From season to season team dynamics can change, grow or even plateau, and this fall season a growth mindset is key for the Eleanor Roosevelt boys soccer team. So far, according to Maxpreps, the Raiders have an overall record of 0-4-1, drawing against Bladensburg, and losing against Parkdale and Highpoint in county play. With immense competition the Raiders hope to turn over a new leaf and see each game as a learning opportunity. As the season progresses the team aims to develop closer friendships and connect as a unit to succeed.
From coaches to players respect and effort on and off the pitch is what really unites and separates a team from average to exemplary. With avid excitement for the new season and new team arrivals pressure can soar. Players have united as an outlet to decompress, as mentioned by senior center back Niles Brown who says as players “we are just out there having fun.” In game this mindset is crucial when switching the ball, effectively playing corner kick plays, and ensuring fluidity in the team’s formation when there is better competition. The team develops their close dynamic through scrimmaging and one on one drills.
Brown believes these exercises and the development of mutual respect between players is how you “exploit everybody’s strengths to win.” These friendships and relationships each player develops with each other aids in not only playing better as a team, but broadening their social circle. Brown has enjoyed “meeting so many different people through soccer.” He hopes “gaining these connections” will “stabilize his future education.” The morals and values that the players follow reflect on coaching strategies and standards.
Roosevelt varsity alum and now assistant coach Karl Kraske wants his players to “ have an obsession with improvement.” Having first hand experience as a player Kraske views soccer as a way for players to develop “physical activity and community.” Soccer as a group sport focuses heavily on teamwork and Kraske believes that the sport “is the ultimate icebreaker,” allowing people from different backgrounds and perspectives to unite. Soccer also tests players mental strength, Kraske wanting his players to ignore their inner insecurities but rather follow his motto ‘“Don’t think, Do!”’ This can be applied to all aspects of soccer on the sidelines from communication to switching the field, and even running endline, all of these decisions, if hesitated, can affect the development of the game. These coaching strategies motivate players to broaden their social circle, listen to different perspectives, and reach new heights.
The previous season the boys team played as a unit to win the regional championship against Parkdale. This year the team hopes to transcend each of their goals and go further into state tournaments. Although at first this might seem like a difficult task at hand with unity, community, and productivity this team is unstoppable.
