LASARA — Nestled within the confines of Willacy County is Lasara, a town with a population just over 1,000.

The town’s school is made up of just 101 students, with elementary and high school sharing the same building.

Despite its small-town status, Lasara has become a hot bed for college signings, with numerous athletes moving on to the next level.

From current UTRGV mid-distance runner Selissa Gonzales (2018-22) to former University of Arlington thrower Tres Rodriguez (2016-2020), the Lions have had their fair share of collegiate athletes.

Add senior thrower Xiomara Rodriguez to the bunch, as the three-time Class 1A discus state champion officially signed her National Letter of Intent to Lamar University during a ceremony Wednesday at the Lasara ISD Sports Complex.

Lamar University is an NCAA Division I university located in Beaumont that competes in the Southland Conference.

“It means a lot being a Division I athlete coming out of Lasara,” said Rodriguez, who is the younger sister of Tres. “I hope to inspire the little ones to commit their sports and try and go DI or DII or wherever they want to go. It just feels amazing.”

Rodriguez splashed onto the high school throwing scene as a freshman, qualifying for the UIL state track and field championships in the Class 1A discus and shot put during her first varsity season.

A silver medal at state in the discus set the tone for what would be one of the most decorated careers in RGV history for Rodriguez.

One year after capturing silver, the Lions’ thrower returned to state in the discus, winning her first state title in the event.

She followed it up with another stellar showing as a junior, qualifying for state in both events once again. At state she went back-to-back in the discus and added a bronze in the shot put, her first state medal in the event.

Rodriguez saved her best meet for the final one of her high school career, setting personal bests in both events at this year’s state meet en route to a sweep of the gold medals in Class 1A throwing events.

“That was the favorite moment of my career, ending it as a double champion,” Rodriguez said. “It meant a lot to me because it had been a goal since my freshman year when I won my first medal. Overall, it was just amazing being a part of this track program. Just being developed into the athlete I am today by coaches and teachers who helped with the process, it feels good.

Rodriguez finished her high school career as a six-time UIL state medalist, the most of any RGV athlete during the past four years.

During that span, the Lions’ thrower won three straight Class 1A discus state titles (2022-2024), one Class 1A state shot (2024), a silver in the discus (2021) and a bronze in the shot put (2023).

The best is yet to come for Rodriguez, however, as she eyes making the same kind of splash at the collegiate level next fall.

“It is a little nerve-wracking for me,” Rodriguez said. “I’m going to go to the next level and compete against all these older kids who have more experience than I do. Overall, though, I know my coach will get me to where I want to be and hopefully to a couple of titles. My goal now is to reach the podium by the end of the year. If not, then hopefully finish top eight or top 10 by the end of my freshman year.”

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CORPUS CHRISTI — Three different Weslaco High players hit home runs as the Panthers blasted past the San Antonio Brennan Bears 16-3 during Game 1 of a best-of-3 Region IV-6A final series Thursday at Cabaniss Softball Field in Corpus Christi.

The victory moves Weslaco High within one game of a return to the state tournament for the first time since 2016.

“I thought our girls did well,” Weslaco High head coach Mario Rodriguez said. “We took advantage of the situation and the opportunities that were presented to us. I’m proud of the way the girls went up there and put up some quality at bats. It was just a good game.”

The Panthers wasted no time setting the tone for the contest, with Clarissa Mejia driving home three runs with a bomb to center field to make it 3-0 early in the first inning.

Weslaco High wasn’t done yet, adding another five runs to take a commanding 8-0 lead through the top of the first.

“We were just trying to get our quality at bats in,” Rodriguez said. “I didn’t expect for us to score that much in the first inning, but we took advantage of the opportunity presented and I’m proud of the girls for that.”

The hits kept coming for the Panthers over the next five innings, scoring in every run except the third following the dominant start.

A solo home run by first baseman Elizabeth Craig during the top of the fourth put Weslaco High up 10-3, with Andrea Ortiz driving in another run to put the Panthers in position to run rule their opponent.

Weslaco High did just that, with Ortiz driving in two more runs during the fifth, followed by a three-run bomb by Ema Galvan moments later to seal the victory.

The Panthers will look to close out the series at 6 p.m. tomorrow at Cabaniss Softball Field in Corpus Christi. Game 3 of the series is set for 11 a.m. Saturday if needed.

“I think all that experience our girls have acquired from their freshman year to now, they’ve used it,” Rodriguez said. “Our seniors have been around for a while and played in some big games and I think it has paid off for us. But one game does not carry over into the next one. We always talk about that. Our job right now is about what we do from right now until we come back onto that field tomorrow. That is going to determine how ready we are for this next game.”

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EDITOR’S NOTE: The RGVSports.com All-Valley teams consists of athletes from across the entire Rio Grande Valley as voted by our staff members with input from coaches and other officials. 

RGVSports.com All-Valley Teams

First Team

Goalkeeper – Adrian Alvarez, Edinburg North

Defenders – Kenneth Reyes, Edinburg North; Adrian Longoria, Brownsville Rivera; Ricardo Leal, Brownsville Porter

Midfielders – Ramon “Chacho” Zuniga, Brownsville Lopez; Melvin Gomez, Donna North; Pedro Villanueva, Brownsville Rivera

Forwards – Diego Guerra, Brownsville Lopez; Omar Solis, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Martin Gonzalez, Brownsville Porter

Utility – Joshua Perez, Progreso

Second Team

Goalkeeper – Juan Zapata, Harlingen High

Defenders – Erick Gonzalez, Edinburg North; Cesar Meza, Progreso; Roman Vera, Brownsville Rivera

Midfielders – Randy Galvan, Edinburg Economedes; Manuel Medina, Brownsville Rivera; Diego Macias, Progreso; Rafael Ramos, Brownsville Hanna

Forwards –Diego Saldana, Brownsville St. Joseph, Jacob Ocanas, PSJA North; Hector Veliz, Sharyland Pioneer

