The DeKalb County High School Tigers soccer team were at home last week, playing their final regular season game before advancing to the district tournament in Livingston this week.
Just before the game, Tiger seniors were recognized and honored, with friends and family looking on. Those recognized were Josef “Clutch” Osment, Luke Jenkins, Brian Alfredo Balderas, Brandon “The Bone Collector” Matias, Carlos Havier “Carnitas” Solano, and Jasper Kleparek.
During the ceremony, a letter was read from Head Coach Dylan Kleparek to the seniors. The letter read:
“I am so proud of you and grateful that I have had the opportunity to be your coach. The past four years have been an adventure in which I have seen you grow into wonderful young men. From the hard working freshmen that were quick to learn, to the sophomores that won the championship cup at Gatlinburg.
“Then COVID came as juniors, and we lost our season. Although we were technically district champions 1-0, it was a rough time in our adventure. However, we came back with a great senior year.
“I am so proud of the way you guys have led the team and brought these young talented players together to play the Tiger way. I look forward to all of the great things that are to come for this great group of guys and encourage you to take the life lessons that you have learned and use them every day.
“Never give up, work hard for what you want, and keep the most important thing the most important thing.”
As the game began, the team was fired up. They were ready to play and wanted a win against Jackson County to end the regular season. They would get their wish.
DeKalb put two points on the board in the first half, with Yair Mata finding the net both times. His first goal came with 24 minutes left in the half, with an assist by Miguel Mata. His second came with just four minutes left in the half, this time with Cameron Miller assisting.
The Tigers would repeat in the second half with two more goals. This time Miguel Mata struck with 27 minutes left to play, with an assist by Miller. Then, it was Brandon Matias' turn, striking with 11 minutes in the game and an assist by Jaxon Humphrey. DeKalb would hold Jackson scoreless for the 4-0 shutout.
Goalie Luke Jenkins had three saves in the game, while Miguel Mata had one.
