The Journey Toward Victory

by Lynette Morales , MetroSports Magazine Special Correspondent

This season, the Westchester Community College soccer team has proven that hard work, determination, and teamwork can lead to incredible success. With a blend of skillful play, strategic coaching, and unwavering support from our fans, the Vikings have proven they are champions. Here is a look back at the season and the journey to the championship title.

Above: The Westchester Community College Vikings Soccer Team after winning the mid-Hudson Conference. Photo credit - Chasity @chasleamedia_

Opening day Victory - Tuesday September 10, 2024, the Vikings are against the Tigers of Queensborough Community College. The Vikings marked the biggest win over the Tigers since 2021 with a score of 5-1 where SUNY Westchester had gotten on the board first in the 22nd minute when Jorge Ordonez scored the opening goal assisted by Lenan Pepic but shortly after Queensborough scored in the 24th minute to tie the game. Both the Vikings and Tigers would go shot for shot in the first half.

The season kicked off with high hopes and plenty of enthusiasm. The Vikings pre-season training was intense, focusing on building fitness, refining techniques, and fostering team chemistry. With Coach Alfio’s guidance, the Vikings honed their strategies, setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable season.

Throughout the season, we faced tough opponents who challenged us in every match. One standout game was against our fiercest rival the Senators of SUNY Ulster. In a nail-biting encounter where we tied them at a score of 1-1, we highlighted resilience and skill to come back stronger. This match not only boosted our confidence but also solidified our bond as a team.

The Mid-Hudson Conference match was the culmination of our hard work and dedication. The stakes were higher than ever. Each match brought its own set of challenges, but our commitment never wavered. The team studied their opponent meticulously, adjusting their tactics to exploit the Senators weaknesses. The Vikings teamwork shone through as we executed their game plan flawlessly. Goals came from both seasoned players and newcomers, demonstrating their depth and versatility. When it all came down to the final minutes the game was a thrilling showdown, where we appeared victorious after a tremendous game winning goal by Oliver Tecuapetla. “It felt surreal winning the conference being the first Vikings team to win it since 2019 just makes the win 10x better,” said Oliver Tecuapetla. The atmosphere was electric, from the very first whistle, every player on the Vikings played with determination. As the final whistle blew, we realized the Vikings dream had became a reality. The roar of our supporters echoed in our ears as we lifted the championship plaque, a testament to our perseverance and unity. “It felt amazing especially able to do it with this team. How ever this team and I are still hungry, none of us are fully satisfied until we solidify ourselves in the history books of SUNY WCC and hold up the regional plaque and the national plaque,” said Zane Bramson.

Now you may be wondering what’s next for the Vikings after winning the conference title, “This is only the start of the war. Nothing is completed and nothing will be completed until we reach the very end! We plan to go onto Saturday and handle business like every other game,” said Jonathan Bautista. Winning the championship is not just an achievement; it is a steppingstone for the team. As they celebrate this victory, they are also setting their sights on the future. With a solid foundation in place, the Vikings are eager to gain the region 15 and National title this season and continue growing both as players and as a team. The Vikings defeated the Tigers on Saturday during the quarter finals with a score of 5-0 but the fight continued with a semi final on Wednesday October 30, 2024, as the Vikings go against the Sharks of Suffolk Community College. Unfortunately in a hard-fought game, the Vikings fell by a close score of 2-1.

Overall, the conference championship win is a testament to their journey—filled with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable memories. The Vikings are proud to be champions, and they look forward to what lies ahead. Every player keeps pushing to their limit and striving for excellence, both on and off the field!