BROWNSVILLE — Wiley College added Brownsville Porter’s Jesus Maciel and Andy Hinojosa to its long list of Rio Grande Valley recruits when the pair agreed to join the college Monday.
Maciel and Hinojosa were key players in the Cowboys’ run to the regional final and the capturing of the District 32-5A title on the final day of the season.
Maciel scored the late winner against Brownsville Lopez on that final match day to secure the district title and picked up multi-goal games often in district play.
“They told me it was a good college,” he said. “I am excited to play more soccer and go to a good school.”
The forward plans to study computer science at Wiley. Maciel hopes to land a job in the tech industry one day. Also, the senior was excited to sign next to his teammate and friend, Hinojosa.
Maciel is ready to meet up with the rest of the players recruited from the Valley and fight for a spot on the first team.
“Here in the Valley, there is so much competition in soccer,” Maciel said. “Andy and I have to practice a lot to secure our spots in the lineup.”
Hinojosa played on the wings for the Cowboys, but also slotted into left back when the team needed him.
“It was a very special day,” Hinojosa said about joining Wiley. “My friends, family and coaches were there. I never thought that I could sign for a college. My brother also played in high school, and he never had the chance to play college.”
Hinojosa thought his brother was better than him, and views his older brother as a role model.
On the pitch, Hinojosa can provide flexibility to Wiley. The senior said he was mainly recruited because of his ability to play in different positions.
Porter coach Jose Espitia said playing multiple positions is a requirement with his side. He lauded both players for sticking through the process and working hard to reach this point, and that both of the 17-year-old athletes have not reached their full potential.
Espitia acknowledged both players being timid about their abilities to play at the next level. Maciel almost joined the Army, but both had good games at an all-star game with the Wiley coach in attendance.
“I tell these kids, if you play soccer at Porter, you can compete anywhere,” Espitia said.
Both players said they enjoyed their time with the Cowboys and thanked their teammates, coaching staff and family for the opportunity.
Wiley College is located in Marshall and has signed multiple Valley soccer players to revive its re-established team.
