Of the 30 goals scored this past season by University-SF senior Max Edelstein, five of them came in the CIF NorCal regionals, as the Red Devils standout not only showcased his ability to score throughout the season, but also to get it done on the biggest stage.

In the quarterfinals of the NorCal tournament was where Edelstein shined brightest, despite a full season of having scored nearly at-will. Facing WCAL powerhouse Archbishop Mitty, Edelstein notched a whopping four goals, leading the small school power past the much larger opponent by a stunning score of 7-2. And yet, it was all a byproduct of his approach as a senior leader.

“Max really grew as a leader this year and took it upon himself to focus on the details that make oneself a better player,” said University coach Deejae Johnson. “His goal tally increased, but more importantly, his playmaking improved tremendously.”

The Red Devils’ season came to an end in the regional semifinals with a 3-2 loss to Central Section power and eventual NorCal Division III champ Madera South, but Edelstein still made an impact in that game, notching one of University’s two goals. The post-season performances were expected after a phenomenal regular season.

Edelstein’s ability to create against top programs manifested itself from the very start, as he scored twice during a 2-1 win over Sacred Heart Cathedral, a team which would eventually win a CCS title and reach the NorCal Division III title game, before also falling to Madera South. The Colgate commit added another brace in a 3-2 win over eventual CCS Division 2 runner-up Menlo, and scored twice more in a big 3-2 win over Marin Academy during the regular season. In the BCL-West title game, a rematch with Marin Academy, it was Edelstein who had a goal and an assist as the teams played to a 2-2 draw after regulation and overtime, with the Red Devils eventually winning on penalty kicks.

He did not slow down in the section playoffs, adding a goal and two assists during a quarterfinal win over Berean Christian, and then scoring both goals during a semifinal win over Saint Mary’s-Albany, who had beaten University during the regular season. Later came his regional heroics, all of which added up to a 30-goal, 15-assist campaign to conclude his high school career.

“We are really proud of Max’s personal development and his contributions to our program in ways that go beyond the spreadsheet,” Johnson added.

For his efforts throughout the season, we are pleased to recognize Max Edelstein as the Prep2Prep North Coast Section Senior of the Year.

Other players considered include Marin Academy’s Andoni Etcheverry, Marin Academy’s Eric Sachleben, Foothill’s Kamran Matin, Las Lomas’ Tim Weidinger and Vintage’s Diego Cortez.

NOTE: We would like to thank our media partners, coaches, parents, players and fans for contributing photos for our all-section features. We salute all of the players that have made this a wonderful season of NCS soccer.