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Meet Leo Atang

Leo Atang cared far more about rugby and football the day he decided to put the boxing on in his mum’s front room for the first time. That night, Anthony Joshua climbed off the canvas to stop Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley Stadium and, up in York, one 10-year-old’s life would change forever. “I had tried […]

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Meet Leo Atang
Leo Atang cared far more about rugby and football the day he decided to put the boxing on in his mum’s front room for the first time.

That night, Anthony Joshua climbed off the canvas to stop Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley Stadium and, up in York, one 10-year-old’s life would change forever.

“I had tried every sport there is,” Atang, now 18, tells The Ring. “But then I watched that AJ-Klitschko fight and I thought ‘I want to give this a go’.

“Everyone in school knew who AJ was but I had never seen any of his fights until that one. But straight away I knew I had to try it.”

Incidentally, Joshua was already the age Atang is now when he first walked into the Finchley Amateur Boxing Club for an evening session that would ultimately change the course of British boxing history.

Atang was straight into the gym and, by the age of 13, was preparing for his first amateur bout. “I was 55 kilos then,” laughs Atang, now a fully fledged heavyweight.

“It was at the Bradford Hotel and I was very nervous, I had never seen anything like it before. Everyone warming up in the same room then out into the suite with fancy lights and tables everywhere.”

With that in mind, it has been a rapid ascent across the last five years for Atang, who also had to contend with the Covid-19 lockdown which threatened to end his boxing career just four bouts in.

It was a period where a number of promising sporting careers, never mind boxing, would have fallen by the wayside given the restrictions enforced across the UK but Atang sensed an opportunity.

“What motivated me at that time was thinking how many people would have given up,” he says. “I always thought, any second now, this lockdown will end and I will be ahead of the game because of my training.

“I used to Facetime my coach and do boxing sessions like that, I’d be doing all my runs and press ups and everything else I could. I started lockdown at 55kg and came out at 78kg.”

The end of lockdown ushered in a new period of amateur success for the teenager but, with word beginning to spread about his talent, bouts were all of a sudden hard to come by. There were few coaches ready and willing to throw their own prospects in with Atang, who, despite doing all the right things, felt like he was dying on the vine.

Which is why he decided to make the move into professional boxing without ever competing at senior level as an amateur. It means when he makes his debut on July 5, at the Manchester Arena, it will be the first time he will be punched in the face without a headguard on.

“Not if I can avoid it,” he cracks back. “I’ve sparred without a headguard just to get a feel for it. But I want to walk out and give him a free jab straight on the nose and be like ‘ah, yeah, I’ve arrived’. This all excites me a bit more, and it makes me feel like I’m in a proper fight which is what this game is all about.

“I felt like I needed to go pro early so we can learn on the job and go from there. The last club bout I had was three years ago now. I entered the nationals this year but there were no opponents. So I would not have boxed from last November to this September when the Europeans are.

“I just thought, I can’t do this. At this age I can’t have this inactivity. So I thought, why not?”

Turning professional, particularly at heavyweight, without any senior bouts used to be unheard of but another teenage prodigy who did exactly that was Moses Itauma. At 18, he had never had a fight with a man either but he stopped his first one, Marcel Bode, after just 23 seconds of his debut and he has since charged to 12-0, 10 KOs.

All of a sudden, professional newbie Atang is making Itauma, still only 20, seem old but he is keen to pump the brakes on any comparisons with man widely considered the future of the division.

“I see a lot of people comparing us,” Atang adds. “But I think we are in totally different positions. He’s going the faster route, I’m going for the more slow route.

“I think he’s done unbelievably well and I think he’s paved the way for young heavyweights like myself to come through. I look at him and I’m in awe of some of the stuff he does and it’s class to see.

“But the people comparing us should know we’re on two completely different things. It’s an honour to get compared to him but I’m on my own journey, doing my own thing.”

When Itauma turned professional amid much fanfare when he turned 18, there was no secret made of the desire to beat Mike Tyson’s record of 20 years and four months and become history’s youngest world heavyweight champion. The deadline to do that came and went last month.

Atang, in theory, has around two years to accomplish the feat but it is refreshing to hear him laugh off the suggestion.

“That’s not for me,” he says. “I’ve gone early and I want a good few years to mature, mentally and physically. I’m a smaller heavyweight so I’ve got a lot of time to grow and learn the game. I’ll admit I’m in no position to be calling out the big boys yet, but eventually I know that’ll come. I believe in myself that one day it will come.

“And maybe that day will be at Wembley Stadium and there will be a school kid watching just I like was.”

