Student: Adrian Arjon
Year in School: Senior
Plans After High School: Adrian plans to attend Bakersfield College for two years and then transfer to CSUB to earn his degree in criminal justice.
GPS Focus: GROWTH
What Makes Adrian #BulldogSTRONG: As the world was confronted with the fallout and tragedy of the global Covid-19 pandemic in the Spring of 2020, Golden Valley High School student Adrian Arjon was also faced with a traumatic experience that would forever change his life. On May 31, 2020, while at a friend’s house, Adrian fell asleep at the bonfire that was burning and when he woke up, still feeling tired, he tripped and stumbled, landing into the fire pit. As the flames charred his hands, shoulder, and face, Adrian was rushed to the emergency room and for the next two months, the hospital would become Adrian’s new home as he underwent a major skin graft to repair some of the damaged and burnt skin on his body as well as reconstructive ear surgery. After his time in the hospital, Adrian would spend another two months of recovery from home as his body healed from the damage of the fire. Despondent, depressed, and coping with the anxiety of the traumatic experience, there was little hope for Adrian as he rested at home. However, as Covid-19 restrictions started loosening up and as confirmation of sports being played in the Spring of 2021 became reality, Adrian found hope in football and was determined to get back onto the field of play. In navigating the physical requirements and clearances from doctor’s to play again, Adrian was able to suit up his sophomore year with sleeves and wraps to cover the damaged skin, playing all five games that Spring, bringing back a joy that had been missing since that tragic day in May of 2020. Through his inspirational effort, Adrian established himself as one of the team leaders, forever charting a new and positive direction for the Bulldog football program.
As a Senior this year, Adrian has become vital to the success of the Bulldogs (4-5, 2-0) as they look to defeat Foothill High School on Friday and be crowned the first ever South Yosemite Horizon League Champions. For his part, Adrian has been the consummate teammate, willing to step in wherever the coaches need him. On offense, Adrian has accumulated 50 rushing yards on 4 carries, with one touchdown. Additionally, he has two receptions for 57 yards including a 55 yard TD reception against Sunnyside High School in Week 1. However, it has been on the defensive side of the ball in which Adrian has left his impact this year as he has accumulated 85 tackles, second on the team behind his brother Emilio Arjon who has 106 respectively. Adrian also has sacked the opposing quarterback one time, but his toughness is felt with each down that he plays. For Adrian, he plays the game with no regrets because he realizes how precious life is. “I have learned to appreciate life and all that comes with it,” humbly states Adrian, “Life isn’t easy, but I know that I am surrounded by people that care about me and that I care about…For ALL students at GVHS, do not take anything for granted and never give up on your hopes and dreams.” For his ability to overcome a traumatic obstacle in the Spring of 2020, Adrian Arjon has emerged as an inspirational leader that instills hope in the Bulldog Football program as they close in on a South Yosemite Horizon League Championship further making him #BulldogSTRONG.
In a Week 1 game against Sunnyside High School, Adrian Arjon had an impressive 55 yard TD reception for the Bulldogs.
What #BulldogSTRONG Means to Adrian: "What #BulldogSTRONG means to me is to never give up on your goals that you want to accomplish in life. It also means to take pride in everything you do and to always be ready for what life brings your way. It finally means to be of service to others by treating everyone with respect, be positive, and help others when they need it.”
What Teachers and Staff Think of Adrian:
“I have had the privilege to have Adrian in my football program for 4 years. The growth I’ve seen from him has been amazing and inspiring. Adrian has been through some ups and downs over the 4 years while at GV. He could have given up and quit on his friends, team and himself. But instead he chose to do better and be better. The commitment he has shown to his teammates and this program are a major reason we have seen the positive changes in our football program. He is a great leader who leads by example on and off the field. Thank you, Adrian, for being the change that we needed. I am proud of you kid.” James Cain, Head Football Coach and Community Specialist, Golden Valley High School
“Adrian is such an awesome young man. It has been a pleasure to watch him grow into a team leader on and off of the field. He is one of those athletes that leads by example but is also not afraid to speak up when sees something that is going wrong. I believe that Adrian will do amazing things with his life in the future.” Robert Haskell, Athletic Director, Golden Valley High School
“Adrian Arjon is a great young man and a leader on our football team. He shows GROWTH by honoring his commitment to the team and giving 100% on the field.” Dustin Wilkins, Program Specialist and Assistant Football Coach, Golden Valley High School
“I have had Adrian in my classes for the last two years and he is one of my hardest workers. Adrian doesn’t say a lot, but he leads by example and the other students feed off of his positive energy and strong work ethic. Adrian will have a very successful future, if he keeps up with his outstanding mindset.” Bill Richardson, Head Volleyball Coach and PE Department Chair, Golden Valley High School
“Adrian Arjon is a joy to have in Guitar class. In being Bulldog Strong, he shows great personal maturity and a strong work ethic. Adrian is also empathetic toward others who may be struggling and shows leadership by helping in any way that he can.” Julia Bland, Music Appreciation Teacher, Golden Valley High School
“Adrian is a great athlete who has gone through a lot, and is still striving to succeed. I have enjoyed having him in my class.” Joe Rojas, PE Teacher and JV Wrestling Coach, Golden Valley HIgh School