Freshman Leo Mendoza Emerges as Key Player for Providence Celtics

Leo Mendoza joined Providence’s varsity soccer team as a freshman and initially deferred to older teammates. Early in the season, Mendoza focused on passing rather than taking the initiative. That approach shifted after some advice from his coach, Mike Taylor.

Mendoza explained, “Especially during the first few games, as a freshman, I just thought the juniors and seniors were more superior to me and I had to listen to them. But my coach helped me think more about how I could help the team. He told me, ‘Don’t pass it when there’s no need to.’”

Applying this advice, Mendoza scored an early goal against the Maroons on Monday night. Despite his opening goal, Providence lost 2-1 in the Class 2A Chicago U-High Sectional semifinal. Aldo Dominguez provided the assist while Aleksander Chavez recorded 10 saves for Providence, which now has a record of 17-6-2.

For the Maroons, Alexander Yamini scored twice, helping them advance to the sectional final against top-seeded Lemont on Friday. However, Mendoza’s goal in the 20th minute caused concern for the Maroons. He cleverly positioned himself at the far post, received Dominguez’s pass, and scored. Reflecting on the play, Mendoza said, “During practices, we’ve been working on these drills, and in this moment, those drills just reminded me what I’m supposed to do, what my job is.”

Coach Taylor expressed pride in Mendoza’s decision to shoot. “Leo is the only freshman we had this year,” Taylor remarked. “He’s very raw and he’s got a lot of potential. I told him, ‘Just because the guys call for the ball, don’t give it up to them.’ He learned that he can take action on his own.”

Mendoza’s goal marked his third of the season, earning praise from Chavez, who acknowledged the impact Mendoza has made as a freshman. “He’s made a huge difference on our team,” Chavez stated. “Last year, we didn’t really have any strikers on the bench. He stepped up and he’s just a freshman, so I can’t wait to see what happens in the future from him.”

Chavez, a sophomore, is part of a mostly young team, with only three seniors on the roster. Providence’s Aldo Dominguez also played a crucial role in the semifinal game.

Despite the loss, the Celtics remain determined. “We’ve got to come back stronger,” Chavez declared. “We’ve got to want it more. We’re just going to be a team and keep working.”

The Maroons secured victory with Yamini’s goals, yet Taylor praised his team’s resilience despite missing their leading scorer, Jovanny Gonzalez. “I told the guys we’re more than a one-man team and they showed that,” Taylor said. “I’m proud of the way they all battled against a really good team that’s undefeated for a reason.”

Providence’s effort in securing a regional title this season represents progress, marking their second title in three years after a six-year drought. Looking ahead, Mendoza shared an optimistic outlook. “I know we’re going to come back better next season,” Mendoza concluded. “I’ve got three more years left and I can’t wait to spend them with all these guys.”