By Epi Torres

On Friday, April 25th several members of the Fillmore High School competed at the Venture County Track Championships held at
Moorpark High School.

The Fillmore girls 4 X 100 meter team started off the meet with a bang, winning their Seeded heat in a new school record of
49.95. Team runners are Janessa Corona, Kimberly Magana, Mia Munoz, and Karinna Magana. Overall, they finished in 8th. The
boys 4 X 100 meter team finished third in their Seeded heat running a 45.02. Overall, they finished 10th.

In the girls rated 1600 meter run, Diana Santa Rosa placed 10th in a 5:57.36. Jessica Orozco placed 8th in the seeded race
in a personal best of 5:35.16. In the boys seeded 1600 meter run, Omar Heredia finished second, subbing 4:30 for the first
time this season by running a 4:29.75.

In the girls rated 100 meter hurdles, Yaneli Landin finished 4th in a personal best wind aided (2.1) time of 18.66.

In the rated 400 meter run, Leah Barragan finished 2nd in 62.70. Teammate Jasmine Gonzalez finished 5th in a personal best
of 64.62.

In the girls Invitational 100 meters, Kimberly Magana placed 9th in 12.37. In the boys Rated 100 meters, Saul Fraga-Sandoval
finished 6th in 11.26.

In the girls Seeded 800, Diana Santa Rosa finished 10th in 2:40.18. In the boys Seeded 800 meters, Omar Heredia finished 5th
in 2:03.14.

In the girls Seeded 300 Meter hurdles, Yaneli Landin finished 7th in 52.68.

In the Rated girls 3200 meter run, Jacqueline Olivares finished 5th in a personal best of 13:26.41. In the Seeded girls 3200
meters, Jessica Orozco finished 2nd in 12:17.13.

In the girls shot put, freshman Adrianna Deleon finished in 4th, hurling the put 33’ 06.5”, a new personal best by two and
one half feet. Hermelinda Ocegueda also set a personal best, finishing 7th in 31’ 06.25”. Lucy Murrillo finished 23rd in 27’
06.75. In the boys shot put, Anthony Tafoya finished 6th in 45’ 10.25”. Isaac Rivera finished 32nd in 35’ 03”.

In the girls discus, Hermelinda Ocegueda was the top finisher for the Flashes. Hermelinda eclipsed the century mark, placing
10th, and sailing the disc 101’ 09”. This was a personal best for Hermelinda. Angeline Hernandez finished 22nd in 81’ 00”,
and Aerin Garcia finished 24th in 80’ 01”. In the boys discus, Anthony Tafoya finished 2nd with a new personal best of 166’
03”. This places Anthony among the top 25 throwers in California. Isaiah Meza was 28th Rossi the discus 114’ 00”. Isaac
Rivera finished 30th in 112’ 00”.

In girls Flight 1 high jump, Yaneli Landin finished 3rd jumping 4’ 07”.

In the girls Flight 2 Long Jump, Janessa Corona finished 9th jumping 14’ 8.5”. In the boys long jump, Josiah Cruz finished
21st in 18’ 03.5”.

In the girls triple jump, Sarah Cedillos finished 23rd, leaping 28’ 10”. In the boys triple jump, Saul Fraga-Sandoval
finished 13th, leaping 38’ 4.25” and Mauricio Ocegueda finished 27th in 36’ 00”.

By FMS Head Coach Michael Torres

On Friday, April 4th, 2025, Simi Valley, CA - The Fillmore Middle School Bulldogs Wrestling Team, delivered a powerful performance at the Ventura County Middle School Wrestling Championships, held Friday, April 4 at Royal High School. The event brought together some of the region’s toughest competitors from Anacapa, Balboa, Cabrillo, Data, Isbell, and Sinaloa Middle Schools, as well as Nordhoff Junior High School.

For many Bulldogs, it was their first season of competition. FMS Head Coach Michael Torres, praised the team’s effort. “These athletes gave it everything they had,” he said. “Win or lose, they wrestled with pride and resilience, and that’s what defines the Bulldogs.”

Several Fillmore wrestlers stood out with strong individual performances, securing multiple podium
spots across different weight classes:

Boys’ Results:
95-100 lbs: 1st Place – Torrey Morales
112-117 lbs: 1st Place – Elijah Sandoval
130-135 lbs: 1st Place – Cayden Balades
114-115 lbs: 2nd Place – Christopher Padilla
150-155 lbs: 2nd Place – Tyson Garcia
195-200 lbs: 2nd Place – Kobe Avila
105-110 lbs: 3rd Place – Parker Blackshear
160-168 lbs: 3rd Place – Damian Garcia
185-190 lbs: 3rd Place – Sebastian Davila
150-155 lbs: 4th Place – Abraham Castorena

Girls’ Results:
142-155 lbs: 1st Place – Sophia Rivera
130-140 lbs: 2nd Place – Tania Vazquez
142-155 lbs: 2nd Place – Jaysa Martinez-Bernal
120-125 lbs: 3rd Place – Sophia Valdovinos

By Epi Torres

On Thursday, March 27th, the Fillmore Flashes track teams hosted the Channel Islands Raiders. This was Fillmore’s final
home meet of the season and run under gray skies with misty conditions intermittently.

The Junior Varsity girls 4 X 100 meter team started the meet with a win in a time of 56.62. Team members were Karissa
Espitia, Emma Ortiz, Barbara Soltero, and Daniela Hurtado. The Varsity girls team also claimed first with a time of 50.70.
Team members were Mia Munoz, Kimberly Magana, Janessa Corona, and Karinna Magana. The Varsity girls team ran a personal
best time. In the Varsity boys 4 X 100 meter relay Fillmore’s team of Josiah Cruz, Saul Fraga-Sandoval, Joshua Felix, and
Javier Gonzalez posted a winning time of 46.62.

