Grand Junction native Estevan “Stevie” Palma signed with the Mavs to become the third player added for the fall. Stevie is a forward/midfielder from Central High School where he was All-Conference in the Western Slope League. In addition he was a member of the GSJS Fire FC Premier Team that competed at Nomads and the Surf Cup. Stevie was a Sueno MLS finalist and had the opportunity to compete against thousands of tryout participants for the privilege of playing at the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA. “Stevie is a very active forward and possesses a nice touch on the ball with the ability to finish. He will compete right away for an attacking position.”
The fourth player committed to Mesa State is Marco Escobar from Eagle Valley High School and the Vail Valley Soccer Club. Marco is a two time Denver Post First Team All –State midfielder. Marco led Eagle Valley HS into the state semis and quarterfinals the last two years. “Marco is a very dynamic midfielder who is fun to watch. He has great feet and is very creative. I was very fortunate to watch him play in a couple youth and high school games! He is going to be a great fit at Mesa.”
The next couple commitments for the 2010 recruiting class come from Las Cruces, New Mexico. The Mavs recently signed New Mexico Strikers teammates AJ Marquez and Ivan Esparza. AJ is a versatile midfielder/defender that has a great work rate and attitude. He was All-State at Mayfield High School where he was teammates with present Mav Brandon Burton. AJ was also MVP of the state tournament as a junior as Mayfield made a run to the state high school championship game. “AJ is very strong on the ball and makes great decisions. He has a very nice touch and his versatility will help him compete for a number of positions next fall.”
Ivan Esparza becomes the sixth addition to the Mavs fall 2010 roster. Ivan is a forward/midfielder from Las Cruces High School where he was All-State. “Ivan is one of those players who scores goals. Every time I watch him he impresses me more and more. He has a knack for scoring goals and he is determined to win. He is built like a bull and provides the ability to hold the ball for us or take on defenders. He is going to be a great addition for our program.”
The Mavericks finished their Spring Season with home games this past weekend against Garden City Community College. There next matches will be home exhibitions in August against Laramie County Community College (WY) and Mesa Community College (AZ).