Latest news with #GulliverPrep
Miami Herald
7 days ago
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Gulliver's Schnur and Westminster's Vanegas are the Dade Lacrosse Players of the Year
One was already the leading scorer in program history before putting together another big season this year. The other helped her school make history with its first district championship. As the top players for the top teams in Miami-Dade County, Gulliver Prep's Sebastian Schnur and Westminster Christian's Kiera Vanegas are the Miami Herald's Miami-Dade County Lacrosse Players of the Year. Schnur followed up a record-setting junior season in Pinecrest with another 100-point season to help Gulliver advance in the region playoffs for the first time since 2019. The attack led the county with 57 assists and also scored 48 goals to finish with 105 points—no one else in Miami-Dade had more than 82. The senior also had 49 ground balls—the third most on the team—and had four takeaways. This is Schnur's second straight season as the Herald's Miami-Dade County Boys' Lacrosse Player of the Year after he piled up 130 points as a junior last year. 'Last year, we had 15 seniors graduate so there were a lot of holes to fill,' Schnur said. 'Collectively, our senior group did a great job leading and getting a lot of freshmen and sophomores to play and get to that level we needed.' Schnur will attend Wake Forest University starting this fall and play lacrosse, which is played there as a club sport. 'I just decided Wake because it's a great location and looks like it'll be a great college experience and a great fit for me,' Schnur said. Vanegas, a junior, helped the Warriors make history this year by winning a district title for the first time. The midfielder was a do-everything star in the middle of the field for Westminster Christian, which is why she's the girls' Player of the Year. She piled up 62 goals and 23 assists, and also had 99 ground balls, 52 caused turnovers and 63 draw controls. 'It was a record-breaking season and so amazing,' Vanegas said. 'We were really focused on playing together as a family and it worked great in the end.' The Warriors began their girls' lacrosse program just five years ago and already have become one of the premiere programs in Miami. This year, Westminster Christian was the only team from Dade County to reach the region playoffs. In the Warriors' district championship, Vanegas was at her best, scoring six goals and handing one assist to help Westminster Christian topple Palmer Trinity. Although the Warriors bowed out in the first round of the region playoffs, Vanegas will be back next year and Westminster Christian will get a chance to build on a breakthrough season. 'I improved my leadership skills. I struggled with that last year,' Vanegas said. 'I knew I was a strong player on the field, but didn't take that part seriously. I definitely matured this year and definitely loved the team in a much better way this year.'
Miami Herald
14-05-2025
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Award-winning swim coach leads by example through hard work
Mike LaMonica is a 16-time All-American swimmer who trains more than two hours a day. He usually finishes before the sun comes up. LaMonica will be 65 this year. He is an inspiration to us all to keep moving. He swims Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5:15 a.m. Also, he swims Saturday at 7:15 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays are for weights, strength training and mobility. That makes four water days and three strength days. 'No one has broken any of my three national records,' he said. 'I will be attempting to break the World Record in the 100 Meter Butterfly in a meet this November. If I can drop .37 seconds that would do it!' He broke his third and fourth United States Masters record in his age group at the Rowdy Gaines Masters Classic swim meet in Orlando Jan. 31- Feb. 2. That event was the Men's 100 Meter butterfly (65-69 age group) and he broke it twice at the meet — first on Friday and then again on Sunday. He said his final time was 1:04.22. The old record of 1:05.37 had stood since 2016. 