Dear St. Francis Families and Alumni,
As the 2025-26 athletic year comes to a close, it is impossible not to reflect on what an incredible year it was for St. Francis Athletics. More than wins, championships, records, and playoff appearances, this year was about the young men who proudly wore "St. Francis" across the front of their jerseys without worrying about the name on the back. It was a year led by an extraordinary senior class, one that dedicated countless hours to their teams, their teammates, and our school community. Saying goodbye to them will not be easy.
There were so many memorable moments throughout the year. In the fall, football's thrilling victory over Cathedral in the final game of the season was unforgettable. Watching those seniors sprint across the field to sing the Alma Mater together afterward was one of the most special moments of the year. Senior Brady Cofre embodied what it means to be a Golden Knight, battling through injury after injury while refusing to leave the field and giving everything he had for his teammates.
Cross Country continued to shine behind sophomore Luke Fernandez, whose work ethic and talent are remarkable. His warm-up runs would be considered punishment by most athletes. The future of the program is incredibly bright. Senior Julian Madilian represented the very definition of a student-athlete, balancing elite academic achievement with outstanding competition on the course.
Water Polo continued its steady climb, overcoming youth and inexperience with relentless effort and defensive intensity. Junior goalkeeper Rafa Moncho emerged as one of the league's top defenders, and the foundation has been laid for an exciting season ahead.
Winter brought another wave of memorable performances. Our soccer program showed tremendous growth and toughness. Watching junior Jack Green compete was always a pleasure, and senior Chris Baghassarian's passion and leadership will be greatly missed.
Basketball reached new heights by qualifying for the Division 1 CIF Playoffs for the first time in school history. Junior Cherif Millogo electrified the crowd with thunderous dunks while the student body, alumni, and supporters created an atmosphere that made every home game feel special.
Spring sports continued the momentum.
Volleyball entered the season after graduating nine seniors from the previous year's team. The wins did not come immediately, but neither did the team quit. They continued to grow, finished third in the always-tough Mission League, and then traveled on the road to defeat top-seeded La Salle in a remarkable playoff victory.
Track & Field delivered one personal record after another. The 4x100 relay team broke a school record and advanced all the way to Masters. Watching those young men fly around the track was incredible.
Baseball made another deep postseason run, reaching the CIF Semifinals. Senior Caysen Sullivan kept hitters off balance all season long and was a joy to watch compete.
Tennis put together an outstanding 10-5 season while finishing fourth in the Mission League. Senior Armen Balikyan-Bekian brought unmatched energy, passion, and enthusiasm to every match he played.
Golf's success often highlighted sophomore Jaden Soong and freshman Greyson Graham, but senior Graham Nevell served as the backbone of a talented young team and provided leadership that cannot be measured on a scorecard.
Lacrosse reached the CIF Division 2 Championship Game and captured the attention of our entire athletic department. Senior John Black was one of the most competitive athletes on campus, giving everything he had on the field before picking up a camera and creating highlight videos that celebrated so many of his fellow student-athletes.
Finally, our swim team never stopped competing. Led by senior Danial Jamshidi, the Golden Knights competed against some of the best programs in California. Watching those athletes push through lap after lap at the Mission League Championships was a reminder of the discipline, toughness, and commitment required to compete at such a high level.
What a year it has been.
To our coaches, thank you for your leadership, sacrifice, and commitment to developing young men of character. To our student-athletes, thank you for representing St. Francis with pride. To our parents, alumni, and supporters, thank you for your unwavering encouragement throughout the year.
As former NBA legend Kobe Bryant once said, "Sports serve as the most significant analogy for life. Through sports, individuals can learn how to manage anxiety, pressure, failure, and success." — Kobe Bryant
The banners, records, and victories will always be remembered, but it is the people, relationships, and memories that make St. Francis Athletics truly special.
Thank you to our remarkable Class of 2026. Your impact on this school extends far beyond the scoreboard, and your legacy will continue to inspire future Golden Knights for years to come.
Once a Golden Knight, always a Golden Knight.
