The expectations for Andy Khalil were fairly high when he joined the Pleasant Valley High boys soccer team last season as a junior.

Khalil had his moments for the Vikings during the season as they advanced to the CIF Northern California Regional semifinals. At other times though, Khalil felt the strain of living up to the expectations that came with earning a varsity spot.

Once the season was over, Khalil took it upon himself to ask coaches — both from PV and his Chico Cal Soccer Club team — what he needed to improve on. Behind the scenes, he dedicated the offseason to work on those things with the hope that he would earn a full-time starting role. When he returned for his senior season, his progression was evident to PV head coach Nick Lopez. Not only did Khalil earn a starting position in the defensive midfield, but he was also named one of the Vikings' four captains.

Read more at: https://www.chicoer.com/tag/prep-athlete-of-the-week/.