In the final National Signing Day of the 2022-2023 academic year, Orange Lutheran honored 18 senior athletes across 10 sports as they made their college commitments to continue their playing careers at the next level.
On April 24, 2023, OLu hosted two ceremonies in the Ellwein Center as families, friends, teammates and coaches gathered to celebrate the student athletes’ accomplishments. Orange Lutheran Athletic Director Vince Brown opened the festivities and welcomed the guests.
“We welcome you to a great morning,” said Brown. “I’m excited to see so many teammates and families of our student athletes. Mornings like this are extremely special. The opportunity of all the work, all the dedication, everything that has been put in to being successful, they now get a chance to sit in front of their friends, parents, faculty and staff and have this signing day as a representation of what all their hard work has accomplished. God has been good to them. They've been very successful, and we're excited for them.”
Women’s Volleyball
Four-year varsity outside hitter Paige Buzzerio has committed to playing volleyball for the United States Naval Academy. A multi-year 1st Team All-League and All-CIF honoree, Buzzerio was part of OLu’s 2021 squad that won the Trinity League title.
“It has been such a joy and honor watching you grow from an underclassman to pushing yourself as a leader in your senior year,” said OLu volleyball head coach Henry Valiente. “You have put in a lot of hard work, sweat and tears to get where you are today, not just on the volleyball court, but in the classroom, through your journey of being accepted into the Naval Academy. None of this is an easy feat. Continue to grow your faith and remember to strive for the best. Always put your best foot forward and stay true to yourself. You can accomplish anything with determination, grit and hard work. We will always be rooting you on. With God as your guiding light, we know that you will continue to do amazing things both on and off the court.”
An integral part of the Lancers volleyball program, Buzzerio was also a member of OLu’s inaugural year for beach volleyball in 2022 and joined the indoor varsity squad last fall on the program’s first tournament trip to Hawaii. In addition to playing volleyball for the Midshipmen, Buzzerio is making a commitment to serve our country.
“Thank you so much to everyone who has been a role model and mentor in my life,” said Buzzerio. “I am so grateful for the opportunities this sport has given me, and I can't wait to see how it continues to bless me these next four years.”
Women’s Golf
Lancer golfer Stella Fergin has signed to continue her playing career at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington. A four-year member of the varsity squad, Fergin was a two-time captain and a two-time 2nd Team All-Trinity League honoree.
“Stella's a worker,” said OLu girls golf head coach Dustin Boburka. “Every single season she would come back with a new aspect to her game. She would always reflect back on her season and see what aspect of her game let her down, and that would be the priority during the offseason. The high standard that she has made on our program as a leader and incredible teammate will be a lasting legacy. All these accolades are amazing, but none of them define who she is. She's defined by her faith in her savior. He has a plan and a purpose for all of us, and I can't wait to see what he has in store for you, Stella, as you graduate Orange Lutheran and take your next steps.”
Fergin was an integral part of what Boburka referred to as a “massive shift” in the OLu girls golf program over the past four years, as she helped the Lancers earn back-to-back 2nd place Trinity League finishes and a 5th place team finish in the 2022 CIF Division 1 playoffs, all while maintaining a 4.4 GPA in the classroom.
“I would like to thank my family, coaches and Christ for this amazing opportunity to play golf at the college level,” said Fergin. “I am excited for what the future holds!”
Football
Varsity offensive lineman Inoke Samita will be heading to Minot State University to continue his football career. Referred to by OLu football head coach Rod Sherman as the “epitome of toughness,” Samita faced the passing of his mother in his home state of Hawaii during his junior year, but remained at OLu, determined to reach his goals.
“Inoke had an amazing senior football season, and he has the best grades he's ever had,” said Sherman. “What he's done the last few semesters is absolutely incredible. When I think of you, I think about some of the great leaders in Scripture. These incredible figureheads of faith, David or Paul, they didn't have straight lines. And we know your life so far hasn't been a straight line. God is going to use that to impact people.”
Sherman credited the many people around Samita, including OLu Athletic Academic Advisor Kyla Laulhere and OLO Academic Advisor Amy Leon, for stepping in during a difficult time to provide him key guidance and support.
