 1-year layoff and expected to vie for time either as a reserve receiver or on special teams ... A good athlete who has raw abilities that allow him to be effective ... Moves his focus to receiver after putting together a fine high school career at running back and safety.

HIGH SCHOOL: Competed in 4 different sports at Jim Elliot Christian High School in Lodi, Calif., from where he graduated in 2007 ... Played on Jim Elliot's first-ever football team ... As a senior, named All-Harvest Christian League and league MVP after rushing for 1,173 yards on 121 carries (9.7 avg.) while scoring a team-leading 25 TDs ... Also had 14 receptions for a team high 383 yards (27.4 avg.) ... Averaged per game 117.3 yard total offense and 215.4 all-purpose yards while leading the Eagles to a 7-4 record ... Best game came in a 41-14 victory over North Hills Christian when he rushed for a career-high 202 yards on 10 carries and had 3 receptions for 53 yards ... Also rushed for 191 yards on 7 carries in a 54-12 win over Big Valley Christian High ... As a 2005 junior, appeared in 4 games before a broken collar bone ended his season ... Still, rushed for 281 yards on 45 carries (6.2 avg.) while scoring 4 TDs for the 6-3 Eagles ... As a 2004 sophomore was named team MVP for the 8-2 Eagles after rushing for 946 yards on 101 carries (9.4 avg.) and scoring a team-high 14 TDs ... Was also a 2-year standout in basketball and as a senior earned all-league and team MVP recognition after averaging 15.3 points and 12.1 rebounds while leading Jim Elliot Christian High to a 13-11 record in 2007 ... Also lettered 4 years in golf and one year in track & field ... Served as senior class president.

PERSONAL: Born Sept. 22, 1989, in Lodi, Calif. ... Parents are Dean (manager) and Jane (high school athletics director) Davis ... Has a brother (Jon, member of the Cougar football team) and a sister (Katie) ... Majoring in business with a minor in math ... Attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for one year before transferring to Azusa Pacific.

THIS YEAR: With added size and strength, junior Tyler Davis is making the switch from quarterback to fullback in hopes of seeing added playing time ... Comes from a high school background in which he ran an option-style offense and therefore has experience running with the ball.

2007: Did not appear in any games during his 2007 redshirt sophomore season, serving as a backup quarterback.

2006: Saw his first collegiate action on special teams, making a tackle in the Cougars' game vs. Whitworth.

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 sixth on Azusa Pacific's all-time passing chart) ... Majoring in exercise and sport science.

THIS YEAR: One of 52 true freshmen to join Azusa Pacific, Jake Dawson is an exciting newcomer with a lot of potential to develop into an impact player.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 3-sport standout at Horizon High in San Diego ... Earned 3 varsity letters in football playing for head coach Chris Johnson ... Was a 2-time All-Coastal League second-team pick ... As a 2007 senior, was second on the team with 91 tackles, averaging 8.3 a game for the 3-8 Panthers ... Best game came in a 29-11 victory over Hamilton in which he registered a career-high 20 tackles (8 solo) ... Also rushed for 308 yards on 52 carries (5.9 avg.) as a fullback ... Scored 2 TDs ...As a 2006 junior, tallied 86 tackles (second on the team) ... Recorded a season-high 13 tackles in a tie with Christian High ... Also competed 1 season in track & field (sprints) and soccer (defender).

PERSONAL: Born July 19, 1990, in San Diego, Calif. ... Parents are Jim (project manager) and Kim (teacher) Dawson ... Has 1 sister (Rebecca) ... Has not declared a major.

THIS YEAR: A physical running back, senior Armon DeLauney enters the 2008 season at full strength and set to give the Cougars the bruising type of runner they've needed in the backfield the past 3 seasons ... Teams with Alex Peltier and Chris Brown to give the Cougars a versatile and deep backfield.

2007: Appeared in 5 games of an injury-plagued 2007 junior season ... Rushed for 14 yards on 15 carries, never really able to find his rhythm ... Had 8 yards on 5 carries vs. Southern Nazarene ... Missed the first 3 games of the season and then another 2 midway through the campaign.

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 the Azusa Pacific NAIA championship track & field team in 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.

