The 2026 winter athletic season in Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) highlighted the strength of our programs, with league championships, CIF success, and continued growth across all four comprehensive high schools. Student-athletes demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence in both competition and the classroom.

“Our winter season reflects the opportunities NMUSD provides for students to grow as athletes, leaders, and teammates,” said Deputy Superintendent, Secondary Education Kerrie Torres. “These experiences help prepare students for success well beyond high school.”

Here is a recap of this winter’s highlights at Costa Mesa High School:

• Girls Basketball captured the Orange Coast League Championship, finishing 20-8 overall and 8-0 in league play. The Mustangs advanced to the second round of CIF Division 5 playoffs. Leilani Quero was named League MVP, joined by first-team honorees Myah Martinez and Emi Kamikihara.
   
• Girls Soccer won the Empire League title with a 6-0-2 record and finished 12-3-5 overall. Emiley Davis was named League MVP and Gianna Matian earned Player of the Year honors, with multiple Mustangs earning first-team recognition.
   
• Girls Water Polo finished second in the Empire League and advanced to the CIF quarterfinals. Several student-athletes earned all-league honors, highlighting a strong and developing roster.
   
• Wrestling delivered strong results, including Masters qualifier Andres Ayala. Klaus Hinkle and Lauralynn Garcia each won league championships, and the Mustangs secured a second consecutive Battle of the Bell victory.
   
• Boys Soccer showed significant improvement, finishing second in league. Carlos Alcala was named Offensive Player of the Year, supported by multiple all-league selections.
   
• Boys Basketball focused on growth under first-year head coach Garrett Young. Senior Parker Hylton earned first-team all-league honors, and the team gained valuable experience, including competing at Intuit Dome.

The winter season across NMUSD reflects the district’s commitment to providing high-quality athletic programs that support student growth, achievement, and school pride. Through competition, leadership, and teamwork, NMUSD student-athletes continue to build skills that prepare them for success in the classroom and beyond.