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USF Athletics Offers Olympic Gold Pass

Story Links TAMPA, July 23, 2025— South Florida Athletics is giving fans a golden opportunity to support the Bulls this fall with the 2025 Olympic Gold Pass, available now for just $75.   The Olympic Gold Pass grants general admission access to all home men’s soccer, women’s soccer, and volleyball […]

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TAMPA, July 23, 2025— South Florida Athletics is giving fans a golden opportunity to support the Bulls this fall with the 2025 Olympic Gold Pass, available now for just $75.
 
The Olympic Gold Pass grants general admission access to all home men’s soccer, women’s soccer, and volleyball matches during the 2025 season. It’s the perfect way to experience the excitement of Bulls Olympic sports in person.
 
Fans can purchase their Olympic Gold Pass today at USFBullsTix.com or by calling 1-800-GoBulls. Don’t miss a minute of the action – grab your pass and cheer on the Bulls all season long!
 
About USF Athletics
USF Athletics sponsors 21 varsity teams, with 20 competing at the NCAA Division I level in the American Athletic Conference, including the recent additions of women’s lacrosse and women’s beach volleyball. The Bulls’ athletic program, founded in 1965, is in its 59th season.
 
Nearly 500 student-athletes train and compete in the Tampa General Hospital Athletics District on the east end of USF’s Tampa campus. The Bulls have won 154 conference titles across 16 sports, with 82 men’s championships and 72 women’s championships. Men’s tennis and men’s soccer lead with 20 titles each, while women’s programs have been headlined by women’s tennis (14) and volleyball (13). Since joining the American Athletic Conference in 2013, USF has secured 36 conference team titles.
 
Academically, USF student-athletes have achieved a program-record 21 consecutive semesters with a combined GPA of 3.0 or above as of fall 2024. Since 2015, more than 750 Bulls have earned their degrees.
 
Follow South Florida Athletics
For the latest updates from USF Athletics, visit GoUSFBulls.com. Follow USF Athletics on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
 
Get your tickets today!
Call 1-800-GO-BULLS (1-800-462-8557) or email BullsTickets@usf.edu to claim your season or single-game tickets. You can also download the USF Bulls app on the Android or Apple stores to purchase tickets and parking. Visit USFBullsTix.com for more information.
 

#GoBulls





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The University of Colorado, Lawmakers Celebrate New State Law Supporting Student-Athlete Name, Image, and Likeness

University of Colorado Athletics hosted a special luncheon to recognize the many people who were instrumental in passing HB25-1041, a new state law that allows universities to compensate student-athletes for their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, while also providing student-athlete privacy protection of that compensation.   In attendance were the sponsors of the bill, Senate […]

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University of Colorado Athletics hosted a special luncheon to recognize the many people who were instrumental in passing HB25-1041, a new state law that allows universities to compensate student-athletes for their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, while also providing student-athlete privacy protection of that compensation.  

In attendance were the sponsors of the bill, Senate President James Coleman, Senator Judy Amabile, and Representative Lesley Smith. Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, a supporter of the bill, was also on hand, as were representatives from Governor Jared Polis’s office. University of Colorado Board of Regents Ray Scott, Ilana Spiegel, and Mark VanDriel were also there to give their support and thanks. 

University of Colorado President Todd Saliman, University of Colorado Boulder Chancellor Justin Schwartz, and Athletic Director Rick George all spoke to express their gratitude for the hard work in getting the bill passed.  

“This new Colorado law is critical to our student-athletes and their ability to realize the value of their many contributions on and off the field,” said CU President Saliman. “The effort to get here wasn’t without its challenges and I am particularly proud that we were able to ensure our student-athletes’ privacy as they navigate these formative years in education and sport.”

“All of us at CU Boulder are excited for the passage of this bill, which supports and protects our student-athletes as they find success across athletics and academics,” said Chancellor Schwartz. “Buffs are bold. We are strong. We are innovative. We live out those values across our campus, including in our athletic program .We aim to lead not just in competition but in building within our student-athletes the foundation for a successful life.”   

“With the House settlement, which requires universities to share revenue with student-athletes, going into effect on July 1, this bill makes it possible for CU to enter this new era of college athletics on a foundation that will give us the best chance for success,” said Athletic Director George. “This is just the beginning and a lot is going to change as we continue to navigate these unprecedented times, but I am confident that thanks to this bill, CU Athletics is positioned for success in competition, in the classroom, and in the community now and for years to come.”  

Among those who were present to celebrate the bill were those who are impacted the most, CU student-athletes and coaches. Student-athletes Riley Burkey (track & field) and Ben Finneseth (football) joined head men’s basketball coach Tad Boyle, football offensive coordinator Pat Schurmur, and football defensive coordinator Rob Livingston in personally thanking those who worked on the bill.  

