REACH
Welcome to the 28th Annual REACH Youth Scholarship Awards Breakfast
The San Jose Sports Authority hosted its first youth scholarship program in the 1996-97 academic year. The REACH (Recognizing Excellence, Adversity, Courage and Hard work) Youth Scholarship Program is designed for high school seniors who have overcome adversity and excel in both academics and athletics. Now in its 28th year, the program continues to grow and includes more than 50 public and private high schools in Santa Clara County.
The REACH Youth Scholarship’s honorary co-chairs are Ronnie Lott and Brandi Chastain. This program is made possible by the generous support of the sponsors of the San Jose Sports Authority, City of San Jose, media, businesses and schools.
The REACH Youth Scholarship program is proud to recognize and honor these South Bay high school seniors. Thank you for your support of this 28th annual celebration of San Jose's youth community.
REACH YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION COMMITTEE
Dr. Cole Armstrong | San Jose State University
Gina Baldassarre | Adobe
Madison Bernstein | San Jose Earthquakes
Robert Braunstein | 49ers Cal-Hi Sports
Kraig Constantino | Intero Real Estate
Jennifer Cosgrove | Intero Real Estate
Dr. Svetlana Dani | Skyline Sports Medicine
Charlie Faas | San Jose State University
Dave Grissom | Central Coast Section
Selene Lenox | Turner Construction
Amy Linton | Arcadis
Jacqueline Rochelle Lopez | Visit San Jose
Elizabeth Narwal | Aduro Advisors
Rahul Patel | Qualcomm
Jennifer Wilson-Pitzen | NTC Foundation
Neil Santiago | Heritage Bank of Commerce
Chelsea Wagner | San Jose Sharks
Dr. Lamont Williams | San Jose State University
Geri Wong | Newmark Knight Frank
1 WELCOME
The San Jose Sports Authority is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to increase the City of San Jose’s economic development, visibility and civic pride through sports. Serving as the City’s sports commission since its inception in 1991, the Sports Authority has provided leadership and support to attract or host hundreds of sporting events in San Jose and the South Bay. The Sports Authority also supports and operates community, youth and amateur sports programs, including the San Jose Sports Hall of Fame and the REACH Youth Scholarship Program.
John Poch | Executive Director
Darren Centi | Director of Events
Chase Lazarus | Event Specialist
SJSA.ORG |
@sjsauthority @sanjosesports
| |
@sjsauthority
San Jose Sports Authority BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Victor Arrañaga Jr. | Hewlett Packard
Jamie Breslin | Stanford University
Anne Warner-Cribbs | BASOC OLY
Devora “Dev” Davis | San Jose City Council, D6
Andy Dolich | Dolich Consulting
Charlie Faas, Chair | San Jose State University
Pam Foley | San Jose City Council, D9
Staci Gustafson | Santa Clara University
Erik Hallgrimson | Cushman Wakefield
James Hamnett | SAP Center
Will Hunter | Pac 12
Rikhi Jain | Meta
Jeff Konya | San Jose State University
Matthew Martinucci | Visit San Jose
Lally Narwal | Roku
Jared Shawlee | San Jose Earthquakes
John Southwell | San Jose Marriott
Larry Stone | Santa Clara County
Dawn Sweatt | Berliner Cohen, LLP.
