5 Super Athletes With Ties To Watsonville

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Watsonville 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. Ken Sears (Basketball)

Ken Sears, born in Watsonville, made history as the first basketball player to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 1954. He played as a forward in the NBA during the 1950s and 1960s, notably with the New York Knicks and the San Francisco Warriors. Sears was a two-time NBA All-Star, known for his scoring ability and shooting accuracy. His journey from Watsonville High School to professional basketball remains a significant part of the town's rich sports heritage.

2. Charlene Pryer (Baseball)

Charlene Pryer, also born in Watsonville, was a pioneering female baseball player who played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) during the 1940s. She was known for her speed and versatility on the field, playing both infield and outfield positions. Pryer's contributions to women's baseball have been recognized as a significant part of the sport's history, and her legacy continues to inspire female athletes from Watsonville and beyond.

3. Ty Sambrailo (Football)

Watsonville-born Ty Sambrailo is a former professional football player who has played as an offensive tackle in the NFL. He played college football at Colorado State University before being drafted by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Sambrailo has also played for the Atlanta Falcons and the Tennessee Titans, contributing to their offensive lines with his skills and versatility. Though Sambrailo announced his retirement from professional football in 2021, his professional legacy continues to bring pride to Watsonville.

4. Daisy Cornejo (Volleyball)

Daisy Cornejo, a senior at Watsonville High School, has been a standout player for the school's volleyball team. In October 2024, she delivered an exceptional performance with 18 kills, 20 digs and four service aces, leading her team to a thrilling five-set victory over Gonzales High. Cornejo's dedication and talent have made her a prominent figure in the local high school sports scene, inspiring future generations of athletes in Watsonville.

5. Ruben Mora (Multi-sport Athlete)

Ruben Mora, a graduate of Watsonville High School, has excelled in multiple sports, including football, wrestling, and track. Despite battling injuries, he earned All-Pacific Coast Athletic League First Team honors as a defensive lineman in football and was selected to play in the Central Coast All-Star High School Football Game in January 2023. Mora's resilience and versatility have made him a celebrated local athlete, exemplifying Watsonville's spirit of determination and excellence in sports.

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