LA VERNE, Calif., June 4, 2017 — Born in Glendora and raised in La Verne, Sam Yagoda, is about to take on an adventure of a lifetime with his congressional nomination by Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano and his recent acceptance to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.
Sam, a lifelong resident of La Verne, attended the Fairplex Child Development Center, La Verne Heights Elementary and Ramona Middle School. Having to make a very difficult decision after middle school, he decided to expand his wings and attended Claremont High School where he played basketball for all four years and completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. The IB Diploma Program is offered to juniors and seniors who wish to pursue a comprehensive educational program to prepare them for college.
Sam found this diploma program to be an outstanding opportunity that opened many doors for his future. During all four years, Sam maintained a perfect grade point average and was recently recognized by the CIF for being among the top 1 percent of basketball athletes in academics.
While growing up, Sam also played soccer for many years with Region 112 AYSO San Dimas-La Verne League and played youth basketball for the City of La Verne and Claremont recreational City leagues. He also participated in many travel basketball teams, such as the La Verne Stars and Prodigy just to name a few.
Sam attributes his many successes to his parents, family, outstanding and very loyal educators, coaches, administrators, and many of his lifelong friends.
“I’m extremely grateful to Congresswoman Napolitano for my nomination,” Sam said, “and I look forward to the challenges of the academy and serving our great country.”