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Lopez to play in prep all-star games
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For the second straight year, a player from Central Valley High School's varsity football team will participate in both the Lions and Chowchilla Rotary prep all-star games.

Former Hawk Vince Lopez (class of 2010) found out several weeks ago when CV head coach Tim Garcia contacted him via phone.

"I feel very fortunate to get in," said Lopez, who will showcase his abilities on offense (running back), defense (cornerback) and special teams (returner). "I get to play with all the best players. It's going to mean a lot."

The 37th Lions All-Star Football Classic will kick off at the University of the Pacific this Saturday at 7 p.m.

Lopez will suit up for the South squad. He'll team up with talent from Modesto High, Grace Davis, Enochs, Modesto Christian, Central Catholic, Hughson, Pitman, Patterson, Los Banos, Atwater, Buhach Colony, Merced, Oakdale and Mariposa.

Vince and his teammates practiced and stayed in dorms at Cal State Stanislaus the week leading up to the game. Lopez roomed with Hughson's Justin Aguilar (linebacker) and Merced's Taj Brown (defensive lineman).

The 25th Rotary All-Star Game will be hosted by Chowchilla High School on Friday, June 25 at 7:45 p.m.

Lopez and Central Valley linebacker Alex Casas will both play for the North team.

Vince wants to contribute in all phases during both games.

"It's going to be exciting to see what happens," he said. "I'm going to try to perform as best as I can. I love competing."

Trevor Mew, a 2009 Central Valley graduate, had a memorable ending to his prep football career last summer. He passed for 356 yards and five touchdowns while going 2-0 as a starter at quarterback during the Lions and Rotary all-star contests.

"He represented good for our school and I want to do the same," Lopez said. "If I can open some eyes, that will help me."

Vince will play college football at a four-year school or junior college this fall.

"I'm leaning towards University of Mary (North Dakota), but it's still up in the air," he said.

Lopez rushed for 969 yards and eight touchdown during his final season with Central Valley. He intercepted six passes, returning one 38 yards for a TD. Vince also had an 82-yard kickoff return score.

Casas shared co-captain duties with Lopez.