Perry soccer this past spring was treated to seeing two future collegiate soccer players on the pitch night after night.  Amy Diaz for the Jayettes and Jonatan Banuelos for the Bluejays.  Diaz is playing for the Pride at Clarke University in Dubuque.  Banuelos is in the same city as he attends University of Dubuque.

The current Bluejay manager, Gary Overla, will miss Banuelos.

“They are getting a kid who is very coachable.  He’s willing to put in the work and willing to work hard and they’re getting a quality player but they’re also getting a really good kid too.  He is going to be sorely missed next year.  He’s just a good presence to have around and he’s a fun kid.” 

The Spartans open the year in Chicago on August 29 against North Park University.  The closest Banuelos will be back to Perry for a match will be at Central College in Pella on September 27.  University of Dubuque is coming off a 5-11-2 season.

First year Head Coach Cesar Hernandez was only able to work with Diaz for one year, but he’s excited for her future.

“She is so dedicated to soccer.  That’s her passion. I think that they are getting a passionate girl that is going to do whatever it takes to grow individually and throughout the team.  I think she is really one of the best players I coach so far in my career.” 

The Pride begin 2025 with a home match against St Thomas on August 21.  Diaz and Clarke University will play their closest contest to Perry on September 17 at Grand View University in Des Moines.  The Pride were 12-4-3 in 2024.