As the new season kicks off, Coach Juan Sanchez is excited to introduce the 2024-2025 Women's Soccer Team. This year, the squad features a promising mix of talent, with a strong group of incoming freshmen joining a seasoned group of returning players. The roster features eight returning players, six of whom were starters last year, and a skilled group of newcomers, some of whom took a gap year and are coming in with increased physical and mental maturity. Coach Sanchez is confident that this blend of experience and fresh energy will create a solid foundation for success, and is eager to see the returners exercising their leadership abilities by fostering a supportive and competitive environment.
The season opens on Friday, August 9, with a highly anticipated matchup against the University of Mexico. Although this is a scrimmage and the outcome will not affect the division or state standings, it provides Mt. SAC with an excellent opportunity to face a highly skilled team and prepare for the challenges ahead. The Mt. SAC Women's Soccer Team is scheduled to play six of the top ten community colleges in the country including Folsom and Cypress, who played in the State Championships last year. "If we can get used to playing top-quality teams, when playoffs come around, we will be prepared when it matters," Sanchez said. "We need to play the best to be the best." He knows his team is up for the challenge and believes that getting into the right mindset is half the battle.
In addition to on-field drills and conditioning, Coach Sanchez is focused on developing the team's mental resilience and teamwork. The players are building trust and strengthening their relationships through team bonding exercises, including Thursday morning bagel breakfasts, and planning for pre-game gatherings. "Trust is huge," claims Sanchez. "When there isn't trust, it makes for a broken team." These activities aim to foster a strong sense of unity and collaboration, with everyone working towards the same goal.
As for season goals, the intention is to win the state championship. Although Coach Sanchez has been with the Mt. SAC soccer program since 2001, he has only been the head coach for the women's team since 2020. Under his leadership, the program has become a soccer powerhouse, reaching the final four in 2021 and competing in the state championship in 2022. Last year, the team won the SCC North Division but fell short of their post-season goals. Sanchez hopes the returning players will use that experience as motivation to push harder and go further this season.
As the 2024-2025 Women's Soccer Team gears up for what promises to be an exciting season, fans and supporters can look forward to a thrilling journey filled with skill, determination and team spirit. With high hopes and strong ambition, the team is ready to compete fiercely throughout the season. We hope to see you in the stands cheering on our Mounties as they strive for greatness and aim to achieve their championship goals.
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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.