Meet Your Winter Sports Captains

By: Andre Sugden

November 30, 2025

The winter season is heating up in El Segundo. But first, a congratulations to all the Eagles that were a part of a very successful fall season! Boys Waterpolo and boys football both made the playoffs this ye

ar, and the Waterpolo team made a valiant run into the semifinals. To all the fans and supporters, we thank you immensely, and invite you to continue your support into the winter season!

As we step into a new Eagles athletics season, it is important to get to know the players that will lead the charge. I asked one captain from each winter sports program to answer some questions about their sport, and the importance of being a team captain at El Segundo. 

     Cole Shoepe is a senior on the boys basketball team, and has been on varsity since Sophomore year. When asked why being a captain is so important to him he said, “I remember being a sophomore on varsity and how the seniors showed me constant support and guidance. I want to be the kind of leader I once had. I also hope to help build a culture of respect that can carry on for years.” Cole is joined by a strong supporting cast of new and returning players, and hopes to make a run at the CIF title. His most memorable moment in his Eagles basketball career was, “going to the CIF finals…being able to play on such a big stage with some of the best teammates is something I’ll never forget.” Come cheer on boys basketball as they make a stab at a second title charge in three years!

Back on the court, girls basketball captain, senior Myleah Cooley is equally excited for a bright season ahead. She says being a captain is important to her because, “...it's an opportunity to lead by example, and be like a big sister to my teammates.” She gives credit to her coach, Terrence Wilson, better known as “Sippy” for guiding the team through every season. “Everyone loves Sippy, his personality and commitment push us to be our best both on and off the court.” Myleah hopes to lead the girls basketball team to a winning season, and ushers in the support of students and parents. “We play our hearts out every game, and knowing you're cheering us is one of the most rewarding experiences.”

     At Hazeltine field, senior Max Abroms is keen to lead the boys soccer team to another deep CIF run. Last season, the Eagles made the division 1 CIF semifinals and the division 2 regionals. The Eagles defeated local rivals Mira Costa and Redondo in the process, with their CIF victory over the Sea Hawks being Max’s favorite memory as a soccer player at El Segundo. Max is joined by a squad made up of 9 returning starters from last year’s campaign. With this load of returning talent, Max and the soccer team are poised to churn out yet another successful season on the pitch. 

     Josie Topar is a senior on the girls soccer team, and says she is ready to be the player that “new and returning players can rely on.” As the girls soccer team welcomes a new season, Josie states her excitement for the new campaign. She says that her greatest memory so far in the girls soccer program has been, “this past preseason and really getting to know all of the girls this year.” The camaraderie within the team is an important part of the teams’ success this year, Josie says. She leads a squad that is motivated to make a deep run in the 2025-26 season. 

     At the El Segundo aquatics center, senior Natasha Zhang leads the girls water polo team. To Natasha, the best part about being a captain is, “being able to work with the most motivated and hardworking group of girls I’ve met.” She joined as a sophomore and has made a world of progress in her short career. As a captain, Natasha hopes to continue the success of Eagles water polo as they start their season this week. To all supporters, she says, “Water polo is super intense and a fun sport to watch, so come support us at our home games!” 

     Come out and support your Eagles as they take on a new season of challenges and triumphs!