Behind a stingy defense that allowed 12 goals during league play, Santa Teresa made its way to the top of the BVAL-Santa Teresa standings. Rising tall as the last line of that defense was freshman keeper Jake Miller.

Miller earned Goalie of the Year honors in the division, as the Saints posted 10-3-1 mark in league play, a mark which carried them to the league crown and a berth in the CCS Division 2 playoffs. He made his mark from the outset of the season, turning away all but one shot in a big 2-1 non-league win over Mt. Hamilton opponent Leland, and then also allowed just one goal in a tough 1-0 loss to eventual Open Division champion Bellarmine. It was a precursor of the solid year which would follow.

For the season, Miller wound up posting six clean sheets, impressive for any keeper facing solid competition, and even more so for a freshman. He blanked Gunderson twice, adding them to a list that wound up including Leigh, San Jose, Westmont and Evergreen Valley. Miller was also in goal when Santa Teresa turned back Westmont and Del Mar in February to clinch the division title.

Miller’s efforts in front of the net led Santa Teresa to its most victories since 2012, as the Saints outscored all opponents 53-24 for the year.

For his efforts throughout the season, we are pleased to recognize Jake Miller as the Prep2Prep CCS Freshman of the Year.

Other players considered include Prospect’s Eduardo Robledo, Del Mar’s Jeff Culp, Mitty’s Thomas Pelino and Los Gatos’ Mathias Bonnet.

NOTE: We would like to thank our media partners, coaches, parents, players and fans for contributing photos for our all-section features. We salute all of the players that have made this a wonderful season of CCS soccer.