By Doug Spoon, Editor
Menifee 24/7 is pleased to honor Athletes of the Month for October at Liberty High School. Honorees were selected by the coaches of their respective sports and were recognized with a presentation of certificates and photo opportunity on campus.
Freshman girls cross country runner Mikayla Caisaguano has emerged as one of the team’s rising stars, showing steady improvement throughout the season,” said coach Davina Ellis. “Known for her grit and consistency, Caisaguano has dropped time in every race over the past month, showcasing remarkable growth as a young competitor.
“She delivered a standout performance at the league finals, placing eighth overall and earning All-Conference honors. Her finish played a key role in securing the team’s fourth straight league title. Caisaguano is determined, dependable, and relentlessly positive, qualities that have made her an immediate asset to the program. Just a freshman, she has already become an invaluable piece of the team and a clear example of the impact hard work can make.”
Senior Carson Rawls has been a steady force for the boys cross country team throughout the season, delivering reliable and competitive performances week after week,” said coach Andrew Ellis. “At the league finals, Rawls led Liberty with a strong showing, finishing ninth overall and earning both All-League and All-Conference honors for his efforts.
“Coaches credit Rawls’ dedication, consistency, and leadership, both on and off the course, as vital to the team’s success. His commitment to excellence and his ability to anchor the squad in key moments make him a standout selection for Athlete of the Month.”
Junior water polo team captain Chase Mankin has quickly become a driving force within the program.
“His dedication, leadership, and competitive spirit set the tone for the team both in and out of the pool,” said coach Hailey Badham. “Chase leads with confidence and composure, consistently motivating his teammates to push themselves and work together toward a common goal. His determination to improve each day and his commitment to the success of the team exemplify what it means to be a true leader. He approaches every challenge with focus and a team-first mindset.
“As a captain and a teammate, Chase continues to shape the standard of excellence and effort within the program. His leadership promises a strong future for Liberty water polo and sets the foundation for continued success.
Kaiya Kirk has been a four-year starter for the girls golf team and has improved every year, said coach Travis Hodge. She was a key contributor to the last four league championships and played a key leadership role this past season.
Tennis player Arianna Castle “is the type of player every coach dreams of having,” said coach Tyler Baca. “She is coachable, determined, and an incredible human being both on and off the court. When she began her high school career, she started like any other softball player, hitting home runs over the fence. But she quickly transformed into one of the hardest-working athletes I’ve ever coached, spending extra hours at the park practicing and hitting back balls that I made nearly impossible to return.
“With an outstanding 28–1 record in Ivy League play alongside her doubles partner Hailey Spaulding, the two earned Ivy League MVP for doubles — a unanimous decision by every coach in the league. Castle came to every match with one goal in mind: to win for her team. Her drive and competitive spirit helped lead us to an Ivy League Championship, and her game play was a huge reason we accomplished that goal.
“Tennis truly runs in her blood. Her brother was part of my CIF championship team, and her sister was my wife’s doubles partner. Arianna has lived up to every expectation and has excelled in one of the toughest leagues around. Without a doubt, she’s the best ‘Castle’ tennis player I’ve had the privilege of being around. (Just don’t tell your brother and sister that, haha!) Sad you are a senior this year, but grateful to be your coach.”
Parris Peacock was a team captain of the football team and a first-team All-Ivy League running back. He holds the school record for most rushing touchdowns in a season as well as being Liberty’s all-time leading rusher in a season. Having a 4.0 GPA, Parris leads by example not only on the field, but off the field as well, said coach Adam Contreras.
