By Lauren Ahern and Nayeli Sanchez
The boys’ soccer team started off the 2016-17 season with a loss in the Panther Invitational, but they refused to let this loss stop them from trying to repeat their status as Arizona State Champions last year. Despite a disappointing record of 1-4 (as Dec. 16), the team is tenacious about having a winning season.
Alexis Urtuzastetegui, a senior, has been a part of the Warrior soccer team since his freshman year, and this year, as a center-mid, is also the team captain.
“This year, our goal is to make it to State again, but more realistically we’re hoping to make it to the playoffs,” said Urtuzastetgui.
He added that he believes that the strengths within the team is their strong communication skills, and that communication will, indeed, be an asset that will career the team to great heights.
Coach Francisco Urtuzastetgui agrees with his son—“Everybody is like family, and with that positive attitude, the team will be successful whatever their record ends up being.”
The coach also added that in order for the team to be truly successful this season, team members need to put in 110% effort—not just 100%. The boys also need to focus more and concentrate on their positive qualities.
He added, “We [the team and I] have to take into consideration that it’s a new team—last year was different and exceptional. Every team is a little different, and no two teams are ever quite the same.”
Several of the players need to work on their techniques, Urtuzastegui said. There are also some tactics that need to be developed. Some players are not as experienced and need more time on the field.
Urtuzastetgui concluded with, “I am very proud of the players for the effort they’re putting in, even though we haven’t reached our objectives yet. A season is about development and getting better all of the time.” He paused and added, “I have trust in faith in them.”
The team recently played Desert View on December 15; unfortunately, our Warriors lost.