Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Daniel Orozco Cifuentes (Boys' Soccer)



For Leominster High School senior Daniel Orozco Cifuentes, soccer isn’t just a game—it’s a lifelong passion fueled by family, hard work, and heart. Daniel began playing the sport at just nine years old after being introduced to it by his father. Since then, the game has been a constant source of joy, competition, and purpose in his life.

Daniel has been a four-year varsity starter for the Blue Devils, a player whose versatility and team-first mentality have made him invaluable to the program. Head coach Steve McCaughey praised Daniel’s unselfishness and commitment.

“Daniel has been a four-year varsity starter for me and played an integral role in the success we have had in the last few years,” McCaughey said. “Daniel does whatever is necessary to win. He has switched positions multiple times without complaint to fit the needs of the team.”

Last season, Daniel led as the team’s top striker, but this year, when Coach McCaughey asked him to switch to center back, he didn’t hesitate. His response—“Whatever it takes to win, Coach”—perfectly sums up his character and leadership. 

McCaughey added, “Daniel moved to Texas at the end of his junior season, but his whole family just moved back to Leominster so that he could play his senior season here. He is every coach’s dream come true—extremely talented and willing to run through a wall for you.”

For Daniel, what he enjoys most about being part of the LHS team is the great times shared with his teammates, both on and off the field. The friendships and bonds built through competition mean as much to him as the wins themselves.

He’s also learned valuable lessons from his coaches—especially that success doesn’t come easy. 

“The glory doesn’t come so easy, and to make it easier I have to work harder and get better,” he said, reflecting the same drive that has made him such a dependable leader.

After high school, Daniel plans to continue his soccer journey—hopefully joining Atlético Madrid when he moves to Spain. If that opportunity doesn’t pan out, he’s considering playing for a professional team in Guatemala, who expressed interest in him last year. Beyond soccer, Daniel has ambitions of starting his own company and plans to work hard to make that dream a reality.

When he’s not on the field, Daniel enjoys playing soccer with friends or spending time with his family. He also has his eye on joining the volleyball team this year, eager to keep competing and learning.

His favorite class at LHS has been gym, where he could keep active and connect with his love of sports. As for teachers, Daniel says he’s liked all of them for different reasons, showing the same appreciation and humility that make him such a respected teammate.

As Daniel’s senior season continues, his legacy as a player who gives his all—for his teammates, his coaches, and his school—is already cemented. Leominster is lucky to have him back on the field, where his dedication and passion continue to shine.


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Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Daniel Orozco Cifuentes (Boys' Soccer)

For Leominster High School senior Daniel Orozco Cifuentes, soccer isn’t just a game—it’s a lifelong passion fueled by family, hard work, and...