West Hills College Coalinga football head coach Justin Berna has always stressed the importance of success as in the classroom as well as on the field. On Thursday, Berna announced that freshmen Rusty Finona and Nathan Vargas were named to the Academic All-State team.

"Congratulations to Rusty and Nathan for being named Academic All-State," said Berna. "Both young men work extremely hard on and off the field and deserve this award. I am very proud of them both."

To qualify for the honor, student-athletes have to participate in every game and have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or better.

Finona, a defensive back from Seaside, also earned All-Valley League honorable mention honors for his play on the field. He totaled 20 tackles and one interception over six games this past fall season.

Vargas saw action on special teams and was the Falcons' primary long snapper on punts and field goals. He came to West Hills from Firebaugh High School.