'The final time, adjusted to yards, would have been fast enough to qualify for Florida High School state championships,' he said. LaMonica has been out of high school for 47 years. He was recently named Swim Coach of the Year at the Gulliver Prep annual banquet. He is the school's head coach for 53 master swimmers and also helps out with the entire age group swim program. After a move to Miami in 1992 from New York City, he worked at the iconic Beber Silverstein Group. LaMonica said he still has a close relationship with the Miami communications firm, but now he's passionate about swimming and teaching swimming. His son, Diego, graduated from Gulliver Prep in 2020 and went on to play tight end at Vanderbilt University on a football scholarship. He is also dad to Olaiah, 7, and Ella, 5, and he is married to Kelly Garcia. LaMonica said the Gulliver Raiders Swim Club that he trains with has about 180 families involved. Swimmers range in age from 6 to 65. The club, open to everyone, is advanced, and you must try out to be placed on a team. Details are at In his 'spare time,' LaMonica said, he teaches private swim lessons and personal training to swimmers from age 2 to 81. 'The water doesn't care how old you are,' he said. 'It's all consistent work, work, work. 'I hope I'm leading by example for both our Masters and especially our age group swimmers. National records don't show up unless you do.' CELEBRATE MIAMI'S OCEAN This year marks the fifth anniversary of Miami's World Ocean Celebration, and to honor the milestone founders Adam Steckley of Blue Scholars Initiative and Ombretta Agró Andruff of ARTSail have expanded the one-day celebration into nine days of community-focused programming. From May 30 to June 8, more than 50 partners will host a mix of events designed to engage residents of all ages through art, science, education and hands-on conservation. Organizers said 'the goal is to create a citywide experience that celebrates Miami's unique relationship with the ocean while deepening public engagement with the environmental issues our city continues to face.' Highlights include a guided snorkel to explore the secret 'Neon Reef,' a hidden gem off the sands of Miami Beach; a paddleboard clean-up, exploration and education at Biscayne National Park; a conservation concert with Donavon Frankenreiter at the Miami Beach Bandshell; an Ocean StorySLAM at Miami Beach Regional Library featuring local storytellers and ocean activists; and a 'Sheroes of the Ocean' panel to honor women leaders who are transforming ocean conservation in Miami. More about all events, many free, at GALA RAISES FUNDS TO END ALZHEIMER'S The Southeast Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association hosted its second annual Sunshine Gala April 5 in Coral Gables to raise more than $546,000 in critical funds. Lauren Pastrana, an anchor at CBS News Miami, served as emcee for the evening, and this year's Sunshine Gala co-chairs were Josefina Carbonell and Enrique 'Henry' Piñeiro. 'What this did to our family was devastating, and this gala is a way to not only raise funds but also to increase awareness with people who can make a difference,' said Piñeiro, whose mother-in-law had early-onset Alzheimer's and passed away. Miami-Dade is the No. 1 county in the country for Alzheimer's disease prevalence, with neighboring Broward and Palm Beach counties in the top 40. An estimated 76,000 people, or 16.6 percent over the age of 65, are living with Alzheimer's in Miami-Dade County according to research by Alzheimer's Association, the worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to care, support and research. 'The Sunshine Gala was held in Miami quite deliberately. as our community is the epicenter of the disease,' said Ray of Hope Honoree Dave Lawrence Jr. 'That's why it is so important for me to do my share in raising awareness and dollars, so that it may benefit everyone, everywhere.' More at BAND HOSTS 46TH SEASON FINALE Guest conductor Tina DiMeglio will lead the Greater Miami Symphonic Band in a powerful evening of music celebrating resilience and joy at 6 p.m., May 18, at Maurice Gusman Concert Hall, 1314 Miller Dr. Selections include 'A Mother of a Revolution' by Omar Thomas, a tribute to courage and transformation; and 'One Life Beautiful' by Julie Giroux, a moving reflection on the grace of a single life. Music Director Robert Longfield will conduct a vibrant selection of works including Alfred Reed's 'Alleluia! Laudamus Te,' and John Barnes Chance's dramatic 'Incantation and Dance.' Tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for students and children over 5 years of age and are available at the box office on concert day, or in advance at Write to ChristinaMMayo@ with news for this column.
