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2026 Athletics Banquet
Copyright 2026 Kayla Stuart, All rights reserved.

Menlo Celebrates Memorable Year At Annual Athletics Awards Banquet

5/19/2026 3:32:00 PM

ATHERTON, CA – Uniting to recognize the heart, grit, and leadership of its incredible student-athletes, Menlo College capped off the 2025-26 seasons with its annual Athletics Awards Banquet. Extending the ceremony to include a full slate of Non-NCAA awards for the first time, the celebration featured a lively team dinner and striking photo ops at the iconic Menlo "M" before culminating with an opportunity for the NCAA teams to shine. Proudly competing in the navy blue and white throughout the fall, winter, and spring campaigns, the Oaks honored those who left it all on the field/court/mat, led with purpose, and continued a tradition of excellence.

2026 Athletics Banquet Award Winners:


Don Baikie Athletes of the Year: The Don Baikie Female and Male Athlete of the Year Awards are named in honor of a long-standing Menlo College Hall of Fame Director of Athletics; these awards are the most prestigious honor a Menlo athlete can earn. They are awarded to outstanding female and male athletes for an academic year, who by their accomplishments in their sport, have brought notoriety and success to their team and the intercollegiate athletic program.

Women

Louisa Schwab – Women's Wrestling

Louisa put together one of the most dominant seasons in Menlo history. She finished the year with only one loss, consistently proving herself as one of the top wrestlers in the nation while competing against elite competition throughout the season. Schwab's standout campaign was highlighted by a third-place finish at the prestigious North Central College Invitational, a tournament loaded with world and national team members. She also captured titles at the Menlo Open and the MPSF Championships, where she was named MPSF Women's Wrestler of the Year and earned All-Conference honors. In dual competition, Louisa remained undefeated all season, providing the Oaks with a reliable and dominant presence every time she stepped on the mat. Her ability to perform in the biggest moments, combined with her consistency and leadership, made her a driving force behind the program's success. Through her championship performances, elite talent, and unwavering excellence all season long, Schwab set the standard for greatness and proved herself worthy of Menlo's Athlete of the Year honor.

Men

Kanaipono Tapia – Men's Wrestling

Kana'i capped off a remarkable senior season, putting together one of the most impressive showings in Menlo history, finishing with a 39-2 record. Tapia won the MPSF Championship and earned All-Conference honors while remaining undefeated in dual competition, helping guide the Oaks to their second straight MPSF Team Title. He continued that success in postseason action by winning both the NCWA California State Championship and the NCWA West Coast Conference Championship, playing a major role in Menlo securing another team title. Against elite competition, Kana'i placed fifth at the Roadrunner Open in a bracket loaded with Division I All-Americans, while also winning titles at the ERAU Mile High Open and the Menlo Open. He closed out his stellar career in dominant fashion by winning the 165lb NCWA National Championship and earning Outstanding Wrestler of the Tournament honors, leading the Oaks to their second straight national team title. Through his consistency, leadership, and championship performances all season long, Kana'i set the standard for excellence and proved himself worthy of Menlo's Athlete of the Year honor.
 

Oak Athletes of the Year: The Oak Female and Male Athlete of the Year Awards are the most prestigious honors a Menlo Non-NCAA athlete can earn. They are awarded to outstanding female and male athletes for an academic year, who by their accomplishments in their sport, have brought notoriety and success to their team and the intercollegiate athletic program.

Women

Kaitlyn Marie Reclusado – Taekwondo

Competing in Poomsae for the Menlo Taekwondo Program, Kaitlyn put together one of the most decorated seasons in program history, dominating on every stage from regional events to international competition. Her remarkable year was highlighted by a gold medal at the 2025 FISU World Games, where she represented Menlo against elite athletes from around the world and stood atop the podium. She followed that with another gold medal at the Junior Pan-American Games, proving once again that she performs at her best when the stakes are highest. Kaitlyn's dominance continued throughout the season with gold medal finishes at the Berkeley Fall Open, PacWest North Regional, US Team Trials, and NCTA Collegiate Nationals where she was also named Female Poomsae Athlete of the Year. No matter the stage, the result was the same—excellence. Through discipline, precision, and relentless preparation, Kaitlyn set the standard for greatness while proudly representing Menlo every step of the way. Her achievements brought recognition to the program, inspired those around her, and showcased what it means to compete as an Oak. Signing off on an unforgettable championship season and a trophy case full of gold, Kaitlyn Reclusado finished as the Oak Female Athlete of the Year.

