Eagles’ players lauded

Both the Estancia High boys’ and girls’ soccer teams reached the CIF Southern Section playoffs out of the Golden West League, and players from both teams were honored for their accomplishments.

Senior Pedro Duarte, who led the Estancia boys’ soccer team in goals this season, was named the Golden West League’s Offensive Player of the Year. The forward scored twice in the Eagles’ 2-1 overtime victory over Santa Ana, clinching third place in the league standings.

Duarte headed a list of Eagles who were honored, including junior midfielder Denny Perdomo, junior defender Alex Salguero and freshman Jorge Olivas, who were All-Golden West League first-team picks. Defenders Robert Abarca and Luis Gallardo were second-team All-Golden West League selections.

Salguero was the instigator of a preseason running program that helped bring the team together as the season began.

For the Estancia girls, who made the CIF playoffs for the first time in 11 years, sophomore Stacy McDaniels and junior Bridget Gleason were All-Golden West League first-team selections. McDaniels dominated the midfield for the Eagles and Gleason was a stellar defender.

Sophomore Jennifer Thomas and junior Avery Williams were second-team picks. Thomas emerged as an offensive threat for the Eagles and Williams was a solid midfielder.