Miami Herald
11-04-2025
- Sport
- Miami Herald
North Miami boys' volleyball sets mark. Mater Lakes wrestling coach earns state honor. Plus more.
The North Miami boys' volleyball team is 11-2, after starting the season a program best 10-0 to open some eyes in Miami-Dade County. The Pioneers defeated Miami Killian twice, Miami Mourning, Miami Carol City, Miami Southridge, Miami Booker T. Washington, Miami Jackson, Westland Hialeah, Miami American. and Homestead. They also beat Hialeah Gardens. Their two losses (each 5-set battles) to Mourning and Southridge. North Miami's success is a testament to the hard work of Coach Emerson Torres, whose commitment and leadership have been instrumental in preparing the team for this school history-making run. Standout players include Benthly Osias, Victor Chrisley, Oussenaile Bernard, Christopher Borrego, and Darnel Samedy. More boys' volleyball ▪ Columbus d. Reagan 25-10, 25-23, 25-21: Lucas Riva 13 kills, 1 ace, 1 block, 2 digs; Daniel Rubi 7 kills, 1 ace, 3 digs; Dante Muñecas 7 kills, 1 ace, 3 blocks, 2 digs; Matias Claure 6 kills, 2 blocks; Charlie Friguls 31 assists, 2 kills, 2 blocks, 7 digs; Matthew Fernandez 3 assists, 1 ace, 3 digs. Col 18-2, Rea 13-2. Wrestling award Miami Mater Lakes Academy's Brandon Neifeld was named the Florida Dairy Farmers State Boys' Wrestling Coach of the Year, after leading his squad to the Class 1A team and dual meet state championships -- both firsts for the program. Neifeld, also the state's Class 1A Coach of the Year, won the overall state's coaching honor over Class 3A Coach of the Year Vince Balmeceda of 3A state champ Homestead South Dade and Class 2A Coach of the Year Joe Blasucci of 2A state champ Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy. The Florida Dairy Farmers High School Sports Awards program exemplifies Florida Dairy Farmers' commitment to the state's youth. This is the 33rd year of these unique awards honoring the state's top athletes and coaches in FHSAA-sanctioned sports. District Water Polo Miami Gulliver Prep girls' water polo won the district title with an easy victory over Miami Cutler Bay. Coach Carroll Vaughan is in her 16th season with Gulliver Prep, and the girls' team has won districts everytime, 16 times. The Raiders (22-1) advance to the region quarterfinals. ▪ GIRLS: District Championship: Gulliver Prep 19, Cutler Bay 1: Sophia Beltran (freshman) 11 blocks, 3 assists, 1 steal; Isabella Ten Have (sophomore) 4 goals, 1 assist, 1 steal; Fernanda Cerqueira (junior) 3 goals, 1 block; Kathleen Serig (senior) 4 goals, 1 assist. GP 22-1. ▪ BOYS: District Semifinal: Gulliver Prep 20, Cutler Bay 0: Captain Alberto Escobedo (senior) 2 goals, 3 assists, 6 steals; Jonas Schoenwald (junior) 2 goals, 3 assists, 1 steal; Piero Checa (sophomore) 3 goals, 2 steals; Javier Kodsi (junior) 2 goals, 1 earned exclusion, 1 steal. GP 14-7. Softball Kaley Dyer pitched a shutout and also scored as the Westminster Christian softball team edged Plantation American Heritage 2-0. The Warriors scored twice in the bottom of the second and held on for the victory. Prior, the Patriots shut out Parkland Stoneman Douglas 3-0 with pitcher Isabella Benton tossing a complete game, four-hitter. In a scoreless battle through four innings, Doral Academy scored three times in the bottom of the fifth and eight more in the sixth to defeat Coral Reef 11-0. That's 20 wins for the Firebirds. Miami St. Brendan scored seven runs in the bottom of the third to key an 8-5 victory over Miami Palmer Trinity, and Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy broke a tie with three runs in the top of the seventh and then held on for a 6-5 win over Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy. ▪ AIE 11, Chaminade-Madonna 1: Winning Pitcher Mia Gonzalez 5 IP, 1 R, 2 H, 0 BB, 5 K; Selenia Martinez 2-3, BB, R, RBI; Emily Gonzalez 2-4, 2B, BB, 3 R, RBI; Mia Gonzalez 3-3, HR, 2B, 2 R, 6 RBI; Alexa Garofalo 1-3, 2B, R, RBI; Lily Gil 2-3, 2B, 2 R. AIE 6-4. ▪ Archbishop McCarthy 6, Westminster Academy 5: Krista Confessore 2-3, 2 2B, R, RBI; Elizabeth Varona 2-4, R; Angie Sanchez 2 R; Sophia Jimenez 1-3, 2B, RBI. AM 9-5, WA 9-9. ▪ Braddock 8, Hialeah