Pioneer Valley High School senior Rigoberto Maldonado is a man of few words.
He lets his play on the soccer field do the talking.
The soft-spoken striker has compiled five goals during the Panthers’ blazing-hot 4-1 start to the winter season, including a two-goal effort on Dec. 8 against crosstown rival Santa Maria High School in a 3-2 victory.
“It was probably one of the best games he’s played in his life,” said Pioneer Valley head coach Alan Brafman.
Brafman and Maldonado agreed that his most impressive goal of the bunch was his first against Santa Maria. Maldonado trapped an incoming cross from the wing and, before the ball hit the ground, volleyed it into the net over the Saints’ goalkeeper.
Maldonado explained that he was able to time his run perfectly for the cross on that goal due to his strong connection with his teammates.
“I’ve just bonded with the team and they know what to do,” he said, adding that the most important part of the Santa Maria game was getting the win: “It helps us get more confident and comfortable playing harder teams.”
According to Brafman, Maldonado has an uncanny knack for being in the right place at the right time in a soccer game. He has a good feel for what’s going to happen.
“He always makes the right runs,” Brafman said. “He’s sneaky.”
Maldonado isn’t a guy who will deliver inspirational speeches before games. He’s a quiet teammate but extremely focused and reliable.
“He’s composed and never complains,” Brafman said. “He’s a great kid and a good guy to be around for the younger kids.”
With Pioneer Valley off to a strong start to the season, Maldonado said he’s looking forward to the Panthers making a CIF playoff run. They play Simi Valley on Dec. 28 before kicking off PAC 8 league play against Mission Prep on Jan. 3.
Maldonado’s also hopeful that his strong play will make an impression on college scouts this winter.
“I’m hoping they notice,” he said. “I’m trying to do my best to get picked up.”
This article appears in Dec 21-28, 2017.