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Alief Taylor's Emily Chavez (Sr. GK)
RISING TO THE OCCASION: Chavez maintains composure in a revitalized ATHS program
Being a keeper naturally comes with intense pressure and responsibility, and Chavez has shown a steady aptitude for both.
When speaking with her, Chavez discusses how she approaches her role and maintains focus through the changes that Taylor hopes to bring about on the field – giving a glimpse into the mindset that has made her such a dependable figure for ATHS.
Matt Powell (VYPE)
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VYPE: When did you first start playing soccer? Who or what got you involved, and what motivates you to compete?
CHAVEZ: “I was six years old when I initially got into soccer. It wasn’t long after that when I began to really understand that it was the game for me. From there, I became the goalie and I’ve just loved being in that spot since.”
VYPE: That’s a tough spot to be in, right? I say that from experience.
CHAVEZ: “Definitely. There’s plenty of pressure on a keeper during games. But, you learn how to respond to those situations and find ways to love those moments, then it gets easier.”
VYPE: What goes through your mind when you’re faced with that kind of challenge?
CHAVEZ: “I focus on the end – the way we can eventually win or what we can accomplish in the next game. You’ve got to stay positive and look on the bright side at times.”
VYPE: How has it been for you and the team to start working with a new coach? What’s been the impression so far?
CHAVEZ: “Meeting Coach (El-Bjeirmi) for the first time, I think we could all see that she brought a good vibe. We have more confidence going into the season, and there’s a better sense of how we can match up against teams in the district and go farther.”
Some of the stars of 2025-26 Alief Taylor Girls SoccerMatt Powell (VYPE)
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Alief Taylor's Sean Kongolo (Sr. G)
NEXT IN LINE: The latest Kongolo sibling etching his story into Alief Taylor Hoops
Brothers, Nick (Jr. F) & Sean KongoloMatt Powell (VYPE)
Last year, Kongolo led Taylor in both scoring and distribution, compiling over 250 points, 77 assists, and 40 steals. Despite a 10–21 finish that left the Lions just short of the postseason, there were clear signs of growth for a roster that leaned heavily on youth. Head coach Frank Castanon believes that experience will pay dividends as the team looks to turn a corner this season.
In Sean’s case, much of that steady progression has been guided by those closest to him.
“He [Nathan] showed me the commitment and work ethic that’s needed to reach that next level,” Kongolo said. “Playing hard in front of a crowd comes from the workouts and practices that take place when no one is watching. That’s the biggest thing I took from him.”
That same accountability extends to his bond with Nick, as the brothers prepare to share the court again.
“There’s a built-in connection between the two of us,” he said. “When we’re at games, if one of us is playing down, it’s a little easier to talk about it and address how to fix it. We’ve played together for years, so that helps us both get better where we need to.”
Kongolo’s improvement has also come from refining his own craft.
Matt Powell (VYPE)
“Accuracy has been something that I’ve worked to make more consistent in my shooting ability,” he said. “That just comes with repetition and situational awareness that you learn from practice.”
Looking ahead, Kongolo has his eyes on the next level.
“Of course, I’m planning to go to college either way, but the intention is to get a scholarship to play ball at that stage,” he said. “If I can keep my foot on the gas, then I’m hoping to get a commitment soon.”
And as Taylor’s new campaign tips off, it’s clear that the Lions’ resurgence — much like the Kongolo story itself — is still being written, one drive and one jump shot at a time.