Awards Ceremony September 29, 2026 The Grand Long Beach, California
Welcome to the 21st Jim Staunton Champions for Character Award Ceremony It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 21st Annual Dr. Jim Staunton Champions for Character Awards Dinner. This special event provides us with the opportunity to recognize student-athletes, coaches, administrators, athletic trainers, officials, and members of the media who exemplify outstanding character and sportsmanship. The CIF Southern Section is proud to honor each of our award recipients for who they are, what they represent, and the positive impact they have on education-based athletics. We also recognize the families, friends, schools, and communities whose support has helped these individuals become the leaders and role models we celebrate today. Together, you reinforce the values represented in our motto: Academics, Integrity, and Athletics. Since its inception in 1913, the CIF Southern Section has been committed to providing opportunities for student-athletes to compete while recognizing the important role high school athletics plays in educating and developing young people. The lessons learned through participation extend far beyond competition. Teamwork, perseverance, accountability, leadership, and respect are among the qualities that help prepare our student-athletes for success long after their high school careers have ended. The Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship, are the foundation of Pursuing Victory with Honor and represent the qualities we hope are modeled throughout education-based athletics. Our honorees demonstrate that success is measured not only by victories and accomplishments, but also by how we compete, how we lead, and how we treat others. On behalf of the CIF Southern Section, congratulations to all our Champions for Character honorees. Thank you for your commitment, your example, and for representing the very best of high school athletics.
Mike West Commissioner of Athletics
On behalf of the California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section, the Office of the Commissioner, the Executive Committee, and the Federated Council, congratulations to all of our member schools, administrators, coaches, and student-athletes for being recognized as “Champions for Character” for 2025-2026. The foundations associated with the “Champions for Character” awards speak to the leadership and commitment to the CIF Southern Section through sportsmanship, integrity, positive relations, respect for diversity, fair play over victory, and total commitment to the rules of the game. Tonight, you are being honored and recognized for your dedication to the ideals of positive life lessons through education-based athletics. The CIF Southern Section, our member schools, the Executive Committee, the Federated Council, and I offer congratulations on your demonstration and commitment to the CIF Southern Section values for education-based athletics. Thank you for all you do for your communities, schools, coaches, administrators, and student-athletes. Our future is in extraordinary hands.
Respectfully, Dr. Alexis Barile President CIF Southern Section Council
2026 – 2027 CIF Southern Section Executive Committee Dr. Alexis Barile, President of the Council Rob Dearborn, President-Elect of the Council Dr. Paula Hart Rodas, Past President of the Council Matt Maeda, Treasurer of the Council Mike West, Commissioner of Athletics Jamal Adams, Parochial Area Representative Terrence Barnum, At-Large Representative David Collicutt, Boys’ Athletic Directors Representative Ann Fitzgerald, Foothill Area Representative Gil Gomez, Desert Area Representative Mary Jane Hibbard, Orange County Area Representative Demetre Howard, Coast Area Representative Kai Lyles, Citrus Belt Area Representative Rene Nakao-Mauch, Northern Area Representative David Parkes, Small Schools Area Representative Mary Perez, At-Large Representative Robyn Reclusado-Garcia, Girls’ Athletic Directors Representative Kenny Ritchie, Mt. SAC Area Representative Cari Strange, Activities Director Representative Suzie Swartz, CSBA Representative Dr. Reggie Thompkins, Superintendent Representative
Ethics in Sports Committee Members John Broussard, Murrieta Mesa Dominic Farrar, Charter Oak Sandy Gahring, Azusa (Retired) Lauren Kamiyama, Torrance Samantha Miyahara, Warren Brett Proctor, Alta Loma (Retired) Robyn Reclusado‐Garcia, Sierra Vista Thom Simmons, CIF Southern Section Assisstant Commissioner Terry Speir, Long Beach Poly (Retired) Dr. Jim Staunton, CIF Southern Section Commissioner (Retired) Tim Walsh, Ocean View Mike West, CIF Southern Section Commissioner
September 29, 2026
TO: Recipients of the CIF Southern Section Champions for Character Awards FROM: Ron Nocetti, CIF Executive Director Congratulations on being selected as a recipient of a 2025-26 CIF Southern Section Champions for Character Individual or School Award. This recognition is meaningful because it honors something greater than athletic achievement. It honors the way you compete, the way you lead, and the way you treat others. Character is not revealed only when the outcome is favorable. It is revealed in difficult moments when the pressure is high, when no one is watching, and when doing what is right requires courage. Through your actions, you have shown that pursuing victory with honor is more than an ideal. It is a standard that can be lived every day. The example you set reaches far beyond a single contest or season. It helps shape the culture of your team, your school, and your community. It reminds all of us that education-based athletics is at its best when it develops young people who compete with integrity, respect others, and understand that how we pursue success matters. As you receive this well-earned honor, I encourage you to thank the family members, coaches, teachers, administrators, teammates, classmates and colleagues who have supported you. They share in this moment, just as you have strengthened their communities through your leadership and example. On behalf of the California Interscholastic Federation, congratulations and thank you for showing what it means to be a Champion for Character.
