This February, the Sword & Shield recognized four winter varsity sports captains as the Athletes of the Month: Jordan Kfir of boys’ soccer, Carmen Cruz of girls’ soccer, Brooke Yeh of girls’ water polo, and Mia Ledbetter of pep squad. We admire their hard work and dedication in their sports and congratulate them on a successful season.
Boys’ Soccer
Kfir kicked off his soccer career at the early age of three. He enjoyed playing with his brother and dad and always had a good time at practices and games. Throughout the season, Kfir led the team in goals and assists, ultimately making CIF.
“My favorite memory has been the banquets we have had at UHS and being able to grow closer with my teammates,” Kfir said.
Although the team’s run in CIF ended on Feb. 7, they had an incredibly successful season. Kfir doesn’t plan on pursuing soccer in college, but he hopes to continue playing the sport he loves most for as long as he can.
Girls’ Soccer
Cruz started her soccer journey at 4, being coached by her friend’s dad. She enjoys being able to connect with her teammates who share similar interests while also having their unique personalities. She cherishes moments with the team rather than her highlights, contributing to her passion for soccer.
”My favorite memory is winning the quarterfinals at home against Chaminade,” Cruz said. “It was a really intense game, and after winning with a golden goal, we all rushed into a huge pile, which is something I’ll always remember. It was also super great to see everyone who came out to support and celebrate with us!”
Girls’ soccer had an amazing season, making it to the semifinals in their CIF run. Cruz plans on pursuing NCAA D3 soccer for a smaller school in the future, but she has a backup plan to play club soccer wherever she ends up.
Girls’ Water Polo
Yeh started playing water polo during her freshman year and continued throughout her high school career. Her favorite part about playing is the family she has made through it. Whether it’s wins, losses, or morning practices, the team always supports and pushes each other.
”My favorite memory from water polo was redeeming ourselves and beating Portola in the PCL carousel tournament and qualifying for CIF my junior year,” Yeh said.
While she doesn’t plan on playing water polo in college, she will continue pursuing her love for swimming. Water polo had an incredible season, beating Portola in overtime to make CIF, then winning again in the league carousel tournament.
Pep Squad
Ledbetter tried out for the cheer team going into her freshman year. Although she was in love with dancing at the time, her sister pushed her to do cheerleading and Ledbetter enjoyed learning new skills, like stunting.
“This past competition was my last, and it brought me even closer to my team and other schools,” Ledbetter said. “I was injured and out for most of the season, so being able to perform with my team one last time was my favorite memory.”
Depending on the college she attends, she plans on trying out for the team and continuing her cheerleading career. Feb. 16, 17 and 18, at their last competition, UHS Varsity Cheer placed 2nd in the nation and ended their season on a good note.
