Twenty-six SMCHS Students Celebrate Athletic Commitments at Spring Signing Day

Twenty-six student-athletes from Santa Margarita Catholic High School made their athletic plans evident on Friday, May 1, as they celebrated their commitment to attend colleges from across the country for their sport.

Additionally, 48 SMCHS student-athletes celebrated their college commitments for their respective sports in the fall with more student-athletes expected to announce their commitments in the coming weeks. This is the fourth consecutive year SMCHS has had more than 70 honorees, representing one in six members of the senior class continuing their athletic careers at the college level. In a time that is particularly challenging for high school student-athletes seeking opportunities to play in college, Santa Margarita’s athletic program, coaching, strong academics and emphasis on character make SMCHS student-athletes desirable recruits, said Associate Director of College Relations Mike Hiserman. 

“This is a testament not only to our student-athletes and their families, but also the coaches, trainers, counselors, faculty and other positive influences who surround them,” Hiserman said.

As a college-fit advisor, Hiserman collaborates with student-athletes, coaches, college counselors and families to help facilitate opportunities for those interested in competing at the college level. The program is available to all student-athletes at Santa Margarita, regardless of whether they play for a school team.

To view photos from the event, click here.

Santa Margarita Catholic High School congratulates the following student-athletes: 

BASEBALL

Zack Stein of Irvine has committed to Whittier College for baseball. 

Zack lives the SM motto of blue-collar baseball. He has a career on-base percentage of better than .450, in part because when Zack digs in at the plate, he doesn’t give an inch – he’s led his team in being hit by the pitch in each of the past three seasons. With the Arenado Baseball Club and Legacy Baseball Group, Zack has earned numerous accolades, including an MVP award by USA Premier Baseball. Perfect Game Baseball has placed him on the West Coast Top Prospect List and to an all-tournament team. Zack is a four-year scholar athlete who has maintained a 3.64 grade-point average and membership in the California Scholarship Federation. Zack has volunteered at San Francisco Solano Church, with Vocational Visions Clubhouse, the Never Ever Give Up Foundation, Little League Baseball’s Challenger program, and he has been an umpire for Northwood Little League. In his spare time, Zack enjoys golf and going to Angels games. 

Luke Blanchard of Ladera Ranch has committed to Towson University for baseball.  

Luke is a three-year varsity outfielder for the Eagles, and a hitter who has gained a reputation for coming through in the clutch. Off the diamond, Luke has earned scholar-athlete awards each season, accumulating a 3.75 grade point average. He is a member of the National Honors Society and the California Scholarship Federation. He also serves his community as a President of R12, a Christian Father-Son service organization, in which Luke dedicates time and energy to serving those in need throughout Southern California and Mexico. In his free time, he enjoys going to the beach and spending time with friends and family.

MEN'S BASKETBALL

Drew Anderson of Ladera Ranch has committed to Stanford University for basketball.
Drew, a starting forward, was a three-year varsity player for the Eagles. Known his tenacity on both ends of the court, he was a two-time All-Trinity League choice, having helped the Eagles win league titles the past two seasons. This past season, he was co-MVP of the league in addition to being chosen first team All-Orange County and first-team All-State. Drew also received the prestigious Breakout MVP Award on the 3SSB circuit last year while playing for the Jalen Green Elite club team. Off the court, he carries a 4.0 grade-point average and is a dedicated leader for RTwelve — a community-based Christian volunteer organization for fathers and sons — where he exemplifies character, faith, and service. Drew also enjoys going to the beach and wake surfing near his family’s lake cabin.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL 

Madilyn Lam of Irvine has committed to the United States Air Force Academy for basketball. 

Madi was the Eagle basketball team’s point guard as well as the dynamic quarterback of its flag football team. In basketball, she was a two-time team captain, first-team All-Trinity League choice and All-Orange County selection after transferring from Esperanza High School. At SM, she was team MVP after earning Crestview League MVP recognition as a sophomore at Esperanza. Madi also is a four-year Varsity scholar-athlete, having maintained a 4.4 grade-point average. Off the court and football field, she has been involved as a member of the SM yearbook staff and various clubs. Away from campus, Madi is active in her church, and she has been a volunteer summer coach for the Irvine Swim League, as well as a mentor to youth basketball and flag football athletes at various camps.

