Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Los Banos, CA
For most men, getting older is a distant thought; a time when bucket-list items are crossed off the list, financial goals are accomplished, and retirement awaits. But then, one day, we wake up and realize that we're not just getting older - we are older. Workouts in the gym start to cause more aches and pains the next morning. Keeping weight off around the midsection is much harder than it once was. Stretching before an impromptu game of basketball isn't just a good idea - it's necessary for you to perform. And that gets to the crux of what men hate most about aging - the inability to perform as they used to, whether it's in the bedroom or on the basketball court.
Unfortunately, there's no avoiding the inevitable. As men age, their testosterone levels deplete, causing a slew of mid-life maladies like:
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Loss of Energy
- Lack of Interest in Sex
- Low Sex Drive
- Can't Hold an Erection
- Irritability
- Weight Gain
- Muscle Loss
- Hair Loss
- Nagging Injuries
If you're a man in his 30s or 40s, and you feel like you're dragging your feet through life with no upside, don't lose hope. Millions of men just like you are experiencing the same symptoms and feelings that you're suffering through. In fact, almost 75% of men live life with undiagnosed low testosterone.
Unlike those men, however, you don't have to settle for the effects of aging. There are easy, science-backed solutions available to you right now. If you're ready to reclaim the looks and feel of your prime, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be for you. TRT in Los Banos, CA bridges the gap between your old life with low-T and the new, more virile version of you. That's where Testosterone Optimization Program comes in - to facilitate your transition to a new life with optimal testosterone levels. With TOP by your side, you'll have the guidance and tools to get back on track with personalized TRT plans.
But to understand the life-changing benefits of TOP, you've got to first understand testosterone, the symptoms of low-T, and how TRT works to replenish this much-needed hormone.
What is Testosterone?
When the average person thinks about testosterone, they conjure images of overly aggressive males trying to be extra macho. In reality, however, testosterone is a critical hormone that affects almost every aspect of a male's life. Since it's a sex hormone, testosterone is produced through a male's testicles and is at its highest levels during puberty.
How is Testosterone Produced?
Testosterone is ultimately controlled by the pituitary gland at the base of your brain. Your pituitary gland sends signals to your testicles, and in turn, they produce testosterone. When T levels are too high, your brain tells your pituitary gland to halt production.
Testosterone has a drastic effect on males, especially those going through puberty. It helps males develop:
- Facial hair
- Deeper Voice
- Body Hair
- Sperm
- Libido
- Muscle Mass
- Confidence
Did You Know?
The cholesterol in your body actually synthesizes testosterone but having high cholesterol doesn't mean you have high T. Luckily, your testosterone levels are too well controlled by your pituitary gland to affect your T levels.
What are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Research shows that low testosterone in men increases by about 20% when a man is over 60 and 50% when a man is older than 80.
Additionally, nearly 40% of men have low testosterone if their blood pressure and cholesterol levels are high. To make matters worse, almost 50% of men with obesity have low-T. If you fall into one or more of these categories, it might be time to change your life with more exercise, a healthy diet, and TRT in Los Banos, CA.
If you're experiencing any of the following signs of low-T, it could be time to consider the Testosterone Optimization Program:
Fatigue
Are you overwhelmed with apathy and sluggishness, even on your days off? Men with low-T often report loss of energy levels and extreme fatigue, even when they don't put in a full day's work. If you're always tired, despite maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, it may be time to have your testosterone levels checked.
Hair Loss
Testosterone has a vital role in many functions of the male body, including hair follicle production. While many men go bald due to inherited genes, you should be on alert if you're losing hair, particularly if hair loss isn't in your family.
Weight Gain
If we're being honest, a man's sex life can be all but over if they gain a lot of weight. That's especially true when a man has low testosterone and develops symptoms like large breasts. Along with weight gain comes a slew of other health hazards, from high blood pressure to heart problems. If you used to be slim but haven't been able to shed the weight since middle age, you may have low-T. Fortunately, many men enrolled in the Testosterone Optimization Program are able to reverse their weight gain with exercise, discipline, and proper T levels.
Erectile Dysfunction
If there were two words that men worldwide hate to hear, it's erectile dysfunction. If you're one of the millions of men dealing with the fallout of ED and you're ready to make a change, TOP is here to help. Unlike some fly-by-night male health clinics, which only treat the symptoms of ED, we prefer to address the underlying causes, like low testosterone. Our TRT treatments have the potential to do precisely that and more. That way, you don't have to rely on inconvenient pills or invasive surgeries for relief.
