Historians say the gold rush in California ended many years ago. But last season the ISU football program found many riches in the state, coming in the form of talented junior college transfers.

They’ve had a year to settle in, so now it’s time to take a look at what they’ve done.

The standout from this Cal crew is wide receiver Damien Groce, who came here from San Bernardino Valley Junior College.

Last year, Groce made quite an impact, catching 47 passes for a total of 640 yards. He was also third in scoring with seven touchdowns, just one away from tying the ISU single season record for touchdown receptions.

During his short stint here, he has achieved many honors: 1998 ISU Most Outstanding Newcomer, 1998 Second Team All-Big 12, 1999 Sporting News Pre-Season Second Team All-Big 12, and 1999 Football News Pre-Season First Team All-Big 12.

Another huge contributor is safety Jeff Waters. Waters, a transfer from L.A. Southwest Community College, led the team with 93 tackles last season. He also forced one fumble and recovered two.

Waters had his breakthrough game last year vs. Missouri. He had a career-high 18 tackles and recovered a fumble for the Cyclones.

There were five other California junior college players who transferred last year to the ISU football program. The list included defensive lineman Robert Brannon, former defensive back Javon Daniels, defensive back Jason Parrott, former defensive lineman Clyde Sanders and linebacker Ab Turner. They all had outstanding achievements in high school and junior college before arriving.

Brannon played with teammate Groce at San Bernardino Valley Community College before arriving at ISU. Last season, he accounted for 27 tackles and 1.5 sacks.

Parrott attended Saddleback Community College before transferring. He tallied 22 tackles during his playing time last season.

Turner is the only junior in the bunch. He is a transfer from Grossmont College. The linebacker racked up 61 tackles in his first season here.

Seniors Clyde Sanders and Javon Daniels did not return to the Cyclones this year for different reasons. Sanders managed 11 tackles and .5 sacks, and Daniels picked up 19 tackles, one pass breakup and a fumble recovery.

The coaching staff is eager to see how much more these athletes can improve upon their rookie seasons in Division 1A.

One thing to remember about all of these players: They have never lost to Iowa, nor do they plan to.