The Class of 2025 included exceptional student-athletes who earned scholarships and signed with colleges and universities across the nation to further their academic and athletic careers this spring.
Congratulations to these exceptional student-athletes as they work toward continued success in their future academic and athletic pursuits!
Americas High School
Ximena Palacios, a soccer player, signed her letter of intent with State Fair Community College in Sedalia, Mo. Palacios won first place in the district for the Business Professionals of America (BPA) small business event and qualified for the state competition. Additionally, Ximena secured second place in the high school category at the SISD Día De Los Muertos Showcase and received above-average rankings in an SISD sculpture competition.
Americas High School signing photos
Eastlake High School
Naima Jolie Calvo, a center back soccer player, signed her letter of intent with the Everton International Football Programme. Calvo’s accolades include 2025 district and 2024 bi-district championships. Other accomplishments include 1-6A District Defensive MVP, 1-6A District All-Academic Team, TASCO Region I Honorable Mention and TASCO Academic Award. She is a National Honor Society member and will graduate from Falcon Early College at Eastlake High School.
‘I’m going to Everton International Football Programme,” Calvo said. “It’s an elite club in England. My dream is to go pro in soccer. It’s three years of college there, and it will help me boost my experience. So, I’m going to take my chances and hope for the best.”
Nicholas Cortinas, a baseball catcher, signed his letter of intent with El Paso Community College, where he plans to study computer engineering. Cortinas is a three-year letterman and 2025 1st Team All-District catcher. He currently has a 3.8 GPA.
“I am very excited to continue my academic and athletic career at EPCC,” Cortinas said. “I put in a lot of extra time to perfect my craft and to see that it has paid off is a big relief. I am reaching this new chapter in my career, but I know I must keep my foot on the gas and continue to work toward bigger and better goals.”
Genesis Davila, a goal keeper, signed her letter of intent with the University of the Southwest, where she plans to major in kinesiology. Davila is a 2024 Golden Glove Goal Keeper. She currently has a 3.7 GPA.
“I am very excited for this opportunity,” Davila said. “I have had help throughout this entire process, and I’m thankful for the assistance from my parents and my coaches. I’m ready to excel at the next level.”
Alejandro De La Garza, a football offensive lineman, signed his letter of intent with Cisco College, where he plans to major in general studies. De La Garza is a member of the 1-6A District Championship team. He was selected for the Greater El Paso Football Showcase and was named 1st Team 1-6A District offensive lineman.
“Having an opportunity to sign and play football at the college level is a great opportunity for myself,” De La Garza said. “The hard work that has been completed over the last four years has truly paid off. The opportunity that awaits me brings nothing but excitement and opportunity for new challenges. I am thankful for my time at Eastlake High School and look forward to another chapter in my future. Thank you to all of my coaches and teammates for a memorable career.”
Chris Garcia Jr., a football player, signed his letter of intent with Oklahoma Panhandle State University, where he plans to study business administration. Garcia is a member of the 1-6A District Championship team. He was named 1-6A District Most Valuable Player and Texas High School Coaches Association Honorable Mention Defensive Back. He was selected for the El Paso Times All-City Team and Greater El Paso Football Showcase.
“This is a testament to the hard work that has been put in the last four years while a student here at Eastlake High school,” Garcia Jr. said. “I want to thank all of my teammates and coaches for the efforts and time. I have been very grateful for the last four years. I know that my time at Eastlake High School was a great one, especially being able to end our season as District 1-6A champions. Thank you to my mother, sisters and family members, who have been the most supportive and allowed this dream of mine to become a reality.”
Tyler Gardner, a wrestler, signed his letter of intent with McMurry University, where he plans to study kinesiology. Gardner is a district medalist, regional qualifier, team captain, Louie Carbajal medalist and Andy Garcia medalist. His is currently in the top 10% of his class, and he has been accepted into McMurry University Honors Program.
“After barely started wrestling in high school, I’m super appreciative that Coach Brown and many other coaches were willing to give me an opportunity,” Gardner said. “I believe that McMurry is the right choice for my academic and athletic college career.”
Erick Macias, a soccer player, signed his letter of intent with Ottawa University Arizona, where he plans to study business marketing. He is an A/B honor roll student.
