Among the numerous sports offered at school, varsity soccer is one that carries a legacy. Having made it to State finals in 2007, each year the Wolves get closer and closer to going back and taking a championship home.
According to junior player Christian Anderson, there is cohesion and brotherhood among the team. He thinks that is what makes their success possible.
“Soccer players stick together,” Anderson said. “We are a team off the field, too.”
On and off the field, they have each other’s backs. That is what creates the trust and bond that is necessary within the game. Senior goalie Carson Leisenfelt credits the success to his teammates, knowing that only when they work together as a team, can they achieve their goal of moving on in District, and ultimately, making State.
“Our big goal is to make playoffs,” Leisenfelt said. “Then, we will worry about State.”
West’s main opponents are the other two district schools, Plano Senior and Plano East. This year, they hope to redeem themselves from last year’s losses.
“This year, we are probably going to wreck them,” junior Alec Neal said.
Only in their second tournament, the Wolves are 3-2, and moving forward.
“I have big expectations for our team this year,” Neal said. “I think we have the skills to make it to playoffs.”
Sophomore Lance Fricke loves soccer not only for the games, but for the health benefits, and also for the social status it puts him in when he attends West next year.
“It is a great sport for conditioning and a letterman never hurt anyone,” Fricke said.
The season officially kicks off Feb. 3, with a District game against the Lewisville team. Hoping for a big appearance of fans, the Wolves are excited to show everyone what they are capable of, and to start off the season on the right foot. Soccer has become part of the boys’ life. They practice every morning from 7-9. Such dedication is bound to produce results. Rain or shine, cold or hot, Coaches Jimmy Dowell and Mike Walta have their boys out on the field, working. The coaches know however, that without the boys’ love of the sport, success is not possible.
“Soccer is a passionate sport,” Anderson said. “It always keeps you on the edge of your seat.”
