LEESBURG, Fla. — The Leesburg High School boys’ soccer team is off to a stellar 6-1-1 start in the Class 5A season, solidifying their status as the 19th-ranked team in the class and 82nd overall in Florida. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Stetson Pasternak, the Yellow Jackets are showing they have the talent and leadership to make a deep postseason run.
Pasternak has seamlessly picked up where former coaches Kenny and Kevin Edwards left off, continuing a tradition of excellence while adding his own dynamic style to the program.
Leading the charge for Leesburg is junior forward Troy Martinez, who has been in electrifying form. Martinez tops the team with seven goals and has also contributed a team-high four assists, showcasing his dual-threat ability on offense.
Every time Troy steps on the pitch, he gives Leesburg a chance to win, his vision and ability to finish under pressure have been key for the Yellow Jackets all season.
Senior Beckham Gahret has also stepped up in a big way, finding the back of the net five times this year. His versatility as a midfielder and forward has added an extra dimension to the Yellow Jackets’ attack.
Meanwhile, freshman sensation Jose Barajas has been making waves across the state. The young standout has impressed with his skill, composure, and potential, drawing praise from around Lake County and Central Florida. This young man has so much potential to grow in the coming years.
Anchoring the team defensively is senior goalkeeper Theodore Kanczurzewski, whose poise and reliability have been pivotal. In 625 minutes of play, Kanczurzewski has recorded 27 saves while allowing just nine goals, giving him the best goals-against average in FHSAA Class 5A District 5. He also ranks third in the class in total saves.
As the Yellow Jackets enter the second half of their season, critical matchups against The Villages and Lecanto loom large. These games will be vital tests for Leesburg as they prepare for a potential run in the FHSAA playoffs. Those two games in early January will paint a picture as to where this team truly is as we enter the final weeks of the regular season.
With a potent mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, Leesburg has emerged as a legitimate contender in Class 5A. If their early success is any indication, this team could make a deep postseason push.
