Moreno Valley High Soccer Reclaims League Title with Youth, Grit, and a Clear Vision for the Future
After nearly a decade of waiting, Moreno Valley High School's varsity boys soccer team has once again claimed the league title, a triumph that marks not only a return to glory but also the beginning of a promising new chapter for the program. Under the leadership of Coach Annoar Perez, the 2025 season was a story of resilience, growth, and a team that came together around a common goal—winning the league for the first time since 2016.
In this installment of our 2025 Winter Season Recap Series, we caught up with Coach Perez to reflect on the standout players, pivotal moments, and what lies ahead for this rising squad.
A Team Effort Backed by Individual Brilliance
Moreno Valley's league championship run was built on the shoulders of a dedicated team, but a few standout names made an especially lasting impact. At the forefront was Sayed Khan (#10), the team’s Most Valuable Player and the league’s leading goal scorer with an astonishing 23 goals. His consistent offensive output gave MVHS the edge in tight contests and solidified his reputation as one of the Inland Empire’s most dangerous attacking threats.
Coach Perez also credited the spine of the team for their success. The forward line was anchored by Alex Rivera, while the midfield engine was powered by Jacob Bedolla and Christian Alvarez. Defensively, Abraham Quintero and Leo DeLaSerna formed a formidable center-back duo, providing stability in the back line alongside goalkeeper Emanuel Munoz, whose presence in goal was vital throughout the season.
“Our success started with the core of our team,” said Perez. “They made it possible for us to stay composed, compete in every match, and ultimately, win the league.”
Another behind-the-scenes hero? Coach Carlos, whose physical training programs laid the foundation for the team’s endurance and strength throughout a challenging season. “His training was instrumental,” Perez shared. “It elevated our entire program.”
A Historic Season with a Turning Point
The 2025 campaign will be remembered not only for the league title but also for the team’s determination to learn from early setbacks. The season didn’t start the way Moreno Valley had hoped, as they dropped their first league match. But instead of letting that loss derail their ambitions, the players responded with maturity beyond their years.
“We used that two-week break to reflect, refocus, and recommit to our goals,” said Perez. “From that moment, we went seven games undefeated—with seven wins and two ties—and that became the spark that led us to the top of the table.”
This resilience wasn’t just about tactics—it was cultural. The loss forced the team to dig deep and unify. It was the defining moment that turned a talented group into champions.
Young Talent Stepping Up in Big Ways
One of the most exciting aspects of the season was the emergence of young stars who rose to the occasion as the season progressed. Two players in particular—sophomore forward Alex Rivera and sophomore center-back Leo DeLaSerna—grew into indispensable roles.
“Alex became a critical attacking force,” said Perez. “And Leo was rock-solid in the back, showing the composure and leadership of someone far beyond his age.”
Their development highlights the depth of Moreno Valley’s roster and the coaching staff’s ability to cultivate talent. With many of these players set to return next season, MVHS isn’t just celebrating a title—they’re building a dynasty.
Senior Leadership and the Culture of Winning
Coach Perez was quick to point out that none of this season’s success would have been possible without the leadership and hunger brought by the senior class. Their influence went far beyond what showed up in stat sheets.
“This group of seniors brought an unmatched desire to win,” he said. “That energy filtered down to the younger players. They set the tone, and the rest of the team followed.”
In a sport that often balances youthful exuberance with veteran composure, this year’s seniors proved to be the heartbeat of the squad, laying the groundwork for what’s coming next.
Looking Ahead: The Ivy League Challenge and Beyond
While this season ends with well-earned hardware, the mindset at MVHS is already looking forward. And the future is full of challenges and promise.
In the 2025–2026 season, Moreno Valley will move up into the prestigious IVY League, one of the most competitive soccer leagues in Southern California, featuring top 10 Inland Empire teams.
“We’re returning 8 to 9 starters,” said Coach Perez. “And we were already one of the youngest teams in our league. We’re ready to take on the next level.”
This transition will test the team’s mettle, but if this past season is any indicator, they’re more than ready for the challenge. The players have already experienced what it takes to win—now it’s about repeating that success against even stronger competition.
Offseason Goals: Culture First, Always
While tactics and fitness will continue to be refined, Coach Perez is focusing on something deeper during the offseason: team culture and habit-building.
“My biggest goal is always about culture,” he said. “I want our players—from freshmen to seniors—to build the right habits, on and off the pitch.”
This emphasis on discipline, unity, and long-term development is what has allowed MVHS to not only compete but thrive, and it’s what Coach Perez believes will sustain the program for years to come.
Stay Connected
For fans wanting to follow Moreno Valley High Soccer more closely, stats are available on MaxPreps, but the team’s most up-to-date news, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content can be found on Instagram: @mvhs_soccer_boys.
