A core forward player for UC High’s Boys Soccer Team, Senior Everardo Diaz de Leon, also known as “Evy,” marks goals across life’s fields with an unmatched cool and a productive mindset. 

   Diaz de Leon’s first encounter with soccer was at the young age of seven. Ever since, he has climbed his way up across five different Club Teams in San Diego, and joined UC High’s Boys Soccer Team his sophomore year.

   As the team’s main striker, Diaz de Leon must confidently attack and finalize plays by scoring. He attributes his success in his position to his speed, strength and agility.

   Diaz de Leon’s fascination for the sport, however, goes beyond mere competition. He said, “I enjoy how fit you have to be, how hard it is to score, and your reliance on your feet to control the ball.” He enjoys the universality of soccer, as “…you can travel and play it anywhere in the world,” he said.

   Senior Gregorio Zarraga, who first met Diaz de Leon in middle school, said, “His biggest strength is his overall power and strength to kick a ball…. He’ll be scoring a lot of goals this season.”

   Head Coach Chris Tolles said, “Everado has all the tools. He’s big, strong and fast. He also has a good touch and the ability to take on defenders in [head-to-head battles]. Lastly, he has a powerful right foot that can be very accurate.”

   Senior Liam Holmes said, “[Diaz de Leon is] fast on the ball and knows how to open up in a play…. He’s a key part to our attack this season.” Holmes added, “I admire how he’s a natural striker. [Last season] he scored a last-minute goal that made us tie 3-3 in our CIF opening match against Calexico, which took us to penalties.”

   Tolles looks forward to Diaz de Leon’s expanded leadership role in his final season with the team, which he has earned through his endless commitment to both his teammates and the sport. He said, “[Diaz de Leon] has constantly put in the effort and work ethic over the past three years to make him one of the leaders of the team during his senior season.”

   “He’s a great teammate, because he brings the team spirit up and always cracks up a joke,” said Senior Leonardo Romero. He added, “I admire Everardo’s height, charisma and his dedication to always outdo opponents.”

   Zarraga commended Diaz de Leon’s easygoing demeanor. He said, “He never gets mad over anything, always laughs it off and tries his best in the next play.”

   “[Diaz de Leon is] very consistent with his efforts and treats each one of his teammates with respect,” said Senior Evan Hughes. Hughes considers dribbling and shooting to be Diaz de Leon’s strengths, and most admires his “…standout ability to lead a team.”

   Diaz de Leon’s growth over the years has become more than evident. “Everado has improved all aspects of his game, but his level of confidence has grown the most over the last few years. You can tell he certainly works on his game outside of training and wants to reach the next level by his commitment to train hard every day,” said Tolles.

   “Over the years, I have improved most on my ability to play and control off of one touch [of the ball],” said Diaz de Leon. 

   Last season, Diaz de León placed sixth in goal count for the City Western League with nine goals, making him UC High’s highest scorer for the upcoming season, as per MaxPreps (maxpreps.com).

   With a potent kick and unmatched charisma, Diaz de Leon is a commendable Male Athlete of the Month.