“To see the team have this much success means so much to me,” Pasternak said. “It shows how the hard work the players put in during the offseason is now helping them succeed during the season. I give glory to God for all that we have accomplished. He has given me a heart to build up the younger generation, and soccer has helped me do so. I couldn’t do any of this without Him!”

(Players like senior Beckham Gahret who leads the team in goals with Troy Martinez are a big reason for Leesburg High’s success. Photo Credit – Jeanelle Henderson.)

Pasternak, who has been instrumental in developing the program, emphasized the importance of club soccer experience in improving players’ skills and game knowledge. Players have benefitted from their involvement with clubs like Lake United FC, Brave SC, and Florida Rush.

“I made it a goal to get players involved in club teams to build their skill and knowledge of the game,” Pasternak explained. “Through those clubs, the guys have been able to accomplish so much. I also aimed for them to build relationships with each other and achieve academic and behavioral success. I’m so proud of them for this, and I know these traits will serve them well in life.”

(Coach Pasternak is hoping to lead Leesburg High to a district championship in his first year as head coach.)

The team’s standout players, Beckham Gahret and Troy Martinez, have been pivotal in Leesburg’s success. The duo has been playing soccer since childhood, with both gaining international experience in England and Spain. Martinez, a product of Spanish soccer, has formed a close partnership with Gahret on the field.

“Beckham and Troy work incredibly well together,” Pasternak said. “There’s a reason why they’ve scored so much. Their hard work and determination are unmatched. Honestly, the team is full of stars, and I wish I could give recognition to every single player.”

Gahret, who has played soccer since he was three years old, and Martinez are the only remaining members of Leesburg’s 2023 District Championship team. They have brought leadership and experience to a squad hungry for another title.

(Senior Beckham Gahret has 12 goals this season. He is among the area’s top soccer talents. Photo Credit – Jeanelle Henderson.)

As the district tournament approaches, Pasternak has a clear message for his team.

“To win the championship, we have to keep doing what we’ve been doing,” he said. “I tell the boys every game to just play their game. We also need to maintain a tighter focus to bring further success.”

The last time Leesburg High Soccer won the district championship was 2023. Before that it had been a full decade since their last one in 2013. Leesburg will look to replicate their success and hopefully make a run in the 2025 FHSAA State Soccer Playoffs.