GTHS Athlete of the Week Gabriela Jacome Avendao

At just 17 years old, Gabriela Jacome Avendaño is proving that hard work and passion can take you far in both the classroom and on the soccer field. A Senior at Grand Terrace High School, Gabriela balances a demanding schedule while maintaining an impressive 3.7 GPA, showing that excellence does not stop when the final bell rings.   Gabriela’s love for athletics started early. She has been playing soccer for an incredible 12 years and has stayed active in multiple programs, including Cross Country, Track & Field, and four years in the GTHS Marching Band. Today, she proudly defends the net as the Lady Titans’ Goalkeeper.   More than just stopping shots, Gabriela is a leader on the field as a Team Captain. In a recent matchup against Fontana High School, she stood out by constantly communicating with her teammates and helping with calling out opposing players, directing defensive coverage, and knowing exactly when to call for the ball. Her awareness and confidence helped keep the team focused and energized throughout the game.   Gabriela’s dedication shines just as brightly in the classroom. She has earned recognition through the ACES program, the Principal’s Honor Roll, and AP Test accomplishments after scoring a 3 or higher on an Advanced Placement exam. This is proof that she thrives in both academics and athletics.   When she’s not competing, Gabriela can be found playing the alto saxophone, showcasing her creative side and well-rounded talents.   When asked who inspires her most, Gabriela answered without hesitation: “My dad has been the biggest influence in my life. He has always pushed me to succeed in my education and in sports.”   Looking ahead, Gabriela plans to attend a four-year university, major in Chemistry, and continue to medical school with the goal of becoming a doctor. She also hopes to keep her soccer journey alive by playing at the collegiate level.   One quote that motivates her, shared by Coach Bert, perfectly captures her mindset: “Just because you didn’t reach your goal does not mean you failed.”   Watching Gabriela’s growth over the past years has been nothing short of inspiring. With her talent, determination, and strong support system, she is poised to keep shining both on and off the field. The future is incredibly bright for this Lady Titan.