Gardens 4: Winning Pitcher Emely Ramirez 6 K; Braelen Cintron 3-4; Vanessa Builes 2-3, 2 RBI; Veronica De La Torre 2-4. Brd 10-4. ▪ Cooper City 8, Fort Lauderdale 5 (8 inn.): CC: Rylee Hedden 3-4, 3B, BB, 2 R, RBI; Lola Pedicelli 2-5, 2 R, RBI; Marina Recht 2-5, 2B, 2 RBI; Aileen Laffita BB, 2 R. FtL: Quinn McFadden 3-4, 2B; Tannar Keenan 2 R, RBI; Kylie Keenan 2 BB, 2 R. CC 4-9, FtL 7-4. ▪ Coral Springs Charter 9, West Palm Beach Dwyer 1: Winning Pitcher Courtney Wahlbrink 3 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 1 BB, 5 K; P Sophia Bertorelli 3 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 1 BB, 5 K; Mia Rodriguez 3-4, 2 2B, 2 RBI; Heather Robertson 2-3, 2B, BB, R; Gio Gurgel 2-3, 2B, BB, R, RBI; Addi Brown 2 BB, 2 R. CSC 14-3. ▪ Doral Academy 11, Coral Reef 0: Winning Pitcher Meagan Villazon 1.2 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 2 BB, 4 K; P Camila Diaz 4.1 IP, 0 R, 3 H, 2 BB, 10 K; Lauren Ali 2-3, 2B, 2 RBI; Alondra Aldebol-Borrero 1-2, 2 R; Meagan Villazon 2-4, 2 RBI; Anabela Abdullah Sac Fly, RBI; Leyani Viruet 1-3, R; Zoey Abdullah 2-4, 2B, 2 R, 2 RBI; Ashley Tremont 1-2, Sac, R, RBI; Kyla Paul 1-1, R; Sarah Breaux 2-4, HR, R, 3 RBI. Dor 20-1. ▪ Plantation American Heritage 3, Stoneman Douglas 0: AH: Winning Pitcher Isabella Benton 7 IP, CG, 0 R, 4 H, 2 BB, 1 K; Arianna Reynolds 1-3, HR, 2 R, 2 RBI; Bria Villano BB, R; Kylie Diaz 1-3, 2B; Samantha Santana 1-2, 2B, BB. SD: P Addison Zajkowski 7 IP, CG, 3 R, 2 ER, 4 H, 5 BB, 9 K; Antonia Nelke 2-3. AH 11-1, SD 6-8. ▪ South Dade 23, Homestead 7: SD: 3-4, HR, 3 R, 5 RBI; 3-4, 3B, 2 R, 2 RBI; 1-2, 2 BB, 4 R, RBI; 2-2, 2B, BB, 2 R, 4 RBI; 1-2, BB, 2 R, RBI; 1-3, 2B, R, 2 RBI; 2-3, 2B, BB, 3 R, 3 RBI; 2-3, BB, 4 R, RBI. Hst: Beyonce Almaguer 1-2, 2B, 2 RBI; Anahi Davalos 1-1, 2 BB, 2 R; Carla Romero 1-1, BB, 2 R, RBI. SD 10-5, Hst 3-2. ▪ St. Brendan 8, Palmer Trinity 5: StB: Leah Lorenzo 3-3, R, 2 RBI; Madisyn Llerandi 2-3, BB, R; Kristin Stoia 1-2, R, 2 RBI; Gabriella Barrueta 1-3, 2B, R, 2 RBI; Taylor Nielson 2-3. PT: Kinsey Cerda 1-3, 2B, BB, 2 R; Hailey Rodriguez 1-2, BB, 2R. StB 11-9, PT 9-4. ▪ Westminster Christian 2, Plantation American Heritage 0: Winning Pitcher Kaley Dyer 7 IP, CG, 0 R, 4 H, 2 BB, 9 K; Abi Barboza R; Kaley Dyer R; Gigi Khoury H; Erin Perez H; Jasmine Armenteros H. WC 12-6-1, AH 11-2. ▪ Westminster Christian 10, Schoolhouse Prep 0: Winning Pitcher Kaley Dyer 5 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 6 K; Gigi Khoury 3 H, 2 RBI; Kaley Dyer 3 H, 2 RBI; Abi Barboza 2 H, 3 R; Mya Rodgers H, R; Gaby Perez H, 2 RBI; Elise La Rosa H, RBI. WC 13-6-1. Send high school sports results For high schools in Broward and Miami-Dade counties, if you have varsity results and top performers (with stats), email hssports@ They will run in the newspaper and online. Photos accepted, too. No deadline. Send after the game, the next day or weekly. You will be alerted when it will appear in the newspaper and online. --- Roundup compiled by Jim Varsallone jvarsallone@
Miami Herald
20-03-2025
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Columbus boys' volleyball 2nd at tourney. Plus Gulliver water polo, True North sports and more
The Miami Columbus boys' volleyball team placed second at the Jungle Queen Invitational at Cardinal Gibbons in Fort Lauderdale. The Explorers (8-1) went 4-1 during the two-day event. On day one, Columbus beat Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy 25-14, 25-20; Pompano Beach 25-18, 25-12; and Miami High 25-19, 25-16. On day two, Columbus edged Miami Southwest 26-24, 19-25, 15-13 in the semifinals. Orlando Timber Creek defeated the Explorers 25-16. 25-21 in the finals. After winning eight consecutive matches, that marked their first loss of the season. Columbus tournament stats: Daniel Rubi 31 kills, .400 hitting percentage, 26 digs, 2.4 passer rating; Lucas Riva 49 kills, .333 hitting percentage, 18 digs; Matias Claure 16 kills, .406 hitting percentage; Dante Muñecas 27 kills, .339 hitting percentage; Charlie Friguls 133 assists; Matthew Fernandez 41 digs, 2 aces. More boys' volleyball ▪ Homestead d. Killian 25-10, 25-18, 25-17: Karon Williams 2 kills, 3 aces, 3 digs, 12 assists; Gilbert Reyes 4 kills, 4 aces, 8 digs, 2 assists; Angel Ramos 2 aces, 3 digs, 1 assist. Home 2-2. ▪ Plantation American Heritage d. David Posnack 23-25, 25-23, 21-25, 25-18, 