Deon Toliver is ready for the new era of Dominguez football

Coming off of a disappointing 2-8 season, some might say the Dominguez High football team is in a dubious state. However, new coach Deon Toliver sees the challenge and is ready for it.

“It’s a challenge just getting the guys to show up to practice,” Toliver said. “Getting the structure of our team implemented has been a struggle.”

One thing that Dons fans have in their favor is that during Toliver’s previous head coaching stops at Gardena and Leuzinger, he took both teams to the playoffs in his first year.

“I think we can get that done,” he said. “So far, everywhere I have been, I been able to come off a bad record and make it happen and make the playoffs.”

The Dons retu two key pieces from last year’s team in junior quarterback Sean Harlston — five passing and six rushing touchdowns last year — and senior running back Randy Manley (957 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns). However, the arrival of senior quarterback Dillon Mendoza from Carson allows Harlston, one of the teams best athletes, to play multiple positions.

“We are going to try and use him all around the field,” Toliver said. “Defensive back, wide receiver, and quarterback, he will play all three.”

The Dons open the season at Tustin on Aug. 25.

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