Alexa Vega is a different player for Round Lake this season. Her evolution is ‘nothing short of inspiring.'

Chicago Tribune

21-04-2025

Round Lake junior midfielder Alexa Vega is in control this season.
A captain for a young team, Vega also keeps her cool during games. That wasn't always the case during her first two seasons as a varsity starter.
'Yes, I did have a temper,' she said. 'It was not good in my freshman and sophomore years. It was kind of bad. I would get yellow cards here and there. I knew I had to bring it down so I wouldn't hurt my team.'
Vega is helping her team in other ways, too, and Round Lake coach Hugo Tellez sees a correlation.
'She's a gamer and tries so hard,' Tellez said. 'She puts a lot on herself but is starting to understand the game better, and it's showing with her goals and assists.'
Indeed, Vega has 11 goals and seven assists for the Panthers (4-4-2, 1-0), who won their Northern Lake County Conference opener against Grant last week. She has shown she can be a productive leader for a group that includes two freshmen and two sophomores in the starting lineup.
'She's matured a lot from last year to this year,' Tellez said.
Vega has certainly impressed Round Lake junior defender Daisy Lopez this season.
'Her transition into upperclassman status has only amplified her impact,' Lopez said. 'Wearing the No. 10 jersey this season, she has taken on the legacy and responsibilities left by former leaders. She's not just meeting expectations, but she's surpassing them.
'Her growth on and off the field has been nothing short of inspiring. Alexa is more than just a talented athlete. She is the driving force behind our team's success. She's also a leader in every sense of the word and a player who truly defines what it means to be exceptional.'
Vega said her skills have improved too.
'I'm more technical this season,' she said. 'That's helped me a lot. I like to dribble a lot and make plays.'
Lopez said the Panthers can count on Vega to make plays all the time.
'Alexa is the complete package,' Lopez said. 'While some players can show flashes of skill, she delivers consistently.'
Vega has delivered since the season opener on March 17, when she scored three goals as Round Lake beat Larkin 8-1. That game gave her confidence.
'I was feeling good, and all my teammates were connecting the ball, and we all played well,' she said.
Vega has a lot to do with those connections, according to Lopez.
'Alexa has grown into a leader who not only sets the standard but also elevates the team,' Lopez said. 'Her presence on the team unites us, allowing us to play the kind of connected and inspired soccer that brings out the best in everyone. Alexa's influence sets her apart.'