Zion Phelps from Loyola Shines as the Fastest Runner in the Mission League
Loyola High’s Zion Phelps Sets Record at Mission League Finals
In a remarkable debut on the track, Loyola High’s Zion Phelps has emerged as the standout athlete of the Mission League finals, where he clocked a record-breaking 10.49 seconds in the 100-meter dash. This victory, achieved on Thursday at Sherman Oaks Notre Dame, has solidified his position as the fastest runner in the league.
“I’m beyond grateful,” Phelps expressed, sharing an emotional moment with his coach, Sharaud Moore, moments after his victory. A junior defensive back for the Loyola football team, Phelps showcased his athletic versatility and potential, emphasizing the opportunities ahead in both track and football.
Meanwhile, Ejam Yohannes, another standout from Loyola, contributed to the school’s impressive performance by anchoring the victorious 4×100-meter relay team. The team defeated Notre Dame for the first time in three years, finishing with a time of 40.75 seconds. Yohannes also won titles in the 400 meters (47.05 seconds) and the 200 meters (20.85 seconds), the latter marking the fourth-best wind-legal time in California this year.
Notre Dame’s JJ Harel also made waves by qualifying in three events, achieving heights of 6 feet 10 inches in the high jump, 22 feet 5¼ inches in the long jump, and securing a spot in the triple jump.
The day was not without its surprises, particularly during the girls’ 100-meter final, where Nalia Keyes of Chaminade and Maya Rios of Bishop Alemany finished in a rare tie at 12.46 seconds. “It’s weird,” Rios commented, reflecting on her unique experience.
In the Marmonte League final, Demare Dezeurn of Westlake showcased his speed by winning the 100 meters with a time of 10.39 seconds, narrowly outpacing Jaden Griffin of Newbury Park (10.50 seconds) and Kingston Celifie of Calabasas (10.56 seconds). Dezeurn previously played football for Palisades before transferring to Westlake.
Baseball Highlights
In baseball, Sylmar secured a dominating 10-0 win against Kennedy, highlighted by a grand slam from Rickee Luevano. Westlake triumphed over Newbury Park with a score of 10-3, as Dylan Lee homered and Holden Backus contributed two hits and three RBIs.
Bishop Amat edged out La Serna with a 3-2 victory, thanks to Ray Castro’s six strong innings and an RBI single. Temecula Valley also enjoyed a victory, defeating Vista Murrieta 3-1, with Grayson Martin allowing only one hit and striking out seven in six innings. Oaks Christian earned a notable 17-8 win against Calabasas, propelled by Ryan Sheffer, who hit two home runs and amassed four RBIs.
Softball Recap
In softball, Garden Grove Pacifica bested Cypress 4-1, featuring an RBI triple from Jenna Valladares and a complete game from Shay Kletke. Sherman Oaks Notre Dame overwhelmed Louisville 16-0, with Jackie Morales delivering three hits and six RBIs.
A dramatic Mission League match unfolded between Harvard-Westlake and Chaminade, ending in a walk-off grand slam by Kale’a Tindal, who contributed four hits and four RBIs. Murrieta Mesa blanked Great Oak 8-0, highlighted by Tatum Wolff’s stellar performance—striking out 10 batters and also contributing with a home run.
