The Loyola soccer team finished 22-2-4 this season, their best overall record since 2014. At the backbone of their success was Rex Winters ’25, the soccer team manager whose spirit and presence played a vital role in the team’s culture and energy throughout the season.
Rex’s presence with the team started off the field, with strong friendships and bonds with many of the players. Chris Walter ‘93 commented on Rex’s desire to become team manager: “He kind of jokingly said that maybe he should be the manager and the guys said we actually do need a manager. Rex came into my office with a couple of the seniors and asked if he could take the role. I sent him the schedule and the next day, he came back and said he definitely wanted to do it.”
From that moment on, Winters was all in. Ryley Smith ’25, who has known Rex since his freshman year, shares what influenced Rex’s decision to take the role. He said, “Rex already had some friends who were on the team and hearing them talk about fun moments at practice or upcoming big games made him want to get involved.”
Although Winters has a background primarily in basketball, he returned to his AYSO roots from childhood during his senior year to become an essential part of the soccer program. On game days, he took stats, helped with equipment, and brought a ton of energy to the team. “He brought a positive energy to the team and got the guys up and going for the games,” noted Walter. “He really connected with the guys.”
Winters really began to enjoy the role and his teammates loved his presence. “I soon found out how fun it was to hype up a crowd and cheer on teammates while over dressing for every game,” said Winters. “His signature game-day suit and tie brought a professional and positive presence to the sideline,” mentioned Smith. “He felt like just another teammate rather than someone simply doing a job.”
Winters’ role didn’t only consist of data and field set-up; he would sometimes join in on practices and throw on cleats to help the goalies with the drills, and he even scored a goal in the annual alumni game. His commitment to the team was unwavering and he would go out of his way to join the team at every game no matter the drive. “I believe that seeing his commitment definitely encouraged the team throughout the season,” stated Smith.
Not only did Rex bring energy and spirit to the entire team, he also proved himself as a leader more than just a team manager. During the team’s CIF semifinal win against Hart, Smith remarks on one of his most memorable moments of the season with Rex. “We were doing our routine handshakes and clapping for the parents when all of a sudden Rex came running forward in his signature suit, jumping up and down, throwing his arms in the air and yelling to fire up our home crowd.”
Even in high-pressure playoff situations, Rex managed to be supportive and bring stress off the players and coaches. “Just seeing him at the game in his suit brought a smile to my face,” expressed Walter. “During playoffs, when we have this intense environment, Rex would be out there shagging balls or taking shots in his suit.”
“He’s a very outgoing and fun person to be around, but is also very kindhearted—just all around a great guy,” states Smith. “That’s why our friendship has been so strong for so long.”
