Ken Sciallo / Sevilla Photography
Posted: Dec 13, 2023
The Santa Barbara City College men's soccer team concluded a captivating season, marked by resilience, unexpected victories, and an unbreakable team spirit. Finishing with an overall record of 10-7-5 and a conference record of 5-4-1, the Vaqueros left an indelible mark on the pitch.
Securing a 2nd-place finish in the conference showcased the team's consistency and ability to compete at a high level. As they entered the 3C2A State Championships as the 15th seed, expectations were challenged and exceeded.
In a stunning upset, the Vaqueros faced off against the No. 2 seed, Fullerton College, in the first game of the state championships. The team's victory marked a historic moment, as it was the first time in six years that the Vaqueros advanced past the first round of the state championships. This achievement underscored the team's determination and ability to rise to the occasion.
The exhilarating journey reached its peak in the sweet 16, where the Vaqueros faced Cuyamaca in a hard-fought battle. Despite a valiant effort, the team fell short with a 3-2 loss, bringing an end to their remarkable run. The highs and lows of the tournament highlighted the team's resilience and the formidable challenges they overcame.
Individual excellence was duly recognized, with Charles Jay Retzer earning a spot on the All-Region team and securing a 1st team position alongside standout players Sebastian Rodriguez, Brandon Garcia de la Fuente, and Ivan Virgen. The 2nd team featured Karl Weidenfeld, Aiden Tapia-Palacios, and Arnav Pratury Rakkhit, each contributing significantly to the team's success.
Honorable mentions were given to Marco Rotundo and Simon Carricaburu, recognizing their valuable contributions throughout the season.
In reflecting on the team's journey, Head Coach Alexander Zermeno commended the players, stating, "The men showed what real grit was, with all the ups and downs of the season they never gave up hope and always BELIEVED." This unwavering belief encapsulates the heart and spirit of a team that faced challenges head-on, emerged stronger, and created lasting memories on the field.
As the season concludes, the Santa Barbara City College men's soccer team leaves a legacy of determination, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. The echoes of their achievements will undoubtedly resonate as inspiration for future seasons, reminding fans and players alike of the extraordinary journey that unfolded during this memorable campaign.
