In a closely contested matchup on senior night, the boys soccer team displayed a determination to honor the boys soccer seniors’ last home game and effort throughout the match, but ultimately fell with a final score of 2–3 on February 2. The loss did not overshadow the main focus of the night, which was honoring the graduating seniors in front of family, friends, and supporters in attendance.

The seniors recognized included Ismael Mariscal, Erick Caldera, Roger Vargas, Ronaldo Morales, Antonio Moreno, and Xavier Guerrero, each of whom was celebrated for their contributions to the program. Senior Ronaldo Morales, who plays defense, said the night felt surreal. “It kind of felt surreal because I got so used to playing here for four years, and every other year when it was senior night I would brush it off, but it was finally my senior night, so it was a different feeling. It completely took over my mind knowing that it was going to be over,” Morales said.

Looking back on his high school soccer career, Caldera, who is a midfielder, shared one moment that stood out the most. “My favorite memory was beating Dr. Maya Angelou in the quarterfinals because that was when we advanced to the semifinals, and that was the first time my school ever did that.”

As the season comes to an end, Ronaldo spoke about his plans for the sport moving forward. “I’ve always liked playing soccer ever since I was a kid, and I always dreamed of reaching the next level. My coaches have talked to me and said that I could play college soccer. It is on my mind, but I am also into other sports. If the opportunity is here, then I think I could see myself playing college soccer,” Morales added.

Ismael Mariscal, who is a forward in soccer, offered advice. “Listen to the coaches when they’re going over the drills. They’re trying to help you improve on your game. Especially the ones in JV, they’re trying to get you ready for varsity,” Mariscal said.

On a more personal level, Ronaldo Morales reflected on what the sport has taught him over the years. “I could always push myself to become a better person and to not back down from anybody, no matter if they’re bigger than you or if they’re smaller than me. That’s how you’re going to win in life if you keep going.” Morales said. 

He also added that the person he will miss the most is Ismael Mariscal. “My friend since sixth grade, he’s also a senior, ” Morales added. He has been there for me and always talked about joining soccer and playing together. He was always there by my side, and it’s going to be hard not to play with him. He made these four years very memorable, and I am lucky to have a friend like him,” Morales said.

Throughout the game, the team remained competitive and maintained strong defensive pressure. Although the final result did not favor the team, senior night served as a meaningful conclusion to the seniors.