Cardinal Newman junior James "Juice" Curoso has been named Cal-Hi Sports' Northern California Special Teams/Multi-Purpose Player of the Week following a six-touchdown performance against Clayton Valley Charter.

Curoso rushed for 202 yards on 19 carries and scored all six of the Cardinals' touchdowns in their 45–7 road victory, according to Cal-Hi Sports. He averaged more than 10 yards per carry while helping Newman improve to 2–2.

His contributions extended across all three phases of the game. Curoso caught three passes for 59 yards, recorded seven tackles and added a 38-yard punt return. His rushing, receiving and return production totaled 299 all-purpose yards.

The award-winning effort added to a productive start to his junior season. Through four games, MaxPreps lists Curoso with 463 rushing yards on 82 carries and nine rushing touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry and 115.8 yards per game. He also has 12 receptions for 157 yards, giving him 620 yards from scrimmage. Including 27 kickoff-return yards and 60 punt-return yards, his season total stands at 707 all-purpose yards—176.8 per game.

Cal-Hi Sports' Harold Abend attended the Clayton Valley Charter game and highlighted Curoso's combination of speed and strength in the publication's weekly awards coverage. Whether taking direct snaps in the Wildcat formation or accelerating through the defense, Curoso gave the Cardinals multiple ways to reach the end zone.

The performance also showcased the athletic ability that has made him a standout on the wrestling mat. Curoso was the CIF State runner-up in the 165-pound wrestling division last season. Against Clayton Valley Charter, that strength complemented his ability to run past defenders and finish through contact.

With contributions as a runner, receiver, defender and returner, Curoso's versatility made him a fitting selection for the Northern California multi-purpose honor.

Sources: Cal-Hi Sports and MaxPreps. Season statistics through four games, as updated September 22. Photo: Harold Abend.