After lunch, the group gathered for a photo before taking a tour of the UC Health Champions Center.    



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Mountain West announces updated 2025 conference volleyball schedule with addition of GCU

Story Links RENO, Nev. – With the addition of GCU earlier this month, the Mountain West has announced the updated 2025 conference volleyball schedule.  Nevada will kick-off conference play on September 25 with a two-game road trip. In total for conference games, the Wolf Pack will have nine home matches and be on the […]

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RENO, Nev. – With the addition of GCU earlier this month, the Mountain West has announced the updated 2025 conference volleyball schedule. 

Nevada will kick-off conference play on September 25 with a two-game road trip. In total for conference games, the Wolf Pack will have nine home matches and be on the road nine times.

The 2025 season as a whole will begin on August 29th in Ogden, Utah, where the Pack will compete in the Weber State Tournament. Preseason will consist of three tournaments total, one of which Nevada will host in mid-September.

Following the completion of the regular season, the Wolf Pack will look to make a run in the Mountain West Conference Tournament, taking place from November 26 to November 29.

Times have yet to be announced for conference matches, but all dates opponents for Nevada are listed below for the upcoming 2025 season:

August

Friday, August 29, 10 AM – vs Weber State#

Friday, August 29, 5 PM – vs Southern Utah#

Saturday, August 30, 1 PM – vs UC Irvine#

September

Thursday, September 4, 12 PM – vs NC State&

Friday, September 5, 12 PM – vs Kansas State&

Thursday, September 11, 6 PM – vs Eastern Washington@

Friday, September 12, 5 PM – vs University of the Pacific@

Saturday, September 13, 12:30 PM – vs CSU Bakersfield@

Thursday, September 18, 7 PM – vs Montana State^

Friday, September 19, 5 PM – vs Santa Clara^

Thursday, September 25 – at Air Force*

Saturday, September 27 – at Colorado State*

October

Thursday, October 2 – vs UNLV*

Saturday, October 4 – vs San Diego State*

Thursday, October 9 – at San José State*

Saturday, October 11 – at Fresno State*

Thursday, October 16 – vs Wyoming*

Saturday, October 18 – vs Colorado State*

Thursday, October 23 – at Wyoming*

Saturday, October 25 – vs Air Force*

Thursday, October 30 – at New Mexico*

November

Saturday, November 1 – at GCU*

Thursday, November 6 – vs Fresno State*

Saturday, November 8 – vs San José State*

Thursday, November 13 – vs New Mexico*

Saturday, November 15 – vs GCU*

Thursday, November 20 – at Boise State*

Saturday, November 22 – at Utah State*

Bold dates are home games

*Conference Games

#Weber State Tournament

&Kansas State Tournament

@Nevada Invitational

^Montana State Tournament



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The562.Org’s All-City Athletes of the Year 2024-25 – The562.org

At the end of each school year, The562 takes pride in celebrating the top athletes, performances, and achievements from across the city. We begin our All-City awards by honoring the standout individual performers in each sport as our All-City Athletes of the Year. Stay tuned for The562’s selections for the overall Boys and Girls Athletes […]

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At the end of each school year, The562 takes pride in celebrating the top athletes, performances, and achievements from across the city. We begin our All-City awards by honoring the standout individual performers in each sport as our All-City Athletes of the Year. Stay tuned for The562’s selections for the overall Boys and Girls Athletes of the Year, along with additional honors including Top Moments, Coach of the Year, Game of the Year, and more.

Anthony league

Football: Anthony League, Millikan

Millikan’s historic Moore League title was one of the most memorable moments from high school football season, and League was a big part of making it happen. Running behind an experienced and physical offensive line, League set Millikan’s single-season rushing record in 2024 with 1,640 yards on the ground. He averaged an impressive 9.8 yards per carry and racked up 23 rushing TDs. He also caught four TD passes with 379 receiving yards, and made 52 tackles on defense as a linebacker. He’s headed to Cal in the fall and could be an immediate contributor for the Golden Bears.

Dear + moore

Girls’ Volleyball: Kristen Dear / Layla Moore, Long Beach Poly

Long Beach Poly senior Kristen Dear had a special senior season. She starred at middle blocker on Poly’s Moore League championship team, helped lead them to a CIF-SS championship, and was named Moore League Co-MVP. Dear wasn’t done there, as she has signed a collegiate scholarship with Howard University to continue her playing career.

Layla Moore also left her stamp on the sport this year. Moore starred at middle blocker for the Jackrabbits and helped lead them to a Moore League and a CIF-SS championship. Moore was co-Moore League MVP and was named the CIF Southern Section Player of the Year. Moore is headed to the Big West, signing a scholarship with CSUN.