“I would like to thank my people, Semisi and Sharon, for taking care of me and for investing into my dreams,” said Samita. “I would also like to thank the OLu football organization for a memorable three years and for providing me relationships with those who I can call my brothers. I would like to thank Ms. Lo (Laulhere) for keeping accountable during the years and for believing in me. My family and friends and to all who have been supporting me, thank you. Last, but not least, I would like to give thanks to the man above. Truly without having God in my life, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. Go Beavers!”
Keon Washington has signed to continue his football career at the University of Nebraska Kearney. After recovering from a significant knee injury that sidelined him for most of his junior year, Washington came back with a strong senior season, playing all positions in the Lancers’ secondary, as well as special teams.
“When I think of Keon, the word that continues to come to my head is perseverance, how he battled through this incredible knee injury and persevered,” said Sherman. “Galatians 6:9 says, ‘Let us not become weary of doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap the harvest if we do not give up.’ That last phrase is Keon – If we do not give up. We are so thankful, Keon, for who you are, what you’ve done and what God is going to continue to do in your life.”
Washington also got it done in the classroom his senior year, earning his highest academic marks. Additionally, he will be the first in his family to attend college.
“I just want to say thank you to my family, coaches and my trainers,” said Washington. “Without them, it would be impossible.”
Men’s Water Polo
Four-year varsity water polo player Cody Chastain will be heading to Cal Lutheran University to continue his playing career.
“Cody is a tenacious competitor,” said OLu Director of Aquatics Brenda Villa. “That was the first thing I noticed about him when I began coaching here this past summer. His competitive drive in the water was a tremendous asset to the success of our team this year. Cody continuously works to improve his skills through countless hours spent in the water after practice. His competitive drive was seen throughout the year as he played nearly 90% of every minute. Cody, remember, hard work and determination will always lead you to success if you follow your heart and pursue your passions. I hope to hear great things about you next year and beyond as you continue your athletic career. Congratulations to you and to your family for this great achievement.”
After winning a CIF title in 2021 with Yorba Linda High School, Chastain transferred to OLu for his senior year and helped the Lancers win the 2022 CIF Division 1 championship, the second in program history.
“I would like to thank my parents for always being there and pushing me to get better each day,” said Chastain. “I would also like to thank all my past and present coaches for always teaching me new skills to learn. I would especially like to thank Coach Jacob Moore, as he was always pushing us to get better each practice, which ultimately led us to wining CIF.”
STUNT
The first Orange Lutheran athlete to sign a college letter of intent for the sport of STUNT, Giselle Parra has committed to Concordia University Irvine.
“I've had the honor of coaching Giselle over the past two years, and I've watched her grow in both the sport of STUNT and in the confidence and skills God has blessed her with,” said OLu STUNT head coach Shannon May. “When I think of Giselle, I think of how she knows who she is as a fearfully and wonderfully creative child of God. I reflect on her commitment over the past four years in the program and as well as dedication to not only the sport, but to her team. She truly is a servant leader that not only leads by example, but never slacks off to let others take care of the hard work. Thank you so much to Giselle for all you've done to pave the way for our athletes in this new sport.”
A three-year varsity cheerleader for the Lancers, as well as a 2nd Team All-League selection in STUNT, Parra was integral in helping to establish this fast-growing sport on campus.
“I want to thank my family for being my biggest supporters,” said Parra. “I especially want to thank my mom for always being my in-house coach. I want to thank my coaches for teaching me how to be a part of a team and how to persevere, no matter what. I will always be grateful to everyone who helped me on my journey.”
Women’s Fencing
Senior fencer Cameron Cho has signed with Boston College to continue her academic and athletic career. A four-time 1st Team All-American and All-Academic, Cho is ranked 32nd in the nation in the U17 Women’s Foil division.
“In my eyes, Cam is the perfect combination of tender and spunky,” said OLu English teacher Olivia Laven. “She's empathetic, loyal and faithful, but she is also full of energy, sarcasm and never fails to make her peers laugh. She intentionally works towards her goals and establishes what she wants for herself. She knows what she believes in and stands for, and she doesn't compromise on those things.
“I have no doubt that you will continue to excel both in your academic pursuits and your fencing career,” continued Laven. “You have worked tirelessly to hone your skills and become the best fencer you can be, and your dedication and hard work have truly paid off. My prayer is that you continue to use your God-given gifts and talents to glorify Him in all that you do, that you never allow your circumstances to harden your heart, but to deepen your faith.”
Cho thanked those in her support system for helping her achieve her goals, including her family, coach and OLu teachers.
