Santa Barbara, Calif. – The Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table gathered at Harry’s restaurant on Thursday to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of three local high school athletes. The luncheon, part of the organization’s annual effort to spotlight youth excellence, presented awards for Boys Athlete of the Week, Girls Athlete of the Week, and Scholar‑Athlete of the Year.
Brandon Lee shines in water polo
San Marcos High School sophomore Brandon Lee earned the Boys Athlete of the Week honor after delivering a combined ten goals in two pivotal victories over Buena High School. Lee’s performance helped the Royals secure second place in the Channel League and an automatic berth in the CIF‑Southern Section Division 1 playoffs. The Royals will open the first round of the postseason against Westlake on Friday at 5 p.m.
Faith Harrison leads DP volleyball to the quarterfinals
Junior middle blocker Faith Harrison of Dos Pueblos High School was named Girls Athlete of the Week. Harrison recorded 28 kills and six blocks across two playoff wins, propelling the Chargers into the CIF‑Southern Section Division 6 quarterfinals. The Chargers are scheduled to compete at Villa Park on Tuesday at 6 p.m.
Asha Nayak exemplifies scholar‑athlete excellence
Senior basketball player Asha Nayak received the Scholar‑Athlete of the Year award. Maintaining a 4.9 GPA, Nayak is already earning college credit for several of her courses and serves as a leader and ambassador for the Dos Pueblos Engineering Academy. She plans to attend an Ivy League university next year, continuing her commitment to both academics and athletics.
Community impact
The awards underscore the importance of supporting student‑athletes who balance rigorous sports schedules with demanding academic goals. Parents, coaches, and community members praised the round‑table’s dedication to recognizing hard work, character, and leadership. “These young people embody the values we cherish in our community—faith, family, and personal responsibility,” said a representative of the Athletic Round Table.
Local businesses and alumni also contributed to the luncheon, reinforcing the partnership between Santa Barbara’s educational institutions and the broader community. The event serves as a reminder that strong neighborhoods are built when families, schools, and civic organizations work together to nurture the next generation.
Looking ahead
As the postseason unfolds, fans can expect to see Lee, Harrison, and Nayak continue to represent Santa Barbara with distinction. Upcoming games include the Royals’ playoff clash with Westlake and the Chargers’ quarterfinal matchup at Villa Park. Supporters are encouraged to attend and cheer on these talented athletes, whose dedication reflects the spirit of Santa Barbara’s thriving high‑school sports culture.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
