In winter, Tigers JV soccer team played against Coastal Christian at Talley Fields under the great coaching of Steven Arata. Image courtesy of sophomore Max Theodore.

  With the San Luis Obispo High School Junior Varsity boys soccer team finished with the Tiger Junior Olympics, this soccer program has finished for the year.

  Taking place on the practice field and in the small gym, it was managed by the math teacher by day and soccer coach by night Steven Arata. Not only did they play to a great record, some of his players managed the tournament, where CL Smith ultimately won the boys’ indoor and outdoor sections.

  Arata is playing a big role, not just in this season, but the next. This season was very historic, with the Varsity Tigers sadly failing to defend their league title, but they also made an incredible CIF run, getting second in CIF Division 3 and getting knocked out in the first round of the SoCal CIF Playoffs. Arata’s coaching at the frosh and JV levels has been instrumental in developing the varsity program. 

  Expressions decided to get an interview with Arata so that he could fully detail the situation. 

Expressions: What is your role as a coach?

Boys JV soccer coach Steven Arata:  As JV coach, I prepare athletes to be the future of the program, and it’s a perfect situation to develop players even further.

Expressions: Why is JV important?

Arata: In the future, the players selected will likely play on varsity, and for now, it’s up to me to make sure they have the mental and technical ability to do so. 

Expressions: How did you help players improve throughout the year?

Arata: This season, I tried to include everyone and select a time for all players. 

Expressions: Why is it important to keep soccer fun?

Arata: At this critical stage of a player’s development, it’s important to keep passion alive to avoid burning up. 

Arata hopes to build a strong team with love for the game. This will ensure that the Men’s Varsity Soccer team will remain top quality and in the near future, that San Luis can effectively compete for prestigious trophies