Some additional symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Brain Fog
- Low Libido
- Lethargy
- High Cholesterol
- Poor Skin Quality
- Depression
How Does TRT in Los Banos, CA Work?
We know you're excited to learn more about the benefits of TRT. But before we dive into the best parts of testosterone replacement therapy, you've got to understand how it works first.
Initially lab-synthesized in 1935, testosterone has been used in medical settings across the globe to address low-T levels. In fact, testosterone is one of the most prescribed meds in the USA.
TRT does almost exactly what its name implies - it replaces diminished testosterone levels in older men. TRT is similar in a way to the insulin people need when they have diabetes. When your body can't produce a hormone, it must be replaced by an exogenous source. In this case, that hormone is testosterone.
As an important androgen in males, testosterone's role is interwoven into the natural processes a man needs for overall health. With TRT, the added hormonal intake has a positive impact on TOP patients and their general health, often preventing cardiac and bone-related diseases like osteoporosis. By providing men with healthy levels of this crucial hormone, they are often able to reclaim the confidence and excitement of living in their 20s and 30s.
While many men begin TRT treatments after 50, younger men are having their testosterone levels checked at TRT clinics like TOP. If you're "too young" for TRT but find yourself suffering from serious symptoms like ED, it may be time to measure your T levels.
Book Appointment
559-354-3537
Exploring the Exciting Benefits of TRT in Los Banos, CA
If you're in search of TRT in California, you're not alone. Hundreds of thousands of men are reclaiming their youth and vigor with testosterone replacement therapy. With TOP medical professionals by your side, you too can experience the healthy, exciting benefits of TRT.
Some of the most frequent benefits we hear about from patients include:
Increased Sexual Desire
If there's one thing that hits men the hardest as they age, it's the inability to perform in the bedroom. Maybe that's why increased libido is among the top reasons men sign up for the Testosterone Optimization Program. In case you were unaware, testosterone levels go up in response to arousal and sexual activity.
In fact, men with higher testosterone levels often enjoy more sexual activity than men with low levels of testosterone. But men over 40 often need more T to achieve erections and maintain sexual desire. TRT is a trustworthy solution for men looking to re-light their sexual spark.
Bone Strength
Testosterone has a very important role in muscle development and mass. But as men get older, their bone mineral densities drop as their T levels get lower. This drop can cause issues like less muscle mass and even osteoporosis. When your bones lose strength, your organs and muscles suffer, lessening your athletic performance and quality of life.
However, research shows us that a man's bone density can increase when they take TRT. Several clinical trials even report better spine and hip bone density too.
Heart Health
The role of a healthy heart is to distribute blood through your body, providing muscles and organs oxygen to function. But when your T levels are low, your organs and muscles suffer due to a lack of red blood cell production. Low testosterone has also been linked to heart issues, which is a big concern for men, especially who have a history of heart disease.
Fortunately, a recent study found that men using TRT to restore their testosterone levels were 24% less likely to have a heart attack and 36% less likely to have a stroke. These promising results show that TRT may keep your blood and heart healthier.
But those benefits just scratch the surface. TOP patients also report additional benefits, such as:
- Stronger Erections
- Better Mood
- Less Fatigue
- Less Body Fat
- Improved Workout Recovery
- Better Brain Functionality
- Enhanced Memory
- Lower LDL
- Improved Regulation of Blood Sugar
- Extra Confidence
Book an Appointment
FAQs About TRT
Have questions about TRT in Los Banos, CA? You can always call our TRT clinic in Fresno to speak with one of our helpful, friendly staff members. We love talking to new patients and are here to help in any way we are able. Until we hear from you, here are just a few of the most frequently asked questions we get about TRT.
TOP Los Banos | FAQ
Q: What is the process?
A: After you submit your information, our front staff, April, will reach out to help answer any initial questions - most of which can all be answered in this FAQ. To start the program, you'll need to get blood work so we can see how low your testosterone levels are. We will provide you the slip to take when getting blood work.
Within 7-10 days we'll receive the blood work and call you to book a telemedicine appointment with Dr. Lester to go over the results and program specifics.
Q: How much is the treatment?
A: $200/month
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: No, we do not accept insurance. Testosterone therapy is a cash-pay treatment.
Q: How long until I see results?
A: Most TRT therapy patients start seeing results just 2-5 weeks after beginning treatment.
Q: How old do I need to be to qualify?
A: It's not about age, it's about your testosterone levels. We have patients in their early 30s all the way up into their 80s who are currently benefiting from testosterone therapy.
