By Doug Spoon, Editor
Menifee 24/7 is pleased to honor Athletes of the Month for October at Paloma Valley 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.
Lauren Kendall of the girls volleyball team “is our kill and ace leader,” said coach Stephen Kaas. “She is in her third year on varsity. She has been passing and playing great defense all year. She had big matches in both our playoff games.”
Boys cross country runner Erick Urquieta “had a great month of racing,” said coach Joe Ellet. “He ran an impressive 16:33 at the Bell Gardens Invitational. Throughout the season, he has been our No. 2 runner.”
Girls cross country runner Yazlin Orozco Alejandre “is a freshman who has become our No. 1 runner,” said coach Rebekkah Ouk. “She ran all-time top 5 for Paloma runners at the Kit Carson Invitational with a time of 18:45 on the challenging 2.75-mile course.”
Football player Isaac Navarro “stepped in at quarterback in our last four games and did an amazing job,” said coach Juan Merida. “In four games, Isaac threw for 1,289 yards and 16 TDs, highlighted by his 7-TD performance vs. Vista Del Lago.”
Girls tennis doubles partners Juliana Gomez and Savanna Orlowski had a record of 39-17 on the season. They had eight sweeps and were vital to the team’s overall success.
Andrea Zamora is a senior on the girls golf team and is being selected for her dedication, leadership, and positive attitude, said her coach.
“Known as the team’s hype person, Andy brings energy and encouragement to every match, cheering for her teammates and even celebrating great shots from players on opposing teams,” the coach said. “She has shown strong commitment by attending nearly every practice and match while constantly striving to improve her game. Andy set a goal to qualify for preliminary finals and came impressively close, finishing just behind the top contenders. Her determination and drive throughout the season showed her commitment to constant improvement.
“In addition to her strong play, Andy has helped grow the golf program by recruiting new players and creating a welcoming team environment.”
Water polo player Noah Avenetti “sets the standard for dedication and teamwork,” said coach Mikaylah Harder. “He shows up every day ready to work hard and push himself and his teammates to improve. As a leader in and out of the pool, Noah keeps the team focused and motivated. His strong swimming skills and sharp shooting from the 4-5 side make him a key contributor to the team’s success.”
