Security Under Review in Wake of Shooting

Dean Crowley, commissioner of the Southern Section, said Wednesday that the organization is reviewing the circumstances surrounding a shooting that occurred after the Division I championship game between Long Beach Poly and Santa Ana Mater Dei last Saturday at Edison Field in Anaheim.

Stephen Bodnar, a 1994 graduate of Mater Dei, was shot in the arm during a fracas involving dozens of spectators near Gate 4 of the stadium.

Police have no suspects in the incident.

Mater Dei won the game, 33-26, before a crowd of 19,056.

“There’s never been an incident like this at a playoff or championship game,” Crowley said. “We’re still looking into it. We’ll be meeting with people at Anaheim regarding security and talk to both schools.

“We feel that our athletic events are as safe as they can be. If we have to look at some new wrinkles in security, we will.”

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Handshakes were offered by former Heisman Trophy winners. Kansas State quarterback Michael Bishop asked for his autograph.

It all was a bit overwhelming for Anthony White, a Rosemead High senior who was presented with the High School Heisman Award last Friday at New York’s Downtown Athletic Club.

The national award, presented to one girl and one boy, is presented by Wendy’s International Inc. and the National Assn. of Secondary School Principals to recognize outstanding achievement in athletics, academics and community service.

White, a nephew of Heisman Trophy winner Charles White, was one of the six boys’ finalists who were flown to New York for the Heisman Trophy festivities.

White, 6 feet and 190 pounds, played tailback and safety for Rosemead. He is active in the Rosemead Rebels Junior All-American football program, works with the Boys and Girls Club of Rosemead and also volunteers at soup kitchens and churches.

“I want to be a role model for my two little brothers,” White said. “I want them to see me trying to be the best person possible.”