Utility – Diego Pina, PSJA Memorial

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RGV Boys Soccer 2024 All-District Lists

District 31-6A

Most Valuable Player: Kenneth Reyes, Edinburg North

Offensive Player of the Year: Randy Galvan, Edinburg Economedes

Tri-Defensive Players of the Year: Erick Gonzalez, Edinburg North; Juan Lugo, Edinburg Economedes; Thom Torres, La Joya High

Goalkeeper of the Year: Adrian Alvarez, Edinburg North

Utility Player of the Year: Romeo Morfin, Mission High

Newcomer of the Year: Ezra Perez, PSJA High

Leading Scorer of the Year: Jesus Martinez, Edinburg North

Co-Coaches of the Year: Elias Moran, Edinburg North; Christos Barouhas, Mission High

First Team

Goalkeepers – Kevin Aguilar, Edinburg High; Emanuel Ruiz, Edinburg Economedes

Defenders – Fernando Dominguez, Edinburg High; Robert Hernandez, Edinburg Economedes; Luis Esparza, PSJA High; Elias Correa, Edinburg North; Leonardo Garza, La Joya High

Midfielders – Bryan Garcia, Edinburg Economedes; Jacob Roman, Edinburg North; Duilio Luevano, Edinburg High; Luis Rodrguez, PSJA High

Forwards – Jonathan Trevino, Edinburg North; Armando Del Angel, Edinburg Economedes; Angel Leal, PSJA High; Marcos Gonzalez, Edinburg High; Jose Borrego, La Joya High

Second Team

Goalkeepers – Andy Delgado, La Joya High; David Rodriguez, Mission High; Juan Jimenez, PSJA High

Defenders – Cesar Tovar, Edinburg High; Jesus Neri, Mission High; Jose Nino, Edinburg North; Jonathan Llamas, Edinburg Economedes; Henry Santos, Mission High; Javier Moreno, La Joya High

Midfielders – Jorge Villanueva, Mission High; Mauricio Lopez, La Joya High; Gio Villarreal, Edinburg High; Jose Villarreal, Edinburg Economedes; Matthew Mejia, Edinburg North; Osvaldo Mejia, La Joya High

Forwards – Jayden Moncivais, Edinburg High; Brandon Saenz, Edinburg North; Brandon Soliz, Mission High; Brandon Sauceda, La Joya High

Honorable Mention

Goalkeeper – Joel Arellano, PSJA High

Defenders – Diego Tavarez, PSJA High; Jose Rebolloso, PSJA High; Eduardo Leal, Edinburg Economedes; Luis Garcia, La Joya High; Ricardo Lopez, La Joya High

Midfielders – Jonathan Jauregui, Edinburg North; Brandon Torres, Mission High; Sebastian Quintana, La Joya High; Miguel Vargas, PSJA High; Angel Vazquez, Edinburg North; Gael Alvarado, PSJA High; Gerardo Llamas, Edinburg Economedes

Forwards – Juan Carlos Rios, Edinburg Economedes; Jonathan Reynaga, Mission High; Omar Garcia, Mission High; Chris Molina, Mission High; Brandon Flores, La Joya High; Cesar Rocha, PSJA High

 

District 32-6A

Most Valuable Player: Pedro Villanueva, Brownsville Rivera

Co-Offensive Players of the Year: Rafael Ramos, Brownsville Hanna; Manuel Medina, Brownsville Rivera

Defensive Player of the Year: Gabriel Velez, Harlingen High

Goalkeeper of the Year: Juan Zapata, Harlingen High

Utility Player of the Year: Jose Caballero, Brownsville Rivera

Newcomer of the Year: Francisco Barrientos, San Benito

First Team

Goalkeepers – Nestor Estrada, Brownsville Rivera; Jose “Nico” Moreno, Los Fresnos.

Defenders – Adrian Longoria, Brownsville Rivera; Roman Vera, Brownsville Rivera; Myles Lerma, Harlingen High; Alan Oviedo, Los Fresnos; Isaiah Nino, Los Fresnos; Cristofer Casanova, San Benito; Carlos Coy, San Benito; Santiago Hernandez, Brownsville Hanna; Vicente Tamayo, Los Fresnos

Midfielders – Jorge Castro, Brownsville Rivera; Gael Zuniga, Harlingen High; Ethan Nolasco, Los Fresnos, Jiovanny Najera, San Benito; Chris Cantu, Harlingen High; Jerry Martinez, Harlingen High; Herbert Iracheta, Brownsville Hanna; Miguel Alvarez, Los Fresnos.

Forwards – Sergio Gomez, Brownsville Hanna; Adrian Prado, Brownsville Rivera; Jeremiah Tome, Harlingen High; JP Izaguirre, Los Fresnos; Carlos Garcia, Harlingen High.

Second Team

Goalkeepers – Ricardo Zuniga, Weslaco High; Pedro Padron, San Benito.

Defenders – Justin Medrano, Brownsville Hanna; Ian Quinones, Harlingen High; Edward Chaverry, San Benito; Manny Silva, Los Fresnos; Danny Suarez, Brownsville Rivera; Ethan Hamby, Harlingen High; Enrique Gallegos, San Benito; Carlos Garcia, Weslaco High; Ayden Moralez, Weslaco High; Hector Lopez, Brownsville Rivera.

Midfielders – Yair Espinoza, Brownsville Rivera; Nereo Nunez, Harlingen High; Javier Rodriguez, Los Fresnos; Julian Betancourt, Weslaco High; Alexis Morales, San Benito; Aiden Lopez, Los Fresnos; Brandon Vargas, Weslaco High.

Forwards – JJ Contreras, Los Fresnos; Josh Trejo, Los Fresnos; Isai Colunga, Brownsville Rivera; Baltazar Guajardo, Brownsville Hanna.

