North Hollywood High School’s Girls Soccer team has officially launched its 2024-2025 season. On November 21, 2024, the Huskies faced off against East Valley High School in their first official game of the year, with JV

securing a victory for the school.

This season marks a fresh chapter for both the Varsity and Junior Varsity teams, with new players and innovative strategies aiming to elevate the program. Varsity head coach Oscar Eligio, who has over 20 years of coaching experience, is leading the charge. Now in his fifth year at North Hollywood High, Eligio is combining his expertise and leadership to guide the team toward success.

“I started the JV team five years ago after the previous varsity coach moved on, and I stayed with the program,” explains Eligio. “After several years coaching JV, I decided to step into my current role with Varsity. As a coach, I try to evaluate each player’s abilities to see where they fit best on the field while contributing to the team as a whole.”

Junior Varsity coach Jerry Barahona has also played an important role in the program’s growth over the past three years. Barahona has focused on developing young talent and strengthening the team’s foundation. With an emphasis on teamwork, skill-building, and innovative techniques, the Huskies are prepared for a promising season.

Coach Eligio is introducing new methods this year aimed at building a stronger team. “I think bringing back returners from previous years will build a stronger foundation. These players bring experience that can help the team catch up and improve,” he notes.

One of the standout players this season is Riley Katz, a senior who serves as the captain of the Varsity team. “We are currently in a rebuilding era,” she shares. “As a team and school, we are growing stronger together. Soccer unites us.” As captain, Katz sees the team as a family and is committed to proudly representing North Hollywood High.

Another key player is Clarissa Castanon, a junior at NHHS, who has made significant contributions to the team and is preparing for a future leadership role. “As a teammate, I’ve been inspired to create a better community for the program,” says Castanon, who has already scored numerous goals for the Huskies.

Clarissa Rodriguez, a sophomore, is also making her mark on the team with her dedication and skill. Reflecting on the importance of collaboration, she emphasizes, “As a team, you always have to support each other—whether you’re at the top or the bottom. That’s what teamwork is all about.”

The team’s power extends beyond returning players. Freshman Sofia Jimenez has already made an impression as part of the Junior Varsity team. “It doesn’t matter who scores the goal; what matters is the drive to keep trying and the joy of sharing success with teammates,” she says. “At the end of the day, we win together, and that’s the best feeling.”

With returning players, dedicated coaches, and a renewed focus on teamwork, the Huskies Girls Soccer team is ready for an exciting and successful season. The experience, fresh talent, and determination ensures that North Hollywood High School will be a strong force on the field.