Boys' Soccer Dream Team: Francini makes year count

Francini, who said he has a 4.5 GPA, was accepted early. The way he found out is a story he will never forget, either.

The news came before a nonleague match at Estancia High on Dec. 9.

"My dad came running on the field in tears, saying I got accepted into Stanford," said Francini, who was surprised, not only because his father, Alex, went to UC Berkeley, which is Stanford's rival, but because his dad was running and crying on the field.

"I had a big smile on my face the entire game."

The following are the rest of the players on the Dream Team:

Sean Bjelland, Estancia

Senior center back anchored the Eagles' defense, helping turn things around under Coach Robert Castellano. The Eagles won 11 more matches than they did the previous season and placed second in the competitive Orange Coast League. Bjelland earned the Orange Coast League Defensive MVP.

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Conor Roche, Corona del Mar

Junior striker was the area's best scorer, recording 17 goals and five assists. Roche finished in the top 10 in scoring in Orange County, despite missing two weeks because of a knee problem. He led CdM to a Pacific Coast League title. Roche earned the Pacific Coast League Offensive MVP award.

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Cristian Gomez, Estancia

Junior striker provided Estancia's scoring punch by creating most of his 10 goals. Gomez, who had four assists, led Estancia to the second round of the CIF Southern Section Division 4 playoffs for the second time in three seasons. Gomez earned a share of the Orange Coast League MVP.

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Max Premer, Corona del Mar

Sophomore stopper provided stability in the back for CdM. The Sea Kings started slow before going 9-2-1 in their last dozen matches. They advanced to the second round of the CIF Southern Section Division 3 playoffs. Premer earned first-team All-Pacific Coast League laurels.

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Christian Ochoa, Newport Harbor

Senior striker led the Sailors with 10 goals, including four game-winners, and finished with four assists. Ochoa played aggressive, using his body well to separate himself from defenders in the box and create scoring chances. Ochoa earned first-team All-Sunset League laurels.

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Jorge Sanchez, Costa Mesa

Senior striker was one of the fastest players in the area and was deadly in the box. Sanchez almost produced a goal in more than half of the Mustangs' 24 matches. He earned first-team All-Orange Coast League laurels. Sanchez is a repeat Dream Team selection.

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Jay Damon, Corona del Mar