Fall Sports
By: Dylan Morran '25
As the new school year rolls back around and all the students are getting ready to wake up at 7 am again, many new and returning athletes prepare to compete in the various fall sports that Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies has to offer. With each sport bringing energy, determination, and a sense of community throughout the school this season, each athlete from cross country to girls volleyball, is prepared to make a name for themselves and showcase their new skills and spirit. Meanwhile, the girl's tennis team is experiencing a new start with the arrival of a new coach and even newer tennis courts.
Cross Country
With outstanding players and an outstanding Coach, Joel Valle who has been with SOCES for 3 years, the cross country team is looking forward to getting first place in their division 3 highly anticipated city championship, along with heated meets at Pierce College. “I think the best moment I have from coaching here is watching each player grow up through each meet,” said Coach Joel, emphasizing the true power of this team's relationship and their ability to show off their stride in the new season.
Football
Under the leadership of Coach Ross, a former NFL player for the Tennessee Titans, the SOCES Knights are ready to dominate this season and win that championship. As SOCES comes back from a 4-6 overall in the 23-24 season, and a 2-6 in the 19-20, the team’s strong chemistry and relationship they have with each other are sure to win a championship this year, and a great time in this year's homecoming game.
Flag Football
Flag football is gaining momentum at SOCES, with the powerful Coach Crockett and Santiago leading and showing the team what skill and teamwork are. They had an outstanding start to the season of 13-7 against Panorama City High School, and a remarkable 62-0 against East Valley last season. This team is slowly improving and looking forward to making a mark in the season with its mix of experienced players and fresh talent.
Girls Volleyball
The girl's volleyball team holds some of the school's greatest chemistry and positiveness, which has led them to numerous wins throughout the years, and an outstanding 15-9 overall the previous year. With their coach, Jon, who also coaches boys volleyball in the spring, the team looks forward to making this season memorable for the seniors who make up most of the team. Although not captain, Senior Hailey Frait has been instrumental in pushing the team to success. “One of my favorite moments from our most recent game is when one of our new players got a perfect block, the whole team was very excited for her and it felt good to see everyone so positive and connected,” she said. The team's next matchup against Van Nuys on the 26th will be a thrilling show.
Cheerleading
The girl's cheerleading team has been essential in holding up the spark for every sport this fall season, bringing enthusiasm and spirit to every game. Led by Senior Kayla Chavez and coached by Coach Natalya, the team has worked day and night to perfect every move and stunt for the school and fans sitting in the bleachers. Even for the school rallies when everyone must come together to complete the perfect dances and stunts such as the “pyramid,” Kayla remembers when the team would help each other and do each other's makeup, explaining how all of the support each athlete gives each other makes them just one big family.
Unlike all the sports, the girl's tennis team is still in the process of acquiring a new coach who can lead them well and continue their great past season overall of 9-6.
