After moving from Mount Carmel to St. Laurence in his junior year, Noah Mendez found himself sidelined and unable to join the varsity soccer team. He had to watch from the stands as the Vikings advanced to the Class 3A state finals. During this time, Mendez studied everything he could about the team’s play style. Finally, ready to step up as a senior, Mendez was determined to take over as starting goalkeeper.

Mendez explained, “I learned the standard. I learned what it was to be a Viking and play Viking soccer. Although sitting out was hard, I was prepared for this season.”

Mendez’s preparations paid off in a match against Lockport. He made eight critical saves, including a decisive stop on a penalty kick, leading St. Laurence to a 1-0 victory. This win secured the Windy City Ram Classic championship for the Vikings for the first time.

Jesus Salazar scored the team’s only goal with an assist from Adan Gutierrez. Pauly Rzadkosz, Heriberto Luna, Andrew Martinez, and Josue Garcia played key roles in defense. For Lockport, goalkeeper Ben Szudy matched Mendez with eight saves, while Aleko Kolliniatis threatened with four shots on goal.

The game’s turning point came when Orlando Dominguez won a penalty kick for Lockport. Mendez dived left, stopping Kolliniatis’ shot, and followed up with a second save on the rebound. Mendez remarked, “In my head, I knew I was going to get it, even before the ref blew the whistle. When the rebound shot hit my chest, I acted on instinct. You can’t hesitate in those moments.”

Salazar has noticed new confidence in Mendez, saying, “I’ve played with Noah in club soccer, and I’ve always seen his potential. He once lacked confidence, but now he’s a key player. Despite being undersized, he makes crucial plays without fear.” Salazar scored the match-winning goal, slipping past defenders with a pass from Gutierrez.

St. Laurence coach Jaime Alonso highlighted Mendez’s growth, stating, “Noah has made significant progress over the past year. Sitting out last season ignited a fire in him, and it is evident in his performance.”

Mendez cherishes every match in his senior year. “I only have one year,” he said. “That’s the mindset I take into every game. I want to make the most of every play, every match, as if each one is my last.”