CHHS boys soccer team focuses on division win, state title

The Center Hill boys soccer team is chasing a state championship.

“We have an expectation to win the state championship in 5A and continue to win titles,” head coach Andrew Yeoman said. “We have two straight division titles and are going for a third.”

The players are also feeling good about the season and their 6-1-1 record.

“I am very optimistic about how it will go,” said junior Diego Valenzuela, who scored a goal in the 4-0 win against Lafayette and has had several assists so far this year.

Center back Dylan Riley shares Valenzuela’s optimism, especially after the team’s 4-0 defeat of Caledonia.

“I think one best game we have played so far was the game against a really good Caledonia team,” Riley said, adding that the Mustangs are looking for respect. “We feel like we have a lot to prove to other teams that doubt us.”

Junior Ashton Taylor, who is responsible for 11 goals so far this season, is confident the team will succeed.

“From my perspective as a team captain, I believe our team is a very good team this year and that we have put in the work on and off the field,” Taylor said. “Our team is focused on the main goal this year, the state championship. I believe our team will accomplish this goal by staying humble, staying focused, and staying mentally prepared for every obstacle that comes our way. One thing this team faces most is adversity, and our team is very good at overcoming that adversity. If we stay on top of our game, and accomplish our goals, then we will be successful.”

Staff writer Candice Buford contributed to this story.