5 Super Athletes With Ties To Palm Springs

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Palm Springs 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. Timothy Bradley Jr. (Boxing)

Timothy Bradley Jr., born in Palm Springs in 1983, is a former professional boxer who held multiple world championships in two weight classes. Bradley is best known for his victories over Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Márquez. His dedication and success in the ring have made him a prominent figure in the boxing world.

2. Susie Maxwell Berning (Golf)

Susie Maxwell Berning, who passed away in October 2024, was a distinguished golfer with a remarkable career. She secured three U.S. Women's Open titles in 1968, 1972 and 1973, and was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2021. Her legacy in women's golf is celebrated for her pioneering spirit and significant contributions to the sport.

3. Todd Clever (Rugby)

Todd Clever, born in Palm Springs in 1983, is a former professional rugby player. Todd Clever emerged as a standout player early on, excelling with the USA Junior Eagles and the University of Nevada Wolfpack, where he earned Collegiate All-American honors. Over his 15-year career with the Eagles, he captained the team and played in three Rugby World Cups, earning the nickname "Captain America." Beyond the field, Clever has supported the sport through roles on the USA Rugby Board, as a director for Memphis Inner City Rugby and by founding the Todd Clever Foundation to aid rugby players and teams globally.

4. Cindy Zepeda (Jiu Jitsu)

Cindy Zepeda is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner from Palm Springs. After being named Desert Sun's Female Athlete of the Year in 2019, she went on to showcase her talent at both Menlo College and Colorado Mesa University. A former WCWC All-American and two-time CIF Champion, Zepeda’s career highlights include multiple podium finishes and a standout record.

5. Karina Romero (Softball)

Karina Romero, a Palm Springs High School graduate, played softball for the University of California, Riverside. She was named to the Big West Academic All-Conference Team in 2014 and made significant contributions to the team during her collegiate career. Romero considers her parents to be her greatest sporting influence.

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