YEAR  G-GS CARRIES YARDS  AVG  TD  LG
2007  5-0    14     13    0.9   0   4

THIS YEAR: Senior Todd Dini is an experienced player who has appeared in 21 games over the past 2 season on both sides of the line and on special teams ... Figures in a key reserve role along the Cougar defensive front ... Is the Cougars' back-up long snapper.

2007: Played in all 11 games, primarily on special teams but did see limited time along the defensive front ... Recorded 5 tackles in 5 difference games.

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 former student at Azusa Pacific).

YEAR  G-GS  SOLO AS'T TACKLES  FR  FF
2006  10-0    2    3     5      0   0
2007  11-0    3    2     5      0   0
      21-0    5    5    10      0   0

THIS YEAR: Senior Dustin Fortenberry is 1of 5 returning starters to the Cougar offensive front ... Entering his third year in the program ... Bring quality experience and leadership ... Plays well in both the run block and pass protection.

2007: Returned to live action after a year off and started at left guard in all 11 games, including the Humboldt State in which he had a broken hand.

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: Senior Joel Garnica return to the starting offensive line at center where he excels in run blocking … Is a key in the Cougar ground game.

2007: Appeared in all 11 games, starting 9 at center, as a 2007 junior.

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 physical player with a promising future, redshirt freshman Austin Gordon is a good athlete who will press for playing time ... Could prove to be a key on special teams ... Has good speed.

2007: Redshirted his first year at Azusa Pacific while attending classes.

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: Another member of the largest freshman class in Azusa Pacific football history, Eric Granger has a chance to play as a true freshman, either as a reserve linebacker or on special teams ... Noted for his strength and agility.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football at L.A. Baptist High in North Hills, Calif. ... Was a 2-time All-Olympic League first team honoree ... Was also a 2-time team defensive player of the year ... As a 2007 senior led the team with 110 tackles (11 per game), which included a career-high 15 in a loss to Oak Park High ... Also had 14 tackles (12 solo) in a setback to Valley Christian High ... Also served the team as a running back (139 yards and 2 TDs) and punter (34.0 avg.) ... As a 2006 junior led the team with 83 tackles (42 solo) ... Came on strong toward the end of the season with 44 tackles in the final 4 games, including a season-high 12 vs. Village Christian High ... Lettered 2 years in soccer before giving up the sport to play varsity basketball as a senior ... Also competed on the Knights’ track & field team for 2 seasons ... Served as student council president.

PERSONAL: Born Oct. 30, 1990, in Westwood, Calif. ... Parents are Jim (business vice president) and Lorita (UCLA athletic trainer) Granger ... Has 1 sister (Jenny) ... His father played football at Cal State Fullerton ... Majoring in biochemistry with a minor in business ... Would like to go into product development.

THIS YEAR: An important returnee to the Cougar defensive front, John Green is a physical force with a knack for pressuring quarterbacks ... Is expected to have an excellent season ... Known for his quickness and tenacity.

2007: Was a late addition to the Cougars, joining the team less than 2 weeks prior to the season-opener ... Went on to appear in 10 of the Cougars' 11 games, starting 5 at defensive end ... Recorded 27 tackles, which included 2.5 quarterback sacks ... Tallied a season-high 6 tackles vs. Southern Oregon ... Had 5 tackles and a sack in win over No. 23-ranked Malone.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played the 2006 season at Fresno City College, where he helped lead the Rams to an 8-3 record ... Originally signed with NCAA Division I FCS Sacramento State before changing his mind and enrolling at Azusa Pacific prior to the start of the 2007 season.

FRESNO STATE: Walked on to the program at Fresno State where he spent the 2004 (redshirt) and 2005 (reserve) seasons ... Appeared in 1 game, recording a tackle.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 1 season of varsity football at Luther Burbank High in Sacramento, Calif., from where he graduated in 2004 ... Played for head coach John Heffernan ... Also competed in rugby.

PERSONAL: Born May 16, 1986, in Sacramento, Calif. ... Parents are Paulo (county worker) and Lupe (nurse) Green ... Has 3 brothers (Afa, Polo, Ben) and 2 sisters (Neni, Bev).

