FREDDY GONZALEZ | Valley Morning Star
With players like Monique Rodriguez, Leah Leal and Kay-lani Vasquez on the team, it can be easy to sometimes overlook players who may not get on the scoreboard, but still play a vital roll on a talent-rich soccer squad like the Harlingen Lady Cardinals.
One of those players is Arley Gonzalez – a senior who has played her part and helped get the Lady Cards to where they sit this season.
For her efforts this past week, Gonzalez was named the Valley Morning Star’s female Player of the Week.
“She is an aggressive player who is quick at winning the ball, she’s our captain and works very hard at every position,” said Harlingen head coach Debra Galvan. “She is also versatile and can play on both offense and defense. She has three assists and has played for five games. She works hard, never complains and when she falls down she gets right back up. She keeps the team motivated and calm under pressure.
“Arley does not give up nor let up when the player gets past her because she is a captain who everybody counts on to keep the team going.”
This season, Arely has 12 shots on goal and has been on target for 60 percent of her opportunities.
The Lady Cards are in second place in a tough District 32-6A where the top three teams are separated by just four points.
Currently, Los Fresnos sit at first with 21 points, Harlingen in second with 18 points and Harlingen South in third with 17 points.