A Victory Forged in Practice
The Cabrillo High School Drone Soccer team, known as the Flying Jags, captured the 2026 U.S. National Drone Soccer Championship, edging out a field of thousands of competitors. The senior‑laden roster, featuring Daniel Cerda, Luis Olivares, Destiny Montes and Arturo Vergara, had finished as runners‑up the previous year and turned that near‑miss into a decisive triumph.
Coaching and Talent
Coach Marco Flores and longtime instructor Kenneth Fisher praised the squad’s relentless preparation, noting that the team logged countless hours perfecting coordination and communication. Freshman flyer Joshua Poli, in only his first year of competition, delivered a standout performance that helped seal the victory.
Sponsorship and Community Support
The championship run was bolstered by a coalition of local sponsors, including Marathon Petroleum, the Port of Long Beach, Hydroform USA, Matson Navigation and AVID Promotions. Their support not only offset equipment costs but also gave the team a platform to showcase the growing appeal of drone‑based sport.
Looking Ahead
While the seniors will graduate and leave the program, the Flying Jags hope their success will inspire a new wave of flyers across the city. Organizers say the win could accelerate the adoption of Drone Soccer in schools and community centers, turning a niche pastime into a mainstream activity.