FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — On Friday, Max Arfsten will suit up for the U.S. men’s soccer team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first Fresno native to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
The journey to the World Cup began for Arfsten at San Joaquin Memorial High School, where he struck fear into the hearts of opponents with his prolific goal-scoring.
In his 2019 senior season, the Panthers’ attacking midfielder scored 51 goals and tallied 19 assists over 26 starts.
Yes, Arfsten nearly averaged two goals per match, and he grew so dominant that one Yosemite HS player had begged SJM coach Randy Prescott to sub Arfsten out.
On the afternoon of Dec. 12, 2018, Arfsten recorded a hat trick in the first half. After the Yosemite plea, Arfsten scored one more goal before coming out.
Prescott shared that story from Oakhurst – and much more – with FOX26 on the Sunday Night Sports Highlights Show.
His former high school coach reflected on what separated Arfsten from the rest of the talent-rich Central Valley.