As the 2023 California community college soccer season passes the halfway mark, San Bernardino Valley College’s men’s and women’s teams have faced stiff tests but shown resilience and skill. While challenging opponents await, both Wolverines squads appear primed to finish strong down the final stretch this fall.
On the men’s pitch, the Wolverines have faced a daunting schedule filled with top opponents to start the 2023 season. Despite the challenges, SBVC has showcased skills in the early stages of the season. Early draws against always-tough Cypress and Antelope Valley, demonstrated the team's focus and composure. Big wins over East LA, Rio Hondo, and Cuyamaca behind striker Christian Hernandez's offensive explosion proved SBVC has firepower.
Key strikers Juan Bonola and Christian Hernandez have spearheaded the undefeated team's offensive attack. The talented duo have consistently put points on the board, with Hernandez netting 6 goals already. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Adrian Munoz has been a steady force in the net, coming up with clutch saves in key moments to secure wins.
So far, the SBVC men's team has been unbeatable, sitting undefeated with an impressive overall record. The group has proven they have the talent and determination to compete with any opponent. Recent victories over talented foes have moved the Wolverines into pole position as they eye the postseason. Head coach Josh Brown has his veteran squad playing cohesively and motivated. With significant games still ahead, the undefeated men's team remains confident as they push for a league title.
After the hot start, the Wolverines hit a midseason skid against the likes of Mt. SAC, Long Beach, and Pasadena City in October. Josh believes his team led by forwards Juan and Christian has the experience and grit needed to finish strong. The ingredients appear there for this men’s squad to coalesce and make noise down the stretch.
While the men's team is undefeated, the Lady Wolverines have faced early adversity against a formidable schedule to begin the 2023 campaign. The women's side has battled through challenging matches as a young squad under head coach Jenna Lefay.
SBVC took its lumps early, suffering difficult losses in three out of five contests so far. A lopsided 6-0 defeat against perennial powerhouse Santiago Canyon in the season opener showed the work needed to compete with top-tier teams. However, A tight 1-1 draw against Citrus last Friday, provided Lefay evidence of the team's growth.
Despite tough losses, they did manage an impressive 12-0 victory over San Diego City powered by standout performances from Alondra Ruiz and Makenzie Gilmore.
With few chances left, SBVC Women’s’ is primed for a playoff push. Lefay believes in her team and feels the team’s depth is an asset. While improvement remains, the Lady Wolverines’ commitment has them on an upward trajectory at the perfect time. As fall wanes, SBVC soccer continues showing heart and progress. With the postseason looming, both Wolverines teams seem ready to finish their 2023 campaigns strong.
The SBVC men's side has an undefeated record so far behind its tenacious defense and striker duo Juan Bonola and Christian Hernandez. Goalkeeper Adrian Munoz has been a key contributor as well with clutch saves.
The women's team has gone through some growing pains but has shown resilience and improvement.
While challenges remain, both teams expect to be battle-tested for the postseason. SBVC soccer has its sights set on peaking at the perfect time.