This League Believes Still in Golden Rule

R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to the Golden League.

In an era of trash talking and poor sportsmanship, the Antelope Valley-based league continues to march to a different beat.

Several old-school coaches teach players to respect opponents, officials . . . even reporters.

No ifs, ands or head butts. Helmets are removed and post-game talks are delayed while opponents’ alma maters are played. Questions are answered with “Yes, sir” and “No, sir.”

“In the old days, if the players didn’t respond, ‘Yes, sir, no, sir,’ I would put a knot in their head,” said veteran Coach Brent Newcomb of Antelope Valley. “Times have changed a bit, but I still think we’re trying to give these kids an education so they can go out and be productive members of society.”

He isn’t alone.

“That level of courtesy and respect is a goal of every coach in this league,” said Coach Jim Bauer of Littlerock.

Last season, after Littlerock was routed, 56-20, by Notre Dame in the playoffs, Bauer said he received a letter from a Notre Dame booster, commending his team on its character and class.

The practice builds good habits for the future, Newcomb said.

“If someday you get stopped by a highway patrolman, you better respond, ‘Yes, sir, no, sir.’ ”

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Antelope Valley (3-1) had a streak of 10 consecutive shutout quarters broken last week against Barstow.

Two-way lineman Michael Graves, who weighs 300 pounds, has been a key force for the defense, as have sophomore linebackers Marcus Huerta and Frank Morin.

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John Ford of Littlerock has been slowed by injuries since beginning the season with a 262-yard, six-touchdown game.

His carries have been limited in the Lobos’ last three games, but is expected to see more playing time Friday against Lynwood.