With just three games remaining, boys’ soccer (9-5-4, 5-2-4) is fighting for a playoff berth. They currently sit in second place in district 26-6A, tied with New Braunfels (9-6-3, 6-3-2) and behind just powerhouse Schertz Clemens (17-1-1, 10-0-1). The team has an opportunity to make the playoffs, but they can’t drop a game, or else they might lose their chance. 

Coach Eric Nichols has worked tirelessly to prepare these athletes for the season. Nichols is proud of his players, who “competed in every game.” “We had a group of guys that have stepped up in big games,” Nichols said. “We don’t have that one guy that teams have to watch out for. They have to watch out for each of our players.” 

Their work ethic proves that his players don’t hold anything back. 

“I count on everyone on my team the most,” senior Brett Dildy said. “We all work together to achieve the same goal.” 

On the field, the team not only has captains, but also great leaders. 

“Our captains are senior Colton Amaya, Dane Morris and Tyler Vanfosson,” Nichols said. “[But] they are not our only leaders. We have a solid senior class that [has] taken on their own responsibilities to push this team and their teammates to set up their game.”

For many, soccer is not just a sport. It’s an escape from issues life gives us. 

“I think soccer appeals to both guys and girls because when you play the game, all of life’s problems go away,” Dildy said. “You’re able to go out and enjoy yourself. It’s a way for everyone to come together.”

Being an athlete isn’t easy. It takes discipline. You have to “balance academics, home life, and soccer”. Which is “all time management.”

“Being able to allocate time for each and preparing ahead of time allows for success.” Dildy said.

No one on the team is committed to play at the next level yet, though that will change soon. But right now, the focus is all on this season, and on playing deep into April.