2025 Youth of the Year Celebration
The Youth of the Year Celebration is the highest youth recognition event of the year. This event recognized 13 outstanding youth for their efforts throughout the year, their personal growth, and the leadership they have shown within their age groups. They have shown excellence in the areas of academic success, character development and practicing healthy lifestyles. Out of 1,900 youth these 13 club kids from Main Site, Bella Mente, and Athletics really excelled this past year.
This year’s Youth of the Year Celebration was made possible by the generous support of our community partners and elected leaders. Thank you to Panda Express and Northgate Market for providing dinner for all our youth, staff and guests. Also, Handel’s Vista for providing the fun addition of the ice cream cart with all the fun flavors. Shout out to our elected leaders who showed up and went above and beyond to provide certificates of recognition. City of Vista Mayor John Franklin, Kristal Jabara with County Supervisor Jim Desmond’s Office, City of Vista Councilmember Dan O’Donnell, Vista Unified School District Superintendent, Dr, Matt Doyle, Vista Unified School Board Member Martha Alvardo, Breeze Hill Principal David Reese, and Belle Mente Community Outreach Director, Anthony Beaver.
California Avenue Youth of the Year Winners
Kindergarten Youth of the Year: Van Huseman
As a kindergartener, Van H was full of curiosity and always ready to lend a helping hand to his classmates. He had an infectious smile that made him a joy to be around and a natural leader among his peers. Van loved participating in activities, especially those that allowed him to create and explore.
First Grade Youth of the Year: Isla Vonder Reith
Isla is a bright and kind-hearted first grader who loves being part of the Boys and Girls Club of Vista. She is known for her big smile and how she always helps her friends and classmates. Isla’s creativity shines in art projects, and she is always excited to learn something new. Her positive attitude and caring nature make her a wonderful role model for others.
Second Grade Youth of the Year: Noemi Cenzi
Noemi, a bright and caring second grader, has shown incredible kindness and leadership at the Boys and Girls Club of Vista. Her enthusiasm for learning and helping others makes her an inspiration to her peers and teachers. Whether she’s encouraging friends or working hard on school projects, Noemi always puts her best foot forward. Her positive attitude and dedication truly embody the spirit of our Youth of the Year.
Third Grade Youth of the Year: Mackenzie Mattlin
Mackenzie, a bright and energetic second grader, has been named Youth of the Year at the Boys and Girls Club of Vista. Known for her kindness and positive attitude, she is always eager to lend a helping hand to her peers and participate in club activities. Mackenzie's love for learning shines through in her enthusiasm for reading and exploring new ideas. Her vibrant spirit and dedication to making the club a better place inspire everyone around her.
Fourth Grade Youth of the Year: Brooklyn King
Brooklyn, a remarkable 4th grader at the Boys and Girls Club of Vista, has been named Youth of the Year for his outstanding leadership and positivity. He is known for her bright smile, helpful nature, and ability to make everyone feel included. Brooklyn excels in his schoolwork and enjoys participating in art projects, Science, and team activities at the Club. His dedication to kindness and her willingness to support others make her an inspiring role model for her peers.
Fifth Grade Youth of the Year: Colin Beld
Colin, a dedicated 5th grader, has shown exceptional leadership and commitment as a member of the Boys and Girls Club of Vista. He is always eager to help others and takes initiative in group activities, making everyone feel included. His positive attitude and determination make him a role model for his peers, and he consistently strives to do his best in all aspects of his life. Colin's passion for learning and growing inspires others, and he is truly deserving of recognition as Youth of the Year
Teen Youth of the Year: Mona Lisa Tuua
Mona Lisa is an energetic and bubbly middle schooler who brings positivity wherever she goes. She loves to sing and dance, using her passion to motivate and inspire her peers at the Boys and Girls Club of Vista. Her infectious enthusiasm and uplifting spirit make her a natural leader and role model.
Junior Youth of the Year: Nico Nash
Nico is a remarkable teen who demonstrates leadership, dedication, and a passion for helping others. His contributions to the Boys and Girls Club of Vista have made a lasting impact on both his peers and staff members. Nico is known for inspiring those around him with his hard work and positive attitude, setting a strong example for younger members. As Teen Youth of the Year, Nico embodies the qualities of resilience, compassion, and determination that the club fosters in its youth.
Bella Mente Youth of the Year Winners
Primary Youth of the Year: Camila Gutierrez
Camila is always willing to help others, whether it is with a group activity or during clean up time. She is great at following directions, and always has a great attitude and a smile on her face. She is very artistic and creative. Her energy and kindness brighten our program every day!
