Tyler Kovalcin had a senior season to remember for Yorba Linda High School
YORBA LINDA, Calif. 鈥� Tyler Kovalcin played his final game of high school football for the Yorba Linda Mustangs in early November.
Yorba Linda鈥檚 win streak was abruptly ended by a strong Bishop Amat Lancers team (ranked 17th in California). The clock slowly and painfully ticked to zero with 44-21 illuminated on the scoreboard. It was a heartbreaking playoff defeat for Kovalcin and the Mustangs in a crowded stadium in La Puente, California.
However, the failure to capitalize on their momentum and offensive talent does not negate the incredible season that No. 11 had put together up until that point. With Kovalcin playing wide receiver and running back, the Mustangs were dominant in the regular season and led the Crestview League rankings. The Mustangs ended the season ranked 36th in California with a 10-1 record 鈥� ten regular-season wins and one playoff loss.
In early September, Kovalcin and the Mustangs鈥� quarterback Reyn Beal were dynamic and in sync during the third game of the season against the Orange High School Panthers. The senior-junior connection was unstoppable. Kovalcin scored two touchdowns, had 14 carries and ran for 112 yards to edge the Panthers.
A visibly excited and out-of-breath Kovalcin spoke with a reporter after the game.
鈥淭his is my senior year, I played my heart out,” he . “This was the best game and I couldn鈥檛 have asked for a better team; better coaches. I thank god every day and I love the position I鈥檓 in. I couldn鈥檛 be more blessed.鈥�
His stellar running and awareness against Orange foreshadowed his passion-fueled energy and dominance seen throughout every game for the rest of the season.
At 5-foot-10 and 175 pounds, the senior was one of the fastest players on the field during any given play. Kovalcin had touchdowns in eight of ten regular-season games, scoring multiple on several occasions. Kovalcin ended the season with 16 touchdowns, 825 yards rushing, and 125 carries. There are several highlight tapes on Maxpreps.com that showcase Kovalcin鈥檚 ability to find gaps in the defense and change direction on a dime. The site also boasts a highlight of him scoring an 88-yard kickoff return.
With a memorable senior season behind him, Kovalcin will be shifting his focus toward earning a spot on a college team.
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