After watching his daughter compete in cheerleading for Newberg High School and eventually graduating in 2023, Carlos Villarroel knew he wanted in, intrigued by what he described as a dedicated staff of teachers and coaches.
“After that experience, I knew that I wanted to be a part of the Tiger family and continue in the strong tradition of Newberg sports,” Villarroel, who’s in his first year at the helm of the girls soccer program, said. “Being a head coach is more than just soccer, it's an opportunity to connect and make an impact in the community. High school kids go through so many challenges in life. It's an honor to be a resource and help guide them through their high school career.”
Villarroel was hired after being involved in soccer for decades, including 10 years spent coaching at the recreational and competitive levels. He most recently was the head coach for the U14 girls team of Chehalem Valley Soccer Club (formerly known as Newberg Youth Soccer).
“After a coaching search that included interviews with multiple candidates, (Villarroel) was the clear choice as the best fit to take over the girls soccer program,” Newberg athletic director Mark Brown said in a press release back in April.
Villarroel takes over after a decent campaign where the Tigers finished 6-5-4 overall and 1-3-2 in league, sitting fifth in the Pacific Conference standings. Newberg qualified for the 6A state playoffs, losing to West Linn 4-0 in the first round.
Previewing Newberg girls soccer 2024 conference schedule
With 16 potential returners — including four all-league selections in 2023 — Villarroel inherits a roster he believes is talented enough to be in the mix for a Pacific Conference title.
“We have such a talented group of players with so many different assets on the pitch,” Villarroel said. “Gracie Hess and Alyssa Tapia-Stockwell were first team all-league last year. They will carry that momentum into this year with a very strong back four and Taylor Williams protecting the goal. Mid-fielders Ella Harris and Adele Gregory will look to support both sides of the field.”
Newberg’s first official contest of the season is on the road against South Salem on Thursday, Sept. 5. The Tigers home-opener is Thursday, Sept. 12, against Sunset.
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