The Student News Site of Bonita Vista High

the Crusader
The Student News Site of Bonita Vista High

the Crusader
The Student News Site of Bonita Vista High

the Crusader
Isaiah Benitez

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor

I am a senior at Bonita Vista High (BVH) and a Sports Editor for the Crusader. I joined staff in the second semester of last year on a whim and became a Staff Writer. I joined newspaper to further expand my writing skills, build school-wide connections through interviews and apply my amateur knowledge of art to creating graphics for the publication. As I continued my journey into the journalistic world, I discovered my passion for sportswriting, which motivated me to apply for the Sports Editor position this year. Aside from the Crusader, I am also a member of BVH’s varsity co-ed wrestling team, as well as the Secretary for BVH’s Artisan Club. 

Follow me on Instagram: @isaiah_crusader_bvh

All content by Isaiah Benitez
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[Photo] Class of 2024 chooses their path of life

the Crusader
May 28, 2024
BVH football player and junior Guillermo Smith poses with his rugby ball while sporting his club jersey. Smith’s passion for rugby has fueled his commitment to the generally unpopular sport.

[Photo] Tackling into rugby season

Isabella Garcia, Editor-at-Large
April 26, 2024
On April 24, BVH pitcher and junior Danica Aboytes (1) hurls the ball at her Mater Dei Catholic (MDC) opponent. Aboytes’ pitching would go on to help her team in their fight against MDC.

[Photo] Lady Barons toppled by Crusaders

Antoinette Gilbert, Opinion Editor
May 17, 2024
BVH US Government, Advanced Placement African American Studies and Ethnic Studies teacher Don Dumas teaches his fourth period Ethnic Studies class about the words of Mark Twain. Dumas' commitment to educating his students on the parameters if social justice has garnered him the respect of many.

[Photo] “The hardest part”

Isabella Garcia, Editor-at-Large
May 10, 2024
BVH celebrates their long awaited senior victory against MVH. Earlier in the season, the Lady Barons fell to the Mariners 10-9, which made their present victory all the more satisfying.

[Photo] Photo gallery: Lady Barons bash Mariners 18-3 on senior night

Isaiah Nafarrete, Features Editor
May 6, 2024
On April 25, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) varsity boys' volleyball team took down the Mar Vista High (MVH) Mariners. Deep into the fourth set, BVH opposite hitter, outside hitter and senior Daniel Robitaille (22) serves the ball to kick off the rally.

Barons dig Mariners’ grave 3-1

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
April 26, 2024
Editorial Cartoon

Editorial Cartoon

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
April 26, 2024
On Mar. 7, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) track and field team had their first meet of the season against Montgomery High School (MHS). BVH boy's high jumper and junior Dakarrai Roberson goes up for his last attempt of the meet.

Friday nights and spotlights

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
April 12, 2024
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[Photo] Beyond the cafeteria

Paula Pichay, Opinion Editor
April 2, 2024
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[Photo] Yes/No: Is boycotting an effective form of protest?

Kendall Johnson and Isaiah Nafarrete
March 13, 2024
On Feb. 26 at BVH's stadium, BVH boys' varsity lacrosse competes against Monte Vista High School (MVHS). Midfielder and senior David Lankard (8) runs to save the ball before it goes out of bounds.

Barons overthrow the monarchs

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
March 7, 2024
On Feb. 21, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) Barons faced the Santa Fe Christian (SFC) Eagles in a 2-1 home victory. BVH co-Captain, outside hitter and senior Daniel Robitaille (22) loads his shot against his opponents.

[Photo] Killing it from the beginning

Isabella Garcia, Editor-at-Large
March 1, 2024
Bonita Vista High middle blocker and junior Luke Janssen (13) goes in to spike against his Santa Fe Christian (SFC) opponents. The rest of the BVH boys' varsity volleyball team watch in awe as the junior goes in for the kill.

[Photo] Barons slam the Eagles

Aparri Tarpley, Sports Editor
February 25, 2024
On Feb. 23, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) Barons boys' varsity volleyball team faced the Canyon Hills High (CHH) Rattlers in a tournament matchup. Midway through the first set, BVH spikes the ball in the hopes of scoring another point against CHH.

Photo gallery: Barons shake the Rattlers in a 2-0 set victory

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
February 25, 2024
BVH seniors Aaliyah Victoria and Carlene Rico sell handmade baked goods including cookies, brownies and chocolate covered strawberries. They do this in order to be able to pay for their dance competition in Chicago.

