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

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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.

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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.

On Saturday, February 8, Fillmore Flashes Wrestling hosted the Citrus Coast League (CCL) Wrestling Finals. Fillmore Boys and Girls Wrestling teams comped in the finals, with the Boys placing 3rd overall, and Girls placing 2nd overall. The team qualified 16 students to advance to the CIF Northern Division Individual Championships. The girls will compete at Adelanto High School and the boys at Mira Costa High School on Friday and Saturday, February 14 and 15. Pictured (l-r) are Coach Ignacio Juarez, with CCL Champions Olivia Juarez, Naomi Bonilla, Emma Torres, Alexa Martinez, Skyla Sandoval, and Coach Mike Torres. Photo credit Daniel Cruz and Jimmy Torres Jr. More photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com.
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Above is Fillmore’s Gonzalo Landeros vs. Anthony Luna of Santa Paula High School during the Citrus Coast League Wrestling finals on Saturday, February 8. Photo credit Daniel Cruz and Jimmy Torres Jr.
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Story by Girls Head Coach Michael Torres

Saturday, February 8, 2025, Fillmore High School Gymnasium – The Citrus Coast League Wrestling Finals took center stage on Saturday, February 8th, as Fillmore High School welcomed talented wrestlers from across the region for a thrilling day of competition with standout performances from both the girls’ and boys’ divisions.

Representing the Citrus Coast League were wrestlers from Channel Islands, Fillmore, Hueneme, Nordhoff, and Santa Paula High Schools, with each school bringing their best athletes to the mat.

FHS crowned five CCL Girls Champions in their respective weight classes, two athletes finished in 2nd place and four took home 3rd place medals. Olivia Juarez, Naomi Bonilla, and Skyla Sandoval all won titles for the first time in their careers. Co-captains Emma Torres and Alexa Martinez also won titles and in addition were recognized as lower weight and upper weight MVPs. Emma is Fillmore’s first four-time girls CCL Champion and is undefeated in her four years of CCL competition, having never lost a match against another CCL opponent in regular season, tournament, and postseason competition. Alexa Martinez, also a four year wrestler, was integral to the team’s success, and her MVP award was a fitting recognition of her performance this season as well as her leadership, dedication, skill, and commitment to the program. It is her first league title.

The top three wrestlers in each weight class for both the boys and girls division qualify for CIF Individual Championship Tournaments. Full results for the girls are as follows.

Citrus Coast League Champions (1st Place):

107 lbs.: Olivia Juarez

112 lbs.: Naomi Bonilla

132 lbs.: Emma Torres (4x Champion & Lower Weight CCL MVP)

142 lbs.: Skyla Sandoval

147 lbs.: Alexa Martinez (Upper Weight CCL MVP)

2nd Place: Delilah Cervantez (117 lbs.), Candy Aguilar (172 lbs.)

3rd Place: Jasmine Contreras (122 lbs.), Natalia Herrera (127 lbs.), Karina Vergara (137 lbs.), and Ava Manzano (237 lbs.)

Girls JV Wrestling saw four FHS athletes compete with the following results.

107 lbs.: Juliet Bustos (Champion)

137 lbs.: Yoseline Cruz Gutierrez (Champion)

137 lbs.: Jacquelin Lomeli (2nd Place)

137 lbs.: Michelle Pinedo (3rd Place)

For the boys, Emiliano Castanon claimed the championship after finishing as the runner-up last year, showcasing his growth
and determination. At 152 lbs., co-captain Gonzalo Landeros became a two-time champion, demonstrating his consistent
excellence and leadership. Finally, in the 167 lbs. division, Brendan Morales emerged as a league champion for the first
time.

Citrus Coast League Champions (1st Place):

142 lbs.: Emiliano Castanon

152 lbs.: Gonzalo Landeros (2x Champion)

167 lbs.: Brendan Morales

2nd Place: James Alcantar (130 lbs.), Elijah Hodges (190 lbs.), Eddie Padilla (217 lbs.)

4th Place: Michael Guevara (148 lbs.), Ignacio Guevara (159 lbs.)

The Fillmore girls’ team finished in 2nd place overall and the boys finished in 3rd place. However, it was Hueneme High
School that claimed the CCL Team Championship for both the Boys and Girls divisions.

The Fillmore girls’ team qualified 11 girls to the CIF Northern Division Individual Championships. The competition will take
place at Adelanto High School on Friday and Saturday, February 14 and 15.

The boys’ team qualified 6 wrestlers to the CIF Northern Division Individual Championships, which will take place at Mira
Costa High School also on February 14 and 15.

The success of the Citrus Coast League Wrestling Finals would not have been possible without the support of Fillmore High
School’s administration, staff, volunteers, and parents. A heartfelt thank you goes to everyone who helped make this event a
success and provided a fantastic experience for all the athletes involved.

