He dribbles through another defender and continues to move the ball down the field. Sweat’s rolling down his forehead as he winds up to pass it. Alejandro Pacheco ‘14 fires the ball 30 yards to his wide open teammate. City High shoots a driller kick into the corner of the goal, just as the the clock runs out. This is how Pacheco imagines winning the state title.

“It’d be amazing to win it all,” Pacheco said. “We’ve all been working so hard and we all want it really bad. I also feel like Jose deserves to win a state tournament.”

This is the 4th year that Pacheco will be shooting for a state championship. Last year, losing 2-1 to cross-town rival, West, has motivated him to work harder this season. Winning state is Pacheco’s last goal for his high school career.

Next year Pacheco will be continuing to play soccer at Western Illinois. Pacheco will be playing the sport he loves with his best friend and brother, Fernando Pacheco ‘13. One of the biggest contributing factors to Pacheco’s decision was the desire to be on the same team as his older brother.

“This was my first year playing high school soccer without Fernando and I really missed it,” Pacheco said. “It’s a lot of fun to play together and I want to play more with him, which is a big reason why I chose Western Illinois.”

The brothers have been playing soccer together since a young age and their connection on the field is undeniable.

“We grew up together and we know each other really well,” Pacheco said.  “We know how each other plays on the field, we know how to push each other, and we know how to work together.”

The brothers shared a bond on the City High turf, but the difference between high school soccer and college soccer is of course very noticeable. The players get bigger, stronger, and faster, but the higher competition doesn’t phase Pacheco.

“The level is going to be a lot higher, but I’m excited.” Pacheco said. “I’m going to work hard and hope that I get more and more playing time as the season goes on.”

Before Alejandro Pacheco’s heads off to join the college scene at Western Illinois, he is hoping to finish out his high school career by winning the State Tournament. This is the last chance for him to win it all and the journey starts for the soccer team this Thursday, May 29th. The team will be playing their first playoff game against Davenport Central.