Women's Soccer Head Coach, Cesar Plasencia Inducted into Mexican American Sports Association Hall of Fame

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Cosumnes River College women's soccer head coach and former Hawk student-athlete Cesar Plasencia has been inducted into the Mexican American Sports Association Hall of Fame, following the organization's ceremony on March 28, 2026.

The prestigious honor recognizes Plasencia's decades of excellence as both a player and coach, along with his lasting impact on generations of student-athletes throughout the Sacramento region and beyond. The Mexican American Sports Association Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have made significant cultural, athletic, and community contributions, and Plasencia now joins a distinguished group of honorees whose influence has helped shape the Sacramento sports landscape.

A Sacramento native, Plasencia's journey in the game began on local fields and carried him to the professional ranks in both the United States and Mexico. A versatile midfielder and forward, he competed at a high level across multiple leagues, including a stint with Atlas FC in Mexico's First Division, along with the Sacramento Senators, Real Santa Barbara, and the Salt Lake Sting. His path from local standout to international professional reflects both his talent and deep-rooted passion for the game.

"Cesar Plasencia is everything we hope our student-athletes become," said Collin Pregliasco, CRC Dean of Kinesiology, Health and Athletics and Athletic Director. "From his time as a student-athlete to his success as a coach, he has demonstrated an unmatched commitment to Cosumnes River College and to the young people he mentors every day."

Following his playing career, Plasencia transitioned into coaching, where his impact has been even more far-reaching. Since taking over as head coach of the Cosumnes River College women's soccer program in 2004, he has built the Hawks into one of the premier programs in California community college athletics. Under his leadership, CRC has captured multiple conference championships, consistently competed atop the Big 8 Conference standings, and made multiple California Community College Athletic Association Final Four appearances.

"What truly sets Cesar apart is how deeply he cares," Pregliasco added. "He has created a culture within our program that goes beyond wins and losses, one built on connection, accountability, and pride. For many of his student-athletes, being part of his program is one of the most impactful experiences of their lives."

Beyond the accolades, Plasencia has remained deeply committed to the holistic development of his student-athletes, emphasizing academic success, personal growth, and character. From 2015 to 2025, he also served as Director of Soccer for Blackhawks Soccer Club, where he oversaw player development and coaching education while guiding elite youth teams. During his tenure, numerous players advanced to the collegiate level and beyond.

He holds a U.S. Soccer Federation "A" License, the highest level of coaching certification in the United States, and previously served as an assistant coach at Sacramento State from 1998 to 2004. Across every level, his influence has helped shape the careers of hundreds of players while continuing to grow the game throughout the Sacramento community, particularly within the Hispanic community.

"This Hall of Fame recognition is incredibly well deserved, and while it honors everything he has accomplished, I know his story at CRC is still being written," Pregliasco said. "His legacy will continue to shape our department long after his final match on the sidelines."

While this honor celebrates a lifetime of achievement, Plasencia's work remains ongoing as he continues to lead the Hawks and mentor student-athletes on and off the field.

"I am sincerely honored by this recognition and humbled to be included among such a distinguished group of athletes and remarkable individuals who inspire both on and off the field," said Plasencia.

Cosumnes River College Athletics remains committed to excellence in competition, academics, and community engagement, with Plasencia's leadership continuing to exemplify what it means to be a Hawk.