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Hollister Tremors goalkeeper Juan Luna traveled to Ellicott City, Maryland, where he won the National Keeper Wars tournament held on July 30-Aug. 4.
The 17-year-old Hollister High student competed against eight other goalkeepers in the tournament, finishing first in his age group.
“When we showed up, the competition was pretty tough,” Luna’s coach Tanya Talavera said.
Despite the high-level and intense competition, Talavera said she knew Luna could win the tournament.
“I didn’t know how he prepared mentally, but I just told him, ‘We came because we know you can win,’” Talavera said.
Five days later, Luna was hoisting the first-place trophy in front of his coach and her family, who made the journey to Maryland with him because his parents were unable to attend.
“We got there and he did what he had to do,” Talavera said.
Talavera also said Luna was a fan favorite at the tournament, attracting attendees and fellow goalkeepers to his matchups.
The tournament gave Luna his first opportunity to travel outside California. He described Maryland as “peaceful but hot.”
Although his parents could not make the journey with him, Luna said they were constantly following his progress throughout the tournament. He said his parents were happy that he traveled so far and won the tournament.
Because there is no Tremors team for Luna’s age group this year, he will play for San Jose Rush Soccer Club in the upcoming season.
The BenitoLink Internship Program is a paid, skill-building program that prepares local youth for a professional career. This program is supported by Monterey Peninsula Foundation AT&T Golf Tour and Taylor Farms.
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