On Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2006, RHS soccer teams prepared for yet another day of practice. It was the junior varsity team’s final practice of the season before their last game. Many players, especially the varsity players, seemed anxious as the final stretch of the regular season neared.

The beginning of practice was casual and even relaxing, as teammates and friends conversed and exchanged greetings. For warm-up, we jogged one lap around the perimeter of the soccer field. We then completed a variety of leg and body stretches. So far, everything seemed familiar and natural.

The varsity, instead of practicing normally, sat in a group around the coach for a serious pep talk. Apparently the coach wanted to strategize, reflect, and instruct the team for future big games including their state playoff run.

Assistant coach Chris Hibbs instructed me to practice scrimmages with the JV. I was eager, but slightly hesitant for my lack of soccer experience. I had played on a soccer team once, but that was over a decade ago. The coach divided the JV in two teams: shirts vs. skins, and I participated on the skin team.

At first, I struggled to play my assigned defensive position. I was confused about what zone to protect and guard. After some time however, I became accustomed to my role. Other teammates such as juniors Tim Dix and David Smeiles also, gave me helpful instructions regarding my position, informing me of where I was supposed to guard. I felt more at ease as I intercepted and passed the ball to people. I even switched positions to offense and experienced the pressure of trying to get the ball and score a goal.

After this, head coach Chris Vanderneut and the Varsity team went to practice shooting drills. Because it was the JV’s last practice, the coaches granted us the option of choosing a fun soccer activity, and we picked World Cup. In this game we paired up representing a specific country. Our objective was to score a goal as fast and as soon as we could with multiple balls in play.

For me this was completely chaotic. At first, I watched from the sidelines, punting back renegade balls soaring out of bound, but after several minutes I felt more confident and participated. I was impressed with the execution of the JV players while scoring goals. It was fun, fast paced action.

At the end of the practice the guys circled up and complemented each other about personal successes during the season. Overall, I was impressed with the team unity and cooperation.