Soccer stars stay local, commit to play at MCC

Marshalltown H.S. seniors (L-R) Jose Cordova, Martin Chavarria, and Agustin Ortiz are joined by (L-R) MHS head coach Chris Fuchsen, MCC head coach Rafael Martinez, and MCC assistant coach Creighton Jenness as they commit to play for the Tigers in the fall of 2014
Marshalltown H.S. seniors (L-R) Jose Cordova, Martin Chavarria, and Agustin Ortiz are joined by (L-R) MHS head coach Chris Fuchsen, MCC head coach Rafael Martinez, and MCC assistant coach Creighton Jenness as they commit to play for the Tigers in the fall of 2014

Marshalltown Community College men's soccer head coach Rafael Martinez received three commitments from local talent on Monday afternoon as Marshalltown High School products Agustin Ortiz, Martin Chavarria, and Jose Cordova pledged to play for the Tigers in the fall of 2014.

"One of our goals," Martinez stated, "is to keep the local talent local and we believe we are getting some of the best talent in the state with Agustin, Martin, and Jose."

Chavarria, considered one of the most prolific goal scorers in the state, was named to the Second-Team All-State last year as a junior after scoring 19 goals and handing out nine assists. Ortiz was named to the Honorable Mention All-State team after anchoring the Bobcat defense to a 16-3 record, one of the best seasons in program history. Cordova is a versatile midfielder/defender that will bring an array of talent to the Tigers.

Bobcat head coach Chris Fuchsen praised the play of all three players. "Coach Martinez is getting three quality character guys," said Fuchsen. "They have tremendous work ethic and a very high soccer IQ. After so many years of success here at Marshalltown, their hard work has come to fruition."

Martinez added to the local connection that the program looks to continue down the road. "We've had strong players come out of Marshalltown, and these three players prove that. We look to continue that pipeline for years to come."

The Bobcat soccer team is currently 9-1 on the year and ranked 10th in the state.