Dela Fuente, the River Valley Democrat-Gazette Boys Soccer Newcomer of the Year, made an impact right away scoring 14 goals while being a key contributor for the Pointers to make it to the semifinals of the Class 5A state tournament for a fifth consecutive season.
"What is impressive about him is he is very, very good in the midfield," Van Buren boys soccer Coach Nathan Almond said. "He can pick a ball up and dribble at you. He's phenomenal. If you get him a ball and a little bit of space, he'll make some good moves and finish. He's not as good as he's going to be. He's only going to grow."
Dela Fuente, who earned all-state honors, was a scoring threat from the moment he stepped on the field despite playing in his first ever varsity season. Highlights included two-goal games against Harrison and Greenwood early in the season then later scoring again against Harrison and providing a key goal against Alma on the road in a rivalry win.
"It was a great season and experience as a freshman," Dela Fuente said. "It was awesome with all my teammates and friends. It felt really good to play at a high level all season. I felt like I was at the top of my game. I hope the next one is even better."
Making the state tournament out of the loaded 5A-West is never an easy task. Athletes go their entire careers without playing in the postseason, but Dela Fuente was able to experience that just in year one for him helping build on the program's tradition.
"The state tournament was another great experience again just as a freshman," Dela Fuente said. "It was very good to make it to the semis. We are proud of that. I started playing when I was 5 years old and from there I started playing travel ball with some friends. I got really into it because it was competitive. It means a lot wearing this jersey. I love this community. It was awesome to see everybody watching our games."
Dela Fuente was one of four freshmen to start for Van Buren (14-9, 9-5) this season. His impact was virtually equal to fellow freshman Said Mendez, who was awarded the River Valley Democrat-Gazette Boys Soccer Player of the Year. That has his coach excited for the future.
"With four freshmen starting and a lot of sophomores playing, next year should be better," Almond said. "Santiago will play a big role in that. You can't predict the future with the teams around us. But regardless of that, we'll be a better team next year. It doesn't always reflect that in where you finish though. There's no question this team is going forward. They are young, working hard and have the right attitude. I'm really proud of this group. We are starting again in July and they are already ready to go. ... Click here to read full article
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