On Feb. 22, 2023, both the Parks boys’ and girls’ soccer teams won the championship! For weeks, both teams worked incredibly hard during practice as they pushed through canceled rainy practices and some very chilly days. However, all of their training paid off during the championship game at Buena Park High School. On that day, the weather was not on the Panthers’ side. It was about 60 degrees and windy, forcing many to bring blankets, giant coats, and hand warmers just to witness the match. The girls went first at 4:30 p.m. against Ladera Vista’s Spartans with the boys playing an hour later against Brea Junior High’s Bobcats. Both soccer games were incredibly tough, forcing both teams to give it their all. From start to finish, the players, coaches, Ms. Devin and Mr. Tony, the managers, and the crowd were full of adrenaline and anxiety. Ultimately, the Parks Panthers came out victorious with the girls winning 2-0 and the boys winning 3-0.

“It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t like tough tough… We struggled a little bit in the beginning because of the wind, but once we found our momentum it got easier,” said Kira Lee, one of the players on the girls’ soccer team. The boys’ team did amazing also despite having to play when it was darker out and against Brea, one of their toughest rivals. “We had the advantage because we had players that play soccer outside of school and we had better chemistry,” explained David Salgado. After both games, the Panthers received championship t-shirts and took photos with their new shiny trophies. Both teams ended the season undefeated in league play and became the All-City Champs!