Men

Ryan Padron – Weightlifting

From Kihei, Hawaii, Ryan Padron has been a dedicated member of the Menlo community throughout his four years as a full-time student-athlete, building one of the most decorated careers in recent Oaks weightlifting history. A bronze medalist at the American Open Series, silver medalist at the 2024 University Nationals, and this year's Hawaiian State Champion, Ryan consistently performed at an elite level. He saved his best for last at University Nationals, delivering a career-defining (6-for-6) performance in the Men's 86kg session with a personal record 271kg total to earn 2nd place and All-American honors. Ryan went three-for-three in the snatch and built up to a 117kg snatch PR before closing out his final collegiate competition with an electric clean and jerk series, finishing with a lifetime best 154kg to secure his spot among the nation's best. Beyond the platform, he contributed across campus as a student employee in the Post Office and Athletic Game Operations, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and pride in representing Menlo.
 

Bud Presley Coach of the Year Award: The Bud Presley Coach of the Year Award is presented to the Head Coach who, by way of success on the field of play, in the community, or in the classroom has made a major impact on the lives of their student athletes and the Menlo College Community.

Joey Martinez – Men's Wrestling

Joey Martinez led Menlo Men's Wrestling to another historic season and continued to elevate the program to new heights. Under his leadership, Martinez led the Oaks to capture their second straight NCWA National Title, crowning six individual national champions and earning nine All-Americans on the way to a dominant team title performance. Martinez also guided Menlo through another outstanding dual season, while helping the program maintain its culture of excellence, discipline, and consistency. The Oaks secured their second straight MPSF Team Championship, with multiple individual conference champions and All-Conference selections continuing Menlo's rise as a powerhouse. Through his vision, leadership, and unmatched success this season, Martinez proved himself deserving of Menlo's Coach of the Year honor in his final season at the helm of the wrestling program.
 

Oak Coach of the Year Award: The Oak Coach of the Year Award is presented to the Head Coach of a Non-NCAA program who, by way of success on the field of play, in the community, or in the classroom has made a major impact on the lives of their student athletes and the Menlo College Community.

Cristian Vasquez – NCWA Wrestling

Cristian Vasquez has made an immediate and lasting impact in just his second season at the helm, making him a deserving recipient of the Oak Coach of the Year Award. His leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence have helped elevate multiple programs while continuing to build a championship culture at Menlo. One of his most significant accomplishments this year was helping start and pioneer the NCWA Women's Wrestling team alongside Associate Head Coach Julissa Taitano. In the program's inaugural season, the Oaks made history by finishing second as a team at the NCWA National Championships, setting a strong foundation for future success. On the men's side, Vasquez continued to develop high-level performers and postseason success. Under his guidance, six wrestlers placed in the top three at the NCWA West Coast Conference Championships, eight athletes qualified for the NCWA National Championships, and four earned All-American honors on the national stage. Through his ability to build programs, develop student-athletes, and lead teams to immediate success, Cristian Vasquez has proven himself as one of the top coaches in Menlo Athletics.
 

Sports Performance Iron Oak Award: The Sports Performance Iron Oak Awards honor a female and male student-athlete who best embodied the messages and goals of the Sports performance department through hard work and commitment, in and out of season.

