The CIF Southern Section recently announced its selections for the 2025 fall sports awards, highlighting exceptional performances across girls’ flag football, girls’ volleyball, and boys’ water polo. Student-athletes from the local coverage area made a strong showing, earning recognition for their hard work and skill throughout the season.
In girls flag football, the sport continues to grow rapidly across the region. The CIF Southern Section released its awards last week, with four local players earning spots among the elite. While 25 players from surrounding cities were chosen, these four stood out for their contributions inside the local coverage area.
In Division 4, Great Oak junior Angelina Hinojosa earned selection as a defensive back. Her ability to read offenses and disrupt plays proved vital for the Wolfpack throughout the year. Temecula Prep sophomore Bailey Litt also secured a spot on the Division 4 team. Playing both wide receiver and safety, the 10th grader demonstrated versatility on both sides of the ball.
As a dominant force on the field and an exceptional leader off it, Litt was also recognized this past weekend by The Los Angeles Rams. The Rising Stars campaign highlights local SoCal youth and high school football players based on their on-field performance, sportsmanship, leadership, and positive impact on game days. As noted on their website, with over 1,300 receiving yards, 25 touchdowns, and 73 receptions with only two drops, she’s known for having some of the best hands in the game.
Ranked third in the nation for interceptions, Bailey’s athleticism is matched by her character, kind, respectful, intelligent, and funny. She’s been named MVP, All-CIF, and a CIF Champion, and consistently recognized as the best teammate across multiple teams. Bailey leads by example and uplifts everyone around her, making her a true ambassador for girl’s flag football.
Another sophomore making waves in Division 4 was Sierra McMackin of Temecula Valley. Selected for her performance as a quarterback and running back, McMackin directed the Golden Bears’ offense with poise beyond her years. Moving to Division 5, Vista Murrieta junior Ella Ballard was recognized as a rusher, showcasing the speed and agility that made her a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks.
The accolades continued on the volleyball court, where the CIF Southern Section honored standout players from the 2025 season. In Division 4, two local seniors were named to the First Team. Grace Toth represented Linfield Christian, concluding her high school career with a memorable season. Joining her on the Division 4 First Team was Malia Jones of Paloma Valley, another senior leader who consistently delivered for her squad.
Division 7 saw a significant number of local athletes earning First Team honors. Elsinore High School had two seniors selected in Olivia Stanley and Jaycee Hullar. Their chemistry and experience were key factors in Elsinore’s competitive play this year. West Valley also celebrated two senior selections, with Deonys Ioane and Kamryn Hubbell receiving recognition for their dominant play at the net and in the backcourt.
Towards the end of 2025, the CIF Southern Section also released awards for boys’ water polo. The Temecula Valley Golden Bears emerged as the most successful local team, advancing all the way to the Division 3 championship match. Although they fell just short in a tight 10-9 contest against Bonita, their postseason run garnered significant respect.
Three Temecula Valley seniors were named to the Division 3 First Team All-CIF list. Chase Wedell, Connor Liu, and Laszlo Nemeth were instrumental in guiding the Golden Bears to the finals. Their leadership and production in the pool set the standard for the program this season.
In Division 4 water polo, the local area was well represented by athletes from Hemet and Liberty. Hemet junior Ray Henderson earned his spot on the First Team after a strong campaign. Liberty High School had three players selected, highlighting the depth of their roster. Seniors Cael Hansen and Gavin Stephens joined junior Chase Mankin on the All-CIF team, capping off a successful year for the Bison.
These awards reflect the dedication of student-athletes, coaches, and families who invest countless hours into their respective sports. The recognition serves as a marker of success for these young players as they continue their athletic careers in 2026.
Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.
