CHS is known for sending geniuses to the University of California at Los Angeles and brilliant performers to New York University. CHS has sent many students to play sports in college, but it is rare that they end up playing for a large division one school. Senior Sammy Ross proves that CHS athletes are capable of excelling.
Ross recently announced that he is committed to play baseball at the University of Arizona. The Arizona Wildcats won the national championship last year.
“Baseball has been such an important part of my life,” said Ross. “I love having fun and being out there with my friends; but above all else, I love winning.”
Ross has been playing baseball for eleven years, and even at a young age, Ross felt that he  brought a certain type of intensity to the game. He is known for his incredible work ethic and commitment to being the best on the field. All of Ross’s hard work has paid great dividends these last three years, as he has become a stand-out shortstop and hitter for CHS. Through his dedication and leadership, Ross has won the respect and admiration of teammates and coaches.
“Sammy makes the team so much better. We would not be in the situation we are without him,” said varsity teammate, senior Danny Cagan. “He is a leader and knows how to take command of the team. I look forward to watching him on TV some day.”
The process of being recruited by a major division one school includes college recruiters visiting prospective players, making a case as to why their college is the best fit for a player. There were many colleges that courted Ross; however,  the University of Arizona was Ross’s top choice and not simply because the Wildcats are the preeminent team in college baseball. Both Ross’s father and mother attended the university and Ross has grown up rooting for the Wildcats.
“The feeling of working so hard toward something you want so badly is incredible,” said Ross. “I could not be more excited to be a Wildcat.”  Written by Jake Bender – Staff Writer 

Photo Courtesy of Lauren Sloan – Photo Editor

For many high school seniors, filling out college applications and worrying about acceptance letters can consume their last year of high school. Already committed to the University of California at Santa Barbara for soccer, senior Annie Dertouzos feels confident in her decision and excited to finish out her final year.
Dertouzos started her soccer career at the age of three and began playing club soccer for Real So Cal at age eight. Dertouzos does not play for the CHS girls soccer team because she wants focus more on club soccer.
“Soccer has been my passion for years,” said Dertouzos. “Whenever I have things on my mind or I am stressed, I go and play soccer. It gets [problems] off my mind while doing something I love.”
Dertouzos contacted UCSB in the spring, and they were able to attend one of her games in June. Other schools such as Dartmouth, Brown University, Ohio State, Cal Poly San Louis Obispo, Boston University and San Diego State University also showed interest in Dertouzos, but in order to stay close to home and avoid out of state fees, she decided to commit to UCSB. Though Dertouzos was not offered a scholarship for her freshman year, she has a high chance of receiving one for her sophomore year.
Due to her ability to use both her left and right feet equally, Dertouzos has an edge over other players at UCSB. Dertouzos became ambidextrous when her father had her learn to use both feet at a young age.
“My ability to pass, kick and shoot with both feet allows me to be versatile on the field,” said Dertouzos. “I have the advantage of getting out of situations, such as being pressured, or attacked by players on the opposing team because the player will never know which foot to force me to or which foot I may play with.”
With Dertouzos’ passion and drive she will make her mark at UCSB and fulfill her dreams.  Written by Madison Hatfield – Staff Writer 

Photo Courtesy of Ivory Ventura – Photographer