In the Junior Varsity girls 1600 meter run, Jannet Vega placed 1st in 6:37.63. She was followed by Valeria Munoz Mendez 4th
in 7:09.96, Isabel Arredondo 3rd in 7:16.68, Cassandra Mendoza 4th in 7:18.20, Megan Robles 5th in 7:38.93, Nancy Anguiano
6th in 7:51.13, and Elena Magana 7th in 7:52.19. The Varsity girls were led by Jessica Orozco 1st in 5:45.53. She was
followed by Diana Santa Rosa 2nd in 5:49.68, Miley Tello 4th, in a personal best time of 6:13.12, Melanie Flores 5th in
6:15.80, Jacqueline Olivares 6th in 6:22.34, and Marbella Arroyo Tapia 7th in 6:35.03. This was a personal best time for
Jackie.

In the Varsity girls 100 meter hurdles, Emelie Magana finished in 1st with a time of 19.23. Teammate Yaneli Landin finished
2nd in 19.74. In the 300 hurdles, Yaneli came back to capture 1st place in 53.30, Michelle Setty was 3rd in 62.47. In the
Varsity boys 300 meter hurdles, Ryan Mynatt placed 3rd in 51.57.

In the Junior Varsity 400 meters, Jessica Aparicio finished 1st in 76.51. In the Varsity race, Leah Barragan finished 1st,
recording a time of 63.18. Jasmine Gonzalez was 2nd in 64.92, a personal best. Jaiden Peacock was 4th in a personal best of
68.07 and Emily Soltero finished 6th in 73.31. In the Varsity boys 400 meter run, Nathan Hernandez finished 1st in 54.39.
He was followed by Sebastian Torres 2nd in 54.92, Orlando Vigil Tello 4th in 56.80, and Gabriel Lagunas 7th in a personal
best time of 62.16.

In the Junior Varsity 100, Daniela Hurtado was 1st in 14.29. Karissa Espitia followed in 2nd in 14.72, Barbara Soltero was
3rd in 14.73, Emma Ortiz 4th in 14.98, and D’andra Amezcua 5th in15.09. Daniela and Emma ran personal best times. In the
Varsity girls race, Kimberly Magana was 1st in 12.77. Teammates Janessa Corona 2nd in 13:32, Mia Munoz 3rd in 13:56,
Karinna Magana 5th in 13.94, Andrea Gamez 6th in 14.17, Sarah Cedillos 7th in 14.18, Adrianna Deleon 8th in 14:47, and
Cristal Martinez 10th in 15.02. Adrianna, Sarah, and Adrianna ran personal best times. In the Frosh/Soph boys 100 meter
race, Draco Centurion was the winner in a personal best time of 12.94. In the Varsity boys 100 meter run Saul Fraga
Sandoval placed second in 11.65. He was followed by Joshua Felix 5th in 12.13, a personal best, and Javier Gonzalez 6th in
12.36, in the Junior Varsity girls 800 meters, Jannet Vega finished 1st in 3:04.80, a season best time. Also running well
were Valeria Munoz Mendez 2nd in 3:18.70, Cassandra Mendoza 3rd in 3:23.83, Nancy Anguiano 4th in 3:27.28, Elena Magana 6th
in 3:33.31, and Megan Robles 7th in 3:33.74. In the Varsity race, Miley Tello was first in a personal best time of 2:51.26,
her second personal best time on the day.

In the Junior Varsity girls 200, Jessica Aparicio was the winner in 32.09, a personal best time. In the Varsity race, Leah
Barragan was the winner in a personal best of 27.74. Mia Munoz was 2nd in 28.03, also a personal best. She was followed by
Andrea Gamez 4th in 29.48, and Jaiden Peacock 5th in 29,56. In the Frosh/Soph boys 200 meter run Draco Centurian was the
winner in a time of 26.69.

In the Varsity boys 200 meter run Nathan Hernandez was 3rd in 24.60.Orlando Vigil Tello was 5th in 25.37, and Javier
Gonzalez was 7th in 25.59.

In the Junior Varsity 3200, Jannet Vega was the winner in 14:56.99. In the Varsity girls 3200 meter run, Jessica Orozco won
her 2nd event of the meet in 12:31.39. Following next was Diana Santa Rosa 2nd in 12:40.83, Jacqueline Olivares 4th in
13:44.53, and Melanie Flores 5th in 14:07.94. Diana, Jackie, and Melanie ran personal best times. This was Jackie’s second
person best on the day.

In the Varsity girls 4 X 400, Fillmore ran to victory in a time of 4:26.68. Team members included Jazmine Gonzalez, Sarah
Cedillos, Andrea Gamez, and Leah Barragan. In the Varsity boys 4 X 400 meter relay, Fillmore placed 2nd in a time of
4:01.42. Team members included in the Junior Varsity shot put, Yesenia Robles led all competitors, winning in a heave of
23’ 01”. Desiree Marruffo was 3rd in 22’ 05.50”, followed by Valerie Rodriguez 4th in 20’ 07”, and Teresa Rangel 7th in 19’
09”. Yesenia, Desiree and Teresa had personal best throws. In the Varsity competition, Hermelinda Ocegueda took 1st with a
put of 28’ 05”. Adrianna Deleon was 2nd in 28’ 04”, Emily Soltero 3rd in 28’ 03”, Andrea Ramirez 6th in 23’ 10”, Lucy
Murillo 7th in 23’ 08.5”, Daniela Curiel 8th in 23’ 08”, Aerin Garcia 9th in 23’ 01”, Angeline Hernandez 10th in 22’ 02.5”,
and Jazmin Magana 11th in 21’ 04”. In the Frosh/Soph boys shot put. Emanuel Velazquez placed second wit a throw of 35’
08.50”. Anthony Tafoya won the Varsity boys shot put, tossing the steel ball 46’ 00”. He was followed by Marcus Lechuga 40’
04.50, Isaac Rivera 37’ 02”, and Isaiah Meza 35’ 04.00”.