15-9: A complete team effort led to the Patriots (1-2) first victory of the season. Aiden Itzkowitz receive rating 2.26, 31 digs, 31 receptions, 3 aces; Jose Castaneda 13 service points, 10 kills, 32 receptions, 11 digs; Sean Kanji 29 assists, 7 kills; Dylan De Schryver 15 kills, 7 digs; Ama're Stoudimare 12 kills, 4 blocks. Water polo Gulliver Prep boys' and girls' water polo teams continued to do well, combining on an 8-1 record at their Gulliver Prep Water Polo Invitational. The girls' squad improved to 18-1, after going 5-0 at the invitational. The Raiders beat Cooper City, Winter Park, Miami ATM, Miami Beach and Miami Mater Lakes Academy. The boys' contingent went 3-1 at the invitational to improve to 11-6. The Raiders beat Miami Country Day, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas and Winter Park. They lost to Sanford Seminole. ▪ GIRLS: Gulliver Prep 13, Cooper City 3: Kathleen Serig 4 goals, 1 steal, 1 earned exclusion; Sophia Kingston 3 goals, 5 steals, 3 assists; Sophia Beltran 10 saves, 1 assist, 1 steal; Mariana Bernal 3 goals, 1 steal. ▪ GIRLS: Gulliver Prep 5, Winter Park 4: Sophia Beltran 10 saves, 2 steals; Kathleen Serig 2 goals, 5 steals, 4 earned exclusions; Sophia Kingston 1 goal, 6 steals; Isabella Ten Have 1 goal, 3 earned exclusions, 1 assist, 1 steal. ▪ GIRLS: Gulliver Prep 8, ATM 4: Sophia Beltran 9 saves, 2 steals; Kathleen Serig 3 goals, 3 steals, 1 block; Isabella Ten Have 2 goals, 3 steals; Emma Preston 2 assists, 2 steals, 1 earned exclusion. ▪ GIRLS: Gulliver Prep 11, Miami Beach 3: Sophia Beltran 11 saves, 3 steals, 1 assist; Fernanda Cerqueira 3 goals, 1 earned exclusion, 1 steal; Sophia Ciperski 1 goal, 1 assist; Elizabeth Sheehan 2 goals. ▪ GIRLS: Gulliver Prep 7, Mater Lakes Academy 4: Sophia Beltran 6 saves, 1 steal, 1 assist; Emma Preston 1 goal, 3 steals, 1 earned exclusion; Fernanda Cerqueira 2 goals, 1 earned exclusion, 1 steal; Elena Bueter 1 goal, 3 assists, 1 earned exclusion, 1 steal. ▪ BOYS: Gulliver Prep 9. Miami Country Day 8: Matthew Preston 3 goals, 2 assists, 2 steals; Sebastian Piedra 2 goals, 1 assists, 2 steals; Alberto Escobedo 1 goal, 2 assists, 2 earned exclusion, 1 steal; Jonas Schoenwald 1 goal, 1 assist, 1 earned exclusion, 1 steal. ▪ BOYS: Gulliver Prep 16, St. Thomas Aquinas 9: Juan Sebastian Ibarra 20 saves, 2 assists, 1 steal; Alberto Escobedo 6 goals, 2 steals; Sebastian Piedra 3 goals, 7 assists, 1 steal; Matthew Preston 3 goals, 3 steals, 2 assists. ▪ BOYS: Gulliver Prep 11, Winter Park 8: Sebastian Piedra 4 goals, 3 assists, 1 steal; Matthew Preston 3 goals, 2 assists, 5 steals; Juan Sebastian Ibarra 4 saves, 1 steal; Jonas Schoenwald 2 goals. Baseball Winning pitcher Alex Diaz allowed no runs and four hits in five innings, while striking out six and walking one as the Miami True North baseball team shut out Miami LaSalle 5-0. William Foss pitched two innings of scoreless relief, giving up one hit, striking out two and walking none to combine with Diaz on the shutout. ▪ True North 5, LaSalle 0: Max Balsera (Sr) 2-3; Misael Uriepero (Sr) 1-3, RBI; Matias Fischer (Jr) 1-2, RBI; Mikey Cuenca (Jr) 1-2, RBI. TN 8-4, LaS 8-3. ▪ Doral Academy 11, Coral Park 0: Tyler Rodriguez 2-2, 4 RBI; Leandro Hernandez 2-2, 2 R; Caleb Hernandez 1-3; Winning Pitcher Matthew Paez 3 IP, 0 ER, 6 K. Dor 11-2-1. ▪ Doral Academy 11, TERRA 0: Winning Pitcher Aaron Elissalt 3 IP, 0 ER, 5 K; Jadyn Nunez 4-4, R, 3 RBI; Gabriel Milano 3-4, HR, 3 RBI; Caleb Hernandez 2-3, 2 RBI. Dor 10-2-1. Flag football ▪ True North 20, Keys Gate 0: Lola Perez (Fr) 16-of-29 passing, 163 yds, 44 rushing yds; Jazmin Montero (So) 4 rec. 19 yds, 1 TD; Julianna Romero (8th) Int, 2 Pass def; Katherine Pino (So) 1 rec,1 TD, 35 yds; Nichole Zapata (Jr) 4 tkls, 1 sck. TN 5-3, KG 3-4. Beach Volleyball True North (5-0) swept Miami Coral Reef and Doral Academy. Four of five of the Titans' pairs won in straight sets. The No.3 pairing against Coral Reef went to three sets. Lacrosse ▪ GIRLS: Palmetto 14, Key West 8: Sophomore goalie Maya Feller made 5 saves en route to her first win of the season, after sophomore goalie Sofia Cohn suffered a knee injury during warmups. Senior Orli Clarin led a strong defense with 3 groundballs and 1 caused turnover. The Panthers scoring was led by sophomore Sophie Perales and junior Samira Moore, each totaling 3 goals. Key West senior Kaitlyn Piloto