On Jan. 24, the UHS stadium saw a much higher attendance than the average varsity soccer game. That was because it was senior night, a time to celebrate the seniors and all their contributions to the program. The Trojans faced Irvine High School, with the Trojans looking to extend their seven-game winning streak. 

The Trojans started off strong, with senior Mounir Albakri crossing the ball from the corner of the field to senior Simon Hodgkinson, who slotted it away for the opening goal in the 18th minute. 

“I feel like I have finally adjusted to the Uni way and our team’s tactics,” Hodgkinson said. “I hope to continue my good form throughout the rest of the season and into CIF.” 

A few minutes later, Albakri got the ball in the right-hand corner again, this time opting to cross it in the air. This time, it was junior Jake Rabold, the team’s top goal scorer, on the receiving end, finishing the chance to give the Trojans a 2-0 lead by the 24th minute. 

Rabold extended his goal streak to five consecutive games, strengthening his role as the team’s starting striker and pushing some seniors to the bench. 

“I just trusted my teammates to get me the ball, and I did my best to do my job,” Rabold said. 

While the Trojans built an early lead, they strengthened to build on it as the Vaqueros gained more possession. Irvine repeatedly threatened to get back into the game, but University held on until the end for the win. 

After the match, the seniors were celebrated in a ceremony. The junior varsity and freshman players lined up to make a pathway for the varsity players, who walked through with their family as the announcer recapped their high school careers, favorite moments and post-graduation plans. 

They were cheered on for the fantastic season they have been having, with their next game coming in the CIF on Feb. 13.