BOYS’ SOCCER PREVIEW:Newport coach expects special season

This senior class is the first Ryan Hernandez has seen all the way through the Newport Harbor High boys’ soccer program.

As Hernandez worked his way up the Sailors’ coaching ranks, the seniors did the same as players, making this a special season for him. Hernandez is in his fourth year coaching Newport Harbor, which he started as the freshmen-sophomore coach.

This season Hernandez, who graduated from Newport Harbor in 2000, brought in former Sailors’ teammate Tyson Wahl, a professional soccer player with the Kansas City Wizards, to assist as the team transitions from CIF Southern Section Division II to Division I by joining the Sunset League.

It all has brought the team closer together.

“Everyone believes in the cause,” Hernandez said. “Biggest thing this year is attitude-wise we’re a real close group. They look up to Tyson a lot.”

Hernandez said his confidence in Wahl, who is a defender, will be a boost to the team.

“This guy is actually doing the stuff he’s telling them to do,” Hernandez said. “He concentrates on the back line. I’m pretty open when it comes to input. Not always the best players make the best coaches, but he’s doing really well.”

Hernandez said he has 12 or 13 players competing for the 11 starting spots.

On defense for the Sailors, junior Cory Hanley returns for his second season on varsity playing on the left side.

“He’s a starter and I don’t see anyone taking his spot,” Hernandez said.

In the center of the defense will be senior Kyle Rohan, one of the Sailors’ captains. Senior Danny Gonzalez and senior captain Nathan Petty will complete the four defender set, with senior Colton Parks competing for time.

Junior Garret Heiser, who has been on varsity since he was a freshman, will play center midfield and is following in the footsteps of his brothers Clayton and Cliff who both played for Newport Harbor.

Junior Will Reichenstein and senior Ulises Vega will also play in the midfield.

“I’m looking for Ulises to have a big year,” Hernandez said. “He’s real great with the ball. He’s a key player for us.”

Sophomore Evan Walker, sophomore Chris Celis and senior captain Brian Siemonsma will handle the offensive duties.

“Chris takes all of the free kicks,” Hernandez said. “He’s a great little player and he’s only a sophomore.”

Siemonsma is healthy after breaking his collar bone last season.

The Sailors play host to Irvine today at 5 p.m. and Corona del Mar Friday at 5 p.m.