Dustin Warford | Heritage Bank of Commerce
Aaron Woliczko | West Coast Conference
Geri Wong | Newmark Knight Frank
Blage Zelalich | City of San Jose, OED
2
28th Annual
REACH Youth Scholarship Awards Breakfast
MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Robert Braunstein
Executive Producer and Host of 49ers Cal-Hi Sports Report
WELCOME
INTRODUCTIONS
Ronnie Lott
NFL Hall of Famer & Philanthropist
Brandi Chastain
FIFA Women’s World Cup & Olympic Champion
SPECIAL GUESTS
PRESENTATION OF STUDENT ATHLETES
2024 REACH YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS PRESENTATION
CLOSING REMARKS
Video Production by Robert Braunstein, Aubrie Tolliver, Adrian Soriano & Jason Vanderbroek
Event Photography by Terrell Lloyd
For photos and videos of today’s event, please visit www.sjsa.org
3 EVENT TIMELINE
Commerce
GEORGIE AGUSTIN
AKANESI ALVES
Basketball, Volleyball, Cheer
Track & Field, Rugby
OKAWA ANYANGWE
KEVIN ARTEAGA
Basketball, Golf
Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field
AYLIN AVENDANO CRUZ
Soccer, Track & Field, Cross Country
Moving from the Philippines to the United States disrupted Georgie’s sense of place in her family. She sensed a void that had to be filled quickly and took on more responsibilities to support her loved ones. Her journey as an athlete established her confidence to conquer all fears and appreciate those who have supported her along the way. Milpitas High School
Battling the hardship of homelessness and the abandonment of a parent, running has become Akanesi’s source of freedom and solace. Even though she experienced setbacks throughout her high school years, she never gave up on her passion for track and field. Running may be challenging, but it has always been her pathway to hope. Saint Francis High School
Despite facing new environments and ever-changing living situations, Okawa’s family has remained strong and resilient. Sports, including volleyball, basketball, and track, have been her solace and purpose, providing moments of joy and personal victories. Andrew P. Hill High School
Joining the basketball team in high school challenged Kevin to step out of his comfort zone and gradually made him more open and outgoing. Through basketball, he discovered a passion for photography and became involved in various leadership roles and school programs, using his newfound skills to contribute to the team and capture memorable moments. Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School
Moving from Mexico City to San Jose, California presented unfamiliarity that caused Aylin to adapt quickly. Joining the school soccer team helped her improve her social skills and develop a passion for sports. Over time, she became involved in other sports such as track & field and cross country, further enhancing her personal growth. Luis Valdez Leadership Academy
4 2024 REACH NOMINEES
At first, Mariela’s participation in sports was used to distract her from the stresses of life. Gaining inspiration from her older brother, she committed to play softball and found a spark that no one could take away from her. Now, sports have become the key that unlocked her ability to see the great potential in herself. Latino College Preparatory Academy
After facing numerous challenges in his life, soccer became Adrian’s constant source of support and therapy. Despite suffering multiple injuries, he pushed himself to recover and reached new heights in the sport. Now he aspires to pursue a career as a professional soccer player. Latino College Preparatory Academy
Despite financial adversities, Yanet made the decision to pursue higher education and find a way to support herself. Volleyball and flag football have been her passions, providing her with an outlet and a safe space to be herself, learn new skills, and push the limits. Yanet’s determination and resilience have been instrumental in her personal growth and success as a student-athlete.
Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School
Through basketball, Miles learned the valuable life lesson about the positive results that follow consistent and unwavering work ethic. His four years of basketball has included ups and downs, but allowed him to reflect with a sense of gratitude for the struggles, victories and personal development that shaped his journey. Wilcox High School
Reflecting on his journey in soccer, Alessandro has a deep appreciation for the resilient player he is today. Through perseverance and growth, he embraced adversity and used it as a catalyst for personal development. His experiences in soccer have shaped his character and instilled in him the belief that he can overcome any challenge. Wilcox High School
MARIELA BALBUENA-PANI
Softball, Cross Country
ADRIAN BARAJAS
Soccer Lacrosse, Cross Country
YANET BECERRA
Volleyball, Flag Football
MILES BONILLA Basketball, Football
ALESSANDRO CASTRO Soccer
5 2024 REACH NOMINEES
JOSH CHAVEZ
Basketball, Volleyball, Flag Football
CASEY COLSON
Basketball, Volleyball
JOSE CRUZ
MORAN
Soccer
DILLON DANIELS
Football
TIFFANY
DIEGO
Tennis, Volleyball
Financial challenges have presented adversity that Josh and his family faced together. Remaining strong and resilient, his family encouraged his participation in sports where he found solace and purpose. The REACH Scholarship would be a lifeline toward a better future where his love for sports, commitment to family and community can exist without compromise. DCP El Primero High School
Heart surgery halted Casey’s dreams of continuing to play sports in high school and beyond. After enduring an uphill road to recovery, he received medical clearance to participate in sports again. His love for the sport of basketball propelled him past adversity and back onto the court. Los Gatos High School
Jose excelled in soccer throughout his life and turned to the sports as a source of therapy to overcome personal challenges. Despite constantly adjusting to new living situations, he continued to perfect his soccer skills and has earned the opportunity to continue his athletic career while pursuing higher education. Latino College Preparatory
During his first football game of senior year, Dillon suffered a tragic season ending injury. Moments later his family experienced an irreplaceable loss. His support system transformed immense feelings of heartache into powerful motivation and inspiration to make his mom proud of the person he is today. Now excelling academically, he looks forward to pursing a business degree to continue the legacy of the family company. Mountain View High School
Early in high school, Tiffany experienced tragedy and troubles that affected her normal way of life. One day, she received an invite about volleyball tryouts at her school and she could feel this was the start of something special. Now, sports have become part of her identity and opened doors to new possibilities.
