La Mirada junior Khari Julio has been a strong leader for the Matadores this season and has earned Athlete of the Month for February. Competing in the throwing events, Khari has continued to improve while also helping lead her teammates.

Khari, who has been throwing for three years, competes in both discus and shot put. She currently holds a personal record of 95 feet 4 inches in discus and 25 feet 5 inches in shot put, showing her growth and dedication in the sport.

According to head coach Christina Prieto, Khari was nominated as this year’s captain for the throwing group and consistently leads by example. She is always willing to help her teammates and brings a positive attitude to every practice and meet. Her leadership has helped build a strong sense of community within the throwing group.

Khari says her favorite part of track is “having a community and enjoying my sport with other people,” which matches exactly how her coach and teammates describe her. She’s someone who lifts others up and makes the team better.

One of her most memorable moments was qualifying for CIF last year, where she had the opportunity to compete against high-level throwers and experience a bigger stage. That experience has helped motivate her heading into this season.

Khari looks up to Kobe Bryant because of his drive and work ethic, something she brings into her own training and competitions. Whether she’s at practice or competing, she consistently shows determination and focus.

After high school, Khari plans to continue throwing, likely starting at Cerritos College and working toward the next level.

Congratulations to Khari Julio, La Mirada’s Athlete of the Month for February!