“It feels crazy,” Macias said. “I don’t know how I was able to accomplish this with everything I’ve been through, but I’m just thankful for this opportunity. I’m thankful to my whole family and my girlfriend. They all supported and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”
Sergio Maldonado, a first baseman, signed his letter of intent with Central Christian College of Kansas, where he plans to study civil engineering. Maldonado is a four-year letterman and 2025 1st Team All-District baseman. He currently has a 4.0 GPA.
“I am very blessed and excited to continue my academic and athletic career at Central Christian College of Kansas,” Maldonado said. “It was always a dream of mine to play collegiate baseball. I can’t wait to get out there and get to work.”
Daniel Martinez, a baseball outfielder and pitcher, signed his letter of intent with Shoreline Community College, where he plans to major in mechanical engineering. Martinez is a three-year letterman and 2025 2nd Team All-District outfielder. He currently has a 4.0 GPA.
“I am beyond blessed to say that I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at Shoreline Community College,” Martinez said. “It has been a lifelong dream to play the sport I love at the next level. I’m very excited for the opportunity and look forward to working on becoming the best baseball player I can and hopefully play as long as I can.”
Derek Mendez, a basketball combo guard, signed his letter of intent with Colby-Sawyer College, where he plans to study graphic design. Mendez’s accolades include four-year varsity letterman, 2024-25 1-6A District and Bi-District Championships and 1000 Career Points Club. During the 2023-24 season, he was selected to the Pre-Season All Borderland Team and named Top 25 Prep Hoops Borderland Player, Top 5 Borderland Shooting Guard, Defensive MVP Finalist, 1-6A All Defensive Team and 1-6A All-Academic Team. Mendez currently has a 4.0 GPA and is in the top 12% of his class. He is a National Honor Society member, a graphic design representative, and he will graduate from Falcon Early College at Eastlake High School.
“This is a dream come true, and I’m truly grateful for the support of my family, coaches, and teammates, who helped me get to this point,” Mendez said. “I can’t wait to be part of the Chargers family, grow both on and off the court and represent Colby-Sawyer with pride. The grind doesn’t stop here—this is just the beginning!”
Jordan Morales, a baseball pitcher, signed his letter of intent with El Paso Community College, where he plans to study criminal justice. Morales is a three-year letterman and 2025 2nd Team All-District pitcher. He currently has a 3.5 GPA.
“I’m honored to announce that I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at EPCC,” Morales said. “I’m grateful to see all the hard work come to fruition. While this marks an exciting new chapter in my baseball career, I remain focused on continual growth.”
Chris Muñoz, a football defensive tackle, signed his letter of intent with Oklahoma Panhandle State University, where he plans to major in general studies. Muñoz is a member of the 1-6A District Championship team. He was named 1st Team 1-6A District defensive tackle and was selected for the Greater El Paso Football Showcase.
“I am very happy to have the opportunity to play football at the college level along with getting a chance to pursue a college education,” Muñoz said. “Playing football at Eastlake High School has allowed me to be prepared for the football side of things. Thank you to the faculty at Eastlake High School, who have also prepared me to pursue my degree. Thank you to my family and coaches for all the work these last four years. Thank you for believing in me.”
Ignacio Ortiz Jr., a baseball outfielder, signed his letter of intent with Shoreline Community College, where he plans to major in mechanical engineering. Martinez is a two-year letterman and 2025 2nd Team All-District outfielder. He currently has a 3.5 GPA.
“I am blessed and excited for having the opportunity to continue my academic and athletic career at Shoreline Community College,” Ortiz Jr. said. “It’s been a dream of mine to be able to play college baseball. I am ready to give it my all.”
Mia Robles, a defender soccer player, signed her letter of intent with Otero College, where she plans to major in kinesiology. Robles’s accolades include the 2025 district and 2024 district and bi-district championships. She was named to the 1-6A District 1st Team.
“It feels amazing,” Robles said. “It feels like a dream I always wanted, and I want to make my parents proud. I’m ready to play at the next level.”