Honorable Mention

Goalkeepers – Abraham Flores, Brownsville Hanna; Tomas Sanchez, Brownsville Rivera; Francisco Garcia, San Benito; Jesus Flores, Los Fresnos.

Defenders – Diego Martinez, San Benito; Elias Olvera, San Benito; Manny Silva, Los Fresnos; Gustavo Rodriguez Bocanegra, Weslaco High; Alan Anguiano, Weslaco High.

Midfielders – Herbert Iracheta, Brownsville Hanna; Jeu Hernandez, Brownsville Rivera; Hairo Zavala, Brownsville Rivera; Jose Cardenas, Brownsville Rivera; Luis Olivas, San Benio; Antwoan Alegria, San Benito; Cristofer Casanova, San Benito; Angel Sanchez, Harlingen High; Isaiah Nunez, Harlingen High; Jorge Garcia, Los Fresnos; Christopher Contreras, Los Fresnos; Alex Vatchev, Los Fresnos; Abraham Andrade, Weslaco High.

Forwards – Francisco Barrientos, San Benito; Jordan Rodriguez, San Benito; Randy Morales, Harlingen High; Derek Esqueda, Harlingen High; Alexis Escobendo, Los Fresnos.

 

District 30-5A

Most Valuable Player: Omar Solis, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln

Offensive Player of the Year: Jose A. Garcia, Roma

Defensive Player of the Year: Jovanny Martinez, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln

Utility Player of the Year: Edgar Hernandez, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln

Goalkeeper of the Year: Angel Colunga, Laredo Martin

Newcomer of the Year: Vidal Villanueva, La Joya Palmview

First Team

Ruben Tijerina, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Christian Tomas, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Charlie Montelongo, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Eduardo Ramos, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Jairo Bermudes, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Aaron Andrade, Laredo Nixon; Alejandro Casillas, Laredo Nixon; Lorenzo Zamora, Laredo Nixon; Chris Perez, Laredo Nixon; Manuel Rubalcava, Laredo Martin; Alejandro Barcenas, Laredo Martin; Juan Badillo, Laredo Martin; Fabian Hinojosa, La Joya Palmview; Ruben Davila, La Joya Palmview; Greco Dimas, La Joya Palmview; Omar Garcia, Roma; Franky Paz, Roma; Valentin Diaz, Roma; Diego Tostado, Mission Veterans, Victor Lucio, Mission Veterans; Gerardo Estrada, Rio Grande City; Jose Maldonado, Rio Grande City; Pedro Zapata, Laredo Cigarroa; Alvaro Ruiz, Laredo Cigarroa

Second Team

Steven Hernandez, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Cristo Torres, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Gilbert Rodriguez, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Ever Mares, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Alan Pompa, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Tadeo Gasca, Laredo Nixon; Max Casillas, Laredo Nixon; Amador Hinojosa, Laredo Nixon; Jesus Rivera, Laredo Nixon; Leonardo Martinez, Laredo Martin; Bryan Herrera, Laredo Martin; Christopher Ibarra, Laredo Martin; Sebastian Rios, La Joya Palmview; Fabian Montalvo, La Joya Palmview; Hector Garcia, La Joya Palmview; Alan Garcia, Roma; Mario Garcia, Roma; Oscar Tamez, Roma; Isaiah Gaytan, Mission Veterans; Alexis Anguiano, Mission Veterans; Gilberto Garcia, Rio Grande City; Dylan Salinas, Rio Grande City; Emmanuel Torres, Laredo Cigarroa; Esteban Granados, Laredo Cigarroa

Honorable Mention

Jose Quintanilla, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Emmanuel Martinez, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Fredy Oviedo, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Jair Duran, Laredo Nixon; Anjel Rivera, Laredo Nixon; Aaron Perez, Laredo Nixon; Santiago Martinez, Laredo Nixon; Roger Maradiaga, Laredo Martin; Anthony Cisneros, Laredo Martin; Victor Quintero, Laredo Martin; Christopher Nino, La Joya Palmview; Alejandro Vincent, La Joya Palmview; Julian Barbosa, La Joya Palmview; Erik Acosta, Roma; Axel Robledo, Roma; Santiago Gonzalez, Roma; Abel Lucio, Mission Veterans; Diego Zuniga, Mission Veterans; Jared Velazquez, Laredo Cigarroa; Jose Martinez, Laredo Cigarroa

 

District 31-5A

Co-Coaches of the Year: Jorge Guerra, Sharyland High; Javier Gonzalez, PSJA Memorial

MVP: Diego Pina, PSJA Memorial

Offensive Player of the Year: Jacob Ocanas, PSJA North

Co-Defensive Players of the Year: Inaki Cruz, Sharyland High; Santos Gonzalez, Sharyland Pioneer

Utility Player of the Year: Furkan Coban, Sharyland High

Newcomer of the Year: Hector Veliz, Sharyland Pioneer

Goalkeeper of the Year: Omar Garcia, PSJA Memorial

First Team

Iker Urueta, Sharyland High, Juan Pablo Trevino, Sharyland High; Francisco Gomez, Sharyland High; Nicolas Trevino, Sharyland High; Roberto Santos, Sharyland High; Mario Gomez, PSJA Memorial; Julio Cardenas, PSJA Memorial; Jony Macias, PSJA Memorial; Eleazar Garcia, PSJA Memorial; Heliodoro Pina, PSJA North; Yahir Cruz, PSJA North; Diego Maldonado, PSJA North; Jonathan Vela, Sharyland Pioneer; Jared Arevalo, Sharyland Pioneer, Shawn Dinger, Sharyland Pioneer; Michael Bowen, McAllen High; Alan Martinez, McAllen High; Leo Mendoza, McAllen High; Jesus Bracho, McAllen Rowe; Jose Cordova, McAllen Rowe; Peter Galvan, PSJA Southwest; Addin Vela, PSJA Southwest; Emiliano Villegas, Valley View; Irvin Castro, Edinburg Vela

