Liberty Ranch Hawks Battle Through Challenging Schedule, Dominate in League Play

Dec 17, 2025 12:55PM ● By Paige Lampson Sports Editor, photos by Paige Lampson

Hawk Wesley Steinbaugh powers past a Pleasant Grove player.

GALT, CA (MPG) - The Liberty Ranch Hawks varsity boys soccer team is proving that a tough schedule builds championship character, and Head Coach Garrett Arcega couldn’t be more pleased with how his squad is developing.

The Hawks took on Division I powerhouse Pleasant Grove on Dec. 11, falling 2-1 in a hard-fought battle that showcased Liberty Ranch’s ability to compete with the best. Freshman Evan Rangel scored the lone goal for the Hawks, who peppered the Pleasant Grove goalkeeper with 13 shots on goal in the narrow defeat.

“Our schedule is hard by design,” said Arcega. “But where it counts – in league play – we’re taking care of business.”

Danny Juarez moves around and evades to control the ball.

And take care of business they have. The Hawks are undefeated in league competition, securing dominant victories over Union Mine (4-0 on Dec. 10), Amador (8-2 on Dec. 12) and most recently Argonaut (8-2 on Dec. 16).

The Hawks have navigated a challenging early season schedule that included tournament play and tough non-league opponents. After dropping a 3-0 decision to Ponderosa on Dec. 5, Liberty Ranch bounced back with tournament wins over Cordova (3-1) and River City (4-3) on Dec. 6. A 2-1 loss at Franklin on Dec. 9 tested the team’s resolve before it embarked on its league dominance.

“The team is starting to gel,” Arcega noted. “But we’re still going to work on becoming a stronger team and working together.”

Alan Montelongo works to steal the ball.

What makes this Hawks squad particularly exciting is the balance of youth and experience on the roster. The team features contributions from seniors, juniors and sophomores, with even some freshmen earning starting roles, including goal-scorer Rangel, who has already made his mark in just his first high school season.

With a perfect league record and momentum building, the Hawks are positioned to make noise as the season progresses. Coach Arcega remains optimistic but focused on continued improvement as his team works toward its ultimate goals.