This week’s Players of the Week showcased exceptional performances across multiple sports, highlighted by record-breaking efforts, dominant pitching, clutch hitting, and all-around excellence. From the baseball diamond to the flag football field, these athletes delivered standout moments that propelled their teams to key victories and demonstrated their impact in every phase of competition.
Baseball Player of the Week: Eric Valdivia (Hope International, Jr.)
Eric Valdivia delivered one of the most remarkable single-game performances in program history, rewriting the Hope International record books in a dominant 16-3 victory over Bethesda. The junior exploded at the plate, going a perfect 4-for-4 with four home runs, 11 RBI, and 16 total bases—setting new single-game school records in all three categories. He also drew a walk and tied a school record with five runs scored, showcasing a complete offensive performance that few players ever achieve.
Beyond his historic outing, Valdivia contributed across the week, finishing with a .417 batting average and a staggering 1.417 slugging percentage. He added another hit in the series against Arizona Christian, demonstrating consistency even outside of his record-breaking game. His ability to change the game with one swing made him a constant threat and a deserving recipient of this week’s honors.
Baseball Pitcher of the Week: Josh Landry (Hope International, Sr.)
Josh Landry turned in a dominant week on the mound, highlighted by a complete-game, three-hit shutout in a 2-0 win over Arizona Christian. The senior left-hander was in complete control from the outset, retiring the first 15 batters he faced and finishing with 11 strikeouts while issuing no walks. His performance marked his fifth double-digit strikeout game of the season and the ninth of his career, underscoring his sustained excellence.
Landry also etched his name deeper into program history, earning his record-breaking 25th career win during the week. He contributed an additional scoreless inning in a win over Bethesda, finishing the week with 12 strikeouts across eight innings and a perfect 0.00 ERA. His command, composure, and ability to dominate opposing lineups continue to set the standard for Hope International pitching.
Softball Player of the Week: Brianna Humphries (OUAZ, RS Jr.)
Brianna Humphries powered the OUAZ offense with an explosive week at the plate, hitting .500 while posting a .600 on-base percentage and a 1.500 slugging percentage. The redshirt junior tallied six hits, four of which left the yard, driving in 10 runs and scoring five times. Her ability to consistently deliver in key moments made her the centerpiece of the Spirit’s offensive attack.
Her most memorable performance came in a thrilling win over Embry-Riddle, where she launched three home runs in a single game, including a dramatic walk-off blast. Impressively, Humphries did not strike out once during the week, highlighting her discipline and control at the plate. Her combination of power and precision proved vital in every game she played.
Softball Pitcher of the Week: Kaitlyn Maaske (Hope International, So.)
Kaitlyn Maaske played a pivotal role in Hope International’s four-game sweep of Park Gilbert, contributing both as a starter and in relief. The sophomore went 2-0 with two saves, demonstrating remarkable versatility and composure in high-pressure situations. She opened the series with a five-hit shutout, striking out six without issuing a walk in a narrow 1-0 victory.
Maaske continued to deliver throughout the weekend, throwing another complete game in a 5-3 win and stepping in to secure saves in two additional contests. Across 15.2 innings, she allowed just three runs for a 1.34 ERA while striking out 12 batters. Her ability to handle multiple roles and shut down opponents in critical moments anchored her team’s success.
Flag Football Offensive Player of the Week: Anahi Morales (Hope International, Fr.)
Anahi Morales led a high-powered Hope International offense to an undefeated showing at the OUAZ Jamboree, completing 49 of 76 passes for 495 yards and 10 touchdowns. The freshman quarterback displayed poise and efficiency, guiding her team to victories over Arizona Christian, OUAZ, and Benedictine Mesa while helping the Royals outscore their opponents 91-13.
Morales was particularly dominant against Arizona Christian and Benedictine Mesa, throwing four touchdown passes in each contest. She also contributed on the ground, rushing for 90 yards and two touchdowns during the week. Her dual-threat ability and command of the offense made her a constant challenge for opposing defenses and a key factor in her team’s perfect conference record.
Flag Football Defensive Player of the Week: Taylor Zalunardo (Simpson, Fr.)
Taylor Zalunardo made her presence felt on both sides of the ball, but it was her defensive impact that stood out most during the week. The freshman recorded 25 total tackles across three games, including a dominant 12-tackle performance in a win over OUAZ. Her ability to read plays and consistently disrupt opposing offenses was a cornerstone of her team’s defensive efforts.
In addition to her tackling, Zalunardo contributed with two tackles for loss, two sacks, and an interception return for 15 yards. Her versatility extended to the offensive side as well, where she caught 12 passes for 89 yards and two touchdowns. This all-around performance highlights her value as a dynamic and reliable playmaker.
Men’s Tennis Player of the Week: Karan Srivastava (Hope International, Jr.)
Karan Srivastava competed at the top position for Hope International, taking on the challenge of facing each opponent’s best player. The junior recorded a strong singles victory against Mt. SAC, winning in straight sets (6-3, 6-0), and followed it up with another decisive win against Biola (6-0, 6-1). His ability to dominate in singles play provided key momentum for his team.
While facing tough competition against nationally ranked Claremont-Mudd-Scripps, Srivastava continued to battle at both singles and doubles positions. Competing at the No. 1 spot in both formats, he demonstrated resilience and leadership throughout the week. His willingness to take on top-tier opponents and deliver strong performances highlights his importance to the team.