5 Super Athletes With Ties To Elk Grove

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Elk Grove area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Lamar Jackson (Football)

Lamar Jackson is a cornerback who most recently signed with the Atlanta Falcons after a successful stint with the Denver Broncos. Originally from Elk Grove, Jackson attended Elk Grove High School, where he was a standout player in both football and track. His natural athleticism and versatility on the field quickly drew attention, and he later played college football at the University of Nebraska. Jackson's NFL career has been marked by his impact as a shutdown corner, and his work ethic and drive are a point of pride for his hometown.

2. Stephanie Cox (Soccer)

Stephanie Lopez Cox, who grew up in Elk Grove, is a celebrated figure in women's soccer. As a member of the U.S. Women's National Team, Cox helped secure a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Today, she is also remembered for her leadership in youth soccer development, helping to inspire future generations of female athletes from her hometown.

3. Kyle Larson (Racing)

Kyle Larson made a name for himself in the world of NASCAR as one of the sport’s brightest talents. After years of racing in various series, Larson clinched the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Championship, solidifying his place among the sport's elite drivers. His success is rooted in his early years growing up in Elk Grove, where his passion for racing was ignited. Larson’s journey from dirt track racing to NASCAR has made him a local hero, and his achievements continue to inspire future drivers in and around Elk Grove.

4. Ruthie Bolton (Basketball)

Ruthie Bolton, a former Elk Grove resident, is a former WNBA player who became one of the sport's most iconic figures. Known for her resilience and toughness, Bolton played for the Sacramento Monarchs, where she won two WNBA championships and earned All-Star honors. She also represented the U.S. Women’s National Basketball Team, winning Olympic gold medals in 1996 and 2000. Her success on the court continues to serve as an inspiration to aspiring female basketball players.

5. Dom Núñez (Baseball)

Dom Núñez, an Elk Grove native, has worked his way up to the MLB as a player for the Colorado Rockies. As an athlete at Elk Grove High School, Núñez developed an affinity for the catcher position. His commitment to improving his craft took him through the minor leagues before his MLB debut. Núñez’s story is one of perseverance and dedication, and his rise to the big leagues has made him a role model for young athletes in Elk Grove, showing that with hard work, dreams of playing professionally are within reach.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.