BAKERSFIELD, CA - Every year, the Western State Conference recognizes the outstanding achievements of student-athletes by awarding the title of "Athlete of the Year" to those who have excelled in their respective team sports. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon the top performers, showcasing their athleticism, dedication, and commitment to their sport and their team.

The Western State Conference has exceptional talent, and this year, Bakersfield College had two "Athletes of the Year" but also had top athletes who received "Libero of the Year," "Co-Offensive Player of the Year," "Defense Player of the Year," and "Goalkeeper of the Year." These student-athletes have honed their skills, endured countless hours of training, and demonstrated their commitment to their sport. All athletes listed below were a part of a Western State Conference Championship Team. 

Athletes of the Year

Aubree Dees, a sophomore setter on this year's 2023 WSC Volleyball Co-Conference Champions, helped lead her team to a second-round playoff spot. The sophomore from Tehachapi ended the season with nine triple-doubles, 192 kills, 336 assists and 276 digs. She was second in the conference, hitting a percentage of .296 and 12th for most kills. 

Nathanael Rodriguez is also a sophomore who rose to be the top runner for the men's cross-country team this season. Nate was successfully the top runner for the Renegades in seven races, helping his team take three first-place finishes as a team. He won the Individual title as the Western State Conference Championship, placed 7th at the SoCal Regional Championship and finished 38th at 3C2A State Championship. 

Other Players of the Year

Volleyball Libero Player of the Year: Kya Jones finished the season as the WSC top player with 470 digs and 5.73 a set. 

Men's Soccer Co-Offensive Player of the Year: Jordee Magana finished the season third in the conference with a total of 17 goals, third with 61 shots and 4th with 38 points. 

Men's Soccer Defensive Player of the Year: Elijah Espinoza

Men's Soccer Goalkeeper of the Year: Cesar Navaro finished the season with a total of 58 saves, 22 in conference play, and four wins and zero losses in conference.