The Las Positas College women’s soccer program enters the new season with optimism, resilience and a drive to establish itself as one of the Bay Area’s most competitive junior college teams. Under the leadership of head coach Andrew Cumbo, now in his 10th year guiding both the men’s and women’s squads, the Hawks are determined to continue their upward trajectory.
While much of the attention last year fell on the men’s playoff run, the women’s team quietly laid the foundation for success of its own. The Hawks battled through a challenging schedule and showed flashes of promise that set the tone for 2025. For Cumbo, the goal is clear: build a program centered on player development, chemistry and growth — even as rosters constantly change at the junior college level.
A Coach with Vision
Managing two teams is no small task, but Cumbo remains energized by the opportunity.
“I still love coaching and I love working with players at this level,” he said. “Soccer opened up a lot of doors in my life, and part of my job now is to serve the game and give back to these young athletes.”
That philosophy extends beyond the field. Cumbo sees his role as equal parts teacher, mentor and motivator — especially for players who may not have expected to find themselves in a community college program.
“The majority of my players never dreamed of playing here,” he said. “They dreamed of competing at a higher level. A lot of them slipped through the cracks for one reason or another, and my goal is to help them accept that and then make the most of this opportunity to grow and develop.”
A Core of Returners and New Talent
Like the men’s squad, the women’s team faced its share of roster turnover during the offseason. A handful of returners provide leadership, but the Hawks are also relying on transfers and freshmen eager to make their mark.
The roster has been bolstered by versatile midfielders and dynamic attackers who fit Cumbo’s system, which emphasizes ball control, discipline and chemistry. Early in the season, that balance has already paid off. In their Aug. 26 opener against Feather River, the Hawks fell behind early but clawed their way back to secure a 1-1 draw. Valeska Torres provided the crucial equalizer, while captain Reece Bingham anchored the midfield.
Three days later, the team showed its potential in a 2-1 victory over Siskiyous, with Bingham and Torres both finding the back of the net. The results left Las Positas with a 1–0–1 start, a confidence boost for a roster still learning to gel.
Chemistry is Key
For Cumbo, these early results underscore the importance of team chemistry.
“I spend a tremendous amount of time trying to build the foundation of what this new group is and who we are as a program,” he said. “That’s super time-consuming, but it’s what allows us to click early in the season.”
Players have echoed that sentiment.
“This year feels different,” Bingham said after the win over Siskiyous. “The chemistry is already strong, and we’re building off it every day.”
That chemistry will be critical in a season where every point matters. With a competitive conference schedule ahead, the Hawks will need to rely on their collective spirit as much as individual talent.
Looking Ahead
The road won’t be easy, but Cumbo welcomes the challenge. His coaching philosophy emphasizes resilience, preparation and perspective. Lessons he believes carry beyond soccer.
“It’s tough,” he said. “You don’t have a lot of experience at this level, and it’s a huge task to coach both programs. But we’re doing all we can behind the scenes to serve our student-athletes here.”
For the Hawks, that service means creating opportunities for players to grow on and off the field. Whether it’s transfers looking for a second chance or freshmen adjusting to the college game, Cumbo’s program is designed to build confidence and prepare athletes for the next step.
As the women’s team continues its season, one thing is clear: This is a group determined to compete, improve and make noise in the postseason conversation. With early signs of progress, strong leadership from captains such as Reece Bingham and a coaching staff committed to player development, the Hawks have every reason to believe that 2025 can be a breakthrough year.
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Top photo: Hawks are playoff perennials, and that expectation doesn’t change with a retooled roster. (Photo by Sam Banes/ The Express)
Annie Moore is the Sports Editor of The Express. Follow her on X @SanJoseAnnie.
