Cocoa Beach Minutemen Advance to State Semifinals: A Cinderella Story in the Making
The Cocoa Beach Minutemen boys soccer team is one win away from the Class 3A state championship, having secured their first-ever region title and a place in the state final four. Their journey has been marked by overcoming challenges and defeating higher-seeded opponents, establishing them as a team to watch.
Upset Victories Fuel Playoff Run
As the No. 5 seed in Region 3A-2, Cocoa Beach defied expectations. They began their playoff journey with a win over Tampa Catholic. The Minutemen then stunned No. 1 Lake Highland Prep, last year’s state runner-up, in the regional semifinals, winning on penalty kicks. Their momentum continued with a narrow victory over Calvary Chapel, sealed by a game-winning goal from Javier Loza in the final seconds of the regional final.
Matchup with Top-Ranked Downtown Doral
Cocoa Beach (16-7-1) now faces a formidable opponent in No. 1 Downtown Doral in the Class 3A state semifinals. The match will be held on Thursday, Feb. 19, at 7 p.m. At Lake Myrtle Sports Complex in Auburndale. Downtown Doral reached the semifinals by defeating Cardinal Gibbons and MAST Academy in the Region 4-3A bracket, and SLAM Miami in the regional final.
Key Players Driving Cocoa Beach’s Success
Senior Jadyn Senger leads the Minutemen offense with 29 goals and 14 assists this season. Javier Loza has contributed nine goals and two assists, while Vaughn Broderson has six assists and three goals. Jovan Jackson (7 goals, 3 assists) and Pepe Lanza (6 goals, 5 assists) similarly play crucial roles in the team’s attack.
Downtown Doral’s Offensive Powerhouse
Downtown Doral boasts a strong offensive lineup of their own, led by Eduardo Jerez and Santiago Ramos, both with 10 goals each. Gianluca Tortolani is the team’s leading playmaker with 13 assists. The Dolphins enter the semifinal with a 17-1-3 record and a six-game winning streak.
Cocoa Beach Roster Spotlight
The Cocoa Beach team features a mix of experienced seniors and promising underclassmen. Key players include Owen Senger, Alex Ferris, Cajais Robinson, Pepe Lanza, Jadyn Senger, Javier Loza, and Jovan Jackson.
Did you know?
Cocoa Beach’s five-game winning streak demonstrates their peak performance as they head into the state semifinals.
FAQ
Q: Where is the Cocoa Beach vs. Downtown Doral game being played?
A: Lake Myrtle Sports Complex in Auburndale.
Q: What time does the game start?
A: 7 p.m. On Thursday, Feb. 19.
Q: Who are the leading goal scorers for Cocoa Beach?
A: Jadyn Senger (29 goals) and Javier Loza (9 goals).
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on the penalty kick situation. Cocoa Beach’s ability to win on penalties against Lake Highland Prep shows their composure under pressure.
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