BOYS

Ty Russell

SCHOOL: Royal

SPORT: Soccer

YEAR: Senior

SEASON AT A GLANCE: Russell was a bulwark for the Highlanders (15-1-1), leading them to the Southern Section Division I title. An imposing 6 feet 3 and 220 pounds, Russell controls the penalty area like few other goalies. His timing, aggression and ability to read shooters reassured his teammates and impressed fourth-year Royal Coach Kevin Corley. “As far as the big games go, Ty’s the best goalie we’ve had at Royal,” Corley said. “He made some incredible close-range saves throughout the playoffs and he was brilliant in the final.”

WEEK AT A GLANCE: Russell cemented his status as one of the area’s top goalkeepers with a pair of outstanding playoff performances. He made 11 saves in Royal’s 2-1 victory over Redlands in overtime in the semifinals, then stopped 14 shots including a penalty kick in the championship game against Fountain Valley.