Janaya Williams of Rancho Santa Margarita has committed to Point Loma Nazarene University for basketball. 

Originally from the Bay Area, Janaya is a four-year Varsity scholar-athlete who transferred to Santa Margarita Catholic High School for her senior year. She contributed to teams that won three CIF-NorCal regional championships in the Open Division, two West Catholic Athletic League championships, three CIF-Central Coast titles and three times were State runner-up in the Open Division. She also was a two-time Nike Tournament of Champions champion, and an Oxford Prep all-tournament selection. Off the court, Janaya volunteers as a children’s ministry teacher at Pleasant Hill Christian and has completed service hours with Sacred Heart Food Bank and Atria Senior Living. At her previous high school, she was a three-year member of the Black Student Union, supporting inclusion and cultural awareness. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to the beach, reading, and listening to music.

DANCE 

Ava Woinarowicz of Dana Point has committed to Washington State University for dance.  

Ava is a three-year member of the Santa Margarita Song Team, as well as a team member of Innovate Dance Studio’s Worlds Team. She is an OC Artist of the Year Semifinalist for dance for 2026. She has been a student in IB Dance for two years. Outside of dance, Ava has maintained a 3.71 grade-point average and gained membership in the California Scholarship Federation. She also is active in the SM community as a Link Crew Leader, Peer Minister and Student Ambassador. Away from campus, Ava volunteers at Vocational Visions and Family Assistance Ministries.

Camille Strier of Coto de Caza has committed to the University of Tennessee for dance.

Camille Strier is a four-year varsity member and a senior captain of the Eagles’ nationally ranked song team, in addition to being an All-American recipient. In her career, she helped lead SM’s team to three consecutive first overall placements in Advanced Pom at USA Nationals, Top 5 Jazz placements at UDA Nationals for two years, and Top 10 Pom placements at UDA Nationals all four years. In the classroom, Camille has maintained a 4.17 grade-point average, earning recognition as an AP Scholar, National Honor Society member and California Scholarship Federation member. Camille was also an Orange County Artist of the Year Nominee. Camille is a Peer Minister, Student Ambassador, Link Crew Leader, and President of the Miracles for Kids Club, a nonprofit for which she has served for many years. She also has trained with South County Dance Company for 14 years, earning multiple regional and national titles with trios, small and large groups, and as a soloist.

Brooke Vurpillat of Ladera Ranch has committed to San Diego State University for dance.

Brooke is a four-year varsity scholar-athlete as a member of the Eagles’ nationally ranked song team. This year, she was a team captain and a recipient of an All-American award. She helped the Eagles place first in the Advanced Pom category at USA Nationals for three consecutive years, top 5 at UDA Nationals in the D1 Jazz category for two years, and top 10 at UDA Nationals in the D1 pom category all four years. Off the stage, Brooke has maintained a 4.5 grade-point-average. She is an AP/IB scholar, member of the National Honors Society and an honor cord recipient, National Art Honors Society, and Life Member/Sealbearer with the California Scholarship Federation. She is also a Link Crew leader, student ambassador, ASB Commissioner of Campus Life, and Vice President for clubs Live Love L’Arche, Live Like JoJo, and Miracles for Kids. Away from school, Brooke dances with Pave School of the Arts and she was selected for the Velocity MVA plus program, touring the country to train with industry professionals.

FOOTBALL

Jules Guerdat of Laguna Hills has committed to Wesleyan University (CT) for football. 

Jules is a four-year scholar-athlete and, as a quarterback for the State Championship-winning Eagles, was known for his positivity and team-first mindset. Off the field, Jules has maintained a 4.38 grade-point average and is a member of the National Honor Society, California Scholarship Federation, and Lions Heart, a community service organization. Fluent in French, Jules has a strong interest in business and entrepreneurship, having founded a small business and developed a youth football consulting endeavor. He also volunteered as a Special Camp counselor. Jules is an avid skier who has tested slopes around the world. 

