By: Joshua J Griñe - [email protected]
St. Pius X is set to celebrate one of the premier moments of the spring calendar, as the Sartans host their 2026 Signing Day inside St. Sebastian Gymnasium on Wednesday, April 29 at 1:50 p.m. The event will be highlighted by a full-school pep rally, recognizing a standout senior class that has elevated Sartan athletics across multiple sports.
Leading the group is Sophia Trujillo, who will continue her softball career at Luna Community College after earning all-district recognition and qualifying for state in powerlifting. In the pool, Danira Madrid is set to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy, where she plans to pursue a path into the United States Navy while competing as a swimmer. Teammate Audrey Phelps will also continue her swimming career at Whittier College, bringing with her state-level success and school record performances.
On the pitch, Mateo Certain takes his talents internationally, signing with Select Generation FC in Bournemouth, England after a decorated high school career that included multiple state championships and a District Player of the Year honor.
The Sartan volleyball program will be well represented, headlined by Maya Perea, one of the most decorated players in New Mexico, signing with Eastern New Mexico University following a career that included over 1,500 digs, multiple state championships, and a 4A Player of the Year honor. Beach volleyball standouts Mireya Sauceda Gonzalez, Aliyah Lucero, and Alyssa Bendinskas will continue their careers at Wingate University, Ottawa University, and Austin Peay State University, respectively.
On the diamond, Kaiden Swanson (NMMI), Nathaniel Miera (Arizona Christian), and Zoë Mangrum (Howard University) highlight a strong baseball and softball group, with Mangrum’s career numbers and accolades placing her among the elite hitters in program history.
The wrestling program continues its tradition of excellence with Valentine Popadiuc, a three-time state champion signing with Iowa State, and Dane Padilla, a state champion and multi-time finalist heading to Colorado State University-Pueblo.
Collectively, this class represents years of development, success, and commitment within the Sartan athletic program. Wednesday’s pep rally atmosphere will not only celebrate their next steps but also serve as a moment of pride for the entire St. Pius X community.