In the Junior Varsity discus, Yesenia Robles finished in the top position, she threw the discus 65’ 03”, a personal best.
She was followed by Valerie Rodriguez 2nd in 61’ 07”, Desiree Marruffo 3rd in 58’ 02”, and Teresa Rangel 5th in 44’ 11”.
Teresa also had a personal best throw. In the Varsity discus, Aerin Garcia was first with a throw of 86’ 0”, a personal
best. Hermelinda Ocegueda 2nd in 79’ 00”, also a personal best throw. Andrea Ramirez 3rd in 77’ 08”, Emily Soltero 4th in
73’ 02”, Lucy Murrillo 5th in 71’ 08”, Angeline Hernandez 6th in a personal best of 71’ 00”, Daniela Curiel 7th in 70’ 01”,
and Jazmin Magana 8th in 59’ 04”.

In the girls Varsity high jump, Yaneli Landin was 2nd, clearing 4’ 04”. In the Varsity boys high jump, Isaiah Meza was 3rd,
clearing 4’ 10”, and Ryan Mynatt was 4th with a leap of 4’ 06”.

In the Junior Varsity long jump, Karissa Espitia finished 1st with a jump of 12’ 08”. She was followed D’andra Amezcua 2nd
in 12’ 03.5”. Karissa and D’andra jumped personal best marks. In the Varsity long jump, Janessa Corona was 1st, jumping a
personal best of 15’ 06”. Jasmine Gonzalez was second in 13’ 04.5”.

In the girls Varsity triple jump, Sarah Cedillos was 1st in 30’ 02.5”, and Michelle Setty was 4th in 25’ 11”. In the
Varsity Triple Jump, Jasiah Patterson was 2nd, jumping a personal best of 35’ 0”.

In the girls competition, Fillmore won both the Junior Varsity and Varsity Divisions. Junior Varsity boys and Varsity boys
finished second in the team competition.

***

College Alumni Compete

On Friday, March 28th, Jared Rhett and Cynthia Hurtado completed at the Mangrum Invitational in San Marcos, California.

Competing for Cal Poly Pomona for the Flashes, Jared Rhett tossed the discus 130’ 05”. In the Women’s Hammer Throw Cynthia
Hurtado placed 3rd with a throw of 151’ 08”.

On Saturday, March 29th, the Moorpark Raiders competed at the Dave Shannon Invitational at El Camino College. Angel
Laureano ran the 800 meters in 2:09.50.

Pictured is the Fillmore High Swim Team after their meet with Nordhoff High School. Top row (l-r); Jesse Cavazos, Kianna Toyooka, Nelly Rodriguez-Ceron, Rosalie McPhail, Tony Lemus, Bradley Villa, Emiliano Castanon, Alex Diaz, Aiden Asfour, and Ulysses Garcia, Bottom row (l-r): Karla Hernandez, Naylea Maldonado, Ava Manzano, Bibi Ortega, Ruby Bronsten, Lexie Gonzalez, Natalia Herrera, and Karina Vergara.
Enlarge Photo

By Hannah Faith, FHS Swim Coach

March 26, 2025 – Fillmore High School’s swim teams dominated Nordhoff High School last Wednesday at the community aquatic center. The boys varsity and JV squads extended their winning streak to three meets, with varsity winning 112-78 and JV taking 95-83. The girls varsity fell 92-98, while JV secured a 102-88 victory, showcasing Fillmore’s strength across the board.

The boys varsity 200-yard medley relay team kicked off with a 2:37.81 win. Varsity Captain Ulysses Garcia (12th grade) led, later taking the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:18.83. JV’s 200-yard freestyle relay finished first in 2:46.77, with Alex Diez (12th grade) winning the 200-yard freestyle in 3:04.27. “We’re unstoppable,” Garcia said.

The girls teams shone too. Varsity Captain Kianna Toyooka (10th grade) earned second in the 200-yard freestyle at 2:35.47, trailing Nordhoff’s Avery Monson. Nelly Rodriguez-Ceron (12th grade) won the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:45.11. JV’s 200-yard freestyle relay took first in 2:42.04, with Lexie Gonzalez (12th grade) topping the 50-yard freestyle at 42.01.

Fillmore’s depth thrilled fans, setting high hopes for future meets.

Above is Fillmore’s Chirstopher Padilla taking his opponent to the mat during his match against Ventura High. Photo credit FMS Head Coach Michael Torres.
Enlarge Photo

Pictured is Flashes Elijah Sandoval claiming victory in his match against Ventura High School. Photo credit FMS Head Coach Michael Torres. See more photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com.
Enlarge Photo

By FMS Head Coach Michael Torres

On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, the Fillmore Middle School Bulldogs showcased their skills in recent competitions at Nordhoff Junior High School and Sinaloa Middle School against middle school student athletes from Isbell, Nordhoff, Sinaloa, and Ventura Unified.

The team is now gearing up for their final challenge of the season: the Ventura County Middle School Championships, taking place on Friday, April 4th, at Royal High School.

Pictured above is Fillmore’s Jesse Moten vs. Isbell’s Isaac Izquierda at the Isbell Middle School Takedown Tournament. Photo credit Michael Torres, Fillmore Middle School Wrestling Coach.
Enlarge Photo

By Michael Torres, Fillmore Middle School Wrestling Coach

Isbell Middle School, Santa Paula, CA March 19, 2025 - The Fillmore Middle School Bulldogs wrestling team brought home an impressive array of victories at the annual Isbell Middle School Takedown Tournament held last week. Wrestlers from several local middle schools participated, including teams from Fillmore, Isbell, Nordhoff, Sinaloa, and schools within the Ventura Unified School District forming one Ventura Middle School team.

The Bulldogs will host their own tournament on Thursday, March 27th at Fillmore Middle School with other competitions at Nordhoff, Sinaloa and the Ventura County Middle School Championships to be held at Royal High School on Friday, April 4th.

