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Amador soccer star awarded BUSC scholarship
Dane Shaffar headed for Sonoma State

by Nicole Doi

At 5 years old, Dane Shaffar ran onto the soccer field for the first time. Now, nearly 13 years later, the 2012 Amador Valley High graduate is headed to play soccer at his dream school, Sonoma State.

"It's really funny, when I was younger, I always went to tournaments at Sonoma. I always loved the school, but I never knew that I would actually end up there," Shaffar said.

Born and raised in Pleasanton, Shaffar began his soccer career with the Ballistic United Soccer Club, where he played Division 1 from U8s through U19s.

At Amador, Shaffar continued his soccer career and was named captain of the freshmen team, and continued to shine throughout his high school career. Senior year, he was captain of the boy's varsity team.

Shaffar was recognized for his talent on the field as a junior, when he was chosen for the Second-Team All League for the East Bay Athletic League. He further proved his soccer abilities senior year when he was selected for the First-Team All League.

He was also named Amador boy's varsity MVP junior and senior year, making history as the only soccer player at Amador to receive the prestigious award for two consecutive years.

"What makes Dane a special person is his love for his family, loyalty to his friends, and the pride he has each and every day when he represents his community and Amador," wrote Rob Flores, assistant varsity soccer coach at Amador, in his letter of recommendation for the Ballistic United Soccer Club and Erik Lemoine Scholarship.

In 2010, Shaffar had the privilege of playing for the Olympic Development Program as a member of the Cal North State Team.

Soccer has always played a large role in Shaffar's life.

"He has always had a passion for soccer and because he made it his life, we made it ours," said Mitzi Shaffar, Dane's mother.

Dane Shaffar attributes much of his success to those who have all supported him along the way.

"Soccer has pretty much been my life. I find inspiration to succeed in my love of soccer, my family, my teammates, my coaches and the community," Shaffar said. "I like being a part of something bigger."

This year Shaffar was awarded the Ballistic United Soccer Club and Erik Lemoine Scholarship, which is presented to Foothill or Amador seniors who have represented BUSC, their school and their community in an outstanding manner.

"I feel that Dane Shaffar's character and leadership make him a role model not just for soccer players but for anyone who is looking at what is right with our youth today," Amador varsity soccer coach Ken Villegas wrote in his letter of recommendation.

At Sonoma State University, Shaffar plans to major in business. As a recruit for the SSU Seawolves, he will play under head coach Markus Ziemer.

"I can't wait to get on the field and play with the team," Shaffar said. "There's always room for improvement, and being surrounded by so many talented players and lead by such an amazing coach, Coach Markus, will give me the opportunity to get better."