Victoria Serrano, a volleyball player, signed her letter of intent with Suffolk University, where she plans to major in computer science. Serrano’s accolades during the 2024-25 season include bi-district and area championships, a Sweet 16 appearance and TGCA Academic All-State. Other athletic highlights include 2023-24 bi-district and area championships and regional quarterfinals qualifier and 2024 USAVB Nationals Freedom Division. She was in the top 10% of her class, National Society of High School Scholars member, student council parliamentarian and Engineering Club vice president.
“It’s so amazing being here and just getting the opportunity to play at the next level,” Serrano said. “It’s a dream come true to play volleyball at Suffolk and do my academics there.”
Giselle Villa, a defender/forward soccer player, signed her letter of intent with the University of the Southwest, where she plans to study nursing. Villa’s athletic highlights include the 2025 district and 2024 district and bi-district championships. She was named to the 1-6A District 1st Team and 1-6A District All-Academic Team and received the TASCO Academic Award.
“I feel amazing,” Villa said. “Playing at the next level has always been my goal since I was little. My goal is to make my family proud playing at the collegiate level and get my degree in nursing.”
Eastlake High School signing photos
El Dorado High School
David Martinez, a linebacker, signed his letter of intent with Bethany College, where he plans to study exercise science. Martinez was named 2024 1-5A Defensive MVP, 2024 First Team All-City and 2023 1-6A All-District First Team.
“I am excited for the opportunity to further my academic and athletic career at the next level,” Martinez said.
Gabriel Terrazas, an offensive lineman, signed his letter of intent with Trinity University, where he plans to study engineering science. Terrazas accolades include 2024-25 First Team All-City, 2024-25 1-5A D1 First Team All-District, 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 1-6A All-District Honorable Mention, 2024-25 1-5A D1 All-District Academic and 2024-25 team captain.
“I’m beyond blessed to be able to continue my athletic career at the next level,” Terrazas said. “It's always been a dream of mine to be able to earn a spot in college, all while continuing my passion by getting a degree in engineering, a career I've been wanting to pursue.”
El Dorado High School signing photos
Montwood High School
Jesus Armanta, a soccer player, signed his letter of intent with Blinn College, where he plans to study physical therapy. Armanta was the team captain and two-time 1st Team All-District.
“I am blessed to be given the opportunity to play at the next level,” Armanta said. “I am more than excited about a new challenge and a new environment where I can grow as a player and a person. I want to give all glory to God.”
Natalia Barajas, a softball player, signed her letter of intent with El Paso Community College, where she plans to study psychology. Barajas earned a 2024 1-6A Honorable Mention.
“ ‘For I know the plans I have for you’ says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster to give you a future and a hope,” said Barajas, quoting Jeremiah 29:11.
Diego Erives, a baseball player, signed his letter of intent with Sul Ross State University, where he plans to study business administration. Garcia is a two-year letterman and was a student in Montwood’s SYNERGI4 STEM and P-TECH Advanced Academy.
“I’m blessed to be allowed to have this opportunity,” Erives said. “There is no substitute for hard work.”
Natalia Fernandez, a cheerleader, signed her letter of intent with the University of Texas at El Paso, where she plans to study nursing. Fernandez’s accolades include Cheer Force Athletics Allstar Cheerleader for two senior teams, Fierce and Fusion from 2023 to 2025. She is an Emerald Elite recipient, DECA Vice President, and DECA State Qualifier. She was part of Montwood High Schools 2024 and 2025 NCA Competition Teams.
“Cheering at the next level will provide a vast opportunity for growth in character as well as engagement in fulfilling experiences and memories,” Fernandez said.
Juan Carlos Garcia, a baseball player, signed his letter of intent with Sul Ross State University, where he plans to study criminal justice. Garcia is a four-year letterman. He is the 2025 1-6A District Defensive Player of the Year and 2025 Montwood Baseball MVP and Slugger of the Year. In 2024, he was named 2nd Team All-District catcher.
“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard,” Garcia said.
Cesar Gonzalez, a soccer player, signed his letter of intent with Western Texas College, where he plans to study business finance. Gonzalez is a two-time 1-6A All-District goalie.
“Leaving home to play college soccer isn’t just about chasing a dream, it’s about growing into the person who can live it,” Gonzalez said. “Every mile away from home teaches resilience, and every match played builds both skill and character.”