Siua Holani of Eastvale has committed to Sacramento State University for football. 

Siua became a two-year varsity starter for the Eagles after transferring from Mater Dei. As a senior, he was a first-team All-Trinity League choice and member of the All-CIF-Southern Section Division I team, as well as Special Teams co-MVP for the Eagles, a second-team All-Orange County pick by the OC Register, a CalHi-Sports all-state nominee and honorable mention on the Prep Red Zone’s All-Southern California team. He made 63 tackles, forced three fumbles and had three interceptions – including a huge pick in the end zone versus previously undefeated Sierra Canyon and a 45-yard Pick 6 in the State title game against Concord De La Salle. Off the field, Siua is grounded in his faith and proud of his association with the First Tongan United Methodist Church in Pomona.  

Griffin Brahm of Dana Point has committed to the University of Southern
California for football.

Griffin is a four-year scholar-athlete who played running back and tight end over the course of his career with the Eagles. He had a standout senior season as SM won CIF-Southern Section Division I and State Open Division championships. Griffin earned first-team All-Trinity League and a selection to the Orange County All-Star Game, where he was chosen as a team captain. Off the field, Griffin has been recognized for his character and leadership, receiving the Brad Dillahunty Memorial Scholarship. He has maintained a 3.72 grade-point average and is a member of both the National Honor Society and the California Scholarship Federation. Griffin enjoys spending his free time at the beach.

Ivrick Carrigan of Hawthorne has committed to Arizona Christian University for football.

Ivrick is a two-year varsity football player and track & field athlete for the Eagles after transferring from Los Alamitos High School in January 2024. He was a starting outside linebacker on the SM team that won CIF-Southern Section Division I and State Open Division championships and was a second team All-Trinity League choice. Before the season, he was recognized as the No. 6 Class of ’26 linebacker in Orange County by Prep Red Zone and was a Cal-Hi Sports All–Orange County selection. In track, Ivrick is a sprinter who contributed to three record-setting relay teams. He also throws the shot put. Ivrick has maintained a 3.54 grade-point average and is actively involved in the CHOC Club and National Spanish Honor Society. In his free time, he enjoys going to the beach, exploring new food spots, and playing basketball with friends.

MEN'S GOLF

Alex Sheehan of San Clemente has committed to Denison University for golf. 

Alex is a four-year varsity golfer and scholar-athlete for the Eagles and was a team captain this season, as a senior. Among individuals, he finished tied for 21st at the 2025 State Championships, helping SM to a runner-up finish in the team competition. He also was a first-team All-Trinity League selection. Away from the course, he has maintained a 4.6 grade-point average, earning First Honors on SM’s Honor Roll all seven semesters so far, along with recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction.

Landon Frank of San Clemente has committed to Cameron University for golf. 

Landon is a four-year Varsity athlete and was co-captain of this year’s Trinity League champion Eagles golf team. He also competes in events sponsored by the San Diego Junior Golf Assn., Futures Champions, SCPGA, AJGA and USGA, as well as other local amateur tournaments. For the Eagles, he is a two-time All-Trinity League second-team selection and last year contributed to a Santa Margarita Catholic team that finished second at the State Championships. In the classroom, Landon has maintained 3.54 grade-point average, making SM’s Honor Roll four times with second honors. In Landon’s free time he likes to… golf! But he also enjoys relaxing with family and friends.

MEN'S LACROSSE

Robby Garrett of Mission Viejo has committed to Illinois Wesleyan
University for lacrosse. 

Robby is a starting defensive midfielder and team captain for the Eagles, who went undefeated in winning the Trinity League championship this season. Known for his toughness, leadership and consistency, Robby has been a key contributor to SM’s program for four seasons, bringing energy and discipline on the defensive end of the field. He also played two seasons of football for the Eagles. In the classroom, Robby has maintained a 4.17 grade-point average and is a member of the National Honor Society, having earned Honor Roll distinction in seven consecutive semesters. Beyond athletics and academics, he is deeply committed to service, completing seven years of volunteer work with the community service organization Lion’s Heart.

