High spirits at Blue & White Game

CORONA DEL MAR — Most high school football coaches will not ask reporters for advice, let alone allow them to call plays on offense.

Coach Scott Meyer is running a different type of program at Corona del Mar High.

The last spring practice at CdM ran smoothly Thursday, even when Meyer gave two reporters the chance to play coach. For some odd reason, one reporter wanted to run the same play on every first down.

The defense caught on during the Blue & White scrimmage. It was now Meyer’s turn to play reporter.

“Some of those first-down calls were a little questionable,” Meyer said with a smile. “I’m not sure we made those [Thursday], but other than that I thought it went well.”

Meyer has had four weeks, 18 practices in all, to work with his new team. The former assistant at Long Beach Wilson liked what he saw before CdM wrapped up spring ball.

The Sea Kings looked sharp and like they will continue to be competitive after Jason Hitchens stepped down.

Next season, the Sea Kings will not be as senior heavy as they were last season. The experience helped the Sea Kings claim the Pacific Coast League title, their first outright league title since 1988. They went on to reach the semifinals of the CIF Southern Section Southern Division playoffs for the second time in three seasons under Hitchens.

As for whether CdM can duplicate that kind of success, it is still early.

“We haven’t put the pads on yet,” said Kevin Hettig, the offensive coordinator. “We’re excited about this group.”

There is a lot to be thrilled about at CdM, especially at the skill positions.

Erik Fisher returns at running back for his senior year. Kai Wilson, a flashy runner, will get looks in the backfield after he spent his sophomore season on junior varsity.

The speedy Cole Cottrell plans to return kicks and punts, play cornerback and wide receiver as a senior. You might see Aaron White at fullback next year.

White got a couple of carries during the scrimmage. The reporter probably should not have called for a toss with White, but he did.

Meyer just grinned when the play went for no gain.