As a freshman forward for Providence High School, Leo Mendoza initially played with caution. Early in his debut season, Mendoza often deferred to veteran teammates. This approach has evolved.
“During the first few games, I thought the juniors and seniors were better than me because they were older,” Mendoza explained. “Coach Mike Taylor helped me focus on my role in helping the team. He advised, ‘Don’t pass it when there’s no need.’”
On Monday night, Mendoza applied this advice, scoring an early goal in a 2-1 loss to the Maroons in the Class 2A Chicago U-High Sectional semifinal. Aldo Dominguez provided the assist, while Aleksander Chavez made 10 saves for Providence (17-6-2).
Alexander Yamini scored both of U-High’s goals, securing their spot in the final against top-seeded Lemont.
Mendoza scored in the 20th minute. He reached the far post to receive a pass from Dominguez and managed to sneak his shot past the goalkeeper.
“We practiced similar scenarios, and in that moment, I did what we trained for,” Mendoza said. “I saw Aldo running. Nobody was behind me, so I took action.”
Coach Taylor appreciated Mendoza’s initiative. “Leo was our only freshman,” Taylor noted. “He learned a lot this year. I told him, ‘Just because they call for the ball, doesn’t mean you must pass.’ He is beginning to understand that.”
In a game capture, Providence’s Billy Savarino faces off against Santiago Bravo from Chicago U-High.
Monday marked Mendoza’s third goal of the season. Chavez commended Mendoza’s impact. “He has changed our dynamic,” Chavez stated. “Last year, we lacked depth on the bench. He stepped in as a freshman. We’re excited to see his growth.”
Chavez, a sophomore, joins Mendoza among the promising young players for Providence, which had only three seniors.
Looking forward, Chavez asserted the need for improvement. “We have to return stronger. We need to be more determined. Working as a team is essential.”
Yamini equalized in the 29th minute, later netting the winner with over 24 minutes left. Despite the defeat, Taylor praised his team’s resilience, especially without lead scorer Jovanny Gonzalez.
“I told the team we are not just about one player. They proved it against a strong, unbeaten team,” Taylor said.
A photo shows Mendoza celebrating his goal against U-High.
Providence secured a regional title for the second time in three years after a lengthy drought. Mendoza envisions further success ahead.
“We’ll come back stronger next season,” Mendoza said. “I have three more years with this group, and I’m eager to see what we achieve together.”