William C. Overfelt High School
6 2024 REACH NOMINEES
A swimming accident caused Franchesca to lose her ability to talk, read and walk. Simple tasks had to be relearned through intense therapies, but her courage never faltered. She returned to the sports she loved and possesses the power to rise from any situation of adversity. William C. Overfelt High School
Throughout her academic journey, Ryder has struggled concentrating and channeling her focus. Attempting to break free from this adversity, she began playing water polo, lacrosse and joined the swim team. Participation in sports helped her navigate a tough academic environment and increased her productivity.
Saratoga High School
Jonathan found solace in sports, particularly baseball, which taught him valuable life lessons such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and how to overcome failure. He made the difficult decision to transfer to a public school to continue playing baseball, which led him to a new community and new friends who shared his interests. William C. Overfelt High School
Ivy’s education is an extremely important facet of her life. With a full course load of AP classes, time management became her biggest test of will. The desire to achieve even more led to joining the soccer team and highlighted the importance of balance and stress relief.
Wilcox High School
Anna juggled multiple responsibilities as a student athlete, balancing school, basketball, work, and taking care of her younger brother. Despite the hectic schedule, basketball provided a calming a sense of purpose and strengthened her love for the game. Luis Valdez Leadership Academy
FRANCHESCA ESCOBAR
Cheer, Swim, Wrestling
RYDER GANGEMI
Water Polo, Swim, Lacrosse
7 2024 REACH NOMINEES
IVY GONZALEZ MONTUFAR Soccer
JONATHAN GARCIA Baseball
ANNA HERNANDEZ Backetball
GRACE HIRAI
Swimming, Basketball
TYLER HODGES
Football, Wrestling, Track & Field
MALACHI JACKSON
Football, Soccer, Track & Field
DANIEL KEEHN
Soccer, Cross Country
DAVID KEEHN
Soccer, Cross Country
Taking on a rigorous academic schedule, Grace leaned on basketball as an outlet to manage her stress. Being a part of a team showed her the power of collaboration and determination. Her leadership skills learned on the court carried over to other aspects of her life including becoming ASB president and giving back to her community.
Gunderson High School
A traumatic experience left Tyler feeling helpless and looking to find the person he once knew. Battling to regain control of his life, Tyler’s true self as a leader shown through to the highest level on the football field. During his senior year, a medical diagnosis presented the ultimate challenge and caused him to fight for his life. Never to be defeated, Tyler continues to pursue his dream of playing Division 1 football and beyond. Gilroy High School
The absence of a traditional family structure meant navigating a labyrinth of uncertainty and instability from an early age. Yet, it was through these adversities that Malachi discovered the resilience and determination that would later propel him forward as an athlete and individual. An older brother’s unwavering love and support imbued him with the strength to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Milpitas High School
Moving from Lithuania to Poland was a difficult adjustment for Daniel both academically and socially. Soccer helped him find joy in friendships and communities through a prestigious soccer academy. Moving to the US presented a fresh start and he quickly became interested in law. His sights are set on becoming a lawyer and serving in the US State Department. Henry M. Gunn High School
Similar to his brother, David encountered social discrimination after moving from Lithuania to Poland. However, his determination to learn a new language and connect with people through sports, particularly track & field, helped form new friendships. He plans to study business and sports medicine in college and pursue a career as a sports medicine physician. Henry M. Gunn High School
