Sophomore Matias Dieguez is a member of the boys soccer junior varsity team, and is the athlete of the day. When Dieguez is not dominating the soccer field, he is balling out in Arlington’s recreational basketball league. Dieguez has been playing soccer for his whole life, thanks largely to his father and coaches. During his junior and senior seasons, Dieguez hopes to lead the varsity team in the state championship tournament. Dieguez gets better soccer by watching his favorite teams and working with his teammates. Both on and off the field, Dieguez loves to have a good time by playing soccer or hanging out with friends.

Q: What sports are you involved in at Yorktown? Outside of Yorktown?

A: I play soccer for the boys junior varsity team, and I also play rec basketball.

Q: Have you always been athletic?

A: Yes, I have always been athletic, I think I knew I was athletic when I was around five.

Q: What is your favorite sport to watch?

A: My favorite sport to watch is soccer. My favorite teams to watch are Arsenal and Universidad Catolica.

Q: Where did you get your athleticism from?

A: I think my dad gave me my athletic ability; he is also athletic and played soccer for his whole life.

Q: How long have you been playing sports?

A: I have been playing sports my whole life. I started playing when I was three and began playing seriously around third grade.

Q: Who is your favorite athlete?

A: My favorite athlete is Per Mertesacker because he is a strong physical player, who has great technique on the ball. Athletically, he is both fast and strong, setting him apart from other players.

Q: What family member, teammate or coach has been the most important in your athletic career?

A: My travel soccer coach when I was nine, Mike Woods, he taught me a lot about how to play  soccer the right way.

Q: Do you plan on playing sports in college? If so, what would your dream college be?

A: If the opportunity to play in college presents itself, I would definitely consider it. I don’t have a dream college, but it is a dream of mine to play in the Chilean soccer league for my favorite team, Universidad Catolica.

Q: What is your biggest goal for your high school sports career?

A: My goal in high school is to win states as a member of the varsity team. Last year when I was a freshman, the soccer team made it to the semifinals, I hope that when I play we can make it all the way.

Q: What is your favorite part about playing sports?

A: My favorite part about playing soccer is winning, and knowing that my hard work paid off. Also, I love having a good time and playing with my teammates.