The Central Catholic soccer team continued its TAPPS championship streak under Coach Edward Cartee by defending their state title Saturday at Waco ISD Stadium with a hard fought 2-1 win over El Paso Cathedral.

Jose Gallegos gave the Buttons a 1-0 lead midway through the first half with a goal, then later, with barely more than a minute left in the Division I match, Gallegos also scored the game-winning goal to take away all of any breath that was left out of El Paso Cathedral’s hopes for a state victory. This impressive culmination to the 2019-20 soccer season represents Central’s fourth straight state title championship. The title is also their fifth in seven years, and ninth overall.

When asked about the exemplary play from the Senior players on this year’s team, Coach Cartee had this to say: “It is so incredibly special for our seniors to win State all 4 years of their high school careers.  They are tremendous young men and they deserve it.  They have made history at our school and are leaving an awe-inspiring legacy for those who follow in their footsteps.” He also commented on his vision for the future as this team moves forward after four very impressive state championship seasons. Cartee added: “When we begin our preparation for next season, all the boys know that they are going to have to really step up and push themselves.  With that said, not only are we returning 4 starters, but multiple other players who played significant minutes this year and will be ready to step into the starting role in their position.”

Congratulations to this coaching staff and all of these committed players who have garnered a well earned and deserved fourth straight championship for the Central Catholic Soccer program.