led all scorers with 4 goals. Plm 7-2. Basketball The ballot for the 2025 Florida Dairy Farmers Mr. Basketball and Boys' Basketball Coach of the Year state awards includes South Florida coaches and players. They are: 7A: Romari Robinson (Miami Senior) SR G/F 14.6 pts, 6.4 rebs, 4.0 asts, 3.2 stls; Cameron Boozer (Miami Columbus) SR F 22.6 pts, 12.0 rebs, 3.2 asts, 2.0 stls; Duke signee, McDonald's All-American; Santiago Henriquez (Miami Palmetto) SR G 27.4 pts, 3.9 rebs, 5.1 asts, 3.0 stls; Maddox Fowles (Western) SR F 13.8 pts, 10.1 rebs, 3.8 blks; Cayden Boozer (Miami Columbus) SR G 13.9 pts, 3.7 rebs, 7.5 asts, 1.3 stls, Duke signee, McDonald's All-American; Coach Andrew Moran (Miami Columbus) 27-3 State Champion. 6A: Dwayne Wimbley (St. Thomas Aquinas) SR F 16.1 pts, 7.9 rebs, 2.7 asts, 1.6 stls; FSU signee; Alex Pierre-Louis (Coral Springs) SR G 22.3 pts, 6.5 rebs, 2.6 asts; Coach Julius Sandi (St. Thomas Aquinas) 30-2 State Champion; Coach Devin Barta (Coral Springs) 18-10 Regional Finalist. 5A: Max Ortega (Pembroke Pines Charter) SR G 15.0 pts, 4.5 rebs, 3.0 asts, 1.5 stls; Lorenzo Major (Miami Norland) SR G 11.5 pts, 2.4 rebs, 4.7 asts, 1.9 stls; Dylon Hanna (Blanche Ely) SR G 16.4 pts, 5.1 rebs, 2.7 asts, 2.0 stls; Coach J.R. McNabb (Blanche Ely) 20-9 State Champion; Coach Dave Roca (Pembroke Pines Charter) 19-8 Regional Finalist. 4A: Calvin Russell (Northwestern) JR F 15.2 pts, 8.0 rebs, 2.3 stls, 3.5 asts, 1.3 blks; Christian Yeargin (Stranahan) JR G 14.8 pts, 4.8 rebs, 1.0 asts; Coach Edward Schuler (Stranahan) 25-7 State Champion. 3A: Shon Abaev (Calvary Christian) SR F 20.9 pts, 7.3 rebs, 3.3 asts, Cincinnati signee, McDonald's All-American; Cristian Rosado (North Broward Prep) SR G 16.4 pts, 4.2 rebs, 2.9 asts, 2.1 stls; (Cardinal Gibbons) JR G 15.1 pts, 5.7 rebs, 5.2 asts, 3.0 stls; Jacob Marquez (Gulliver Prep) SR G 26.0 pts, 3.6 rebs, 2.7 asts, 1.9 stls; Coach Cilk McSweeney (Calvary Christian) 22-1 State Champion; Coach William Mallon (Cardinal Gibbons) 25-5 State Final Four. 2A: Chaim Galbut (Miami Country Day) SR F 16.5 pts, 10.0 rebs, 1.8 asts, 2.0 stls, 1.7 blks; Mason Fuentes (Riviera Prep) JR G 12.4 pts, 4.2 rebs, 6.3 asts, 1.5 stls; Jasen Lopez (Chaminade-Madonna) JR G 25.0 pts, 6.4 rebs, 2.2 asts, 4.1 stls; David Watson (Divine Savior) JR F 21.0 pts, 8.0 rebs, 1.4 asts, 1.3 stls, 1.8 blks; Tony Guerrero (Hialeah Educational) JR G 15.8 pts, 2.3 rebs, 3.7 asts, 2.5 stls; Alex Lloyd (Westminster Academy) SR G 27.9 pts, 3.8 rebs, 2.4 asts, 1.5 stls, UF signee; Coach Anthony Shahbaz (Riviera Prep) 21-10 State Champions; Coach Ralph Mata (Miami Country Day) 21-7 Regional Finalist. 1A: Matt Able (Sagemont) SR G 20.4 pts, 5.9 rebs, 2.9 asts, 2.1 stls; Coach David Roe (Sagemont) 22-8 State Champion. Send high school sports results For high schools in Broward and Miami-Dade counties, if you have varsity results and top performers (with stats), email hssports@ They will run in the newspaper and online. Photos accepted, too. No deadline. Send after the game, the next day or weekly. You will be alerted when it will appear in the newspaper and online. --- Roundup compiled by Jim Varsallone jvarsallone@
Miami Herald
12-03-2025
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Belen, Gulliver at Forza Stefano Water Polo. Plus college signing, soccer nominees and more
Miami Gulliver Prep excelled in boys' and girls' divisions during the 9th annual Forza Stefano Water Polo Tournament at Pembroke Pines Charter School. Twenty-eight teams (16 boys, 12 girls) from Central and South Florida participated in the three-day competition. The Gulliver Prep girls' water polo team went 4-0 to win the tournament and remain undefeated, now 12-0. GIRLS: Gulliver Prep 19, Boca Raton 1: Sofia Beltran 8 blocks, 4 steals, 2 assists; Mariana Bernal 4 assists, 1 steal; Kathleen Serig 3 goals, 2 assists; Sophia Kingston 2 goals, 2 assists, 1 steal. GP 9-0. GIRLS: Quarterfinals: Gulliver Prep 22, St. Thomas Aquinas 4: Kathleen Serig 7 goals, 5 assists, 6 steals; Sophia Kingston 5 goals, 2 assists, 8 steals; Emma Preston 4 goals, 3 assists, 2 steals; Isabella Ten Have 3 goals, 2 steals, 2 ejections drawn. GP 10-0. GIRLS: Semifinals: Gulliver Prep 15, Ransom Everglades 6: Sophia Kingston 5 goals, 6 assists, 3 steals; Kathleen Serig 4 goals, 3 assists, 2 earned exclusions, 2 steals; Isabella Ten Have 4 goals, 3 