“Firstly, I want to thank my biggest supporter, my mom; the amount of love and energy that she put towards my fencing career is incredible,” said Cho. “My sister, Taylor, was also an enormous part of my journey. Having my big sister to guide me as I grew up learning such a niche sport was an experience that I wouldn’t trade for the world. Luckily, I get to spend the next two years across the nation fencing at BC with my sister! I would also like to thank my coach, Kostas, for the numerous hours of talking and training he guided me through. Thank you to my loving friends and teachers who pushed me to be the best student and athlete I could be.”
Women’s Track and Field
Sprinter Amelia Trautman has signed to run for University of California, Irvine. Trautman is a Trinity League champion and CIF Finalist in the 400-meter event, as well as a two-time CIF Finalist in the 4 x 400 meter relay.
“In less than two years of running track, Amelia was able to earn a scholarship to attend the University of California, Irvine to continue her studies and run track,” said OLu track and field head coach Kevin Gillian. “It was because of her hard work and her dedication…and her commitment to the weight room and also the classroom, most importantly. We were blessed here at Orange Lutheran to have Amelia, and I'm very positive that UCI is going to be lucky to get you. I'll be watching and praying for you as you begin your next chapter in your life. It was really an honor to have you, and I look forward to finishing the season strong as we approach league finals and CIF.”
A team captain for the Lancers this season, Trautman is grateful to her family, coaches and Savior for helping her to realize her academic and athletic goals.
“I would like to thank my family for always supporting me and cheering me on at all my races, and in my everyday life, too,” said Trautman. “I would also like to thank my coaches who have trained me and pushed me to become the athlete I am today. Most importantly, I would like to thank God for giving me this opportunity and ability to continue to run for His glory.”
Women’s Soccer
Lancer soccer player Nina Hernandez will be continuing her playing career at the University of La Verne. A transfer to OLu for her senior year, Hernandez made an immediate impact on the pitch.
“While there were many things that excited us about Nina, her mentality, work rate and love for the game of soccer were massive for us,” said OLu girls soccer head coach Sarah Klinkenberg. “She got to work in the weight room and integrated herself to the school and soccer program immediately. She solidified her role in the team and in our program with consistent performances. We watched her grow in confidence, game after game. We will always be grateful that the Lord led you to Orange Lutheran for your senior year. You are part of an amazing legacy for OLu girls soccer, and you played a significant role in the success we had this year. We are so proud of you, and we are so excited to continue to watch your college soccer career continue.”
A natural leader and student of the game, Hernandez started the season at centerback before being moved to midfield where she thrived for the Lancers.
“Thank you to my dad for taking me out of ballet and putting cleats on my feet,” said Hernandez. “You always want the best for me, and I couldn't be more grateful. Thank you, mom, for being the best supporter and soccer mom. Thank you for filling my belly with the most delicious sopes the night before games. Thank you, Aiden, for allowing me to kick soccer balls at you. Thank you, Lucas and Roro, for always screaming, ‘Go Nini!’ when I'm on the field. I love you guys. You mean the world to me.”
Four-year varsity Lancer Morgan Goehring is headed to University of Montevallo in Alabama to continue her soccer career. The forward is a 2023 1st Team All-Trinity League selection and carries a 4.5 GPA.
“Morgan has always been one to push herself to her limits, and then push a little further to truly reach her maximum potential,” said Klinkenberg. “As Morgan stepped on campus her freshman year, I vividly remember summer tryouts, as her first day as a Lancer was my very first day as head coach. I remember thinking this group would be the ones to see the most change in the girls soccer program throughout their four years. Her focus, determination and humble positivity never wavered in her four years as a Lancer. Her can-do attitude is what led the Lancers to their first Trinity League win in years, a monumental run in CIF her junior year and the lasting impact that will continue for years to come.
“Thank you for your dedication to the Lancer jersey these past four years,” continued Klinkenberg. “Thank you for the ways that you have led with your head up, always being positive, and for the way you never settled for anything but the program's best. And thank you for your relentless pursuit to leave this program better than you found it.”
The Lancer captain was an impactful leader and helped guide the OLu girls soccer program to new heights.
“I want to thank my parents, first and foremost, for their sacrifices to help me get to this point and fulfill my forever dreams, along with my sisters, Madi and Kalin, for the constant support,” said Goehring. “I also want to thank my coaches and my best friends for always pushing me to be better and more competitive and for always supporting me in all I do on and off the field. I am so grateful for everyone in my life who has walked with me throughout this journey that is excitingly not over yet!”