Belong - Connect - Compete
IT’S BIGGER THAN SPORTS. THE CIF PROVIDES STUDENTS WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO BELONG, CONNECT AND COMPETE IN EDUCATION-BASED EXPERIENCES.
Program Musical Entertainment Long Beach Polytechnic High School “Poly Gold” Jazz Combo
Welcome Mike West, Commissioner of Athletics
Pledge of Allegiance Lakewood High School Navy JROTC Color Guard
Introduction of Guests Mike West, Commissioner of Athletics
Dinner Recognition of Honorees Ethics in Sports Committee
Closing Remarks Mike West, Commissioner of Athletics
Recognition of honorees
2025- 2026 STUDENT HONOREES
VANESSA CHAYASIRISOBHON Anaheim Discovery Christian School Nominated by Dr. Victor Chayasirisobhon, Principal Vanessa Chayasirisobhon is a multi-sport student-athlete whose kindness, perseverance, and selflessness are evident throughout her school and community. She serves in student council, leads worship, tutors younger students, assists with preschool children, and has participated in mission trips serving communities in need. Vanessa is also known as a teammate who places others before herself, whether encouraging teammates through difficult moments or sacrificing her own competitive goals to support someone struggling. Her humor, creativity, compassion, and willingness to serve wherever needed make Vanessa a positive influence on everyone around her and an outstanding example of character in action.
JESSICA MENA Burroughs High School Nominated by Vicky Oganyan, Girls Basketball Coach Jessica Mena combines toughness and competitive drive with compassion, service, and an unwavering commitment to her teammates. A standout in basketball who also embraces the challenge of competing in baseball, Jessica leads through her work ethic, resilience, and willingness to put the team first. Away from competition, she volunteers at youth basketball camps, serves as a Link Crew leader, participates in CSF and National Honor Society, and has been involved in Girl Scouts since age five. Whether mentoring younger students, supporting a struggling teammate, or pursuing opportunities that challenge expectations, Jessica demonstrates courage, kindness, and a determination to make every community she joins better.
2025- 2026 STUDENT HONOREES
MANDY OLIVEROS CAMS Nominated by Juliette King, Athletic Director
Mandy Oliveros is a talented student-athlete whose accomplishments on the tennis court are matched by her kindness, integrity, and commitment to others. As team captain, Mandy leads with encouragement and consistently demonstrates honesty and sportsmanship, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike. A three-time Moore League singles champion and member of two CIF championship teams, she remains humble and focused on celebrating the success of others. Beyond tennis, Mandy serves as a Link Crew leader, helping freshmen transition to high school, and as a youth leader at her church. Her positive energy and genuine care for others make her an exceptional role model.
ARIELLE HSIAO Edgewood High School Nominated by Dr. Kimberly Cabrera, Head of Schools Arielle Hsiao demonstrates that character is revealed through everyday choices to serve others and do what is right. A tennis and swim student-athlete with a 4.71 GPA, Arielle is known for exceptional honesty, sportsmanship, and respect in competition. Her service includes volunteering at a summer camp for children, mentoring middle school speech students, tutoring Science Olympiad participants, and founding a mentorship program to support newcomer English Learners. She also competes nationally in Speech and Debate while preparing for the IB Diploma Program. Through her integrity, academic excellence, and commitment to helping others succeed, Arielle elevates those around her.