8 2024 REACH NOMINEES
Ben has worked to overcome multiple surgeries throughout his athletic career, each one presenting a new set of hurdles. Embracing the recovery process not only strengthened his character, it intensified his focus. His transformation serves as a constant reminder that setbacks, when faced with resilience, can indeed become the bedrock of success in life. Live Oak High School
Jordan found peace, serenity, and a gateway to better understand his emotions through sports, particularly basketball. He had never faced significant adversity until the day a beloved family member passed away. In his uncle’s memory, he became more motivated than ever to conquer goals, excel academically, and make his parents proud. Andrew P. Hill High School
Throughout her childhood, Sa’o battled internally with her levels of self-esteem. With the support of her coaches, family, and her own determination, she regained her sense of control through wrestling. Competing in her first tournament highlighted valuable lessons in discipline, perseverance, and self-love. Saint Francis High School
Early on in his athletic career Brian suffered a major knee injury Complications during the healing process led to multiples surgeries creating a new set of challenges. His love for soccer helped him conquer his fears becoming physically and mentally stronger. Eastside College Prep
When Alondra’s academics, sports, work, and family responsibilities became too great, she sought help and crafted an organized schedule to manage her time. Persevering through this balancing act, Alondra learned valuable lessons in patience, time management, and determination. Soccer provided cherished memories and solidified her love for the sport. Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School
With graduation approaching fast, Kimberly began to wonder about what life would look like after high school. Without her beloved dog by her side, she turned to sports to help ease the worries about life’s next steps. Finding joy in running, she is ready to race towards better days ahead. Andrew P. Hill High School
Lacrosse, Football, Golf JORDAN LEGASPI Basketball, Cross Country, Track & Field
SA’OTAMA’ITA’I LOIA Wrestling, Rugby
BRIAN MARTINEZ Volleyball ALONDRA MARTINEZ ENRIQUEZ Soccer
KIMBERLY MOJICA AGUILA Soccer, Basketball, Cross Country
9 2024 REACH NOMINEES
BEN LEDWITH
EJ PARCO
Wrestling
MIA PEREZ SMITH
Volleyball
KEELY
RAFAEL-MARTINEZ
Soccer
TJ RAMOS
Football
EMMA ROBBINS
Field Hockey, Diving, Gymnastics
Along EJ’s life journey he has been met with constant adversity that has tested his strength and courage to persevere. Wrestling allowed him to power through the tough times and equipped him with the tools to continue as a leader and athlete that his father would be proud of. Los Gatos High School
A difficult volleyball loss taught Mia resilience—the ability to bounce back, to learn from failure, and to emerge even stronger than before. She made sure to never let a mistake overshadow the progress made along the journey. She practiced harder, studied the game more intensely, and focused on her mental toughness. Slowly, the memory of that loss became a reminder of her determination.
Wilcox High School
After a major surgery before her junior year of soccer, Keely was prevented from playing the game she loved. The recovery process also meant being absent from school and work which hurt her grades and ability to lend financial support to her family. She bounced back senior year and rediscovered her desire to succeed. Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School
A football injury ended TJ’s senior season early and his road to recovery made him feel stuck in place. In this time of need, his family, coaches and teammates provided a support system for him to persevere through the tough times. More motivated than ever, he is ready to tackle the challenge of playing college sports.
