GALT, CA (MPG) - Liberty Ranch Athletic Director Samantha Vitoria announced Shaye Setter as this year’s Male Athlete of the Year at the Senior Awards Night.

“This year’s male athlete of the year is a young man who is a leader on the field and on campus,” said Vitoria. “He always has a positive attitude and is always willing to help other athletes, teachers and staff. All our Liberty Ranch coaching staff agree he is the most deserving of this award.”

While attending Liberty Ranch High School, Shaye Setter played two years of JV football and two years of varsity football, and he was pulled up for playoffs his sophomore year after the JV season ended. Setter is also an excellent baseball player, having played one year in JV and three years on Varsity. This last season, Setter played catcher and was very consistent at bat.

Setter says football was his favorite. “I definitely had a passion for football.”

Head Coach Warren Schroeder was very impressed with Setter’s drive and commitment, as the young man always gave his all. “Shaye was a tremendous example of perseverance and resiliency on the field,” said Schroeder. “We were proud to have him as a captain on the team. Shaye has the strength and the heart of a lion. He never quit.”

Setter played a lot of sports in his youth. “I played soccer, baseball and basketball growing up, but when I went into 8th grade, I started playing football and regretted never playing earlier.”

Setter was awarded CIF All-League in football his junior and senior years. He was also on the Superintendent’s Honor Roll and graduated with a 3.8 Cumulative GPA. 

Anyone who watches Setter play can see how competitive and driven he is. 

Setter explains, “I hate to lose, probably more than anything in the entire world. I also just like to be the best I possibly can so I can feel like I made my mark on that play or game whatever it may be.”

Setter will be heading to Butte College in the fall to pursue its welding program and has a goal to have a career as a welding inspector. 

Setter’s all-time favorite memory is going 10-0 his junior year in football, securing the League title with that perfect season.

Setter appreciates all the coaches he has had during his athletic careers.

“I thank each and every coach that has ever been a part of my life,” said Setter. “I have learned something from every single one that I can take and use for the rest of my life and that is what really matters.”