This Is the First Time in 9 Years
By Alana Elliott
One of the biggest reasons for the success of the team is our coach, Carlos Cuellar. He took over the program late last year just prior to the season beginning. Coach Cuellar wants everyone on the team to work hard, but he also wants everyone to play. Last season we finished second in league and lost in first round of CIF play. This year we will have our first CIF game at home today and we plan on moving forward! Two seasons coaching and two CIF appearances tells how our coach has made a positive impact.
Our most recent game was against South Pasadena and we won 2-1. The first goal was by forward Savanna Pfau, who redirected a header by forward Alana Elliott. The second goal was by forward Brandy Perez, who redirected a left footed shot by midfielder Michelle Palfrey.
One of our greatest strengths is our senior captain goalkeeper Ariana Robles. She made eight saves in the game against South Pasadena. Newcomer freshman contributing are defenders McKenna Ray and Joanna (Jelly) Maciel, forward Gabriela Farjardo, and forward/GK Alyssa Holt.
Our sophomores are defender Kate Olgilvie and forward Megan Matthiesen. Juniors include forwards Emy Ochoa, Virginia Valdez, Brandy Perez, and center midfielders Rayana Ras and Amelia Uribe.
The best part of the team is the number of seniors who are playing this season. There are more returning players than ever before. Senior forwards are Savanna Pfau, Alana Elliott, and Chloe Gutierrez. Midfielders are Theresa Albrecht, Emily Matthiesen, Michelle Palfrey, and Amanda Hornell. Defenders Aisling O’Beirne, and Valerie Ochoa. Our goalkeeper Ariana Robles is also a senior. So we have every position on the field with a senior!
If you want to look at league stats or team stats please visit www.maxpreps.com and search for Monrovia girls’ soccer.
