Throughout the new 45-minute documentary chronicling the history of the CIF Southern Division, the face and voice of its volunteer historian, John Dahlem, lets everyone know his determination and dedication to preserving, researching and uncovering the invaluable facts of the organization founded in 1913.
A 45-minute documentary about the history of the CIF Southern Section will air publicly for the first time Saturday following the Santa Margarita De La Salle football game on Spectrum.
(Eric Sondheimer/Los Angeles Times)
From the very first game programs created in high schools to the unusual sports that were once played, this documentary offers informative and intriguing details and will be greatly appreciated by anyone who has been involved in California high school sports, whether coach, player, parent or former participant.
Before his death last year, Dahlem found many historical items. From old videos to old trophies and old medallions, this is a look back and forth at how high school sports have changed, including the fact that girls weren't allowed to compete in the playoffs until 1974.
Nothing is more intriguing than Dahlem's display, there was once a hand grenade competition in which a student from Huntington Park won the first competition. Yes, it was about arm strength, which is why baseball players were good at throwing hand grenades.
The film will premiere on television Saturday night on Spectrum following the conclusion of the Santa Margarita De La Salle state football championship game. Then it will move to Southern Section YouTube site.
Former Southern Section Commissioner Rob Vigod serves as narrator for the project, which was executive produced by Taylor Martinez.
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