Newburgh Free Academy junior Javier Rodriguez has been named a High School All-American for the 2020-21 winter and spring seasons.
United Soccer Coaches announced its High School all-Americans selections last week. A total of 37 girls and 35 boys who played for member coaches were recognized after being named All-State and All-Region in their area. Rodriguez received an email congratulating him on being named one of the “nation’s best” and will later receive a certificate and medal recognizing the honor.
Rodriguez started playing soccer when he was 6 years old and joined the NFA Varsity soccer team in ninth grade. He says that he is continuing a family tradition, as his father was also an accomplished soccer player. Rodriguez was named to the New York State All-State Team his sophomore and junior years and will be starting his senior year at NFA Main Campus this fall. He currently plays forward. Prior to attending Newburgh Free Academy, Rodriguez attended Temple Hill Academy.
The all-American accolade is awarded based on a number of factors that include game statistics, appearance on the All-State team, and coaches recommendations.
Coach Matt Iorlano says that Rodriguez, “is a special kind of player, working hard every day in practice and in games.” Iorlano also notes that Rodriguez, “is an awesome kid off the field and with his teammates.” In his 26 years of coaching the NFA boys soccer team, Iorlano has coached four High School all-Americans and boasts more than 300 games won.
On NFA’s 2009 championship team, Alex Bramall and Wesley Finch were named High School all-Americans and in 2016, Matteo Russo was selected.
Rodriguez credits his teammates for always taking things seriously during practices and games, pushing him to be at his best. He acknowledges Iorlano as a really good coach that has helped his strategy with the game and has given him a lot of confidence. Rodriguez’s goal is to play in college.
Content provided by Newburgh Enlarged City School District.