Q: How do I get treatment?
A: We can discreetly ship the treatment right to your door.
Q: How long do I have to stay on treatment?
A: As long as you want to continue feeling good! As we get older our T levels do not naturally go back up, so we like to get patients to a state where they can cycle on and off while maintaining the optimal level for them.
TOP Fresno | FAQ
Q: What is the process?
A: After you submit your information, our staff (either Michele or Kassy) will reach out to help answer any initial questions - most of which can all be answered in this FAQ. To start the program, you'll need to get blood work so we can see how low your testosterone levels are. We will provide you the slip to take when getting blood work.
Within 7-10 days we'll receive the blood work and call you to book an in-person/ telemedicine appointment with Dr. Lester to go over the results and program specifics.
Q: How much is the treatment?
A: $200/month
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: We accept major insurances ONLY at the Fresno, CA location. The list of insurances we DO NOT accept are:
- Medi-Cal
- Any type of HMO plan
- FUSD
- Aetna
- United Health Care
- Covered California
- Calviva
- Tricare
Q: How long until I see results?
A: Most TRT therapy patients start seeing results just 2-5 weeks after beginning treatment.
Q: How old do I need to be to qualify?
A: It's not about age, it's about your testosterone levels. We have patients in their early 30s all the way up into their 80s who are currently benefiting from testosterone therapy.
Q: Do I have to come into the office for every treatment?
A: No, it's optional! Drop in whenever you need another injection, or we can discreetly ship the treatment right to your door.
Q: How long do I have to stay on treatment?
A: As long as you want to continue feeling good! As we get older our T levels do not naturally go back up, so we like to get patients to a state where they can cycle on and off while maintaining the optimal level for them.
Trust the TOP Difference
Did you know that one in five men over the age of 45 exhibit signs of low testosterone? Male testosterone levels begin dropping gradually as soon as age 30. As men age and start to question their sexual health, some of the top symptoms they report are low libido, erectile dysfunction, and delayed ejaculation. When combined, these symptoms can lead men to develop self-image issues, experience poor relationships, and even have a lower quality of life.
But for men living with low-T, a clear path has been paved toward relief. That path starts with the Testosterone Optimization Program. TOP was founded to give men with low-T a new lease on life - one that includes less body fat, fewer performance issues in the bedroom, and more energy. If you're ready to feel and look younger, it's time to consider testosterone replacement therapy from TOP. TRT in Los Banos, CA, is safe, streamlined for convenience, and personalized to your unique needs. That way, you can age on your own terms and love life as you did in your prime.
Patients choose TOP because we take the time to learn about your low-T symptoms and provide personalized, in-office treatment. Other benefits include:
- Blood Tests to Determine Low-T Diagnosis
- Personalized TRT Plans Based on Your Goals
- No Need for Trips to the Pharmacy
- In-Office Intramuscular TRT Injections
- TRT Provided by Licensed Doctors
- Clean, Comfortable, and Calming TRT Clinic in Fresno
- Many Men Experience Results Quickly
How the TOP Program Works
Most TRT therapy patients start seeing results just 2-5 weeks after beginning treatment. Some men take just a few months to experience the full benefits of male hormone replacement therapy. Through the treatment plan our low testosterone doctors create specifically for you, they can help alleviate most, if not all, of the symptoms associated with low testosterone.
559-354-3537
Latest News in Los Banos, CA
Los Banos’ mayor talks about homelessness, infrastructure
John Houghtonhttps://www.yourcentralvalley.com/meetingwiththemayors/los-banos-mayor-talks-about-homelessness-infrastructure/
LOS BANOS, California.- (KGPE) This week Anchor Mederios Babb talked with Los Banos Mayor Paul Llanez to talk about homelessness, infrastructure improvements, and keeping up with the growth.Watch Meeting with the Mayors at noon and 4:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday mornings only on CBS47.Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed....
LOS BANOS, California.- (KGPE) This week Anchor Mederios Babb talked with Los Banos Mayor Paul Llanez to talk about homelessness, infrastructure improvements, and keeping up with the growth.
Watch Meeting with the Mayors at noon and 4:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday mornings only on CBS47.
Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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Discover the Hidden Gems of Los Banos, California: A Guide to the City's Best Restaurants, Parks, and Activities
california.comhttps://www.california.com/discover-the-hidden-gems-of-los-banos-california-a-guide-to-the-citys-best-restaurants-parks-and-activities/
Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, Los Banos, California, is a small city with a lot to offer. From delicious dining options to beautiful parks and exciting activities, Los Banos has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore some of the best places to visit and things to do in Los Banos, so pack your bags and get ready to explore this hidden gem!Get Back to Nature at the San Luis National Wildlife RefugeIf you're looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, head over to the San Luis Na...
Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, Los Banos, California, is a small city with a lot to offer. From delicious dining options to beautiful parks and exciting activities, Los Banos has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore some of the best places to visit and things to do in Los Banos, so pack your bags and get ready to explore this hidden gem!
Get Back to Nature at the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge
If you're looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, head over to the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge. This 12,000-acre sanctuary is home to over 300 species of birds and other wildlife, making it a must-see for nature lovers. You can hike the trails, go birdwatching, or simply enjoy the peace and tranquility of this beautiful natural setting.
Dine at the Best Restaurants in Town
Los Banos may be a small city, but it boasts a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste. For breakfast, head to the charming Bluebird Cottage Cafe, which serves up delicious homemade pastries and hearty breakfast dishes. For lunch, check out Big T's Ranch House BBQ, which offers mouthwatering smoked meats and classic BBQ sides. And for dinner, don't miss out on the authentic Mexican cuisine at Las Banos Taqueria, which serves up delicious tacos, burritos, and more.
Explore the City's Parks and Recreation Areas
Los Banos is home to several beautiful parks and recreational areas, perfect for a day out with the family or a solo adventure. Pacheco State Park is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and camping, while the Los Banos Creek Reservoir offers fishing, boating, and other water sports. The Henry Miller Plaza is another must-visit, with its beautiful fountains, colorful murals, and community events throughout the year.
Take a Trip Back in Time at the Los Banos Museum
For a taste of local history, head to the Los Banos Museum. This small but informative museum showcases the history of the city and the surrounding area, with exhibits on everything from local agriculture to the town's early settlers. It's a great place to learn about the city's past and gain a deeper appreciation for its present.
Shop at the Local Farmers Market
If you're a fan of fresh, locally grown produce, be sure to check out the Los Banos Farmers Market. Held every Saturday from 7:30 am to 11:30 am, this market is a great place to find fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, and other locally made products. It's a great way to support local farmers and businesses while enjoying some of the best produce California has to offer.
As you can see, Los Banos, California, has plenty to offer visitors looking for a unique and enjoyable experience. Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, there's something for everyone in this charming Central Valley city. So why not plan your trip today and discover the hidden gems of Los Banos for yourself?
With a three-year starter returning at quarterback, Los Banos aiming for another WAC title
Shawn Jansenhttps://www.mercedsunstar.com/sports/high-school/article277946008.html
David Herrera was at the top of the list on every scouting report of any football team facing Los Banos High School last season.The Tigers quarterback was one of the most dynamic play-makers in Merced County, rushing for 879 yards and 13 touchdowns to go along with 1,206 passing yards and another 16 scores through the air.Herrera was named the Western Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year after leading the Tigers to the WAC championship with a perfect 7-0 conference record last year.The third-year starter shou...
David Herrera was at the top of the list on every scouting report of any football team facing Los Banos High School last season.
The Tigers quarterback was one of the most dynamic play-makers in Merced County, rushing for 879 yards and 13 touchdowns to go along with 1,206 passing yards and another 16 scores through the air.
Herrera was named the Western Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year after leading the Tigers to the WAC championship with a perfect 7-0 conference record last year.
The third-year starter should be even better this season.
“The game has slowed down a lot for me,” said Herrera. “I’m able to understand our offense, what we’re looking to do and what we’re looking for coverage-wise. My throwing is a lot better. I’m more accurate and consistent.”
With Herrera returning — along with a handful of starters on both sides of the ball — Los Banos will be aiming for a second consecutive WAC championship.
“A lot of our guys are returning, and they know what that feeling is like going undefeated in league and winning a championship,” Herrera said. “They know what it takes and they want to experience that again. We want to chase that feeling.”
The Tigers return three starters on the offensive line in seniors Jett Lindeman, Philip VanderPoel and Jackson Silva. Running back Joel Alveranga has looked impressive early, and Herrera has weapons at receiver in Cade Torres, Yahir Zuniga and Byron Zuniga.
“This group is awesome,” said Los Banos head coach Dustin Caropreso. “There’s no complaining, no arguing, nobody asking why are we running this? They just come in, show up on time, get the work in and get out.”
The defense will be anchored by Lindeman and Silva, who were both all-WAC selections last year.