William C. Overfelt High School
Emma was diagnosed with Alopecia Areata which caused hair loss from a very young age. Instead of letting the condition define her, she embraced her uniqueness and became a source of inspiration for others. This mindset allowed her to excel in athletics, as coaches easily remembered her and she developed qualities such as selfassurance, motivation, and strength. Willow Glen High School
10 2024 REACH NOMINEES
Since childhood, Arial struggled to focus in her quickly changing environment. Sports became her outlet to overcome negative thoughts and feelings. Harnessing this newly found positive energy from soccer, she remains determined to succeed and make her family, coaches, and teammates proud. Milpitas High School
Growing up, Jessie noticed stereotypes beginning to form around people from his hometown and their life after high school. The loss of a dear friend caused a sudden setback in his ability to perform academically and athletically. He found strength and support in his family, teachers and coaches who helped him prioritize school and enjoy the fun in sports. Eastside College Prep
Due to a Brachial Plexus injury at birth, which left her right arm underdeveloped, Jocelyn faced adversity early on. Despite this, she has not let her disability stop her from achieving her goals. Being an athlete while overcoming hardship has been her greatest accomplishment, proving to herself that she can achieve anything with perseverance and a positive mindset. Silver Creek High School
As a first-generation Latina, the importance of education has been instilled in Dulce by her parents from an early age. However, the loss of a loved one shifted her focus away from school work. Sports became her source of therapy, allowing her to leave her troubles behind and reenergized her passion to reach her academic goals. Latino College Preparatory Academy
Walter’s great grandmother has been a positive and influential role model for him. Her presence has shaped his unique perspective to focus on the good in life. He continued to demonstrate this positive outlook while playing sports and established himself as a team leader. William C. Overfelt High School
Soccer, Flag Football
Volleyball
JOCELYN SERRANO Basketball, Track & Field
DULCE SERVACIO Softball, Basketball, Cross Country WALTER SMITH
Football, Basketball, Track & Field
11 2024 REACH NOMINEES
ARIAL RODRIGUEZ
JESSIE SALDIVAR
ARTHUR TRAN
Volleyball, Baseball
MATTHEW VAN Tennis
SCARLETT
VILLA ORTIZ
Field Hockey, Track & Field
Arthur never let his self-esteem keep him from playing the sport he loved. Instead, he used volleyball and baseball as a vehicle to increase his self-confidence and personal skills becoming an impactful team player. Henry M. Gunn High School
ANAHI
VILLA VERA
Soccer, Cross Country
YESENIA
VILLANUEVA
Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer
For Matthew, playing tennis on the school team was about a journey of self-discovery. The support and feedback from teammates and coaches provided a foundation for collaboration. This collaboration, in turn, helped him develop communication skills that extended beyond the court. Santa Clara High School
Demonstrating the courage seize new opportunities, Scarlett joined the field hockey team. Regardless of the challenges of playing a new sport, she remained committed all four years and enjoyed the wins and goals scored along the way. Being involved in sports brought her friends, life skills, and memories she’ll remember forever.
Wilcox High School
Anahi and her siblings strengthened their familial bond during the adversity experienced together. Extracurricular activities like soccer and speech and debate helped them heal, forgive, and become more independent. They learned to rely on themselves and turned a difficult situation into an opportunity for personal growth and making an impact on others’ lives. Independence High School
Yesenia possesses a strong work ethic she learned from her father. His memory continues to inspire her to approach sports with determination and intensity, and she has learned the importance of perseverance and a strong mentality in overcoming challenges. Yessenia’s resilience and drive have shaped her into a successful student-athlete who approaches setbacks as opportunities for growth. DCP El Primero High School
12 2024 REACH NOMINEES
As a goalkeeper on the soccer team, Zoe has learned the importance of effective communication on the field. Through her experiences in sports, Zoe has also developed the ability to face and express her emotions, using her team as a support system and learning the value of sharing her thoughts during tough times.
Eastside College Prep
Engaging in sports offered Noreen a much-needed break from traveling between different living situations. Being part of a sports team not only allowed her to make new friends but improved her communication skills. On the badminton and tennis court, effective communication with her partner often spelled the difference between victory and defeat. Andrew P. Hill High School
Thomas has shown remarkable resilience and determination throughout his life. Golf became his outlet and source of peace allowing him to cope with stress and develop valuable life skills such as discipline and perseverance. Thomas is determined to pursue his dream of becoming an airline pilot and is working part-time while applying for scholarships to support his college journey. Milpitas High School
The life lessons Crystal learned on the basketball court helped her defeat self-doubt and be the best version of herself. When she joined the girls’ basketball team in high school and rediscovered her love for the game, her positive attitude established her as a team leader during a historic season. Latino College Preparatory Academy
Edwin moved from El Salvador to the United States at a young age and struggled finding his place in a new culture. Deciding to break free from stereotypes, he embraced his uniqueness and inspired his teammates to be confident in their skills on and off the pitch. Eastside College Prep
13 2024 REACH NOMINEES
ZOE VILLEGAS-MACIAS Soccer, Track & Field NOREEN VU
Badminton, Tennis CRYSTAL YOCELIN TORRES Basketball
THOMAS WONEIS Golf
EDWIN ZEPEDA Soccer
28 Years of Recognizing Excellence, Adversity, Courage and Hard Work
