Local Basketball and Soccer Stars Win High School Athlete Awards

Two standout students from Orange County high school sports have been recognized for their excellence in 2023. Acen Jimenez, a basketball player from La Habra, took home the male athlete of the year award. He was chosen over two football finalists, Trent Mosley from Santa Margarita and Luke Fahey from Mission Viejo. Jimenez, who was also named the Orange County player of the year in boys basketball, will continue his athletic career at Dartmouth College next year. Makena Cook, a multi-sport athlete from Orange Lutheran, claimed the female athlete of the year title. She beat out Amalia Holguin from Sage Hill basketball and Jaslene Massey from Aliso Niguel track and field. Cook made headlines earlier this year when she transferred to Sierra Canyon for her final high school season. Her versatility in flag football and soccer set her apart from other nominees.Beyond individual awards, two legends received special recognition. Ann Meyers Drysdale, a basketball Hall of Famer and graduate of Sonora High, earned the Legacy award. Aaron Peirsol, a swimming world record holder from Newport Harbor, took home the Icon award for his contributions to sports. Their achievements highlight how long-term dedication can leave a lasting mark on local athletics. The coach of the year award went to Natalie Nakase of the Golden State Valkyries. She outpaced other finalists Carson Palmer, a football coach from Santa Margarita, and Russ Davis, a women’s basketball coach at Vanguard. Meanwhile, the female college athlete of the year title went to Hunter Hernandez from UC Irvine basketball, beating out Kaylee Byon, a finalist from Rosary High School. These awards show how high school sports in Orange County keep producing top-level talent each year. They also remind us that success isn’t just about winning games—it’s about hard work, adaptability, and pushing beyond one’s limits. Whether on the court, field, or in the pool, these athletes prove that dedication pays off.