PREVIOUS SCHOOLS:
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Fullerton College (2021–2023): Two-year standout at Fullerton College where he continued to develop as a versatile infielder and offensive contributor.
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Liberty University (2019–2020): Began his college baseball career at Liberty, gaining valuable experience at the NCAA Division I level.
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Valencia High School (Placentia, Calif.): Graduated in 2019 from Valencia HS, where he was a key player for the Tigers baseball program.
Personal
Born on September 5, 2000, Niko is the son of Frank and Cali Santamaria. He is majoring in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Physical Education and chose to attend Concordia University Irvine because of the beautiful campus and its proximity to home.
Off the field, Niko enjoys spending time in the desert during winter break, where he rides dirt bikes and camps with family and friends. He's a fan of SportsCenter, and his favorite movie is Happy Gilmore. His favorite holiday is Christmas, a time he cherishes for reuniting with extended family.
A passionate music fan, Niko listens to artists like Luke Combs, Jon Pardi, and Kendrick Lamar. His go-to songs include “Ain’t Always The Cowboy” by Jon Pardi and “Beautiful Crazy” by Luke Combs.
A lifelong Los Angeles Dodgers fan, his favorite professional athlete is Andre Ethier. If given the chance to host a dinner with anyone, he would bring along his teammates Haku Dudoit, Kaipo Haole, and Tank Espalin—a true reflection of his team-first spirit and close bond with the CUI baseball family.
