AV ALTA FC adds All-League midfielder Jimmie Villalobos (original) (raw)

Southern California native set for fifth League One campaign | Image Credit: Chattanooga Red Wolves SC

LANCASTER, Calif. - AV ALTA FC today announced the signing of 2024 All-League Second Team midfielder Jimmie Villalobos, pending league and federation approval.

The Bakersfield, Calif. native attended the College of the Desert in 2014 and played one season with the Roadrunners before transferring to Cal Poly in 2017. During his time there, Villalobos made 67 appearances, scored 35 goals and tallied 11 assists. His production earned him numerous accolades, including United Soccer Coaches All-America First Team, D2CCA West Region Player of the Year, CCAA Offensive Player of the Year and more. While attending college, Villalobos also played for FC Golden State Force in USL League Two.

In 2020, Villalobos signed with NISA's Los Angeles Force; however, the season was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, he joined Chattanooga Red Wolves SC, making his debut in USL League One. Villalobos led the Red Wolves to the 2022 USL League One Final, finishing the year with 32 appearances, four goals and two assists. The midfielder played for One Knoxville SC during the 2023 USL League One season, where he appeared in 32 matches, scored three goals and had three assists.

Last season, Villalobos joined Forward Madison FC on loan from Knoxville. The 29-year-old made 34 appearances with the 'Mingos, helping Madison reach the USL Jägermeister Cup Final and the Semifinals of the USL League One Playoffs.

“We're excited to welcome Jimmie to the AV ALTA FC family," said Nehemias Blanco, AV ALTA FC General Manager. "His ability to read the game, control the tempo, and create opportunities will be very beneficial for the football that we envision. He's the perfect fit for what we're building here in the Antelope Valley."

A Southern California native, Villalobos' signing highlights the club's dedication to spotlighting local talent and investing in players who understand the unique pride of representing their community.

"I'm honored to join AV ALTA FC and be a part of something special from the beginning," said Villalobos. "It means so much to play close to home and to contribute to a team that's committed to making a difference in the Antelope Valley."