Five from WCHS soccer named to all-district team

By DALE STUBBLEFIELD / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Oscar Rodriguez, who was named District 7-AAA’s defensive MVP for his performance with the Pioneers this season, handles the ball against Lebanon in this file photo. (Rob Nunley photo)

The season ended early for the Pioneer soccer team, but five players were rewarded for their efforts this season with All-District 7-AAA honors Wednesday night at Murfressboro.

Selected to the first team all-district were Bobby Simpson and Saul Simpson, while Tony Garibaldi and Jose Macias made the second team.

This year the coaches decided to give out MVP honors to both an offensive player and a defensive player, and the Pioneers’ Oscar Rodriguez was named the district defensive MVP for his performance at mid-fielder.

“I’m very pleased with five of our guys getting recognized,” said coach Keith Hamilton. “It’s not only a great honor for them as individuals, but its and honor for the team and the program.

“Macias is one of the best stoppers in our district, and his play has been steady all year. Garibaldi led the team in scoring with nine goals and was very impressive as a freshman. Both of these guys were at the top of the district coaches list.

“Bobby and Saul both had great seasons. Saul is a solid sweeper, and his defense kept us in a lot of games. Bobby is a great utility player, he can play any position and do a good job at each one of them.

“Oscar is just a great player. He was a unanimous pick by the coaches. His mid-field play was tremendous all year, and he worked very hard. Being named an MVP in this district is a great honor and they couldn’t have picked a better player.”