Andrea Gibranni Ibarra, a cheerleader, signed her letter of intent with New Mexico State University, where she plans to study marketing. Ibarra’s accomplishments include 2025 Montwood High School Cheer Competition Team and DECA state qualifier. She earned her associate degree in multidisciplinary studies from El Paso Community College through RAMS Early College High School.
“I am excited to cheer football season and make new memories with the team while creating new friendships,” Ibarra said. “I am so grateful for this opportunity and give all thanks to God.”
Alejandro Lopez, a soccer player, signed his letter of intent with Hesston College, where he plans to study business management. Lopez received a 1-6A Honorable Mention.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity and very excited to open this new chapter in my life,” Lopez said. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me.”
David Macias, a wrestler, signed a letter of intent with Ottawa University Arizona, where he plans to study mechanical engineering. Macias is a two-time district placer. He graduated from Rams Early College High School with an associate degree from El Paso Community College. He earned a CAD certification in SolidWorks/Fusion 360.
“I feel pretty good,” Macias said. “I’m ready for the next step. I’m thankful to my coaches for pushing me and to my father for helping me a lot and bringing me to early morning practices.”
Kassandra Melendez, a cheerleader, signed her letter of intent with Blinn College, where she plans to study business management. Melendez has been a cheerleader for four years with three years on varsity. She is a 10-year member of Cheer Force Athletics and a 2022 Emerald Elite recipient. She was named Best El Paso High School Cheerleader in 2022, 2023 and 2025, and in 2024 she was recognized as Best Texas High School Cheerleader. Her other accolades include 2024 and 2025 NCA All-American, a Prep-1 Athlete and DECA state qualifier.
“I love serving as an ambassador and am very grateful to have the opportunity to represent my hometown in another city and continuing my academic and athletic career at the collegiate level,” Melendez said.
Kathy Palmer, a soccer player, signed her letter of intent with Sul Ross State University, where she plans to study kinesiology. Palmer was named 024-2025 District 1-6A MVP Goalkeeper and received a 2021-22 Honorable Mention as a freshman.
“I first want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to play at the next level,” Palmer said. “I am excited to embrace this next chapter of my academic and athletic career. I want to thank every coach, trainer and doctor, who helped me along the way to achieve this milestone, and most importantly my parents,” Palmer said.
Micah Ramirez, a wrestler, signed his letter of intent with Hastings College, where he plans to study criminology. Ramirez is a two-time district placer and regional qualifier. He had a 3.6 GPA and graduated from Rams Early College High School with an associate degree from El Paso Community College.
“I chose Hastings because the program seems great and it’s a great community,” Ramirez said. “I really love to wrestle, and Hastings was the best fit for me.”
Sophia Sandoval, a softball player, signed her letter of intent with Vernon College, where she plans to study mechanical engineering. Sandoval was named to the 2023 and 2024 1-6A First Team All-District and received a 1-6A Softball Al-District Honorable Mention in 2021-22. She was an Academic All-Star for all four years of high school.
"I’m super excited and thankful for the opportunity to continue playing the sport I’ve loved since I was a little girl,” Sandoval said.
Loralai Rodriguez, a softball player, signed her letter of intent with Frank Phillips College, where she plans to study kinesiology. Rodriguez was named to the 2024 1-6A 2nd Team All District.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to be able to play at the next level and grow not only as an individual but as a softball player,” Rodriguez said.
Sofia Velez, a softball player, signed her letter of intent with Midland College, where she plans to study kinesiology. Velez was named 2023 1-6A Co-Pitcher of the Year and 2024 1-6A District MVP.
“I am very excited to play at the next level and beyond grateful to be given this opportunity,” Velez said.
Jaden Valdes, a football player, signed his letter of intent with Sul Ross State University, where he plans to study kinesiology. Valdes was named 2025 1st Team All-District safety. In 2024, he earned a 1-6A All-District Honorable Mention.
"The opportunity to play at the next level is a blessing and a dream for me since I was a kid,” Valdes said. “I’d like to thank God and everyone who has been involved in the process getting me where I am today.”
