Category: Athlete of the Week

Multiple Teams · Jan 23 Athlete of the Week 1/16-1/21

The Maranatha defense is anchored by senior Riley Rudio. His intensity on the field makes him a formidable force for the Minutemen. Many attacking players have found themselves quickly dispossessed of the ball when they venture into Riley’s domain. He also has laser precision on restarts, and can serve a ball deep into the attacking third of the field, resulting in many goal scoring opportunities by his teammates. His leadership has earned him a captain’s armband, and his defensive acumen has resulted in fewer goals scored against Maranatha this season.

Multiple Teams · Dec 13 Athlete of the Week 12/5/16

Chris Morales – Junior

Junior central midfielder Chris Morales went on a goal scoring run this past week. He scored twice against Temple City High School in the Maranatha home opener on December 8^th, and then gave the Minutemen their only goal against Olympic League rival Valley Christian on Saturday in the Temple City Invitational Tournament. His ability to find the back of the net, along with his creativity on the attack, will make him a dynamic element in the Minutemen offense this season. Morales now has six goals, averaging 1.2 per game, on the season and will look to add to his tally when the Minutement travel to Burbank on Tuesday and El Monte on Friday this week.

When asked about Chris, Coach Mahtani said, “Chris has become the playmaker for the team this year, playing the 10 position and forcing turnovers by the other team while transitioning the team into the attack very quickly. His tenacity on and off the ball pushes the team to level up their game. The combination of Morales and senior Jacob Bart as a forward can be deadly, especially with speedy wingers supplementing the attack.”

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Boys Junior Varsity Football, Boys Varsity Football · Nov 2 Athlete of the Week 10/17-10/22

Dmitri Mata- Senior

Senior all purpose football player, Dmitri Mata came through with a huge performance on Friday night vs. the visiting Heritage Christian Warriors. Mata’s performance catapulted the Minutemen to a thrilling 35-34 victory in a hard fought Olympic League battle. Mata had his hand in every aspect of the game and his impact was crucial to the win. He had 5 receptions for 104 yards, 56 yards in kick returns, 4 solo tackles, 9 assists on tackles, 1 fumble recovery, 1 interception, 1 blocked field goal and 1 touchdown.

When asked about Dmitri, coach Bogan said…”I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”, is Dimi’s quote. He’s one of the brightest and best players I have ever coached. He understands the game at a very, very deep level, as evidenced by his touchdown route adjustment last Friday night. He sees things that other athletes will never see.”

Multiple Teams · Oct 18 Athlete of the Week 10/10-10/15

Noelle Simpson- Senior

10/10-10/15

Senior Setter Noelle Simpson has shown great heart as she continually competes for playing time. She has been influential on assists and has won critical points throughout the year for our Lady Minutemen. In last week’s match vs. Whittier Christian, Simpson stepped up with a season-team high 51 assists and helped lead her team to victory.

“I had a lot of fun in the game, it was great to see our team work together through the whole match and I am glad I was able to positively contribute for our team.”

Girls Varsity Tennis · Oct 12 Athlete of the Week 10/3-10/8

Angela Hsieh- Junior
10/3-10/8

Angela faced some tough challenges earlier this season but has been dominant in league play, again sweeping her opponents. Hsieh won (6-0, 6-0, 6-0) versus both Heritage Christian and Valley Christian. She is a quiet leader whose actions speak louder than her words. Angela’s teammates respect and follow her lead and look to her as they seek a 5th straight Olympic League championship.

Head Coach Arthur Hsieh said, “Angela got out of the gates slowly as she fought through a mental block that I believe was partially a result of her putting so much pressure on herself to lead this team at the #1 singles spot for the first time. She wants it so bad for her team. This week, she fought through it, conquered those stumbling blocks and emerged a true winner from the inside out.”

Maranatha Minutemen