Andrew Hernandez, Erick Martinez and Isaiah Hidalgo all had productive debuts with Central Valley’s varsity football program last week.

Hernandez, Martinez and Hidalgo performed like veterans while leading the Hawks to a 35-0 shutout victory over the Ceres High Bulldogs during the 13th installment of the Ceres Classic rivalry game.

Andrew completed 14 of 15 passes for 132 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions at quarterback.

He rushed for 22 yards on three carries.

“He made correct reads and decisions,” Central Valley head coach Scott Edwards said. “He had a great opening night.”

“I’m really proud of him,” Hawks’ senior lineman Vince Bocanegra said. “He didn’t surprise me. I see his confidence in practice.”

“He knew what he was doing,” Bulldogs’ senior linebacker Felipe Martinez said. “He was really consistent.”

Martinez, a 6-foot-3 junior, hauled in TD passes of 9 and 21 yards.

“He really surprised and impressed me,” Bocanegra said.

Erick celebrated and danced on the sidelines with teammates in the first quarter after hauling in a 9-yard TD pass from Hernandez.

Hernandez connected with Martinez on a 21-yard scoring play in the second quarter.

Erick outjumped two defenders and one of his own teammates in the left corner of the end zone.

“He has some traits that are desirable,” Edwards said. “He’s big and athletic. He knows how to use his body. He understands the game. He’s starting to do some high-level stuff. It’s fun to watch.”

 A newcomer to the sport at the junior-varsity level a year ago, Martinez also plays soccer and volleyball.

“Coming into the season, I didn’t know a lot about Erick,” Bocanegra said. “I saw a lot of potential in him at practice.”

“He brings passion and energy,” Edwards said. “He wants to do well. He respects and loves his teammates.”

Just a sophomore, Hidalgo carried the ball seven times for 111 yards and two touchdowns. 

Isaiah caught four passes for 35 yards.

“He showed he’s ready for varsity football,” Edwards said. “This level is not too big or fast for him. But he still has some things to improve on.”

“I could have done better,” Hidalgo said. “I could have put more effort into plays.”

Isaiah scored on runs of 51 and 10 yards in the third quarter.

“I was waiting all game for my first touchdown,” Hidalgo said. “It was a relief. It took a lot of weight off my shoulders. My teammates made it a better experience for me. They cheered for me. They were so supportive.”

“I expect a lot out of Isaiah,” Bocanegra said. “He does have star potential.”

“He’s going to be a great running back,” Ceres High senior linebacker Felipe Martinez said. “He’s quick, shifty and efficient. He has so much room to grow. But he already has a lot under his belt skill-wise.”