Women

Haley Narahara – Women's Wrestling

A quiet leader who always leads by example, Haley consistently shows up ready to work, lifting the most weight with quiet determination and unmatched consistency in her performance. Her steady presence and commitment to excellence have set a new standard for what it means to be an Iron Oak — both in the weight room and beyond. She has forever raised the bar for future athletes in our program through her relentless work ethic and team-first mindset. Along with her unmatched work ethic, Haley repped out eight wheels on her hip thrusts, a total of 484lbs which is more than any male or female wrestler lifted in the program. Haley's dedication has been rewarded with multiple All-American honors, and she continues to be a trusted leader to everyone in the program.

Men

Mathias Collins – Men's Wrestling

Mathias attacks every training session with a relentlessly positive attitude and brings high energy as a vocal leader. He is always the one lifting the room, whether during team lifts or staying after to help teammates outside of scheduled sessions so they can keep getting better. His commitment to the grind is unmistakable — literally and figuratively breaking the ball when attacking power movements with explosive intent. Mathias has shown tremendous growth this year, earning national-level recognition while continuing to chase new PRs in the weight room. His dedication both in season and out has made him one of the most respected and hardest-working athletes in the program.
 

Non-NCAA Sports Performance Iron Oak Award: The Sports Performance Iron Oak Awards honor a Non-NCAA female and male student-athlete who best embodied the messages and goals of the Sports Performance department through hard work and commitment, in and out of season.

Women

Neila Fritts – NCWA Women's Wrestling

Neila has set the standard day in and day out, leading not only with their voice, but through their actions. Whether in the weight room, on the track, or in practice, they consistently push themselves while elevating everyone around them, embodying what it means to be an Iron Oak. Atlas closed out their career in historic fashion by becoming the first-ever national champion in NCWA Women's Wrestling, cementing their legacy as one of Menlo's all-time greats. 

Men

Ashley Geary-Smith – NCBA Baseball

Ashley Geary-Smith is the embodiment of what it means to be an Iron Oak, making him a deserving recipient of the Male Iron Oak Award. He consistently goes above and beyond in every aspect of his preparation, always searching for an edge over the competition and finding new ways to improve. His relentless mindset separates him from the rest—never allowing obstacles, adversity, or challenges to slow him down. No matter the circumstances, Ashley continues to push forward with determination and purpose. Most importantly, he always shows up. Day after day, he brings the same energy, commitment, and work ethic that inspires those around him. Through his toughness, consistency, and drive to be better, Ashley Geary-Smith has set the standard for what it means to be an Iron Oak.
 

Sports Medicine Perseverance Award: The Sports Medicine Perseverance Awards are granted to a female and male student-athlete who best embody the message and goals of the Sports Medicine department through tenacity, dedication, and a self-driven attitude to achieve success in sport after injury.

Women

Milan Pineda – Women's Soccer

Milan experienced one of the most life changing injuries a collegiate athlete can experience. During a spring game in the offseason, she sustained an injury causing a major setback in her collegiate career. However, knowing Milan, she was determined to do whatever it takes to get back onto the field like nothing ever happened. Her hard work and determination shined through and went above and beyond within the training room. She always proved to everyone that she can overcome any obstacle and achieved every goal that was given to her. She is a true representation of a Menlo College athlete and continues to persevere towards excellence in every aspect.

Men

Michael Torres – Men's Wrestling

In Fall 2024, Mikey received news that no athlete wants to hear, a season-ending injury. Along with some emotion the news was met with a quiet calm, he was ready to face this like another match in a tournament. From that point forward, Mikey quickly went to work and became an example for those facing the same battle, showing what it takes to get through these injuries. Along the way, there were roadblocks that didn't slow him down and before everyone knew it… he was cleared and back on the mat. This past March, all the hard work came to fruition with a perfect outing at NCWA Nationals, leading to All-American status and his own national title.
 

Non-NCAA Sports Medicine Perseverance Award: The Sports Medicine Perseverance Awards are granted to a Non-NCAA female and male student-athlete who best embody the message and goals of the Sports Medicine department through tenacity, dedication, and a self-driven attitude to achieve success in sport after injury.

