After a first year at Stanislaus State in 2022 in which positive results on the scoreboard were hard to come by, former Napa High School soccer standout Samuel Villanueva wasn’t entirely sure what the future would hold.
Villanueva’s story is one of persistence and patience. In turn, he blossomed into what many coaches, teammates and staff describe as one of the most important players in the history of the Warriors men’s soccer program.
“I chose Stan State because I felt that it was the only school that chose me,” Villanueva said.
It’s a sentiment that especially rang true with the arrival of current head coach John Powell ahead of the 2023 season.
The Warriors had just nine combined wins in Villanueva’s first two seasons. But his hard work under the direction of Powell earned him the title of team captain in his junior and senior seasons. His leadership was key as the Warriors finished the 2025 season with a 17-2-1 record (.917 winning percentage), marking the winningest season in the program’s history.
Villanueva, a defender, set a new single-season program record with 13 assists in his memorable senior year. His 17 career assists also rank first all-time, and his 29 career points are among the top 10 in Warrior history. He earned All-American honors from United Soccer Coaches and Division II Conference Commissioners Association (D2CCA).
“Sammy’s impact on the men’s soccer program and Stan State is extremely tough to put into words,” Powell said. “When he arrived on campus in 2022, he was a reserved, soft-spoken young man with so much potential. More impressive than the countless accolades is the leader that he developed into while helping take our program to unprecedented heights. His impact is one that will last forever, and I am better for having been fortunate enough to work with him for as long as I have.”
For all the hours he spent at Warrior Stadium perfecting his soccer skills and rallying the dynamic Stan State squad, Villanueva’s passion and leadership skills translated into the classroom, as he earned a 3.59 GPA while majoring in psychology and minoring in communication studies. For his efforts, Villanueva was named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District and United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-Region Team.
“I have been involved in college athletics for 30 years, and Sammy is one of the best all-around student-athletes that I have ever been associated with,” said Joe Danahey, senior communications specialist for Stan State Athletics. “He bleeds the Stan State colors and has grinded to get to where he is today. He is one of the major reasons for the turnaround of Stan State men’s soccer, helping the program become one of the best teams in the nation.”
A man of many talents and interests, Villanueva hopes to someday become a professional soccer player and eventually a coach. Away from the field, he’d love to become a school counselor. He has also spent time learning the ropes as a barber.
“Stan State has taught me to always trust the process, as everything becomes a stepping stone to whatever life throws at you next,” Villanueva said.
Wherever he ends up, the mission remains the same: “I want to improve and motivate the lives of others in order for them to find the best version of themselves, as well as my own self.”
#StanGrad File
Name
Samuel Villanueva Martinez
Hometown
Napa, CA
Degree/Credential
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Minor in Communication Studies
What memories stand out most from your time at Stanislaus State?
“Winning the 2025 California Collegiate Athletic Association Men’s Soccer Tournament championship!”
Which faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you, and why?
“Coach John Powell. He has always brought out the best of me, whether that’s on the field or off the field. He has always wanted what’s best for me, and I’m extremely thankful to have someone like him on my side.”
What advice would you give to current and future students?
“Enjoy every moment.”
Note: This article is part of the StanGrad series highlighting Stanislaus State students who are part of the Class of 2026. Read more StanGrad profiles.
