Rams' Ivan Marquez Lara signs with Jessup University
The next chapter is set for one of Gavilan College Men's Soccer's most influential student-athletes.
After two seasons anchoring the Rams' back line, Gavilan center defender Ivan Marquez Lara has committed to continue his academic and athletic career at Jessup University, where he will compete at the NCAA Division II level.
A fixture in the Gavilan lineup, Marquez started nearly every match during his two-year career and established himself as one of the program's most reliable and respected leaders. While he never wore the captain's armband, teammates and coaches often referred to him as the "captain without the armband" because of the example he set through his work ethic, consistency, and commitment to the team.
His impact extended well beyond the field. While balancing the demands of collegiate athletics, Ivan Marquez was also dual enrolled at San Jose State University, demonstrating the same dedication in the classroom that he brought to training and competition.
His efforts were recognized throughout the 2025 season, when he was voted the team's Defensive MVP by his teammates. At the conclusion of the academic year, he received one of Gavilan College Athletics' highest honors, being named the Gavilan College Male Student-Athlete of the Year.
"What makes Ivan Marquez Lara special isn't just the player he became, it's the person he is," said Gavilan Head Coach Ivan Bastida. "He embodies what it means to be a successful student-athlete. As a daily commuter, he balanced the demands of academics and athletics while becoming someone our program could always count on. He led by example every day, earned the respect of his teammates, and has left a lasting impact on this program. We're incredibly proud of him and excited to see him continue his journey at Jessup."
For Marquez, the opportunity to continue playing at the next level is the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance.
"Signing to play at the Division II level feels amazing," he said. "It's a dream come true being able to play at a level this high, and it's an accomplishment that I am very proud of. More than anything, it's proof that all the hard work was worth it."
Throughout his journey, he credits Gavilan College for providing support every step of the way. Whether it was assistance with academics, registration, finances, or simply making sure he was mentally prepared for the challenges of being a student-athlete, he found a community that helped him succeed.
He also acknowledged the role his family played in helping him reach this milestone, supporting him through the sacrifices required to pursue his goals, including a daily commute and the challenges of adapting to a new environment while chasing his dream of continuing both his education and soccer career.
Looking ahead, Ivan Marquez is excited to embrace the opportunities that come with competing at a higher level. The professional environment, team culture, travel, and daily competition are all experiences he has long envisioned. Beyond earning his bachelor's degree in business at Jessup, he hopes to continue his education at the graduate level and pursue opportunities to play professionally.
As he prepares for the next stage of his journey, he leaves behind a legacy defined by leadership, resilience, academic excellence, and a commitment to representing Gavilan College with pride.
The entire Gavilan College Athletics family congratulates Ivan Marquez Lara on his commitment to Jessup University and looks forward to following his continued success both on and off the field.