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Clear Brook's Rezia Castillo
SPREADING THE WEALTH: Clear Brook's Castillo the definition of a facilitator
She has played well beyond her age and she has her sister to thank for that.
“It all began probably when I was in first grade,” said Castillo. “I have an older sister who played, and I’d go to her practices. I was on the sidelines, doing what they were doing, even though she’s six years older than me. I’ve kept playing just because it’s fun and I wanted to stick with what I loved. It has been my life ever since.”
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
What sets her apart from the pack is her unquestionable unselfishness on the court.
“I’d say my greatest strength is how I get my teammates involved,” she said. “Whenever the people around you get to contribute and enjoy themselves, I always think that’s what makes basketball more fun. As the point guard, that’s kind of my job, but it’s nice being the one directing that.”
Basketball can be a full-time gig. So, what does the Clear Brook guard do to take the edge off?
“With my personality, I think people might be surprised but I actually really enjoy reading,” Castillo said. “I could do that for hours at a time. I like anything fiction – realistic fiction, mystery, romance books. Colleen Hoover is one of my favorite authors. Everyone’s into technology now, but reading is still one of my favorite things to do.”
Clear Brook finished as undefeated (12-0) district champs a year ago, before subsequently advancing to the Regional Quarterfinals thanks to the efforts of Castillo and fellow junior guard Kamryn McLaurin. They each scored nearly 400 points on the year.
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
So, what’s it going to take to repeat that effort?
“This year is really going to be about digging in and being willing to put in the work,” said Castillo. “In previous years, our season really started over the summer, so we’re already in that process. But, when we take to the court, we’re going to have to work hard and play for each other.”
With Castillo running the show alongside McLaurin, it could be the Year of the Wolverine.
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Deer Park's Dillon Lester
THE PLAYMAKERS: Springing Into Action powered by UTMB Health
Bryan Shelton, Clear Falls Basketball Head Coach
Jamie Wight (VYPE)
The Clear Falls basketball team made school history, reaching the Class 6A Region III Finals. They just fell short of State against No. 1 Beaumont United. Well, what will first-year head coach Bryan Shelton do for an encore? Shelton played at Clear Brook and the University of Houston and is now one of the hottest young coaches in the state of Texas, earning District 24-6A Coach of the Year honors. Stay tuned
Gigi Solis, Dawson Softball
Juan De Leon (VYPE)
Every great softball team needs an ace. The Dawson Eagles have one of the best in the nation in Gigi Solis. The No. 38 player in the nation, as ranked by Extra Innings Softball, has signed with Southern Mississippi. She has a great rise ball and a crafty curve ball which are nasty. Solis hopes to lead the Eagles deep into the postseason for her senior season.
Dillon Lester, Deer Park Baseball
Justin Hartojo (VYPE)
Deer Park baseball is a big brand in the state of Texas. The Deer are a power program with several of their stars in the college game. Dillon Lester will be the next big recruit, having already signed with Baylor to be their backstop for years to come. Lester is also solid at the plate able to hit for average and power from the right side.
Wilson Klein, Lutheran South Academy Track & Field
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
The most notable cause for celebration for the Pioneers recently was when junior Wilson Klein burst onto the scene in the Pole Vault event, (15’ 1’’) setting a new school record in a recent meet. This achievement not only solidifies Klein’s name in LSA’s history but also ties him with the No. 16 ranking in the state of Texas, propelling him into TAPPS State contention.
Mileka Loydrake, Clear Brook Girls Basketball Head Coach
Photo acquired via Clear Brook GBB Twitter: @CBHSLadyBBall
Clear Brook ran through District 24-6A with an undefeated record led by first-year head coach Mileka Loydrake. Loydrake played at Clear Springs under the direction of legend Pam Crawford before playing at UH and St. Edwards. The Wolverines reached the Regional Quarters before falling to Pearland. The District 24-6A Coach of the Year is building a power program in south Houston and will return her top two stars next season – Kamryn McLaurin and Rezia Castillo.