The team won 1-0 in its first match on Sept. 18. Head Coach Shea Harwell is optimistic about the Poets' performance and credits the success to the recent rebuilding of the program.
“We have 40 guys on our roster, and usually we only carry around 30,” Harwell said. “But we brought in 25 new athletes into the mix, and it's proved really fruitful.”
Returning players, such as fourth-year sports management major and goalkeeper Anthony Chavoya, also strengthened the team due to extra off-season practice.
Chavoya trained in the spring with Irvine Zeta FC II, a feeder team to Irvine Zeta FC. The parent club competes in the third-division pro league National Independent Soccer Association. He made his professional debut in March’s US Open Cup against Ventura County FC, and he continued to make almost 20 appearances with the team over the season.
“They're very structured,” Chavoya said of his time with Irvine Zeta FC II. “They have a philosophy the way they play, and it was a very cool season.”
Originally from Fullerton, Chavoya grew up competing in soccer, swimming, and baseball. Yet it was Valencia High School’s coach, Barry Gardner, who made Chavoya realize he wanted to pursue soccer.
“It’s something you can always play everywhere.”
Harwell said Chavoya — who everyone else on the team calls “The Dragon” — has the most minutes played of Whittier’s goalies.
“His discipline and his example for the younger guys have been great,” Harwell said. “His consistency and general demeanor have been outstanding.”
Senior Night — the last home game of the year to cheer on Chavoya and the other Poets — is at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2.
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