“Both of those guys will be big for us,” Caropreso said. “Jett is special in many ways. He doesn’t say more than two words half the time. He works his butt off. I think his work ethic is what stands out the most about him.”
Caropreso says Herrera is the first three-year starter at quarterback he’s had as he begins his 12th season as the Tigers head coach.
“It makes it so much easier because he knows what we’re trying to do,” Caropreso said. “He knows what is going on. I think the biggest difference I’ve seen in him is in the weight room. He’s put on muscle and he’s grown a couple inches. He’s getting bigger and throwing the ball better.”
With the Sac-Joaquin Section undergoing realignment next year, this will be Los Banos’ final year in the WAC. The Tigers will join the Central California Conference next year.
“We’re going to have a target on us,” said Caropreso. “Not only did we win the league championship last year, but we’re also leaving the conference.”
Los Banos 2023 Schedule
Sept. 18 vs Dos Palos
Sept. 25 vs Hilmar
Sept. 1 at Orestimba
Sept. 15 at Beyer
Sept. 22 vs Davis
Sept. 29 vs Mountain House
Oct. 6 at Johansen
Oct. 13 at Ceres
Oct. 20 vs Lathrop
Oct. 27 vs Pacheco
After funnel cloud and hail, what’s next for Merced County? Storms continue this week
Andrew Kuhnhttps://www.mercedsunstar.com/news/weather-news/article273089980.html
A storm cell that blew through the Valley produced thunder and lightning as well as hail and funnel clouds in and around Merced County, according to the National Weather Service.A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Merced, Madera and Fresno counties near Dos Palos and Los Banos on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service San Joaquin Valley office in Hanford. A storm cell that tracked through the southeast portion of Merced County produced up to 1 inch of rain reported in the Los Banos area, according to meteorologist ...
A storm cell that blew through the Valley produced thunder and lightning as well as hail and funnel clouds in and around Merced County, according to the National Weather Service.
A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Merced, Madera and Fresno counties near Dos Palos and Los Banos on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service San Joaquin Valley office in Hanford. A storm cell that tracked through the southeast portion of Merced County produced up to 1 inch of rain reported in the Los Banos area, according to meteorologist Jim Brusda with the weather service.
Brusda said dime-sized hail was reported in Dos Palos and a funnel cloud was reported about one mile east of Dos Palos. A funnel cloud was also detected near Firebaugh. An EF-1 tornado which produced winds of up to 90 mph touched down in Tuolumne County on Saturday about six miles southwest of Tuttletown. According to Brusda, there were no reports of tornadoes in Merced County on Sunday.
“That part of the county was hit harder than other parts of Merced County,” said Brusda.
Merced saw about one-quarter to half an inch of rain on Sunday with the Stevinson area recording about .48 inches of rain. According to Brusda, the Merced River was recorded to be at about 70 feet in Stevinson Monday morning and is forecast to rise above 72 feet Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning. Flood stage is 71 feet.
On Monday morning, Bear Creek was recorded to be at 13.5 feet and is forecast to rise just above the flood stage of 23 feet late Tuesday and into Wednesday morning, according to forecasters.
The Merced area is expected to see the warmest temperatures of the week Monday with a high in the upper 60s. Brusda said the area could see a chance of thunderstorms throughout the day with the best chance of precipitation occurring after midnight.
“Late tonight and Tuesday is the heaviest band of precipitation,” said Brusda.
Temperatures are expected to reach a high in the low 60s Tuesday with a 100% chance of rain, according to the weather service. Rain is expected to continue into Wednesday with a 30% chance of rain before clearing up Wednesday night.
Valley areas could see as much as 1-1.5 inches from Monday night though Wednesday morning, according to Brusda. Some mountain areas northeast of Merced could see as much as 3-4 inches of rain with snow at elevations above 7,000 feet.
The Merced area is expected to see a high temperature in the low 60s on Thursday and a high in the mid 60s on Friday with a 30% chance of rain, according to forecasters.
Rainfall in the Mariposa area was not overly heavy with about 0.4 inches recorded on Sunday about 30 miles northeast of Merced. Even without heavy rains, the recent rainfall is enough to cause problems and concerns of flash flooding and mudslides, according to Brusda.
According to the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office, a shelter in place order was issued for the Foresta area on Saturday with access to the area compromised. According to sheriff’s office spokesperson Kristie Mitchell, the order was lifted Monday morning. Mitchell said the order was prompted due to a mudslide and rockslide in the park as well a mudslide and washout on Highway 120. Caltrans has since established a one-way traffic control on Highway 120, according to Mitchell.
