Varsity:
The OHS boys soccer team has had a very successful season this year. Finding this success through consistent practices and their strong bond, the team has continued to build confidence that has shown great improvement compared to the last couple of seasons.
Playing at the varsity level brings an increase of pressure, but players say that the environment they are in has really helped them stay focused and motivated. The culture of this team has really pushed players through mistakes and helps them to continue.
“It’s a better surrounding for sure,” said Ronin Jackowski, sophomore. “The culture is different, and when someone messes up the team uplifts each other, and tells them to get the next one.”
That mindset has helped the team stay mentally tough throughout the matches, something that players say has been a key part of their success this season.
“Varsity teaches you to never quit and that there’s always time to do more,” Jackowski said.
Another big factor towards the team’s success has been the chemistry. Players describe the group as close, with strong relationships both on and off the field.
“We’ve really grown as a family throughout the season,” said Carson Garcia, sophomore. “We have a good connection for sure, and with that, we have won a lot of games.”
Players also have the responsibility to prepare themselves before a game, specifically academically, balancing both school work and athletics has helped him grow as both a student and as an athlete.
“If you don’t have the grades, you can’t play, so you have to lock in,” Garcia said. “Varsity has taught me that you can do whatever you put your mind to.”
JV:
The boys junior varsity soccer team has also worked hard this season, showing much promise for the future. This group has been working hard to develop more skills and chemistry. While the team is made up mostly of underclassmen, the team has done a great job at adjusting to the faster pacing of soccer and still staying competitive.
Players say that practices have been more demanding, which helps prepare them for game situations and teaches them how to respond to a mistake.
“There’s more running, and it’s more physical in high school,” said Kevin Lara, freshman. “If I mess up, I just try to forget about it, move on, and play through it.”
The team remains focused on development and consistency. With promising young players, the team is building a strong connection for the future.
“It helps with teamwork and getting closer as a group,” Lara said. “We’re just trying to win more games this year.”
Coaches have done a great job of making sure players practice teamwork and effort. Even as they continue to grow as athletes individually, the focus remains on winning games and growing together.
“The work that is put in is definitely a lot different [from] how it was before high school,” said Adnan Ahmetovic, freshman. “My coaches have definitely helped me get used to the faster pace and improve my technique since joining.”
The JV players are always seeking to improve their skills, and the varsity players help with that. It is a team that they can look up to.
“I like watching varsity,” Ahmetovic said. “They do a great job at setting an example for everyone on JV to follow.”
