Whiz Kids

Each week Scotts Valley Patch, will introduce you to one of the amazing youths in our community doing great things. Whether it is a local Eagle Scout taking on a unique project, a student achieving academic greatness, a young athlete excelling or a school club making a difference, Scotts Valley kids are doing it all, and we plan to spotlight their accomplishments.

Matteo Carbone, 8

School: Vine Hill Elementary School, second grade

Accomplishments: Matteo, an avid soccer player, was named the San Jose Earthquakes Odwalla Player of the Month for April. He was chosen out of youths from all over Northern California for the honor and is the first Player of the Month of the season. Matteo plays soccer for the Santa Cruz Breakers 02B White's, a competitive boys' Under-8 team that plays in the CYSA Cal Soccer League. Matteo was nominated for Player of the Month by his coach for being a standout player in his age group. He has been playing soccer since he was 5 years old and this is his second year of competitive play. Matteo was one of the leading goal scorers in his division during his first season with the Breakers. He was also on a recreation soccer all-star team and has attended two soccer camps, including one in Italy.

Key to Awesomeness: Matteo is very modest about his accomplishments. He is also a very smart and dedicated student and works really hard in school. What sets him apart is his strong sense of focus and ability to pay attention, both on the soccer field and in the classroom.