Javier Hernandez, a senior from Arlington High School, was named the 2023-24 Gatorade California Boys Soccer Player of the Year by the Gatorade Player of the Year program, which is presented annually to the top soccer player in the state.
Hernandez was selected from a field that included more than 100 applicants from across the state and was ranked No. 132 in the nation by Top DrawerSoccer.com. He made his professional debut with the Los Angeles FC 2 organization.
In addition to his athletic talent, Hernandez displayed academic prowess, posting a weighted 4.30 GPA. He is an active member of MECHA (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Weltlán / Chicano Student Movement of Newest) and promotes cultural activities through volunteerism as a youth soccer coach. He also enjoys competing in roping and bull riding.
Hernandez will continue his soccer career at the University of North Carolina in the fall and is a role model for his peers on and off the field. His dedication and leadership have been instrumental in his team's success, making him an inspiration to everyone who has had the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
