Delta’s Men’s soccer team completed its season by winning the Big 8 Conference title in the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA). The victory, a second time in the team’s history, establishes the Mustangs’ position as the top team in the league.
Led by Head Coach Joshua Bradley, the team displayed dominance throughout the conference, ending the season with 13 wins, seven ties and three losses.
Even though the Mustangs triumphed in the Big 8 Conference, the team’s road to victory was anything but easy.
Teamwork and support from the coaching staff was key.
“The challenges were daily. Injuries and illness are always challenging, balancing training, diet, hydration, and travel. I believe the team was able to overcome many of the challenges by having a supportive coaching staff and athletic department. Brandon Masai, James Burns, Ivan Ramirez were instrumental as assistant coaches, as well as Susanna Cruz, our resource specialist, Eric Pardee, Suzanne Huerta, Roxanne Brava-Nobel and athletic Director Tony Espinoza. The family type environment we have developed was able to tackle the challenges head on and persevere, said Bradley.
Several Mustangs received individual recognition for outstanding performances during the season.
Jesus Rios was named Big 8 Midfielder of the Year, while Franco Barba earned Big 8 Goalkeeper of the Year honors. Juan Gallegos, Hayden Beier, Jesus Rios, and Niklas Bissig were selected for the First-Team All-League.
Ivan Guerra, Ricardo Iniguez, Sebastian Cervantes, and Jasha Vszary were named to the Second-Team All-League.
Bradley was also recognized as the Big 8 Championship Head Coach, reflecting the team’s overall success and strong leadership throughout the season.
Freshman midfielder Niklas Bissig, originally from Switzerland, expressed his pride in contributing to the Mustangs’ historic season.
“It felt amazing. It really showed myself that the hard work can pay off,” Bissig said.
Bissig also reflected on his journey as an international student.
“I felt quite valuable because it is not usual for the Mustangs to go to the playoffs, and it was only the second time we won the championship. I felt that I could really impact the team, which made me proud,” he said.
Sophomore goalkeeper Barba reflected on achieving a personal milestone this season.
“Before I came to Delta College, I set several goals for myself. One was to be able to make my team a champion,” Barba said. “The truth is that I feel very proud of myself and my team for giving 100% in every game.”
The Mustangs’ season came to an end in the first round of the CCCAA playoffs with a 5-1 loss to Las Positas. While the playoff run was cut short, the team’s Big 8 Conference title and numerous individual honors remain key highlights of a memorable season.
