Quarterback Reuben Rodriguez zipped a long touchdown pass to all-purpose player Moses Ghiorso.

Tight end Franky Ramirez raced upfield after making a short reception.

Defensive backs Robert Nieto and Estevan Barragan intercepted passes.

Returning and prospective players of Central Valley High School's football program competed against Ripon, Modesto Christian and Grace Davis during Wednesday's 7-on-7 passing showdown at Stouffer Field.

"We're a work in progress," said Scott Edwards, second-year head coach of the Hawks.

Rodriguez has emerged as Central Valley's projected starting QB for the upcoming season.

Reuben suffered a season-ending leg injury during the Hawks' opening Western Athletic Conference game against Pacheco his junior year.

Rodriguez broke his left ankle while playing defense.

"Reuben's a smart athlete," Edwards said. "He understands what I want him to do and he's making good decisions."

Ghiorso will be counted upon heavily this fall.

The third-year varsity player earned first-team all-Western Athletic Conference honors for his outstanding play at running back and cornerback as a junior.

Moses was also voted the league's Most Outstanding Special Teams Player.

Ghiorso had 822 all-purpose yards and nine touchdowns.

He ranked second in the WAC in rushing TDs (7) and fourth in rushing yards (401).

He hauled in 10 passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns.

He totaled 177 yards on seven kickoff returns.

Ghiorso ranked second in the WAC in interceptions (2).

"There's a little more sense of urgency for him because it's his last year," Edwards said.

Central Valley, Ripon, Modesto Christian and Grace Davis have faced off a handful of times during 7-on-7 passing scrimmages this summer.

Ripon hosted last week.

"I'm not thrilled with our attendance," Edwards said. "When we're healthy and all there, it's been clicking pretty good."

Central Valley players train on campus, Tuesday through Thursday. The first hour (3-4 p.m.) is dedicated to lifting weights. The final two hours (4-6 p.m.) are dedicated to technique, and offense and defense.

"We kind of run it like a fall practice," Edwards said.

Central Valley compiled a 5-5 overall record and tied for fourth place with crosstown-rival Ceres High (3-7, 2-4) in the WAC standings last fall.

The Bulldogs played the role of spoiler with a 24-7 victory over the Hawks on the final day of the regular season.

Ceres High prevented Central Valley from securing its second straight playoff berth. The Bulldogs also snapped a seven-year losing streak against the Hawks.

"We have the pieces to have success," Edwards said. "We just have to meld them together."