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By FHS Girls Wrestling Head Coach Michael Torres

Saturday, January 25th, 2025. Norwalk, CA-The Fillmore High School Girls Wrestling team displayed tremendous determination and sportsmanship at the John Glenn High School Lady Eagles 32-Team Invitational, held this past weekend. Competing against some of the best talent in the Southern California region, the Flashes held their own and showed growth throughout the tournament, with several wrestlers achieving impressive results.

Senior Emma Torres, competing at 132 lbs, earned a 6th place finish with a 2-2 record. Her performance showcased her tenacity and ability to perform despite being in ill-health.

In the 117 lbs weight class, sophomore Naomi Bonilla finished in 8th place with a solid 3-2 record. Her performance was one of the standout efforts for the Flashes, demonstrating her skill in a highly competitive bracket.
Other notable pe-rformances came from seniors Alexa Martinez, who finished with a 2-2 record, and Ava Manzano, who finished 1-2. Both athletes showed promise, pushing themselves through tough competition and continuing to grow their wrestling abilities.

Unfortunately, a number of Fillmore’s first year wrestlers faced tough challenges in their brackets. Juliet Bustos (107 lbs), Jacqueline Lomeli (127 lbs), Skyla Sandoval (137 lbs), Michelle Pinedo (137 lbs), and Candy Aguilar (147 lbs) each finished 0-2, but their perseverance and dedication throughout the event speak volumes about their commitment to the sport.
Girls Head Coach Michael Torres praised the team’s effort, emphasizing the importance of the tournament in helping the athletes develop and improve. “This tournament was a step up the level of competition that we have faced, with a lot of CIF State Qualifiers that entered the contest. This experience will only make the team better as they move forward into the postseason and CIF Championships.”

The Flashes will look to build on their performance as they host the Citrus Coast League Finals on Saturday, February 8th at 10:00 am at the Fillmore High School Gymnasium with athletes from Channel Islands, Fillmore, Hueneme, Nordhoff, and Santa Paula all vying for the CCL crown in their respective weight classes and looking to qualify for CIF Championships in Adelanto the following week.

Fillmore Alumni represented at Season Openers. Pictured is Fillmore’s Moorpark College runner Angel Garcia, who finished 4th overall. Photo credit Angel Laureano.
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Nataly Vigil runner for Cal Lutheran. Photo credit Angel Laureano.
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Logan Torres runner for Moorpark College. Photo credit Angel Laureano.
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By Epi Torres

On January 31st, several athletes from Fillmore started their 2025 track and field season at the Moorpark College Opener and Multi. Nataly Tello kicked off the day competing for the Cal Lutheran Regals. In the 1500 meters, Nataly place 7th in a time of 5:32.88. Moorpark’s distance tandem of Angel Garcia and Logan Torres represented the Raiders well in the 1500 meters. Logan was 4th overall in the two-heat race in a time of 4:12.12, and Angel finished 8th in 4:22.15.

Angel Garcia came back and doubled by running the 3000 meters. Angel also doubled and finished in 7th in 9:35.19.
On Saturday, February 1st. a small contingent of Fillmore High School travelled to Simi High School to compete in the Athletics California Winter Championships Qualifier Meet.

The first competitive event of the day for the Flashes was the 1500 meters. In the girls’ race, Diana Santa Rosa finished 18th in a time of 5:38.53. She was followed by Jessica Orozco 20th in 5:42.41, Melanie Flores 35th in 6:03.10, Jacqueline Olivares 37th in 6:07.73, and Jannet Vega 47th in 6:21.32.

In the Boys 1500 meters Omar Heredia was the top Flash, placing 9th in 4:20.99. He was followed by Damian Castaneda 60th in 4:58.53, and Andres Moreno 64th in 5:03.17.

Both boys and girls doubled back in the 600 meters. Omar ran a 1:33.57, Andres 1:43.16, and Damian in 1:48.23. In the girls’ 600, Jessica ran a time of 1:54.64. She was followed by Diana in 1:54.81, Melanie Flores 2:07.46, Jacqueline 2:12.92, and Jannet 2:12.93.

Several sprinters and jumpers also competed in this meet. Janessa Corona competed in the 60 meter sprint and finished in 8.45. This time qualified Janessa for the Athletics California Winter Championships Meet in Arcadia. Her teammate Jaiden Peacock finished in 9.12. Michelle Setty competed in the 150 meter long sprint and finished in 23.43. She also Triple Jumped 26’½ inch.

Among the boy competitors, Sebastian Torres competed in the 150 Meter Long sprint, posting a time of 18.98. Javier Gonzalez ran the 60 meter sprint in 7.80, and Jasiah Patterson long jumped 17’04.75”.
The Flashes will now return to training for their next meet on February 22nd. They will compete at the Westlake Distance Carnival. Meet start time is 8:00 AM.