HIGH SCHOOL NOTEBOOK

Chaminade is 2-2 despite its best player, receiver Eric Zdenek, playing in only seven quarters because of headaches resulting from a concussion.

Zdenek is expected to miss his second consecutive game Friday night at Temple City.

Underclassmen have been making major contributions for the Eagles, including junior defensive back Pat O’Connor, junior linebacker Russell Kovner, junior lineman Luis Soto and sophomore tight end Jesse Taylor.

“We’re growing up,” Coach Ed Croson said.

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Could this be the season of redemption for kickers?

Last season, Garret Marxen of Alemany missed an extra point that cost his team in a 14-13 loss to Notre Dame. Last week, Marxen kicked a field goal and three extra points to help beat the Knights, 24-21.

Last season, Kirk Bardin of Hart missed a last-second field goal because of a bad snap in a 23-22 loss to Loyola. On Friday, Bardin will get a second chance against the Cubs.

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Notre Dame’s struggling offense will receive a boost this week with the return of tight end Chris Shibel, who missed the Alemany game because of a sprained knee. Shibel is one of the Knights’ best blockers and should help improve the rushing attack.

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Two highly regarded players for St. Bonaventure (4-0) are living up to expectations.

Offensive tackle Adrian Ayala, a 6-6, 300-pound senior, has been “dominating” players, Coach Jon Mack said.

“He is crushing people,” Mack said. “I wouldn’t want to face him.”

Also playing well is defensive end Tucker Bennett, who has forced three fumbles and recorded nine sacks.

St. Bonaventure travels to Studio City on Saturday for a nonleague game against Harvard-Westlake.

Mack, a former assistant at Notre Dame and Alemany, doesn’t need directions to the Valley.

“My parents still live there,” he said.