Recently named the 2024 CIF title winner, the Varsity Boys Soccer Team at Mater Dei High School has proven to be a strong team that possesses immense talent. During their 2025 season, the Monarchs were second in the nation and second in California, overcoming tremendous obstacles and other talented teams.

The strong team owes much of their success to their incredible coaching staff who has helped lead them to victory numerous times. Varsity Coach Sean Ganey has been coaching the Mater Dei team for many years, and is very grateful for the time he has been able to contribute.

“I’m incredibly proud of this team and everything they’ve accomplished,” Ganey said. “Winning the CIF title was a testament to their hard work, dedication, and teamwork. I’m grateful to be part of this program and to coach such an exceptional group of young men. We’re excited to compete in the Trinity League and continue striving for excellence.” 

Over the course of the season, the Mater Dei program has over ninety players across all teams, consisting of freshman, sophomore, junior varsity, and varsity teams. The program also holds a summer camp for tryouts closer to the end of summer, allowing them to keep their skills up. Freshman Player Ralphi Macao, feels that he has gained a newfound sense of confidence through his training and is excited for future game days with his team.

“During training, we do a variety of things such as conditioning, ball control, and improving together,” Macao said. “This all helps us to win as a team.” 

Being involved in Boys Soccer has also granted Macao the opportunity to form deeper friendships not just on the field, but beyond. In order to further connect with his team, Macao makes an active effort to stay in touch even when the season isn’t currently in session. This is very important for the team’s successful season and chemistry on the field.

“We try to keep contact, have a group chat, and communicate as much as possible,” Macao said.

Junior Varsity player and freshman Zaylen Tran knows that soccer at Mater Dei is just not about the training, but also about their brotherhood. Tran holds gratitude for the deep sense of community within   Mater Dei Soccer and has formed several friendships in the program. 

“My teammates are some of my closest friends at Mater Dei,”  Tran said.

In addition to the sense of community and friendship the program has to offer, Tran has also learned a lot from Coach Carlos who coaches the Junior Varsity Team. He enjoys how his coach has taught him to be more aggressive, and to be more energized on the field.

“The coaching has improved my play, because I have gotten more aggressive,” Tran said.

The Varsity Boys Soccer Team is the highest level of soccer at Mater Dei High School. Senior Mike Pham made the varsity team as a senior with a strong work ethic. Pham has built a strong relationship with his teammates over the years and has found that tending to these friendships has made his experience more positive.

“Find a way to strengthen the relationship with your teammates,” Pham said. “Therefore, when it comes onto the field you guys can have great team chemistry and understanding of one another.” 

In addition to team bonding, Pham emphasizes the importance of discipline and preparation. He credits his success to consistent training and the guidance of his coaches, who have instilled in him the values of perseverance and commitment. 

“Hard work and discipline are the foundation of any great athlete,” Pham said. “Without them, it’s impossible to reach your full potential on the field.”

Varsity competition pushes players to their limits, but it also provides them with opportunities to develop resilience and leadership. Senior players like Pham take on mentorship roles for underclassmen, ensuring that the program remains strong for future seasons.

 “We have a responsibility to set an example for younger players,” Pham said. “Varsity is not just about winning games, but about building a legacy that younger teammates can carry forward.”

With a rigorous training schedule and high expectations, the varsity team continues to dominate in their league. Through their commitment to excellence, the players embody the school’s values of hard work, teamwork, and perseverance—key elements that have led them to success.