Santa Rosa Academy standouts honored as Athletes of Month

By Doug Spoon, Editor

Menifee 24/7 is pleased to honor Athletes of the Month for the months of December and January at Santa Rosa Academy. Honorees were selected by the coaches of their respective sports and were recognized with a presentation of certificates and photo opportunity on campus.

Adison Strauser was recognized for her performance with the girls soccer team. “She has been able to get involved in the attack a lot more this year and it’s been a lot of fun watching her get shots on goal and getting assists,” said her coach.

Wrestler Brenden Quesada placed second at the John Glenn Tournament, one of the toughest tournaments in the CIF Southern Section. He has lost only twice this season.

Summer Grant of the girls wrestling team has placed in every tournament this season. She placed second in the Lady’s Tournament of Champions and fifth in the Girls Riverside County Tournament – the toughest girls tournament in the CIF Southern Section.

Girls basketball player Madison Flores “has played some really good basketball,” said coach Walter Garland. “She is reliable to her coaches, teammates, and to the program. She plays with a lot of passion. She is great on defense with multiple block shots every game and over 10 rebounds a game, giving her second and third chances to score. Madison has played just about every minute of every game this season. I am very proud of her.”

Austyn Hopkins of the boys basketball team continues to showcase why he’s a cornerstone of the team.

“In a breakout December, Austyn stepped up in critical moments, especially when the team was short-handed,” said team Tom Crunk. “His exceptional performances during the So Cal Tournament and the Loma Linda Academy Holiday Classic earned him first team All-American honors, a testament to his skill and resilience against tough competition.

“Averaging nearly a double-double per game, Austyn has been a consistent force on both ends of the court. His impressive stat line of 16 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3.4 steals per game highlights his versatility and ability to influence every aspect of the game. As the season moves forward, Austyn remains a dominant presence for Santa Rosa Academy, solidifying his reputation as both a skilled athlete and a dependable leader. Congratulations, Austyn, on an outstanding month!”

Jesus “Omar” Gonzalez of the boys soccer team “has been a stud on the backline and has shored up our defense,” said his coach. “His play has been tremendous as he continues to elevate his intensity. He has had the coaches in awe as he makes save after save on what would appear to be breakaways for the other team. He has been an inspiration both on and off the field and has been a true person of character. Omar exemplifies what it is to be a true Ranger and will definitely go on to do great things in the future.”