steals; Julia Fogel 1 goal, 1 assist, 2 steals, outstanding defense. GP 11-0. GIRLS: Championship: Gulliver Prep 11, West Orange 5: Kathleen Serig 4 goals, 2 assists, 3 earned exclusions, 3 steals; Emma Preston 4 goals; Isabella Ten Have 2 goals, 3 earned exclusions, 3 steals; Sophia Beltran 8 blocks, 1 steal, 1 assist. GP 12-0. On the boys' side, Miami Gulliver Prep went 3-1, defeating Riviera Beach Suncoast, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas and Miami Belen Jesuit. Miami Mater Lakes Academy won the tournament while handing the Raiders (8-4) their lone loss of the event. Belen had a very good showing, too. The Wolverines (13-1) defeated Dr. Krop 16-7 and MAST 16-5 to reach the semifinals. That's where they suffered their first loss of the season to Gulliver Prep. They regrouped to edge last year's state champ Orlando Dr. Phillips 14-13 in the bronze (third place) match. BOYS: Gulliver Prep 21, Riviera Beach Suncoast 3: Patrick Gardner 6 goals, 1 assist, 3 steals; Alberto Escobedo 3 goals, 1 assist, 5 steals; Ale Altman 3 goals, 3 steals, 2 earned exclusions; Sebastian Piedra 1 goal, 2 assists, 4 steals. GP 6-3. BOYS: Quarterfinals: Gulliver Prep 12, St. Thomas Aquinas 8: Sebastian Piedra 2 goals,3 assists, 3 steals; Matthew Preston 2 goals, 1 assist, 2 steals; Juan Sebastian Ibarra 11 blocks; Alberto Escobedo 3 goals, 1 assist, 1 steal. GP 7-3. BOYS: Semifinals: Gulliver Prep 15, Belen Jesuit 11: Patrick Gardner 2 goals, 3 assists, 4 earned exclusions, 4 steals; Jesse Manno 4 goals, 3 assists, 2 earned exclusions, 2 steals; Alejandro Altman 2 goals, 2 earned exclusions, 1 steal; Sebastian Piedra 2 goals, 2 assists, 3 earned exclusions. GP 8-3. A skilled water polo player from Pembroke Pines, Stefano Dioguardi lost his battle with cancer in 2016 at age 19, but his family was inspired to do something -- to give his life even more meaning. They created the Forza Stefano Charitable Foundation. The mission at Forza Stefano is to support cancer patients, age 13-21. Check College signing Florida Christian golfer Mason Keisch was accepted into the Naval Academy, and he will play for the NCAA Division 1 Naval Academy men's golf team. Keisch, a co-captain, has been an integral part of the Florida Christian boys' golf team the past two years, helping the Patriots qualify for state both years. In 2023, the Patriots placed fifth at state in Class 1A, and in 2024 the team was 14th at state. Keisch was a Miami Herald All-Dade second team selection in 2023 and honorable mention in 2024. Boys' volleyball Miami Columbus and Doral Reagan are unbeaten in the early goings of the boys' volleyball season. ▪ Columbus d. St. Thomas Aquinas 25-18, 23-25, 25–18, 25-18: Lucas Riva 27 kills, 3 blocks, 11 digs; Daniel Rubi 7 kills, 3 aces, 7 digs; Dante Muñecas 7 kills, 2 aces, 7 digs; Charlie Friguls 47 assists, 1 ace, 9 digs. Col 3-0. ▪ Columbus d. Braddock 25-13, 22-25, 25-22, 25-12: Daniel Rubi 15 kills, 8 digs; Marco Blavia 12 kills, 8 digs, 3 aces; Dante Muñecas 10 kills, 2 aces. Col 2-0. ▪ Reagan d. Belen Jesuit 27-25, 25-20, 28-26: Yeison Gonzalez 19 kills, 8 digs, 27 serve received, 2 aces; Diego Requena 32 assists, 7 kills, 3 aces; Diego Cobena 10 kills, 18 serve received, 3 aces; Santiago Mejias 6 digs, 13 serve received, 3 assists; Michael Perez 6 kills, 2 aces. Rea 3-0. ▪ Reagan d. Sunset 25-18, 25-17, 25-22: Yeison Gonzalez 15 kills, 10 digs, 23 serve received, 2 blocks; Diego Requena 38 assists, 3 kills, 2 aces; Michael Perez 12 kills; Santiago Mejias 18 digs, 17 serve received, 4 aces, 3 assists; Gabriel Arias 6 kills, 3 blocks, 1 ace. Rea 2-0. Lacrosse ▪ GIRLS: Palmetto 12, Ransom Everglades 11: The Panthers, coached by Jenna Martino-DiFede, improved to 5-2. Sophie Perales 3 goals, 4 ground balls, 3 turnovers; Samira Moore 3 goals, 3 ground balls; Alex James 2 goals, 1 assist, 2 ground balls; Orli Clarin 5 ground balls, 3 turnovers; G Sophomore Sofia Cohn 5 saves; G Paula Ortiz 4 saves. ▪ GIRLS: Palmetto 13, Gulliver Prep 9: Samira Moore 4 goals, 2 groundballs, 3 turnovers, 6 face-off wins; Alex James 2 goals, 3 assists; Paula Ortiz and Sofia Cohn split time in goal for the win. Plm 6-2. Softball ▪ Flanagan 19, Miramar 4: Winning Pitcher Jurnee Bent 9 K; Emily Arias 2-3, 2 R, 2 RBI; Jasmine Gonzalez 1-3, 3 R; Jurnee Bent 2-4, 2 R, 4 RBI; Amy Chacko 1-3, 2 R; Tyla Horne 1-2, 2 R, RBI; Lyric Jones 