IN RECENT YEARS, MACARTHUR HAS EMERGED AS A LEGITIMATE CONTENDER IN TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER.
Their successes can be chalked up to compelling coaching, as well as a palpable chemistry among the roster that is upheld by the team captains.
Last season’s run, which included an undefeated district championship and a trip to the Regional Quarterfinals, saw the Generals’ GK Ricardo Cerda step up in a major way. He earned all-state honors in addition to being named one of this year’s captains.
Ironically, the MacArthur senior wasn’t always in goal.
“I started playing when I was four years old, but I was actually a striker to begin with,” said Cerda. “But, when I was eight, our goalie didn’t end up going to the game so I decided to give it a try. Ever since then, I’ve loved it. People might call me crazy for it, but I love the position.”
Being a keeper is one of the more stressful positions in the game. There’s nothing sweeter as a keeper than when a stellar save is made. Conversely, allowing a shot to hit the back of the net can be equally disheartening.
So, how does Cerda deal with that rollercoaster of emotions in the net?
“I won’t say that I don’t care when the opponent scores, but
I just try to not let it go to my head,” he said. “I just continue playing my game and maintain my focus throughout the contest. At the end of the day, just have fun. You can’t lose that mentality, and there will always be teammates to cover for you and support you.”
Chemistry is key on the pitch, which is what Cerda attributes his rapid progression as a player.
“Most of my personal growth and development has come from my teammates,” Cerda said. “The upperclassmen last year, they taught me a lot, especially from the previous captains. They taught me everything I know about being a leader and how to keep improving myself.”
Soccer can be a year-round gig for some, considering many players often play on club teams as well. So, what does Cerda do to take the edge off?
“I love to travel and I love to hike, especially,” he said. “The best place I’ve hiked was probably in Colorado. It was kind of difficult because of the altitude and snow, but I’m always up for a challenge.”
Given that this is his final season with MacArthur, before potentially playing in college, the Generals’ keeper has one goal in mind.
“I want to leave my team, winning,” said Cerda. “I want us to continue pushing on into the playoffs and hopefully advance past the Regional Finals. In the third round, I want that game against The Woodlands again, since we’ve had some close losses to them the last two years. That would be a really nice send-off.”
Cerda said he likes to travel. If this team is anything like it was last Winter, Big Mac soccer might just be going on a trip to the State Championship come April.