These Central Valley natives are making big moves around the country.
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Ethan Quinn
San Joaquin Memorial alum Ethan Quinn and his doubles partner Nicholas Godsick have earned a wild card spot for the US Open main draw after winning the boys’ 18s doubles title on Saturday in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Quinn and Godsick were forced to play indoors as the rain poured in Kalamazoo. But the pair went outside after their victory and celebrated in the rain with their families.
“Different photo shoot for winning the title, ducking out in the rain. We thought we’d go for something different. I hope the pics come out pretty good.” Godsick told TENNIS.com. “I didn’t check the weather, which is not the smartest. When I woke up and saw the rain, I was quite surprised. It was pretty much a waiting game. This is tennis, this is what we signed up for. That’s the sport.”
Quinn raved about the strong bond he shares with his partner.
“Our firepower and energy is electric. We just get each other,” the University of Georgia freshman told TENNIS.com. “We know exactly what we’re doing. Our minds are alike. We know when to move. We have that sense around the court, and I think that’s dangerous.”
Quinn, who finished as runner up in the singles championships, also earned the Allen B. Stowe Sportsmanship award.
The 2022 US Open begins Aug. 29 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York. The qualifying rounds will be held from Aug. 23- 26.
Emma Brown
Clovis North grad Emma Brown, who is now continuing her soccer career at Cal Poly Sal Luis Obispo, has earned a special recognition from the United Soccer Coaches organization. The group has named Brown to its “Defender to Watch” list, making her one of 35 players in Division I women’s soccer to earn the honor.
The Clovis native appeared in 20 of 21 matches for the Mustangs as a freshman in 2021 and started 17 games. Brown was named to the 2021 Big West All-Freshman Team. She was also ranked No. 56 on TopDrawerSoccer.com’s Women’s Freshman Top 100 list last season.
At Clovis North, Brown earned the 2019 and 2020 Tri-River Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year award. She also helped the Broncos earn the 2020 CIF Central Section Division I title.
Bella Cruz
Kerman’s Bella Cruz made her debut for the Cal State Fullerton Women’s soccer program when her team played in an exhibition game streamed on ESPN+ on Aug. 14. Cruz joins the Titans after a completing a stellar high school chapter.
The Kerman native was named as MVP of the varsity women’s soccer team every year during her high school career. She also excelled in tennis, cross country and track. Cruz was just as impressive outside of sports. She earned the principal’s award all four years of high school.