Whittier HS: Named his team’s Most Improved Athlete as a senior after posting a personal best time of 15:35 over a three-mile course… Earned their Rookie of the Year his junior season… Spent two years on the cross country and track and field teams… Competed in the 400 meters (54.0), 800 meters (2:03) and 1600 meters (4:34)…..

Personal: Aspires to be a back surgeon... Hobbies include running… Nicknamed “Luigi”… Has three siblings – Jose (18), Karina (13) and Julio (11)… Is the son of David and Norma Valdez… Born in Los Angeles, CA on June 30, 1996…..

Favorite Athlete:  Usain Bolt                     Favorite Movie:  “Crazy, Stupid, Love”
Favorite Food:  Chinese                            Favorite TV Show: “How I Met Your Mother”
Favorite Book:  “Holes”