Second Team

Allan Velazquez, Sharyland High, Luis Chavez, Sharyland High, Rodolfo Ramirez, Sharyland High; Eliab Alvarez, Sharyland High; Luis Tellez, Sharyland High; Eleazar Yoc, PSJA Memorial; Rolando Maldonado, PSJA Memorial; Emiliano Montes, PSJA Memorial; Homero Gonzalez, PSJA Memorial; Gael Lucero, PSJA North; Adan Salinas, PSJA North; Christian Mena, PSJA North; Diego Lopez, Sharyland Pioneer; Jose Garcia, Sharyland Pioneer; Abraham Daijala, Sharyland Pioneer; Max Alvarez, McAllen High; Bryan Acosta, McAllen High; Julio Duran, McAllen High; Rohan Cisneros, McAllen Rowe; Dario Gil, McAllen Rowe; Angel Ponce, McAllen Memorial; Dominic Poccirillo, McAllen Memorial; Luis Gonzalez, PSJA Southwest; Javier Gonzalez, PSJA Southwest; Pedro Yanez, Valley View; Luis Garcia, Edinburg Vela

Honorable Mention

Luis Garza, Sharyland High; Takumi Meza; Sharyland High; Gonzalo Guzman, Sharyland High; David Rico, Sharyland High; Joe Pardo, PSJA Memorial; Daniel Silva, PSJA Memorial; David De Leon, PSJA Memorial; Luis Quintanilla, PSJA Memorial; Jonathan Alvarado, PSJA North; Diego Hernandez, PSJA North; Alexander Medrano, PSJA North; Angel Garcia, PSJA North; Alejandro Rios, Sharyland Pioneer; Preston Vallejo, Sharyland Pioneer; Maximiliano Castillo, Sharyland Pioneer; Daniel Vela, Sharyland Pioneer; Gael Rodriguez, McAllen High, Angel Arguelles, McAllen High; Ricardo Bermudez, McAllen High; Irvin Garcia, McAllen High; Gael Rocha, McAllen Rowe; Isai Guevara, McAllen Rowe; Jose Rene Martinez, McAllen Rowe; Eder Cabrera, McAllen Rowe; Omar Davila, McAllen Memorial; Luis Cruz, McAllen Memorial; Diego Camacho, McAllen Memorial; Alexis Hinojosa, McAllen Memorial; Uriel Arteaga, PSJA Southwest; Diego De Leon, PSJA Southwest; Diego Guerra, PSJA Southwest; Rodolfo Larios, PSJA Southwest; Diego Vera, Valley View; Juan Valdez, Valley View; Victor Villasenor, Valley View; Emiliano Martinez, Valley View; Jesus Anaya, Edinburg Vela; Ethan De Leon, Edinburg Vela; Jayeth Lopez, Edinburg Vela; Jacob Warkentine, Edinburg Vela

 

District 32-5A

Co-Coaches of the Year: Amadeo Escandon, Brownsville Lopez; Jose Espitia, Brownsville Porter

Player of the Year: Martin Gonzalez, Brownsville Porter

All-District MVP: Diego Guerra, Brownsville Lopez

Offensive Player of the Year: Ramon “Chacho” Zuniga, Brownsville Lopez

Defensive Player of the Year: Ricardo Leal, Brownsville Porter

Newcomer of the Year: Enrique Torres, Donna North

Co-Utility Players of the Year: Emilo Longoria, Brownsville Veterans; Melvin Gomez, Donna North

Goalkeeper of the Year: Bryan Cobos, Brownsville Veterans

First Team

Adolfo Segura, Brownsville Porter; Kleber Hernandez, Brownsville Porter; Alexander Castillo, Brownsville Porter; Raul Perez, Brownsville Porter; Arturo Ramon, Brownsville Porter; Jacob Villarreal, Donna North; Christopher De Leon, Donna North; Jonathan May-Nieves, Donna North; Liam O’Connell, Brownsville Veterans; Roman Reyna, Brownsville Veterans; Maximilliano Cordoba, Brownsville Veterans; Geovani Chavez, Brownsville Pace; Jose Marin, Brownsville Pace; Luis Conde, Donna High; Juan Nieto, Donna High; Gabino Sanchez, Harlingen South; Hugo Villafranca, Harlingen South; Otoniel Perez, Edcouch-Elsa; Mauricio Chavez, Edcouch-Elsa.

Second Team

Osvaldo Ramos, Brownsville Porter; Sizu Aguillon, Brownsville Porter; Kevin Segura, Brownsville Porter; Heriberto del Angel, Brownsville Porter; Bryan Esquivel, Brownsville Porter; Jassiel Castro, Donna North; Edson Balderas, Donna North; Antwan Bazaldua, Donna North; Ruben Sosa, Brownsville Veterans; Pablo Sosa, Brownsville Veterans; Andres Gutierrez, Brownsville Veterans; Jacob Pardo, Brownsville Pace; Ricardo Martinez, Brownsville Pace; Isaiah Gaona, Donna High; Jurguen Arellano, Donna High; Jair Nava, Harlingen South; Giancarlo Garza, Harlingen South; Jayreed Amaya, Edcouch-Elsa; Emilio Flores, Edcouch-Elsa.

Honorable Mention

Gerardo Herrera, Brownsville Porter; Pavel Barrera, Brownsville Porter; Richard Martinez, Donna North; Isaac Martinez, Donna North; Luis Villanueva, Brownsville Veterans; Raul Cardenas, Brownsville Veterans; Ismael Flores, Brownsville Pace; Felipe Reyes, Brownsville Pace; Bryan Morales, Donna High; Luis Reyes, Donna High; Jeziel Ovalle, Harlingen South; Olek Lerma, Harlingen South; Leonel Saenz, Edcouch-Elsa; Gabriel Avila, Edcouch-Elsa.

