After clinching the Coastal Canyon League title, Oak Park High School’s varsity boys soccer team is heading into the CIF playoffs with confidence. The varsity seniors are determined to finish what they started.
“The team preaches being a family,” senior Cole Mitchell said. “In the locker room we are always hyped up, playing music and chatting. Going into the playoffs this year we are excited and confident in going farther than in previous years.”
Mitchell led Oak Park in scoring this season with 18 goals. Senior Carson Casella followed close behind with 17 goals, forming one of the most productive scoring duos in the Coastal Canyon League. Senior Rastin Houshmound led the team in assists with 17, serving as a key playmaker throughout this Eagles’ season.
The team entered this year with uncertainty coming off a less successful season, however the presence of a larger senior class provided stability and experience.
“Me and the other seniors have had to step up into leadership roles …setting an example for the younger players, working hard and staying locked in during the whole season,” Mitchell said.
The Eagles checked off two major preseason goals by winning the league and defeating their rival Agoura in the Kanan Cup. With those accomplishments secured, the team has turned its attention to postseason play.
“We have one goal from now and one goal only: win CIF,” Houshmound said.
Casella believes the team’s mindset has sharpened as the playoffs approach.
“I think the vibes are very high right now coming off a big win and knowing we are in the best form we have been since the season started,” Casella said. “We are definitely excited going into the playoffs knowing we can deal with whatever team we draw.”
Casella understands the importance of confiding in his team.
“I’ve learned to trust my teammates to support me and [I have] learned how to support them,” Casella said. “This leadership role has helped me develop personally and I feel I’ve done my best to help everyone show their true potential.”
With the league secured and production spread among its core senior leaders, Oak Park enters CIF play with the clear objective of winning.