2025- 2026 STUDENT HONOREES
DARLA HERNANDEZ Garey High School Nominated By John McGaha, Athletic Director Darla Hernandez is an exceptional scholar-athlete, artist, and community servant whose character is reflected in everything she does. A varsity tennis player since her freshman year, Darla has helped Garey High School capture two league championships while also supporting the boys tennis program as an equipment manager and statistician. She volunteers in the Pomona community through food distribution and community cleanup efforts and is known for welcoming and mentoring new teammates. While maintaining a 4.0 GPA and excelling as an artist, Darla consistently demonstrates humility, fairness, responsibility, and empathy. Her goal of combining science and art to help others reflects her caring spirit.
ELLA JONES Huntington Beach High School Nominated by Melissa Vandenbosch, Athletic Director Ella Jones is a varsity lacrosse captain whose leadership is defined by hard work, kindness, and service. Through her lacrosse program, Ella has volunteered with food pantries, homeless shelters, senior centers, elementary schools, and youth athletic events. She also participates in environmental efforts, including the school’s Green Team and local beach cleanups, and helps welcome incoming students through Link Crew and orientation activities. On the field, Ella leads by example, motivating teammates, working continuously to improve, and helping elevate the performance of those around her. Her commitment to family, school, team, and community reflects the qualities of an outstanding student-athlete and leader.
2025- 2026 STUDENT HONOREES
MACY CLARK Murrieta Mesa High School Nominated by John Broussard, Athletic Director Macy Clark is an accomplished student-athlete who combines elite athletic performance with humility, inclusion, and service. A leader on Murrieta Mesa’s nationally recognized softball team, Macy competes with sportsmanship and consistently puts her teammates first. She is also a three-year member of the ASL Club and participates in Unified Sports, helping create a school environment where students of all abilities feel welcomed and valued. While maintaining a 4.2 GPA and the demands of high-level athletics, Macy remains known for her positivity, accountability, and kindness. She leads with heart, treats others with dignity, and represents her school with pride.
MADDOX PETERSON Tahquitz High School Nominated by Sarah Peterson, Cheer Coach Maddox Peterson exemplifies leadership through accountability, hard work, and service to others. A competitive cheerleader at Tahquitz High School, Maddox is known for arriving early, staying late, mentoring younger athletes, and helping teammates develop their skills. In difficult competitive moments, he responds with composure, encourages those around him, and focuses on improvement rather than blame. Maddox has also completed more than 150 hours of community service through organizations and events throughout the Hemet and Menifee communities. His honesty, work ethic, respect for competitors and judges, and willingness to serve without seeking recognition demonstrate the character of a true leader.
2025- 2026 COACHES HONOREES
CHRISTOPHER WARD Arlington High School Nominated by Tacy Duncan, Athletic Director Christopher Ward has built an extraordinary legacy at Arlington High School through more than 15 years of coaching, teaching, and mentoring. His programs have achieved more than 1,000 victories and numerous league championships, but Coach Ward’s greatest emphasis has always been on integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. An accomplished Advanced Placement teacher and former Teacher of the Year, Chris uses both the classroom and pool deck to develop young people. Even after stepping away from head coaching responsibilities to prioritize his family, he continues mentoring athletes and coaches and supporting the aquatics program. His example demonstrates that leadership is ultimately measured by values, relationships, and service.
CHRISTINA THOMAS Azusa High School Nominated by Gabriel Fernandez, Principal Christina Thomas has demonstrated extraordinary leadership, resilience, and compassion while building a unified cheer program at Azusa High School. During the merger of two former rival school communities, Coach Christina brought student-athletes together and created a single team built on pride, spirit, and belonging. She also established the school’s stunt program while guiding her athletes through significant personal losses and difficult circumstances. Through every challenge, Christina has remained committed to supporting her student-athletes as people while expecting excellence in competition, academics, and community representation. The pride, perseverance, and character displayed by Azusa Cheer reflect the values their coach models every day.
