Channel League champion Fabi Rosales of the San Marcos youth soccer team and Lily Simoron of Bishop Diego Basketball were recognized as athletes of the week at the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Press Luncheon at Harry’s Plaza Cafe on Monday.
Rosales scored the winning goal in the closing minutes to keep the Royals unbeaten in the league in a 2–1 win over Buena.
In the cross-town rivalry game against Santa Barbara High, he won 5-1 to give San Marcos their third consecutive title. The Royals are 12-0 in league play.
“He’s an essential player for us,” said San Marcos assistant coach Gennaro Hernandez of Rosales.
Simoron played a key role for Bishop Diego in the fourth quarter victory over St. Bonaventure, 43-36, in a pivotal Tri Valley League game. She scored 10 of 15 points in the quarter, including a 3-point play on four free throws late in the game.
“She never tried to let us down,” said coach Jeff Brich.
The Cardinals win clinched a spot in the CIF playoffs. In the season he is 20-3 and in the league he is 4-1. They play 5-0 Foothill Tech on Thursday.
The women’s honorable mentions went to Ira Lane (UCSB Basketball) and Giulia Piccoletti (Carpinteria Water Polo).
Other male nominees for the award include Ajay Mitchell (UCSB Basketball), Baylor Wilson (Laguna Blanca Soccer) and Bryce McFeely (Westmont Baseball).
Athlete of the Week awards are selected by members of the local sports media. Coaches are encouraged to nominate suitable candidates. Nominations must be sent to sports@noozhawk.com by 10am on Sunday.
The award is sponsored by law firm Maho Prentice.
