At McClatchy High School, soccer is about more than just results—it's about family, growth, and pride in wearing the school colors. Under the guidance of Head Coach Izzy Ramirez, the 2024–25 season brought a new chapter to the Lions' legacy, filled with resilience, unity, and unforgettable moments.
Team-Centered Success
Coach Ramirez emphasizes that every player contributes to the program’s identity and success. “There is no ‘I’ in team,” he said. Each athlete on the varsity roster is held to a standard of effort, hunger, and mutual motivation. This team-first mentality defines McClatchy soccer.
Season Reflections
While every season is different, Coach Ramirez sees every one as a success because of the opportunity student-athletes have to represent their school with pride. Senior Day stood out as a major highlight, as the program honored its outgoing players with heartfelt celebrations. But every training session and match was a highlight in its own right—a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as Coach Ramirez puts it.
Defining Moments
This year’s defining moment came during the Summerhays Del Campo Soccer Tournament in a heated match against rival John F. Kennedy High School. Despite JFK ultimately becoming Metro League Champions, McClatchy’s tournament victory was a proud moment that showcased the team's competitiveness and heart.
Off the field, the team faced real-life challenges. Coach Ramirez commended his players for their perseverance and commitment despite personal struggles. Their ability to show up and compete with intensity speaks volumes about their character.
Player Development
Several players stepped up in meaningful ways:
Christopher Cortez and Alphonse Ramirez, both juniors, matured as players and leaders by facing personal adversity head-on.
Ethan Roach and Constantine Ochoa have grown tremendously in their three years with the program and are ready to take on key roles next season.
The senior captains—Jacob Wehling, Manuel Sanders, Xavier Balderas, Phabian Reyes, and Joseph Gray—led by example. Their leadership and motivation left a lasting legacy.
As Coach Ramirez said before each match, these young men “stand on business.”
Overcoming Adversity
Injuries, losses, and pressure situations are part of the game, but the Lions handled each with poise. “No matter what challenges come our way, we figured it out as a team,” said Ramirez. Opponents always bring their best against McClatchy because of the program’s reputation, but the Lions thrive under that pressure.
A Farewell to Seniors
This year’s senior class brought energy, intensity, and heart. Saying goodbye is never easy, but their impact will be felt long after they’ve walked McClatchy’s hallways one last time. “We will always miss our seniors,” said Coach Ramirez.
Looking Ahead
The future looks bright. With a committed core of underclassmen, including talent from the JV and freshman squads, excitement is already building for next season. “Every year is exciting at McClatchy,” Ramirez noted. A challenging schedule and motivated players promise another competitive season—and potentially a deep playoff run.
Offseason Goals
Improving both on the pitch and in the classroom remains a top priority. The Lions are focused on refining their style of play, enhancing off-ball movement, and building on their identity. As Kobe Bryant once said, “Get better every single day.” That mindset defines McClatchy soccer.
Follow the Program
You can find McClatchy’s stats and match results on MaxPreps by searching for McClatchy High School Boys Soccer.
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