Claremont High School senior Sam Yagoda received a congressional nomination from Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano relating to his recent acceptance to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.  

Sam, a lifelong resident of La Verne, attended the Fairplex Child Development Center, La Verne Heights Elementary and Ramona Middle School before enrolling at Claremont High, where he played basketball for four years and completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program.

During all four years, Sam maintained a perfect grade point average and was recently recognized by the CIF for being among the top one percent of basketball athletes in academics.   

Sam also played soccer for many years with AYSO Claremont and San Dimas-La Verne League and played youth basketball for both La Verne and Claremont recreational city leagues. He also participated in many travel basketball teams, including the La Verne Stars and Prodigy.

Sam, who is the son of Pat Bell and Mario Yagoda, attributes his success to his parents, family, outstanding and educators, coaches, administrators and friends.

“I’m extremely grateful to Congresswoman Napolitano for my nomination,” Sam said. “I look forward to the challenges of the academy and serving our great country.”