Los Banos, CA (October 27, 2025) — In a recent press release, UC Merced announced a historic milestone for its men’s soccer program. The Bobcats earned their first-ever California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) victory on Sunday, led by Los Banos native Jake Perkins, who scored a decisive goal in the 90th minute.
His brother, Jimmy Perkins, leads the team in assists. It was a memorable day for the Perkins family, the Bobcats, and UC Merced athletics.
The full UC Merced press release is included below.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 26, 2025
Jake Perkins (Los Banos) delivered a 90th minute game winner and the University of California, Merced men’s soccer team beat Chico State 1-0 on Sunday afternoon to win its first ever CCAA match.The Bobcats (2-8-3, 1-5-1) game-winning goal was scored by Perkins with 35 seconds remaining. It marked his first career goal and the latest regulation game-winning goal in program history. Christian Gallo (Modesto) was credited with his first assist as a Bobcat.
Abel Calvillo earned his first shutout in a UC Merced uniform and recorded a career-high seven saves.
Sunday was also Senior Day for four Bobcat seniors.
UC Merced women’s soccer fell 3-2 to Chico State on Sunday afternoon and fell to 6-6-3 overall and 3-5 in CCAA play. Trinidad Quiroz and Jackie Tamayo scored the Bobcats goals in the first half. Quiroz’s goal was her seventh of the season and 48th in her career, moving her five goals away from breaking the program’s all-time scoring record. The Bobcats have three games remaining. Liliana Johnson (Ballico) and Sonya Gregororis (Patterson) registered assists. Chico State scored its game winner in the 78th minute to move into first place in the league.