Life sure is sweet!

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
February 20, 2024
Bonita Vista High (BVH) sophomore Adrian Andrade looks into his digital video tape camcorder in the hopes of recording the local scenery. Andrade is one of many BVH students who have followed the recent trend of buying or finding old cameras and using them to reignite a sense of nostalgia in the form of photos and videos.

[Photo] Coming back with a click

Delilah Bannister, Staff Writer
February 23, 2024
Barons Speak

Barons Speak

Paula Pichay and Isaiah Benitez
February 16, 2024
On Jan. 19, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) Barons boys’ varsity basketball team outplayed their league rivals the San Ysidro High (SYH) Cougars in a 70-51 victory. Early in the game, BVH power forward and Junior Aaron Owens (22) shoots a three pointer from far out to tie the score.

Photo of the month

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
February 10, 2024
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[Photo] A call for action

Antoinette Gilbert, Opinion Editor
February 8, 2024
On Jan. 29, Bonita Vista High (BVH) Car Culture Club co-president and senior Haydn Lopez gives a slideshow presentation about Car Culture Club at the club's first meeting during lunch at BVH autoshop. Lopez is informing the club's members of a potential club field trip to the San Diego Automotive Museum. This topic was among other informational slides about the Car Culture Club's plans for this year, such as participating in BVH's food fair to raise money.

Driving to revive a community

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
February 5, 2024
On Jan. 30 at Eleve Dance Studio, Bonita Vista High (BVH) senior Mia Garcia interacts with her young dance students. Garcia's experiences with her students have changed her perspective on life and dance as an art form.

[Photo] On Pointe!

Madison Knudson, Arts & Cultures Editor
February 2, 2024
On Jan. 19, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) Barons boys' varisty basketball team outplayed their league rivals, the San Ysidro High (SYH) Cougars in a 70-51 victory. Early in the game, BVH small forward and senior Torrean Smalley (11) maneuvers the ball past four defenders and makes a layup that increases the Barons' lead over the Cougars.

Photo gallery: Barons cage the Cougars on the court

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
January 22, 2024
Internet culture changes, human nature does not

Internet culture changes, human nature does not

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
January 19, 2024
On Nov. 18 at the Eastlake High School field, Otay Ranch High center-mid and senior Aaleen Fontanilla (left) steals the ball from her opponent. Fontanilla's team would go on to win the all-star game 2-0.

From competitors to collaborators

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
December 8, 2023
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[Photo] “It’s over for you”

Dani Fincher, Staff Artist
December 4, 2023
On Nov. 27, senior William Fowler enjoys a game of Fortnite from the comfort of his home. Similar to many others, Fowler has enjoyed Epic Games bringing OG Fortnite back to the game.

[Photo] A leap back in time

Isaiah Nafarrete, Features Editor
December 2, 2023
On Nov. 10 the Bonita Vista High (BVH) varsity football team confronted Westview High (WVH) in the quarterfinals of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). The Barons offensive line is what brought the offense together in the second half, almost having the comeback of the century.

BVH varsity football team wins first playoff game in years

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
November 24, 2023
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[Photo] Staff Editorial

the Crusader
November 13, 2023
Former staff member of the Crusader, Lexie Solomen shares their opinion on the publication's posting of their controversial issue two Editorial Cartoon. The cartoon in question dealt with the artist's negative opinion on Zionism, Solomen explaining the Crusader's right to freely post it.

[Photo] The consequences of free speech

Kendall Johnson and Valerie Torres
November 17, 2023
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[Photo] Five Nights at Freddy’s movie review

Cash Alexander, Sports Copy Editor
November 1, 2023
Four-days for the people

Four-days for the people

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
October 31, 2023
On Oct. 27, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) varsity football team contested Eastlake High (EHS) at home on the Barons senior night. BVH running back and senior Carlos Ochoa (21) runs the ball and powers through multiple EHS players as he tries to get his team a first down.

Bonita Vista remains bootless

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
October 30, 2023
Photo of the month

Photo of the month

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
October 28, 2023
On Oct. 27, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) varsity team's offensive line takes a stand against Eastlake High's defensive front. Throughout the season, the tough character of the BVH offensive line has been the key to success in the Barons road to the playoffs.

