Westmoore’s Johan Juarez – Academic Athlete of the Month Presented by Republic Bank & Trust

By Kelsey Baucom

This year marks the 13th year of playing soccer for Westmoore sophomore Johan Juarez. He says that the sport came naturally to him since he grew up in a “soccer family.” He currently plays attacking mid for the Jaguars, and also runs cross country.

Juarez has excelled in soccer, making All-District as a freshman last year. He enjoys the competition, especially when the opposing team includes a friend of his.

“The most fun part about high school is playing against your friends from other schools,” he said. “Also, getting to play with different people that come in every year.”

Juarez plays club soccer as well as for his high school. His club team recently qualified for nationals, where they will compete this summer.

“I play for a club soccer team out in Edmond. In December we qualified for nationals this summer,” he said. “It’s really exciting to be apart of the team with them!”

The success Juarez has seen on the soccer field, he also strives for in his academics. He works to maintain a 4.36 GPA and is ranked 87 of 637 in his class at Westmoore High. He knows that his education can affect his career in the future, so he is always aiming to advance his knowledge and make sure he understands the material being taught.

His favorite class and one that he learns a lot in is chemistry. He likes how challenging it is and he compares it to solving a puzzle. His teachers at Westmoore have been influential in his learning.

“My teachers are really great and provide extra help when needed. They really do deserve a great appreciation from all the students,” said Juarez. “I don’t really don’t have [a favorite teacher], they all are very nice and funny! They ask me questions about sports and I feel as if I can talk to each one as my friend.”

As only a sophomore, Juarez has plenty of time to determine his post-graduation plans, but he does know that he wants to continue playing soccer.