Above is Fillmore’s Omar Heredia who medaled in the 1 Mile, pictured with Coach Epi Torres at the Maurice Greene Invitational. Photo credit Anthony Chavez.
Enlarge Photo

Pictured above is Fillmore Flashes Kimberly Magana who medaled in the Girls 100m, and Saul Fraga who medaled in the Boys 100m at the Maurice Greene Invitational at Oaks Christian High School on Saturday, March 22nd. Photo credit Anthony Chavez.
Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

By Epi Torres
On Saturday, March 22nd, several Fillmore Track athletes traveled to Westlake and competed in the Maurice Green Invitational. Saturday’s weather was Sunny and cool, great conditions for good marks.

The sprinters started our day running the 4 x 100 meter relay. The F/S Girls 4 x 100 relay team consisted of Andrea Gamez, Mia Minoz, Jaiden Peacock, and Kimberly Magana. They placed 4th overall in 52.82.

Next on the start line were the FS milers. Valeria Munoz Mendez was Fillmore’s top finisher in 7:04.42. This was a personal best time for she was followed by Nancy Anguiano in 7:52.40. In the Varsity girls race, Miley Tello led all finisher, posting a personal best time of 6:18.33. She was followed by Jacqueline Olivares 6:26.09, and Jannet Vega at 6:40.50.

In the FS boys mile race, Nikolias Cerda led this division for the Flashes. Niko finished at 6:09.01, and teammate Ricardo Quilo ran a 6:29.28. In the Varsity race, Omar Heredia posted a personal best time of 4:29.12. Omar was a medal winner in the event. He was followed by Jordan Hernandez 5:40.99, and Vincent Alonso 6:15.80.

Leah Barragan was the lone competitor in the Varsity girls 400. Leah established a time of 63.28. Nathan Hernandez led the FS boys in the 400 meters in a time of 54.23, and Orlando Vigil Tello followed in 56.68.

In the FS girls 100 meters, Kimberly Magana finished second in 12.68. Kimberly established a personal best time and was a medal winner in this event. She was followed by Mia Munoz in 13.22, and Andrea Gamez in 14.27. In the Varsity girls race, Karinna Magana posted a time of 13.20, and Janessa Corona ran a personal best of time of 13.23. In FS boys, Saul Fraga-Sandoval continued to run well with a personal best time of 11.21, and Joshua Felix was next also in a personal best in 12.14. Saul was a medal winner in this event.

In the FS girls 800, Valeria Munoz Mendez ran the top time in this division of 3:13.68. In the Varsity girls race, Diana Santa Rosa had the fastest Fillmore time of 2:38.50mile. She was supported by teammate Miley Tello in 2:57.87. In the FS boys race, Ricardo Quilo led the Flashes in 2:41.09, and teammate Nikolias Cerda finished in 2:49.29. In the Varsity race, Jordan Hernandez ran a 2:37.14 personal best, and Vincent Alonso a 2:47.34.

Competitors for the Varsity girls 300 meter hurdles were Yaneli Landin who finished in a personal best of 52.42, and Michelle Setty in 1:02.80.

In the FS girls long jump. Daniela Hurtado jumped 13’ 02.5”. In the Varsity division, Janessa Corona jumped 14’ 09”. Both Janessa and Daniela jumped personal best jumps. In the FS boys long jump, Joshua Felix jumped 16 01”. In the Varsity boys long jump, Josiah Cruz jumped 18’ 02”.

Sarah Cedillos, a sophomore, triple jumped 30’ 2.75”. In the Varsity boys Mauricio Ocegueda jumped 35’ 03”.

***
Fillmore Collegiate Track Alumni Compete

Logan Torres, a Moorpark College athlete, competed in the 1500 meters winning in a time of 4:13.01, and teammate of Angel Garcia ran a 4:22.62. Logan doubled back in the 800 meters, running a 2:04.63, Angel also doubled back in 2:08.70. Teammate Angel Laureano join the trio, posting a time of 2:13.85.

In the 4 X 400 meters, Moorpark ran three teams. Logan Torres was on the team that finished 2nd in 3:31.31, Angel Garcia on the team that finished 4th in 3:48.84, and Angel Laureano on the team that finished 5th in 3:51.12.

The Moorpark team will next compete at El Camino College on March the 28th.

Camilo competed at the Ron and Sharlene Alice at the Trojan Invite. His first event was the 1500 meter run. In this race he ran a personal best time of 4:00.41. Camilo came back to run the 3000 meters in 8:47.54.

Teammate Diego Rodriguez, a Santa Paula graduate, and Fillmore resident, ran the 3000 meters in 10:94.31, and the 3000 meter steeplechase in 10:04.31. Diego also ran the 800 meters in 2:05.41.

Cal Poly Pomona athletes competed at the UCLA Legends Inv. Cynthia Hurtado from Piru, and a Fillmore Alumnus place 7th in the women’s discus tossing the implement 146’ 6”. Jared Rhett finished in 12th throwing the discus 135’ 02”.

On Saturday & Sunday, March 1-2, Fillmore’s California United FC teams competed at the highly competitive Playmakers Sports Winter Fest Tournament in Santa Clarita. Pictured above is California United FC 2016 Blue Boys. Top Row: Assist Coach Javier Alcaraz, Head Coach Miguel Martinez, and Assistant Coach Josue Garcia. Bottom Row: Fabian Cabrera, Rex Masterson, Gera Alvarado, Andres Martinez, Neymar Alcaraz, JJ Garcia, Goalie Kevin Ponce, Adrien Marrufo, Roman Garibay, and Cruz Muñoz. Photo credit CUFC publicity Erika Arana.
Enlarge Photo

Pictured above is California United FC 2013. Girls Top Row: Coach Daniel Garcia, Siani Lomeli, Sadie Manriquez, Sarai Prado, Aaliyah Cervantez, Cristine Beltran, Bella Mendez, and Assist Coach Tony Mendez. Bottom Row: Marianna Guzman, Eva Arroyo-Salinas, Alessandra Padilla, Toni Cervantez, Itzel Arana, Hanna Sasson, and Head Coach Jose Luis Lomeli Jr. Not Pictured: Marianna Arreola. Photo credit CUFC Publicity Erika Arana.
Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

SANTA CLARITA, CA – March 1-2, 2025 — California United FC had a standout showing this past weekend at the highly competitive Playmakers Sports Winter Fest Tournament, held March 1–2 at Central Park in Santa Clarita. With five teams proudly representing the club, the weekend was nothing short of spectacular, as four teams advanced to the championship game and three emerged victorious.