A shelter in place order was also issued for the area of Triangle Park Road and the nearby neighborhoods due to a bridge culvert failure along a road which is not maintained by the county, according to Mitchell. That order was expected to be lifted Monday.
“We’ve had damage countywide, but as far as access for people and shelter in place, those are the only two areas,” Mitchell said.
According to Mitchell, residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts and MSO alerts as well as to seek information from official sources and to pay attention to all warnings that are issued.
This story was originally published March 13, 2023, 12:20 PM.
Football and Community Through Time – Coach Donald Toscano
Alexis E. Abbotthttps://losbanosenterprise.com/community/youth/2023/football-and-community-through-time-coach-donald-toscano/
“Working as a coach and as a teacher is probably one of the most fulfilling things a person could do in a vocational profession. Nothing could be more rewarding than to hopefully have an impact on students’ lives, on players’ lives, and on the community as a whole.”These were words straight from the mouth of Coach Donald Toscano.Don Toscano played football at Los Banos High School and in Merced College in Los Banos in the 1960’s but was more excited to talk about what it was like being a coach, &ld...
“Working as a coach and as a teacher is probably one of the most fulfilling things a person could do in a vocational profession. Nothing could be more rewarding than to hopefully have an impact on students’ lives, on players’ lives, and on the community as a whole.”
These were words straight from the mouth of Coach Donald Toscano.
Don Toscano played football at Los Banos High School and in Merced College in Los Banos in the 1960’s but was more excited to talk about what it was like being a coach, “You know, being a player is very fulfilling but that’s on a personal level. Whereas coaching kids and being part of a community program is what’s really important.”
He said, “When I coached, we were in Division 2 and we were the smallest school in the state of California that was in Division 2, and we won two separate championships.”
He was referencing his teams from 1988 and 1991, who won the SJS championship.
When talking about his coaching experience, he excitedly shared what it was like going up against other schools much larger than his team in Los Banos, “One year we were ranked third in the state and the next year we were ranked fourth in the state of California. In one of those championships, we were in a situation where only the lead champions went on to play. We were always playing schools three times our size. We were 880 and they were 1,100 all the way up to 2,200.”
When remembering all the players he’s coached over the years, Coach Toscano mused on what makes a player special, “There’s this idea that talent is what makes a kid special. It’s not. Does it make him a good player? Yeah! But you know what’s special is that kid that doesn’t have a lot of ability and yet he comes to practice and busts his butt. He’s there every day working. Those are the kids that are special. They have that drive!”
Coach Toscano went on to state that good character comes from the home and is reinforced on the field and in sports.
“When talking about players, another thing is that people believe that football creates character in kids. It doesn’t. It reinforces it. Character is created in the home and comes directly from the parents. When a child has good character that’s only reinforced in sports and on the field. That’s thanks to their parents for putting that good character in them.”
“I used to say, ‘I want all my freshman to play,’ so I instituted two things. I said, ‘Number one: we do away with freshman championships,’ because I didn’t want any pressure on freshman coaches. Don’t win championships, play the kids. And the second thing I instituted was what they call The Fifth Quarter. I said, ‘Let’s do away with championships and institute a fifth quarter for all those kids that maybe didn’t get to really play.’ Because I wanted those kids who didn’t get a chance during the first four quarters to be able to play.”
When he stepped down from coaching at Los Banos High School in 2003, he passed the clipboard on to Coach Gary Caropreso, father of current coach Dustin Caropreso. He has since become the coach for his grandkid’s football team.
When asked about how it was to now coach his own grandchildren, he laughed and said, “Well, they probably coach me. But how it all started is, I still work clinics, I work out of state, and I work southern California, and my daughter enlisted me to coach basketball. You know, I’m a terrible basketball coach but I make sure the kids learn the skill. Then I coached them in a recreation football team, which was a good time.”
The biggest message that was repeated throughout the interview with Coach Donald Toscano was his deep appreciation for community, “I think that head coaches tend to take too much credit. The truth is, whatever success we have here, whatever success we have on the field as coaches is not on the head coach it’s on the staff and the kids and the community support. Without the staff who run the games, without the band, without the cheerleaders, without the parents and the kids who work hard, we wouldn’t have anything.”
“I had a great staff and great parents, players, community support, band, and cheerleaders. That’s the true philosophy, community. Community is the most important thing and giving back to the community is the most important thing someone can do.
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