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ALHAMBRA: PITCHER GARNERING PRO INTEREST
When Alhambra’s Cameron Millar has taken the mound this season, the stands typically have been a little more crowded – except it’s not just fans.
Closed off in their own section behind home plate are pro scouts, their radar guns and clipboards dissecting each of Millar’s pitches.
In a league game last week against Clayton Valley, more than a dozen scouts showed up to watch Millar take the mound.
“That was actually kind of light,” Alhambra coach Gabriel Sahagun said. “We’ve had quite a few more in the past.”
The 6-foot-2, 195-pound Millar is comfortable with all the attention.
“I’m pretty used to it now,” he said. “I don’t even notice it.”
The senior right-hander committed to the University of Arizona last season. But as with most high-level baseball prospects, Millar also might have an option to turn pro this summer and skip school.
“I’ll end up somewhere good,” Millar said. “Whether it’s Arizona or spring training, you never know.”
Millar pitches in the low to mid-90s with ease and hasn’t given up an earned run in any of his nine starts this season.
He credits a strong emphasis on his lower body as to why he can throw so hard.
“It’s all about working out,” Millar said. “Getting those legs bigger is the key.”
Against Clayton Valley – one of the top offenses in the East Bay – Millar dominated. He pitched a complete game shutout, striking out 10 and allowing just three hits in a 1-0 win.
– Nathan Canilao
LOS GATOS ANNOUNCES NEW GIRLS SOCCER COACH
Los Gatos announced Lisa (Nanez) Mitchell on Wednesday as the new coach of its girls varsity soccer team. Mitchell is a 1995 graduate of the school and member of the Wildcats’ Athletic Hall of Fame.
“Coach Mitchell brings a championship pedigree, international experience and a deep-rooted connection to the Los Gatos community,” Wildcatsathletic director Ken Perotti said in a release.
After her playing days at Los Gatos concluded, Mitchell starred at Santa Clara as a captain of the Broncos, leading them to three NCAA national semifinals. She later joined the San Jose CyberRays of the Women’s United Soccer Association and was selected to represent Mexico at the 1999 FIFA World Cup and 2004 Olympics.
“I am extremely honored to be named the girls varsity head soccer coach,” Mitchell said in the release. “As a proud LGHS alum, I’m excited to return to a program that has meant so much to me throughout my life. This community helped shape who I am, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back.
“I am committed to building a competitive, positive, and supportive environment where every player can grow, thrive, and carry the lessons they learn into all aspects of their lives. My goal is to help develop student-athletes who succeed both on and off the field.”
Mitchell has served as a physical education teacher at Fisher Middle School since 2005 and was Fisher’s athletic director for 12 years. Her coaching background includes head coaching experience with Los Gatos United Soccer Club and various local school teams.
Her approach emphasizes holistic player development — technically, tactically, physically and mentally — while also prioritizing strong personal relationships and team culture.
“With her deep ties to the community, elite playing background, and passion for youth development, Lisa Mitchell is uniquely positioned to elevate the Los Gatos Girls Soccer program to new heights,” Perrotti said.
— Christian Babcock
CARONDELET ATHLETES MAKE COLLEGE COMMITMENTS
The spring signing period has arrived for high school athletes, and Carondelet is the latest Bay Area high school to send a number of competitors officially to the next level.
The Cougars announced seven signees on Wednesday, spanning rugby and soccer.
Jadyn Ard (Cal), Gianna Gnusti (Oregon), Jordan Kixmiller (Fresno State), Mackenzi McLaughlin (Boise State) and Elizabeth Rachwald (Navy) inked commitments to play rugby at their respective universities.
Kelsey Castillo (Chapman) and Renata Salerno (Golden West College) signed to play soccer.
“We are thrilled to honor the outstanding accomplishments of our Carondelet student-athletes,” Cougars athletic director Steve Stokes said in a release. “These talented young women embody the core values of our school, displaying heart, faith, courage and excellence in both their academic and athletic pursuits. Through their unwavering dedication, perseverance, and commitment, they have cultivated the skills, character, and mindset that will serve them well as they embark on the next exciting chapter of their collegiate journeys.”
— Christian Babcock
MONTE VISTA: DOUBLE-DIGIT ATHLETES PICK COLLEGES
Not to be outdone, Monte Vista announced 18 signees of its own last week.
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Swimmers Jenna Partridge (Eastern Illinois) and Addison Vonderahe (Miami) are also moving on to the next level, joining lacrosse players Morgan Lewis (Queens-Charlotte), Derek Hoffmann (Marist) and Carson Miks (Marquette). Hailey Frantz signed to play softball at Providence, and Abby Krause will join the volleyball team at Washington-St. Louis. Carly Walsh signed with the crew team at Michigan.
A quartet of football players was also celebrated. Kellan Ford is heading to Arizona, Julian McMahan is bound for Washington, Zach Struempf will attend San Diego and Brayden Turner is headed to Fresno State.
— Christian Babcock
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