PLAYER OF THE WEEK : Fann Makes Believer of Crenshaw on 191 Yards Rushing

After three games, people were still skeptical of running back Albert Fann and the Cleveland High football team.

Fann had rushed for 412 yards and the Cavaliers were 3-0. But the 4-A team had recorded those numbers against 3-A opponents. Go down to Crenshaw for a real test, the doubters said.

Cleveland returned Friday from Crenshaw, a previously unbeaten Pacific League team, with a 20-7 win. And Fann came back with 191 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries.

“We proved we can beat an inner-city team,” Fann said. “We gained the confidence that we can beat anybody we play.”

Fann, who leads Valley-area City Section players with 603 yards rushing, combines the power generated by a 6-2, 205-pound frame with outstanding speed.

“I’m not a juker,” he said. “I try to avoid getting hit, but if there isn’t room I can run you down.”

Fann, who also plays on the basketball team, is a leader as well as offensive workhorse, Coach Steve Landress said. “Guys this age look to one or two guys for leadership,” he said. “This team looks to Albert.”