Fall sports has officially kicked off, and each of the participating teams are looking forward to a hopefully successful season. Here are some of the standout athletes to watch this season.

     The varsity football team did well in their first game, and one standout player of note is weak side safety Kayden Baze. 

     While his play on the field is impressive, he feels his best trait is in the locker room.

     “I’d say my best trait is my energy and leadership,” Baze said. “I always try to keep everyone going.

     One of the leading seniors of the group, his expectations go beyond himself this year.

     “It doesn’t matter to myself how I do this year,” Baze said. “I just want to win games.”

     Two more highlight seniors are Christian Chavez and Nydia Brito, representing the varsity boy’s and girl’s cross country teams. 

     Looking to defend his title as district champ, Chavez has certain targets for what he wants to work on before the district meet.

     “I definitely want to work on my short-distance speed,” Chavez said. “It’s not the best so that’s a goal for me.”

     On the other hand, senior cross country girl’s runner Nydia Brito is pushing for a strong team balance this year.

     “I definitely like to bring structure,” Brito said. “I want to make sure that everyone is on top of everything this year.”

     The varsity volleyball team has valuable senior leadership this year. Of those seniors includes defensive specialist Anyssa Cruz. 

     Even though a varsity spot can be stressful for athletes, Anyssa tries to keep the spirits high for herself as well as the team.

     “I like to try and bring enthusiasm to the girls,” Cruz said. “Just as much as I can.”

     She also has her eye out for a certain team on the schedule this year.

     “I can’t wait to play Midland High again,” Cruz said. “They barely won last time and I know we can beat them.”

     The varsity tennis team has high hopes as well this year, and are headlined by Paula Garcia. 

     The impressive senior competes in not only the singles, but the doubles as well, and believes her work ethic helps her to succeed at both.

     “I’d definitely say a lot of it is because I work hard,” Garcia said. “I don’t give up because in order to succeed at tennis you have to persevere.”