Entering a bustling UC Merced men’s soccer practice, one quickly realizes that communication flows as freely as the energy on the field.
“If you can’t speak to your brothers out here, you’re not going to be able to speak to too many people,” head coach Albert Martins emphasizes, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and teamwork.
“We like to play with high energy and to be high energy, you need to communicate,” midfielder Xavier Barajas states, outlining the team’s core philosophy underpinning their dynamic playing style.
That emphasis on communication is undeniably effective, reflecting in their teamwork and strategy on the field.
“It’s just a standard you have to have to be a great team,” insists striker Daniel Borges, echoing the sentiments shared throughout the squad.
With a remarkable record of 10 wins and three ties, the Bobcats proudly finished the regular season as one of just three unbeaten teams within the NAIA nationally.
Moreover, their ascension in the rankings was notable, as they climbed to the 21st position in the nation, marking their second-highest historical ranking.
“A lot of these young men are getting the recognition nationally they’ve been working so hard to achieve,” Martins said, expressing his pride in the team’s accomplishments and growth.
This impressive feat was accomplished by a squad comprised entirely of players from California, showcasing local talent.
“It brings us together in a lot of ways,” says midfielder Diego Fresquez, acknowledging the unity fostered by their shared experiences.
The majority of the team hails from the Central Valley, including Coach Martins himself, who is proud to call Los Banos home.
“We take pride in being passionate about this game,” he states. “The Central Valley is quite passionate about this sport.”
After securing the Cal Pac regular season title, the Bobcats are set to host the highly anticipated conference championship tournament in November.
“The expectation for us is to win it,” Fresquez affirmed confidently, emphasizing their commitment to hard work and perseverance.
“Embedded it in ourselves to win every game and dominate every team we can,” Barajas reiterated, underlining the team’s ambitious mindset as they look ahead.
The focus now transitions to the national tournament, reflecting on their strong resolve and preparation for the challenges to come.
“We’re all very proud of what we’ve accomplished,” Fresquez shared, while also acknowledging the need to stay focused on upcoming obstacles.
By clinching the Cal Pac tournament title, the Bobcats can secure an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament, affectionately referred to as the “big dance.”
“It’s hard not to feel a difference in the air, but we’re still trying to take it as every game is still just that day,” Martins noted, emphasizing their steady approach amid the excitement.
In a memorable 2019 season, the squad made a remarkable run to the Sweet 16, and this year’s group believes they are well-equipped to reach even greater heights.
“A lot of seniors last year, so we want to make it our greatest year ever,” Borges expressed, fueling the collective ambition driving the team’s efforts.
“I do believe they’ve put themselves in a great position to make that deep run, to be the best team we’ve had here at our campus,” Martins concluded, reflecting on the potential for monumental success ahead.
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**Interview with UC Merced Men’s Soccer Head Coach Albert Martins and Players Xavier Barajas and Diego Fresquez**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining me today. You recently wrapped up a successful regular season. Coach Martins, could you start by sharing what this season has meant for you and the team?
**Coach Martins:** Absolutely! This season has been incredibly fulfilling. We managed to finish with a record of 10 wins and three ties, placing us among the top three unbeaten teams in the NAIA nationally. I’m really proud of how the players have come together, displayed their talents, and earned national recognition.
**Editor:** It sounds like a great achievement. Xavier, as a midfielder, what role does communication play in your team’s strategy?
**Xavier Barajas:** Communication is key for us. As Coach Martins mentioned, if you can’t speak to your teammates, it’s tough to function as a cohesive unit. We emphasize high energy in our playing style, and that requires constant communication on the field to maintain momentum and strategy.
**Editor:** Diego, you’ve also highlighted that your team is comprised entirely of local talent from California. How does this impact team dynamics?
**Diego Fresquez:** It definitely brings us closer together. Sharing similar backgrounds and experiences fosters unity and camaraderie. We all understand the passion for soccer in the Central Valley, and that collective drive helps us work even harder to achieve our goals.
**Editor:** After securing the Cal Pac regular season title, what are the next steps as you prepare for the conference championship tournament?
**Fresquez:** Our goal is to win the championship! We’ve built a strong foundation through hard work, and we’re committed to dominating every game we play. Staying focused is critical as we transition toward the national tournament.
**Editor:** Coach, what’s your outlook on the upcoming national tournament, especially with the prospect of securing an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament?
**Coach Martins:** We’re focused and determined. Our success in the Cal Pac tournament will hopefully pave the way to the NCAA tournament, which we affectionately call the “big dance.” It’s a huge opportunity for our players, and we realize the significance of every match moving forward.
**Editor:** It’s clear there’s a strong sense of pride and ambition among your team. Is there anything else you’d like to share about what lies ahead?
**Barajas:** We’ve embedded the mentality to win every game, and we look forward to showcasing what we’ve built as a team. We’re proud of our accomplishments so far, but we know the journey isn’t over yet.
**Editor:** Thank you all for your insights and best of luck in the upcoming tournaments!
**Martins, Barajas, and Fresquez:** Thank you!
