A Rising Star's Journey
Vicky Tejada, a senior at La Salle‑Peru High School, has been crowned the 2026 NewsTribune Girls Soccer Player of the Year, capping a season that delivered 25 goals and seven assists while showcasing a blend of speed, aggression, and leadership.
Though she did not begin organized soccer until sixth grade, Tejada made an immediate impact, opening the season with two goals in a 2‑0 win over Mendota and later scoring five goals in a victory over Streator, quickly establishing herself as a potent offensive force.
Head coach Christin Pappas praised Tejada as a dominant player who controls the tempo of the game and elevates the performance of every teammate, describing her as the type of athlete who makes the entire squad better.
Beyond her on‑field contributions, Tejada has taken the initiative to organize indoor soccer sessions in DeKalb during the winter, using the sport to keep her teammates sharp and to foster camaraderie off the pitch.
Committed to continuing her career at Aurora University, Tejada’s coach believes she will make an immediate impact at the next level, a prospect that excites both the program and observers alike.