Hancock Men's Soccer Players Named to All-Region Teams, Gomez Scores All-State Recognition

Two Allan Hancock College men's soccer players have been recognized among the top players in the region and the state. In addition to receiving the 2017 Western State Conference Player of the Year last month, sophomore Migel Gomez has been named to the All-State and All-Region teams by the California Community Colleges Soccer Coaches Association (CCCSCA).

Gomez is the first Hancock men's soccer player named all-state in at least 12 years. Gomez led the Western State Conference with 19 assists and 47 points. He and his teammate Ulysses Cardona tied for the conference lead with 14 goals. The Cabrillo High School graduate ranked third in the state in assists and points, and tied for sixth in goals. His 19 assists set a Hancock single-season record and ranked third all-time in conference history. Gomez was the first Hancock soccer player to win the conference's player of the year since 2002 and the fourth in program history.

"Migel is the complete package – his speed, touch on the soccer ball, leadership and work ethic are going to take him a long way," said Billy Vinnedge, the men's soccer head coach at Hancock. "I have no double Migel is going to do great things at the next level, both on and off the field."

Gomez and Hancock freshman Saul Ayuso were also two of the 22 players from across the state named to All-West Region teams by the United Soccer Coaches Association (USCA). Gomez landed on USCA's Division III All-West Region First Team. Ayuso, an all-conference second team pick, landed on the second team. The Santa Maria High School graduate helped to direct the Hancock offense and recorded three assists.

"Saul is a player who you always want to have the soccer ball. He controls the tempo of the game and creates most of our opportunities," said Vinnedge. "We expect huge things out of Saul next year. I can't wait to watch him develop and continue to take his game to the next level."

Hancock finished the 2017 season 10-9-2 overall and 2-7-1 in conference action. The Bulldogs won 10 games in a single-season for the first time in seven years.