NHS Boys Soccer Program Looking To Make Big Strides

By Colin Murphy

Opening up preseason practice the week of August 15 with a series of timed sprinting sets and lengthy scrimmages, the Northeast High School boys soccer program is in building mode.

“I think we’re going to be a lot better this year than last,” says Michael Knopp, a senior forward who also plays for the Eagles’ baseball team. “We have a better attitude this year. Everyone is much more involved and focused.”

Knopp is one of several veterans on the Eagles’ soccer team, which looks to improve on last year’s win total of three. While a focused approach in the preseason is a good start, the Northeast boys realize it is going to be a hefty challenge competing in a county loaded with strong soccer programs. Through the first week of practice, however, the outlook is nonetheless a positive one, a sentiment shared between the team’s seniors.

“We’re eager to play, and as seniors we have to push the younger guys, but in a way that makes them want to keep playing,” explained senior Josue Campos following a brief break from scrimmages during practice on August 16. “We know we don’t have the numbers [of players trying out] as some of the other schools in the area, so it’s a tough job, but we’re definitely up for it.”

To make up for the lack of depth in the player pool, Head Coach Sam Tanner has recruited athletes from other sports, pitching soccer as a great way to stay in shape and keep a competitive edge during what would otherwise be just an off season. Joe Rivera, a senior at Northeast and member of the Varsity baseball team, joins the soccer team this season despite never playing soccer prior to this summer.

“It’s something different, but it seems like everyone is working hard, so it’s good competition for me,” said Rivera during the August 16 practice.

As is the case in most sports for Northeast athletes, the match-up against Chesapeake is circled on the calendar, and this year the Northeast boys won’t have to wait long to get a crack at their nearby rivals; the Eagles will host the Cougars on September 13.

“Definitely the Chesapeake game,” said senior defender Kelly Kean. “They’re always a tough match-up, but as always we’re looking forward to playing them.”