Posted: Sat, 15 Jan 2011 11:17 AM - 11,752 Readers

By: Chris Dukes

A new district and a new sense of resolve are the two biggest factors for the 2011 Mustang Soccer team.

The resolve — an attitude toward redeeming themselves from a disappointing finish to 2010. The district — a loaded group that sees traditional power Lake Travis joined by Vista Ridge, a team coming off a 5A playoff run in 2010, and Cedar Park another 5A team from last year that is no stranger to postseason success in its program.

Add in talented newcomers Vandegrift and Rouse and what you get is a district where no game will come easy for the ‘Stangs in 2011.

It’s a good thing the Mustangs come in with more talent than they have in recent memory, according to coach Michael Nave.

Senior Jamie Hernadez was voted the top midfielder in all District 49-4A a year ago. Both Jeronimo Aguilar and Joel Chavez were first-team players as well.

Woaquin Macias and Ruben Contreras were both second-team all district last season, and Omar Sanchez, German Garcia, and Uriel Solorzano were all Honorable Mention.

In fact, of the 10 players honored by the district a year ago, nine of them return to the lineup in 2011.

Joaquin Macias will move into the goalie position, one of only two new starters for the ‘Stangs.

The Mustangs get an early test in 2011 when they host their own Marble Falls Winter Classic today and tomorrow. The pool includes Hendrickson — a district foe a year ago, Killen-Shoemaker, and Copperas Cove. After pool play concludes, bracket play will begin at 1:30 p,m. Saturday.

*  Story Contributed by: Chris Dukes