Burbank Girls Soccer 2025 Season Recap: Growth, Grit, and a Promising Future
The 2025 winter season for the Burbank High School girls soccer team was a journey defined not by a single moment of glory but by steady growth, resilient effort, and the rise of young leaders. Under the leadership of Head Coach Dennis Leon, the team navigated a year of highs and lows with an eye toward the future—laying a strong foundation for seasons to come.
While the scoreboard didn’t always reflect their ambition, the Bulldogs demonstrated grit, potential, and a deep commitment to team growth. From senior leadership to emerging stars, this season was full of learning experiences and character-defining performances.
Three Pillars of Success
At the heart of Burbank’s competitive edge this season were three key players who consistently stepped up and set the tone for the rest of the squad.
Jocelyn Morinaga led with relentless energy and effort. Whether tracking back to defend or pushing forward to score, her motor never stopped. Coach Leon praised her not just for her production, but for her example: “Her leadership by example helped raise the level of those around her.”
Then there was Sophia Leon, who shouldered the responsibility of captaincy for the first time. As a technically gifted playmaker, she became the team’s engine in the midfield. Her vision and soccer IQ helped organize the attack, and her leadership blossomed over the course of the season. “She stepped into a leadership position with confidence and maturity,” said Coach Leon. “She became more vocal and composed under pressure.”
On the defensive side, Delilah Williams proved to be an anchor. Known for her toughness and resilience, she took on each challenge with a fearless attitude. Her presence in the backline helped steady the team in critical moments and kept opponents from finding easy goals.
Together, these three players defined the character and identity of this year’s team: determined, disciplined, and unshakable.
A Season of Learning and Growth
For Coach Leon, this season was a mixed bag of results but full of progress.
“In my opinion, the season was okay overall,” he reflected. “We had some really good games where everything clicked, and the team showed what they’re capable of. But we also had some tough games where we struggled.”
Despite the inconsistencies, the team never let frustration define their identity. Instead, each match—whether a win, loss, or draw—was treated as a lesson. “The progress came little by little,” Leon said. “While it wasn’t always easy to see in the moment, the team definitely developed over time through those experiences.”
Building Through Adversity
Burbank’s path this season wasn’t without its challenges. Injuries, tough losses, and high-pressure games tested the squad repeatedly. But rather than unravel, the team responded with growing resilience and unity.
“They never gave up,” said Leon. “They learned to support each other more, communicate better, and keep pushing even when things didn’t go our way.”
These trying moments became the emotional glue that bonded the players. The adversity revealed the team’s mental toughness and their drive to grow not just as athletes, but as teammates.
Leadership from the Senior Class
While younger players began carving out their roles, the senior class brought a calm, steady presence. One standout senior was Nicole Shamiryan, who led not through volume, but through action.
“She led with a quiet confidence and consistently gave her all,” Leon shared. “Her dedication and positive attitude set the standard for the rest of the team.”
Nicole’s consistency and work ethic made her a role model for the underclassmen. Her influence helped shape a supportive, disciplined team culture that will live on after her graduation.
A Promising Core Returning
Looking ahead, Coach Leon is excited about what’s next—and for good reason. A strong group of returners, many of whom took on significant minutes this year, will be back for the 2026 season.
“This group has seen what it takes. They’ve grown through challenges, and now they’re ready to take on bigger roles,” Leon explained. “They’re hardworking, coachable players who care about the team and want to build something special.”
With the likes of Sophia Leon continuing to lead and young players stepping into the spotlight, the Bulldogs are well-positioned for a breakthrough in the near future.
What’s Next: Focus Areas for the Offseason
With experience under their belts and a motivated group returning, the offseason will be critical in turning potential into performance.
“We’re looking to improve our consistency, both in performance and mentality,” said Leon. “We showed flashes of what we’re capable of, but now it’s about bringing that level every game.”
Key areas of focus will include communication, decision-making under pressure, and overall fitness—the small but vital details that often separate good teams from great ones.
“If we can tighten up those little details and continue building chemistry,” Leon added, “I think we’ll take a big step forward as a group.”
No Turning Point—Just Progress
Unlike some seasons that are defined by a single comeback win or a dramatic goal, Coach Leon believes this year was shaped by steady development rather than any one moment.
“I don’t think there was one single defining moment or turning point,” he said. “With every game, we learned and grew.”
That mindset—incremental improvement, learning from both wins and setbacks—is what made this season a valuable chapter in Burbank’s program journey.
Check the Stats
For fans and community members who want to track the Bulldogs’ progress, all game stats and team results can be found on MaxPreps, where the team’s journey is documented in detail.
Conclusion: Growth Today, Promise Tomorrow
The 2025 Burbank High School girls soccer season wasn’t about chasing perfection—it was about building something real. Through leadership, adversity, and collective effort, the team made important strides toward becoming a more complete and competitive unit.
Coach Leon and the Bulldogs aren’t content with “okay.” The passion, hunger, and foundation they built this season suggest that better days are coming—and soon.
With strong leadership returning, a clear vision, and a commitment to improvement, Burbank girls soccer is poised for a strong future.
The groundwork has been laid. Now, it’s time to rise.
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