Four members of West Valley's two-time 3C2A state runner-up squad will be taking their considerable talents to a pair of NCCA Division 1 programs, Viking coach Willo Rodriguez announced recently. Phil Portisch, a two-time All-American and the 2024 Coast Conference MVP, has signed with California Baptist University in Riverside. San José St. University's blue-and-gold caps will have orange-and-navy undertones in 2025 with the addition of a trio of Vikings: Alex Portera, Will Sidford and Berkecan Yalcin.

Portisch heads to SoCal with a slew of stellar statistics during his two years in Saratoga. He compiled a team-high 86 goals in 2024 and his 94 2023 scores gave him 180 for his career. He also dished out 89 assists and nabbed 115 steals in two years, while shooting 65.2% for his career.

"Phil was one of the most skilled athletes in all of California these last two years," said Rodriguez. "His high level of play will transition well into the D1 circuit."

All-American Yalcin ripped apart the 3C2A in 2023, scoring 131 goals, while handing out 87 assists and shooting 72%. He overcame an injury-plagued 2024 to score 33 goals, record 24 assists and nab 19 steals.

"Berke will go down as one of the best athletes we'ver ever had," Rodrigues said. "His work ethic and determination also make him successful in the game of life."

Portera and Sidford were key rotation players in helping West Valley to a 61-10 overall, 14-0 in the Coast, two-year record. Portera tallied 23 goals, 17 assists and 18 steals from 2023 to 2024, while Sidford finished his career with 27 goals, 26 assists and 29 steals.

"Portera's ability to play multiple positions on both offense and defense will be greatly missed," Rodriguez stated. "Will developed into one of the best 'quick-release shooters' we've ever had." 

Portisch, Portera, Sidford and Yalcin are the first four of the 2024 team to move on to the next level; more are expected to announce their four-year decisions in the weeks to come, according to Rodriguez.