Written by Russ Hodges, Sports Editor
ROCHELLE — The football pipeline from Rochelle Township High School to Kishwaukee College continues to grow, with senior forward Diego Salazar signing to continue his academic and football career with the Cougars next year. Salazar, an Interstate 8 All-Conference first-team honoree, scored his 20 goals and recorded five assists for the Habs during the 2023 season.
“I chose Kishwaukee College because it's so close to home and the tuition is affordable,” Salazar said. “I also received a scholarship. I want to work harder and improve, get more scouts to pay attention to me, and continue my soccer career.'' It was about communicating with them and making sure they knew what to do on the field.”
Salazar played four years of soccer at RTHS, all four years at the varsity level. The left-footed forward had 22 goals and four assists at Interstate 8 in his junior season, earning All-Conference Honorable Mention. Salazar had three goals and three assists as a sophomore and four goals and five assists as a freshman.
“coach [Male] He pushed all of us to be better players, and I think that will help us in college,” Salazar said. “Remembering how he pushed me motivates me to try harder in college. I want to be a good player in college as a freshman and I've always wanted to be a good player in college since I started playing soccer. Playing forward is where I’m most comfortable because I’ve played in that position.”
Salazar, who started playing soccer at age 6, said he hopes to continue his education and athletic career at a four-year school after completing his studies at Kishwaukee. Salazar is currently on the Rochelle Hub track and field team.
“I enjoy the intensity of soccer when you're playing against a good team,” Salazar said. “This is a sport that brings people together and a way to meet new friends. I want to be a good teammate with the Kishwaukee College team and I'm going to do whatever they ask of me. .”
Salazar is one of a number of Rochelle Hub soccer players who have continued their careers at Kishwaukee College in recent years. Other RTHS graduates include Jared Montano, Josue Orozco, Josh Hurtado, Max Torres, Josue Almaraz, Ruben Herrera, Juan Montemayor and Jesse Infante.
