During the 2016-2017 season, boys’ varsity soccer ended with a 3-0 conference record and 6-1-2 record overall.
Try-outs held the week of Oct. 30 foreshadow what’s to come in the 2017-2018 season.
These try-outs serve mainly as training as most of the players have just finished their club seasons. Playing during the off-season is important because it helps to keep players in shape and assure that they’re improving between Carlmont seasons.
“I’ve played a whole season of club soccer in addition to working out to get ready physically,” said Logan Snow, a junior.
Most of the drills covered so far have been based on conditioning, quick thinking, and accuracy, but as the week goes on players will be able to showcase other skills as well.
“So far we’ve done mostly running drills, but we will soon go to more technical and tactical drills,” said sophomore Patrik Dufault-Geleziunas.
According to Ziad Kedkad, a junior, one of the main goals of the coaches is to make “young men who will do good in the community” in addition to well-rounded soccer players.
Kedkad also believes soccer is largely a mental game and that having a somewhat extensive try-out process helps players adjust to new teammates and coaches.
“A lot of this game needs quick thinking and intelligence. Once you understand the game, start to condition, and work on your skills, the game looks and feels beautiful,” said Kedkad.
JV ended last season with an overall record of 0-2-3 and a 0-1-1 conference record, but with 108 boys trying out, both teams are projected to have good seasons.
“With all the players that came out I really think both teams will do decently well this year,” said Dufault-Geleziunas.
Although injuries and illnesses are a concern among both the athletes and the coaches, maintaining a certain GPA is a requirement for trying out and staying on the team. JV players must maintain a 2.0 GPA, while Varsity players must maintain a 3.0 GPA.
Official practices for both teams begin the week of Nov. 4. Until then, players will work hard to continue training and practicing.
“I’m actually really excited, we have a lot of talented players, especially the juniors and seniors. It’s going to be a great season,” said Snow.
Both JV’s and Varsity’s first games will take place on Nov. 13 against Mills High School.
Photos in the gallery are from the 2016-2017 season.
