Heritage Wrestler Chavez to Represent the Girls at State Meet

Girls wrestling is still relatively new in CIF sports, and at Heritage High School as well. The Patriots have had only five female wrestlers in the three years girls have joined the boys team in competition.

One of those pioneers is senior Chelsea Chavez, in her third year as a wrestler at the school. An eighth-place finisher at the CIF girls state championships last year, she has qualified again for the state tournament, which takes place Friday and Saturday in Visalia.

"She's gone the furthest of all my wrestlers," said Mario Moreno, the school's wrestling coach. "My boys haven't even been to state yet."

Wrestling at 101 pounds, Chavez competed against boys most of this season because there is no girls league in the area. Like most schools, Heritage doesn't have a girls team. Chavez works out with the guys -- usually wrestling against 120-pounder Isaac Guerrero in workouts.

"It's kinda weird," said Guerrero, who placed second in the Sunbelt League finals and advanced to the CIF finals. "I had never wrestled a girl before. I didn't know whether to take it easy or go hard."

Saying her male counterparts on the wrestling team are very supportive of her, Chavez looks forward to another shot in the state meet.

"I was like a nobody when I started," Chavez said. "I've come pretty far. You just have to keep at it. It was definitely not easy in the beginning.

"It was just something I liked. Guys don't think girls can do it. This is to show people we can."

Chavez said it is worth the challenges she faces in finding female opponents and in facing male opponents -- some of whom she has defeated.

"Since we don't have a girls team, it's hard to find girls to wrestle," she said. "Most of the past two years, I've wrestled against boys. I usually lose, but I think they underestimate girls wrestling. I have beaten a few guys. They end up really upset. I feel kinda bad for them."

Chavez placed fifth in the girls CIF qualifying meet Feb. 7-8 at Rancho Verde High School. She then took second in the state qualifying meet Feb. 15 at Roosevelt High in Eastvale.

Chavez said she would like to continue wrestling at the college level if she can get an opportunity at one of the few schools that offer it.

"It is definitely something I want to explore," she said. "I've looked into some colleges that have girls wrestling. It's fun."

Chelsea Chavez works out with Isaac Guerrero of the boys team to stay in shape.

Paloma Valley High Standouts Honored as Athletes of Week

Back row, from left: Jose Sandoval, Ashlynn Cota, Izaiah Cameron. Front row: Bailey Calhoun, Adam Andrade.

Five Paloma Valley High School athletes who just completed their winter sports seasons have been honored for their recent accomplishments with Athlete of the Week awards from Menifee 24/7.

Junior Izaiah Cameron was a standout player for the boys basketball team, leading the way from his guard and forward position. He made the game-winning shot in a 57-55 victory over Temescal Canyon earlier this month and helped the Wildcats make the CIF playoffs, where they lost in the first round.

"I got the ball from Alex Patterson and just saw a wide-open lane," Cameron said about the overtime win at Temescal Canyon. "I drove in and laid it up for the win.

"We did good this year, but sometimes we were weren't consistent enough. To be more of a leader next year, I just need to work hard on my game over summer."

Junior center midfielder Bailey Calhoun was one of the most consistent players on the girls soccer team, which finished the season with an impressive record of 16-3-6. The Wildcats were undefeated in Sunbelt League play and made it to the second round of the CIF playoffs before losing 1-0 to Sage Hill.

"It's chemistry," Calhoun said about the key to the team's success. "A lot of it is how we bond off the field. It translates onto the field. And everybody works really hard."

Calhoun's coach, Marie Dillon, had high praise for her star player.

"Bailey is an important part of our attack and is considered one of our top playmakers," she said. "She is one of the most competitive players I have ever coached."

Senior Ashlynn Cota was the leading scorer on the girls basketball team with an average of 14.3 points per game. She played three years on the varsity team and "has an amazing ability to shoot," said her coach, Romeo Galbreath.

Cota's season ended last week in a 69-62 loss to Chino in the playoffs, but she looks forward to a college career. She has already been accepted by Cal State East Bay and is also considering Whittier College.

"I feel like we improved from last season," she said. "We had the same exact team. I feel like we could've had it in the playoffs, but it just didn't work out."

