Senior Jesus Melgoza has committed to play soccer at Loyola Marymount University. The Friars’ midfielder shared, “When it came down to choosing where I wanted to be, LMU checked all boxes in what I looked for in a college and soccer program. The coaching staff is amazing and genuinely cares about me as a player and wants to see me succeed.”
He went on to say, “Throughout the recruitment process, the coaching staff was straightforward and told me how I fit well in their system. With COVID happening, my chances to play at the next level, in general, were slim, yet the coaches went out of their way to create a way for me to attend LMU the upcoming season. That is what sold it for me, I knew I was going to be part of a program where I will be treated well.
Melgoza added, “Talking to Corbin Mercado ’18 (current Lions defender) was also a plus because they develop a sense of brotherhood, just as at Servite, where each player cares about one another and works together to become the best.”
A four-year varsity letterman for the Servite, Melgoza has compiled quite the resume during his high school career with his senior season yet to be played. He is a 2x 1st Team All-Trinity League selection while earning 1st Team All-CIF and All-Orange County honors in 2020. In addition, he was named Trinity League Offensive MVP following his junior campaign after tallying 13 goals and nine assists. To date, he has played in 68 games for the Friars recording 24 goals and 22 assists. Besides his individual accolades, he helped lead the squad to their 5th, 6th and 7th consecutive Trinity League titles as well as the school’s second CIF-SS Championship in 2020.
Coach Eddie Soto shared, “I’m extremely happy to see Jesus land at LMU. I believe the WCC will suit him well. His athleticism and determination will fit in well with a program that’s on the rise. Congratulations Jesus, we’re all very proud of you!”
Melgoza, who plans study Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business at LMU, is also involved with the Admissions committee at Servite working as a student ambassador while serving as a peer minister for confirmation classes at Holy Family.
Melgoza is the second Servite soccer player from the Class of 2021 to announce his college decision joining Christian Hodson who is headed to Point Loma. He also becomes the fifth Friar since 2015 to play for the Lions.
In closing Melgoza added, “Gracias padre y madre por todo el apoyo. Los amo muchisimo y siempre estan en mi corazon. Thank you dad and mom for all the support. I love you all tons and you will always be in my heart. Thank you coaches for developing me into the player and individual I am today, words cannot express how grateful I am to have you guys help me throughout this process. Lastly, shoutout to the Krause family, I would not be where I am without you. Love you all.”
