Winter sports came to an end with spring approaching, so spring athletes are days away from tryouts. The LSHS boys soccer team is hyped up for the upcoming year.
Both soccer teams, JV and Varsity, have been working hard to prep for tryouts during their off-season time. Whether playing for a club, juggling the ball at home, or hitting the gym, they are prepared both physically and mentally for the new season.
Several teammates joined together during the offseason and participated in the ¨Mistletoe Madness¨ indoor soccer tournament last December, winning the tournament. This gave the team hope for another good season this year.
Open field has also been available since January on Tuesdays and Thursdays at LSHS and Cavelero Mid High for soccer players to exercise their skills and practice with their teammates before tryouts start.
“It warms me up with some of the new guys and gets me in better condition,” senior Parks Mickels said.
For athletes, consistently practicing their skills for their sport is crucial for the season. Being adaptable and open to feedback from coaches and teammates allows athletes to improve their techniques and adjust to different game scenarios. Players are focusing on their fitness, touch on the ball, strength and conditioning, and most importantly their communication throughout the game.
“I’d say teammate communication helps us win most of our games, which makes it really important for a team sport. I think if we got together more and hung outside of soccer, it would really help on the field,” senior Shad Schmitt said.
This spring will be the seniors’ last high school soccer season for many of the players who have been on the team previously.
They have dedicated themselves to the sport, and it will definitely be a bittersweet time during their last year of high school ball before the seniors move on to a new chapter in their lives.
With a close season last year, high hopes are forming amongst players for winning state this year.
“I’m looking forward to Senior Night and winning Wesco,” said Schmitt.
Players are eager to show their determination in the game and set the stage for another year of achievement and success.
“Looking forward to winning it all,” senior Adan Coto said.