Softball
Three-year varsity softball player Abbigael Roach will be continuing her playing career at Felician University in New Jersey. The 2nd Team All-Trinity League honoree and Scholar Athlete had a breakout year during her sophomore season, leading the team and the league in batting average.
“We're so excited for Abbi,” said OLu softball head coach Steve Miklos. “Felician University is getting not only a great athlete, but more importantly, a great teammate. Her hard work, dedication and support for her teammates and her sport are phenomenal. She's just a great kid, and we're just so excited. On behalf of all the softball coaches, congratulations. We're so happy for you, and we look forward to seeing what success you have at the collegiate level.”
After seeing success her sophomore year, Roach battled through a shoulder injury. Her trust and faith in God helped to keep her focused on her goal to play softball at the collegiate level.
“I have been blessed with so many amazing people in my life who helped me throughout this journey,” said Roach. “First, I want to thank God for never leaving my side during difficult times. I also want to thank my family for being my rock and doing whatever it is to make sure I am successful and happy. I want to thank my coaches for their endless amount of support and pushing me to be the best I can be. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my life for the endless love and support. I can't wait for the next four as a Golden Falcon!”
Baseball
Senior Isaac Quintanilla is headed to New York University to continue his baseball career. After battling some setbacks during his athletic journey, Quintanilla stayed focused on his goal.
“Everyone's path is a little bit different, and sometimes we don't know the path that God’s got laid out for us,” said OLu associate head baseball coach R.J. Farrell. “Once it's shown to us, we understand what his reasons were, and then it becomes a super positive aspect in our life. It's been an up and down ride for (Isaac), and he would admit that he's gone through some personal stuff. Through that, he's been really steadfast…and this shows that reward he's getting for his perseverance.”
Quintanilla recognized his family, friends and coaches for helping him through his challenges as he worked toward achieving his dream.
“First and foremost, I would like to thank my family and friends that helped me see a path through the hardships I came across,” said Quintanilla. “Secondly, I want to thank all my coaches throughout the years that aided me in becoming a better player, but most importantly, a better person.”
Senior Edward Park will be joining Quintanilla as he also will continue his baseball playing career at New York University. Park faced challenges as well, alongside taking a rigorous academic load. But he kept a growth mindset as he pursued his goals.
“Edward is taking a crazy, difficult academic workload, and through his times of learning how to time manage that and get to where he is now, he has really, really matured,” said Farrell. “He, too, has battled through some injuries in his career, and he has also found a way to keep his dream of playing college baseball alive.”
Park acknowledged the contributions of his support structure, including his family, faith, friends and OLu teachers.
“I want to first thank the man above for letting me pursue my passion for the game,” said Park. “I want to thank my parents for the endless sacrifices and support they have given me. I want to thank my coaches that gave me guidance on and off the field. I want to thank my friends who supported me and cheered me on, even during difficult times. I want to thank the teachers such as Dr. Beckenham and Mrs. Wingert for making my high school career successful.”
Right-handed pitcher Evan Miranda has signed to continue his baseball career at the University of Texas at Austin. A 2nd Team All-Trinity League selection, Miranda logged a 1.24 ERA and 5-0 record his junior year.
“Evan is a three-year member of our varsity team,” said Farrell. “Last year, you would see him closing out games for us, which he did an extremely high clip. This year, he's moved into more of a starting role for us. He's got four wins on the mound, and next year he'll be on the mound in Texas.”
Miranda thanked his support system for helping him pursue his goal of playing college baseball.
“I would like to thank my family, coaches and teammates for always helping and pushing me to get better so I can achieve my dreams,” said Miranda. “I couldn’t have done any of this without them. I would also like to thank God for the opportunity and blessing me to play the sport that I love at the collegiate level.”
Lancer first baseman JJ Robles is headed to Northern Kentucky University to play college baseball. Having played outfield and pitcher for OLu, he has found a home this season at first base and in the middle of the lineup for the Lancers.
“Maturity is exactly the definition I would use for him in his development,” said Farrell of Robles. “Where he came from as a freshman to the young man he is now is truly amazing. Proud of him is a true understatement, and I know he is going to do some really, really special things for the Norse.”
Currently during his senior season, Robles is hitting .364 for the Lancers and is third on the team in RBIs.