Women

Lastevia Muir – NCWA Women's Wrestling

Lastevia Muir is the embodiment of perseverance, making her a deserving recipient of the Perseverance Award. Throughout the year, she faced multiple physical setbacks while continuing to compete and contribute to the team's success. Just before the postseason, Muir suffered an injury at the conference championships hosted at Menlo—an obstacle that could have ended many athletes' seasons. Instead, she attacked her recovery with determination, consistently showing up for rehab and doing everything possible to prepare herself for Nationals. Her resilience and commitment were rewarded on the biggest stage. At the NCWA National Championships, Muir made program history by becoming the first-ever All-American in NCWA Women's Wrestling history and earning a fifth-place finish nationally. Through adversity, discipline, and an unwavering mindset, Lastevia Muir proved exactly what perseverance looks like.

Men

Diego Cesar Chaidez – NCWA Men's Wrestling

Diego is the perfect example of perseverance. Diego has had multiple years of consistent injury that has kept him from competing. Despite being out for over a year, Diego kept moving forward. He worked through the responsibility of being an resident assistant and a leader for the NCWA Men's Wrestling team and never missed a rehab session with everything on his plate. Diego was able to make his return towards the end of the season, winning his first match in almost two years with a pin in the first round against San Jose State. Even after returning, he has been a steady presence in the training room putting in work every day.
 

Athletic Department Service Award: The Menlo College Athletic Department Service Award is presented each year to a student whose contributions to the athletics department by way of sports information, game operations, or marketing and promotions are immeasurable.

Giorgia Melcore – Game Operations / Women's Soccer

From Milan, Italy, Giorgia Melcore has embodied the true spirit of service and dedication throughout her time at Menlo College. While balancing the demands of being a four-year goalkeeper for the Oaks, Gio consistently went above and beyond in her role as a student worker, contributing across sports information, game operations, marketing, and promotions. Even during her competitive season, she could always be counted on to step in wherever needed, bringing a positive attitude and willingness to serve that left a lasting impression on staff, coaches, and peers alike. Over the past three years, she has played an integral role in supporting all 16 sports' home events, becoming a trusted and dependable presence behind the scenes. Whether on the field or working tirelessly in the background, Gio has been a cornerstone of the Menlo Athletics community, and her impact will be deeply felt long after she graduates.
 

Glen E. Dorst Award: Originating in 1957 and sponsored by alumnus Glen E. Dorst, who took an active interest in the development of youth in athletics, the Glen E. Dorst Award is presented each year to a Menlo College senior male or female student-athlete who most personifies the standards of sportsmanship in each phase of his/her life.

Stephanie Chavez – Women's Wrestling

Known for bringing positive energy to competition, the mat room, and the classroom, Stephanie consistently uplifted those around her. A natural leader, her sportsmanship has been reflected in how she treats others, supports her teammates, and even makes time to cheer on friends in other sports. Stephanie leads with respect, humility, and encouragement, creating an environment where others feel valued and motivated. Her character, selflessness, and unwavering positivity is unmatched.
 

F. Philler Curtis Award: The F. Philler Curtis award is presented each year to a senior female student-athlete who by scholarship, leadership, and athletic ability has made an outstanding contribution to campus life at Menlo College.

Emma Wilson – Softball

Emma Wilson is the embodiment of what the F. Philler Curtis Award represents, whose scholarship, leadership, and athletic ability have made a lasting impact on campus life at Menlo College. Serving as Student Athlete Advisory Committee President and the PacWest SAAC Representative, Emma has gone far beyond the expectations of her role, taking the lead in all aspects of student-athlete engagement, from outreach and event planning to communication and mentorship of fellow SAAC members. She has been the driving force behind initiatives like "Snackin' with SAAC" at home events and thoughtful gestures such as organizing good-luck notes for every team on campus, consistently finding ways to build connection and support across the athletic community. Emma's leadership is defined not just by what she accomplishes, but by how she elevates those around her, creating a more unified and spirited Menlo experience.
 

Señor Carlos Lopez Award: The Senor Carlos Lopez Award is presented each year to a senior male student-athlete who by scholarship, leadership, and athletic ability has made an outstanding contribution to campus life at Menlo College. 