THIS YEAR: Junior Sal Gutierrez is a hard-hitting junior college transfer who is expected to compete for a starting position ... Good athlete who is known for his tenacity.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons for head coach Mike Clemens at Sacramento (Calif.) City College ... As a 2007 sophomore, appeared in 9 of the Panthers' 10 games ... Was fifth on the team with 37 tackles, which included 6 for loss ... Also had an interception for the 4-6 Panthers ... Intercepted a pass and blocked a field goal in the Panthers' 41-39 victory at Diablo Valley.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for Pete McFadden at Tokay High in Lodi, Calif. ... As a 2005 senior was named Tri-City League defensive MVP after setting a school season-record with 174 tackles (96) solo in just 10 games ... Broke the school single-game record with 26 tackles vs. West High ... Tallied 13 tackles, 1 interception and a blocked punt in a victory over Edison High ... As a 2004 junior recorded 60 tackles (24 solo) ... Also lettered 3 seasons in varsity basketball (guard), 2 in track & field and 1 in swimming.

PERSONAL: Born July 11, 1987, in Stockton, Calif. ... Parents are Salvador and Anna Gutierrez ... Has 3 sisters (Yessenia, Priscila, Selinda) ... Majoring in exercise & sport science ... Would like to be a physical therapist ... An excellent student, was a scholar-athlete all 4 years of high school and made the honor roll for 4 semesters in junior college ... Enjoys snowboarding, wakeboarding and camping.

THIS YEAR: Perhaps the top place-kicker in the NAIA, junior Ben Hansen is a valuable offensive weapon for Azusa Pacific ... Is deadly accurate and enters the season having made his past 11 field goals in a row, just 1 shy of Mike Betancourth's school-record 12 set during the 2004 and 2005 seasons ... Very good from 45 yards in ... Will push the school records for longest field goal (currently 54 yards) and most in a career (36) ... Has never had a kick blocked and has made 58 consecutive PATs.

2007: Fashioned perhaps the finest season ever by a Cougar place-kicker ... Converted 16-of-17 field goal attempts for an NAIA leading .941 field goal percentage (min. 5 attempts) ... Only miss was a 35-yarder at Wisconsin-La Crosse ... His 16 field goals were second most in school history, trailing only Betancourth's 19 in 2004 ... Attempted and made at least one field goal in 10 of the Cougars' 11 games, including a career-high 3 in the Cougars' 30-20 win at Dixie State ... Was a perfect 5-for-5 from beyond 40 yards out, including a career-long 49-yarder in the Cougars' win over Southern Nazarene ... Also hit a 48-yarder in the victory at Humboldt State ...Averaged 59.5 yards on his 62 kickoffs, 13 of which were not returned, including 11 touchbacks.

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.

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
2007 11  37-37  16-17   8-8    3-4    5-5    0   49  0
     21  58-58  21-24  12-12   3-4    6-8    0   49  0

THIS YEAR: Senior Andre Hunter has been a steady figure in the Cougar secondary the past 2 seasons, appearing in 16 games ... Figures to push for a starting assignment at cornerback ... Very smart about the game and rated a good athlete.

2007: Appeared in all 11 of the Cougars games, coming off the bench in all of them ... Has 16 tackles (5 solo), including a career-best 4 vs. San Diego ... Came up with a pair of pass deflections in the 38-34 win over Whitworth ... In the Cougars' 27-17 victory at Humboldt State, recovered a key fumble at the Cougar 6-yard line to thwart a potential early Lumberjack score.

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 as a cornerback after tallying 6 interceptions … Also played running back … 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 … Had a best of 10.9 in the 100 meters … 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 3 brothers (DeJuan, Michael, Joshua) ... 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
2007  10-0     5   11      16      2-4         0       0   1   4     
      16-0     7   13      20      2-4         0       0   1   5

THIS YEAR: An upbeat yet intense player, senior Matt Johnson is a team leader and a key contributor ... Will battle for a starting spot along the defensive front and offer great depth for the Cougars ...Very strong and noted for his tenacity ... Penciled to serve as the team long-snapper as well.