MEN'S SWIMMING

Sam Zhou of Irvine has committed to Claremont McKenna College for swimming. 

Sam is a CIF-Southern Section finalist in the 100 butterfly and 100 breaststroke, and also a State Championships qualifier in those events. He earned a silver medal at the 2024 Speedo Sectionals, Fullerton and scored at the Texas Junior Nationals representing the Irvine Novaquatics Swim Club. Sam is a two-time NISCA All-America Top 100 honoree, a USA Swimming Scholastic All-American, and a USA Swimming National Age-Group (15-16) Top 50 performer. Sam spent his first three years of high school at Portola High School in Irvine and achieved the SM honor roll with First Honors in his first semester last fall. Overall, he has maintained a 4.16 grade-point average and earned AP Scholar recognition.

Adam Cuthbert of Trabuco Canyon has committed to the University of the Pacific for swimming.

Adam is a two-year Varsity letterman for the Eagles and is a CIF automatic qualifier in the 50 and 100 freestyle this year. He’s also part of a 200-freestyle relay team that has posted the fastest time in the state. Adam contributed to three Trinity League championships and was a 2025 individual finalist. A three-year scholar-athlete who has maintained a 3.9 grade-point average, he qualified as an NISCA Academic All-American this year. He also is a member of the California Scholarship Federation Honors program. A skilled musician, Adam is a three-year member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, the National Art Honor Society, and recently was nominated for Orange County Artist of the Year. He participated in SM’s Keys 2 Happiness Music Club, performing piano at assisted living centers, while also serving as shadow leader, student ambassador and retreat leader. Away from campus, Adam volunteers for the Down Syndrome Association of OC/OC Bike Camp and worked as an Operations Lifeguard at Wild Rivers during the summer months.  

WOMEN'S SOCCER

Mia Corona of Cypress has committed to the University of California at Los Angeles for soccer. 

Mia played for the Eagles as a freshman and sophomore, helping SM to a pair of CIF-Southern Section Division I championships and a State Regional championship. And she has been a key contributor and a captain for the U.S. U17 Women’s National Team, helping it qualify for the U17 World Cup. She also has trained with multiple professional teams, gaining valuable experience competing at the highest levels of the game. Known for her work ethic, leadership, and high-level play, Mia consistently performs against top competition and has a resume that includes being a NIKE-sponsored athlete. In addition to her athletic achievements, Mia has excelled in the classroom, maintaining a 3.58 grade-point average. She is currently taking 12 classes in order to be able to reclassify from the 2027 graduating class to this year’s.    
 

Gwyneth Dygean of Coto de Caza has committed to Connecticut College for soccer.
Gwyneth is a four-year scholar-athlete – her first two years at JSerra Catholic High School and with the Eagles as a junior and senior. A defender, she helped SM win back-to-back Trinity League championships. At JSerra, she was honorable mention to the All-Trinity League team and won a team Coach’s Award. In the classroom, Gwyneth has maintained a 4.33 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society and California Scholarship Federation. In the community, she has dedicated more than 950 community service hours, including meaningful work with Special Camp. She enjoys the beach, yoga and fitness.

WOMEN'S TRACK & FIELD

Riley Szuba of Trabuco Canyon has committed to Lehigh University for track & field. 

Riley is an outstanding all-around athlete, having excelled in club and high school soccer as well as being a four-year Varsity track runner who advanced to the CIF Finals for the past two years in the 800 meters. She also was part of a school-record-setting 4 x 800 relay team. In the classroom, she has maintained a 4.53 grade-point average while earning First Honors on the SM honor roll all seven semesters so far, as well as scholar-athlete recognition for every Eagles’ team she’s been a member. Riley belongs to the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, the California Scholarship Federation and is treasurer of the Music Honor Society. She also volunteers for Buddies Beyond Boundaries, a club that supports children with Down Syndrome. 

Olivia Smyth of Coto de Caza has committed to University of California at San Diego for track & field.