Martin Fiala – Men's Soccer

A leader both on and off the field, Martin has been an active member of the Student Government Association while achieving academic excellence with a perfect 4.0 GPA. He has also demonstrated innovation and drive beyond athletics, earning 1st place at the Global Scaling Challenge in 2025 and the 2026 CFA Institute Research Challenge. In recognition of his exceptional academic achievement, he was named the Senior Transfer Male Athlete recipient of the Collis Steere Academic Excellence Award, the most prestigious academic honor in the Menlo Athletics department. On the field, Martin has been a steady and reliable presence in goal over the past two seasons, helping anchor the program with his consistency and composure. His performances have earned him All-Conference recognition and multiple weekly honors, reflecting both his skill and leadership. Martin's ability to balance elite academics, campus involvement, and high-level athletic performance speaks to his character and dedication, and he leaves behind a lasting impact on the Menlo community.
 

Don W. Baer Award: The Don W. Baer award originated in 1954 in memory of Don W. Baer, a former manager for the football team. This honor is awarded each year to either a senior male or female student-athlete who shows the greatest qualities of all-around leadership.

Donald Holliday – Men's Soccer

Donald exemplifies the very best of Menlo College, consistently demonstrating outstanding all-around leadership both on and off the field. His excellence extends far beyond the field, earning recognition as the 2025 Menlo Athletics Sports Performance Iron Oak Award recipient and a CSC Academic All-District honoree for his achievements in the classroom. Donald has also made a meaningful impact across campus through his roles as a Community Advisor, Game Operations student worker, and member of the post office team, consistently showing a commitment to serving others. On the field, he has been a reliable and selfless presence playing nearly 3,000 minutes as a defensive winger. Known for his work ethic, leadership, and willingness to do whatever is needed for his team, Donald has left a lasting mark on the Menlo community both on and off the field.
 

Oak Leadership Award: The Oak Leadership Awards are presented each year to a Non-NCAA female and male student-athlete who personify the standards of sportsmanship in each phase of their life.

Women

Gwendolyn Tomkins – NCWA Women's Wrestling

Gwendolyn Tomkins is a true example of leadership, sportsmanship, and character, making her a deserving recipient of the Oak Female Leadership Award. As an upperclassman leader, she has embraced the responsibility of guiding those around her and setting the standard for what it means to represent Menlo. Tomkins plays a vital role in helping run practices, sharing her knowledge, and teaching technique to younger teammates as she helps pave the way for the next generation of the program. Her willingness to lead, mentor, and invest in others has made a lasting impact far beyond competition. In every phase of her life—as a teammate, competitor, and leader—she consistently demonstrates respect, integrity, and selflessness. Through her example and commitment to others, Gwendolyn Tomkins truly personifies the values recognized by the Oak Female Leadership Award.

Men

Ashley Geary-Smith – NCBA Baseball

A leader on and off the field, Ash always puts his best foot forward for everyone whether it be in the classroom, on the diamond, or in the office. On the field, he leads by example as one of the team captains, spending additional time with new players to ensure they feel welcomed and appreciated. Ash also works hard in the classroom, supporting a 3.93 GPA as a Sports Management major. Outside of the class, he serves as a Community Advisor for his peers, once again making sure everyone has a home away from home.
 

Fall Sport Athletes of the Year: 

Women

Fuka Kikuchi - Women's Volleyball

An All-PacWest Second Team honoree, Fuka finished the season ranked fifth in the PacWest at 3.47 kills per set and 3.91 points per set, remaining among the top 10 for virtually the entire year. Along with her offensive success, she was responsible for 2.07 digs per set, making her one of just four conference players to average over 3.45 kills and 2.00 digs per set. The PacWest Player of the Week once after recording two of her six double-doubles this season, Fuka posted 10 or more kills in 17 matches highlighted by the 24 she put down in a 3-1 win over Biola. She also finished in the PacWest's top 10 for aces per set after having six aces in the Oaks' win to end the season.

