With the 2016 football season in the books, the coaches met up for the annual Valley Oak League honors selection. This meeting took place prior to the Mustangs winning the 2016 CIF Division 3A State Bowl.

The Mustangs were strongly represented in the voting for both first and second team honors. For 17 years, head coach Trent Merzon has been the main man on the sidelines for Oakdale and was named VOL Co-Coach of the Year along with Manteca’s Eric Reis. Running backs Will Semone and Cameron Cherry both took home first team honors for the position.

Making lanes for the backs this year were the talented offensive linemen. Being recognized for their hard work were Nico Sarale, Brandon Vierra and Jacob Tietjen as the trio were selected to First Team All VOL.

Oakdale’s defense was hard hitting and fierce throughout the season and members of the team were recognized by their peers. Inside linebacker Zac Campbell took home First Team honors in his first year at varsity level. The hero of the NorCal Bowl, Jace Krick, was named to the First Team All VOL as an outside linebacker. Michael Everett and Levi Ichord also took first team honors for defensive lineman. Two-way player Bronson Harman was recognized for his defensive abilities with First Team honors as a safety/defensive back.

Junior Matt Kjeldgaard was the lone Mustang to take home Second Team All VOL recognition for his physical play on the defensive line. Honorable mention went to Jacob Peterson, Zac Thomas, Ty Fuentes, Cullen Bearden and Josh Jacobson.