Jake Arnitz’s sister Chelsee had a message for Esperanza head coach Isaac Owens following a recent Aztecs’ match regarding her younger brother.
“Just make sure he doesn’t get too big headed,” Chelsee told Owens.
These days if Arnitz were to get a big head, could you blame him?
The Esperanza junior had a career-high 44 kills in the CIF Division II final to lead the Aztecs to their first sectional championship since 2007. On Thursday night, he had 29 kills and six aces to help Esperanza get past South Pasadena for their 12th straight win and advance to the Southern California Regional final.
And, oh by the way, he’s committed to play for John Speraw and UCLA.
Suffice to say, he’s enjoying himself.
“It’s a blast,” said the 6-foot-7 outside hitter.
As for him getting a big head, he’s far from it. He credits his sister as well as the rest of his family for helping him “stay in line.” According to Owens, he’s as humble as they come and has done a tremendous job in 2013 in his new role.
Before the start of the season, Owens virtually told Arnitz he would be the guy. He’s now the one players look to, not just to dominate at the net, but for leadership as well.
“I had to take it more seriously and be the team leader,” Arnitz said. “I thought I was ready for it and my coaches definitely pushed me and talked to me and helped me out.
“This year I pretty much have to tell everyone what to do at all times. ‘Let’s go run and stretch. Let’s start getting ready and get our shoes on.’ I just have to make sure everything is done on time and everyone (is doing) what they’re supposed to do to get a win.”
As the postseason has progressed, Arnitz has played his best. This postseason, he made it a point to carry his team and he’s delivered.
“Every since CIF started, I was super stressed out because I wanted that title,” he said. “That was always what we strived for the last three years and I thought this year we had a good opportunity to do that.”
Added Owens: “I think he’s had a good time. I think it’s a challenge compared to last year.
Last year we didn’t need him as much because there were other strong players around him but this year we’ve needed him to be the man pretty much every night.”
And hasn't gotten a big head.
