Menifee 24/7 is pleased to honor Athletes of the Month for September at Heritage 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 cross country runner Aryah Phiakeo finished third overall in her first league race to earn Athlete of the Month honors.
Girls volleyball player Nuri Williams “has worked extremely hard to start in a new position her senior year,” said coach Diamond Brogan. “Her determination and effort does not go unnoticed. She is a good teammate on and off the court and her team appreciates her energy.”
Golfer Liliana Martinez-Gustafson has led the team to a 5-1 league record. Lili has shot under 50 4 times. Her coach says she is very consistent and is a good leader for the program.
Tennis player Carissa Vasquez is a three-year varsity No. 1 doubles player. She was the undefeated league MVP in 2025 and is currently undefeated in 2026. “She is a team leader, supports other players, is sound academically, always has a positive attitude, and encourages other players to do their best,” said coach Monty McIntosh.
Ameer Flores had an outstanding September as a key contributor at the point position for the boys water polo team. “In just his second year with the program, Ameer has demonstrated remarkable poise, determination, and leadership in the pool,” said coach Shannon Stephenson. “His growth as a well-rounded water polo athlete has been evident in every match, and his coaches are excited to see him continue developing and reaching his full potential.
“Ameer’s impact on the team this month has been exceptional, recording 22 goals, 26 assists, 41 steals, and 23 earned ejections. His ability to contribute on both the offensive and defensive ends of the game has played a significant role in the team’s success. Through his relentless work ethic, competitive spirit, and dedication to improvement, Ameer has earned recognition as our September Athlete of the Month.”
Senior football player Nofotau Sili has twice been the team Player of the week. He had 200 yards rushing against Santa Rosa Academy and made 14 solo tackles for the month. He also handles all of the special teams kicking duties for the Patriots, who are 4-2 this season.
The Athlete of the Month for cheer is Natalie Quinones. “Natalie is a positive influence on not only varsity cheer but also as one of the managers for JV cheer as well,” said her coach, Amy Frahn. “Natalie is someone who is dependable and trustworthy and is always there to help out or try something new. I am very proud of her hard work and dedication to HHS cheer.”
Heritage’s honoree from flag football is sophomore Mikhaela Edwards.
“Mikhaela is a strong-willed receiver and safety,” said coach Jason Chupany. “She leads by example and raises the morale and play of those around her. Over the course of September, offensively in 8 games, Mikhaela totaled 54 receptions for 967 yards and 9 touchdowns, averaging just under 18 yards per reception.
“Defensively, she has accumulated 16 flag pulls and 7 interceptions. Mikhaela also has a special teams punt return for a touchdown. Mikhaela is also striving in the classroom off the field with a 3.8 GPA.”