 

District 30-4A

Most Valuable Player: Ian Cerecedo, Hidalgo

Most Valuable Defensive Player: Pablo Almeida, Hidalgo

Goalkeeper of the Year: Gael Carrasco, Hidalgo

Co-Newcomers of the Year: Luis Ibarra, IDEA North Mission; Jorge Salinas, Vanguard Beethoven

Coach of the Year: Esteban Alegria, Hidalgo

First Team

Goalkeeper – Diego Salinas, Vanguard Beethoven

Defenders – Jesus Mauricio, Vanguard Beethoven; Luis Salinas, IDEA North Mission; Jose Perez, Vanguard Mozart; Anthony Nava, Hidalgo; Sergio Favela, Hidalgo

Midfielders – Gabe Prudente, Vanguard Beethoven; Alfonso Herrera, IDEA Pharr; Eder Hernandez, Hidalgo; Diego Garcia, IDEA North Mission; Aaron Jimenez, Santa Maria

Forwards – Diego Torres, Hidalgo; Alexavier Longoria, Vanguard Beethoven; Justin Nazariega, IDEA North Mission; Levi Fonseca, Vanguard Mozart; Manny Lugo, Santa Maria

Second Team

Goalkeeper – Anthony Martinez, Santa Maria

Defenders – Roberto Rios, Santa Maria; Alan Espinoza, Hidalgo; Jacob Garcia, IDEA Pharr; Diego Rivera, IDEA North Mission; Leo Garcia, Vanguard Beethoven

Midfielders – Jesus Gonzalez, IDEA Pharr; Eliud Mata, Vanguard Beethoven; Miguel Guerrero; Vanguard Mozart; Alex Ramirez, Santa Maria

Forwards – Eric Montoya, Hidalgo; Javier Castro, IDEA Pharr; Armando Cruz, IDEA North Mission; Emilio Salazar, Vanguard Beethoven

Honorable Mention

Goalkeepers – Nicolas Gutierrez, IDEA North Mission; Israel Zamora, Vanguard Mozart; Luis Alexander Hernandez, Hidalgo; Osvel Perez, Hidalgo; Luis Acosta, IDEA Pharr

Defenders – Tim Garcia, Vanguard Rembrandt; Santiago Urbina, Vanguard Rembrandt; Derek Carrillo, IDEA Pharr; Fernando Gonzalez, IDEA Pharr; Angel Lopez, IDEA North Mission; Raylee Solis, Vanguard Beethoven; Mario Garcia, Vanguard Beethoven; Fabio Nino, Zapata; Danny Villafuerte, Zapata; Angel Garcia, Zapata; Brando Rivera, Zapata; Luis Diaz, Grulla; Julio Garcia, Grulla; Angel Lara, Santa Maria; Roberto Leos, Santa Maria; Brian Hernandez, Santa Maria; Angel Gonzalez, Hidalgo

Midfielders – Erik Tejeda, Vanguard Rembrandt; Omar Perez, Vanguard Rembrandt; Matthew Reyes, Hidalgo; Johan Bonillo, Hidalgo; Osmar Ramirez, IDEA Pharr; Julio Cruz, IDEA North Mission; Oscar Aguilera, IDEA North Misson; Aaron Flores, IDEA North Mission; Christian Saldana, IDEA North Mission; Elian Mata, Vanguard Beethoven; Abraham Garcia, Vanguard Beethoven; Kleber Nino, Zapata; Eduardo Garcia, Zapata; Ricardo Reyes, Grulla; Aaron Ramirez, Santa Maria

Forwards – Jorge Pina, Vanguard Rembrandt; Emiliano Pina, Vanguard Rembrandt; Santiago Hernandez, Hidalgo; Matias Rivas, IDEA Pharr; Luis Maldonado, IDEA Pharr; Gilberto Mares, IDEA Pharr; Jonathan Flores, IDEA North Mission; Brandon Bonilla, Vanguard Beethoven; Omar Rodriguez, Grulla; Armando Valdez, Santa Mara

 

District 31-4A

Most Valuable Offensive Player: Joshua Perez, Progreso

Most Valuable Defensive Player: Cesar Meza, Progreso

Co-Newcomers of the Year: Jonathan Aguirre, Monte Alto; Hicker Segura, Progreso

First Team

Goalkeepers – Giacomo Alcala, IDEA Edinburg Quest; Francisco Arratia, IDEA Weslaco Pike

Defenders – Gustavo Torres, IDEA Alamo; Humberto Zapata, IDEA Donna; Sylvan Chapa, IDEA Edinburg Quest; Luis Munoz, Monte Alto; Haciel Macias, Progreso; Rafael Montejano, IDEA Weslaco Pike

Midfielders – Sergio Gonzalez, IDEA Alamo; Israel Guerra, Monte Alto; Carlos Lopez, Progreso; Jose Cruz, IDEA Weslaco Pike

Forwards – Obed Almeda, Raymondville; Caleb Gaona, IDEA Donna; Giovany Obregon, IDEA Edinburg; Adrian Medina, IDEA Edinburg Quest; Drago Hernandez, Monte Alto; Jose J. Gutierrez, Monte Alto; Carlos Carbajal, Progreso; Diego Macias, Progreso; Aaron Mascorro, IDEA Weslaco Pike

Second Team

Goalkeepers – Angel De La Cruz, Raymondville; Christohper Delgado, IDEA Edinburg

Defenders – Fabian Reyes, Raymondville; Efren Mendoza, IDEA Alamo; Ian Gonzalez, IDEA Donna; Brandon Salinas, IDEA Edinburg; Ernesto Rosales, IDEA Edinburg; Francisco Velasquez, Monte Alto; Manuel Gomez, Progreso; Gabriel Alvarado, IDEA Weslaco Pike; Joel Grado, IDEA Weslaco Pike; Carlos Ramirez