Daniel Vasquez, a soccer player, signed his letter of intent with Kansas Wesleyan University, where he plans to study political science. Vasquez is a three-year letterman.
“I feel honored and humbled to be able to continue playing the game I love at a high level,” Vasquez said. “This moment is a culmination of 15 years of constant hard work, and I give thanks to everyone who helped me get here.”
Montwood High School April signing photos
Montwood High School May signing photos
Pebble Hills High School
Pablo Corral, a track and field/cross country athlete, signed his letter of intent with Coffeyville Community College in Coffeyville, Kans. Corral was a two-time track and cross-country team captain and he is a four-year letterman in both cross country and track. He has a GPA of 97.2 and was selected for the THSCA Academic All-State team. He plans to study finance at Coffeyville Community College.
“I’m so happy to sign to the next level,” Corral said. “Thank you to everyone who has helped me along the way to get here. The process was not easy, but because it was hard, it made it all worth it. Thank you!”
Tristan Edwards, a soccer left defender and left midfielder, signed his letter of intent with Lubbock Christian University. He was a key player contributing to a District Championship, four Bi-District Championships, two Area Championships, one Regional Championship, and two consecutive Sweet 16 appearances. Edwards plans to study animal sciences at Lubbock Christian University.
Jovan Federico, soccer center midfielder, center defensive midfielder, center attacking midfielder, winger and striker, signed his letter of intent with Paris Junior College. He was named Newcomer of the Year, Midfield MVP, Offensive MVP and named to the All-District first team and All-District Academic team. As a junior, Federico played a key role in leading the team to a Bi-District Championship, Area Championship, Regional Quarterfinal Championship, and their first-ever appearance in the Sweet 16 Playoff. In his senior year, he was part of the historic team that secured Pebble Hills’ first District Championship in soccer, along with another Bi-District Championship, Area Championship, and a second consecutive Sweet 16 Playoff appearance. He plans to study kinesiology at Paris Junior College.
Ameen Ibrahim, a track and field/cross country athlete, signed his letter of intent with Western New Mexico University. Ibrahim won third place in the 2025 district track meet, was an area and regional qualifier and an area runner-up. He was the team captain two times for the track and cross-country teams, and he is a four-year letterman in both cross country and track. He was in the top 10 percent of his class with a GPA of 100.87 and was selected for the THSCA Academic All-State Team. He plans to study pre-engineering at Western New Mexico University.
“I am so proud and honored to be able to sign with Western New Mexico and have another opportunity to keep doing what I love,” Ibrahim said. “I’m excited for this next chapter in my running career. It’s going to be fun. Go, Mustangs!”
Angela Riusech, volleyball opposite hitter, signed her letter of intent with Sul Ross State University. She earned the 2023 – 2024 THSCA All-State and All-District Academic Award and the 2024 – 2025 THSCA All-State and All-District Academic Award. Riusech has been part of the SPARTA Business Academy, she has completed over 150 hours of community service hours, taken about 15 AP or Dual credit classes and held a part time job all senior year as a participant of the extended practicum class. She has maintained a 3.8 GPA and earned certifications in floral design, entrepreneurship, small business and as a tax preparer. She plans to study business management at Sul Ross.
Jordan Sapien, basketball point guard, signed her letter of intent with Western New Mexico University. She was selected three times for TGCA All-State team, three times for the TGCA All-Region team, was the BSR Player of the year, EP Times Player of the Year, three-time El Paso Times All-City team, GEPCA Player of the Year, District MVP, two-time District Offensive MVP, and District Newcomer of the Year. She has the all-time scoring, assists and steals record and three-point leader at Pebble Hills High School. She also was selected for the Texas Academic All-State team. Sapien will study kinesiology at Western New Mexico University.
“This will be a special moment that I’ve been dreaming about since I was a little kid,” Sapien said.
Olivia White, basketball small forward, signed her letter of intent with York University. White was selected for the All-District first team, All-Borderland Sports Report (BSR) first team, El Paso Times All-City team, and earned the all-time rebound record at Pebble Hills High School. She also was selected for the Texas All-Academic team. She plans to study business marketing at York University.
“This will be an accomplishment that I have been working for since my freshman year,” White said. “I never thought it would be possible but here we are.”