The Alisal Trojans Boys’ Soccer team embarked on a memorable journey last season, one filled with both triumphs and challenges that tested their resilience and unity. Despite facing some setbacks, the Trojans demonstrated remarkable perseverance and spirit, culminating in a season that laid the groundwork for future success.
Last year, the Trojans showcased their prowess on the field with a league record of 7-3-2 and an overall record of 12-5-4. Their performance earned them a coveted spot in the playoffs. However, their playoff dreams were cut short as they faced a tough opponent in the first round. “Last season was disappointing because we had a very good team,” Head Coach Mark Cisneros said. “We won the championships and we had high expectations for the playoffs. However, in the first round of the playoffs, we had some bad luck with one of our players getting a red card in the first 2 minutes of the game, so that put us at a disadvantage for the entire game. We ended up losing 1-0.” While this early exit was disappointing, it served as a valuable learning experience for the team, highlighting areas for growth and improvement.
One of the significant challenges the Trojans faced was the graduation of 15 players, a substantial loss that could have dampened the spirits of any team. Yet, the Trojans chose to view this as an opportunity rather than a setback. “It’s going to be one of those seasons where we have to keep learning,’ Cisneros said.
Despite the challenges posed by graduation, the Trojans are bolstered by the return of several key players who bring experience, skill, and leadership to the team. Andres Avila, Gerardo Mendoza, Jose Coronado, Emmanuel Mendoza, Damian Hernandez, Ronaldo Quintana, Diego Carabajal, and Rodolfo Pacheco are among those who provide a solid foundation upon which the new talents can build. Carbajal said,”My goals for this year are hopefully qualifying for CCS and obviously winning.”
As the new season unfolds, the Trojans are driven by a renewed sense of purpose and ambition. Under the guidance of their dedicated coach, the team has set clear goals that reflect their desire to excel and make a mark. “Our constant goal is to work hard every day in practice,” Cisneros said, underscoring the importance of daily effort and commitment as the foundation for success.
The preseason was an exciting and hopeful time for the team, filled with anticipation and a strong sense of camaraderie. The team finished the preseason with a balanced record of 3-3-1, which set a solid foundation for league. Hernandez said, “It was memorable; it was fun. It was good energy all around.” This positive energy was fueled by the team’s strong chemistry, which both Hernandez and Avila emphasized. Hernandez noted, “Our team chemistry was good because we would hang out off the field more.” Avila added, “Our team chemistry honestly was pretty strong. We would hang out most of the time during school and outside of school, so I felt that bond really built up over the season.”
In terms of specific objectives, the Trojans are focused on winning league, a challenging yet attainable goal that requires consistency and excellence. “Our short-term goal is to do everything we can to win the league,” Cisneros said, highlighting the immediate focus on performing well within their division.
But the Trojans’ aspirations extend beyond the league. “Our long-term goal is the CCS championship, and then from there, we want to go to the state championship,” Cisneros said.
The team is off to a solid start at 1-0-1 in league, two games behind Alvarez in the win column, who started 3-0.
The team is on a mission. Last year’s achievements and challenges have laid a strong foundation, and despite the obstacles, the team is poised for greater success. With clear goals, a commitment to hard work, and the support of returning key players, the Trojans are ready to take on the new season with renewed vigor and determination.