2007: As a 2007 junior, his first as a Cougar, appeared in all 11 games, starting the final 9 in a row ... Was eighth on the team with 43 tackles (12 solo) ... Best showing came in his first start (sixth game of the season) vs. Southern Oregon when he tallied 9 tackles including 1.5 for loss ... Had 7 tackles and a sack vs. Malone and 4 tackles, including 2 sacks, vs. Dixie State ... Was the Cougar long-snapper in all 10 games as well.

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 coach wrestling and football ... Coached girl's wrestling at West Covina High and had 4 girls place at the state meet in 2007 and coached a 2008 state champ.

YEAR  G-GS  SOLO  AS'T  TACKLES  TFL-YDS  SACKS-YDS  FF  FR  PD
2007  10-3   12    31      43      6-23     3-18      1   0   0

THIS YEAR: Redshirt freshman Jake Jones is set to battle for playing time along the Cougar defensive front ... Is quick and strong and gives the Cougars quality depth ... Could appear on special teams.

2007: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 1 year of varsity football at Southwest High in Imperial, Calif. ... As a 2006 senior was named all-valley and finishing third on the team with 57 tackles (26) ... Was also a standout wrestler and as a result was named the school's athlete of year during his senior year.

PERSONAL: Born April 25, 1989, in La Jolla, Calif. ... Parents are Dennis (retired) and Bonnie (teacher) Jones ... His dad played basketball at John Brown University ... His older brother, Danny, was an all-conference basketball player at Biola University ... Has not declared a major ... Enjoys fishing and motorcycles.

THIS YEAR: A bruising fullback, junior David Kim teams with Alex Peltier and Chris Brown to give the Cougars a constant physical presence in the backfield ... Deceptively elusive.

2007: Appeared in all 10 games, coming off the bench as a reserve fullback ... Rushed 81 yards on 30 carries and scored a TD ... Best effort came in a season-finale victory at Webber International University where he rushed for 48 yards on 10 carries and scored a TD on a 1-yard blast that gave the Cougars a 21-6 halftime lead ... Also played on special teams.

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 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
2007  10-0   30    81     2.7   1    19    2    24    12.0  0    17
      16-0   49   153     3.1   2    19    4    67    16.8  0    22

THIS YEAR: Another in a long line of returning offensive linemen, senior Jonathan Klish is a smart and experienced player who gives the Cougars great depth along the front ... Should be a key in the Cougar scheme.

2007: Appeared in all 11 of the Cougars' games during his 2007 junior season ... Started 3 contests ... Played center and guard.

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: The hard-hitting Joe LaPorta returns to battle for significant playing time ... Brings size and a physical presence to the defense ... May play on special teams as well.

2007: Came off the bench in 10 of the Cougars' 11 games (missed the season-opener vs. MidAmerica Nazarene), recording 8 tackles (4 solo), including 1 for loss ... Had a single-game best 3 tackles in the Cougars' win over Southern Nazarene.

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. ... Parents are 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.

YEAR  G-GS  SOLO  AS'T TACKLES TFL-YDS SACKS-YDS FF  FR  PD
2007  10-0    4     4     8     0.5-1      0      0   0   0

THIS YEAR: A veteran of the Cougar secondary, Beau Leaman has appeared in 27 games over the past 3 seasons ... Not necessarily a flashy player but is smart and player ... Understands the Cougar system very well ... Expected to have a good season.

2007: Started all 11 games at safety for Azusa Pacific during his 2007 junior season ... Was sixth on the team with 52 tackles and second with 2 interceptions ... Put together his best game as a Cougar in a 38-34 victory over Whitworth, tallying a career-high 11 tackles (3 solo) while forcing a fumble ... Had 6 tackles and another forced fumble in the win over Malone ... Collected his first-ever collegiate interception in an overtime loss at Wisconsin-La Crosse ... Had another interception late in the game at Humboldt State to preserve the Cougar victory.

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 psychology ... Enjoys hiking and camping.

Year   G-GS  Solo As't  Tackles  TFL  FR Yards  TD  LG
2005    8-0    6   4      10    1-15   0    -    -   - 
2006    8-0    5   7      12     1-4   1    -    0   0
2007   11-11  22  30      52     1-2   0    3    0   3
       27-11  33  41      74    3-21   1    3    0   0

THIS YEAR: Hard-nosed Zach Leary is a feisty, physical runner set for his first live collegiate action ... Figures in a reserve role at the outset of the season.