1-2, R, 2 RBI. Flan 3-3. Baseball ▪ Doral Academy 16, Homestead ABF Academy 1: Jaivyn Francois 1-1, HR, 4 RBI; Gabriel Milano 3-4, 3 R; Bryan Ravelo 1-2, RBI; Jadyn Nunez 1-2, 2 RBI; Winning Pitcher Marcelo Rodriguez 3 IP, 5 K. Dor 9-2–1. Soccer nominees The ballot for the 2025 Florida Dairy Farmers Mr. Soccer and Boys' Soccer Coach of the Year state awards includes South Florida coaches and players. They are: 7A: Liam Ulinski (Stoneman Douglas) SR CB 3 goals; Justin White (Cypress Bay) SR CB; Manuel Benen (Doral Academy) SR M 10 goals, 3 assists; Thomas Calonge (Columbus) SR M 1 goal, 1 assist; Coach Christian Chacon (Stoneman Douglas) 12-3-2; Coach Pamela McDonald (Doral Academy) 13-8-3 State Final Four; Coach Colin Ilgner (Cypress Bay) 12-5-3; Coach Kameron Clark (Columbus) 13-7-4. 6A: Chase Carroll (St. Thomas Aquinas) SR F 12 goals, 11 assists; Lucas Velazco (South Broward) SR M 9 goals, 10 assists; Tommy Visintini (Miami Beach) SR M 11 goals, 2 assists; Leonardo Pinera (Braddock) SR F 9 goals, 9 assists; Coach John Walsh (St. Thomas Aquinas) 17-7-3; Coach Manuel Soutullo (Braddock) 12-3-3; Coach Phillippe Dupont (Miami Beach) 16-4-2; Coach Lionel Brown (South Broward) 19-2; Coach Richard Pierre-Louis (Miami Beach) 16-4-2. 5A: Mike Milford (Coconut Creek) SO M/F 7 goals, 4 assists; Logan Hall (Pembroke Pines Charter) SR F 20 goals, 14 assists; Gonzalez Civil (North Miami) SR F 18 goals, 1 assist; Coach Brandon Wray (Coconut Creek) 14-3-2; Coach Marc Lue Young (Pembroke Pines Charter) 18-1-2 State Final Four. 4A: Chase Hermann (Pompano Beach) SR M 6 goals, 9 assists; Cory Edwards (Somerset Academy) JR F/M 25 goals, 20 assists; Gabriel Vinderman (Mourning) SR GK 10-1-2, 10 SHO, 0.492 GAA; Gaspar Fernandez (Belen Jesuit) SR M 7 goals, 7 assists; Gabriel Zapata (Mater Lakes) SR F 20 goals, 12 assists; Coach James Elder (Pompano Beach) 9-12-1; Coach Lance Lass (Somerset Academy) 15-6-2; Coach Daniel Tomassi (Mourning) 10-4-2; Coach Tanger Mendonca (Belen Jesuit) 15-6-6 Regional Finalist; Coach Davide Favaro (Mater Lakes) 23-2-1 State Runner-up. 3A: Luigi Olivieri (Cardinal Gibbons) SR M 6 goals, 6 assists; Raul Leyva (NSU University) JR F/M 17 goals, 11 assists; Alexander Naranjo (Miami SLAM) SR F/M 11 goals, 2 assists; Jorge Gouvea (Gulliver Prep) SR M 12 goals, 10 assists; David Derk (American Heritage) JR GK 11-4-1, 3 SHO, 0.681 GAA; Coach Eric De Sousa (Somerset Academy) 10-7-2 Regional Finalist; Coach Rafael Ferreiro (Cardinal Gibbons) 10-8-1; Coach Josue Arguijo (Miami SLAM) 14-6-3; Coach Scott Davidson (Gulliver Prep) 19-3-2 State Final Four; Coach Thiago Oliviera (NSU University) 16-4-1 Regional Finalist; Coach Victor Sanchez (American Heritage) 12-4-3 State Champion. 2A: Jorge Garcia (Chaminade Madonna) JR M 7 goals, 8 assists; Miguel Petter (Divine Savior) SR SW 21 goals, 2 assists; Cristian Garcia (Florida Christian) SR F 22 goals, 7 assists; Gabriel Suarez (Westminster Christian) JR M/F 17 goals, 7 assists; Coach Jared Ray (Chaminade Madonna) 6-5-1; Coach Santiago Botero (Divine Savior) 6-7-3; Coach Josh Kirk (Westminster Christian) 13-6-1; Coach Fernando Hernandez (Florida Christian) 11-9-3 State Final Four; Coach Arie Berti (Scheck Hillel) 17-2-1 Regional Finalist. 1A: Hopeny Louis (Highlands Christian) SO F/M 25 goals, 4 assists; Juan Padilla (North Miami SLAM) SR M/F 14 goals, 12 assists; Daniel Yanes (Pinecrest) SR M 34 goals, 6 assists; Coach Erick Roque (North Miami SLAM) 10-7 Regional Finalist; Coach Davidson Loriston (Highlands Christian) 16-7-2 State Final Four. Basketball The Orange Bowl Florida High School Basketball Showcase, presented by Memorial Healthcare System, is 8 a.m. Saturday, March 15 at the Davis Posnack JCC in Davie. The event is free to high school juniors and seniors to showcase their hoop skills in front of coaches, representing 30-plus colleges and universities. Scholarships and/or financial aid can be awarded to more than 400 student athletes. For info, go to: Send high school sports results For high schools in Broward and Miami-Dade counties, if you have varsity results and top performers (with stats), email hssports@ They will run in the newspaper and online. Photos accepted, too. No deadline. Send after the game, the next day or weekly. You will be alerted when it will appear in the newspaper and online. --- Roundup compiled by Jim Varsallone jvarsallone@
