Aptos Star Alexa Castaneda's Shocking D-I Commitment: What It Means for Fresno State and Her Future!

Aptos High School's soccer star, Alexa Castaneda, has made headlines with her recent commitment to Fresno State University, marking a new chapter in her athletic career. The two-time All-Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League Player of the Year and four-time first-team honoree announced her decision on social media, bringing excitement not just to her family but also to the local sports community.

Castaneda, a 5-foot-4 senior midfielder, had explored several options before settling on Fresno State. After visiting schools such as Long Island University, Hofstra University, and Queens College, she realized that the distance from home would likely lead to homesickness. Despite receiving offers from multiple Division II schools, the opportunity to play at a NCAA Division I program like the Bulldogs offered her a chance to stay closer to home while still pursuing her dreams.

During a one-day visit to Fresno State on March 20, Castaneda felt an immediate connection to the campus. Although the visit was shorter than the overnight stays often afforded to recruits, she was captivated by the environment. “I was sad to leave,” she remarked, reflecting on her experience.

Her day included meeting with Bulldogs assistant coach Amanda Valentine and even participating in a photo shoot while wearing the Bulldogs' uniform. Accompanied by her parents and older sister, Jazmine, who played soccer at Cal State University-Monterey Bay, Castaneda enjoyed a joyful moment that underscored her long-standing passion for the sport. “Oh my God, it was so exciting,” she recalled. “I felt happy. I just felt different.”

Castaneda’s soccer journey began at a young age; she started playing recreational soccer at just four years old, quickly transitioning to club soccer. Her mother, Gina Castaneda, an Aptos High Athletics Hall of Famer and head coach of the girls’ varsity team, noted that Alexa's dream was nurtured in their backyard. “As a little girl, while others were playing dress-up, Alexa grew up saying, ‘One day I’m going to play on the national team,’” Gina shared.

Despite her determination, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges that made Castaneda contemplate stepping away from the sport. However, Jazmine was a constant source of motivation, encouraging her sister to return to the field and reminding her of her love for soccer. “I credit my sister,” Castaneda said. “She always pushed me.”

After her Fresno State visit, Castaneda wanted to prove her worth to Bulldogs head coach Gabriel Bolton. Following a scouting effort, Bolton arranged for her to play with Newark FC against the formidable Lamorinda Soccer Club on March 21. His advice to her was clear: “I want you to be physical, aggressive, and the first one to the ball. If you’re not, you won’t be playing here.” Castaneda did her best to follow Bolton’s guidance, though Newark ultimately lost the match 8-0. When she checked her phone after being subbed out, her heart raced until she saw Bolton’s message: “Are you ready to be a Bulldog?”

Castaneda's impressive high school career includes a remarkable total of 43 goals and 38 assists, capped off by helping the Mariners clinch their first-ever Central Coast Section Division III crown this season. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many young athletes in her community and highlights the dedication and perseverance required to excel at a collegiate level.

As she prepares for this next chapter at Fresno State, Castaneda is not just looking forward to competing at the NCAA level; she’s thrilled about the opportunity to grow both academically and athletically in an environment that feels like home.