Midfielders – Ignacio Galindo, Raymondville; Luis Morales, IDEA Donna; Maximus Cazares, IDEA Donna; Paulo Parra, IDEA Edinburg; Jesus Colegio, IDEA Edinburg Quest; Eliezer Magallan, Progreso; Fabian Barrera, Progreso

Forwards – Jasiel Resendez, IDEA Edinburg; Issac Silva, IDEA Edinburg; Sebastian Chapa, IDEA Edinburg Quest; Kevin Garcia, Progreso; Loui Gutierrez, IDEA Weslaco Pike; Benjamin Gutierrez, IDEA Weslaco Pike

Honorable Mention

Goalkeepers – Kevin Escalante, IDEA Alamo; Santos Perales, IDEA Donna; Luca Alvarez, Progreso

Defenders – Matthew Sauceda, IDEA Donna; Oliver Ortega, IDEA Edinburg Quest; Noel Magana, IDEA Edinburg Quest; Christopher Baez, Progreso; Jared Insignia, Progreso

Midfielders – Jesus Gonzalez, IDEA Alamo; Luis Almanza, IDEA Alamo; David Garcia, IDEA Donna; Jasiel Resendez, IDEA Edinburg; Hector Luna, IDEA Edinburg; Victor Gomez, IDEA Edinburg; Humberto Escobedo, IDEA Edinburg Quest; Jose J. Gutierrez, Monte Alto; Rudy Manriquez, Monte Alto; Juan Pineda, Progreso; George Luna, IDEA Weslaco Pike

Forwards – Andrew Garcia, Raymondville; Abdiel Resendez, Raymondville; Luis Acosta, IDEA Donna; Jared Saucedo, IDEA Donna

 

District 32-4A

Co-Most Valuable Players: Rogelio Galvan, Brownsville Jubilee; Aaron Aguirre, IDEA Brownsville Frontier

Offensive MVP: Tony Garcia, Port Isabel

Tri-Defensive MVPs: Angel Lara, Port Isabel; Diego Lopez, IDEA Brownsville Riverview; Leonardo Galvan, Brownsville Jubilee

Co-Newcomers of the Year: Mateo Arreola, IDEA Brownsville Riverview; Salvador Casillas, IDEA Brownsville Frontier

Coach of the Year: Roberto Coronado, Brownsville Jubilee

First Team

Goalkeeper – Luis Ulloa, Port Isabel

Defenders – Ciro Benitez, Brownsville Jubilee; Juan Lucio, IDEA Brownsville Frontier; Jorge Enriquez, IDEA Brownsville Riverview; Chris Velasquez, La Feria

Midfielders – Emiliano Soto, IDEA Brownsville Riverview; Luis Diaz, IDEA Brownsville Frontier; Gustavo Mata; Brownsville Jubilee; Joaquin Leal, Port Isabel

Forwards – Bryan Villafranca, La Feria; Diego Delgado, IDEA Brownsville Frontier; Diego Zuniga, Brownsville Jubilee; Dominic Acosta, Port Isabel

Second Team

Goalkeeper – Jonathan Flores, IDEA Brownsville Frontier

Defenders – Marco De Los Reyes, IDEA Brownsville Riverview; Gael Aguirre, IDEA Brownsville Frontier; Edward Sanchez, Port Isabel; Jose Hinojosa, IDEA Brownsville Sports Park; Joel Medina, Rio Hondo; Alan Zavala, Port Isabel

Midfielders – Luis Polanco, IDEA Brownsville Riverview; Sebastian Trevino, Brownsville Jubilee; Angel Correa, Brownsville Harmony; Sergio Garcia, IDEA Brownsville Sports Park; Daniel Childress, Port Isabel

Forward – Juan Gutierrez, IDEA Brownsville Riverview; Andy Leal, IDEA Brownsville Riverview; Leo Quezada, Rio Hondo; Mauricio Palacios, Brownsville Harmony

Honorable Mention

Goalkeepers – Epi Rincones, Rio Hondo; Mauricio Hierro, Brownsville Jubilee

Defenders – Brian Gaytan, Rio Hondo; David Contreras, Brownsville Jubilee; Rodrigo Trevino, Brownsville Jubilee

Midfielders – Jose Compean, Rio Hondo; Balde Gonzales, Rio Hondo

Forwards – Frank Ponce, Rio Hondo

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Meet the Herald/Star 2024 All-Area Boys Soccer teams and superlative winners. The Monitor’s coverage area ranges from La Feria to Brownsville. The awards and teams were put together with input from our RGVSports.com sports staff, coaches and other officials.

The Herald/Star 2023-24 All-Area Superlatives

Player of the Year: Diego Guerra, Brownsville Lopez

 

Small School Player of the Year: Diego Saldaña, Brownsville St. Joseph

 

Offensive Player of the Year: Rogelio Galvan, Brownsville Jubilee

 

Defensive Player of the Year: Adrian Longoria, Brownsville Rivera

 

Utility Player of the Year: Ramon “Chacho” Zuniga, Brownsville Lopez

 

Goalkeeper of the Year: Juan Zapata, Harlingen High

 

Newcomer of the Year: Francisco Barrientos, San Benito

 

Coach of the Year: Edgar Tovar, Brownsville St. Joseph

 

The Herald/Star 2023-24 All-Area First Team

Goalkeeper: Bryan Cobos, Brownsville Veterans

Defenders: Roman Vera, Brownsville Rivera; Gabriel Velez, Harlingen High; Ricardo Leal, Brownsville Porter

Midfielders: Pedro Villanueva, Brownsville Rivera; Alexis Morales, San Benito; Rafael Ramos, Brownsville Hanna; Manuel Medina, Brownsville Rivera

Forwards: Martin Gonzalez, Brownsville Porter; Jovanny Chavez, Brownsville Pace; Aaron Aguirre, IDEA Brownsville Frontier

Utility: Emilio Longoria, Brownsville Veterans

The Herald/Star 2023-24 All-Area Second Team

Goalkeeper: Adolfo Segura, Brownsville Porter

Defenders: Alan Oviedo, Los Fresnos; Carlos Coy, San Benito; Jose Luis Resendiz, Brownsville Lopez

Midfielders: Gustavo Mata, Brownsville Jubilee; Ethan Nolasco, Los Fresnos; Jerry Martinez, Harlingen High; Gael Zuniga, Harlingen High

Forwards: Tony Garcia, Port Isabel; Claudio Torre, Brownsville St. Joseph; Gio Barrientos, Los Fresnos

Utility: Jose Caballero, Brownsville Rivera

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Meet The Monitor’s 2024 All-Area Boys Soccer teams and superlative winners. The Monitor’s coverage area ranges from Mercedes to Roma. The awards and teams were put together with input from our RGVSports.com sports staff, coaches and other officials.

