In June 2006, Animo Leadership Charter School's Rafael Baca could think of only one thing - making the most of his last summer before his high school senior year. Among Rafael's plans was winning the L.A. Watts Summer Games Soccer Tournament and getting himself into top physical and academic shape to impress college recruiters.
According to his coach Sergio Medrano, "Rafael Baca was an exceptional student-athlete from the South Bay. He, like many others, benefitted from programs such as the LA Watts Summer Games. After graduating from Animo Leadership Charter HS in Inglewood in 2007, he accepted a scholarship to play Division 1 soccer at LMU (Loyola Marymount University). He made his education a priority and parlayed that with a professional contract from the San Jose Earthquakes of the MLS. He is a role model for many young players wishing to follow in his footsteps."
Rafa, as he is known to his family, friends and now fans, did not succeed in winning the LAWSG Soccer trophy. After one of the most exciting finals in recent LAWSG Soccer history, Amino was edged out by Paramount High School. He did, however, assist Animo in 2007 in obtaining its first CIF Championship and undefeated season. Along the way Rafa received numerous accolades.
His senior season included All-CIF, All-State, All-Harbor League, All-Area and All-City teams. He scored 58 goals during his high school career.
Rafa, a three-time First-Team All-West Coast Conference selection, completed his LMU career as the No. 2 leader in career games played (79), shots (213), and assists (19). His 57 points is No. 3 all-time at LMU, and his 19 goals are fourth-best in a career. He was also LMU’s captain for his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons, and was twice honored as the WCC Player of the Week.
Just like at Animo, Rafael’s senior season at LMU was full of honors. He was selected to the Second Team of TopDrawerSoccer.com's National Team of the Season and was an NSCAA Third-Team All-American. Baca was also selected to the NSC First Team All-Far West Region. Baca’s eight assists led the West Coast Conference and tied him for second-most all-time at LMU. He also chipped in with three goals for a total of 14 points, fifth in the WCC.
During his junior season, Baca was named to the Goal.com All-America First Team, and was one of 30 players selected for the MAC Hermann Trophy Watch List, an award given to the best collegiate player of the year.
The midfielder has been training with the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer since mid-February and has appeared in three games for the San Jose Reserves so far this season, getting the start in two of them.
Congratulations to Rafael for demonstrating success both on the pitch and in the classroom!