2025- 2026 COACHES HONOREES
BRIAN EISENBERG Huntington Beach High School Nominated by Melissa Vandenbosch, Athletic Director Brian Eisenberg has built a girls lacrosse program centered on integrity, respect, service, and the overall well-being of student-athletes. Coach Eisenberg teaches his players that success is measured not only by victories, but by effort, accountability, and the way they treat teammates, opponents, and officials. He develops servant leadership through regular volunteer opportunities with senior citizens and students with specialized needs, while also modeling sportsmanship through thoughtful gestures toward visiting teams. Most importantly, Brian remains attentive to the emotional well-being of his athletes, particularly during difficult times. Through mentorship, compassion, and service, he develops responsible young leaders as well as strong competitors.
TODD MAPES Martin Luther King High School Nominated by John Corona, Retired Track Coach Todd Mapes has spent more than two decades demonstrating that competitive excellence and sportsmanship should always go hand in hand. As boys soccer coach at Martin Luther King High School, Todd teaches his student-athletes to compete with intensity without ever sacrificing dignity, fairness, or respect. His teams are known for their work ethic and positive behavior, and Todd is widely respected throughout the coaching community for consistently placing the lessons of educational athletics above the outcome of a game. Even in high-pressure moments, he reminds his players to enjoy the opportunity to compete. His example has positively influenced student-athletes, fellow coaches, and families throughout his career.
2025- 2026 COACHES HONOREES
JENNIFER STRAWN Moreno Valley High School Nominated by Brad Allcock, Athletic Director Jennifer Strawn serves Moreno Valley High School as a coach, educator, and athletic leader whose dependability and integrity have made her an invaluable member of the school community. Coaching boys and girls volleyball while assisting with basketball and athletic administration, Jennifer consistently models respect, responsibility, fairness, and resilience. Her teams have achieved CIF championship success while earning recognition for strong academics and respectful conduct. She holds student-athletes accountable while ensuring they feel supported, included, and valued. Jennifer’s willingness to step into leadership whenever her school needs her, combined with her commitment to developing confident and responsible young people, makes her an exceptional example of character in action.
KENNETH LEE Long Beach Poly Nominated by Harry, Deanna, & Braxton Chung, Maha El'Ouaer, and Arely Salguero Kenneth Lee has created a wrestling program where discipline, accountability, academics, and sportsmanship are fundamental expectations. Coach Lee treats athletes, opponents, officials, and families with respect while teaching his wrestlers to remain humble and composed regardless of the outcome. His leadership has produced tremendous competitive success, including boys and girls league championships and state qualifiers, but his greatest impact is reflected in the character of his athletes. Kenneth invests personally in their academic and athletic growth, helping them develop confidence and resilience. His consistent example of fairness, integrity, and respect has earned admiration from his own school as well as coaches and competitors throughout the wrestling community.
2025- 2026 COACHES HONOREES
JAKE MAGNANT Rowland High School Nominated by Brian Rice, Mike Ortalli and Leslie Phillips Jake Magnant has spent more than 15 years building a tennis program where competitive excellence, inclusion, academics, and character go hand in hand. As a coach, special education teacher, league coordinator, and CIF Southern Section Tennis Committee member, Jake works tirelessly to create opportunities for students from a wide range of backgrounds. His teams have achieved extraordinary competitive success, but Jake measures his impact by whether students feel supported, challenged, and believed in. He mentors young leaders, assists students with college preparation, advocates for students facing barriers, and promotes equity throughout athletics. Through service and mentorship, Jake consistently uses athletics to open doors and change lives.
CHARLES “CHUCK” SANCHEZ San Gorgonio High School Nominated by Matt Maeda, Athletic Director Charles “Chuck” Sanchez has been part of the San Gorgonio High School community for more than 50 years, first as a student-athlete and for the past three decades as a coach and mentor. Coach Sanchez has created a supportive family within his programs, teaching athletes to respect their teammates, opponents, officials, and school. His service extends far beyond coaching duties; Chuck willingly assists wherever needed, from preparing facilities and supporting events to participating in student leadership programs. Several former athletes have even returned to coach alongside him, extending his influence to another generation. His loyalty, service, and genuine care for young people represent an extraordinary legacy of character.
