The Lewis Soccer Advisory League (La Liguita) makes a positive contribution to the lewis high school community by creating relationships, promoting inclusivity, and providing an opportunity for athletic growth. This league is an important part of our school culture: soccer not only brings students together but also creates a better school experience. 

It all started when Senior Andres Roca’s French teacher Nico Wood wanted to create a soccer league for students to play. “He was just passionate about soccer like most of us are,” Roca said.

The idea was brought to light in Roca’s sophomore year but made official in junior year. The league has since grown to a student-run intramural soccer league that is run all year long.

La Liguita consists of eight teams and hosts over 150 Lewis students. It is open to all soccer players regardless of their skill level. After all, the league’s motto is identical to John R. Lewis School’s motto: “All means all.”

Some might say that this league takes away time for students’ ability to complete classroom assignments during advisory and may be a distraction. The importance of advisory is for students to have a time inside school to complete missing assignments, and if students are outside, they are not able to do catch up on their classes.

However, in order to be in this league, students must be earning passing grades in all classes and if not, they must have a plan in place to pass those classes. Emails are sent to advisory teachers by Spanish teacher and league sponsor Elena Tomas, explaining what the league is and asking to remind students to bring their La Liguita passes to be scanned for attendance. The email also states “Any academic responsibility is always a priority,” so a teacher can deny the students leave if he or she sees fit. 

La Liguita has brought in many athletes and soccer fans together and has even connected students with people they would’ve never met if it weren’t for the league. La Liguita/Advisory soccer has even expanded to other FCPS schools, where it has made positive contributions to the lives of students.

La Liguita has created an environment where students can explore their passion and creativity. In fact, the league has space for many roles, including players, captains, managers, referees, and even social media developers.

Senior Bianca Reyes, team manager, believes that the league has left her with lifelong memories. “I always have fun when I come out. It’s literally so funny every time,” Reyes said.

The Lewis Soccer Advisory League (La Liguita) has truly made a lasting impact on our school community by creating connections, encouraging inclusivity, and providing a space for personal growth as an athlete.

If students are interested in joining next year, regardless of skill level, we highly encourage them to participate. To join, keep an eye out for announcements at the start of the next year and sign up forms. Interested students may also speak directly with Tomas. 

Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of this fun experience! Come out, have fun, and most of all, enjoy playing the sport you love!