Senior Isaac Garcia looks to his role model for inspiration and guidance when preparing for important games, but that role model isn’t known for playing soccer. “I have always loved watching Vince Young because he plays with so much passion,” Isaac told me, referring to the talented football quarterback. “He plays like it’s his last game. I try to do that.”

“Ike,” as his teammates call him, plays left midfielder for the Wildcats and is weighing his options for next year. There’s a possibility he’ll play in college, but he’s also interested in Oklahoma State’s business school, he says. Since OSU has no men’s soccer program, that choice would end his soccer career.

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Isaac says being voted Captain of his Andromeda team his junior and senior years was his biggest honor. “Our team was close and they looked to me for leadership. It was all about college showcases our last two years, and we were the team to beat in tournament play. I am proud of that.”

Back at The Boneyard, Isaac knows he’s got a big supporter watching him in the stands. “My five-year-old brother Ian loves to come to all my games,” he says. “He chats with the fans and cheers me on. He can’t wait to play himself.”

Going into Tuesday night’s playoff game, Isaac knows he’s got a lot to live up to. “I went with my dad to the 2003 state finals to watch the Wildcats. I still remember that game, even though we lost, and remember how I looked up to those players. I want that feeling, that excitement, that atmosphere. That was a great team.”

“Winning district and going to the third round of playoffs was a big accomplishment,” he adds. “We have a lot of seniors and a lot of strong players. If we play like it’s our last game, I think we can make it back to state.” You can find out if he’s right Tuesday night at The Boneyard at 7:30 pm. Go Cats!