Sang Lee
BURBANK-- There was a difference in the attitude the Burroughs High
boys' soccer players exhibited when they stepped onto the field the past
few weeks.
They carried themselves with a swagger while doing stretches, they
raced to get their jerseys to wear prior to league contests and they won
matches with an air of confidence and expectance.
Sure, it's only summer, but Indian Coach Mike Kodama already has his
team believing.
The Indians finished their schedule in the High School Soccer Summer
League by going an undefeated with a 6-0-3 record, and winning the title
July 25 against Calabasas High, 2-1, at Luther Burbank Middle School.
"The guys felt good about themselves. They worked hard and were very
happy. It's good for them," Kodama said.
Kodama can't help but be optimistic, as his team finished a stellar
summer after not making the CIF Southern Section playoffs last season
during the high school campaign.
After being 4-0-3 heading into the league playoffs, Burroughs disposed
of Foothill League foe Hart High convincingly, 5-0, in the first round.
The league featured Burroughs, Hart, Calabasas, Crespi, Hoover, Agoura
and cross-town rival Burbank highs.
The Indians won the match with the Bulldogs, 6-4.
"Some years we have good summers, some years we have bad summers. This
summer was such a good start for us. We learned a lot about the guys. We
learned we have good depth. And we're pleased with the effort of the
younger players," Kodama said.
"We want [summer] to be a jumping point for our season. Our
expectations have been the same. We want to do well and make the
playoffs."
Burroughs went through its fine summer run without arguably its best
player. Goalkeeper Alan Machuca was away with his club team for most the
summer.
Players who played well for Burroughs were Cesar Corzo, Cesar Orozco
and Ruben Escalera.
