GOAAALLLLLL! Scoring into Sunset at Jag Cup!
April 3, 2023
With the very first steps taken into the stadium, a wave of euphoric feelings with the passion of soccer greets the audience. The 2023 Jag Cup brings out the unity of Charter through 4 v. 4 games of soccer and a battle for the title of the victors.
Before teams were even strung together, the making behind this event involved a certain club. The Spanish Honor Society (SHS) is and has been the backbone of this annual event for years. Since the initial announcement of SHS’s annual Jag Cup, the ears of students perk up with after the recent 2022 World Cup in mind and the chance to feel that nostalgia once again.
The Spanish Honor Society’s goal throughout the making of this event was to spread the love and warmth that is Hispanic culture. Vice President, Valerie Glen, says “Soccer is a very important part of Hispanic culture as it is a common hobby for many kids in those countries. It also allows us to demonstrate what our club values and represents.” With the idea of people coming together to share the connection felt between playing soccer, the night of March 31st was on track for success.
Once the clock struck 6:00 on Friday, March 31st, students from all grades put on their game faces and were ready to fight for the title of Jag Cup champions. One look around the stadium, eyes are met with posters being held up by supportive friends, parents cheering in the crowds, and students jumping up and down ecstatic with the view. This visual is later followed by commentary from junior, Ryan Romero, with funny, yet informative remarks on the teams.
With cheers from the crowd and viewers antsy with anticipation for the winners, student spectators lined up along the fence to watch the final teams go against one another. The first team, The Holy Ones, consisted of PPCHS Varsity Soccer Captain and senior, Alexander Champagne, junior Rafael De Almeida, and 3 freshmen: Lucas Prandini, Julian Iodice, and Noah Lewis. They were followed by The Generals played by mostly juniors such as Alex Hershey, Nicholas Prandini, Shiloh Corbie, and more.
With the whistle blown by student referee, senior Adam Abougendia, the final game commenced as the cheers of staff, students, and family followed. The 8 minutes were followed by a strict intensity and determination from both teams where The Holy Ones scored 2 goals. Screams followed with the celebration of the victorious team as The Holy Ones were the official winners of the 2023 Jag Cup tournament. “Winning my first Jag Cup as a freshman was one of the greatest experiences. Being able to show my skills on the field as a freshman was beyond me,” says winning team member, Lucas Prandini.
Friends and family all ran to the field to congratulate both teams after a very entertaining game. Radiating smiles spread throughout the field as the winning team gathered for a photo. The night ended with Hispanic culture flowing through each of the players and audience members as they united for a night of fun and games.