Fearence valenzuela

Girls’ Golf: Loren Fearance, Long Beach Poly / Victoria Valenzuela, St. Anthony

Long Beach Poly freshman Loren Fearance won the Moore League championship, with a -3 performance over 36 holes played around the city. She’s the first Jackrabbit to win the title since 2012 and just the second freshman in Moore League girls’ golf history to bring home the individual championship.

St. Anthony senior Victoria Valenzuela made history this year, winning her third consecutive Del Relay League individual championship, holding off an illness to win the title by two strokes. Valenzuela also won her second consecutive Long Beach Golf Festival junior title in the summer before her senior season kicked off.

Avery peck

Girls’ Cross Country: Avery Peck, Long Beach Poly

Peck returned to the top of the podium at Moore League finals this past year, running a time of 17:27 to claim the second individual Moore League title of her career. She dropped over a minute off her time from 2023, and helped lead Poly to another team title as the Jackrabbits produced three of the top four finishers. Peck was able to bide her time at league finals as she waited out rival Nadia Mejia of Wilson for the first half of the race. Eventually, Peck pulled away for a 26-second margin of victory over the field.

Jack brown

Boys’ Cross Country: Jack Brown, Millikan

The Millikan Rams continued their recent dominance over Moore League boys’ cross country this past season. Brown was a key member of the senior class that brought home consecutive league titles for the first time in 40 years. He claimed the individual title with a 15:29 at Heartwell Park, leading a pack of six Rams in the top nine spots at league finals. Brown was also the city’s top runner at the CIF-SS finals, earning a Top 50 finish with a time of 16:02.5 at Mt. SAC.

Screenshot 2024 10 30 at 6.23.59 pm

Girls’ Tennis: Mandy Oliveros, CAMS

Mandy Oliveros reestablished herself as the top girls’ tennis singles player in the Moore League this year. The CAMS sophomore won the same title as a freshman when she led her team to a Moore League championship and CIF-SS Division 5 title. Oliveros is one of the best tennis players the Moore League has seen in recent years, currently ranked in the Top 25 for youth tennis players in California.

Emerson laporta

Boys’ Water Polo: Emerson LaPorta, Long Beach Poly

Emerson LaPorta had an impressive season at Long Beach Poly this year, capping it off by being named Co-Moore League Player of the Year. The senior captain led his team to a top two finish in the Moore League with a hat trick, three steals and two assists against Millikan in the second-place game. LaPorta also shined against powerhouse Wilson, scoring two goals against the Bruins including one go-ahead at the first quarter buzzer. LaPorta is going on to play water polo at the next level when he attends Pomona-Pitzer next year.

Mclyn football

Flag Football: Aaya McLyn, Long Beach Poly

Aaya McLyn was voted Moore League Player of the Year by coaches and delivered one of the most decorated flag football seasons the young sport has seen. She played in the Under Armour Next All-American Girls’ Flag Football Game, was named a finalist for the NFL’s inaugural Maxwell National Player of the Year Award, represented the Los Angeles Rams at the NFL’s awards, and competed in the LA Chargers Flag Football All-Star Game.

WINTER

Allin wintershoot 020

Boys’ Basketball: Jovani Ruff, Long Beach Poly

Long Beach Poly senior Jovani Ruff left his mark on the city this year, leading the Jackrabbits to another undefeated Moore League title and a Division 1 playoff berth. Ruff also scored 51 points in his regular season finale, setting a new single-game scoring record for the Jackrabbits. He set a new city record for career points by crossing the 2k point mark and finishing with 2,063. Ruff is signed with Cal to play college basketball.

Joy nyemah

Girls’ Basketball: Joy Anderson, Long Beach Poly / Nyemah King, Lakewood

Poly was able to go 12-0 in Moore League play once again this season, and Anderson’s senior leadership was a big reason why. She did a little bit of everything for the Jackrabbits as they ran their league winning streak up to 211 consecutive games. Anderson had 20 points and 17 rebounds in Poly’s second victory over Lakewood, and averaged a team-leading 17.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 4.1 steals per game, earning Moore League Player of the Year honors.

This year was the culmination of King’s reign as the Moore League scoring queen. She averaged 26.7 points per game as a senior for the Lancers, the highest mark of her career. King scored double digits in every game, scoring over 30 points on 11 occasions, with a pair of 40-point games on her resume. She’ll stay nearby to hoop at the next level, signing with Cal State Fullerton.

