September 18, 2025
Santa Monica, CA
Men's Soccer Stays Undefeated
The SMC men's soccer team has enjoyed a strong start to the season under Head Coach Tim Pierce, remaining undefeated through eight matches with a record of four wins and four draws. While the team has yet to suffer a loss, Coach Pierce acknowledged that several ties came from letting leads slip away late in games. "Finishing off games and staying concentrated is what we're working to improve," he explained, highlighting set-piece defending as a major area of recent progress.
One of the season's early highlights came in a 1–0 road victory over Chaffey College, where the team earned a clean sheet against a previously undefeated opponent. "We stayed focused until the end," Tim said. "That one stands out."
Several players have been key contributors to the team's success. Forward Jefferson Parada has led the attack with five or six goals already, including crucial scores against Chaffey and Fullerton. In the midfield, captain Adrian Garcia has been a steady leader, while center backs Aydan Mexia and Zach Shayne have anchored the defense. Tim praised his core players, many of whom are sophomores, for their consistency and resilience.
Looking ahead, the coach has set both short- and long-term goals for his squad. In the immediate term, he emphasizes taking things "one game at a time," with a focus on sharp practices and steady improvement. In the longer term, the team aims to compete for a third consecutive conference title and make a deep run in the state playoffs.
A strong sense of team culture and accountability has been central to the program's success. Tim stressed that winning and chemistry go hand in hand: "We win together, we lose together. Nothing replaces having a good team culture." He also makes accountability a cornerstone, from enforcing practice attendance to conditioning standards tied to the number of goals conceded. "If you set rules and don't hold people accountable, then that's true to life," he said.
With an unbeaten record, a disciplined approach, and a united locker room, the men's soccer team looks poised to chase another championship this season.