Banning Broncos Boys Soccer Team Secures League Victory, Makes School History

BANNING, CA — The Banning High School Broncos boys soccer team concluded its regular season on Wednesday with a 2–1 victory over Cathedral City High School, a win that secured the program’s first Sun Valley League Championship in school history, according to a school district news release.

The match also marked Senior Night, as nine senior student-athletes were honored and escorted by their loved ones during a halftime celebration. The victory secured the Broncos' 13th win of the season and capped off a historic league run.

Head Coach Roman Aja spoke on becoming league champions.

“Winning a league title is not as easy as people may think,” Aja said. “We have great soccer programs in our league, most notably a powerhouse in Desert Mirage High School, which we happened to beat twice this season. Last year, we had 18 wins but finished second in the league. The hard work and commitment these student-athletes have demonstrated all season long is the reason we are league champions.”

The work isn't done.

Following their league championship, the Broncos have advanced to the CIF Southern Section Division 2 boys soccer playoffs. Banning High School will compete in an away playoff match against Ayala High School on Wednesday, February 11th at 5 p.m. in Chino Hills.

Banning High School finished the regular season with an overall record of 13-4-4, highlighted by strong performances against league and non-league opponents.

One of the season’s key moments included hosting the Jorge Castillo Clásico, a tournament honoring a longtime Banning soccer leader and mentor, according to the district. The tournament brought together eight high schools with respected soccer programs, with Banning earning victories over Adelanto High School, Redlands East Valley High School, and Indian Springs High School.

"The Broncos’ only loss came against Palm Desert High School, the eventual tournament champion.
“It was an honor to host this tournament named after a Banning legend in Jorge Castillo,” said Aja. “Jorge is the reason soccer is alive and thriving in the City of Banning. The majority of my players grew up playing and being coached by Jorge in the youth soccer programs he ran.”

Another season highlight included advancing to the championship match at the Ontario Christian High School Tournament held December 29–30. Banning tied the match 0–0 at the end of regulation before falling in penalty kicks to Chavez High School. Midfielder Alexis Sanchez and striker Hugo Ceballos were named to the All-Tournament First Team, while goalkeeper Andres Luna and defender Chris Ibarra earned All-Tournament First Team honors at the Jorge Castillo Clásico.

“Whatever happens at the end of the season, whatever path we follow, I just know we won a title and had the privilege to play alongside each other,” said senior captain Andres Gonzalez Luna.

Senior Quintin Valdivia reflected on the season’s impact beyond wins and losses.

“This season was, in my opinion, one of the best seasons I have ever been a part of—not just because we won the league or made the CIF playoffs, but because of the experiences we shared, the struggles we overcame, and the memories we made together,” said Valdivia. “Going through the highs and lows as a team was a defining experience for me and will continue to influence me long after my high school career.”

The Banning Unified School District congratulates the Banning High School boys soccer team, coaching staff, seniors, and families on a historic season that will be remembered as a milestone for the program and the District.