Armijo Boys Soccer Closes 2025 Season with Promise and Heart
The 2025 winter season was a year of growth, resilience, and emerging potential for the Armijo High School Boys Soccer program, led by Head Coach Alonso Frias. While the win-loss column may have shown an "average" ending in the standings, the true story of this season lies deeper—in the leadership of key veterans, the rise of young talent, and a team spirit that never faltered, even in the face of adversity.
A Unified Front: Team Contribution at Its Core
Coach Frias was quick to emphasize that success this season was not built on the shoulders of a few standout players, but rather through the collective efforts of the entire squad. "Everyone as a team contributed their own grain of sand," he said. Still, several players stood out for their impactful roles.
At the heart of the team’s identity were its captains, Caleb Aguilar and David Hernandez. Aguilar anchored the backline, commanding the defense with composure and leadership, while Hernandez operated as the team’s creative force on the attacking end. Their influence was felt far beyond their positions; they set the tone, both tactically and emotionally, for the rest of the squad.
The team also had a standout season from striker Artemio Perez, who led the offensive charge with 13 goals in 14 games—earning him the title of Offensive Player of the Year in the Golden State League (GSL). His clinical finishing and consistency were essential in keeping Armijo competitive throughout the campaign.
A Promising Start, A Resilient Finish
Coach Frias described the season as one that began with promise and closed with dignity. For much of the first half of league play, the Royals were firmly in playoff contention, showcasing a fluid playing style and sharp execution. But as the season wore on, injuries and roster fluctuations tested the team’s depth, and results became harder to come by.
Despite the dip in performance, team chemistry never wavered. “Everyone was on the same page and there was never any animosity,” Frias emphasized. That cohesion was a defining feature of the season and one of its most lasting achievements.
The emotional high point came during Senior Night, the final game of the year. Playing in front of their home fans, the Royals went into halftime trailing 0–2. Rather than fold, the team responded with urgency and unity, rallying to score three unanswered goals and complete a thrilling comeback victory. “It showed who we were as a team,” Frias said. “We ended on a high note.”
Emerging Talent: Youth Makes Its Mark
Perhaps the most exciting storyline of the season was the emergence of Armijo’s next generation of stars. Freshmen wingers Jose Becerra and Miguel Sanchez stepped up in big ways, becoming regular starters and demonstrating maturity beyond their years.
Both Becerra and Sanchez not only contributed goals, but also displayed the physicality, confidence, and decision-making typically seen in older players. On more than one occasion, they were tasked with leading the front line against much older and more experienced defenders—and rose to the challenge. “They played like they had been there before,” Coach Frias remarked.
This type of early experience will be invaluable moving forward, and with a strong sophomore class to complement them, the foundation for a bright future is already in place.
Stepping Up in the Face of Adversity
Injuries and player absences are part of any season, but what set this Armijo team apart was its ability to adapt. When key players went down, teammates were ready to fill in—sometimes in unfamiliar positions. Coach Frias praised his squad for their preparedness and ability to perform under pressure.
“Players who hadn’t been playing many minutes stepped up. They had been practicing hard for these opportunities,” he noted. This next-man-up mentality was a testament to the team’s preparation and internal competition, qualities that will continue to benefit the program.
A Senior Class That Left Its Mark
This year’s seniors brought more than just experience—they were the emotional core and cultural standard-setters. Two senior center backs formed the spine of the defense, while others held vital midfield and wing positions. Each senior understood the importance of accountability and mutual support. If one had a rough game, others stepped up to cover.
“They were the glue of the team,” said Frias. “They established a core that younger players could look up to.” Their example will resonate in the locker room long after graduation.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Armijo Soccer
With strong development across the board—particularly among freshmen and sophomores—and the return of battle-tested juniors who will become next year’s leaders, Coach Frias sees a perfect blend of youth and experience forming.
“They’ve been playing together for a while,” he said. “I’m excited about the commitment they bring.” That chemistry, combined with skill and work ethic, positions Armijo to take a significant step forward next season.
Coach’s Growth Mindset: Leading by Learning
While many coaches focus solely on player development, Frias holds himself to the same standard. “Me as a coach, I’m looking to improve in multiple aspects,” he admitted. “I always have much to learn.” He’s dedicating his offseason to studying tactical analysis and decision-making—tools that will undoubtedly elevate his impact on the program.
This mindset not only benefits the team tactically, but also models the importance of continuous learning, an example his players can follow both on and off the field.
Where to Follow the Program
For those looking to explore stats and player performances from the 2025 season, team data is available on MaxPreps.com. The site offers detailed breakdowns of goals, assists, and match outcomes for fans, families, and future scouts.
Final Reflection
While the 2025 season may not have ended with a playoff run, Armijo Boys Soccer walked off the pitch with heads held high. They built a culture grounded in chemistry, grit, and unselfish play. Veteran leaders like Aguilar, Hernandez, and Perez laid the groundwork, while rising stars like Becerra and Sanchez are poised to take the program to new heights.
Coach Frias and his squad have more than just potential—they have purpose. And as they enter the offseason hungry to improve, there’s every reason to believe that Armijo Soccer is just getting started.
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