Wrestler Adam Andrade recently won the Sunbelt League championship at 120 pounds, beating highly regarded Tod Stafford of Temescal Canyon to reach the finals, where he won with a pin. He didn't qualify for this weekend's Masters Meet, however, because he didn't make weight at the CIF finals.

"It's heartbreaking because of all the hard work over the year," said the junior. "Tod Stafford went to Masters. Knowing I beat him shows me I could've gone to Masters. I just see this as an experience to use in doing better next year."

Senior captain Jose Sandoval missed six games with a concussion but fought back to be a key player for the boys soccer team. He scored a goal in each of the last four games he played.

"Jose has been a leader on and off the field, always playing to the highest standards of excellence, sportsmanship and leadership," said his coach, Ramon Benz.

Menifee Sports Up Close: You're Never Too Young ...

They definitely start them out young these days. Here is 2-year-old Brycen Jax Livingston striking a mean pose in his Itty Bitty Baseball uniform.

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

Menifee Sports Up Close: Fun With the Filly Tigers

Austin Rachman had fun playing for the Filly Tigers of Menifee Pony Baseball last weekend. After lining up with his teammates (center) for Opening Day, he got to slide into home during the game.

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

Menifee Sports Up Close: Giving Their All for the Cardinals

Members of the Cardinals had a good time in their season opener last Saturday. Whether it was on the pitching mound or sliding into home, everyone gave their all.

Don't forget to provide names of players when you can!

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

If you would like to order a glossy print of any published youth sports photo and text with the Menifee 24/7 logo, suitable for framing, email menifee247sports@gmail.com with the words "print order" in the subject line. We will contact you with the details. You can show others how your son or daughter was published online!

 

Menifee Sports Up Close: All Smiles on Opening Day

Proud grandpa Kerry Stephenson sent us this picture of his grandson Lincoln Stephenson, shown at Menifee Pony Baseball Opening Day last Saturday. This was his first game playing in the Shetland Division on the Red Sox.

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

Menifee Sports Up Close: Have Elite Players, Will Travel

Menifee Elite is a new 10u travel team in Menifee Pony Baseball's Alliance Division. This photo was taken just before their game on opening day Saturday at Wheatfield Park.

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

'Put Me in, Coach, I'm Ready to Play ... Today'

Alexandra Helton, who is almost 5, couldn't wait to get on the field for the Shetland Red Sox in Menifee Pony Baseball last Saturday. Play ball, Alexandra!

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

Menifee Sports Up Close: Big Day for the Little Giants

No one had more fun at Menifee Pony Baseball Opening Day than the members of the Giants in the Filly Division, the youngest age group of all. They held out through the introductions and had a ball during their game as well.

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

If you would like to order a glossy print of any published youth sports photo and text with the Menifee 24/7 logo, suitable for framing, email menifee247sports@gmail.com with the words "print order" in the subject line. We will contact you with the details. You can show others how your son or daughter was published online!

Menifee Sports Up Close: Score One for the Girls

Faith Joseph, age 6, showed her hitting form last weekend for the Shetland Division Dodgers of Menifee Pony Baseball.

 Displaying a disciplined stance, she then took off after making contact with the ball. Score one for the girls!

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

If you would like to order a glossy print of any published youth sports photo and text with the Menifee 24/7 logo, suitable for framing, email menifee247sports@gmail.com with the words "print order" in the subject line. We will contact you with the details. You can show others how your son or daughter was published online!

Menifee Sports Up Close: Brother Act Set for First Games

Brothers Maddin (Shetland) and Mathias (Filly) Galanos took a moment to pose for the cameras before their first games last Saturday on Menifee Pony Baseball's Opening Day. Looking good, boys!

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

If you would like to order a glossy print of any published youth sports photo and text with the Menifee 24/7 logo, suitable for framing, email menifee247sports@gmail.com with the words "print order" in the subject line. We will contact you with the details. You can show others how your son or daughter was published online!

Menifee Sports Up Close: Pony 7u Series Team Honored

The Menifee Pony Baseball 7-under team that made it to the World Series last season was presented a banner in honor of that accomplishment at Opening Day ceremonies on Saturday. Congratulations, guys!

