Vote for the Joe Orthodontics High School Athlete of the Week

Thirteen athletes from across the High Desert are in the running for the weekly honor.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Daily Press is recognizing one standout student-athlete from the High Desert as Athlete of the Week throughout the 2025-26 school year. Readers can vote for their favorite high school athletes as often as they'd like, with the poll closing at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday night.

Why it matters

This weekly recognition program highlights the achievements of local high school athletes and provides an opportunity for the community to engage with and support their local sports teams.

The details

Each week, coaches submit nominations for varsity athletes, and the Daily Press selects 13 finalists based on their performances from the previous week. Readers can then vote for their choice as Athlete of the Week.

  • The poll for this week's Athlete of the Week closes at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • The Daily Press will recognize one standout student-athlete from the High Desert as Athlete of the Week throughout the 2025-26 school year.

The players

Alec Jimenez

A soccer player for Granite Hills High School who recorded three assists in two CIF State Southern California Division IV regional playoff matches.

Brooke Johnson

A softball player for Apple Valley High School who had a big week at the plate, going 12 for 17 with two home runs, six RBIs and seven runs scored in five games.

Caden Wharton

A baseball player for Granite Hills High School who had a strong week on the mound and at the plate, striking out nine batters over four innings and hitting two home runs with four RBIs.

David Cabrera

A soccer player for Granite Hills High School who scored three goals in two CIF State Southern California Division IV regional playoff matches.

DeAnthony Dyer

A basketball player for Victor Valley High School who averaged 15.5 points in two CIF State Southern California Division V regional playoff games.

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What they’re saying

“Nominations must be received for consideration by Sunday morning following that week's games. Anyone can nominate an Athlete of the Week for every varsity sport.”

— Jose Quintero, Sports reporter (Victorville Daily Press)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This weekly recognition program highlights the achievements of local high school athletes and provides an opportunity for the community to engage with and support their local sports teams.