On January 21, 2023, tragedy struck the Woodrow Wilson High School soccer team when senior player Wornan Garcia was fatally shot just a day after delivering an inspiring pregame speech to his teammates. Garcia, who had moved to the United States from Mexico and was beginning his first season on the varsity team, addressed his peers with a heartfelt message about unity and teamwork before their match against Bryan Adams.
Garcia’s words resonated deeply, particularly because he had overcome a significant language barrier during his time at the school. His head coach, Antonio Limon, translated Garcia’s speech from Spanish, emphasizing the importance of sticking together as a team. Tragically, the following day, Garcia was shot at Willis C. Winters Park, located across from the Woodrow campus. A 16-year-old suspect has since been taken into custody, facing murder charges.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, Garcia’s message has taken on new meaning for his teammates. Senior player Eithan Ramirez reflected on how Garcia’s courage to speak up has inspired him and others to step into leadership roles. “It showed that he really cared about us as a team and how we were performing,” Ramirez expressed. “He wanted us to play our game and see a better future for us.”
Garcia was known for his unwavering positivity on and off the field. Despite challenges in communication, he built strong connections with his teammates. Coach Limon noted, “He made sure that those kids felt welcome, whether it was a freshman or a new senior. That kid was a great kid.”
As the Woodrow Wilson team prepared for their first home game since Garcia’s death, they honored him by wearing warm-up shirts emblazoned with his name and number, 21. A moment of silence was observed at Pleasant Grove Stadium, where both teams united in remembrance at midfield.
The emotional impact of Garcia’s loss has transformed team dynamics. Limon emphasized that the huddles now carry added significance, as players draw strength from Garcia’s vision for their success. “It’s not just me saying that anymore. They have Wornan saying that in the back of their heads,” he remarked.
During the match against Mesquite Poteet, Woodrow Wilson started strong, taking the lead with a goal from senior Nicholas Duplan. Even after Poteet equalized, Woodrow fought back, ultimately winning 2-1 with a goal from Ramirez. The celebration was filled with emotion, reflecting the deeper significance of the victory. “Honestly, this season, regardless of winning or losing, it’s kind of just about how are we gonna carry him with us forever?” Duplan said.
Coach Limon is navigating not only his grief but also helping his players process their loss. He emphasizes vulnerability and encourages open expression of emotions. “If they can’t, then I’m kind of helping them get through these things,” he said. “By helping them, I get to go through my own emotions and be okay myself.”
As the team grapples with their loss, the bonds they share have grown stronger. “The team means everything,” Duplan noted. “It just feels like even more of a family now, even though we’re missing a piece.”
When asked what they would like others to know about Garcia, teammates unanimously highlighted his positivity. “He was a great guy, a genuine person,” Ramirez said. “He was just someone you want to get to know and be around.”
Garcia’s enduring smile and spirit continue to inspire his teammates, serving as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community. As they move forward, the Woodrow Wilson soccer team carries his memory with them, united in purpose and solidarity.