“I would like to thank my family, coaches and my friends for supporting me and helping me get to where I am today,” said Robles. “I would also like to thank God for giving me the ability to play at the next level.”
Right-handed pitcher Jordan Cole has committed to Pepperdine University for baseball. Composed in the most crucial of situations, Cole is a calming force on the mound for the Lancers.
“When you talk about someone who is really calm under pressure, that’s (Jordan),” says Farrell. “Composure is one of his greatest, greatest strengths. Nothing really ever fell into his lap. This young man has really had to work for his opportunities, and when he got his opportunities, he's really taken advantage of them. He’s got a steadfast approach in the way he goes about things.”
A member of the 2022 Trinity League championship squad, Cole had a 2.00 ERA and 1.095 WHIP last year during his junior season.
“First of all, I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity and ability to be able to play baseball at the next level,” said Cole. “I would also like to thank my parents for always believing in me and pushing me to the best of my ability. Also, I want to thank all my coaches, friends and mentors who have helped me along the way. I would not be here without you guys, thank you. Go Waves.”
Left-handed pitcher Nic Peterson is headed to the University of California, Santa Barbara to continue playing baseball at the collegiate level. The two-year varsity player was part of the 2022 squad that took the Trinity League title.
“He didn't play baseball here his freshman year, but instead of giving up, this young man went to work,” said Farrell of Peterson. “He is a testament to not giving up and getting the best out of yourself. Coach Borba has a saying he uses. He says that ‘every setback is a set up,’ and this man is the epitome of that definition. He went to work. He committed himself to his game. And to see that growth as a person, academically and athletically, is really, really special.”
Peterson thanked his family and the OLu coaching staff, as well as his friends and teammates, for helping get him to this moment in his athletic career.
“First, I would like to thank my parents for always believing in me and helping get me to the next level, from driving my brother and I to baseball tournaments when we were younger, to getting us a weight room in the house, they were an integral part in my development,” said Peterson. “Secondly, I would like to thank all of the Orange Lutheran coaches for helping me get better on and off the field and always believing in me. From day one, it wasn’t easy for me to make it to this moment. But without the coaches always pushing me and believing in me, this would have never come to fruition. Finally, I would like to thank my friends and teammates throughout my four years here. We have had many great times, on and off the field, and relationships that are going to last a lifetime. Again, thank you to all my family, friends and coaches for helping me get to this moment, and I am so excited to see what the future holds!”
Lancer third baseman Casey Borba will be joining teammate Evan Miranda at the University of Texas at Austin to continue his baseball career. The three-year varsity starter and 1st Team All-League and All-CIF honoree was the Trinity League Co-MVP last year for his junior season. Farrell has known Borba since he was a young boy and feels honored to have been part of his personal and athletic journey.
“To watch him grow, not only the person, but the baseball player he's become, has been really special,” said Farrell. “And to have known him for so long and be such a small part of that baseball journey has been really, really cool.”
Borba ranks near the top in many of the program’s statistical categories, has the most RBIs in OLu history and is currently tied with Lancer alum Gerrit Cole ’07 for the most home runs. He was also a member of the USA Baseball U18 National Team that won the gold medal last fall in the COPABE (Pan American Baseball Confederation) World Cup Qualifier in La Paz, Mexico.
“I would like to thank my whole entire family for always supporting me, no matter what,” said Borba. “I would like to thank my coaches for always giving their all to me, as well as the team, in order to help us be better players and men overall. I would like to thank my friends for making baseball more fun than it already is. There’s nothing like going to the field every day with the boys. Without anyone, I wouldn’t be able to do it, so thank you!”
Orange Lutheran Principal of Activities Jasmine Anderson acknowledged that none of these accomplishments would be possible without the leadership and hard work of the OLu coaching staff, as well as the sacrifice and commitment of the athletes’ parents and families. She closed the ceremonies with these words for the Lancer student athletes and their supporters.
“We are so, so proud of you,” said Anderson. “Our prayer is that you will continue to use your gifts and talents to serve the Lord, to have that be your firm foundation as you move on in this next chapter. We know that you're going to face all kinds of different challenges being college students and playing athletics at that next level. But we know that you have the Lord with you, and we can't wait to see what it is that you do next. So know that we're praying for you. We can't wait for you to come back and share your stories. And we're so, so excited and so proud of you.”
Topics from this blog: Athletics
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