The562’s season previews for the 2022-23 school year are sponsored by Vertical Raise, the official team fundraising partner of The562.
The562’s soccer coverage for the 2022-23 school year is sponsored by Beach Futbol Club.
The562’s coverage of Jordan Athletics is sponsored by John Ross, Class of 2013.
The Panthers haven’t won a Moore League boys’ soccer title since 1995 when they reached a CIF Southern Section final, but second-year coach Deyan Doychev thinks he has a skillful roster this year that can get back to the top half of the league standings.
“We haven’t been comfortable in attack for the last few years,” Doychev said. “We’re trying to pull some kids up to help us out.”
Jordan will rely heavily on top returning forward Josh Limas to provide those scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. Limas will be joined up top by wings Rigo Rueda and Salvador Borrayo. Attacking midfielder and captain Brandon Sanchez will play behind them and move around a lot in Doychev’s formation. Bruce Lopez will also be key in the midfield.
“This year is going to be different because we have some strong players,” midfielder Christopher Reyes said. “Our drills for passing and shooting skills are there.”
The Panthers defense should be stronger as well this year with Angel Salas taking over as goalkeeper after being the backup last season. Center backs Jake Martinez is a returning starter, as is All-Moore League right back Reynaldo Landaverde.
“We’re not just trying to make a team, we’re trying to make a family,” Reyes said. “Communication is key in those league games.”
Jordan will start the season this month with quality challenges against local teams like Norwalk and St. Anthony. Doychev, who was Jordan’s junior varsity head coach and Varsity assistant before taking over the program, wants to use his 15+ years of experience coaching to help the Panthers play a more appetizing style.
“I know most of these kids have been playing club and Sunday leagues where coaches teach them to kick it high and forward and run after the ball,” he said. “I have to explain to them that we’re not a European club team, we’ve got to get the ball on the ground and keep possession. I want medium sized passes and good technique in transition while we keep moving. It’s going to be constantly worked out in the season.”
