At Monmouth-Roseville High School, soccer isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life that connects students from diverse backgrounds, forming a team as unique as the community it represents. For players like Bruntsh Bolese, a senior, and Brenda Raygoza, a junior, the soccer program is more than a game. It’s a celebration of cultural diversity, resilience, and shared ambition.

Bruntsh, who has played soccer since he was five years old, began his journey on the fields of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo. “Soccer in Africa is physical—endurance and sprints are everything,” he explains. Adjusting to the American style of play, which blends tactics from across the globe, was a transformative experience. “Our team’s diversity brings different styles together. It’s like creating a unique language of soccer.”

Brenda’s soccer story started later, in eighth grade, when she joined a co-ed team as the only girl. “Playing with boys was intimidating, but it pushed me to improve,” she says. That early challenge prepared her for high school soccer, where she has flourished. “Soccer is unlike any other sport—you’re using your feet, your head, your heart. It’s intense, and it brings people together in a way nothing else can.”

The cultural tapestry of Monmouth-Roseville is central to the team’s identity. Players from Central America, Asia, and Africa contribute to its dynamic style, reflecting the rich diversity of the district itself. Brenda, whose parents hail from Mexico and El Salvador, says this inclusivity strengthens their bond. “Our differences make us similar. We support each other because we understand what it’s like to feel different.”

Bruntsh and Brenda both credit their coach, Mr. Statham, for fostering a supportive environment where players can thrive. Known for his passion and empathy, Coach Statham inspires his team both on and off the field. “He’s like a second father,” Brenda says. “He understands us and makes us feel seen.” Bruntsh agrees, adding, “His love for the game and for us motivates us to give our best.”

The team’s journey has been marked by growth and determination. Brenda recalls watching early girls’ soccer games, where victories were rare. “Now we’re winning regional championships—it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come,” she says. Bruntsh, who has played varsity since his freshman year, cherishes memories of bus rides filled with music from around the world. “Those moments remind me why I love this game. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the connections we build.”

Both students have big dreams for the future. Bruntsh plans to play soccer in college while pursuing a career in medicine. Brenda, meanwhile, hopes to become a registered nurse, possibly using her Spanish fluency to help others. Their experiences at Monmouth-Roseville have prepared them not only as athletes but as compassionate individuals ready to make a difference.

“Soccer teaches us about life,” Brenda reflects. “It’s about teamwork, resilience, and understanding. We’ve learned to value our differences and use them to make something amazing.”

At Monmouth-Roseville, the soccer field is more than a place for competition—it’s a classroom for life lessons. Through shared challenges and triumphs, students like Bruntsh and Brenda exemplify the spirit of their community: diverse, determined, and united.