Katz, Santa Monica make points

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Ryan Katz and Santa Monica are off to a fast start this season.

Well, actually, Katz never slowed down after tearing up the summer-camp circuit to become the No. 16 quarterback prospect in the country and earn a scholarship to Oregon State.

The senior quarterback, who passed for 1,578 yards and 20 touchdowns last season, has led the Vikings (2-0) to impressive victories by completing 11 of 23 passes for 255 yards and two scores in a 46-21 decision over Hueneme on Sept. 7 and hitting on eight of 11 for passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns in a 35-0 shutout of Palisades last week.

He has not had a pass intercepted and has rushed for 73 yards in seven carries.

‘Ryan’s a real special kid on the high school football field,’ said Coach Zach Cuda, in his second season as the Vikings’ head coach after two years as an assistant. ‘He’s fun to watch, he makes good decisions. Everything about him is great.’

Especially his leadership, Cuda said.

‘Whatever it is about him, kids just kind of gravitate to him,’ he said.

Fans can get a look at what recruiters, and peers, see in Katz when the Vikings play host to Venice at 7 p.m. Friday at Santa Monica College.

Cuda said the Vikings have never beaten the Gondoliers in his four years at the school.

‘We’re excited about our start,’ he said. ‘I think we have a chance for a real good season.’

- Lauren Peterson