Connor Smith
Staff Writer
A #5peat is in the making. For the fifth year in a row, the boys’ soccer team has their eyes on taking home another district medal.
The season started off strong with a journey to England to get a taste of the true culture of soccer. From there, the team won their first game against Plumstead Christian, and many more since then. The most significant victory came with two goals scored by junior forward, Alex Lotier, in the rematch of last year’s district finals against Faith Christian. When asked about the game, Lotier responded, “Every time I step onto the field I give 110 percent and do whatever I can to help the team get a win. Fortunately I was able to put two goals in the back of the net with the help of my teammates, and win the game.”
The team has high standards this year for their season, but even more importantly, for their postseason. Senior legend Ben Muzekari had some words to say remarking this potential journey, “It may seem like we are getting ahead of ourselves, but we’re not.” He went on to say, “We’re still early in the season and we are taking one game at a time. Each game I see improvement in the team, so with each game, my aspirations for this year increase.”
The fans this year have been phenomenal, coming out to as many games as possible and being that 12th man presence that carries champions. One particularly dedicated fan, senior Patrick Gimpel claimed, “This is the funnest team in the district to watch. They do things that no other team can. Hands down, best team in the BAL.”
Matt Steele, a strong influence and center back on the team, remarked, “When it comes down to it, New Hope just has superior talent, superior focus, superior drive, and superior coaching. No other team has this kind of winning mentality, and that extra class will lead us to states.”
Steele is right, having the winning mentality is what is going to allow this team to fight through the playoffs and continue to advance to states. Every time this team steps on to the field, the #5peat is always on their mind.
