Samira Li

Senior captain Christian Vargas

Throughout his high school career, senior Christian Vargas has left his mark on the Boys Varsity Soccer team. After an impressive start to the season, with five goals scored over the course of seven matches, Christian now aims to lead his team to the playoffs and beyond, while taking on the role of senior captain. 

Christian first began playing soccer at the age of four, but it wasn’t until later in life, during his time with DV7 Soccer Academy, when he truly “fell in love with the sport.” 

He played for his middle school team, helping them make the playoffs, win the Queens championship, and reach city finals.

In the past, Christian has also played for North Star Soccer Academy and RVD Football Club, noting that he has always “looked forward to playing in bigger, out-of-state tournaments.” 

As captain, Christian is responsible for helping his teammates in any way he can both on and off the field. “My job is to make sure every player feels at ease within our atmosphere, and that they can express their true self, which will lead to better performance overall,” he said. “I must display a leaders’ personality, transmitting confidence to my teammates through every single moment throughout the season.”

While speaking with The Classic, Christian’s teammates showed nothing but high praise and respect for their senior captain. “Christian is a leader and always has been since the start. He’s one of our captains who is strong and has a top tier mentality,” said junior captain Sergio Luna. 

Adding to this, senior Sebastian Morales, the team’s manager, said, “On the field, Christian fights for every ball, hustling through defenders, serving as an amazing example for his teammates. Off the field, he is a hard worker, pushing his teammates to their max effort, while motivating them throughout the whole journey.” 

Additionally, coaches and teammates highlighted Christian’s growth throughout the years both as a player and person. “Christian started off as a freshman who didn’t talk much. He was a little kid, but had some soccer skill and he’s developed year after year into a strong, energetic, and vocal captain,” said Coach Matthew Curiale. 

Similarly, sophomore captain August Krauskopf said, “Last year Christian was really quiet and didn’t talk that much on the field. This year though, he’s really stepped up into his captain role and has been very uplifting to all of our guys.”

During the offseason, Christian spends his days playing pick-up soccer with friends and training with his club teams in the afternoons. “When it comes to playing the game, Christian runs it,” said Sergio. “He’s perfectly mastered that midfield position and he’s one of our best players.”

Christian shared some challenges he had to overcome in order to get to the point he is at today. “The most challenging moment of my career was coming back from COVID-19, as many my age had improved massively through their time spent playing by themselves, while I simply didn’t give it enough time..I struggled mentally on and off the field, and soccer began feeling forced rather than something I was passionate about,” he said..

Approaching the end of his high school career, Christian now has his eyes set on the future, as he navigates through the recruitment process. “Soccer is something that I’ve always pursued as a kid, with the dream of one day being a professional,” said Christian.  

His focus is now on college soccer teams and obtaining scholarships. Adding to this, he said, “I see myself playing for many years after high school –  in college first, and then from there, striving for more.”