Vasquez

Boys’ Soccer: Juan Vasquez, Millikan

Juan Vasquez was named boys’ soccer Most Valuable Player in the Moore League and finished his senior campaign with 24 goals while leading Millikan to a league championship. The midfielder had one hat-trick and six different braces throughout the season while scoring at least one goal in 16 of the Rams’ 24 games.

Mclyn soccer

Girls’ Soccer: Aaya McLyn, Long Beach Poly

Aaya McLyn makes another appearance on the All-City list after a girls’ soccer season in which she was named Midfielder of the Year. The senior led Long Beach Poly to the CIF-SS Division 3 championship game and is committed to continue her soccer career at Washington State University.

Chris anguiano

Boys’ Wrestling: Chris Anguiano, Millikan 

Chris Anguiano had a lot of pressure to perform coming into this year of boys’ wrestling – and he did not disappoint. The sophomore was named an All-American and placed at the 2024 US Open and 2024 preseason Nationals tournaments. He also placed at the California USA Wrestling State championships, earning spots to represent Team California at the USA National Wrestling Championships in Fargo, North Dakota. Anguiano had an important win in Millikan’s sweep over Wilson that helped them win their 15th consecutive Moore League championship and was subsequently named the All-Moore League Wrestler of the Year.

Ashley wafer

Girls’ Wrestling: Ashley Wafer, Lakewood 

Ashley Wafer has established herself as one of the top girls’ wrestlers in the Moore League, and this year was no different. Wafer was the reigning Moore League Wrestler of the Year, and she captured that title again for the 2024-25 season. She also won the CIF-SS title as the 235 lb wrestling champion after a season full of dominant wins for Lakewood. 

Katherina o

Girls’ Water Polo: Katherine O’Dea, Wilson

Katherine O’Dea closed out her Moore League girls’ water polo career the only way she knew she could: with pure dominance. The senior, who has been playing as part of the USA Women’s Youth and Senior National teams, led her team to an undefeated season in the Moore League. O’Dea was the Moore League Player of the Year in 2024 and 2025 and will go on the play at the next level when she attends UCLA in the fall. 

SPRING

Rudy + pack

Baseball: Anthony Pack, Millikan / Rudy Carlos Jr., Wilson

Pack helped lead Millikan to a share of the Moore League title as a five-tool player in center field who added a dynamic presence to the batting order. His .490 on-base percentage led the way for the Rams, along with his 29 runs scored and 11 stolen bases. The University of Texas commit is also a coveted draft prospect who projects well at the next level. He was named the Moore League Player of the Year in each of the last two seasons to close out his high school career.

Wilson’s power-hitting first baseman helped anchor an improved Bruins offense as they earned a share of the Moore League crown. Carlos led the squad with a .424 batting average for his senior season, with an impressive .671 slugging percentage. He led all Bruin batsmen with 36 hits, 14 doubles and 24 RBIs and provided solid defense over at first.

Cantwell + lam sam

Softball: Lauren Cantwell, Millikan / Emoni Lam Sam, Long Beach Poly

After waiting her turn behind some talented pitchers, Cantwell finally got her time to shine as Millikan’s ace and she did not disappoint. The Moore League Pitcher of the Year was dominant against league rivals, holding them to a batting average below .100, and racking up 90 strikeouts in 51 innings pitched. Overall, the Vanguard signee posted a 1.29 ERA on the season, with 157 K’s in 103 innings pitched, finishing the year with a 15-4 record. Cantwell had eight double-digit strikeout performances, with a season-high of 13 against Lakewood and Long Beach Poly less than a week apart.

The Poly Jackrabbits made history this season, winning the school’s first-ever CIF-SS softball championship, and Lam Sam was a big reason why. The junior third baseman hit .511 with a .619 on-base percentage, and a team-leading 1.710 OPS. She led an explosive Poly offense in hits (45), runs scored (47), RBIs (50), walks (18) and home runs (11), while also playing solid defense at the hot corner. Her best game of the year came against Saint Joseph, when she collected five hits, including three home runs, to go along with five RBIs and four runs scored in a Jackrabbit victory.

Screenshot

Girls’ Lacrosse: Emerson May, Wilson

May has been a three-year captain in goal for the Bruins, earning first-team All-Moore League honors in each of those seasons. As a junior this year, she earned Moore League Player of the Year honors while leading the Bruins to their second league title in a row. May posted a save percentage above .750 as Wilson’s last line of defense, and collected over 120 saves during league play.

