TEMECULA – The Rancho Christian Eagles baseball team turned heads across Temecula and the Inland Valley this past spring, charging through the season with energy and passion that brought them a league crown and a lasting place in local sports history. With an impressive 15-8 overall record and dominating 14-1 mark in league play, the Eagles combined clutch play, strong leadership and relentless teamwork to rise above their competition.
Guiding the team to its league title was head coach Allan Dykstra, whose background as a first-round MLB Draft pick and Tampa Bay Rays first baseman brought a high level of expertise to the program. Dykstra, known not only for his experience but for his commitment to teaching the game’s values, helped transform the Eagles into a focused, disciplined group that trusted each other both on and off the diamond. His steady leadership helped the players develop physically and mentally, keeping them composed during tight games and hungry for every win.
The Eagles’ climb to the top was built on the grit and contributions of a group determined to meet every challenge. Among them was junior shortstop Cylis Proffitt, whose stellar play led him to be named an All-CIF Southern Section standout. Proffitt’s leadership at the plate and in the field also earned him MVP honors for the Inland Valley League, a remarkable accomplishment that set a high bar for his teammates. On the mound, Cody Horner’s arm was effective all season long, as he captured the Most Valuable Pitcher award in the Inland Valley League and delivered in crucial spots for the Eagles.
Spencer Horner, Cody’s brother, along with Sean Downs and Kayson Kobayashi, were selected to the Inland Valley League’s First Team, each bringing intensity and skill that lifted the team in big moments. These players set the tone with their consistency and hustle, making plays that swung the momentum in Rancho Christian’s favor throughout the spring.
AJ Garza, Sean Kinard and Cooper Rivera earned Second Team honors for their outstanding seasons, delivering when called upon—whether as dependable fielders, timely hitters or strategic base runners. The importance of depth was on display all year, as every member was asked to step up and contribute to the Eagles’ success.
The coaching staff also recognized the efforts of seniors Robert Vargas, Timothy Loza and Orrin Murphy, singling them out for honorable mention in the Inland Valley League. Their leadership in the dugout and their willingness to do the little things made the Eagles a rounded and unified team.
Game after game, the stands at Rancho Christian filled with family, friends and local fans eager to see something special unfold. That support turned home games into must-see events and gave the Eagles an extra push, especially in hard-fought league matchups that determined their fate atop the standings.
With the Inland Valley League title secure and a collection of individual awards in hand, the Eagles proved what’s possible with the right mix of talent, coaching and support. Team members credited one another—and their fans—for making the spring season not just a winning campaign but a springboard for the program’s future.
Coach Dykstra’s influence set an example for returning players, “We wanted to show them what can be achieved when you play for each other and keep working on your craft,” he said. “Mission accomplished, and next season we look to continue the success.”
The season’s story wasn’t just about records or hardware. Although the Eagles were eliminated in the first round of the CIF Southern Section Division 5 playoffs, their accomplishments and teamwork made it a truly memorable year. It was about young athletes growing together, facing challenges and discovering what it means to represent their school and city with pride. As the Rancho Christian Eagles look ahead, the memories and lessons from this spring will stay with them as they continue to make Temecula proud.
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