J.D Hauenstein, Nathan Grinalds determined to lead Central Valley back to state

By the lofty standards of soccer at Central Valley High School, last year’s runner-up finish at state didn’t measure up.

After 19 straight wins – including Greater Spokane League, district and regional titles – the Bears fell to defending champ Snohomish in the 4A title game, 3-1.

“It was a great season, but losing the championship game was bittersweet,” CV coach Andres Monrroy said.

The sweet part was the reaction of his returning players. “From the moment we lost, some of the juniors came up to me and said, ‘We’re going to win it next year, coach,’” Monrroy said.

Saying it was one thing, but the Bears’ actions spoke even louder. The day after Monrroy’s girls’ team finished its season, the boys were ready for action.

That was in November. Since then, J.D. Hauenstein and Nathan Grinalds have led the Bears through a winter of conditioning drills, kickarounds and twice-a-week sessions in the weight room.

“We just wanted to get going early,” said Hauenstein, who also practiced with the Shadow over the winter and plans to play with them this summer.

Not surprisingly, Hauenstein and Grinalds are this year’s co-captains – an easy decision for Monrroy. “Their leadership off the field has been amazing,” he said.

On the field, Monrroy couldn’t ask for a better example of leadership by example. Last year, Grinalds’ stellar midfield play was rewarded with an all-GSL first-team selection.

Hauenstein, a forward, not only made the first team but was the league’s offensive MVP.

“Our skillls and talent are not up for discussion,” Monrroy said. “It’s how were going to build team chemistry and working together.”

Said Grinalds: “I think that leading by example is the most efficient way. Last year, we had some great seniors, and it showed.”

“We pride ourselves on winning, and over the past few years it’s really gotten us motivated to win,” said Hauenstein, who also was first-team all state last year after scoring 17 goals. “Honestly, I think that helps, plus our team chemistry – everybody enjoys being around each other.”

Indeed, the Bears were in good spirits before getting down to business at practice last week.

For Monrroy, the biggest challenge is replacing five graduated starters, including all-GSL defenders Braden Corigliano and Gabe Grabowski and goalkeeper Andrew Enzler.

Midfield will again be a strength. Besides Grinalds, the Bears have R.J. Stretch and all-GSL second-teamer Chase Reidt.

Senior Kendall Findley will step in at goalkeeper. “We need Kendall to step up,” Monrroy said.

So far, so good: the Bears are 3-1 going into league play and have given up just two goals.