2025- 2026 COACHES HONOREES
RICHARD DETAMBLE Shadow Hills High School Nominated by Jody Davis, Athletic Director Richard DeTamble has created cross country and track and field programs where athletic achievement is accompanied by academic excellence, community service, and genuine care for others. Mentoring approximately 200 student-athletes, Coach DeTamble emphasizes success in the classroom while building a culture of trust, accountability, and respect. His teams have contributed more than 600 hours of community service, reinforcing his belief that character is demonstrated through serving others. Richard also expands athletic opportunities through a middle school meet and an Adaptive PE Field Day for students with disabilities. His commitment to inclusion, mentorship, academics, and service represents the very best of education-based athletics.
JEFF HOOPER The Thacher School Nominated by Jason Carney, Benjamin Soto, Bryan Medeiros, Anthony Franco, Sarah R. DelVecchio, Jesus Ceja, and Edgar Arceo For more than two decades, Jeff Hooper shaped The Thacher School’s football program around sportsmanship, accountability, respect, and the pursuit of victory with honor. As the program’s founding head coach, Jeff built a successful football tradition while establishing an even more meaningful culture of ethical leadership and personal growth. His players learned to compete fiercely while remaining respectful, humble, and supportive of one another. Jeff’s influence also extends to generations of assistant coaches who credit him with shaping their own approach to leadership. Now serving as Head of School, his legacy is reflected in former players who became leaders and citizens prepared for success far beyond football.
2025- 2026 ADMINISTRATOR HONOREES
JOE LAM Anaheim Discovery Christian School Nominated by Dr. Victor Chayasirisobhon, Principal Joe Lam has served Anaheim Discovery Christian School with humility, dedication, and an extraordinary willingness to take on whatever role is needed. As vice principal, Joe provided essential leadership during the challenges of the pandemic and has continued to serve his school as an administrator, teacher, coach, and mentor. Students regularly seek his guidance because of his patience, calm demeanor, and ability to model the character he encourages in others. Whether teaching advanced academic courses, coaching basketball, tutoring after school, or speaking to students about character, Joe consistently puts service before recognition. His steady leadership has made a lasting difference in his school community.
STEVE ROSENBAUM California Lutheran Academy Nominated by Michael Fromm, Athletic Director Steve Rosenbaum demonstrates leadership through service, dependability, and a willingness to support his school community wherever he is needed. As principal of California Lutheran High School, Steve regularly volunteers at athletic events, working concessions, operating scoreboards, and stepping into other roles so families can simply enjoy watching their students compete. He takes time to check in with student-athletes, supports his athletic staff, and consistently follows through on his commitments. With four decades in education, Steve continues to model the same work ethic and integrity he expects from students. His willingness to serve alongside others makes him a respected and positive example throughout his school community.
2025- 2026 ADMINISTRATOR HONOREES
DAVID COLLICUTT Geffen Academy at UCLA Nominated by Owen Yancher, Assistant Athletic Director David Collicutt has spent nearly three decades developing student-athletes and building athletic programs centered on leadership, integrity, opportunity, and sportsmanship. As a founding staff member and athletic director at Geffen Academy, David built the school’s athletic program from the ground up, developing a culture that balances competitive excellence with character. He also created a Student Athletic Council that gives students opportunities to develop leadership skills, promote inclusivity, and help shape their athletic community. Beyond campus, David serves as President of the Coastal League, advocates for small schools, mentors coaches, and volunteers at CIF championship events. His student-first leadership reflects the very purpose of educational athletics.
SCOTT RICHARDS JR. Murrieta Mesa High School Nominated by John Broussard, Athletic Director Scott Richards Jr. leads Murrieta Mesa High School with a commitment to three principles: Character, Community, and Championships. A former girls basketball coach who led a CIF Southern Section championship team, Scott brings the lessons of educational athletics into his role as principal. He is a consistent presence at both home and away contests, demonstrating to students and coaches that their efforts matter. Scott also creates opportunities for student-athletes to share their experiences and have a voice in their programs. Through integrity, authenticity, and thoughtful leadership, he demonstrates that lasting success begins by building character and community before pursuing championships.