Zeth gonzales

Boys’ Lacrosse: Zeth Gonzales, Long Beach Poly

Part of a loaded senior class of 18 graduates, Gonzales was a reliable presence in goal for the Jackrabbits as they claimed a share of the Moore League title in 2025. An All-Moore League first team selection in each of the past three seasons, Gonzales was chosen as the Moore League Player of the Year in 2025 after anchoring a strong Jackrabbits defense. Thanks in large part to Gonzales’ proficiency in front of goal, Poly recorded a pair of shutouts this season and 10 times held opponents to three goals or fewer.

Kylie montiel

Girls’ Swim: Kylie Montiel, Millikan

Montiel was a standout at Moore League finals, winning a pair of individual races for the Rams while also leading the 200 medley relay to victory to start the meet. Montiel swam a 58.37 to take gold in the 100 butterfly, and also finished first in the 100 backstroke with a time of 58.13. She then advanced to the CIF-SS Division 2 meet, where she finished fourth in the 100 backstroke and eighth in the 100 butterfly. The senior will swim for Biola University next season.

Lucas jue

Boys’ Swim: Lucas Jue, Long Beach Poly

The junior continued Poly’s run of standout swimmers this year, and Jue was the standout at the Moore League swim finals for the Jackrabbits. He led Poly’s 200 medley relay to gold, then promptly set a new Moore League record with a time of 1:38.21 in the 200 freestyle. Jue won his second individual gold in the 100 backstroke, swimming a 48.31 to break the meet record in that race. The Louisville commit also showed well at CIF, earning silver in both the 200 IM (1:49.51) and the 500 freestyle (4:27.40) in Division 1.

Brian habacon

Boys’ Badminton: Brian Habacon, Cabrillo 

Brian Habacon captured the Moore League boys’ badminton singles title for the Cabrillo Jaguars this season. The senior swept all his opponents, including his own teammates, on his way to the title victory. He defeated Poly’s Peter You 21-9, 24-22 in the championship match.

Nga pham

Girls’ Badminton: Nga Pham, Long Beach Poly

Nga Pham had one thing on her mind going into this year’s Moore League badminton finals: redemption. Pham had a successful season in 2024, earning All-League honors despite falling short in the finals. This year, Pham proved why she was the top-ranked player in her bracket by sweeping all of her opponents, including in the championship match where she defeated Lakewood’s Cecilia Fonseca 21-9, 21-13

Fiona lobedecis

Girls’ Dive: Fiona Lobedecis, Long Beach Poly

Long Beach Poly’s Fiona Lobedecis has been a standout diver in the Moore League throughout her time as a Jackrabbit. She capped off her senior season with a CIF State Championship after posting a score of 505.35. Lobedecis was the 2024 Moore League
Diver of the Year and holds the school record for her dive score at last year’s CIF State Finals, where she posted a 508.20 Lobedecis will join the University of Michigan’s Dive team in the fall.

Esqueda

Gymnastics: Eva Esqueda, Millikan

In the final year of gymnastics in the Moore League, Eva Esqueda was named Moore League Gymnast of the Year after delivering the top all-around performance at the league finals in May. She placed in the top three in three of the four events and won the bars.

Barnes

Boys’ Golf: Bodie Barnes, Wilson

Bodie Barnes dominated three rounds of boys’ golf to win the Moore League individual championship at El Dorado Park Golf Course in May. He finished with a 299, keeping the championship trophy in the family after his brother Bryson won it last year.

Tsao + turner

Boys’ Volleyball: Matthew Tsao, Long Beach Poly / Marek Turner, Wilson

Matthew Tsao helped Long Beach Poly boys’ volleyball win its first undefeated Moore League championship since 2014. The senior outside hitter led the Jackrabbits in kills throughout the season.

USA Volleyball’s Marek Turner led Wilson to a second-place finish in the Moore League during his senior year. The opposite/outside hitter is committed to continue his volleyball career at UCLA.

Wetteland + webster + edwards

Girls’ Track: Jill Wetteland, Long Beach Poly / Loren Webster, Wilson / Kaylin Edwards, Wilson

Long Beach Poly’s Jill Wetteland won both a CIF-SS and CIF State championship in the high jump. The senior cleared 5’7” at the state finals in Clovis and is committed to continue her career next year at Harvard.

Wilson’s Loren Webster competed in three events at the CIF-SS track finals and capped her high school career with a CIF State championship in the girls’ long jump. Webster jumped 21 feet, ¼ inch at the state meet in Clovis—a new personal record on the biggest stage.

Kaylin Edwards anchored Wilson to a state championship in the girls’ 4x100m relay—one of her three events at the state finals in Clovis. She was also the CIF-SS champion in the 100m hurdles and 300m hurdles.

