Santiago “Santi” Castañon is a bright 5 year old Kindergarten student at Grand Terrace Elementary School. Known for his enthusiasm and positive attitude, Santi is already showing leadership qualities that may one day make him the principal of an elementary school!
Santi has been active in sports since the young age of two, playing soccer, baseball, and flag football in Grand Terrace. He loves learning new skills, meeting teammates, and building connections with coaches who help him grow both on and off the field.
One of Santi’s favorite memories is scoring his very first goal while playing in the Grand Terrace Community Soccer Club organization. In a recent soccer game with his team, the Geckos, against the Sharks, Santi celebrated his goal in true Cristiano Ronaldo fashion by leaping into the air, crossing his arms, and shouting “Siuuuu!” His excitement and energy helped his team celebrate a well earned win this past Saturday!
Santi loves everything his coaches teach him, especially about teamwork and sportsmanship. Outside of sports, he enjoys playing games on his iPad, swimming, riding his bike and scooter, jumping on his trampoline, and picking guavas and lemons from his family’s backyard which is a fun hobby he shares with his parents, Junior and Idalia.
One of Santi’s biggest accomplishments so far is learning math, and he is eager to keep improving his skills in school. When asked what motivates him, Santi proudly said, “My mom, dad, and Jasiah,” referring to his nephew. Jasiah is the son of Jacob and Anissa, which both proud Grand Terrace High School alumni. Jacob played football and Anissa was a cheerleader.
Looking ahead, Santi dreams of becoming a firefighter or an elementary school principal. His goals include learning how to side kick a soccer ball and learning to speak Spanish. Before or after games, Santi enjoys his favorite treats, such as Dunkin’ Donuts and his family’s delicious chorizo and egg burritos.
We are so proud of Santi and cannot wait to watch him continue to grow, learn, and succeed. He is an amazing young athlete whose determination and joy will take him far. The best is yet to come for this Future Titan!