Menifee 24/7 is pleased to honor Athletes of the Month for January at Paloma Valley 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.
Girls water polo player Kaylee Gutierrez has been recognized for her efforts.
“Kaylee has led our team in the pool this season,” said coach Joe Ellet. “She has set two Paloma Valley season records with her 80 goals and 121 steals. She also leads the team in assists and field blocks. She is a tremendous player and a great teammate.”
Wrestler Brandon Owen won the Redondo Union tournament, earned Outstanding Wrestler honors, and won the Ivy League championship for a second time.
Jiana Rivera of the girls wrestling team made the finals of the prestigious Ayala Invitational, along with winning the Ivy League championship for a second time.
Ethan Trepanier is honored for his performances with the boys soccer team.
“Ethan, now in his junior year, has been a starter in our program since his freshman season,” said coach Carlos Duran. “His year-round commitment to the team has been exceptional and truly reflects his character. Both on and off the pitch, Ethan’s impact is undeniable. As one of our team captains, his leadership has been remarkable. He leads by example through his work ethic, discipline, and consistency, setting the standard for those around him.
“Ethan is the type of leader who instills confidence in his teammates in big moments during games and throughout the grind of the season. His leadership goes far beyond scoring goals or being a defensive staple for our program. He elevates everyone around him and represents what our program stands for every single day.”
Masen Ortega represents the boys basketball team this month.
“Masen brings a toughness and natural leadership to our program,” said coach Derrick O’Neal. “Besides his ability to shoot, it’s the things he does off the court that make the huge impact. As a 4.0 GPA student, Masen is the model student-athlete and helped Paloma Valley to place second in league and make the playoffs for the second consecutive year. When we think of ROAR, Masen is the ideal Wildcat.”
Luna Diaz leads the girls soccer team with 10 goals on the season, including two hat tricks,” said coach Katelyn Fregosi. “One of those tricks was scored in just eight minutes on Senior Night. She has been a captain on varsity and continues to lead by example on and off the field.”
Mianna Bravo is honored from the girls basketball team.
“Mianna is a powerhouse on the court, leading the team in rebounding and establishing a formidable physical presence in the paint,” said coach Nick Pardue. “Her contributions have been vital in propelling the team back to the playoffs. With an impressive 4.2 GPA, she averages 10.2 points, along with 2 blocks and 2 steals, making her a standout stats leader in every category.
“She has emerged as a strong leader, relentlessly battling inside for our team and often drawing double and triple teams. Her dominant presence in the middle of the floor is a key factor in our success this year.”