Obando + smith

Boys’ Track: Wyland Obando, Wilson / Noah Smith, Long Beach Poly

Wyland Obando competed in three events at the CIF State track finals and won the state championship in the boys’ 800m. He was also part of Wilson’s 4x400m relay team that set a new school record at the finals in Clovis.

Noah Smith anchored Long Beach Poly to a new school record in the 4x400m at the CIF State track finals in Clovis. Smith was also the Moore League champion in the boys’ 400m and placed second at CIF.

Calderone adams

Beach Volleyball: Simrin Adams/Sadie Calderone, Wilson

Wilson’s Simrin Adams and Sadie Calderone were the city’s best beach volleyball pair this year by a good margin, and the duo made it a Spring to remember. They led Wilson to a Moore League team title and claimed the league pairs title in dominating fashion, winning 21-8, 21-11. Then they led the Bruins to their first-ever CIF-SS beach volleyball championship, with a win over league foe Millikan in the championship.

Bauch

Boys’ Tennis: Leo Bauch, Wilson

Wilson senior Leo Bauch wouldn’t let anything keep him from the Moore League tennis singles title this year–not even an injury. Even with his back and legs tightening and camping, Bauch battled against teammate Douglas Smith to win the league title 4-6, 6-3, 10-8. “I just had to change my play style and power through,” said Bauch. “I had a lot of people watching me and supporting me, which is really great.”



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The Salt Lake Bees defeated the Albuquerque Isotopes 3-0 on Tuesday night Published: July 23, 2025, 4:16 p.m. MDT By Isaac Hale Share On Tuesday night, the Salt Lake Bees started their six-game series with the Albuquerque Isotopes with a 3-0 win. Deseret News photographer Isaac Hale captured some scenes from the game. Fans watch […]

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The Salt Lake Bees defeated the Albuquerque Isotopes 3-0 on Tuesday night

On Tuesday night, the Salt Lake Bees started their six-game series with the Albuquerque Isotopes with a 3-0 win.

Deseret News photographer Isaac Hale captured some scenes from the game.

Fans watch a play unfold during a Minor League Baseball game between the Salt Lake Bees and the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees pitcher Dakota Hudson hands a ball he signed to SoJo Tropics pitcher Zeek Thatcher before a Minor League Baseball game against the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Bumble prepares to throw out the first pitch before a Minor League Baseball game between the Salt Lake Bees and the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees infielder Yolmer Sánchez (8) throws the ball to first base for an out after fielding it during a Minor League Baseball game against the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Lucas Murillo, 10, of Los Angeles, Calif., watches a play unfold during a Minor League Baseball game between the Salt Lake Bees and the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
A play unfolds during a Minor League Baseball game between the Salt Lake Bees and the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees pitcher Dakota Hudson (26) delivers a pitch against the Albuquerque Isotopes during a Minor League Baseball game held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees catcher Zach Humphreys (16) bunts the ball during a Minor League Baseball game against the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees infielders Yolmer Sánchez, left, and Scott Kingery take the field between innings during a Minor League Baseball game against the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Albuquerque Isotopes pitcher Karl Kauffmann (57) delivers a pitch against the Salt Lake Bees during a Minor League Baseball game held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees infielder Niko Kavadas (7) fields the ball during a Minor League Baseball game against the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees outfielder Tucker Flint (34) beats the tag by Albuquerque Isotopes infielder Jose Torres (6) after Flint led off of second base during a Minor League Baseball game between the Salt Lake Bees and the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
A batter sports the Minor League Baseball (MiLB) logo on their jersey as they warm up during a Minor League Baseball game between the Salt Lake Bees and the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Albuquerque Isotopes pitcher Karl Kauffmann (57) adjusts his hat as he is subbed out in the bottom of the second inning during a Minor League Baseball game against the Salt Lake Bees held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
A play unfolds during a Minor League Baseball game between the Salt Lake Bees and the Albuquerque Isotopes held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees outfielder Gustavo Campero (2) safely slides to third base after hitting a triple against the Albuquerque Isotopes during a Minor League Baseball game held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Salt Lake Bees outfielder Gustavo Campero (2) celebrates at third base after hitting a triple against the Albuquerque Isotopes during a Minor League Baseball game held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
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Newport Beach 12-and-under boys nab USA Water Polo Junior Olympics silver

IRVINE — The Newport Beach Water Polo Club 12-and-under boys certainly became more than familiar with Del Mar during the course of the club season. The teams played six times, and Tuesday’s gold medal match of the USA Water Polo Junior Olympics might have been the closest of all. In the end, Del Mar goalkeeper Braxton Harp […]

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The Newport Beach Water Polo Club 12-and-under boys certainly became more than familiar with Del Mar during the course of the club season.

