Vikings' versatile Bonner brings speed to all aspects of his game

The Valencia back, who has run a 10.48 in 100 meters, also excels at kickoffs, receiving.

- BY ERIC SONDHEIMER

CRAIG WESTON For The Times

SENIOR BRIAN BONNER played on the junior varsity football team as a freshman and took what he learned there to excel at the varsity level for the Vikings.

There are many ways Brian Bonner of Valencia High influences a football game.

As a running back, using his 10.48-second speed in the 100 meters, any kind of opening creates the opportunity for a touchdown.

Ditto catching a ball out of the backfield and being allowed to improvise as he makes defenders miss.

And then there's kickoff returns, where he builds up speed like a locomotive and heads to the end zone faster than putting mustard on a hot dog.

"I think being versatile is very important," he said. "A lot of teams in college look for a running back that can do more than run the ball. They want you to be able to catch and block."