All-Star Game a bonding experience for Navy signees Pearson, Peko

Faith Lutheran receiver Don Pearson and Bishop Gorman cornerback Togasii Peko have formed a bond while competing against each other during practice this week.

It's a glimpse of what lies ahead for the two seniors, who will play football at Navy next season.

Pearson and Peko will lead the Sunset Region seniors against the Sunrise seniors in the 40th West Charleston Lions Club Charity All-Star Game at 7 p.m. today at Bishop Gorman High School.

"To have that person who knows what you're going through, it'll help," Pearson said of Peko.

The physical Pearson and speedy Peko first went against each other Monday in practice for the Sunset team.

"It's a friendly competition," Peko said. "It's really cool to know somebody going (to Navy)."

At a time when scandals continue to stain college football, Pearson and Peko are reminders that it's not all bad. Both are standout students who chose the Midshipmen for reasons beyond football.

"I'm really excited for the education aspect of it," Peko said. "I want to be an engineer, and to see the facilities there, it was a huge factor in my decision."

Foothill linebacker Connor Afoa, a UNLV signee, and Las Vegas High receiver Marquan Major (Idaho) are among the top players for the Sunrise.

Gorman coach Tony Sanchez will coach the Sunset after guiding the Gaels to their second straight Class 4A state title last season. Liberty's Rich Muraco will coach the Sunrise after taking the Patriots to their first region title.

Tickets are a $5 charitable donation, and more contributions can be made. Officials hope to raise $40,000 at the 40th anniversary event, with proceeds going to the Blind Center of Nevada, the Lions Burn Center at University Medical Center, the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation and others. Event co-chairman John Klumbach said last year's event raised more than $26,000.

■ NBPA TOP 100 CAMP -- Five local boys basketball players were selected to the National Basketball Players Association Top 100 High School Basketball Camp, which will run June 15 to 18 at the University of Virginia.

Bishop Gorman's Shabazz Muhammad and Rosco Allen will be joined by Findlay Prep's Anthony Bennett, Winston Shepard and Landen Lucas at the event.

Roughly 30 current and former NBA players attend the camp each year to instruct campers in on-court and off-court challenges they might face in the future.

Contact reporter Tristan Aird at taird@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-5203.