Ponciano Now Valley Assistant

Ron Ponciano, former Cal State Northridge football coach, has been hired by Valley College as a part-time assistant coach.

Ponciano served as defensive coordinator last season at McPherson State College in Kansas, an NAIA school. The team went 7-3 and enjoyed its best season in 40 years.

“It was a special time,” Ponciano said.

Ponciano, who was fired at Northridge last July after an internal investigation into alleged NCAA rules violations, said he wanted to return to the San Fernando Valley and resume his life.

“I can’t let them take me away from a place I dearly love,” he said.

VOLLEYBALL

Outside hitter Krystal McFarland of Buena High has accepted a scholarship to UCLA.

McFarland planned to walk on to the women’s team, but was offered a scholarship. She will play setter for the Bruins.

SOCCER

Jenna Wirtz, a three-time All-Marmonte League midfielder for Westlake High, has committed to the Washington State women’s team.

WRESTLING

Nine wrestlers from Moorpark College, No. 1 in the state, are participating in the state championships today and Saturday at Skyline College in San Bruno.

Saul Lucatero at 149 pounds and Chris Gonzalez at 184 of the Raiders are top-ranked in the state in their divisions.

Also competing for Moorpark are Yonus Woldu (133 pounds), Juan Roman (141), Eddie Lucatero (157), Arsen Aleksanyan (165), Stuart Young (174), Adam Benshea (197) and Chris Jansen (heavyweight).

Moorpark won state titles in 1990, 1991 and 1997.