The boys’ soccer team is off to a superior start with a record of 5-0. This is Coach Scott Jantzi’s 21st year coaching soccer. For the record, Aug. 29 marked his 200th career win. Coach Jantzi strives to coach his team to the best of their abilities and to reach their full potential. Each year, the team continues to improve its performance.
“[My expectations for the team this year are] to go out and battle every single night,” Jantzi said.
This year’s team comprises eight seniors who demonstrate a high level of dedication to help lead the team to success. One of the team’s captains, senior Niko Fernandez, encourages his teammates on and off the field.
“[The other captains and I are] trying to push them to become the best versions of themselves,” Fernandez said.
Key components in soccer come in many different ways, such as dedication, dependability, and innovation.
“[While on the field, as a group] teamwork and chemistry… come a long way,” senior Elias Vela-Perez said.
As the years pass by, you grow with the game. Physical and mental strengths are crucial when performing in soccer.
“My strengths are my technical ability, speed of play, and my IQ,” Junior Victor Galvan said.
Alongside strengths, weaknesses can become visible through hard times. Pushing players to become better is a key component because it pushes the team to contribute to success.
“[My weaknesses are] controlling the ball and my touches,” sophomore Gianni Toribio-Triana said.
With a combination of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, conflicts can arise on the field.
“[I handle conflicts by trying to] de-escalate the problem and make them calm down,” senior Alex Toribio-Triana said.
When it comes to soccer, some players play all year-round, and others take time to rest.
“I feel like there’s no off-season when you’re playing soccer,” Galvan said.
Sports take a lot of commitment and practice; not everyone has the time or commitment to do sports. The time spent on soccer helps players develop the understanding they need to have to compete at a high level.
“You need to have an understanding of the game; you can’t just be an athlete,” sophomore Leighton Cook said.