Richards Has Instituted a New Doctrine at Monroe

Missing a week of practice is unacceptable to Chris Richards, the first-year coach at Monroe. Even for a senior quarterback with a wealth of experience.

Diego Barba, who started 22 games in 1998 and ‘97, won’t play tonight when the Vikings try to end Sylmar’s league winning streak at 67.

Barba has been at odds with Richards since transferring to Sylmar after last season. He transferred back to Monroe during the summer, but by then, Steve Beltran had taken over at quarterback.

By his actions, Richards, a former San Fernando High and California running back, has sent an unmistakable message: Commitment counts.

Barba played sparingly but effectively in the first four games this season, completing seven of 12 passes for 162 yards. However, he missed the entire week of practice leading into the Vikings’ game against North Hollywood and has not been welcome since.

“I wish it could have worked out,” Richards said. “Diego is a young man in turmoil. The other kids have worked hard, not only during the season but last summer.

“It was important that I stand by my word and show commitment to the guys who showed commitment to the program. We are better off without that controversy.”

Although Beltran has struggled, completing only 12 of 42 passes for 214 yards, Richards believes his future is bright.

“He never played quarterback in his life before this season,” Richards said. “I’ll send him to a quarterback camp next summer and he’ll keep improving. He’s got a strong mind and a strong arm.”

*

El Camino Real (3-2) will be fortified by two players who were academically ineligible, but neither is expected to make an impact tonight in a West Valley League opener against Taft.

“They haven’t practiced,” said Jonathan Graham, the Conquistadors’ quarterback. “We have no secret weapons.”

The weapons they have should be enough to compete with the Toreadors (1-4), who are defending City champions but have defeated only Kennedy.

Graham and his twin, Justin, have scored all seven of El Camino Real’s rushing touchdowns and Jonathan has passed for six scores and has not had a pass intercepted.

The strength of the team might be the offensive line, led by Eric Hultin, Mark Munoz, Shaheen Jahangard and Manuel Gonzalez. All four also start on defense.

“We have a big line,” Graham said. “I think we can take it to [Taft].”