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Compton Unified Football Preview: Dominguez and Centennial


Media Release

The Compton Unified high school football season kicks off this week. In a cross-city showdown for local bragging rights, Dominguez High School visits Centennial High School on Friday, August 18 at 5:00pm. That same evening, Compton High School’s squad travels to Dymally for its season opener.

Previewing the cross-city matchup, both Centennial and Dominguez’s coaches took time out of practice this week to break down their season, highlight both offensive and defensive standouts, and discuss their team’s goals.

Glenn Gates

Centennial High School Coach Glenn Gates

The Centennial Apaches are coached by Glenn Gates, who’s entering his third season. His goal for the team is to set a new standard. “We want to have a level of consistency with our play, and we've been going in the right direction.”

He says the team’s strengths are their athleticism and being a close-knit team. “This is the closest team I've had since we've been here. They really work hard and are eager to learn.”

Offensive standouts include Brian Carson, Davion Lloyd, center Randy Bailey, and young quarterback Joshua Crathers. On defense, Coach Gates says watch for Hysion Knowles, Darius Fisher, and Davion Lloyd.

For the season goals, Coach Gates is just looking to this Friday to start: “We don't really have a goal. We just play one game at a time. The kids are really excited to see what we can do with this game.”

As for facing cross-town team Dominguez, he says: “This one is a win we want. It’s important for us. Our coaches and students are working really, really hard. This is one of the most important games this year. It’s about really setting a new standard here.”

Across town, Dominguez Coach Deon Toliver, who’s been leading the team for six years, has a lofty goal for the Dons in 2023: “Our goal is to win a championship.”

Deon Toliver

Dominguez High School Football Coach Deon Toliver

He says the team strength is the defense, with a strong secondary and a nice linebacker crew that he believes will be dominant on the field.

Some of the key defensive players are Kaleb McCutcheon, Tim Tuiagamoa, and Kaelin Manning. “Those guys are going to be a force to be reckoned with at the linebacker and safety positions.”

On offense, he’s looking to returning quarterback Mikaele Fitu Ahkui to play well, along with Skyedann Bobo-Gunther and Jordan Torillo.

Overall, he’s looking for a winning season and hopes the Dons can go 10-0, but the more wins the better.

Dons Practice Game

Touchdown at a Dominguez practice game.