Why CV and CHS Girls Soccer Teams Are Set to Break Records in 2025-26—You Won't Believe What Happens Next!

As the 2025-26 season approaches, the excitement is palpable within the girls' soccer programs at Central Valley High School and Ceres High School. Both teams are poised for success, boasting a mix of talent and experience that could lead them to new heights this year.

“We’re in a good spot,” stated Central Valley head coach Miguel Larranaga. “We have a strong team. We want to win league so we get a good spot for playoffs.” The Hawks, looking to continue their impressive trajectory, have high aspirations for the upcoming season, particularly as they aim for their third consecutive Sac-Joaquin Section playoff berth and a potential second straight Western Athletic Conference (WAC) championship.

Coach Larranaga has brought together a roster of 19 players this year, retaining several key returners, including seniors Elia Hernandez, Aaliyah Jauregui, Marcella Larranaga, and Jocelyn Rivera. Newcomers also look promising, and include fresh talents like Anahy Aguilar and Melanee Gutierrez, who have been awarded roster spots. However, the Hawks did face some losses, having graduated four players, including Magnolia Tavizon and Eliana Tamayo.

“I look for skills like speed, ball control under pressure and passing more than anything,” Coach Larranaga elaborated, emphasizing the importance of foundational skills when assessing his players. This focus is especially crucial as the team gears up to compete fiercely for league standings and playoff positions. With team chemistry described as “excellent,” Larranaga noted, “The girls want to be here. They like and respect each other. They’re like sisters.”

In terms of leadership, Aaliyah Jauregui and Marcella Larranaga have been appointed as team captains. Jauregui, who earned first-team all-WAC honors last season and contributed three goals and three assists, is currently recovering from an ankle injury. Marcella Larranaga, who was selected to the WAC Second Team, made her mark as a standout defender, tallying seven goals and four assists. Coach Larranaga remarked, “They’re definitely the leaders of the team. They’re committed. Their teammates listen to them. They’re good examples.”

On the other side of town, Ceres High is also setting its sights on the playoffs under the guidance of coach Rudy Jimenez. The Bulldogs aim to make their 11th consecutive playoff appearance and challenge Central Valley for the league title. Jimenez has assembled a roster of 14 players this season, featuring key returners such as seniors Jessie Blevins and Stephanie Espinoza, alongside promising newcomers like Martina Meglioli and Tatiana Zamora. However, the team did lose eight players to graduation, including Ava Montesdeoca and Alyssa Santillanes.

“I got a mix of girls that are extremely talented, athletic and know the game,” Jimenez shared, expressing confidence in his squad's capabilities. Team captains Luna, Navarro, and Giselle Zamora have proven to be instrumental in rallying the players, with Jimenez emphasizing their leadership skills: “They lead very well. All the girls respect them.”

Last season, Ceres High finished with an 11-7-3 overall record and secured second place in the league with a mark of 9-2-2. They ended the season unbeaten in their last seven games, showcasing their growth and potential. Coach Jimenez is optimistic about the upcoming season, stating, “There’s no reason we can’t take first (in league). Without a doubt, I believe we can make playoffs again. We have the talent to do it.”

The two teams met twice last season, with Central Valley winning the first match 2-0, while their second encounter ended in a scoreless tie. This year, the rivalry continues, with the matches scheduled for January 15 at Ceres River Bluff Regional Park and February 10 at Ceres High.

“Every time we play them, it’s a tough game,” Coach Larranaga noted. “They always do their best against us. It’s exciting to coach those games. You want to win for the girls and school. There’s a lot of pride.” Jimenez added that the rivalry is “friendly” and characterized by mutual respect, setting the stage for thrilling matchups ahead.

As the season unfolds, both Central Valley and Ceres High are eager to showcase their talent, determination, and teamwork, aiming not only for league victories but also for playoff aspirations. With such promising teams in the mix, this season is sure to be one filled with excitement for local soccer fans.