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

If you would like to order a glossy print of any published youth sports photo and text with the Menifee 24/7 logo, suitable for framing, email menifee247sports@gmail.com with the words "print order" in the subject line. We will contact you with the details. You can show others how your son or daughter was published online!

Menifee Sports Up Close: Boy, That Was a Long Morning

Jacob Flores was all worn out after the Menifee Pony Baseball Opening Day ceremonies on Saturday. We're sure he'll be rested up for the next game

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

If you would like to order a glossy print of any published youth sports photo and text with the Menifee 24/7 logo, suitable for framing, email menifee247sports@gmail.com with the words "print order" in the subject line. We will contact you with the details. You can show others how your son or daughter was published online!

Menifee Sports Up Close: 'Best Buds' Enjoy Pony Opening Day

Matthew Narcisse (Padres) and Landan Spears (Pirates), are BBF's (best buds forever). They played each other on opening day in the Pinto Division Saturday and had an amazing time!!

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to accept highlights and photos from local youth leagues for publication on our website and Facebook page. Submissions should be emailed to menifee247sports@gmail.com.

Wildcats Girls Basketball Team Falls in CIF Playoff Opener

Alize Hancock scored 22 points and the Paloma Valley High School girls basketball team led 18-8 early in the game, but the Wildcats lost a 69-62 decision to Chino Saturday in the first round of the CIF playoffs.

Ashlynn Cota contributed 16 points and Claire Garland 11 rebounds for the Wildcats. Regina Sheffield finished with four assists and four steals as Paloma Valley's season came to an end.

Foul trouble hurt Paloma in the second quarter, but the Wildcats rallied to take a 61-60 lead before falling behind again in the final minutes.

Paloma Valley Cruises into Second Round of Soccer Playoffs

Melody Gonzalez leaps over an opponent for a header in Friday's playoff victory for Paloma Valley High School.

Amanda Gomez, Melody Gonzalez and Bailey Calhoun scored goals to lead the Paloma Valley High School girls soccer team to a 3-0 victory over Colton Friday in the first round of the CIF Division 5 playoffs.

Chloe Atkins had two assists and Gomez had one for the Wildcats, while goalkeeper Christina Rodriguez had to make just two saves.

Paloma Valley will play at Sage Hill High School in Newport Beach in the second round on Wednesday.

Lauren Perez moves the ball forward in Paloma Valley's playoff game.

League Champion Wildcats Set to Face Colton in CIF Playoffs

Chloe Atkins (right) is the leader of an offense that helped Paloma Valley win the league title.

By Patricia Sanchez

After completing an undefeated Sunbelt League season, the Paloma Valley High School girls soccer players have their minds set on the California Interscholastic Federation tournament.

The team has been working hard all year, and according to players and Coach Marie Dillon, the Wildcats have the skill and mindset to do well in the CIF playoffs, which start this week. The Wildcats will be at home on Friday against Colton, the No. 3 team from the Sunkist League.

“The biggest difference from this year to last year is leadership and maturity,” said Dillon. “The girls have worked hard and they decided to make it [the soccer season] better.”

Dillon has coached the girls soccer team at Paloma Valley for seven years and said she feels like this year the girls have put in a lot of effort into making the team better. The Wildcats have an overall record of 16-2-6 and a league record of 7-0-3.

Through injuries and difficult games, the team has pushed through the season and worked hard to achieve an outstanding record. During their last game against Temescal Valley (a 2-0 win), Dillon said the girls not only beat the other team, but they also overcame their nerves.

“The girls were a bit nervous in their last game,” said Dillon. “We made it a goal, though, to be undefeated this season and they’re confident they can make it to the [CIF] finals and win it. We really believe that no team has worked harder than us.”

Teammates Jackie Armijo and Chloe Atkins said that the Wildcats have felt more like a team this year than last year. Armijo is the Wildcats' central defender and Atkins is one of the team’s forwards. She has been one of the team’s leading scorers for the season.

“We definitely have grown from last year to this,” said Armijo. “I’m just really proud of our team. We just have to keep working.”

“We connect a lot on the field,” said Atkins, “which is something we didn’t do last year.”

Armijo said that team chemistry has been an important factor in the team’s success this year.

