The Riverside Press-Enterprise
Centennial's Helton ready to lead
Senior lineman needed to step into some big shoes for the Huskies
CORONA >> Wade Helton had a quick answer when asked what he enjoys most about being an offensive lineman.
“Just the physicality of it all,” Helton said. “It’s fun getting to go out there and hit somebody every play.”
Helton is a 6-foot-5, 280-pound junior tackle on the Centennial football team. He filled in at multiple spots on the offensive line during the Covid-shortened 2021 spring season and earned a starting spot as a sophomore. One of the most experienced members on the line, he is expected to assume a larger leadership role this year.
“A.J. Vaipulu was such a great leader for the offensive line for many years, so it is going to be important to find someone to take over that spot,” Centennial coach Matt Logan said. “Wade has all the physical elements to be that guy. He is someone who definitely can lead by example, and we hope he can be a vocal leader, as well.”
Logan said Helton made the occasional mistake as a freshman while learning the system, but effort was never an issue.
“He went after anybody he was lined up against,” Logan said. “Wade is never going to back down from anybody.”
Helton showed noticeable growth his sophomore season and helped Centennial to an 11-1 record and the program’s 15th consecutive appearance in a CIF Southern Section semifinal game. Helton is aware of the lineage of great offensive linemen Centennial has produced over the years and the responsibility that comes with playing the position.
“There are always big shoes to fill here, and you never want to let anyone down,” Helton said. “We have a great group of coaches who get you prepared to do your job. I love being able to be a part of that tradition.”
There will be two Heltons on the offensive line for the Huskies again this season. Wade’s twin brother, Brent, will be Centennial’s starting center after starting at guard last season.
“He’s a great offensive lineman,” Wade said about Brent, “and it’s always fun to play alongside your brother.”
Although they are twins, Logan said the brothers have clear and distinct personalities on the field.
“Brent has a thicker body and is a little more reserved than his brother,” Logan said. “It has been great to watch them interact these past few years. I’m excited to watch them get even better over the next two years.”
Centennial once again is expected to be among the top teams in the state and the nation this season. The Huskies open the season as the No. 9 team in the Maxpreps. com national rankings. Centennial has a challenging slate of opponents, including nonleague contests against Cathedral Catholic (Aug. 26) and Mater Dei (Sept. 2).
The Huskies also are part of the new Big West Conference, a mashup of teams from the Big VIII and Southwestern leagues. Centennial is in the upper half of the conference along with Norco, Roosevelt, Vista Murrieta, Murrieta Valley and Chaparral.
“I think we’re psyched about the schedule and having a chance to show everyone what we can do,” Helton said.
10MORE OFFENSIVE LINEMEN TO WATCH THIS SEASON
Arthur Avila, Upland: The 6-2, 285-pound senior can play tackle or guard for the Highlanders.
Tyler Chen, Rancho Cucamonga:
The 6-2, 245-pound senior provides leadership on the line.
Harrison Cornell, Ontario Christian: The 6-3, 235-pound senior also plays soccer and volleyball. P.J. Enosa, San Jacinto: The 6-2, 270-pound senior can be a force on both sides of the ball.
Savian Faucette, Colony: The 6-3, 250-pound senior anchors the line for the Titans once again.
Jackson Nickel, Chino Hills: The 6-3, 290-pound senior earned ALLCIF Southern Section honors.
Izaiah Souriolle, Chaparral: The 6-3, 285-pound senior already has a half dozen college offers.
Jason Steele, Murrieta Valley:
The 6-4, 270-pound senior committed to Boise State in April.
T.J. Tarascio, North: The 6-3, 295-pound senior also excels in the classroom with a 4.57GPA.
Jack Trimble, Great Oak: The 5-10, 245-pound senior is one of the top centers in the area.