This article was originally published by PrepSoccer staff writer, Matt Smith, on the PrepSoccer website. Matt Smith is a special news and communications correspondent with SF Elite Academy and will providing viewers with an inside look into SF Elite and what makes our club so special.
Last, but certainly not least, in our four-part San Francisco Elite Series, are the keepers. Often times the heartbeat of a team, the vocal leaders and the players who have to step up in the biggest moments, these four keepers are the Elite keepers to keep an eye on this upcoming season. Aidan Dugan | Sacred Hearth Cathedral Prep Dugan is one of the senior members of the club, playing for the 04/05 NPL team at SF Elite and plays at Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep in San Francisco for high school. He’s a big keeper, with good strength and the courage to come out for balls or to sacrifice his body by winning a ball in the air. He takes command between the posts and makes quick decisions. He reacts quickly and he can distribute out of the back.
Pedro Garcia-Silva | University Garcia-Silva plays for the 2006 SF Elite, playing high school at University High. Recently joining the club in June, he has been both a pleasant surprise and a player who is making great strides. He has made a positive impact immediately, being very steady in goal and being fearless when coming for the ball. Misha May | Lincoln May is one of those intuitive keepers who is able to get a read on what will happen before it actually happens. This allows him to close down angles quickly or come get the ball. He’s great on eliminating crosses by going into the air to get the ball. He has strong hands, and does not lose the ball when going up for it. He’s a great shot-stopper, moves laterally well and is a very good athlete between the posts. He plays high school at Lincoln. Johnny Ramirez | Not Applicable Ramirez, who plays for the 2007 SF Elite team, has made some big, big saves for his team. And, over the last 6-8 months, has progressed greatly. He is a very, very athletic keeper who’s technical skills continue to improve. He has blossomed into a leader for this team.