2007: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity football for head coach Mitch Sanders at Tigard (Ore.) High ... Played both running back and linebacker for the Tigers ... Also competed for the Tigers in lacrosse, track & field and skiing.

PERSONAL: Born Jan. 26, 1989, in Portland, Ore. ... Parents are Dave (remodeler) and Kathy (secretary) ... Has 1 older brother (David, a former standout defensive lineman for the Cougars from 2001-04) ... Majoring in pre-med.

THIS YEAR: An impressive player, Andrew Leasau is set to take to the field after redshirting last year ... At the outset, figures in a reserve role but should see time in the Cougars' 4-man front.

2007: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

JUNIOR COLLGE: Played 2 seasons for head coach Reggie Bolton at Santa Barbara (Calif.) City College ... Was a linebacker for the Vaqueros, who posted a combined record of 7-13 during Leasau's time.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of football (linebacker) and volleyball (setter) at Bonita Vista High in San Diego from where he graduated in 2005.

PERSONAL: Born June 11, 1987, in San Diego ... Parents are Bismark (hotel manager) and Tan (accountant) Leasau ... Has 3 brothers (Aaron, John, Samson) and 2 sisters (Charity, Chelsea) ... Majoring in exercise and sport science with a minor in music.

THIS YEAR: A key newcomer to the program, punter Corey Lenahan has a strong leg that should prove quite helpful for the Cougars ... Could push for honors ... Relatively new to the game.

2007: Played his 2007 junior season at NCAA Division II Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Okla. ... Appeared in all 11 games for the 6-5 Bulldogs, averaging a Lone Start Conference high 41.0 yards over his 57 punts, 20 of which stopped inside the foe's 20-yard line ... Had a best punt of 60 yards.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Begin playing competitive football for the first time and split his junior college career between a season each at Mt. San Antonio College (2005) in Walnut, Calif., and Riverside (Calif.) Community College (2006) ... While at Riverside, appeared in all 10 of the Tigers games and nearly a third of his 34 punts stopped inside the opponent's 20-yard line ... Had a long of 57 yards ... Averaged just over 34 yards a punt ... Played sparingly at Mt. SAC and attempted 3 field goals.

HIGH SCHOOL: Attended La Mirada (Calif.) High from where he graduated in 1998 ... Briefly played junior varsity football.

PERSONAL: Born Oct. 8, 1980, in West Covina, Calif. ... Mother is Denice McManigal ... Has 4 sisters (Kristen, Tracy, Jessica, Kimberly) ... Majoring in business ... Enjoys following the stock market and golfing.

THIS YEAR: Another in a long line of offensive linemen with experience, redshirt sophomore Mike Loumagne is a versatile player that offers flexibility along the front line.

2007: As a 2007 redshirt freshman appeared in 4 games along the Cougar offensive front, all in a reserve role.

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: An excellent defensive back who will be a key figure in the Cougar defense, sophomore Trevor Love is an impact player ... Terrific athlete who is smart about the game ... Can cover a lot of ground and hits hard.

2007: As a 2007 redshirt freshman, appeared in the Cougars' first 8 games, all off the bench, before an injury ended his season with 3 weeks to go ... Finished with 22 tackles (9 solo) ... Was playing his best football of the season when the injury occurred, registering a career-high 6 tackles in the victories over Southern Nazarene and Humboldt State ... Recovered a fumble vs. Southern Oregon that led to a Cougar field goal.

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 played baseball at Biola) ... Majoring in exercise sport and science with a minor in business ... Wants to go into coaching after college.

THIS YEAR: One of the few newcomers to the Cougar offensive line, junior college transfer Louis Magallon will be battling for a key role throughout the season ... Likely to see time at guard ... Offers quality depth along the front for the Cougars.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 years for former Cougar assistant Kevin Emerson at Citrus College (Glendora, Calif.) where he was a 2-time All-Western States Conference honoree on the Owl offensive line ... As a 2007 sophomore was named all-conference second team and Citrus offensive player of the year ... Played in the Orange County Bowl against Fullerton College ... As a 2006 freshman was named Citrus’ most outstanding offensive freshman while leading the Owls to their fourth straight conference title.