“You can have a really skilled team,” said Armijo. “But if you don’t have the bonding aspect, it doesn’t go well on the field.”

The Wildcats have team dinners once a week and usually have sleepovers once a month to help the girls bond and spend time with one another off the field. Having a team that gets along well helps them play better and work better together, said Armijo and Atkins.

Both players said that in addition to having a good team that works well together, their coach has had a lot to do with this year’s success.

“A lot of coaches just focus on skills and endurance,” said Armijo. “But she’s very motivating and makes us want to be here.”

“That’s true,” said Atkins. “She also helps us bond a lot.”

Dillon and her players look forward to the competition and are confident about their chances of winning.

“We want to win CIF and we believe we can do it," Dillon said. "We’re going to go out and focus on playing as a team and winning will take care of itself.”

Senior Jackie Armijo is the anchor of a strong Paloma Valley defense.

Paloma Valley Boys Soccer Team Faces St. Anthony in Playoffs

The Paloma Valley High School boys soccer team earned an at-large berth into the CIF playoffs and will play a wild-card game at St. Anthony High in Long Beach on Tuesday.

The Wildcats, led by high-scoring forward RJ Benz, finished the regular season with a 9-9-3 overall record. They finished Sunbelt League play with a 4-4-2 record after tying Temescal Canyon 2-2 on Feb. 12.

Benz has scored 18 goals this season, breaking the school single-season record. Jose Sandoval is the team's next highest scorer with seven goals.

St. Anthony is the No. 3 team from the Santa Fe League. The Saints finished league play 4-4 but were an impressive 14-5-2 overall.

Paloma Valley Girls Will Open Basketball Playoffs at Chino

The Paloma Valley High School girls basketball team earned the No. 3 CIF playoff berth from the Sunbelt League and will open the 1A Division playoffs at Chino next Saturday, Feb. 22.

According to the CIF pairings released on Sunday, Paloma Valley will be facing the Mt. Baldy League champions, who have a 21-3 overall record. Chino was 11-0 in league play and will have the home court advantage in what should be a strong challenge for the Wildcats.

Paloma Valley finished the regular season with a 15-12 record, 6-5 in the Sunbelt League. In their final league game, the Wildcats defeated Elsinore, 49-42. Paloma is led in scoring by Ashlynn Cota (14.2 ppg), Alize Hancock (13.8) and Regina Sheffield (12.1).

The complete pairings for all girls and boys basketball divisions are available on the CIF's website, www.cifss.org.

Paloma Valley Girls Soccer Team Wraps Up Sunbelt League Title

Jackie Armijo and Bailey Calhoun scored goals and goalkeeper Christina Rodriguez recorded a shutout Wednesday to lead the Paloma Valley High School girls soccer team to a 2-0 victory over Temescal Canyon.

The win in the team's regular-season finale improved Paloma's record to 7-0-3 in Sunbelt League play and 16-2-6 overall. The Wildcats are the Sunbelt League champions entering the CIF playoffs, which begin next week.

First-round matchups will be announced on Monday. Chloe Atkins and Jada Brown assisted on the goals.

Alonzo, Guerrero Named Heritage High Athletes of the Month

Kaelea Alonzo and Isaac Guerrero receive their Athlete of the Month awards from Cynthia Nemelka of REMAX/Diamond Realty.

Heritage High School is well represented by two standout athletes who were recently selected as the Menifee 24/7 Athletes of the Month, sponsored by REMAX/Diamond Realty.

Cynthia Nemelka of REMAX presented certificates and gift cards to wrestler Isaac Guerrero and basketball player Kaelea Alonzo in recognition of their efforts in January.

Guerrero is headed to the CIF Finals in wrestling later this month after placing second in the Sunbelt League finals at 115 pounds. The junior is in only his second year of wrestling but is a team captain and inspirational leader.

He and his teammates are more determined than ever to make good use of the extra time they have before competing at the next level.

"We go to different schools to get used to different people as we get ready for CIF," he said. "We'll train even harder the next couple weeks.

"The key for me is practicing hard every time. You always have to give 100 percent."