 

The Monitor’s 2023-24 All-Area Superlatives

Player of the Year: Omar Solis, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln

 

Small School Player of the Year: Joshua Perez, Progreso

 

Offensive Player of the Year: Jacob Ocañas, PSJA North

 

Defensive Player of the Year: Kenneth Reyes, Edinburg North

 

Utility Player of the Year: Melvin Gomez, Donna North

 

Goalkeeper of the Year: Adrian Alvarez, Edinburg North

 

Co-Newcomers of the Year: Hicker Segura, Progreso; Hector Veliz, Sharyland Pioneer

 

Co-Coaches of the Year: Elias Moran, Edinburg North; Damian Magallan, Progreso

 

The Monitor’s 2023-24 All-Area First Team

Goalkeeper: Omar Garcia, PSJA Memorial

Defenders: Erick Gonzalez, Edinburg North; Jovanny Martinez, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln; Cesar Meza, Progreso

Midfielders: Juan Pablo Trevino, Sharyland High; Randy Galvan, Edinburg Economedes; Jared Arevalo, Sharyland Pioneer; Diego Macias, Progreso

Forwards: Enrique Torres, Donna North; Diego Pina, PSJA Memorial; Juan Nieto Donna High

Utility: Furkan Coban, Sharyland High

The Monitor’s 2023-24 All-Area Second Team

Goalkeeper: Edson Balderas, Donna North

Defenders: Santos Gonzalez, Sharyland Pioneer; Inaki Cruz, Sharyland High; Jonathan May-Nieves, Donna North

Midfielders: Bryan Garcia, Edinburg Economedes; Jony Macias, PSJA Memorial; Emiliano Villegas, Valley View; Alan Martinez, McAllen High

Forwards: Ian Cerecedo, Hidalgo; Julio Cardenas, PSJA Memorial; Sebastian Chapa, IDEA Edinburg Quest

Utility: Edgar Hernandez, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln

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Brownsville Lopez’s Diego Guerra made some noise as a freshman with the Lobos a season ago, netting 12 goals in 18 district games.

The breakout freshman campaign was just a sign of things to come.

Guerra more than built off a solid freshman season, evolving into one of the RGV’s top players as a sophomore.

The Lobos’ striker netted a program-record 48 goals this year, leading the Lobos to their first district title since 2018 and their first regional final appearance since 2017.

Guerra is The Brownsville Herald/Valley Morning Star 2024 Boys Soccer All-Area Player of the Year.

“Last year as a freshman, it was hard to adjust because of the speed of the play,” Guerra said. “I considered myself more of a role player because we had so many seniors on the team. This year, I was just trying to do my job and help the team as much as I could. It means a lot to win this award. It feels amazing. I want to come back these next two years and compete for that title again. I don’t see why I can’t do it again.”

Guerra looked well-adjusted to the varsity game this season, netting a hat trick during a 5-0 win over Valley View at the BISD Showcase early in the year.

The three-goal performance sent a message to the opposing defenses, establishing him as another weapon for the Lobos alongside Ramon “Chacho” Zuniga, last year’s Herald/Star MVP.

“Chacho is incredible, and I believe I’m on par with him,” Guerra said. “I think together we can take this team as far as we want. It took me a little time to adjust as the goal scorer of the team and the one the team looks for, but soon, I wasn’t even trying to score goals anymore, it just came naturally. A big part were my teammates. They were the ones who helped make that happen.”

Guerra continued to show his growth once district play started, scoring at least once during 14 of Lopez’s 18 district games, including seven games with two or more goals.

Among those games was a four-goal performance during a 5-0 win over Donna North to close out the regular season, securing the Lobos a share of the district title for the first time since 2018.

With the No. 1 seed in tow, the Lobos marched into the Region IV-5A final for the first time since 2017, with Guerra netting five goals during that span to bring his season total to 48.

The Lobos’ season ultimately ended in the fifth round, falling 2-1 to eventual Class 5A state runner-up Leander Glenn. Guerra nearly netted the tying goal during the final seconds of the game, with the ball sailing just left of the goal.

Guerra’s sophomore campaign was a year of firsts, winning his first district title, making his first regional final appearance and capturing his first player of the year award, along with also setting a program record in single-season goals.

Next year, the Lobos’ forward is hoping to add another first to his resumè — a state title.

“It means a lot to win that district title since we hadn’t won one in a long time, but I want this program to get back on the top,” Guerra said. “We want another district title, but we want to go further and win state. The message for next year is we can’t settle for regionals anymore. It’s state or nothing. It doesn’t matter. This program is built for a state title. That is what we’re aiming for.”

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La Joya Juarez-Lincoln’s Omar Solis called his shot a season ago.

After winning The Monitor’s All-Area Boys Soccer Offensive Player of the Year award as a junior, the Huskies’ striker had his sights set on another award this year: MVP.

Mission accomplished.

After leading the Huskies to their eighth straight district title and a regional quarterfinal appearance, Solis is The Monitor’s 2024 All-Area Boys Soccer Player of the Year.

