The Eden Prairie High School girls soccer team has embraced a fresh approach this season under new head coach Jorge Oconitrillo, concluding their regular season with a record of 5-6-3 and one conference win.
With two decades of coaching experience, Oconitrillo has focused on long-term growth and program-wide development, fostering a culture of support and competitiveness.
“This year, one of my main priorities was to implement my philosophy, which includes generating a winning mentality, supporting all players on all of our teams, making the program fun, making sure that we compete, and, at the same time, plant seeds for the future,” Oconitrillo said.
His experience includes over 200 wins and four section coach of the year honors during his Minnesota State High School League career. Before joining the Eagles, Oconitrillo led both the girls’ and boys’ programs at Holy Family Catholic High School in Victoria.
Leadership
Oconitrillo’s leadership has emphasized a shift toward a more aggressive offensive strategy, pushing the team to challenge powerhouse opponents like Edina, Minnetonka, and Wayzata.
“Even though we could have played more defensively against some teams, we chose to play in a more offensive manner to try to score more goals because it is needed to develop a winning program,” Oconitrillo explained. This approach, he added, challenged the team and encouraged them to adopt a more dynamic, goal-focused style of play.
Oconitrillo praised the team’s dedication: “The players have been asking for more intense practices and constructive feedback about each of them. They want to improve with every practice. This speaks highly of their personal and team drive.”
Perspective
In his first year at the helm as Eden Prairie girls soccer coach, Oconitrillo has focused on building relationships and instilling a winning mentality. His approach extends beyond the field, encompassing the entire program from varsity to freshman teams.
Oconitrillo is supported in his efforts by assistant coaches Katherine Horstmann and Katherine Windsor, who have been working alongside him throughout the season.
The transition hasn’t been without challenges. Oconitrillo noted the learning curve associated with the logistics of a larger school program. “There were a couple bumps on the road, but nothing too serious.”
One significant change under Oconitrillo’s leadership has been increased engagement with the Eden Prairie Soccer Club (EPSC). The high school program now has a closer relationship with EPSC, with initiatives such as ball chasers at games, young players attending pregame routines, and a September clinic that saw about 50 younger girls participating alongside high school players.
“We are looking forward to holding more of these clinics and strengthening the connections between the players at different levels,” Oconitrillo said. “It was so uplifting to see the high school girls and the younger girls playing soccer together and having fun.”
As the program continues to evolve under Oconitrillo’s guidance, the focus remains on fostering a competitive spirit while nurturing the next generation of Eden Prairie soccer players.
Postseason outlook
As the regular season concludes, the Eagles turn their focus to the section tournament. Their first challenge comes against Prior Lake, a team that bested the Eagles 2-1 earlier this season.
Despite the previous loss, Oconitrillo remains optimistic about his team’s chances. “I believe that we can beat any team in our section,” he said. “Our team is ready and will do its best to compete and make the Eden Prairie community proud.”
Preparation for the postseason has been intense, with Oconitrillo and his coaching staff working to refine both offensive and defensive strategies. “In the last few practices, we have tried to make our defense stronger and our offense more efficient,” the coach explained.
Oconitrillo acknowledges the time constraints of the high school season. “The high school season is short, and it is difficult to work on every aspect of the game,” he said.
Despite this challenge, the team has focused on adaptability. “We have been practicing with different formations and we are ready to implement them as the game changes,” he added.
Eden Prairie, seeded No. 6, faces No. 3 seed Prior Lake (10-4-1) in the section opener on Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 7:30 p.m. at Prior Lake High School.
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