Edward De Leon, an 18-year-old senior at Grand Terrace High School, is a model student-athlete with a GPA of 3.5. Balancing academics and sports, Edward has demonstrated remarkable dedication and perseverance.
Edward’s journey in sports began in elementary school when his parents sought an outlet for his boundless energy. Despite challenges in focus and behavior, a pediatrician advised channeling his energy through sports rather than medication. His mother enrolled him in various sports at the local recreational park, including soccer, basketball, and baseball. Additionally, Edward began running extensively, covering three miles at just five years old. By eight, he could run a mile in six minutes, and at ten, he joined an adult running group in Los Angeles, comfortably running six miles at a seven-minute pace and biking twenty miles.
Edwar’s athletic prowess extended to junior triathlons and various running events, earning numerous medals in 5Ks, 10Ks, and triathlons. At eleven, his family moved to Riverside, and Edward focused solely on baseball, playing little league at Pico Park. The COVID-19 pandemic paused his freshman baseball season, but he made the varsity team as a sophomore, enhancing his skills through private hitting lessons and playing for the Prime Travel baseball team during summer seasons.
One of Edward's significant achievements was winning the League Championship with his high school team during his sophomore year. His junior year saw participation in the USA National Team Championship and being named the Citrus Belt Area Male Athlete of the Year for GTHS. Currently, as the Captain of the Varsity Baseball team, Edward has led his team to another League Championship and a first-round CIF victory. His academic excellence has also been recognized with the Principal’s Honor Roll and the title of Scholar Athlete.
Looking ahead, Edward plans to attend college, with a strong interest in playing baseball and majoring in Aviation to pursue a career as a pilot. Among the eight universities that have accepted him, California Baptist University is his top choice.
Edward attributes his motivation to playing with elite players on the Prime Travel Ball team, which pushed him to improve his skills and academic performance to meet college-level standards.
His hobbies include cars, fighter jets, weightlifting, and building intricate Lego sets.
Sharing his favorite quote from Tommy Lasorda, "The difference between the impossible and possible lies in a man’s determination," Edward emphasizes the value of hard work and determination. He advises young readers to find their passion and persistently work towards it, noting that effort and dedication often surpass natural talent.
Edward De Leon’s recognition as Athlete of the Week & featured in the GT City Newspaper is well-deserved to add to his list of accolades. His journey of early mornings and late nights filled with workouts and homework reflects his relentless pursuit of excellence.
As he embarks on his future endeavors, I would like to wisht this Titan continued success, believing that the best is yet to come.