The young athletes of California United FC demonstrated their skill, heart, and teamwork throughout the tournament. The 2016
Blue Boys, 2014 Boys, and 2013 Girls, all delivered dominant performances on their path to capturing championship titles. Each
team showcased the depth of talent and dedication within the California United FC program.

“Our players showed incredible determination and spirit all weekend,” said CUFC President, Jose Luis Lomeli Jr. “The club is
growing, so It’s always exciting to see their hard work pay off, and we couldn’t be prouder of how each team represented
California United on and off the field.”

Even the 2013 Boys team that came up just short in the finals fought with tenacity and left it all on the field, reflecting
the resilience and high standards that define the club.

With this successful weekend, California United FC continues to cement its reputation as a force in Southern California
youth soccer. The future looks bright for these rising stars as they build momentum heading into the spring season.

Congratulations to all our players, coaches, and families on a fantastic tournament weekend; Let’s keep building champions!

Hannah Faith, Fillmore High School Swim Coach
Enlarge Photo

Hannah Faith serves as the swim coach at Fillmore High School, bringing her extensive background and local roots to the role. Born and raised in Fillmore, she is the daughter of Janine Rees (FHS Class of ’70) and Bill Faith (long time resident and downtown business owner) and the granddaughter of Ralph Rees, a former drafting and print shop teacher at the high school. Hannah graduated from Fillmore High School in 2003 and began swimming at age eight under coach Cindy Blatt, which sparked her lifelong connection to the sport. She holds a BS in Human Development from UC Davis and a teaching credential in Special Education from Cal Lutheran University. She currently teaches the post-secondary special education class for students with extensive needs at FHS.

For the past three years, Hannah has coached the Fillmore High Swim Team, leveraging her education to enhance skill development and team unity. Her commitment to the program reflects her deep ties to the Fillmore community, where she continues to contribute as a leader and mentor.

FILLMORE, CA — On a cold and rainy March 14, 2025, the Fillmore High School (FHS) varsity boys swim team made history by
defeating their cross-town rival, Santa Paula High School (SPHS), in a thrilling meet. Ending a long drought of victories,
the Flashes boys scored an impressive 57 points to Santa Paula’s 39, showcasing resilience despite the soggy conditions at the showdown.

Ulysses Garcia led the charge, earning a total of 12 individual points with a 2:18.91 in the 200 Free Style and a 1:34:62 in
100 Breast. Garcia also contributing to the 200 Medley Relay, alongside Jesse Cavazos, James Alcantar, and Alex Diez for
another 8 points. Alex Diez shone brightly, taking 2nd place in the 50 Free Style (32.93) and 3rd place in the 100 Free
Style (1:17.88), adding another 7 points to the tally. Jesse Cavazos rounded out the highlights with a 1:34.69 in the 100
Back Stroke, securing 6 points. James Alcantar swam the challenging 500 Free style for the first time in his career and
gained FHS another 6 points. This victory marks a significant turnaround for the varsity boys, who have not won against Santa Paula in many years.

The JV boys faced a tougher battle, but secured the Win as well. Scoring 25 points to Santa Paula’s 24. Bradley Villa stood
out in the 50 back stroke, receiving 6 points. Tony Lemus added 4 points in the 50 Butterfly. Aden Astour also contributed
receiving 5 points total with 3rd place in Backstroke and 2nd in the 100 Freestyle.

The Junior varsity and Varsity girls team showed grit but fell short of a victory, JV scoring 40 points against Santa
Paula’s 52, and Varsity scoring 31 to SP’s 100. JV swimmer Bibiana Ortega led the team in points with 6 for her 50
backstroke and 6 for her 100 IM. Karla Hernandez and Rosalie McPhail took 1st and 2nd place consecutively in the 100 Free.
And first year swimmer Naylea Maldenado placed 2nd in Backstroke and 3rd in 50 Freestyle.

Varsity swimmer Kianna Toyooka had a standout performance in her 200 Freestyle, getting close to the CIF qualifying time
with a 2:37:01, and in her 100 Back at 1:27:53.

Head Coach Hannah Faith praised the varsity and junior varsity boys’ historic win, saying, “Breaking this losing streak
against our rivals is a huge moment for our team. The cold rain couldn’t dampen their spirit.” While the JV girls and
varsity girls faced challenges, the jv and varsity boys’ triumph over Santa Paula has reignited excitement for Fillmore’s
swim program.

Submitted by FHS Swim Coach Hannah Faith

On Wednesday, March 5th, the Fillmore High Swim team held a rainy-day swim meet against Hueneme High school. The Boys JV team won their first meet in over five years. The JV Girls’ team earned league champs in last year’s finals and won their first meet as well.

Fillmore’s Ulysses Garcia (V Boys) made consideration time for CIF for the 50 freestyle. Bradley Villa, (1st year swimmer/brand new to JV boys) placed first in his 50 backstroke. He has been working so very hard this year, and coaches are so proud. Kianna Toyooka (Sophomore, V girls) placed first in her 200 free and her 100 back. We look forward to seeing what she can do this year!

The Flashes Coaches Matthew Tello (FHS grad 2023) and Hannah Faith (FHS grad 2003) are so proud of their team for their hard work and dedication. Both were taught to swim by retired coach Cindy Blatt.

Above is Fillmore’s Josiah Cruz on the 4x100m relay with victory over Santa Paula. Photo credit Anthony Chavez.
Enlarge Photo

Above is Fillmore Flashes Senior Aeron Garcia in the Discus event. Photo credit Anthony Chavez. See more photos online.
Enlarge Photo

By Epi Torres
On Wednesday, March 5, under rainy skies, the Fillmore track teams hosted their annual track meet against our neighbors to the west, the Santa Paula Cardinals.

