Gerardo Navarro Leon '16 just wanted to be part of the Wilbraham & Monson Academy Boys' Soccer team this season.
He was so much more.
Gerardo, a first-year student from Mexico, earned the team's Coaches Award at the Athletic Awards Ceremony Nov. 17. He finished with a team-high in assists and the second-leading scorer for the 2015 Titans.
"I like that I won that award," Gerardo said. "I didn't expect it. It feels good the coaches decided to give me the award. I enjoyed playing on the team."
"He was a composed and skillful player," Coach Gary Cook added. "From day one, he looked to see where he fit in. As our season evolved he realized he complimented a lot of guys we had. He scored some big goals, led the team in assists, and was a very effective player on the ball. I enjoyed coaching him. I wish he was here for a long, long time."
Gerardo made the most of his one season with the Titans. He started every game at center midfield, and even played some striker when called upon.
"I think I played well, but I think I could have played better," Gerardo said. "At the beginning of the season I wasn't the best player I could be. But then I started getting better.
"I played the same way as I do in Mexico, but it's different because the American players are more athletic, and also bigger and stronger. But I kept playing my game."
Gerardo was drawn to the Academy because of the success and rich tradition of the soccer program. He said his one-year experience met his expectations.
"One of the reasons I came to WMA was for the soccer program," Gerardo explained. "I really liked the program and playing with my teammates and having the chance to make new friends."