Men

Isak Haukefaer – Men's Soccer

Isak Haukefaer, a 5'11" forward from Bergen, Norway, delivered an outstanding 2025 season as one of the Oaks' most dangerous attacking threats. Starting in 14 of his 17 appearances throughout the year, he consistently led the line with his ability to create scoring opportunities and finish in crucial moments. He totaled 10 goals and one assist on 20 shots, showcasing both his efficiency and attacking presence, while also contributing three game-winning goals. His impact on the field earned him multiple weekly honors, including PacWest Player of the Week recognition, as well as a national spotlight with a D2 National Player of the Week award following a five-goal stretch across two games. Capping off his standout season, Isak was named to the All-PacWest Conference Team, solidifying his place among the top attackers in the conference.
 

Winter Sport Athletes of the Year:

Women

Alberte Frisch – Women's Basketball

Demonstrating her uncanny ability as a three-level scorer, Alberte delivered at least 250 points in each year of her Menlo career, pouring in 480 this season as she simultaneously solidified herself among the top 10 in virtually every career statistical category for the Oaks. A two-time PacWest Player of the Week and two-time All-PacWest Team recipient, Alberte achieved her 1,000-point milestone earlier this season, ranked top 10 in the PacWest in field goal percentage, three-point percentage, free throw percentage, assists and steals per game all while leading the conference in scoring the entire way. She scored in double figures in 25 of 27 games, highlighted by her career-high 32 points in a win over Chaminade.

Men

Isaiah Morales – Men's Wrestling

Isaiah consistently delivered in the biggest moments, establishing himself as one of the top wrestlers in the nation. He opened his season by winning the Menlo Open before placing second at the MPSF Conference Championships, earning All-Conference honors and helping the Oaks secure their second straight MPSF Team Title. Morales continued his dominant run in the postseason by capturing the NCWA West Coast Conference Championship. His season reached its peak at the NCWA National Championships, where Morales claimed the national title at 174lbs and helped Menlo to its second straight national team title. Through his consistency, leadership, and championship performances all season long, Morales proved himself a deserving recipient of the Winter Male Athlete of the Year honor.
 

Spring Sport Athletes of the Year:

Women

Kim Penzold - Women's Golf

Truly excelling and emerging as the team leader of Menlo Women's Golf in just her first collegiate season, Kim finished in the upper tier of virtually every tournament she competed in this year. The native of Rathenow, Germany was the runner-up to the RCA Electric Invitational champion in just her second competition of the year this past September and returned in 2026 to impressively shoot a 4-over-par 76 or better in her first seven rounds of the spring. Part of that stretch helped her secure her first collegiate title as she captured the RCA Electric Spring Invitational crown before making it back-to-back top finishes at The Big Freeze two weeks later. Twice the PacWest Golfer of the Week during that stretch, Kim also earned a national ranking for her efforts and ended with a 75.1 scoring average. Closing out her freshman year in strong fashion, Kim placed inside the top 10 for the seventh time this season, ending as the runner-up to the PacWest Conference Champion.

Men

Oliver Hogan – Baseball

The junior infielder from Seattle, Washington, has been the driving force behind the Oak Baseball's success this season, delivering one of the most complete offensive performances on the roster. Stepping up in every sense, Hogan led the team in multiple categories, including a .372 batting average and an outstanding 1.133 OPS. He showcased both power and consistency at the plate, totaling 55 hits with 11 doubles, two triples, and a team-high nine home runs, while racking up 97 total bases. Hogan also contributed 29 RBIs and crossed the plate 40 times, proving to be a constant scoring threat, while adding 10 stolen bases to round out his all-around game. His toughness and presence were evident as well, getting hit by pitch 20 times and drawing 11 walks to keep innings alive. Among the PacWest leaders, he ranked third in hit-by-pitch, sixth in OPS, and eighth in slugging percentage. He was also recognized as PacWest Player of the Week for his standout performance against Concordia Irvine and earned PacWest Second Team All-Conference honors for his outstanding contributions this season. His consistency, resilience, and production have made him one of the most impactful hitters in the conference.
 
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