Alonzo is in her third year as a varsity player for the girls basketball team. The senior averages 12.8 points and 4.8 rebounds per game as a small forward and shooting guard.

Leadership from her captain's role has been a key in the success of the Patriots this year.

"We have four captains, and I consider myself a leader," she said. "I've had a lot of fun being a captain and it's taught me a lot too."

Alonzo, who also plays volleyball, is hoping to get a scholarship to a school in northern California.

Mahilum, Armijo Named Paloma Valley Athletes of the Month

Lysander Mahilum and Jackie Armijo receive their Athlete of the Month awards from Cynthia Nemelka of REMAX/Diamond Realty.

Wrestler Lysander Mahilum and soccer standout Jackie Armijo were honored this week as the January Menifee 24/7 Athletes of the Month from Paloma Valley High School.

The monthly award is sponsored by REMAX/Diamond Realty. Cynthia Nemelka presented the awards.

Mahilum, just a sophomore, won the 108-pound weight class at the Sunbelt League finals Feb. 1. He is one of several wrestlers who will represent the Wildcats in the CIF Divisional Finals on Feb. 22.

Recently, he placed a strong second in the prestigious Raul Huerta Memorial Tournament.

"For the last week, we've just been focusing on training and team bonding," Mahilum said about the break between league finals and CIF finals. "We had a pancake eating contest, we had a pizza eating contest. Everyone's trying to get big, then we'll get small again to make weight.

"The next two weeks will be the grind. It's intense dieting and working out. I'm looking to get first or second at CIF and top eight at Masters. My end season goal is to place at state."

Armijo is a senior and one of the leaders of the Wildcats girls soccer team, which is heading to the CIF playoffs as league champions. She began the season as a defender but also has taken advantage of scoring oppotunities, contributing goals from the midfield position.

"I'm really confident we can make it father in the playoffs this year," said Armijo, whose team won league for the first time since 2008.

College programs have shown an interest in Armijo, who is prepared to continue her career at the next level.

Paloma Valley Closes in On Unbeaten League Season

Paloma Valley's Bailey Calhoun brings the upfield against a Heritage High defender last Friday.

The Paloma High School girls soccer team is closing in on an unbeaten Sunbelt League season.

The Wildcats tied Lakeside 1-1 Monday afternoon, improving their league record to 7-0-3. That followed an impressive 8-1 victory over Heritage last Friday. The team's final regular-season is at Temescal Canyon on Wednesday before heading into the CIF playoffs.

In the win over Heritage, Chloe Atkins scored three goals, while Melody Gonzalez and Amanda Gomez had two each. Miriam Mota also scored for the Wildcats.

Ahlquist, Zinter Named Santa Rosa Athletes of the Month

Santa Rosa Academy Athletes of the Month Paige Ahlquist and Jordan Zinter accept their award from Cynthia Nemelka of REMAX/Diamond Realty.

Soccer standout Paige Ahlquist and basketball star Jordan Zinter of Santa Rosa Academy were honored this week as the Menifee 24/7 Athletes of the Month, sponsored by REMAX/Diamond Realty.

Ahlquist is just a freshman, but she proved to be a team leader from her defensive position. She has played soccer since age 7 and gained experience on the girls soccer team in middle school. This is the first season Santa Rosa has fielded an all-girls high school soccer team.

"The season was good," Paige said. "We didn't do outstanding or anything terrible. We were about even in wins and losses. I'm surprised to receive this award because we have a lot of really good players."

Paige said her philosophy on success on the soccer field is simple: Stay focused at all times.

"Keep your eye on the field and the ball," she said. "Watch out for the good players. Never dive in for the ball because they can cut around you. Keep an eye on their eyes and their feet for an indication of where they're going to go."

She hopes to get a job in the medical field.

Sophomore point guard Jordan Zinter is the leading scorer on the boys basketball team at 15 points per game. He has played a key role for the team, which is in only its second season of actual competition. The coach is Jordan's father, James Zinter.

"At the beginning of he season, we played harder teams than we usually do, so we didn't do too great," Jordan said. "We aren't living up to our potential. But this is only our second season.

"My dad's been coaching for 20-some years. He has us a lot more organized."