“It makes me feel like a great soccer player winning this award,” Solis said. “It’s not easy to win this award. It takes hard work and dedication. Last year I won offensive player of the year, but I wasn’t convinced about that award. I worked harder my last year of high school soccer, and that paid off by winning MVP.”

Solis’ numbers didn’t pop off the stat sheet like his previous two seasons, campaigns which ended with roughly 30 goals.

Still, his impact went beyond the box score as a senior, drawing the attention of opposing defenders to create opportunities for his teammates.

Solis’ sheer presence resulted in six of his teammates scoring at least three or more goals this year, more than double the amount from last year.

“My numbers were down, but that didn’t stop me from doing what I needed to do,” Solis said. “It opened up opportunities for my teammates. It was a challenge to me, but it allowed me to become more (of a) facilitator for my teammates.”

While Solis’ numbers dipped during his final season, the Huskies’ striker was still among the RGV’s best during district play, finding paydirt 19 times in 14 appearances.

The mark ranked 11th in the RGV this year, and his 1.4 goals per contest ranked seventh in the Valley during district play.

Solis took his game to another level during the postseason, scoring five times during the Huskies’ 6-1 bi-district win over Victoria East, following it up with a two-goal outing during a 3-0 win over Donna North in the area round.

His seven goals during the postseason were the most among all RGV players this year.

“This year I faced tough defensive players, but they couldn’t stop me from scoring in important games like in the playoffs,” Solis said. “I focus on staying composed, reading the defense and looking for open spaces so my teammates could play me the ball and score.”

Solis finished the year with 26 combined goals during district play and the postseason, leading the Huskies to their eighth district title and a third-round appearance.

The TSC signee leaves Juarez-Lincoln as a four-time district champion, netting more than 70 goals during that span.

“Playing for Juarez-Lincoln for four years has been an incredible journey filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories,” Solis said. “Representing the Huskies on the field has not only been an honor but also a source of immense pride for me. The support from my teammates, coaches and the entire school community has been instrumental in my growth as a player and as a person. Every match, every practice and every moment spent wearing the Huskies jersey has been a reminder of the passion and dedication that drives me to succeed.”

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LA JOYA — La Joya senior pitcher Santiago Tijerina struck out 11 and allowed no hits as the Coyotes downed the Panthers 3-0 during Game 2 of a best-of-3 regional quarterfinal series Friday at the Leo Garza Jr. Baseball and Softball Complex.

The Coyotes victory ties the series 1-1, forcing a winner take all contest tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. at Weslaco High School.

La Joya High came out firing during the bottom of the second inning, taking a 1-0 lead on a RBI single by Lucas Zambrano.

The Coyotes added to their lead on the next at bat, with Rolando Solis bringing in another run to make it 2-0 after two innings.

An errors by the Panthers during the bottom of the fifth put the Coyotes in scoring position once again, with Vadhir De Hoyos advancing to third.

La Joya took advantage of the Panthers mishap, with Kevin Flores hitting a line drive to left field to bring in De Hoyos for the security run.

A double play by the Coyotes during the top of the sixth kept the Panthers off the board, with Tijerina adding one final strikeout during the top of the seventh to secure the win.

Solis and Zambrano led the Coyotes during the night, each recording two hits and bringing in one run. Flores added one hit and one RBI.

Tijerina took home the win on the mound for the Coyotes, striking out 11 of the 25 batters faced in seven innings of action.

Weslaco High’s John Reyna tallied the loss on the mound for the Panthers, finishing with six strikeouts and three runs allowed in five innings.

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Photo Gallery: La Joya High sends Weslaco High into regional series game 3 after a 3-0 win at home

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WRITER’S NOTE: This story is part of a series highlighting the Brownsville Herald/Valley Morning Star boys soccer all-area award winners. The Herald/Star coverage area ranges from Brownsville to La Feria. Check back throughout the week as we reveal the Lower Valley’s other superlative winners and be sure to pick up a copy of Saturday’s newspaper for a complete list of the all-area winners. 

Brownsville St. Joseph’s Diego Saldaña had big shoes to fill coming into the 2024 season. The senior forward was tasked with replacing last year’s star player Luis Del Pozos, a first-team all-state selection who helped the Bloodhounds make their first state championship appearance.

Saldaña looked comfortable stepping into those shoes this year, emerging as a star striker in the RGV while leading the Bloodhounds to the TAPPS DII state title.

After netting a combined 35 goals during district and the playoffs and helping St. Joseph’s reach the top of the mountain, Saldaña is the Herald/Star 2024 All-Area Boys Soccer Small School Player of the year.

“It means a lot to me winning this award,” Saldaña said. “Not many people get this opportunity, so it is just a really nice award to win.”

Saldaña wasted little time establishing himself as the team’s top weapon, netting five goals during the team’s district opener.

His five-goal performance was just the beginning for the senior striker, scoring at least once during nine of the team’s 12 district contests, including eight games with two or more goals.

“My role this season was to score goals for my team,” Saldaña said. “I was able to reach my goals.”

Saldaña didn’t just score in bursts for the Bloodhounds. During the game’s biggest moments, it almost always was Saldaña coming up with the big play.

He sparked a rally from a 3-0 deficit during the area round of the postseason, recording a second-half hat trick to push St. Joseph past Houston Second Baptist 5-3.

On the game’s biggest stage, Saldaña came up with the play of the game once again, scoring the game-winning goal during the TAPPS DII state championship game against Austin St. Michael’s, securing the Bloodhounds first state title ever.

Saldaña finished the year with 29 goals during district play, the second most among all RGV athletes this season. He added six goals in four postseason contests, which also ranked second among RGV players.

“During those big moments, I was just looking for anybody on our team to score,” Saldaña said. “But really, I wanted to be the one to score them. Luckily, I was able to make it happen. It meant a lot to me to hoist that trophy this year after finishing in second last season. It was devastating to be honest. We really wanted to win it this year. Having that opportunity to come back and win it this year, it was just great.”

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