Meet Evalina Padilla, a dedicated and talented student athlete making waves at Grand Terrace High School. At just 15 years old and currently a Freshman, Evalina has already distinguished herself academically and athletically, maintaining an impressive 4.2 GPA while excelling in multiple sports.
Evalina’s passion for sports began early—she started gymnastics at the age of three, followed by soccer with GTCSC, and later played T-ball for GTLL. Over the years, she has built lasting friendships and forever memories through her athletic journey. However, her path was not without challenges. Two years ago, Evalina suffered a severe ankle injury that could have ended her soccer career. A misstep during a game resulted in a fracture that went through her tibia, fibula, and growth plate, causing a displacement of the bones. With the help of a dedicated medical team and months of physical therapy, she made a remarkable recovery and returned to the sport she loves a year later.
Currently, Evalina plays Defense as a Fullback for the Grand Terrace High School Varsity Girls Soccer Team. She also competes with Redlands Sporting CA, where she showcases her skills as a forward and outside midfielder. Beyond soccer, she has demonstrated her versatility by playing Freshman Volleyball as an outside hitter and softball for Grand Terrace Little League as a catcher and outfielder.
One of Evalina’s biggest accomplishments is earning a spot on the GTHS Varsity Soccer team as a Freshman. She has also been selected to play in the All-Stars teams for both GTCSC and GTLL. Her academic achievements include making the Assistant Principal’s Honor Roll in middle school with a 3.9 GPA and continuing her success with a 4.2 GPA in high school.
Looking ahead, Evalina is determined to help her GTHS Varsity Soccer Team achieve All-League and All-CIF honors. She dreams of attending a four-year university, ideally UCLA where she hopes to continue playing soccer. Her aspirations also include earning a degree in Fire Science or Technology and pursuing a career as a firefighter, with the possibility of playing professional soccer.
When asked about her biggest influences, Evalina credits her mother for shaping her journey and pushing her to excel both academically and athletically. She also acknowledges her brother, whom she describes as her best friend, for always being by her side through injuries and personal challenges.
In her free time, Evalina enjoys spending time with her family and friends, practicing soccer, playing games, building model cars, and solving puzzles.
A quote that resonates with her is, “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice” – Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
Evalina extends her gratitude to her GTHS Varsity Soccer teammates for making her Freshman year an incredible experience. She also wants to thank the coaches who have played a pivotal role in her soccer journey: Coach Tommy Rivero, Coach Renae Walker, and Coach Noris Rhodius from GTCSC; Coach Jason Cassady from Club; and especially her current coach, Coach Kelsey Gudgeon, who welcomed her back post-injury without hesitation and continues to believe in her potential.
We wish this Lady Titan all the best in her bright future. With her talent, dedication, and unwavering support system, there is no doubt that Evalina will continue to shine both on and off the field. The best is yet to come!