The Wilsonville boys’ varsity soccer team got off to a great start in the 2024 season, winning their first 2 games against Caldera and Southridge. Having ‘form’ to start the season is important for any team, especially for the Cats.

Gio Mendoza elaborates by saying, “We need to keep everyone healthy because we have a long ride ahead of us.” 

Senior, Alex Aguilar, added in an interview, “We always have had State Championship hopes, but we feel we can make it a reality.” With lots of these players being seniors, they prioritize catching wins and succeeding all standards of success. 

Mendoza shares, “Yes, I feel like we have a good chance to go to the State Championship, and this year seems different from last year.” Last season, the Wildcats went 8-8, losing in the playoffs. There seems to be a different mindset while training as the team preps for game-time scenarios. 

The Cats have had great form passing with set pieces and balls. Senior star player, Alex Aguliar, insights about how the concept of ‘team chemistry’ factors into overall goals by recalling, “It is a major part of success and we have success playing with each other and playing with different balls and set pieces.” 

Chemistry is always a huge part of success because typically, athletes perform better when the comradery of the sport is built on a foundational connection/friendship. And for Mendoza, he exudes, “It means everything. Without chemistry and trust, we can’t succeed in the season. So since we developed both and all of those things we are going to be good.”

Aguilar stated, “Chemistry and playing together has always been a huge thing echoed from the coaches; Doing the small things right, and getting results throughout the whole season.” 

The Cats’ next games are at Aloha, Beaverton, and West Linn. Aguilar said, “We prepare for the good and bad opponents by watching film and coming ready every time no matter what.”