The Junior Varsity girls 4 X 100 meter team started the meet with an unopposed win in a personal record of 56.35. Team members were Karissa Espitia, Emma Ortiz, Barbara Soltero, and Adrianna Deleon. The Varsity girls team also claimed first with a time of 56.02. Team members were Janessa Corona, Mia Munoz, Leah Barragan, and Karinna Magana.

In the Junior Varsity girls 1600 meter run, Marbella Arroyo Tapia placed 1st in 6:22.99. She was followed by Giselle Villareal 2nd in 6:23.56, Jannet Vega 3rd in 6:49.73. Valeria Munoz Mendez 4th in 7:08.98, Isabel Arredondo 5th in 7:10.90, Valerie Rodriguez 6th in 7:16.64, Cassandra Mendoza 7th in 7:31.25, Megan Robles 9th in 7:47.09, Elena Magana 10th in 7:52.57, and Nancy Anguiano 11th in 8:03.20. The Varsity girls were led by Jessica Orozco’s 2nd place finish in 5:42.79. This was a personal best time for Jessica. Next to finish was Diana Santa Rosa 3rd in 5:49.53, Melanie Flores 4th in 6:21.91, Elena Garcia 5th in 6:30.43, and Jacqueline Olivares 6th in 6:36.36.

In the Varsity girls 100 meter hurdles, Emelie Magana finished in 1st with a time of 19.23. Teammate Yaneli Landin finished in 4th in 19.82. In the 300 hurdles, Yaneli came back to capture 1st place in 52.31, Michelle Setty was 3rd in 62.23.

In the Junior Varsity 400 meters, Xitlaly Guerrero Mejia finished 1st in 73.02. Jessica Aparicio was second in 76.91. In the Varsity race, Leah Barragan finished 1st, recording a time of 64.0.

In the Junior Varsity 100, Jasmine Gonzalez was first in 14.36. She was followed by Jaiden Peacock 2nd in 14.46, Adrianna Deleon 3rd in 14.66, and Karissa Espitia 4th in 15.09. In the Varsity girls race, Janessa Corona was 1st in 13.41. Teammate Karinna Magana placed 3rd in 13.97, and Andrea Gamez 5th in 14.23.

Marbella Arroyo Tapia won her second distance event in the Junior Varsity girls 800 meters, finishing in 2:55.12. Also running well we’re, Gisele Villareal 2nd in 3:06.14, Valerie Rodriguez 3rd in 3:22.23, Valeria Munoz Mendez 4th in 3:23.23, Isabel Arredondo 5th in 3:24.01, Nancy Anguiano 6th in 3:30.66, Elena Magana 7th in 3:34.28, and Megan Robles 9th in 3:37.29. In the Varsity race, Fillmore swept the first 3 places. Jessica Orozco was 1st in 2:39.81, Diana Santa Rosa 2nd in 2:41.42, Melanie Flores 3rd in 2:54.42, and Elena Garcia 5th in 3:01.75.

In the Junior Varsity girls 200, Barbara Soltero was 1st in 31.27. Emma Ortiz was 2nd in 31.56, and Jessica Aparicio was 10th in 36.40. In the Varsity race, Mia Munoz was 1st in 29.61. She was followed by Sarah Cedillos 3rd in 29.88, Andrea Gamez 4th in 29.89, Emelie Magana 6th in 31.42, and Karinna Magana 7th in 32.49.

In the Junior Varsity 3200, Jannet Vega was 1st in 14:24.91, and Valeria Munoz Mendez was 2nd in 16:02.35. In the Varsity race, Jessica Orozco was 2nd in 12:37.42, and teammate Diana Santa Rosa was 3rd in 13:06.26.

In the Junior Varsity girls 4 X 400, Fillmore ran to victory in a time of 4:57.51. Team members were Barbara Soltero, Emma Ortiz, Xitlaly Guerrero Mejia, and Jasmine Gonzalez. Fillmore also won the Varsity race in 4:28.73. Team members included Mia Munoz, Sarah Cedillo, Yaneli Landin, and Leah Barragan.

In the Junior Varsity shot put, Adrianna Deleon led all competitors, winning in a heave of 25 ‘10”. Andrea Ramirez was 2nd with a 23’0” put, Valerie Rodriguez 4th in 21’ 0”, Yesenia Robles 5th in 19’ 4.5”, Desiree Marruffo 6th in 17’ 11”, and Teresa Rangel in 17’ 08”. In the Varsity competition, Emily Soltero took 1st with a put of 27’ 10.5”.

In the Junior Varsity discus, Andrea Ramirez finished in the top position, she threw the discus 77’ 02”, a personal best. She was followed by Yesenia Robles 61’ 00”, Valerie Rodriguez 4th in 60’ 04”, Adrianna Deleon 5th in 54’ 06”, Desiree Marruffo 6th in 53’ 09”, and Teresa Rangel 8th in 42’ 08”. In the Varsity discus, Aerin Garcia was first with a throw of 85’ 05”, a personal best. Angeline Hernandez was 3rd in 68’ 08”, Hermelinda Ocegueda 4th in 66’ 00”, Emily Soltero 5th in 65’ 03”, Daniela Curiel 6th in 64’ 08”, Jazmin Magana 7th in 59’ 10”, and Lucy Murrillo 9th in 55’ 06”.

In the girls Varsity high jump, Yaneli Landin was 2nd clearing 4’ 04”.

In the Junior Varsity long jump, Karissa Espitia finished 1st with a jump of 11’ 08”. In the Varsity long jump, Janessa Corona was 1st, jumping 14’ 05”.

In the girls Varsity triple jump, Sarah Cedillos was 1st in 30’ 03”, and Michelle Setty was 2nd in 25’ 08”.

In the girls competition, Fillmore won both the Junior Varsity and Varsity Divisions.
In the Varsity boys 4 X 100, Fillmore placed 2nd in 45.37.

