2008 Woodie Awards
Mallas to the Rescue
Former L.A. Mission coach brings success and unmatched work ethic to Valley.
Sam Hahn
Issue date: 3/2/05 Section: Sports
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Leaving a very good Eagle team that finished 22-13 in 2004, Mallas was brought in to help the Monarchs that had a 5-98 record over the past three seasons, according to the Commission of Athletics website.
Anyone looking at Mallas' situation might view the move as quite a disadvantage.
"I think that the opportunity to come and have control over your own baseball field was a key factor for me coming to Valley," explained Mallas, whose Mission team played at El Cariso Park.
"Being able to play when we wanted, having control over who plays on our field and for how long was a tremendous plus for me," said Mallas.
Mallas won a state championship in his sophomore year at Rancho Santiago Community College in 1995 and continued his winning ways at Cal State Chico, where he won a state championship in 1997.
During his time at Rancho Santiago, Mallas considered becoming a full-time coach.
"Thinking about what I wanted to do with coaching, I realized that being out on the field every day in shorts seemed like a great occupation," said Mallas. "I also have so much love for the game of baseball and wanting to help players drove me to coach."
"My long-term goal is to get this team back on the map," said Mallas. "I want to make Valley one of the strongest baseball programs in the state."
Stating that a complete turnaround in just one season is very hard, Mallas' focus will be to put a competitive product on the field.
"Since Valley is a much bigger school and values athletics very highly, I want to be an example for my players and improve their work ethic," stated Mallas.
Mallas' optimism and intense work ethic has made believers out of his players as the Monarchs have already amassed a 1-0 conference and 6-4 overall record in the early stages of the season.
"We're actually winning this season," said sophomore pitcher Jorge Olmedo. "We're working together as a team and it's great."
"The work ethic that [Mallas] brings to the table is amazing," said sophomore outfielder D.J. Lewis, who transferred from the University of Arizona. "Everyone's coming to practice an hour early and that shows how much of an impact he has on this team."
"I personally came to Valley to follow coach," said sophomore pitcher Eddie Baeza. "He's doing a great job and I believe that he can get us in the playoffs this season."
