Behind the Jersey: Aristeo Herrera – Building a Future in Soccer at College of the Redwoods

Published on Oct 16 2025

When Aristeo Herrera laces up his cleats for College of the Redwoods men’s soccer team, he’s not just stepping onto the field, he’s stepping into a lifelong passion first sparked by his father.

“I remember watching soccer with my dad from a very young age,” Herrera recalled. “He signed me up for rec soccer, and ever since, I have loved the sport.”

That early love for the game led Herrera through years of competitive soccer. He played varsity at Fortuna Union High School and club soccer with Sequoia FC, experiences that helped shape him into the player he is today. Now, as a center defensive midfielder for CR, Herrera is determined to make an impact.

Part of what drew him to College of the Redwoods was the vision of the program’s coach. “I already knew who the coach (Pedro Cortes-Garcia) was, and his vision for the soccer program made me not want to miss out,” Herrera said.

For Herrera, balancing life on and off the field requires discipline. His days often start around 7 a.m. with classes, followed by study hall in the late afternoon and practice in the evening. Free time is scarce, but he makes the most of it, whether hitting the gym, studying, or relaxing at home. On difficult days, Herrera leans on his long-term goals for motivation. “I stay motivated by remembering why I’m doing this—to go to the next level,” he explained. That drive has already paid off. One of his proudest moments came when CR won its first official preseason match, with Herrera both assisting and scoring the game-winning goal.

Soccer is as much about teamwork as it is about personal success for Herrera. “We push each other to be better and don’t take anything personally,” he said. “As much as we want to succeed personally, we want to succeed as a team.” That sense of unity shines through in team rituals, like huddling for a prayer before each game.

Off the field, Herrera enjoys playing video games, especially FIFA, and continuing to challenge himself in the gym. He’s also curious about other sports cultures on campus. “If I could trade places with any CR athlete for a day, it would be a football player,” he said. “Before our practice, we see them practice, and there are so many of them. I would like to experience that type of team culture.”

Herrera has set his sights high for the season, aiming to earn the All-Region NorCal award. But more than personal recognition, he wants to leave behind a legacy for the program and the community. “I hope people remember that I was a part of the team that changed the program’s trajectory, providing locals with a local pathway to college soccer,” Herrera said.

His advice to future student-athletes is simple but meaningful: “Cherish the time and live in the moment. Don’t take anything for granted. Take the time to reflect and see how far you have come.”

For Herrera, soccer isn’t just about wins and awards, it’s about growth, gratitude, and building something that lasts far beyond the final whistle.