HIGH SCHOOL: Earned 2 varsity letters while playing for former Cougar QB Greg Gano at Los Altos High in Hacienda Heights, Calif. ... Was a 2-time All-Miramonte League first team honoree (both offense and defense as a senior) while leading the Conquerors to a pair of league co-championships ... As a 2005 senior also named All-CIF first team and San Gabriel Valley Tribune All-Area second team ... Named to the San Gabriel Valley Hall of Fame football game as a senior ... Awarded the Conqueror of the Year for the team ... Spent his 2003 sophomore season on the varsity team at Gabrielino High in San Gabriel, Calif.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 7, 1987, in Los Angeles ... Parents are Adrian (business owner) and Sally (postal worker) Magallon ... Has 3 brothers (Adrian, former Cougar defensive back and current assistant coach, Andre, Leonard) and a sister (Jennifer) ... Majoring in history ... Wants to teach and coach.

THIS YEAR: A possible diamond-in-the-rough, true freshman Luke Marquardt returns to football for the first time in 4 years ... Good athlete who is raw and but is mobile and physical ... Tallest athlete ever in a Cougar football history.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 1 season of varsity basketball for head coach Jim Skagen at Skyline High in Sammamish, Wash. ... As a 2008 senior scored 12 points in 12 games for the 15-11 Spartans, who advanced to the playoffs for the first time in 8 years ... Played freshman football at Skyline in 2004.

PERSONAL: Born March 3, 1990 ... Parents are Adam (pastor) and Pam (coach) Marquardt ... Has 2 younger sisters (Olivia, Joanna) and a younger brother (Aaron) ... Has not declared a major but plans to minor in art ... Would like to eventually work for an international ministry that serves the poor and needy.

THIS YEAR: A good athlete, Brandon McLaughlin is battling for a key spot among the Cougars receiving corps ... Has the potential to make big plays.

2007: Made the switch to offense after spending his first season in the Cougar secondary ... Did not have a reception in 5 games he played but did tally 4 tackles, all on special teams.

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
2006  6-0    1    5     6    0      0
2007  6-0    1    3     4    0      0

THIS YEAR: Redshirts freshman Eric Moreno is competing for playing time among the Cougar backers ... Noted for his toughness and grit ... Has a year in the Cougar system under his belt.

2007: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Larry Fetkenhier at state power Cactus High in Glendale, Ariz. ... Was a 2-time All-Wells Fargo Region selection, including his 2004 senior season when the Cobras went 12-2 and finished as the state 4A runner-up ... Recorded 38 tackles (17 solo) in the 10 games he played ... Cactus also went 12-2 during Moreno's 2003 junior season and was the state runner-up.

PERSONAL: Born May 12, 1987, in Torrance, Calif. ... Parents are David (driver) and Gloria (insurance supervisor) Moreno ... Has 2 brothers (David, Jakob) and a sister (Jenavi) ... His older brother David is a senior linebacker at NAIA member Trinity International University ... Majoring in business ... Would like to own a small business someday ... Enjoys riding motorcycles.

THIS YEAR: One of 14 redshirt freshmen in the program, Michael Moreno is battling for key role among the Cougar linebackers.

2007: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific while working off the rust of a 2-year layoff from the game.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-sport standout at Northern California power Valley Christian High in San Jose, Calif. ... Earned 2 varsity letters in football playing for head coach Mike Machado ... Was a member of 2 CIF championship team that combined for a 27-3 record over the course of the 2003 and 2004 seasons ... As a senior was named All-San Jose Mercury News and All-West Catholic Athletic League first team ... In 11 games played tallied 110 tackles, 3 fumble recoveries and a pair of interceptions ... As a result was named All-CIF second team and was chosen for the Silicon Valley All-Star Game ... Also lettered 2 years in baseball (middle infielder).

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played baseball at West Valley College in Saratoga, Calif., during the 2006 season ... Batted .375 in 25 games for the Vikings.

