Rebecca Margolin
For the first time since 2020, the boys varsity soccer team has taken home the Los Angeles City Section Open Division title in a tough battle ending with a 2-1 victory, and a celebration of the hard work and perseverance the athletes have put in to secure this major win on the field.
“[When I scored the goal] it was a moment of shock,” senior team captain Bladimir Coto. “I was put in a position where I could score and get my team up.”
Going into overtime, the competition was fierce and required high athleticism and stamina. Senior Jonathan Rabinovitch scored the first goal bringing the team up to 1-1, and the second goal was scored by Coto, bringing the team to a 2-1 win.
“[The team] definitely communicates and puts in the work together,” Coto said. “Everyday, I grind it in their brains. We’re [also] a family, not just a team.”
The true strength of the boys soccer team is the unbreakable bond they’ve built on and off the field, but also the work they’ve put in practicing drills and scrimmaging to live up to their full potential, with the help of their coach.
“[Coach Kogan] has stuck through and devoted a lot of time [to the program],” Coto said. “After having a lot of ups and downs last year we were super grateful we could bring a city title to him.”
Through the wins and losses, their coach can be credited with fostering team culture and pushing them to achieve and improve their skills. The leadership the team has to look up to has transformed them into more than just a group of athletes, and instead into a supportive community.
“Sometimes there are disagreements in between practice,” Coto said. “It’s natural, but we just shake through it and make sure to stay strong.”
Each athlete brings something different to the table, and together, they cultivate a deep sense of camaraderie while pushing through hardships to win. In addition, they still have much more to come.
“I’m definitely trying to play in college and continue with soccer,” Coto said. “We have to keep grinding and working hard everyday.”