Tullos, Lacaste named round table athletes of the week
A pair of first-time winners highlighted Monday’s gathering of the Northern Santa Barbara County Athletic Round Table.
At the weekly luncheon at Givanni’s Pizza, the athlete of the week award was given to Kyra Tullos of Valley Christian Academy softball and Ryan Lascaste of Orcutt Academy swimming.
Tullos captured the award after a big week at the plate.
“I was completely shocked and surprised and honored to have the award because I was not expecting it whatsoever,” said Tullos.
The senior batted .556 in a pair of victories over Shandon.
In nine plate appearances, Tullos had five hits, including four that went for extra-bases.
In a 25-2 win over the Outlaws, Tullos hit for the cycle.
She also collected 11 RBI and scored six runs.
“It has been quite a past three years and it’s been a lot of work, but it’s also been a lot of fun because I don’t play sports because it is I want to win, it’s because I love to play the game and I love playing with the other girls because that’s what makes it worthwhile,” said Tullos.
After four Coast Valley League games, the Lions are currently in second place with a 3-1 league record. Valley Christian is just one game behind first place Coast Union (4-0). Overall, the Lions have a record of 4-3.
“It’s going to be a lot of work because we still have half the season to go,” said Tullos, describing the next few weeks ahead. “We’ve done our away games and now we have our home games. I think we have a good chance to get at least second in league and we’re going to have to put in a lot of hard work and a lot of practice time, but I think we can do it.”
Lacaste won the award after a big performance during a dual-meet versus Templeton.
“I was surprised,” said Lacaste. I thought it was an April Fool’s joke or something. It means a lot because I’ve been working pretty hard for this and I’m just thankful and blessed.”
The freshman won all four of his races. Lacaste earned first place as an individual in the 100 fly and 100 backstroke.
He also won a pair of relay races, leading off medley in the backstroke and the 200 free relay.
“I’ve been doing pretty good,” said Lacaste. “I’m pretty close to my best times and I hope to drop time in league and CIF.”
As Lacaste enjoys a strong freshman season, he’s hoping to continue his success and reach the goals he’s established this year.
“For league, hopefully win every event and for CIF to get top three at least,” Lacaste said.
