By: Tatiana Gudiel-Carranza
Editor, Railroader Express
The defending DI-A North boys soccer champs’ repeat hopes took a blow this summer, losing junior Jesus Partida for the season with a torn ACL.
“Jesus is one of best players I’ve ever had the privilege of coaching in my fourteen years at Sparks high,” Sparks coach Frank Avilla said.
As a sophomore, Partida led the team with an obnoxious 29 goals, 10 more than the team’s second-leading scorer, Genaro Vasquez who is also a junior this fall. Unsurprisingly, Partida’s 3.3 shots per game also led the team.
“I didn’t think it would happen to me,” Partida said.
Though the junior standout said he hates being off the field and not scoring for Sparks, he is willing to wait for his recovery. He doesn’t believe the injury will hold him back for next year when he hopes to be recruited at play collegiately. His brother, Kevin, is entering his junior season at UNLV.
“We are going to miss him,” Avilla said.
Partida has played soccer since the age four. But it no longer feels like a game, or a simple sport. It’s a lifestyle. Bleed, and breathing soccer, Partida can only wait until he is fully recovered for next year. He will spend this year as a team manager.
Encouraging Partida, Avilla believes that being manager for the team will humble the star, and help those on the team who are struggling.
Even though Partida will be missed by his team, and coaches, the Railroaders’ optimism for the season remains high.
Sparks went 22-3-2 last season on its way to the regional title.
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