Signing up for the next chapter!

Former Central Spartan signs his letter of intent

The classic mantra "hard work pays off" certainly applies in the life of Jose Berlin Torres.

The recently graduated Central Union High School student athlete made strides in the classroom and in athletics.

Besides playing a pivotal role with the varsity football program under Rookie Peña as a punting, place kicking and kickoff specialist; Torres has especially thrived out on the pitch.

Torres was a 4-year varsity starter on the boys soccer team under Demian Rodiles, amassing 13 goals and 14 assists as a forward in his freshman and sophomore seasons combined.

During his junior and senior campaigns, he transitioned to goalkeeper, where he was equally, if not better than his previous position; allowing fewer than 1 goal a game, while securing 14 shutout performances in 30 total starts in front of the net.

Torres' efforts were crucial in the Spartans making back-to-back appearances in the CIF-San Diego Divisions 3 and 4 title games.

All of his hard work and success has now culminated in an opportunity at the next level.

On Wednesday, Torres signed his letter of intent at a special Facebook live ceremony at home.

He will be taking his soccer talents to San Diego Christian College out of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics in the Golden State Athletic Conference.

For Torres, this new reality was unexpected, but satisfying for one big reason.

"That was one of my dreams also too, like trying for a college or university. I didn't expect this to happen, reality, because it's something you don't see everyday. But, I work hard everyday in practice and all of that, (to) make it happen and thank God I make it happen."