Elementary Youth of the Year: Bailee Sookchit
Bailee has such a big heart and loves to have fun. She makes friends with everyone and genuinely cares about all those around her- everyone always wants to sit at her table or be on her team! She is a leader and always takes the course of action that creates a safe and positive environment around her. She loves to be helpful to staff members and is always kind, honest, and humble. Her favorite activities are arts and crafts and sports. She attends our AM/PM program everyday at Belle Mente and also comes to camps at our Main Clubhouse. She is a joy to have in our program.
Middle Youth of the Year: Tobias Muniz
Tobias has impressed us all with his respectful attitude and leadership abilities. He often creates and facilitates fun games with the younger kids, making sure that everyone involved has a fun and safe time. He goes above and beyond to be helpful to everyone, to treat everyone kindly, and make sure everyone is happy. He sets a great example for all of the kids in the program.
Athletics Youth of the Year Winners
Boys Basketball Youth of the Year: Ruben Zavala
Meet Ruben Zavala, a powerhouse on the court and a true leader off it. With unmatched dedication and an unyielding competitive spirit. Ruben's commitment to his teammates and the community shines through in every game, making him a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere. As he takes home the title of Male Athlete of the Year, we celebrate not just his achievements, but the heart and passion he brings to the game. Congratulations, Ruben! Your journey is just beginning.
Girls Volleyball Youth of the Year: Angelina Sweeney
Meet Angelina Sweeney, a powerhouse of talent, determination, and resilience, who has redefined excellence in sports. As this year's Female Athlete of the Year, Angelina’s remarkable journey is marked by countless records, inspiring victories, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. From dominating the track to setting new benchmarks in her discipline, she exemplifies what it means to be a champion. Off the field, Angelina is a role model, using her platform to empower young athletes and advocate for equality in sports. Join us in celebrating her exceptional achievements and the indelible mark she continues to make in the world of athletics!
Kindergarten Youth of the Year: Van Huseman
First Grade Youth of the Year: Isla Vonder Reith
Second Grade Youth of the Year: Noemi Cenzi
Fourth Grade Youth of the Year: Brooklyn King
Teen Youth of the Year: Mona Lisa Tuua
Primary Youth of the Year: Camila Gutierrez
Middle Youth of the Year: Tobias Muniz
Boys Basketball Youth of the Year: Ruben Zavala
Third Grade Youth of the Year: Mackenzie Mattlin
Fifth Grade Youth of the Year: Colin Beld
Junior Youth of the Year: Nico Nash
Elementary Youth of the Year: Bailee Sookchit
Girls Volleyball Youth of the Year: Angelina Sweeney
Developing our future leaders would not be possible without dedicated staff and mentors. As a part our Youth of the Year Celebration, BGCV Executive Leadership and Board of Directors would like to take a moment to thank all of our incredible staff members for their tireless efforts in building the next generation of leaders. Special recognition goes to Emma Delcamp, Staff of the Year, Amy Armstrong, Coach the Year, Emma Delcamp, 5 years of service, and Diana Ortiz and Jose Romero for 15+ Years of Service.
Coach of the Year: Amy Armstrong
Celebrated for her unwavering dedication and innovative coaching methods, Amy Armstrong has been named Coach of the Year for her remarkable impact on her team and the community. With a passion for developing not just athletes but also well-rounded individuals, Amy combines expert strategy with heartfelt mentorship. Under her leadership, her team has achieved unprecedented success, breaking records and fostering a culture of resilience and teamwork. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond the field, inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams and strive for greatness. Join us in celebrating Amy's extraordinary journey and the transformative influence she has on everyone around her!
Staff of the Year: Emma Delcamp
Emma has been a key leader in so many areas this year particularly with the Bella Mente program, where she’s shown outstanding leadership and dedication. She’s also played a crucial role in preparing for Summer Camp, ensuring everything runs smoothly and is organized, and has seamlessly helped step in and manage front desk operations, adapting to whatever challenges come her way.
Emma, your hard work, positive attitude, and ability to make everything look effortless have made a huge impact on our team. On behalf of all of us, thank you for everything you do. Congratulations on being named Staff of the Year!
Longevity Awards:
5 years - Emma Delcamp
15+ years - Diana Ortiz
15+ years - Jose Romero
Staff of the Year and 5 Years of Service- Emma Delcamp
15+ Years of Service- Diana Ortiz
Coach of the Year: Amy Armstrong
15+ Years of Service- Jose Romero
