5 Super Athletes With Ties To Half Moon Bay

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Half Moon Bay 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. Charlee Minkin (Judo)

Charlee Minkin, a graduate of Half Moon Bay High School, made a name for herself as a judoka. She has taken part in national and international judo competitions, earning three national, five continental titles and a Pan-Am victory. Though her Olympic career was brief, her contributions to the sport of judo remain a point of local pride.

2. Al Pereira (Professional Wrestling)

Al "Power House" Pereira was a professional wrestler from Half Moon Bay. He has been recognized for his achievements in the wrestling arena, including holding the European Heavyweight Championship twice. Following Pereira's passing in 1990, his memory and legacy live on in Half Moon Bay.

3. Riley Donovan (Softball)

Riley Donovan is a distinguished softball player who has made significant contributions to the sport. She attended Half Moon Bay High School, where she honed her skills before advancing to collegiate athletics. Donovan played for Southern Oregon University, earning accolades such as the NAIA Player of the Year and the Cascade Conference Player of the Year.

4. Morgan Day (Soccer)

Morgan Day is a soccer player who has represented Half Moon Bay in her athletic career. After graduating from Half Moon Bay High School, she played for the Academy of Art University, starting in all 13 matches she appeared in during the 2023 season. In that same season, she scored her first career goal as a member of the Urban Knights, contributing to the team's success.

5. Adam Piccolotti (Mixed Martial Arts)

Adam Piccolotti is a professional mixed martial artist from Half Moon Bay. He made a name for himself in the lightweight division of the Bellator MMA organization, recognized for his grappling skills. He later went on to sign a contract with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), where he continues to showcase his talents.

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