The ball sits on the luminous, white spot framed by the jagged lines of the penalty box. With the game on the line, the floodlights accentuate Momo Tonthat as he waits patiently for the whistle to blow. The goalie is merely a silhouette in the game. Beep! With the referee’s command, the ball flies into the back of the net, leaving no room for doubt or error. And the Poly Panther’s hot streak continues.
Throughout the duration of the season, junior striker Tonthat has been the most prolific scorer on the team, deepening his skill and adding to his years of experience with each game. Tonthat started his soccer journey at the age of five, beginning club soccer at the age of ten, and he has since created a name for himself among the Poly community. His efforts as a captain have aided the Poly team to another amazing season with a 16-4-1 comprehensive record.
Both this year and last year, Tonthat has been the leading scorer and playmaker for the varsity boys soccer team. This year in particular, Tonthat has been an unstoppable force, totaling 25 goals and 15 assists. He is recognized as a key aspect of the team by both coaches and fellow teammates. Junior centerback Hudson Poole highlighted Tonthat’s impact, sharing, “Without him this year, our goal production would be nonexistent.”
Tonthat’s ability to find space in the box and remain composed under pressure has made him a constant threat in front of the goal. Last year in the CIF Division 7 finals, Tonthat scored all three of the goals, leading his team to victory. His ability to find space and capitalize on scoring opportunities has helped propel Poly deep into the playoffs this year and last.
Not only is Tonthat a force on the field, but he is also a great leader and role model for the rest of his teammates. Following senior midfielder and captain Joe Benitez’s injury, Tonthat had big shoes to fill but has stepped up to the challenge. Junior left-back Ethan Greenberg highlighted Tonthat’s leadership prowess: “Everyone on the team brings out the best in each other, especially him.” Through his work ethic, Tonthat leads by example and sets the standards for his teammates in both practices and games.
Head coach Dan Sheridan said, “He’s a kid who’s got a bright future and he’ll probably play in college, and I’m sure that he’ll carry the high expectations he has set for himself with him.” The future is promising for Tonthat as the team prepares for CIF finals. The Poly community looks forward to watching him play as this year’s season comes to an end and wishes him well in his athletic career at Poly and beyond.
