Student Athlete of the Week – Emiliano Dominguez

Rancho Mirage Boys' soccer Emiliano Dominguez is this week's student athlete of the week.

As described by coaches and teammates, Dominguez's character is humble, relentless, competitive, and a great friend on and off the field.

Playing on the varsity team since he was a freshman, Dominguez and his coach have built a long-lasting relationship.

"We have an amazing relationship. He brought me in as a freshman, and I'm so thankful for that," Dominguez said. These past two years, he actually trusted me to be captain and lead this team, so I'm really grateful for him. I'd say we're very close. He's almost like a second father now."

Along with his relationship with head coach Carlos Calixto, Dominguez believes he is a part of another family with his team.

"Yeah, definitely like a family. We spend a lot of time together, and we just bond together," Dominguez said. "Everybody here is friendly, and no one hates each other. I definitely consider them a second family, and I think that's what makes us great on the field."

With intentions to attend UC San Diego, UC Irvine, or UC Santa Barbara, Dominguez dedicates as much time in the classroom as he does on the soccer field.

"He's always been a responsible kid; he does the things that he's supposed to do, applies the time to it, and doesn't leave anything for later," coach Calixto said. "That gives him the time to practice hard in the sport he loves, and that's why he has excelled in school and on the field."

As he pursues his dream to play at the next level, Dominguez, more importantly, represents his community well and is a great friend.

We are always looking for Student Athlete of the Week nominations. If you know a senior who should be featured next, be sure to contact the KESQ sports department.

The Student Athlete of the Week segment airs every Tuesday.