Jess Norton arrived dressed for the occasion. Simi Valley High's best offensive lineman was garbed in casual gear, of course, as he prepared to enter the team's locker room prior to practice Tuesday.

Brice Hawkins has uncovered a potent answer to any perceived deficiencies on the football field. "I'm not the biggest, fastest, strongest guy out there," says Simi Valley High's junior running back.

The Simi Valley football team is always looking to take the next step. The Pioneers have steadily built up their program since head coach Jim Benkert took over in 2018 with milestones like joining the ...