by Enrique Gutierrez

The St. John Bosco soccer team continues to have a productive season with many more achievements compared to previous years, even though they are not looking so hot mid-season.

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Through the heat and rain, the Bosco soccer team grinds day-in and day-out working hard to prepare themselves for tough competition. Coming into their 2019 season, the Braves knew their competition was nothing to sleep on as many of their match ups are unpredictable.

Currently, the Braves are in progress of competing in their Trinity League games against rival teams. The team’s record during the preseason was 9-6-1. During League, the Braves are 2-2, as they beat JSerra and Orange Lutheran, but fell short against Mater Dei and Santa Margarita.  

“This has been the most talented team that we’ve had in the past couple years. Our roster is stacked but not everyone gets playing time. This brings intensity and passion to work hard everyday,” said senior defensive midfielder Xavier Aviles. 

Aviles is a four-year varsity player for the Braves.

After a rough start against rival league schools, the Braves kept their heads up and will continue to have to face tough competition to earn a playoff berth.

“Our lack of experience can cause some trouble when playing some of the stronger teams – since we’re a young team. The majority of the team are juniors and sophomores. But we adapt to the struggle otherwise,” said senior goalkeeper Rufino Rodriguez.

For many of the players, this is their first taste of the varsity level and getting to know their opponents well. With the young core of the Bosco soccer team, the school will be looking forward to many returning faces and hopefully the players will get a taste of these rivalries in the varsity level for the future.

“Relating back to the topic about our younger players, the pressure of competing in a tough division may worry some players in certain scenarios. Also the addition of injures to many key players only adds onto the pressure for the younger players to perform,” said Rodriguez.

The Braves are now 2-2 in their league games and will host their home conference game against Servite at St. John Bosco High School on Friday, January 18th at 3:15 pm. Be there and support our Braves!