This week’s Orange Panther of the Week is men’s soccer midfielder Yurem Tapia Mendez. Last week, Mendez scored two goals as the Panthers defeated Eno River Academy 6-1 at Panther Soccer Field. It has been a season of game-winning goals for Mendez thus far. On August 12, in the season opener, Orange defeated Carrboro 1-0 in Hillsborough. It was the Panthers first-ever victory over the Jaguars. Mendez scored the only goal in the first half. On August 24, Mendez scored another game-winning goals in the second half as the Panthers defeated West Johnston 2-1 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary during the North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association Kickoff Classic. He started this season with six goals in the opening five games. The Panthers, after its win over Northern Durham on Wednesday night, is off to a 5-2 start. It’s the best start for the Panthers since 2016. Mendez is a big fan of FC Barcelona of Spain’s La Liga. He envisions playing soccer professionally in the future. Mendez is in his third year as a member of Orange’s varsity. Last season, he scored two goals across eight games. He added eight assists. Last season, Mendez scored goals against Southern Alamance and Walter Williams, a 2-1 Panthers win. He also had two assists in a win over Person.
Orange Panther of the Week: Yurem Tapia Mendez
This week’s Orange Panther of the Week is men’s soccer midfielder Yurem Tapia Mendez. Last week, Mendez scored two goals as the Panthers defeated Eno River Academy 6-1 at Panther Soccer Field. It has been a season of game-winning goals for Mendez thus far.