Cal State LA’s men’s soccer program enters the season with serious momentum under head coach Michael Erush—now in his fourth year.The Golden Eagles finished 2024 with a 12‑3‑6 overall record, and going 5‑1‑5 in CCAA conference play, as well as reaching the third round of the NCAA Division II Tournament. For many freshmen like Angel Sandres, joining such a program means stepping into an environment where every practice is high-level and every player is pushed to grow.

Before arriving at Cal State LA, Sandres enjoyed a decorated career at Cathedral High School, earning first-team All-CIF honors, two first-team All-League selections, twice winning the Best Offensive Player Award, and making the school’s Honor Roll three times. These accomplishments set the stage for his transition to college soccer, highlighting both his talent and dedication.

Freshman forward Angel Sandres is navigating a major transition as he joins the Cal State LA men’s soccer team. After a decorated high school career, he’s adjusting to the faster pace, tougher competition, and higher expectations of NCAA Division II play while finding his footing as a Golden Eagle.

While adjusting to college-level soccer has been a fast-paced transition for Sandres, the jump from high school to the NCAA level brought immediate changes in pace and expectations. Sandres is also eager to grow both academically and athletically, and hopes that this year’s season will set the tone for his college career. 

“The jump has had an immediate impact, it’s much different and with higher expectations, much faster tempo,” Sandres said. “I am hoping to get a great education and continue my studies, and of course, to have a great season with the team and find myself to compete and win.”

He’s also found his place quickly on the Golden Eagles roster, crediting his teammates for making him feel at home.

“The team is great, since my first day I’ve gotten along with my teammates. Everyone made me feel welcome and I’m comfortable communicating and playing with my teammates. So, to answer your question, yes, I feel like I’m fitting in.”

Sandres appreciates both his high school and college coaching staffs and their different approaches. The contrast in styles, he says, has only helped him grow as a player.

“The difference is pretty much that guys are older and bigger, of course. Both coaches were great, and they have their differences and different playing/coaching styles, but overall, great coaching staff both ways.”

Competition for playing time is strong, but Sandres is focused on improvement. One of the biggest challenges he has faced has been keeping up with the speed of play. “The challenge is my playing time; there is a lot of competition, and my goal is to work and be able to play much more as a freshman,” Sandres said. “The toughest adjustment overall is being able to keep up with the playing speed for me. It’s much quicker and it’s real! But I’ve been able to learn and adapt pretty quickly with the help of the coaches!”

Competition for playing time is fierce, and Sandres knows earning minutes won’t come easy. He said the message from the coaching staff is clear: performance determines playing time, regardless of class year.

Support from both his upperclassmen teammates, as well as his athletic advisor has helped him adjust. Their help has given Sandres the chance to balance both his academics as well as his athletics. With that support system in place, Sandres is focused on carving out his role with the Golden Eagles. He knows earning playing time as a freshman won’t be easy, but he’s motivated to prove himself in every training session and game opportunity.

“The older guys are always helping me with pointers and advice on the way the system works here. Because that’s the thing I was struggling with, was getting the right points I needed to work on, and I have had guys who provided me with help to get myself situated when playing,” Sandres said. “The balancing is great! Thanks to my athletic advisor, not only did she help me with my schedule, but helped me have a comfortable schedule where I can balance both my practice and class/schoolwork.”

Looking ahead, Sandres said he sees this first season as a chance to grow, develop his game, and set himself up for success both athletically and academically at Cal State LA.

As the season kicks off, all eyes will be on “El Niño de Oro” (Sandres’ nickname given to him by friends) as he looks to turn his freshman year into a launching pad for a promising Golden Eagles career both on the field and in the classroom.