Blocking for the Barons

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
October 26, 2023
Untitled Artwork

[Photo] The need to sow seeds for a sustainable future

Antoinette Gilbert, Opinion Editor
September 23, 2023
On Oct. 18, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) girls’ varsity volleyball team dominated in the mid and late stages of their 3-1 victory over Olympian High School (OHS). In the first set of the game, which BVH would end up losing, outside hitter, defensive specialist and junior Anay’Ja Ayres (6) captures the attention of her teammates as she swiftly contorts her body while spiking the ball into OHS territory.

[Photo] Lady Barons serve a senior night victory

Aparri Tarpley, Sports Editor
October 20, 2023
Athletes Speak

Athletes Speak

Valerie Torres and Isaiah Benitez
October 14, 2023
BVH is bringing more established and experienced teachers into the district. BVH principal Lee Romero explains how "as a principal, one of my responsibilities is to prepare and train our Assistant Principals to become directors or principals. Several teachers on campus are seeking positions as Assistant Principals." While this is a positive change for many staff members who may be moving up the ranks or relocating for a brighter and better future, gaps are left in the wake of these staff members.

[Photo] Too many shoes to fill

Destiny Avila Ramirez, Madison Knudson, and Paula Pichay
October 8, 2023
On Sep.18, Bonita Vista High (BVH) varsity girls golf player and sophomore, Andrea Roman putts the golf ball into the hole, helping BVH in their match against Mater Dei High. Head varsity girls golf coach Tony Valdez focuses on the girls' "short game" in training, which helps Roman in this moment. Provided by Alexis Acosta

The lowest scores and the highest spirits

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
September 23, 2023
Grappling with the pain

Grappling with the pain

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
September 22, 2023
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[Photo] Bringing clubs back to life

Katie Hicks, Photographer
September 21, 2023
On Sep. 19, Bonita Vista High students without a sixth period exit campus through the office. In order to leave, students must present their class schedule to BVH staff.

[Photo] BVH students take on modified schedules

Cash Alexander and Isaiah Nafarrete
September 19, 2023
On Sept. 15, the Bonita Vista High (BVH) boys' Varsity Football team face off against Mar Vista High (MVH), a team that they lost against last season. Enraged with the results of last season's game, multiple BVH defenders are shown bringing down an MVH ball carrier.

The Barons bloody the waters

Isaiah Benitez, Sports Editor
September 17, 2023
At the Bonita Vista High (BVH) stadium on Aug. 17, the BVH varsity football team holds their first home game of the season against Castle Park High (CPH). As the sun sets, CPH attempts to score a touchdown in the the third quarter while BVH's defense holds the perimeter.

Barons back to the gridiron

Isaiah Benitez, Staff Writer
August 19, 2023
After a day at school, Bonita Vista High (BVH) students regularly hang out around Ralphs. BVH students are seen regularly entering and exiting the store despite the restrictions that Ralphs and BVH tried implementing on them.

[Photo] Keep out!

Isabella Garcia, Editor-at-Large
August 18, 2023
Bonita Vista High (BVH) Assistant Principal Jason Josafat completes final tasks during his remaining days at BVH. As of Aug. 4. Josafat will serve as principal to Bayfront Charter High.

[Photo] AP Resigns

Lauralai Gilbert, News Editor
August 10, 2023
The United States (U.S) Supreme Court put an end to affirmative action on Thursday, July 19. However, affirmative action is crucial for minorities to receive a fair application process.

[Photo] Reaffirm Affirmative Action

Grace Na, Editor-in-Chief
July 13, 2023
Editorial Cartoon

Editorial Cartoon

Isaiah Benitez
May 16, 2023
Growing up fast!

Growing up fast!

Eiffel Sunga, Isaiah Benitez, and Kendall Johnson
May 11, 2023
Senior and singles player for Bonita Vista High ( BVH) Matthew Garrido hits a groud stroke back to his opponents backhand. BVH beat Olympian High School (OHS) 13-5.

[Photo] A final swing of the racquet

Antoinette Gilbert, A&C Editor
May 6, 2023
The boys' varsity tennis team chants before officially starting the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) game taking place at San Marcos High. The team then disperses to the courts for the matches to begin at 3:30.

Booted but unbroken

Isaiah Benitez, Staff Writer
April 21, 2023
On Mar. 12, at the 95th Academy Awards (Oscars) the film Everything Everywhere All At Once received seven wins out of 11 nominations. Actress Michelle Yeoh and actor Ke Huy Quan are depicted here collecting their Oscars, respectively.

