Football: Sylmar has high hopes moving to Division I

Of the 78 head football coaches in the City Section, the first one to show up to Saturday’s mandatory meeting of coaches at Garfield High was Sylmar’s John Brazil. That’s an indication of how excited he is for the season ahead.

For several years, the Spartans have played freshmen and sophomores at the varsity level, hoping the early experience would pay off. If that’s the case, this will be the season.

“The boys have been working really hard,” Brazil said.

Sylmar is moving to Division I after losing to Hamilton in last year’s Division II final. Division I should be much stronger with the arrival of the Spartans, Hamilton, South Gate and San Fernando, among others.

Four-year starter Clarence Williams is the player to watch at quarterback. “As he goes, we go,” Brazil said.

There’s good skill-position players with running back Marcus Gandy, receiver Andrew Simpson and defensive back Malik Martin.

Sylmar will get tested in its season opener on Aug. 28 at home against Crespi.

The Spartans’ big Valley Mission League game is Sept. 25 against San Fernando at Sylmar.

Practice begins on Monday for City Section teams with conditioning drills during the opening week.

Twitter:@LATSondheimer