Final Word: A New Era Begins
The 2025 season will go down as one of the most transformative years in Moreno Valley High School soccer history. From breaking a nine-year title drought to watching underclassmen shine under pressure, the campaign was rich with moments that will inspire future generations of MVHS players.
Coach Perez and his staff have built more than a winning team—they’ve built a program based on hard work, leadership, and a belief that with the right mindset, anything is possible.
As they prepare to enter the Ivy League next season, one thing is certain: Moreno Valley High is back—and they’re just getting started.
, the team’s Most Valuable Player and the league’s leading goal scorer with an astonishing 23 goals. His consistent offensive output gave MVHS the edge in tight contests and solidified his reputation as one of the Inland Empire’s most dangerous attacking threats.
Coach Perez also credited the spine of the team for their success. The forward line was anchored by Alex Rivera, while the midfield engine was powered by Jacob Bedolla and Christian Alvarez. Defensively, Abraham Quintero and Leo DeLaSerna formed a formidable center-back duo, providing stability in the back line alongside goalkeeper Emanuel Munoz, whose presence in goal was vital throughout the season.
“Our success started with the core of our team,” said Perez. “They made it possible for us to stay composed, compete in every match, and ultimately, win the league.”
Another behind-the-scenes hero? Coach Carlos, whose physical training programs laid the foundation for the team’s endurance and strength throughout a challenging season. “His training was instrumental,” Perez shared. “It elevated our entire program.”
A Historic Season with a Turning Point
The 2025 campaign will be remembered not only for the league title but also for the team’s determination to learn from early setbacks. The season didn’t start the way Moreno Valley had hoped, as they dropped their first league match. But instead of letting that loss derail their ambitions, the players responded with maturity beyond their years.
“We used that two-week break to reflect, refocus, and recommit to our goals,” said Perez. “From that moment, we went seven games undefeated—with seven wins and two ties—and that became the spark that led us to the top of the table.”
This resilience wasn’t just about tactics—it was cultural. The loss forced the team to dig deep and unify. It was the defining moment that turned a talented group into champions.
Young Talent Stepping Up in Big Ways
One of the most exciting aspects of the season was the emergence of young stars who rose to the occasion as the season progressed. Two players in particular—sophomore forward Alex Rivera and sophomore center-back Leo DeLaSerna—grew into indispensable roles.
“Alex became a critical attacking force,” said Perez. “And Leo was rock-solid in the back, showing the composure and leadership of someone far beyond his age.”
Their development highlights the depth of Moreno Valley’s roster and the coaching staff’s ability to cultivate talent. With many of these players set to return next season, MVHS isn’t just celebrating a title—they’re building a dynasty.
Senior Leadership and the Culture of Winning
Coach Perez was quick to point out that none of this season’s success would have been possible without the leadership and hunger brought by the senior class. Their influence went far beyond what showed up in stat sheets.
“This group of seniors brought an unmatched desire to win,” he said. “That energy filtered down to the younger players. They set the tone, and the rest of the team followed.”
In a sport that often balances youthful exuberance with veteran composure, this year’s seniors proved to be the heartbeat of the squad, laying the groundwork for what’s coming next.
Looking Ahead: The Ivy League Challenge and Beyond
While this season ends with well-earned hardware, the mindset at MVHS is already looking forward. And the future is full of challenges and promise.
In the 2025–2026 season, Moreno Valley will move up into the prestigious IVY League, one of the most competitive soccer leagues in Southern California, featuring top 10 Inland Empire teams.
“We’re returning 8 to 9 starters,” said Coach Perez. “And we were already one of the youngest teams in our league. We’re ready to take on the next level.”
This transition will test the team’s mettle, but if this past season is any indicator, they’re more than ready for the challenge. The players have already experienced what it takes to win—now it’s about repeating that success against even stronger competition.
Offseason Goals: Culture First, Always
While tactics and fitness will continue to be refined, Coach Perez is focusing on something deeper during the offseason: team culture and habit-building.
“My biggest goal is always about culture,” he said. “I want our players—from freshmen to seniors—to build the right habits, on and off the pitch.”
This emphasis on discipline, unity, and long-term development is what has allowed MVHS to not only compete but thrive, and it’s what Coach Perez believes will sustain the program for years to come.
Stay Connected
For fans wanting to follow Moreno Valley High Soccer more closely, stats are available on MaxPreps, but the team’s most up-to-date news, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content can be found on Instagram: @mvhs_soccer_boys.
Final Word: A New Era Begins
The 2025 season will go down as one of the most transformative years in Moreno Valley High School soccer history. From breaking a nine-year title drought to watching underclassmen shine under pressure, the campaign was rich with moments that will inspire future generations of MVHS players.
Coach Perez and his staff have built more than a winning team—they’ve built a program based on hard work, leadership, and a belief that with the right mindset, anything is possible.
As they prepare to enter the Ivy League next season, one thing is certain: Moreno Valley High is back—and they’re just getting started.)
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