PERSONAL: Born June 11, 1987, in San Jose, Calif. ... Parents are Hector (lawyer) and Christine Moreno ... Has 2 brothers (Ben, Luke) and 2 sisters (Anna, Apryl) ... Majoring in English ... Would like to go into law.

THIS YEAR: Junior Rick Myra returns to the program battling for a significant role in the Cougar offensive backfield ... Has experience in the system.

2007: Came on strong during the second half of his 2007 sophomore season and made his collegiate debut, appearing in 5 of the Cougars' final 6 games ... Rushed for 51 yards on 18 carries ... Had 6 carries in each of the Cougars' final 2 games ... Had a season-best 20-yard run.

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.

YEAR   G-GS   C   Yds   Avg   TD   LG  
2006            did not play             
2007   5-0   18   51    2.8   0    20

THIS YEAR: A leader on the Cougar defense, redshirt junior Greg Neale is expected to be an impact player for a re-tooled defense ... Noted for his strength and tenacity ... Looking for a breakout season.

2007: Played in 8 of the Cougars' 11 games as a 2007 sophomore ... Started the season-opener vs. MidAmerica Nazarene ... Registered 9 tackles (2 solo) ... Also played on special teams.

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
2007   8-1      2    7      9      0    0
       11-1     2    10     12     0    0

THIS YEAR: Freshman Steven Ocampo returns to football after taking off the 2007 season ... Showed promise during spring drills ... Fundamentally sound and smart about the game.

2007: Attended classes at Azusa Pacific but did not join the football program until the spring.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 4-sport participant at Aquinas High in San Bernardino, Calif. ... Earned 3 varsity letters in football playing for former Cougar standout linebacker Josh Henderson ... As a 2006 senior, tallied 57 tackles (27 solo) for the 9-4 Falcons, who advanced to the CIF semifinals ... Was a key contributor on Falcons' 2005 CIF championships team ... Lettered 4 years in varsity baseball (third base) for Aquinas ... Batted .297 in 24 games as a senior ... Also wrestled one season for Aquinas and played 2 seasons of soccer.

PERSONAL: Born Dec. 29, 1988, in La Palma, Calif. ... Parents are Juan (tax preparer) and Norma (accountant) Ocampo ... Has 2 brothers (Oscar, Juan) ... Majoring in applied health ... Would like to be a physical therapist.

THIS YEAR: The burly David Ofahulu is a quality lineman with a lot of experience ... Is quite strong ... Will push for starting duties along the front and also give the Cougars great depth.

2007: In his first season as a Cougar, appeared in 8 of the 11 games, starting 4 of the first 5 of the season.

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: A returning starter to the offensive line Robby Palacios is an impact lineman ... Quite imposing and very strong ... Rated a strong run blocker and a good athlete.

2007: Started all 11 games at left tackle during his 2007 redshirt freshman season at Azusa Pacific ... Was a key reason the Cougars surrendered just 10 quarterback sacks on the season.

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 during his senior campaign ... 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: Senior running back Alex Peltier returns for what he hopes will be a healthy and strong season ... Hard-nosed back who is both shifty and physical in his style ... Could produce big numbers and prove to be a vital cog in the Cougar attack ... Needs just 174 more yards to move on to Azusa Pacific's top ten all-time rushing chart.

2007: Returned to football after missing a season with an injury and was the Cougars' top rusher during his 2007 junior season, appearing in 10 of the Cougars' 11 games and starting 3 ... Rushed for a team-high 486 yards on 130 carries (3.7 avg.) with a team-best 3 rushing TDs ... Slowed by nagging injuries ... Rushed for a season-high 86 yards on 23 carries in a loss at Wisconsin-La Crosse ... Closed the campaign on a high note, rushing for 66 yards on 11 carries and scored the game’s opening TD on a 14-yard run in the Cougars' 31-20 victory at Webber International (Fla.).

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 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                 
2007   10-3  130  486   3.7   3    14   12   133   11.1  1    35
Career 30-10 341  1374  4.0   14   31   37   327   8.8   3    35

THIS YEAR: Redshirt freshman Barrett Pepe is looking for his first live college action ... Battling for playing time among the Cougar backers.

