Pioneer Athlete Spotlight on Gianna Gnusti, Carondelet High
School: Carondelet High
Grade: Senior
Sport: Rugby
CONCORD, CA (May 27, 2025) — Carondelet athletic director Steve Stokes introduced Gnusti at the recent national letter of intent signing ceremony on the Concord campus by saying, “Gianna’s rugby journey is a testament to her resilience, leadership and athletics excellence. Whether on the field as a captain or overcoming injury, Gianna has always led by example and played with heart, strength and determination.”
The senior from Pleasant Hill is headed to the University of Oregon to play for Dirty Ducks Rugby. She was a JV team captain as a sophomore and this spring was Cougar varsity captain. She has competed in a national rugby club tournament in Pennsylvania and with an all-star team in Utah.
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She capped her Carondelet athletic career by recently being one of two members of the Class of 2025 to receive the Cougar Award. The recipient of this prestigious award is a member of the graduating class who has made the most significant impact on the athletics program over the past four years. This award isn’t just about skill or talent; it is about recognizing the person who embodies the spirit of Carondelet by uplifting others, leading not with words but with actions, and shining bright but making those around her shine brighter. The presentation said, “Even while sidelined with an injury, Gnusti showed up every day supporting her teammates, lifting spirits and becoming a steady presence both on and off the field. Her leadership, grace in adversity and deep love for the team have left a lasting impact that will be felt long after she graduates.”
The Pioneer congratulates Gianna and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for over three decades at Family Vision Care Optometry. laceyandruzicka.com.
Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or a great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@pioneerpublishers.com
Jay Bedecarré
Jay Bedecarré is a long-time resident and writer in Concord and Clayton. He began his newspaper writing career while still a senior at Mt. Diablo High School and he has been part of The Pioneer since its inception in 2003. Jay also operates Bay Area Festivals, presenting events around the San Francisco Bay Area including Bay Area KidFest annually in Downtown Concord.