Olivia specializes in the 300-meter hurdles, an event she began to run halfway through her junior season. She quickly established herself as one of the top competitors in California and beyond, maintaining a ranking in the top nine in the state and top 25 in the nation. As a junior, she was a CIF-Southern Section and Trinity League Champion and earned All-State in both the 300-meter hurdles and for the 4 x 400 relay. A varsity team captain, she was the Eagles MVP for track as a junior. In the classroom, Olivia has maintained a 4.36 grade-point average while earning First Honors on SM’s honor roll in each semester. Away from campus, she enjoys volunteering at Durango Farms, playing the piano, and spending time with family and friends.

WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY / TRACK & FIELD

Lauren Temple of Yorba Linda has committed to Bowdoin College for cross country and track & field.

Lauren is a four-year varsity scholar-athlete and an International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate, having maintained a 4.55 grade-point average. As a four-year varsity cross-country performer, she contributed to three CIF runner-up team finishes and three State Finals podium appearances, earning All–Trinity League honors three times. In track and field, she is a member of two school-record-setting relay teams. Beyond athletics, Lauren is an active member of both the National Honor Society and the National Art Honor Society. She also is deeply committed to community service through the National Charity League, supporting organizations such as Meals on Wheels, HIS-OC, and earning recognition with the Presidential Service Award.

Alahna Thomas of Ladera Ranch has committed to the University of California at Irvine for cross country and track & field. 

Alahna is a two-time team captain for both the Eagles’ track and cross country teams and a four-time All-Trinity League choice and state qualifier in cross-country. On the track, she has won multiple all-league awards and was the 2025 Trinity League Champion at 3200 meters. She also was a member of two school-record-setting distance relay teams. Elsewhere on campus, Alahna has maintained a 4.11 grade-point average – being recognized on the Honor Roll for “first honors” in each of her semesters at SM -- while participating in Peer Ministry and Link Crew. In the community, she has served as a volunteer in children’s liturgy at San Francisco Solano Catholic Church while also working, from the time she was 13, at her family’s business, BallPark Pizza Team.

MEN'S VOLLEYBALL

Fenton Regan of Rancho Santa Margarita has committed to North Greenville University for volleyball. 

Fenton not only is a three-year varsity volleyball player, he also played three seasons of soccer and three seasons of beach volleyball for the Eagles. He was a major contributor in Santa Margarita’s 2024 run to a CIF-Southern Section indoor championship, and as a senior is leading the Eagles in kills. All this after picking up the sport after enjoying an SM summer camp for volleyball before his freshman year. Fenton, who has maintained a 3.51 grade-point average, is the recipient of North Greenville University President Scholarship as well as a volleyball scholarship and SM’s Alumni Association Scholarship. He is the 7th Regan to graduate from Santa Margarita with an NCAA athletic scholarship. In his free time, you can find him at the beach surfing or playing volleyball.

MEN'S WATER POLO

Evan Wu of Irvine has committed to Stanford University for water polo. 

Evan is a four-year varsity starter and scholar-athlete for the Eagles. A three-year team captain, he helped lead the team to three consecutive CIF Southern Section playoff appearances in the Open Division, was chosen to the 2025 All-Southern Section Open Division first team and the 2025 California/Hawaii Boys’ All-American Team. He was the Trinity League’s player of the year both as a junior and senior but is most proud of winning the Trinity League championship with his teammates this past season. Evan is a member of the USA U18 National Team, having represented the United States in Malta and Italy. In the classroom, he has maintained a 4.57 grade-point average and is a four-year USA Water Polo Academic All-American Outstanding Honors Award recipient.

Pedro Mattiazo of San Clemente has committed to Long Beach State University for water polo.

Pedro is a four-year Varsity scholar-athlete who played goalkeeper for the Eagles after transferring from San Clemente High School after his junior season of water polo. At San Clemente, he was a second-team All-South Coast League choice. At Santa Margarita, he earned first-team All-Trinity League honors after helping the Eagles to a league championship. He played on teams at both schools that won Villa Park Tournament titles and his last San Clemente team and first and only Santa Margarita team were unbeaten in league play. Pedro serves as a lifeguard during the summer and in his free time enjoys surfing, listening to music and spending time at the beach.