2025- 2026 ADMINISTRATOR HONOREES
ALICIA SEEVERS Orange High School Nominated by Sheryl Anderson, Principal Alicia Seevers led Orange High School athletics with a student-centered approach grounded in integrity, equity, responsibility, and service. As athletic director, Alicia built meaningful relationships with students, coaches, colleagues, and the broader athletic community while creating opportunities for young people to succeed in the classroom, in competition, and in life. She is a respected mentor who provides guidance to others and is willing to engage in difficult conversations when they benefit students. Alicia’s commitment extends beyond her own campus through service in athletic and educational leadership roles. Her professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to fairness exemplify the values of a Champion for Character.
JEANNE SHIOSAKI Peninsula High School Nominated by DJ Clovis For 33 years, Jeanne Shiosaki has been a cornerstone of Peninsula High School athletics, serving generations of student-athletes, coaches, and families with kindness, integrity, and professionalism. As athletic secretary, Jeanne works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure teams, events, and programs operate successfully while building meaningful relationships with the students she serves. Her steady presence helps create an environment where young people feel valued and where respect, responsibility, and sportsmanship are priorities. Jeanne’s influence extends far beyond the responsibilities of her position. Through more than three decades of quiet and dedicated service, she has helped shape a culture of character throughout Peninsula athletics.
2025- 2026 ATHLETIC TRAINER HONOREES
TABITHA GERES Edgewood High School Nominated by Dr. Kimberly Cabrera, Head of Schools Tabitha Geres combines medical expertise, education, mentorship, and service to elevate the student-athlete experience at Edgewood High School. Often among the first to arrive and last to leave, Tabitha dedicates countless hours to keeping students safe while teaching them to understand and take ownership of their health. She creates meaningful educational opportunities for students interested in sports medicine, including exposure to professional conferences and hands-on clinical experiences. Her commitment to service extends beyond Edgewood, as she assists other schools when coverage is needed and provides visiting competitors with the same compassionate care she gives her own athletes. Tabitha is not simply an athletic trainer, but a trusted teacher and mentor.
STACEY RUSSO JSerra Catholic High School Nominated by Amy Hemphill, Dean of Athletics Stacey Russo is an athletic trainer, educator, and mentor whose impact reaches throughout the JSerra Catholic community. In addition to providing exceptional care for more than 900 student-athletes, Stacey has helped build a thriving Sports Medicine program that combines classroom instruction with meaningful hands-on experience. She prepares students through First Aid and CPR certification and creates opportunities for them to develop skills in the training room and on the sidelines. Known for her calm professionalism, clear communication, and genuine care for others, Stacey has created a culture of confidence, responsibility, and service. Her leadership develops healthier student-athletes while inspiring the next generation of sports medicine professionals.
2025- 2026 ATHLETIC TRAINER HONOREES
HARRISON GARCIA La Habra High School Nominated by Paul Caffrey, Athletic Director Harrison Garcia has transformed athletic training at La Habra High School through service, professionalism, and a deep commitment to student-athlete safety. In just three years, Harrison has raised the standard of care while developing a successful Student Trainer Program in partnership with the school’s Medical Careers program. He provides students with hands-on experience while holding them to high expectations for academics, behavior, responsibility, and professionalism. Harrison also educates coaches on injury recognition and prevention, helping make student safety a shared responsibility throughout the athletic department. Whether evaluating injuries, guiding rehabilitation, or mentoring future healthcare professionals, Harrison’s leadership has strengthened both the health and character of the La Habra athletic community.
ABBY ROBINSON Westminster High School Nominated by Mike Schultz, Athletic Director Abby Robinson is a trusted professional whose expertise, composure, and genuine compassion make her an essential part of Westminster High School athletics. In critical situations involving serious injuries, Abby has demonstrated the ability to respond calmly and decisively while always placing student safety first. She builds meaningful relationships with athletes, treating every student with dignity and continuing to support them beyond the immediate injury. Abby has also developed an internship program that gives students hands-on experience and exposure to careers in sports medicine. Through long hours devoted to prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, she creates an environment where student-athletes feel safe, valued, and supported throughout their athletic experience.
