The boys Lenoir City High School soccer team is ready to kick off what promises to be an exciting and competitive season. With a variety of experienced seniors and ambitious underclassmen, the players are focused on growth, improvement, and achieving success both individually and as a team.
Gael Lara (12) has played soccer all four years of high school, taking on the roles of center midfielder and left wing. He’s looking forward to a season playing tough resilient teams and overcoming new challenges.
“I’m excited for what’s to come. I’ve learned from last season to communicate more on the field and be more physical. My goal is to be a better player and teammate this year,” Lara said.
Lara believes the team’s chemistry will improve over time, especially with the addition of new players. One of his most memorable moments playing throughout his high school years was his freshman year when a fellow teammate, Osmar, scored the winning penalty against Maryville.
Eric Barrientos (12) has been playing soccer his entire life. As a striker and winger, Barrientos is focused on helping the team perform better and improving their overall teamwork.
“Last season, I learned that teamwork and communication are crucial to success. This year, I want to focus on working better as a team,” Barrientos said.
Despite the team’s potential, Barrientos acknowledges that there is still work to be done in building stronger chemistry. One of his favorite memories was participating in the Smoky Mountain Cup during his freshman year, an experience that stands out as one of the highlights of his high school career.
Juan Frutos (9) a goalkeeper, is excited to face the upcoming challenges of his first high school soccer season. Although new to the team, he’s been playing soccer for many years and is eager to prove himself.
“I’m excited to play against Bearden, I’ve heard they’re a tough team and I want to see how competitive they really are, ” Frutos said.
His main goal this season is to concede fewer goals while supporting his teammates both on and off the field. Frutos also emphasized the importance of staying engaged, even if he’s not on the field.
“If I ever get benched, I should never want to lose that game because I should be supporting my team even off the bench when I’m not playing,” Frutos said.
While he feels the team’s chemistry could improve, especially among younger players, he remains hopeful that the team’s bond will strengthen as the season progresses.
Hugo Guzman (10), has been playing soccer since he was five. He is aiming to make the varsity team this season. He’s looking forward to the challenge of playing against rivalry teams.
“I’m excited to play against Loudon. Each season we grow together and learn from each other,” Guzman said.
He acknowledges that the team’s chemistry is still developing, but he’s confident that the players will grow stronger as they get more time together. His goal for this year is to make the varsity team, and he is determined to do what it takes to achieve that.
Jacob Gujament (11) has been playing soccer since eighth grade. He is focused on scoring double-digit goals this season.
“I want to score double-digit goals and help the team win. Last season, I learned that effort and teamwork are everything. We need to put in the effort and work together,” Gujament said.
Like many of his teammates, Gujament believes the team’s chemistry could be better, but he’s optimistic that they will improve as the season moves forward. One of Gujament’s favorite memories from high school soccer has been traveling with the team, an experience that has helped him build lasting friendships and bonds with his teammates.
As the season begins, it’s clear that the team has a diverse group of players with different levels of experience, and they all share a common goal, to advance, build connections, and achieve success. From building better communication on the field to creating stronger bonds off the field and achieving personal milestones, these players are committed to giving their best.