The Rangers play their home games at the Valley-Wide Recreation Center at Wheatfield Park. Plans call for the construction of a gym on the new Santa Rosa campus, but that phase has not yet begun.

Paige and Jordan received a certificate from Menifee 24/7 and a gift card courtesy of the sponsor, REMAX/Diamond Realty.

Heritage Athletes of Week: Heldoorn, Partida, Pace, Paris

From left: Jordan Heldoorn, Francis Partida, Andrea Pace. Not pictured: Shannon Paris.

The Heritage High School Menifee 24/7 Athletes of the Week include two standout soccer players, a basketball player and a championship wrestler.

Jordan Heldoorn is just a sophomore but has started the last several games for the boys soccer team, which is rebuilding for a run at the league title next year. Heldoorn is one of several underclassmen to receive additional playing time. He is scheduled to start the remainder of the games in goal.

"This year is kind of rebuilding," Heldoorn said. "We only have four seniors on the team. Coach is calling up players from the JV team to help out. Next year, I think we're going to have a pretty good chance."

Francis Partida has made an impact for the girls soccer team, scoring goals against Elsinore and Perris in recent games. The team has struggled this season but is poised for a strong finish.

"We're in the running for a wild card into the playoffs," said Partida, a center forward. "Beyond this year, I hope to continue playing in college."

Andrea Pace is a junior power forward for the girls basketball team. She averages 7 rebounds per game. This is her first season at Heritage after playing two varsity seasons in Georgia. She also competes in volleyball and track.

"Our season started off rocky, but it's getting better," Pace said. "We have a chance to finish in third place."

Shannon Paris won the Sunbelt League wrestling championship at 154 pounds last weekend. He is one of six Heritage wrestlers headed to the CIF finals on Feb. 21.

Paloma Girls Soccer Team Remains Unbeaten in League, 5-0

Melody Gonzalez scored two goals to spark the offense and goalkeeper Christina Rodriguez recorded a shutout Wednesday as the Paloma High School girls soccer team defeated Perris, 5-0.

Jackie Armijo, Chloe Atkins and Miriam Mota also scored goals for the Wildcats, who are 5-0-2 in Sunbelt League play and 14-2-5 overall.

Bailey Calhoun picked up two assists. Vanessa Banuelos and Lauren Perez also assisted on goals.

14 Local Wrestlers Qualify for CIF Divisional Finals

Eight wrestlers from Paloma Valley High School and six from Heritage High placed in the top three of their weight class Feb. 1 at the Sunbelt League finals, thus qualifying for the CIF Inland Division finals at Temecula Valley High Feb. 21.

Paloma Valley's Jeremiah Vonmoos won the 128-pound division for the second straight year. Lysander Mahilum (108 pounds) and Adam Andrade (122) were also champions in their division.

Shannon Paris of Heritage was champion of the 154-pound division.

Other CIF qualifiers for Paloma Valley are:
Hector Martinez (134)
Nick Andrade (140)
Anthony Adcock (184)
David Guillen (197)
Jonathan Decker (222)

Other CIF qualifiers for Heritage are:
Isaac Guerrero (115)
Mario Hernandez (140)
Jonathan Ballasteros (147)
Izzy Long (162)
Gabriel Moreno (197)

Nine Paloma Valley Athletes Sign National Letters of Intent

Paloma Valley High athletic director Michael Pfeiffer introduces nine athletes who signed letters of intent today.

Paloma Valley High School introduced one of its biggest ever signing classes today when nine Wildcat athletes signed national letters of intent with colleges across the country.

Athletic director Michael Pfeiffer and principal Don Williamson congratulated the athletes, who received a round of applause before a large crowd of students, parents and friends in the school theater.

The athletes who signed letters are:

Baseball:
Max Sias -- Arizona Christian University
Cody McCoy -- Goshen College (Indiana)
Bryce Macy -- California Baptist University

Softball:
Kailee Smith -- Drake University (Iowa)
Holly Oyhenart -- Christian Brothers University (Tennessee)
Jennifer Callais -- Hesston College (Kansas)

Cross country/track:
Zack Castor -- Arizona Christian University
Franco Portillo -- Viterbo University (Wisconsin)
Dazhana Jackson -- Kentucky Wesleyan College

Spring sports athletes are permitted to sign letters of intent before their senior year of high school competition.

