Six Shutouts in a Row Earns LG Boys Soccer Defense County Athletes of the Week Honors

The La Grange boy’s soccer defensive team has led their squad to an overall record of 13- 5-2 and a 8-1 district mark, including six consecutive games in which the opposition hasn’t scored.

“I think a strong defense is always the key to competing,” said La Grange head boy’s soccer coach William McGonagle. “You’re never out of a match, it doesn’t matter who you play. You always give yourself a chance to win. This group as a whole, they’ve really meshed well. They go against a pretty good offense in practice, too. So it makes both of them better. They play with a lot of effort and play really smart. It’s been a good group to coach.” The production from this unit has led to results, along with a nomination for this edition’s Athletes of the Week.

Goalkeeper Antonio Landaverde:

Question: What are the keys to being a good goalkeeper?

Answer: “You got to have a strong voice, you have to talk with your teammates. You’re like the heart, the most important player on the team. You got to be on your toes.”

Question: Who’s an athlete you look up to and why?

Answer: “I don’t really have an athlete I look up to. Just take it day by day, try to be the best player I can. Myself, really.”

Sweeper Matthew Garza:

Question: What made you start playing soccer?

Answer: “I played when I was little and then when I got to high school, I was like ‘I’m going to play soccer.’ I started playing and I was pretty good.”

Question: What’s your favorite movie and why?

Answer: “Probably The Avengers because I like the super heroes and stuff like that.”

Right-Back William Bundick:

Question: What would you say is the best part about soccer?

Answer: “The best part about soccer is the teamwork that’s involved with it. You can always count on them to have your back.”

Question: What’s your go-to meal before a game?

Answer: “Defiinitely spaghetti. Can always have the carbs.”

Right-Center Back Edgar Monjaras:

Question: Where’s a place you’d like to travel to and why?

Answer: “Somewhere in the U.K. It’d be interesting to go out and find a new place. Just explore new places.”

Question: How does soccer help you in everyday life?

Answer: “Just to communicate better with other people and work along with people better.”

Left-Center Back Luis Mendez:

Question: How would you describe the importance of playing defense?

Answer: “I’d say defense is honestly one of the most important pieces on the team. We got to protect our goalie.”

Question: Who’s an idol of yours that you’d like to have dinner with?

Answer: “Sergio Ramos. He’s one of the best defensive players of all time.”

Left-Back Owen Westall:

Question: What are your aspirations for soccer this season?

Answer: “I just want to be the best player I can be. Make it as far as we can in the playoffs.”

Question: Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Answer: “Having a job in computer stuff.”

The Leopards defense emphasizes teamwork and it shows with how dominant they have been.