In the Frosh/Soph 1600 meter race, Nikolias Cerda placed 3rd in a personal best of 5:59.23, and Ricardo Quilo was 5th in 6:15.93. In the Varsity race, Omar Heredia finished 1st in 4:55.03. Andres Moreno followed in 4th, also in a personal best of 5:10.03, Damien Castaneda Camarena was 6th in 5:17.93, Jordan Hernandez 9th in 5:47.30, and Vincent Alonso 11th in 6:04.45.

In the Varsity 400, Sebastian Torres finished in 2nd, posting a time of 54.37. He was followed by Nathan Hernandez 3rd in 54.42, and Gabriel Lagunas 7th in 62.89.
In the Frosh/soph 100 meters, Draco Centurion was the winner in a time of 12.95. In the Varsity race, Abel Villela was 2nd in 12.03. He was followed by Javier Gonzalez 3rd in 12.06, and Josiah Cruz 6th in 12.41.

In the Frosh/Soph 800 meters, Ricardo Quilo led the Flashes with his 2nd place finish in 2:51.03, Nikolias Cerda was 3rd in 2:51.58. In the Varsity race, Omar Heredia was 1st in 2:13.91. He was supported by Andres Moreno 3rd in 2:22.91, Jordan Hernandez 7th in 2:40.28, and Vincent Alonso 8th in 2:42.29.

In the Frosh/Soph 200 meters, Draco Centurion was 1st in 26.91. In the Varsity race, Saul Fraga-Sandoval was 2nd in 24.45. Also, placing were Nathan Hernandez 3rd in 24.81, Javier Gonzalez 4th in 25.58, Sebastian Torres 5th in 25.74, Orlando Vigil Tello 8th in 26.88, Gabriel Lagunas 11th in 27.36, and Ryan Mynatt 13th in 28.04.

in the Varsity 3200 meter race Omar won his 3rd distance event of the meet. Omar cruised to a personal best of 10:36.22. He was followed by Damian Castaneda Camarena 4th in 11:52.93.

In the Varsity boys 4 X 400, Fillmore brought home the win in 3:42.04. Team members were Saul Fraga-Sandoval, Josiah Cruz, Nathan Hernandez, and Sebastian Torres.

Emanuel Velazquez won the boys Frosh/Soph shot put with a heave of 35’ 00”, and Valentin Garcia was 3rd in 30’ 10”. In the Varsity boys Anthony Tafoya claimed 1st with a season’s best of 42’ 8”. He was followed by Isaiah Meza 3rd in 35’ 02, Isaac Rivera 4th in 34’ 11.5”, and Marcus Lechuga 6th in 32’ 01”.

In the Frosh/Soph discus Valentin Garcia took 1st with a toss of 81’ 02”. In the Varsity division, Anthony Tafoya was 1st in 138’ 07”. Isaac Rivera finished 3rd in 104’ 11”, Isaiah Meza 4th in 101’ 08”’, and Marcus Lechuga 9th in 80’ 05”.

In the Varsity high jump, Orlando Vigil Tello finished in 1st with a jump of 4’ 08”. Ryan Mynatt was 2nd in 4’ 06”.

In the Varsity long jump, Joshua Felix was 1st with a leap of 17’ 10”. Abel Villela was 2nd in 17’ 09.5”, and Josiah Cruz 3rd in 17’ 09”.

In the Varsity Triple Jump, Saul Fraga-Sandoval was first, jumping a personal best of 38’ 07”.

In the boy’s competition Santa Paula won the boys Frosh/Soph Division, and Fillmore won the Varsity Division.

***
DON GREEN INVITATIONAL

On Friday, March 7th several Fillmore track athletes traveled the 23, over the hill to Moorpark High School and competed at the Don Green Invitational.

Seven distance runners competed in the 1600 meter run, the metric mile. First to start the evening were Jacqueline Oliveras and Jannet Vega. Jackie ran a 6:33.19, and Jannet was close to her with a clocking of 6:36.0. Melanie Flores ran in a different race. She clocked a personal best time of 6:10.52, an improvement of 11 seconds. Fillmore’s top two performers were Jessica Orozco, and Diana Santa Rosa. Diana was within 2 seconds of her personal best, posting a time of 5:45.32. Jessica ran a second personal best this week, with a time of 5:40.72.

In the boys 1600 meter run Andres Moreno clocked a personal best time of 5:08.48. Fillmore’s top 1600 meter runner, senior Omar Heredia came close to his best time running a 4:33.36. This is his best time this season in the 1600 meter run.

Fillmore athletes also competed in the Frosh/Soph girls discus and shot put. In the discus, Andrea Ramirez led the Flashes with a throw of 70’ 07”. She was followed by Hermelinda Ocegueda 67’ 03”, Adrianna Deleon 60’ 07”, and Lucy Murrillo 50’ 00”. In the Varsity girls discus, Aerin Garcia had Fillmore’s best throw of 83’ 07”. She was followed by Angeline Hernandez 72’ 06”, and Jazmin Magana 58’ 01”.

In the Frosh/Soph shot put, Adrianna Deleon led the Fillmore Four with a put of 29’ 01”. She was followed by Hermelinda Ocegueda 28’ 08”, Lucy Murrillo 27’ 01.5”, and Andrea Ramirez 21’ 06.5”. In the Varsity division, Emily Soltero heaved the put 29’ 00”. Aerin Garcia followed in 24’ 01”, Angelina Hernandez 22’ 11”, and Jazmin Magana 21’ 10”.

On Saturday another group of athletes traveled to the Don Green Invitational in Moorpark and competed in various events.

In the Frosh/Soph girls 100, Mia Munoz ran a season’s best time of 13.65. She was followed by Sarah Cedillos in 14.24, Jaiden Peacock 14.35, Jasmine Gonzalez 14.40, Andrea Gamez 14.52, Barbara Soltero 14.99, Emma Ortiz 15.03, and Karissa Espitia 15.07. In the Varsity girls 100, Karinna Magana led all the Fillmore girls with a time of 13.44. Janessa Corona finished in 13.52 and was followed by Cristal Martinez in 15.41.

