Playing in the rugged West Catholic Athletic League, a sophomore keeper would figure to allow her share of goals. But that was not the case with Presentation’s Lauren Zontos, who posted eight clean sheets, being named the WCAL co-Player of the Year in the process.

One of Zontos’ most impressive performances no doubt came during a January win over Saint Francis. Even though the Lancers peppered the net with eight shots on goal, Zontos turned away each one of them. Four days later, eventual CCS Open Division champion Mitty got seven great looks at the Panthers’ net, and Zontos stopped five clean shots to preserve a 3-2 victory over the Monarchs.

“Lauren was a team captain this season and was so instrumental in every game for us,” said Presentation coach Todd Daniels. “She is a very intelligent goalie who reads the game extremely well. She is also both technically sound and durable, having started all 40 games over the past two years. Additionally, she inspires her teammates to play above and beyond their capabilities.”

If that sounds more like a senior leader, it’s because Zontos embraces the role of a leader, on and off the field. She carries a 4.2 GPA in the classroom and spends what little of the spare time she has volunteering for Atria Assisted Living and Special Needs Academy.

“Lauren is a huge part of our success over the past two years,” Daniels added. “She is true role model in every aspect.”

Presentation reached the Division I playoffs this year, capping the regular season with another shutout victory as Zontos kept Valley Christian off the scoreboard for the second time in as many games. She also posted a clean sheet in the second match against Saint Francis, and notable other performances came in a December meeting with Soquel and in a pair of meetings with a 13-win Sacred Heart Cathedral team.

One key note this season was that all but two of Presentation’s wins came by shutout, and two of their four draws were scoreless. That underscores the impact which Zontos had on the final outcome of each game.

For her efforts throughout the season, we are pleased to recognize Lauren Zontos as the Prep2Prep Central Coast Section Sophomore of the Year.

Other players considered include Soquel’s Sarah Canavan, Live Oak’s Karlie Lema, Mountain View’s Sistine Noel and Archbishop Mitty’s Alexa Arancio.

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 CCS soccer.