Photo credit: Craig Mitchelldyer

La Salle Catholic College Preparatory is proud to announce student athlete Vance Sheffield '25 has earned national recognition by Sports Illustrated as one of the top 20 high school boys soccer players in the nation. This prestigious acknowledgment is a testament to Vance's exceptional skill, dedication, and sportsmanship on the soccer field.

A decorated athlete with an outstanding track record, Sheffield led La Salle to a dominating 14-4 overall record, recording 32 goals and 10 assists and leading the Falcons to the 2023 state semifinals. Earlier this week, Sheffield was named the 2023 Oregon 5A Boys’ Soccer Player of the Year and First Team All State. In addition, he earned First Team All-Conference and Conference Player of the Year for the 5A Northwest Oregon Conference recognition, while also receiving a nomination for the 2023-24 Oregon HS Gatorade Boys Soccer Player of the Year.  

“I’m honored to have been chosen by Sports Illustrated to be a top 20 player in the nation in soccer for the 2023 high school year and one of only three juniors,” said Sheffield. “I’m thankful to my teammates and coaches who make me a better player every day in practice and games. There are many good players on my team! I’m thankful to represent La Salle and I am appreciative to them for the platform to excel both athletically and academically.”

Some may say that what truly makes Sheffield a star on the pitch is his scoring prowess—which the junior leads his team in goals scored. Sheffield has shown that his overall game plan is to put the team in the best positions to win and to help those around him get better. This mindset is a large contributor to Sheffield also being honored as the 2022 1st Team All-Northwest Oregon Conference player.

"Our entire program and school couldn't be more proud of Vance,” said boys soccer head coach Monty Hawkins. “What is so impressive about him is his willingness and commitment to always do whatever it takes to help the team reach their goals. Vance has been a prolific goal scorer for us over the last three years not just in terms of quantity, but quality as well. He has one more year left at La Salle and we feel blessed to have him back to lead the team.”

Athletics may be a large part of Vance’s life, but his stardom shines in many other ways. As a scholar athlete, Vance prides himself with incredible intellect and intuition showcased through his rigorous honors classwork. In addition to boasting a 3.5 GPA, Vance plays for the La Salle varsity basketball team and is the kicker for the football team where he earned Honorable Mention All-State recognition.