Athletic director Michael Pfeiffer and principal Don Williamson stand alongside the honored athletes.

Four Heritage High Football Standouts Sign College Letters

From left: Evan Rodriguez, Matthew Palmer and Limihai Hifo are joined by family members in signing football letters of intent. Not pictured: Sione Takitaki.

Four star players from Heritage High School's 2013 CIF championship football team signed national letters of intent today to continue their careers in college.

CIF Offensive Player of the Year Limihai Hifo signed a commitment to attend San Jose State, while the CIF Defensive Player of the Year, Sione Takitaki, signed to attend BYU. Defensive back Matthew Palmer and tight end Evan Rodriguez signed to attend Azusa Pacific University.

Before a gym full of boisterous students during the announcement assembly, athletic director David Drake spoke of the legacy these players are helping to build at Heritage.

"They have brought a glory to this school that is unheard of," Drake said. "They are leaving a legacy for those of you who are back next year ... they have set a precedent for all of you to live up to. Every athlete in this school from here on out will hear the stories of the 2013 football team."

Under the guidance of CIF Coach of the Year Kraig Broach, the Patriots compiled a 13-1 record last fall, beating Rancho Verde for the CIF title. Hifo rushed for 2,103 yards and 21 touchdowns in earning a scholarship to San Jose State, where he has been told he might start at running back right away.

"They had two running backs that got hurt last year and they played two slot receivers who had never played running back ever," Hifo said. "Hopefully this year, I'll get to take the spot.

"San Jose gave me the chance while I had a broken foot (last off-season). It's just another blessing. They've been doing really good. The program is on the way up and I'm glad to be a part of that."

Takitaki wasn't present for the assembly but showed up later to sign his letter of intent with BYU. He led the team with 81 total tackles from his linebacker position. Takitaki also played an important role on offense, carrying the ball for the Patriots.

Palmer ranked in the top five in the nation in interceptions on the way to All-CIF honors. The 6-foot-3, 200-pound defensive back picked off 10 passes -- most of those during the playoffs to help seal postseason victories. He will join Rodriguez at Azusa Pacific.

"It's been hectic and exciting at the same time," Palmer said. "I wouldn't be here without my teammates and my coaches."

Rodriguez, also an All-CIF honoree, made a strong impact at tight end after switching positions from quarterback a year ago.

"It's gonna be a cool experience, being in college together," Rodriguez said about joining Palmer at APU. "We'll always be CIF champs."

"It's quite a day," Broach said. "It makes me proud to think about where these guys came from and what they did."

Five Paloma Valley Stars Named Athletes of the Week

From left: RJ Benz, Christina Rodriguez, River Recatto.

Two talented soccer players, two basketball players and a wrestler were honored today as the Menifee 24/7 Athletes of the Week from Paloma Valley High School.

Although he is only a sophomore, forward River Recatto is a team leader for the boys basketball team. "He leads by example on and off the court," said his coach, Michael Pfeiffer.

"I try to be as much of a leader as I can and motivate us to do our best," said Recatto, whose team is winless in league play. "We have four sophomores on our team, so the future is bright, but it's been a tough season. We've had a lot of problems with injuries. We just try to pull together and do the best we can."

RJ Benz is a repeat winner of the award because of his continued strong play for the boys soccer team, which improved to 3-2-1 in the Sunbelt League last week with a 5-0 win over Elsinore. Benz's two goals in that game gives him a total of 15 this season -- just two short of the school single-season record with five games left in the regular season.

"RJ is often marked and double teamed, yet he finds a way to make a play by scoring or setting up teammates," said Ramon Benz, his father and coach. "Often you hear coaches on the opposing team calling out, 'Watch Number 21,' always aware of RJ's location on free kicks or throw-ins."

RJ is used to the challenge and often rises to the occasion.

"It doesn't bug me, but it's harder to play when there's constantly two guys on me," he said. "But it does open up opportunities for other guys on the team."

Junior goalkeeper Christina Rodriguez is one of the top players on the girls soccer team, which is 12-2-5 overall and 4-0-2 in league play, good for first place.

