Soccer team improves, but still falls short

The Maricopa High School boys basketball team finished their season at 3-9, an improvement from last year’s season-long shut out.

Head Coach Jack Berg said the team made progress this season by distributing the ball as well as attacking the opponent’s goal. As the team’s overall play improved, however, Berg noted that other teams in the conference also improved hindering the Ram’s chance of winning more games.

“The second half of the season is much more challenging with the elements as well as the improved play of all the teams in our conference,” Berg said.

One of the players who enabled Maricopa to get its three wins was freshman goalie Armondo Cano. Cano was the only freshman in the 3A South Conference to earn All Conference Team honors. Berg said he will look to Cano to anchor the team’s defense next year.

Another team member Berg said he is looking forward to having on the team another year is Irving Garcia, led the team in scoring goals.

Berg said most of the team is expected to return next year, and that promising JV players will fill in for the graduating seniors.

“Next season should bring greater returns, given our level of experience, the teams’ familiarity with one another and the desire to be a part of the post season experience,” Berg said.

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