(This is an archive story, please refer to byline for author name)
By Carolina Luna
(Photo credit: Eduardo Espinoza)
After a long awaited first semester, the boys soccer team made a striking return to the field. The boys were prepared to work hard for the new season, break records and make memories. They stand at third in district and are on a two week winning streak.
“It felt really good coming off an injury and felt like a fresh start.” Varsity captain Eduardo Espinoza said. “This season is one I will never take for granted.”
The season is always off to a great start but it would not be possible without the soccer managers. They help the coach and team by always setting them up for success. Although they are hardly ever recognized, the managers have always played a key role for the soccer team.
“Our responsibilities include making the game rosters, keeping count and track of the practice and game balls,” Senior Maddy Ballew said, “We help set up before the game and clean up after, keeping track of the pennies and just being there to help with whatever the coaches need.”
The boys soccer team is coached by Head Coach Marcos Zamarron. He was previously the assistant head coach alongside Ernie Holland, who retired in the 2020-2021 season. This is his first ever season as head coach and his hard work is always visibly displayed on and off the field.
Practices can be very long and strenuous for the boys. The team puts in many hours and pushes their own limits every day at practice. Several hours of hard work and memories make the season unique.
“Practice is where we work hard and focus on bettering ourselves and our teamwork.” Left-back junior Alex Vega said. “We run game-like scenarios, improve our chemistry, and work to defeat the opponent with hard work.”
Although it appears that the team works hard, the individuals that make the team experience a lot more than what people see. These individuals are not only star athletes but full-time students. They are constantly having to juggle practices, games, homework and other activities.
“Practice is a challenge sometimes but I try my hardest to keep pushing. We start in the morning by going to our classes, we do our work and when we can, we think about what we are going to do right on the field” Left-wing sophomore Ruben Gutierrez said.
This season has been like no other. The district has encountered several inclement weather days and has cut into the season. The team has had to cancel several practices and games. However, this did not stop them from playing their heart out.
While this season has come to an end, the players are not prepared to say their final goodbyes. For the seniors, these past four years have been what many of the class of 2022 did not prepare for. The seniors on this year's soccer team have made several memories on and off the field making core memories while at BHS.
“As a senior, I am a little sad that it is coming to an end but I am excited for playoffs because I truly believe this group will make our goals into a reality and no matter what we will be successful because of our work ethic.” Espinoza said.
The boys played their last game against tough competitors, Wichita Falls Rider. They suffered a devastating loss to Rider with a score of 2-1. The boys ended their season with an overall 9-8-2 and they ended their district season with 5-4-1.