“A beacon of hope and possibilities”

Isaiah Benitez, Staff Writer
April 17, 2023
The greenhouse gasses that the Willow project can potentially release are bound to have detrimental effects on our climate and environment. The oil drilling project is easily one of the most environmentally detrimental in US history.

[Photo] Biden’s broken promise

Kendall Johnson, A&C Editor
April 7, 2023
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[Photo] A call for better representation

Amanda Cortes, Staff Writer
March 30, 2023
Bonita Vista High's (BVH) boys' varsity volleyball team huddles up before their game against Patrick Henry High (PHH) on Feb. 22. BVH finishes the game winning 3-1 sets against PHH.

[Photo] Setting the seasons first victory

Anissa Barajas, Opinion Copy Editor
April 2, 2023
Point guard and senior Alyssa Alvarado (2) pump fakes the ball to get around her defender and throws up a three-pointer. She successfully makes the shot in as her family and audience watch intensely from the stands.

An early victory

Isaiah Benitez, Staff Writter
March 25, 2023
The NFL is known for making a spectacular Superbowl show. What fans don't know is, during the halftime-shows some performers are not paid but do benefit in other ways.

[Photo] Fenty or frenzy

Amanda Cortes, Staff Writer
March 8, 2023
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[Photo] Slow down fast fashion

Jechaenna Velazco, Photographer
March 5, 2023
On Feb. 9, the Bonita Vista High Mock Trial team competed in their first round of competition for the 2022-2023 school year. Junior and defense attorney Eliza Noblejas (left) and junior and defense witness Alexander Roman (right) practice their direct examination lines in front of the San Diego Central Courthouse, as the defense team waits for all the team members to arrive.

A Future Reality Studying Legality

Isaiah Benitez, Staff writer
February 10, 2023
Bonita Vista High (BVH) now offers a new vegan option for students and is now available during lunch Monday-Wednesday. A student can be seen receiving the new vegan spaghetti.

New vegan option

Uriel Lopez and Isaiah Benitez
February 9, 2023
Sophomore Estevan Flores (12), dribbles upcourt against multiple MHS defenders. As Flores attempts to get into scoring position, sophomore Kenneth Jordan (23) covers for him.

Photo Gallery: Boys’ basketball faces a harsh defeat against MHS

Isaiah Benitez, Staff Writer
February 9, 2023
In the Bonita Vista High (BVH) gymnasium on Feb. 8, BVH boys' varsity basketball plays a home game against Montgomery High (MHS). The players get ready for the game by giving a pregame speech and breakout. The final score being 37-69, MHS with the win.

Jordan goes for the bucket as he makes it through the MHS defense. The floor is cleared out for him to make the layup.

From left to right junior Torrean Smalley (25), power forward, small forward and senior Michael Hansen (33), Jordan, shooting guard, small forward and senior Gavin Hormaechea (13) and point guard, shooting guard and sophomore Treyvon Davis (3) stretch and warm up in preparation for the game. They progressively get ready for tipoff.

BVH boys' varsity basketball head coach Don Dumas watches his players as they go up against MHS. The players sit on the sidelines watch their teammates play against MHS on the court as they try to get the ball.

BVH down by 23 points against MHS as a timeout is called with less than a minute left in the second quarter. BVH uses the timeout to reorganize and workout what to do at the end of the half.

During Lunar New year weekend 2023, a deadly mass shooting occurred in a dance studio in Monterey Park, California. The shooting has been suspected to be a hate crime due to Monterey park having a large Asian American population.

[Photo] Lunar New Years celebration ends in mourning

Valerie Torres, Opinion Editor
February 7, 2023
On Feb. 3 at the BVH gymnasium, Principle Lee Romero held an assembly to uplift school spirit by leading student chants.

[Photo] Four months into permanence

Maddie Almodovar, Co Editor-in-Chief
February 6, 2023
A new years resolution can range from working out to setting a new goal. Others consist of reaching a certain number of something to reach that goal, such as reading 55 books.

[Photo] 50 in 2022

Maddie Almodovar, Editor-in-Chief
February 4, 2023
Chemistry Honors, AP Chemistry, and IB Chemistry teacher Jeff Rivera teaching his fourth period AP/IB Chemistry classes. As a result of low student enrollment, there are no other periods with AP or IB Chemistry other than this one period.

[Photo] College level science courses de-mystified

Eiffel Sunga, Editor-in-Chief
February 3, 2023
Photo of the month

Photo of the month

Isaiah Benitez, Staff Writer
January 30, 2023
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