The teams played six times, and Tuesday’s gold medal match of the USA Water Polo Junior Olympics might have been the closest of all.

In the end, Del Mar goalkeeper Braxton Harp came up big.

Harp earned MVP honors, making two saves in a penalty shootout that Del Mar won 4-1 at Woollett Aquatics Center.

The teams were tied 10-10 after regulation, but only Pierce Clymer could score for Newport Beach in the shootout that followed.

“Honestly, they played their hearts out,” Newport Beach 12U coach Konstantinos Koulouris said of his silver-medal winners. “They played so good. We were locked in from the beginning and very focused. I’m so proud of them for all of the performances that they had the whole weekend. It’s hard to beat a team that you’ve lost to four times, you know.”

Tanner Thomas (11) of the Newport Beach 12-and-under water polo team throws in a goal on Tuesday.

Tanner Thomas (11) of the Newport Beach 12-and-under water polo team throws in a goal on Tuesday.

(Don Leach / Staff Photographer)

Del Mar improved to 4-2 against Newport Beach in the club season, including an 11-9 victory in the Junior Olympic quarterfinals on Monday. But the locals from Newport didn’t quit there, beating Mission in a play-in game to the semifinals, where they edged Vanguard 7-7 (3-1 in a shootout) on Tuesday morning.

Clymer led Newport Beach with four goals in the gold medal match, and Tanner Thomas scored three. Dalton Horne added a pair of goals.

Hayden Stout (10) of the Newport Beach 12-and-under team takes a long shot at the Woollett Aquatics Center in Irvine.

Hayden Stout (10) of the Newport Beach 12-and-under team takes a long shot at the Woollett Aquatics Center in Irvine on Tuesday.

(Don Leach / Staff Photographer)

Playing at center, Evan Shackelford scored a late goal that gave Newport a 10-9 lead, and he also drew eight exclusions and a penalty shot in the final.

“Obviously, I want to score, that’s my priority,” Shackelford said. “But if I have to, I’ll let go of the ball if [the defender] is on my back all of the time. I just want to shoot and score and celebrate with my teammates.”

Shackelford and Thomas helped Newport Beach foul out three Del Mar players. Del Mar finished the game without any substitutes available.

Dalton Horne (5) of the Newport Beach 12-and-under team moves in for a goal in Irvine on Tuesday.

Dalton Horne (5) of the Newport Beach 12-and-under team moves in for a goal in Irvine on Tuesday.

(Don Leach / Staff Photographer)

“That’s our game plan,” Koulouris said. “We tried to find small entry passes, draw the ejections and play quick. That’s what they did … We tried to make some plays in order to put one more kid out, but it didn’t work out. They’re 12, and they’re under pressure.

“It’s a great lesson for them for the years after, right? They’re going to play this team again multiple times in the future, maybe until they go to college. Del Mar is a great program, they work hard and they have a great coaching staff.”

Goalkeeper Finn Breneman made eight saves for Newport Beach, and Hayden Stout had three steals. Other contributors included Stryder Gregory, Griffin Harvey, Oliver Horowitz, Pierson Nichols, Wyatt Robinson, Logan Jameson and Cameron Berman.

Evan Shackleford (9) of the Newport Beach 12-and-under team fires in a tying goal late in the game against Del Mar.

Evan Shackleford (9) of the Newport Beach 12-and-under team fires in a tying goal late in the game against Del Mar on Tuesday.

(Don Leach / Staff Photographer)

Del Mar’s Attila McCollum scored a late equalizer to send the match to overtime, one of his three goals, and Jason Robinson led the winners with four goals.

All of the Newport Beach players will be aging up to the 14-and-under age group next year, and they do hope to meet up with Del Mar again in the future.

“I think we showed up pretty well,” Thomas said. “There were definitely things we needed to work on toward the end. It kept on going back and forth, which does get a little stressful at times. A few adjustments we need to make, and hopefully we can be back here in a few years with the same team and win it all.”

Newport Beach 10Us, Vanguard 12Us earn bronze in top division

Other local boys’ club teams also grabbed medals during Session One of the Junior Olympics. They included Newport Beach Blue 10U (bronze in platinum division), Newport Beach White 10U (bronze in gold division), Vanguard 12U (bronze in platinum division), Newport Beach White 12U (silver in classic bracket), Corona del Mar 14U (silver in gold division), Costa Mesa Aquatics Club 14U (bronze in invitational bracket), Vanguard Silver 16U (bronze in invitational bracket) and Vanguard Silver 18U (bronze in classic bracket).

Session Two, which features co-ed and female age divisions, begins Thursday and runs through Sunday.



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