This month’s Athlete of the Month goes to South El Monte’s very own baseball star, Anthony Mata. Chosen by varsity coach Mr. Gonzales, Anthony has shown true dedication, talent, and heart for the sport of baseball.
Anthony didn’t always think he would play baseball. “I used to play soccer when I was younger,” Anthony said. “But I asked my parents if I could try one year of baseball, and ever since I fell in love with the sport.” That one year turned into a passion, and now he’s one of the top players on the varsity team.
For Anthony, being chosen as Athlete of the Month is a big deal. “Honestly it feels great,” he said. “All the hard work I put into baseball, especially as a freshman, it feels great and I’m just thankful for this opportunity.”
Anthony, puts in serious time and energy into getting better every day. “I think I’m successful because I put in the work—all the sweat, blood and tears. I train every day and just grind it out,” he explained. That level of dedication is what separates him from other athletes his age.
Even with challenges, Anthony never gives up. One major setback was when he tore a ligament in his shoulder rotator cuff. Injuries like that can be tough, but he didn’t let it stop him. Instead, he kept pushing forward.
Anthony says the most important traits for a successful athlete are “hard work, being dedicated to the sport, having an open mind and having fun.” These traits show in the way he plays and leads on and off the field.
One of his favorite moments this season came during a game against Artesia High School. “My favorite moment was my first career triple,” he said with pride. “I will never forget it.”
Outside of baseball, Anthony enjoys working out and playing video games to relax. But his biggest inspiration isn’t a pro athlete—it’s his mom. “My mom is my hero. She helps me through everything when I’m stuck. I could always go to her for help,” he said. “She’s done so much for me and I’ll always love her.”
That being said, Anthony does look up to professional baseball player Jarren Duran. “He was dealing with bad mental health and almost ended his life,” Anthony shared. “But he survived and came back to be an All-Star MVP. That’s inspiring.”
Looking ahead, Anthony has big goals. “My plan is to be the greatest of all time,” he said. “I would love to play for UCLA or LSU. Those are my dream schools, but any D1 college would be fine. I just want to play college ball.”
Anthony lives by a quote that keeps him motivated: “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.” He believes that with enough effort, anything is possible.
With his determination, passion, and positive mindset, Anthony Mata is showing everyone what it takes to succeed. And for South El Monte High School, it’s exciting to watch him chase his dreams—one throw and hit at a time.