"Christina is one of the best goalkeepers around and I strongly feel there is no one better than her," said her coach, Marie Dillon. "She is very smart and loves the game. What I love about Christina the most is her passion. Being a former goalkeeper myself, I can really appreciate what she brings to the team."

Rodriguez first tried playing in goal at age 8 and settled on the position full-time when she was 12.

"I like playing goal because it's a different position from everything else," she said. "There's more pressure involved. I put a lot of pressure on myself to be the best. I want to do everything I can for my teammates."

Sophomore wrestler Lysander Mahilum recently made a strong showing in the finals of the Raul Huerta Memorial Tournament at Canyon Springs High School, helping the Wildcats place 13th out of 62 schools. Last weekend, he won the Sunbelt League championship at 106 pounds and will compete in the CIF divisional finals this weekend.

"I wrestled a guy who is ranked second in the state," Mahilum said about the Raul Huerta Tournament. "He thought it was going to be a blowout. He walked off mad. Although he won, it was an upset bccause I made it so close."

Mahilum has his sights set on postseason competition. If he places in the top five at the CIF finals, he will advance to the Masters meet in an attempt to qualify for the state meet.

Junior post player and guard Claire Garland is the girls basketball team's leading rebounder with a 6.8 average. Even though she is often at a height disadvantage at 5-foot-6, Garland often dominates under the basket.

"Claire has led the team in rebounds all season," said her coach, Romeo Galbreath. "She's not afraid to challenge other teams' height, even when she may be at a disadvantage. She has over 140 rebounds so far and her drive makes her indispensable to the team."

"I guess I jump pretty high, but it's not just your height," she said. "You have to box out."

Paloma Valley honorees Claire Garland and Lysander Mahilum.

Washington Scores Twice in Heritage's 3-0 Soccer Win

Alana Washington scored two goals and Francis Partida added another Friday as the Heritage High School girls soccer team scored a 3-0 victory over Perris.

The win improved the Patriots' Sunbelt League record to 2-3-1. Perris fell to 0-6.

Breanna Roark, Kristen Briseno and Alyssa Briseno assisted on the goals. The shutout was anchored on defense by Presley Scharer and Sierra Hoesman in goal.

Heritage High Athletes of Week: Roberts, Gutierrez, Nevarez

From left: Amber Roberts, Raul Gutierrez, Adriana Nevarez.

Three standout players for Heritage High School winter sports teams were recently honored as the Menifee 24/7 Athletes of the Week.

Senior goalkeeper Amber Roberts recorded her first shutout of the season in a victory over Lakeside for the girls soccer team last week. She has played goal for nine years, since her early days in youth soccer.

"I was one of the tallest girls," Roberts said with a smile about her selection as a goalkeeper early in her career. "They just looked at me and said, 'You're in the box.' I quickly learned not to be afraid of the ball."

Roberts said she has been scouted by the coaches at Mt. San Jacinto College and also is considering Crafton Hills College in northern California. She plans to major in animal science.

Sophomore Raul Gutierrez has done an admirable job filling in for injured seniors on the boys soccer team. He has shown tremendous potential at midfielder for the Patriots, who are still looking for their first Sunbelt League win.

"We've never been to the playoffs, so that's a goal for us," Gutierrez said. "The players are good communicators and we pass the ball around pretty well."

Senior point guard Adriana Nevarez has spent four years on the girls basketball team, which has a goal of advancing further than last year's first-round loss in the CIF playoffs. The Patriots have never gotten out of the first round in that sport.

"My role is to make sure everything is in place," said Nevarez, a team captain, who leads the team with an average of six assists per game.

Wildcats Girls Soccer Team Scores a League Shutout

Defender Jada Brown helped preserve a 2-0 shutout over Elsinore on Friday.

Chloe Atkins scored both goals and the defenders assisted goalkeeper Christina Rodriguez in preserving a shutout Friday as the Paloma Valley High School girls soccer team beat Elsinore, 2-0.

The Wildcats improved their Sunbelt League record to 4-0-2 and their overall mark to 13-2-5. Bailey Calhoun and Melody Gonzalez assisted in the goals. Midfielder Melissa Cook (left) helped Paloma use ball control to dominate play.