Menifee 24/7 is pleased to honor Athletes of the Month for September 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.
Lailah Ali Battle has been honored from the girls cross country team.
“When you’ve had the privilege of coaching and knowing an athlete from the time they’re in 6th grade to seeing them step up as an 11th grader, you get a front-row seat to what true passion looks like,” said coach John Hernandez. “Lailah Ali Battle is the absolute definition of heart, grit, and relentless work ethic. From day one, Lailah didn’t just hope for success, she went out and earned it. She put in endless hours of blood, sweat, and tears, earning her spot on the varsity team as a true freshman and never looking back.
“Now as a junior and an important piece of our varsity cross country team, she continues to set the bar high for herself, demands excellence, and holds herself accountable to every single stride. However, what makes Lailah truly special is her selfless spirit. For her, it has always been about the team and the program first. Whether on the cross country course or driving our track and field program to championship-level success, she gives everything she has to elevate everyone around her.”
Kai Sierra has been honored from the boys cross country team.
“When you have coached for over 25 years like I have, you occasionally run into an athlete whose dedication completely redefines what’s possible. Kai Sierra is that runner,” said Hernandez. “Though only a sophomore, Kai prepares like an absolute professional and approaches this sport with a level of heart, desire, and obsession that is truly rare. It’s no surprise he has emerged as the top runner on our varsity boys team and was chosen by his teammates as one of our team captains — a testament to the respect he’s earned through his actions every single day.
“He works harder than any athlete I have ever had the honor to coach, and his relentless pursuit of excellence has already earned him four individual medals this invitational season, along with a spot among the top 10 runners in our South Valley League. Kai possesses the passion and drive to push further in cross country than anyone before him, but what truly defines Kai as our leader is his selflessness. Above all the personal accolades and individual medals, Kai cares deeply about our program at Santa Rosa Academy. His primary focus this season isn’t just his own glory, it’s rallying his teammates and guiding our boys varsity team to their first CIF appearance in program history.”
Abby Pulver is a standout player for the girls volleyball team and has received Athlete of the Month recognition. The Rangers are 13-9 this season.
“This month she has been a leader to her team both on and off the court,” said her coach. “She is very dedicated to her sport, constantly finding ways to improve, and has been very flexible while playing multiple positions on the court.”