The Frosh/Soph girls doubled back in the 200 meters. Mia Munoz ran the top time for Fillmore in 28.85. Teammates following were Jaiden Peacock 29.27, Jasmine Gonzalez 29.46, Andrea Gamez 29.68, Barbara Soltero 30.06, and Jessica Aparicio 33.05. The Varsity girls followed, with both girls running a personal best. Top finisher Leah Barragan ran a 27.90, and Xitlaly Guerrero Mejia a 31.51.

In the Frosh/Soph boys 100, Saul Fraga-Sandoval led the Fillmore sprinters with a 4th place finish in a personal best record of 11.69. He was followed by Joshua Felix who ran a 12.59. In the Varsity boys race Javier Gonzalez was first for the Flashes in 12.41. He was followed by Josiah Cruz in 12.74.

In the Frosh/Soph boys 200 meters, Nathan Hernandez had the top time of 24.28. He was followed by Joshua Felix in 25.17, Orlando Vigil Tello 25.35, and Draco Centurion in 26.53. In the Varsity 200, Javier Gonzalez was our top finisher in 24.99. Following were Josiah Cruz 25.45, Sebastian Torres 25.78, and Gabriel Lagunas 27.12.

Yaneli Landin had a busy day running a 19.64 in the Varsity girls 100 meter hurdles. She followed that with a 53.60 in the 300 meter hurdles, and finished her day with a 4’ 06” high jump. Michelle Setty also ran the Varsity 300 hurdles in 64.29.

In the Frosh/Soph girls 400 meters, Jessica Aparicio ran a 77.83. In the Varsity 400, Leah Barragan ran a personal best of 63.49. She was followed by Emily Soltero in 70.79, and Xitlaly Guerrero Mejia in 73.25.

In the Frosh/Soph 400, Nathan Hernandez posted the fastest Fillmore time of 54.9. He was followed by Orlando Vigil Tello in 57.39. In the Varsity race, Sebastian Torres ran a 55.90, and Gabriel Lagunas ran a 63.69.

In Varsity boys discus, Anthony Tafoya placed 2nd in 153’ 01”. Teammates following were Isaac Rivera 105’ 07”, Isaiah Meza 86’ 01”, and Marcus Lechuga 85’ 06”. In the Varsity boys shot put, Isaiah Meza had Fillmore’s top put in a personal best of 35’ 10”. Isaac Rivera followed with a put of 35’ 9.25”, and Marcus Lechuga 32’ 02.5”.

The Frosh/Soph girls 4 X 100 meter relay ran a time of 54.17. Team members included Jasmine Gonzalez, Andrea Gamez, Jaiden Peacock, and Mia Munoz.

The Frosh/Soph boys 4 X 100 meter relay team was the meet’s winning team in a personal best time of 46.56. Team members included Orlando Vigil Tello, Nathan Hernandez, Joshua Felix, and Saul Fraga-Sandoval.

In the Varsity boys long jump, Josiah Cruz jumped 18’ 09”, and Jasiah Patterson lept 17’ 08.75”.

The Flashes will now prepare for their second home meet on Thursday, March 13th. They will host the Hueneme Vikings.

By Epi Torres

On February 23rd, Martin Arredondo ran the Ventura Marathon 26.2 miles as a tune up race for his Boston Marathon debut on Monday, April 21st. Martin managed to run a 3:00.15, and placed 4th in his age group. Rachele De Nicola and Elizabeth Andreini were also listed as finishers from Fillmore. Rachele finished in 5:20.55, and Elizabeth finished in 5:20.56. Fillmore also had two runners in the ½ Marathon. Francisco Bernardino ran a 1:37.07, and Isabel Osegueda ran a 2:12.17.

By Epi Torres

On Saturday, February 15th, two Fillmore alumni competed at the Pirate Invitational, a track meet hosted by Ventura College. Angel Garcia, a student athlete at Moorpark College, ran in the 1500 meters, and finished in 5th place in heat 1, posting a time of 4:20.45, he then doubled back in the 800 meters and ran a 2:10.6. Meanwhile, teammate, Logan Torres, a resident of Fillmore finished second in heat 3 of the 1500 meters in a time of 4:16.57, and also came back in the 800 meters to post a time of 2:09.32.

The following weekend on Saturday the 22nd, the same Moorpark College runners competed in the Ron Kamala Open hosted by Mt. San Antonio College. In the 800 meters, Logan Torres posted a time of 2:04.59, Angel Garcia 2:09.27, and Angel Laureano 2:12.86. In the 3000 meters, Logan Torres came back and ran a 9:04.80, and Angel Garcia ran a 9:35.43.
Camilo Torres, a runner at CSU Northridge competed at the Podium in Spokane Washington. Camilo ran a season best in the 3000 meters, in a time of 8:43.72.

***

FHS Metric Milers Run Westlake Distance Carnival

On Saturday the 22nd of February, Fillmore High School athletes competed in the Westlake Distance Carnival. All runners competed in the 1600 Meters. The girls were the first to showcase their talents. Jessica Orozco led all Fillmore runners with a 5:53.23. She was followed by Diana Santa Rosa in 5:59.33, Melanie Flores 6:17.59, Elena Garcia 6:23.72, Miley Tello 6:26.79, Jannet Vega 6:31.65, Jacqueline Olivares 6:34.59, Elena Magana 7:40, and Megan Robles 7:52.16. Melanie, Elena, Jannet, and Megan posted personal best times.

In the boys 1600 meter race Omar Heredia led all Fillmore competitors posting a time of 4:42.03. He was followed by Andres Moreno 5:21.62, Damian Castaneda Camarena 5:22.69, Vincent Alonso 5:50.30, and Jordan Hernandez 5:50.54. Andres, Damian, Vincent, and Jordan all ran personal best.