MACIAS CAPTAINS TEAM TO L.A. CITY CROWN

By Patrick Lujan

A couple of Guam boys have dawned our flag over the weekend, on their way to stateside championships.

Jaiden Macias helped the Carson Colts win their first ever LA City Section Division 1 championship at Dodger Stadium. The other was Ethan Lizama leading Western Kentucky to the C-USA conference title on the college level.

Born in Carson, CA. to Reilani San Nicolas and Jesus Macias (Mexican), Macias started playing baseball since he was 2-years-old.

A life long commitment to the game resulted in a city championship at the historic Dodger Stadium for the captain of the team.

“The game meant a lot to us, it showcased our hard work and even though we struggled early we stayed together as a family, worked hard, and pushed one another,” Macias said. “A lot of people doubted us due to our 1-9 start and the fact we lost 19 seniors from last year. So we wanted to show that we can win the big one and we did, we made history being the first Carson baseball team to bring a championship to the city.”

With a good mix of speed and power, Macias helped the squad overcome the slow start to the season and win the championship against all odds.

After the big win, Jaiden proudly dawned the Guam flag around his shoulders throughout the postgame festivities.

“It means a lot to me (to wear the flag), not a lot of people know about Guam. I want Guam to get the recognition it deserves. So to be able to wave our flag around at Dodger Stadium after winning meant the world to me. I want to show that our people are hardworking and capable of anything.”

Guam Family Connection

Jaiden’s mom Reilani is from Hagatna and his grandparents are Esther (from Agana) and John (from Barrigada) Cabaccang.

It was even more emotional for Jaiden since his great grandfather Abraham Toves Cabaccang just passed away on January 29th. The elder Cabaccang was from Ordot and served in the Vietnam War where he received a Purple Heart Award.

After high school, Macias plans to walk on at Long Beach State.

“None of this would be possible without my coaches and my family, especially my mom and dad.”