Greg Aviles has headed Yorba Linda’s girls soccer program since the school opened in 2009, and each season begins with him addressing the team’s goals.
Those goals have never changed, as Aviles makes it his mission to produce confident players who are also great students, and then having them translate that success to the soccer field.
This season was filled with success for the Mustangs (15-6-3), who experienced many highs, including playing in the CIF-SS Division 3 final.
For his efforts, Aviles has been selected the Register’s girls soccer coach of the year.
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ALL-COUNTY GIRLS SOCCER
• All-County girls soccer: First team
• Girls soccer player of the year: Danielle Solaru, Northwood
• Girls soccer coach of the year: Greg Aviles, Yorba Linda
• All-County girls soccer: Second, third teams
• 2015-16 All-CIF girls soccer teams
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A crucial point in Yorba Linda’s season came in its come-from-behind victory over Esperanza, 3-2, in a North Hills League game on Feb. 3. The Aztecs, who were ranked No. 4 in the county at the time, held a 2-0 when Aviles gathered his players for a talk at halftime.
“You can look at it as being down 2-0, or you can change your perspective to see that this is an opportunity to write a fantastic story,” Aviles recalled telling his players.
The Mustangs scored twice in the final two minutes of regulation. Taylor Asciak tied the score with seconds remaining, and Georgia Lodge netted the winner in overtime.
“To see an obstacle and to overcome something that some might see as insurmountable, that’s the true test to confidence and character,” Aviles added.
Yorba Linda’s confidence and character appeared to grow stronger as the season wore on. The Mustangs pulled out two penalty-kick victories in the playoffs, and they had a come-from-behind win against San Luis Obispo in the semifinals.
That determined spirit helped Yorba Linda reach its first CIF-SS championship game, which ended in a loss, 2-1, to South Hills of West Covina.
Aviles said a team’s success is dependent on strong relationships, and he strives to make sure every player knows they matter.
“We always tell the kids that teams can move on with or without you,” he said “… but it will never be the same if you’re not with us.”
