Mason Aguirre Delivers Game-Winning Goals for West Aurora

UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, West Aurora’s Mason Aguirre emerged as the hero, scoring twice and clinching a decisive penalty kick in the shootout, leading his team to a 3-2 victory over Oswego East in a Class 3A regional semifinal on October 21, 2025.

The urgency was palpable as Aguirre, a senior forward, faced the end of his high school career with just five minutes left on the clock. “I was just thinking I needed to do something,” Aguirre stated. “I’m a scorer and I’m the one in charge.” His leadership propelled West Aurora, the sixth seed with a record of 14-7-1, to victory.

After a tense match that ended in a 2-2 tie following regulation, Aguirre’s performance in the shootout secured a 4-2 win, setting the stage for West Aurora’s next challenge against third-seeded Plainfield Central this Saturday at 10 a.m..

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Aguirre’s goals were critical. Sophomore midfielders Jacob McPhee and Isaac Ruiz scored for Oswego East, but Aguirre’s late equalizer in the 76th minute shifted momentum back to West Aurora.

“I had faith in him that he was going to do something to change the game,” said senior goalkeeper Luis Garcia, praising Aguirre’s dedication and leadership.

Aguirre’s scoring prowess, now totaling a team-best 13 goals, has made him a central figure in the Blackhawks’ lineup. Senior midfielder Noe Del Rio emphasized Aguirre’s relentless pursuit of victory, stating, “He’s the main guy on our team and the one who’s hungriest to score goals.”

As Aguirre stepped up to take the decisive penalty kick, he felt a mix of nerves and confidence. “I was a little nervous at first, but I also know at the end of the day, it’s just a game,” he reflected. “I had full confidence in myself.”

The younger Aguirre, sophomore defender Gavin, has long admired his brother’s competitive spirit. “I had all the faith in him because this is what he has always been about,” he remarked, adding that Mason has consistently been a reliable presence on the field.

At 6-foot-1, Mason Aguirre combines physicality with a strategic mindset, likening his approach to the game to mathematics. “I look at the whole field. I know who’s best at what they do by goals and assists,” he noted.

With aspirations of playing at the college level, Aguirre understands the significance of this moment. “This is an opportunity you don’t get many times in your life. This might be my last chance. It’s do or die, and I need to go into every game at 100%,” he declared.

As West Aurora prepares for the upcoming regional final, all eyes will be on Aguirre, whose dedication and talent have ignited the Blackhawks’ playoff hopes.