Many Rancho Cucamonga High school seniors are now focusing on the next chapter in their lives, college! We will be highlighting RCHS softball team senior Elicia Acosta. 

Acosta is officially committed to the University of California, Santa Barbara, as a member of the campus’s softball team playing the position of catcher. 

Rancho senior athletes have seen first-hand the impacts of COVID-19 during recruiting season. Acosta shared her struggles stating it “is kind of tough just because there are so many rules about coaches coming out to see you play.” 

After visiting many college campuses, finding the right one is imperative when searching for the right college for you. 

“Location was something super important to me and being close to home so that my family could come to watch me play was a key thing. Going to school right on the beach and staying in California along with great academics and playing for a division one program was a done deal for me,” said Acosta when discussing some of the things that were on her checklist when it came to her decision.

While participating in the team at UCSB, Acosta also plans to focus greatly on her academics. Acosta’s plans include majoring in biology in hopes of getting into medical school and becoming a doctor. 

The RCHS senior’s drive and aspirations are an inspiration for many younger athletes starting the process of commitment. Acosta’s message to the underclassmen is, “be open-minded, work hard both in the classroom and on the field, and to not get discouraged because there’s a school for everyone!”

Acosta overcame the struggles of the pandemic through her love for her sport. How it all started for star athlete Elicia Acosta was her first memory of playing softball. “Playing wreck ball at Red Hill Park and spending my summers all day on the field for tournaments for All-Stars and having the time of my life,” said Acosta. 

The sky is the limit with RCHS senior Elicia Acosta; she is an all-around star that will continue to shine in the future. Go Cougars!