2007: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of 8-man football for head coach Shane Sander at North County Christian High in Atascadero, Calif. ... As a 2006 senior was a 2-way All-Coast Valley pick, earning first team honors on defense as a linebacker and second-team recognition on offense as a fullback ... Tallied 75 tackles (46 solo) in 8 games, while registering a career single-game high of 15 take downs in a 34-30 victory over Maricopa High ... Also lettered in baseball (batted. 333 in an injury-shortened senior season) and was named the school’s 2005-06 athlete of the year ... Played with current Cougar John Thompson.

PERSONAL: Born Aug. 1, 1989, in Glendale, Calif. ... Parents are Alan (housing director) and Patricia Pepe ... Has 2 sisters (Arielle, Michelle) ... His father played baseball at Penn State ... Majoring in business ... Earned eagle scout status in the Boy Scouts of America program.

THIS YEAR: A good-looking running back, true freshman Oliver Petty is a pleasant surprise and make work his way into a key role as the season unfolds ... Combined strength in speed that allows him to break tackles and run away from defenders.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 seasons of varsity football for head coach Peter Duffy at local power Rancho Verde High in Moreno Valley, Calif. ... Was a 2-time All-Inland Valley League second-team selection ... As a 2007 senior running back, rushed for 171 yards on just 4 carries in a 34-0 victory over Tustin High, scoring a pair of TDs on runs 96 and 71 yards ... As a 2006 junior rushed for 882 yards and averaged 110.3 rushing yards per game for the 9-3 Mustangs ... Led the Mustangs to a pair of league titles.

PERSONAL: Born April 15, 1990, in Pomona, Calif. ... Parents are Oliver Petty and Rochelle Rodgers ... Has 4 brothers (Jay, Kenneth, Mike, Deaudre) and 4 sisters (Chereace, Tiereace, Offeace, Launesha) ... Has not declared a major.

THIS YEAR: The hard-hitting and athletic Dez Revish is a key player in a revamped Cougar defense ... Has good speed and is very strong.

2007: Sat out the 2007 season at Azusa Pacific while completing NAIA eligibility requirements.

JUNIOR COLLEGE: Played 2 seasons at state power College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, Calif. ... Was a key member of a Cavalier secondary that helped lead COC to a combined 25-1 record and the 2004 state championship ... 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 OrDedrick Jerdez Revish April 3, 1985, in Shreveport, La. ... Majoring in pre-law.

THIS YEAR: A hard-working player, redshirt freshman Phillip Sacco is looking to crack the Cougar 2-deep and perhaps see some time on special teams … Noted for his positive demeanor.

2007: Redshirted his first season at Azusa Pacific, attending classes while working out with the team.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 2-way standout for former Cougar great Doug Barnett at Bakersfield (Calif.) Christian High … Played both wide receiver and defensive back … As a 2006 senior, had 15 tackles, 5 receptions for 106 yards with 1 TD and rushed the ball once for 18 yards for the 4-6 Eagles … As a 2005 junior, tallied 18 tackles (15 solo), which included 3 quarterback sacks for the 3-7 Eagles … Named most inspirational player both seasons … Also lettered 2 years in wrestling and 2 in track & field (sprints) … Served as ASB president.

PERSONAL: Born June 2, 1988, in Bakersfield, Calif. … Parents are Philip (business owner) and Marla Sacco … Enjoys surging, hunting and fishing … Has traveled to Europe, Africa, Brazil, Australia, Mexico and Argentina.

THIS YEAR: One of a select few true freshmen likely to see action this year, Hayden Shaw is an impressive newcomer with great fundamentals … Has been well-coached and understands the game … Has a promising future ahead of him.

HIGH SCHOOL: Was a 4-year letterman at state power Orange (Calif.) Lutheran High, playing for head coach Jim Kunau … Played on 2 CIF championship teams, the 2004 (13-0) and 2006 (14-1) squads … As a 2007 senior was named All-Orange County and All-Trinity League after tallying 70 tackles (44 solo) for the 11-2 Lancers who advanced to the CIF semifinals … As a 2006 junior, scored 5 touchdowns and registered a pair of interceptions.

PERSONAL: Born Oct. 20, 1981, in Yorba Linda, Calif. … Parents are Dave Shaw (business owner) and Sue F