The562’s coverage of Aquatic sports in Long Beach is sponsored by the Aquatic Capital of America Foundation.
The562’s coverage of Cabrillo Athletics is sponsored by the Cohn Family.
If there’s anyone capable of building a competitive squad on the Westside, it’s Lawrence Durand. The Jaguars’ 11-year coach organized the program like never before and last year Cabrillo made history by reaching a CIF Southern Section Division 5 semifinal game.
The 19 season wins were a program record, the nine-game winning streak as part of the playoff run was the longest in program history, and it was the most playoff wins in the highest division in program history.
Now Durand has to build again after losing a handful of All-League players to graduation. In an effort to streamline the process, Durand has adjusted the length of his training and drills.
“We cut the fat off,” Durand said. “With these kids today you’re dealing with a lot of distractions. It’s hard getting them to focus sometimes. So now our drills get to the point. You have to make it a blockbuster drill. It’s more specific and quicker.”
Durand added that he actually enjoys the process of changing his coaching style to get the best out of his players.
“The whole thing is gearing these guys up for success in life and the only way you can do that is hard work and having a mature attitude so you have a better probability of success,” he said.
Senior goalkeeper Beto Salazar is the top returner with multiple years of experience in the cage for Cabrillo. His brother Nahun Salazar will be the center of the Jaguars offensive set at the other end of the pool.
Returning captains Jacob Jacinto and Kris Mendoza are also returning with eyes for more goal scoring opportunities this season. Durand said that Anthony Rizzo, Gary Romero and Jorge Pasten will play roles.
“We had a bad game, an embarrassing loss (last week) and it’s good to have those (early) because now (the players) are a little bit more attentive and listening more,” Durand said. “You can’t forget the fundamentals and defense is number one.”
