The girl’s soccer team strapped on their shin guards and pulled up their socks in early October in preparation for the 2016-2017 season. After a disappointing season last year, head coach Manuel Rodriguez (Rocco) has high hopes for the team this year.

Serving in his second year as head coach, Rocco is no stranger to the world of sports. With seven years of coaching and sports conditioning experience, Rocco has the leadership skills to help the team and the belief that the girls can be successful this year. “ I have always believed this soccer season is going to be good because we have returners and new players that have a stronger desire to work hard for the team,” said Rocco. “They play with their hearts.”

The true test of the team’s ability will come in early November when they start their preseason matches.  “We will see how we do and what we have to work on,” explained Rocco

Senior Nancy Lopez De La Cruz was on the team last year and is ready for her final season. Despite the team’s poor performance in the 2015-16 season, De La Cruz believes that the team possesses the competitive spirit and camaraderie necessary to propel the team forward. “I feel like the season will be awesome because we’ll have fun and work as a team.”

For De La Cruz, and many of her teammates, soccer is more than a sport, it is an escape from the typical struggles of a high school student. “I like to play soccer because it makes me forget about everything else going on in my life,” explained De La Cruz. “I have fun with my teammates on the field and in practice.”

The team will play their first match on November 30.