Local players make impact at all-conference game

Five members of the Huntington Beach Dolphins made their presence felt

at last weekend’s AFL-NFL All-Conference football game, each making a

contribution in helping the AFL to a 28-0 victory in Orange.

John Martinez, working at tackle, Ryan Lopez, roving at cornerback,

and Anthony McLawyer, who played linebacker, helped the AFL defense shut

down the NFL offense. Offensively, Charlie Vallas dominated along the

line, opening holes for the AFL rushing attack, which included the

Dolphins’ Joe Menichiello, who played quarterback and threw a 20-yard

touchdown pass.

Martinez, Lopez, McLawyer, Vallas and Menichiello played their final

game at the youth football level. Next fall, the five players will move

on to the high school ranks.