New Mexico State University Athletics

High School Candelaria played as an infielder for Los Lunas High School in Los Lunas, N.M.  She earned all-district honors on three occasions, making the first team her final two seasons. Candelaria also earned a spot on the Albuquerque All-Metro team as a senior. She was selected as the MVP of the New Mexico North/South softball game, representing the south. Speedy on the base paths, Candelaria set the state record for triples in 2010 with 11 as a junior. She helped lead the Tigers to four district championships in five seasons starting in eighth grade. Candelaria's father, Pete, was also a member of the LLHS coaching staff. As a sophomore, Candelaria missed the entire athletic season after tearing an ACL. In the off-season Candelaria played for the New Mexico Sol club team, traveling the country to compete in national tourneys. A multi-sport athlete, Candelaria also excelled in soccer as the LLHS goalkeeper, earning a pair of all-district honors and also all-state honorable mention as a sophomore goalie. She also played basketball for four seasons at the point guard spot. Candelaria earned academic letters in her final two years at Los Lunas. She also participated in community service through San Clemente Church.

Personal: Candelaria plans to major in criminal justice at NM State. She was born in Las Vegas, N.M., to Pete and Michelle Candelaria. Pete played baseball and Michelle starred on the softball team at New Mexico Highlands University.