Sports and their love for the Lord played a big part of high school life for Valley Christian Academy seniors Rojelio Paniagua and Krista Hall.

As they prepare to graduate tonight alongside their 12 classmates, the teens - who also managed to hold their own academically while taking part in athletic pursuits - said they'll miss playing for Valley Christian, but are ready to take the next step in their lives, with God guiding their way.

Both soon-to-be graduates said they were grateful for the opportunity to have a Christian education.

“Coming to this school helps me strengthen my faith in the Lord and that extends out to every aspect of my life,” Hall said, adding that her parents sacrificed a lot to come up with the tuition money to send her to Valley Christian because they believed in the school's message.

That knowledge, Hall said, inspired her to excel.

Tonight, Hall will graduate with a 3.6 grade point average, a feat she accomplished while playing varsity volleyball and softball.

However, with softball in particular, Hall stood out from the crowd, serving as team captain for two years, and earning the distinction of Most Valuable Player.

Advertisement

Next year, Hall will attend Allan Hancock College, where she will study nursing.

Eventually, Hall said, she hopes to obtain her master's degree in nursing and work in a clinical setting.

In the end, “I just want to live my life for the Lord and do the best I can while I'm here,” she said.

Like Hall, Paniagua is a gifted athlete.

This year, the defensive lineman was named first team All-League for football, after being named second team All-League the prior season.

All this despite tearing a ligament in his knee twice.

The injury has taken its toll on Paniagua's body, however, and doctors told him that he cannot play football next year at Hancock.

“I really like (football), but it's not worth another surgery,” he said.

However, all is not lost.

While at Hancock, Paniagua - who volunteers on Wednesday nights at the First Baptist Church daycare - plans to pursue his studies toward becoming an elementary school teacher.

“It's just amazing how much (kids) look up to you. I want to be an example for them.”

The Valley Christian Academy graduation begins 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church auditorium, at 2970 Santa Maria Way.

Natalie Ragus can be reached at 347-4580 or nragus@santa

mariatimes.com

June 6, 2008