On December 12, Patrick Evans coached the boys soccer at Valley High School with the help of Mr. David Diaz.  Although the boys got last place, Evans was still keeping his head high, proud of his team.  Evans said, “Don’t blame the players, you can always blame the coach.”

MacArthur was eliminated from the tournament after two games, winning neither.  The score between Lathrop and MacArthur was three to one.  Esqueda vs. MacArthur was a tie, one to one.

According to Evans, the boys were disappointed with the outcome.  “I’ll take the loss for my team,” said Evans.

Even with the results, there were some highlights.  Evans pointed to Joshua Estrada for scoring a goal, and for the effort of the entire team.  The team put forth the necessary effort, but sometimes the players are outmatched by superior skill level.

Eighth-grader Richard Quiroz said, “I think my team could’ve done better by communicating more.”  Richard played mid-field on the team and liked to move the ball a lot.  He felt that he gave it his all on the day of the tournament.

Eighth-grader Douglas Lopez, who wore #10 for the team said, “I chose this number because it’s the number of my favorite soccer player, Lionel Messi.  He is the soccer player that most inspires me.”  Douglas loves playing soccer and enjoyed his time on the team.

Evans was happy for the kids that tried out and made it through hell week, which included extensive conditioning for all team members.  Evans expected complete effort from the team, and he felt the boys delivered.

“Soccer is fun, fast paced, and has high energy,” said Evans.  It was enjoyable to again lead the team in the tournament, even though they were not able to win a championship.  Evans knows that there is more to sports than winning.

Evans chose the team by looking for player that have endless effort, skill, good attitude and if the boys are coachable. They boys practiced Monday-Fridays except Wednesdays in the small bowl.