Arlington boys and Santiago girls are gearing up for the CIF Open Division soccer championship matches after years of dedicated groundwork, with coaches Kevin Watson and Mike Fleming leading their teams to the finals in Long Beach.

The Big Picture

The journey to the championships reflects a decade of commitment and preparation, showcasing the talent and progress in the Inland area's soccer scene.

By the Numbers
  • Arlington boys, led by senior Javier Hernandez with 31 goals, are aiming for the City of Riverside's first undefeated boys' soccer season.
  • Santiago girls, with nine players signed to collegiate teams, are pursuing a strong legacy in high school soccer under coach Mike Fleming's guidance.
State of Play
  • Arlington boys, 25-0-0 overall, are set to face five-time section champion Mater Dei in the finals.
  • Santiago girls, champions in 2015 and 2020, will go against Santa Margarita, last year's division and regional champion.
Bottom Line

The dedication and success of Arlington boys and Santiago girls in reaching the CIF Open Division soccer championships exemplify the remarkable talent and perseverance within the Inland area's soccer community, highlighting a decade-long journey to excellence.