Senior Eduardo Villeda has committed to play soccer at the University of California, Santa Barbara. The Friars midfielder shared, “I chose UC Santa Barbara because I know I will succeed there. I trust the coaches and teachers that they will help me throughout my four years and will continue to push me to be the best version I can possibly become. I fell in love with the campus the very first time I visited my freshman year when we took a trip to Santa Barbara with the Servite varsity team and since then I always knew that if I had a chance to go there I wouldn’t let it slip away.”
Villeda continued, “UC Santa Barbara not only prepares you to play against other top level programs but also helps you become ready for the professional level. My dream is to play professional soccer one day and I know that the coaches will help me, guide me, and support me throughout my career in order to achieve that goal. I trust them and will work hard to make them proud during my time with the Gauchos.”
A four-year varsity letterman and starter for the Friars, Villeda is a 3x All-Trinity League selection earning 1st Team honors twice. He was also selected All-SCA in 2020 and All-CIF in 2021. Throughout his high school career he has played in 64 games tallying 20 goals and 18 assists with his senior season yet to be played. In addition, he has helped lead the team to Trinity League titles in 2019, 2020 and 2021 as well as the CIF-SS Division 1 Championship in 2020.
Coach Eddie Soto shared, “Eddie’s recent announcement comes with no surprise. As one of the top DI prospect for his class, UCSB has landed not just a top rated player, but a first class individual.”
Villeda is the first Friar from the talented senior class to announce his commitment but continues a long tradition of soccer players to move on to compete at the next level.
In closing Villeda shared, “I would like to thank my coaches, friends and family for everything they’ve done to get me to where I am today.”