2025- 2026 MEDIA HONOREE
ERIC-PAUL JOHNSON Nominated by Mike West, Commissioner of Athletics Eric-Paul Johnson has been covering high school sports for The Press-Enterprise and Southern California News Group since 1999 , with bylines in outlets such as The PressEnterprise, The Sacramento Bee, The Orange County Register, Fresno Bee, Los Angeles Daily News, and San Luis Obispo Tribune, specializing in football, girls volleyball, girls water polo and softball. He is a stat junkie who created and maintains a record book for high school sports in the Inland Empire. Eric-Paul is a lifelong resident of Riverside and graduated from Bethel Christian and Cal Baptist. Eric-Paul enjoys going to concerts and twice has worked as a photographer at the Coachella Valley Arts & Music Festival.
2025- 2026 OFFICIAL HONOREE
RON BREYER Track and Field Nominated by John Corona, Retired Coach, Martin Luther King High School Ron Breyer has devoted more than five decades to track and field as a coach, mentor, and official, always placing sportsmanship and opportunity for young people at the center of his service. During 40 years coaching at Hemet High School, Ron taught athletes to compete with dignity, fairness, and respect while finding ways to ensure all students had opportunities to participate. Following his coaching career, he became a starter and leader with the Inland Track Officials Association, where he continues to mentor athletes, coaches, and fellow officials. At age 82, Ron remains active in clinics and education, leaving an enduring legacy of service, sportsmanship, and character throughout CIF track and field.
2025- 2026 SCHOOL AWARD
RAMONA HIGH SCHOOOL
2025- 2026 COMMISSIONER’S AWARD Commissioner’s Award Sponsored by Greater Ontario Sports
JALYSSA LOATMAN Orange High School Nominated by Alicia Seevers, Athletic Director Jalyssa Loatman is a three-sport student-athlete whose leadership is distinguished by compassion, humility, and service. An ASB leader who will serve as president during her senior year, Jalyssa has helped support fundraising efforts benefiting cancer-related causes and her local community. She has contributed more than 100 hours of service through basketball and also volunteers with senior citizens, tutors children, and supports community and Special Olympics events. In competition, Jalyssa is known for encouraging teammates, respecting opponents, and putting others before herself. Her ability to make people feel valued, combined with her academic and athletic accomplishments, makes her a leader on and off campus.
TALAR KHAYALIAN Pilibos High School Nominated by Karolin Massihains, Assistant Athletic Director Talar Khayalian is a dedicated student-athlete whose leadership is rooted in service, compassion, and commitment to others. A basketball captain at Pilibos High School, Talar leads with composure, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to her teammates. Her service includes volunteering at school athletic events and senior living facilities, as well as founding a club that supports children experiencing hair loss from medical conditions. A longtime member and leader in the Armenian Youth Federation Juniors, Talar has also participated in advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. Through athletics and service, she demonstrates that true leadership is about showing up for others.
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2026-2027 CIF Southern Section Staff Mike West, Commissioner of Athletics Mitch Carty, Chief Financial Officer Jerry De Fabiis, Assistant Commissioner Joe Hoggatt, Assistant Commissioner Mike Middlebrook, Assistant Commissioner Kristine Palle, Assistant Commissioner Alicia Seevers, Assistant Commissioner Thom Simmons, Assistant Commissioner Jacqulyn Gibson, Director of Marketing & Corporate Partnerships Brenda Bomgaars, Executive Assistant Brianna Sutrisna, Digital Media Coordinator Breanna Bernard-Joseph, Marketing & Corporate Partnerships Coordinator Alysha Colladay, Communications Coordinator Erin Courtemarche, Finance Assistant Alex Lagos, Program Coordinator Kayla Mills, Program Coordinator Chelsea Olson, Program Coordinator Cailey Sanchez-Collado, Program Coordinator Tamara Towgood, Program Coordinator Laura O’Sullivan, Receptionist Heston Quan, Photographer
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