Player Spotlight: Andrea Pineda

VINCENT LIN
Sports Editor
Although the varsity girls’ soccer team owes its season to some fortunate factors, including having a returning head coach for the first time in years, it is always the will of the players that make it happen. The ones that remain to the end as Lady Moors become leaders of the team, whose presence unites all others, even through the most tumultuous years. Senior center defender Andrea Pineda has been a part of AHS soccer for four years, and as Co-Captain among only three senior players this year, her leadership has helped drive the team to their first CIF game in six years. Despite her position, she emphasizes the importance of a collective team bond as the key to a good soccer season.

Accomplishments
• 1-year JV Leader
• 1-year JV MVP
• 1-year varsity Captain
• 1-year CIF entry

What have you learned since your first year on the soccer team?
I learned to communicate better with people, and I became more talkative and confident. I gained courage and determination in myself to become a better player. I also learned how to play different positions that I’ve never played before.

Why is building a team bond such an important aspect of playing?
We’re able to communicate better, have fun and give constructive criticism. On the team, there isn’t just one person you talk to, we’re all really close. That way, we’re just able to enjoy it all together. No matter if we win or lose, we have fun every time.

Do you plan on playing soccer in the future?
I’ve been playing soccer since fourth grade; it would be hard to imagine stopping, so I plan to play in college.

What do you want to become in the future?
I want to study nursing in college to become a registered nurse.

What advice do you have for the future soccer players?
You should remain positive and determined in taking first in league next year and making CIF again. Don’t let others get in the way of reaching your ultimate goal.