Simulating game speed at California's practices is not that hard if Donte Valentino is around. Trying to get him to play at practice speed is where the challenge lies.

"We got to turn him down sometimes. He likes to get physical and we don't want to hurt anyone," California coach Joe Kuhns said.

You would expect no less from a player that prefers playing defense even after his triple threat kind of season on offense he had last year as a junior. Lining up mostly at quarterback, Valentino combined for more than 1,600 yards of total offense and 18 total touchdowns, with four coming through the air.

Still, he prefers lining up on the other side of the ball.

"I like to play defense more. I like hitting people and making big plays on defense. It seems like it gets everyone motivated when you do big things on defense," Valentino said.

Matching his game preference, he enjoys the practice on the defensive side of the ball just as much.

"I just like going full speed but I don't try to hurt my teammates," Valentino said.

"I get most intense when on defensive practice when we go individual with the d-back drills."

He has yet to miss the playoffs in his three years at California and last season led the Trojans to a share of the Tri-County South conference title. This season he can stop a few more streaks going against California. Before his freshman year, California had not won a conference title since 1997 or advanced beyond the first round of the playoffs since 1986. They have advanced to the quarterfinals the last two years.

California has not won a WPIAL title since 1949.

His coach, himself and most opposing players all agree his biggest strength is his speed.

"It's got to be his quickness. He can be at full speed on his first step," Kuhns said.

It was evident that Valentino was going to be a special player for California when he rushed for over 800 yards in his freshman season. The 5-8 165-pound Valentino has spent time in the weight room and has his bench press up to about 350 pounds.

"He isn't small anymore, he is going to hold up as good as anyone," Kuhns said.

California lost many components of last season's team that went 7-4 and advanced to the quarterfinals.

They are going to rely a lot on Valentino but that may open up the offense for other players most notable Brandon Rossi a standout at running back. Valentino and Rossi connected on a 73-yard touchdown reception in California's last game, a 20-12 loss in the quarterfinals against eventual champion Clairton.

"They are going to expect me and Brandon to lead the team. I think its great to have him, I played with him my whole life," Valentino said.

"For them to sell out and try to stop me that's fine. That's when Rossi comes in and makes plays, then they wont key on me as much."

Kuhns agrees saying, "There is no question that when other teams come in their focus is on Dante and that is where Brandon and other players will start benefiting."

A two sport star, Valentino helped lead the California basketball team to the WPIAL boys Class-A championship this past March and a 24-4 record.