Norco College rallied in celebration of its recent Signing Day, paying homage to the stellar achievements of its sophomore athletes who've clinched spots in four-year universities on soccer scholarships. The event, orchestrated by Kassandra Cisneros, Sports Marketing Analyst, with Ruth Leal's adept lensmanship, showcased the raw talent and commitment of the college's soccer program, steered by Head Coach Drew Rea.
The Signing Day ceremony, attended by Assistant Coaches Ernie Parra and Alex Munoz, along with other Norco College leaders, players, families, and supporters, represented the strong sense of camaraderie pulsating within the soccer program at Norco College.
A total of nine student-athletes were signed:
1. Efren Nunez Dominguez (#11), playing as Center Attacking Mid (CAM), majoring in Business Management at Norco College, will continue his studies in Business Management at Cal State San Marcos starting in 2024. With an impressive record of 8 goals and 10 assists, Efren has demonstrated exceptional skill on the field.
2. Juan Martinez (#17), a forward majoring in kinesiology, will pursue his passion for soccer and kinesiology at the University of La Verne starting in the fall of 2024.
3. Aidan Olufson (#10), Central Midfielder (CM), studying Business, will join San Francisco State University in Fall 2024 after an illustrious time at Norco College marked by 11 goals and 11 assists.
4. Isaac Solorzano (#6), Defensive Midfielder (CDM) majoring in Kinesiology, has earned prestigious honors, including All-State and multiple conference awards. He will transition to Cal State Los Angeles in the Fall of 2024.
5. Joshua Mezquita (#8), Center Midfielder, also pursuing kinesiology, will further his academic and athletic journey at the University of La Verne starting in the fall of 2024.
6. Cedrick Alexander (#4), Center Back, majoring in Business, leaves a remarkable legacy at Norco College with numerous accolades and leadership as team captain. He will attend San Francisco State University in the Fall.
7. Carlos Zuniga (#21), Forward, studying Kinesiology, exhibits a love for soccer and culinary arts. He will bring his passion for both to Chico State in Spring 2024.
8. Dominic Kienzle (#7), Forward, majoring in Business Administration, has shone brightly on the field, earning titles such as Player of the Year and All-Conference honors. Dominic will pursue International Management at the University of Montevallo starting in the fall of 2024.
9. Martin Fiala (#1), Goalkeeper specializing in Business Administration, will continue his academic and athletic journey at Menlo College in Spring 2024, following a stellar season marked by accolades such as Player of the Year and All-State recognition.
Each player brings a unique blend of talent, dedication, and academic skill to their respective universities, showcasing the holistic development fostered by Norco College's soccer program.
Coach Drew Rea expressed his pride in the achievements of these student-athletes, highlighting their hard work and commitment both on and off the field.
"Signing Day is a culmination of years of dedication and effort. We are thrilled to see our players continue their academic and athletic pursuits at great institutions" said Coach Rea.
Norco College congratulates these exceptional student-athletes on their achievements and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.
For more information about Norco College Men's Soccer and its programs, please visit https://athletics.norcocollege.edu/sports/msoc/index.