Bernie played in the bone game all four years of his high school career. He was a 4-year 2 way starter at both the offensive and defensive line, wearing #51. In those 4 years Bernie lead Rancho to 2 victories, one as captain in 1979. After high school Bernie continued playing football at the college level. Currently Bernie is captain of the fire department, where he has been serving for the past 30+ years. In 2015, Bernie returned to Rancho High School to coach the football program.