Jose “Pepe” Medina was an amazing soccer star during his tenure at Napa High. A two-year captain for the varsity soccer team, Medina started for the varsity as their center midfielder as a sophomore. His efforts on the field led to back-to-back Monticello Empire League Championships during the 1993-94 and 1994-95 seasons. Medina led those teams to a combined record of 22-2. Medina captained the Indians to the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Championship and the Indians enjoyed their most successful soccer season to date before falling to Oakmont High School (Roseville) in sudden-death penalty kicks, making the match arguably one of Napa High’s most exciting soccer games in the school’s history.
Medina received many accolades for his soccer skills, including selections to the All-Napa County soccer team and he was a two-time Team MVP of the 1993 and 1994 squads. Medina was also Napa Valley Register Athlete of the Week and capped off his NHS soccer career with a selection as All-Napa County Player of the Year as a senior.
“Jose is, without question, one of the finest all-around soccer players ever to play at Napa High,” said Medina’s coach and fellow Hall of Fame member, Justin Aaron. “Despite all the individual accomplishments Jose amassed in his soccer career at Napa High School, what I remember most is his passion for the game, and dedication to his team.”
Medina continued his soccer career at Sonoma State, and his passion for the game led him to signing a professional contract with the California Jaguars out of Modesto. Following his professional career, Medina pursued a degree in P.E, and received his teaching credential. Medina has coached numerous soccer teams at all levels and currently teaches P.E. at Silverado Middle School.