Coach proud of soccer players’ consistent effort during season

The setting sun reflected off the red and white sweat-soaked jerseys as the Quantico Middle/High School varsity soccer team shook hands with their opponents May 22, 2013 at Smith Lake Park in Stafford. They had just finished the last game of the 2012-2013 season.

The Quantico Warriors, ranging from the eighth grade to the 12th, started the 80-minute game against the Stafford Area Soccer Association with high spirits and a confident stride.

“Our kids have had great sportsmanship all year,” said Robert Hume, soccer coach.

Despite the advantage of fresh players that SASA relied on throughout the first half, the Warriors held them off with their in-your-face defense that matched their opponents, ushering both teams into halftime with a 0-0 score.

“Defense is about being tough,” said Hume. “I’ve got some tough kids. My guys play great defense.”

With a word of encouragement and some motivational cheers, the Warriors swarmed the field ready for the second half. Forty minutes later, the teams were shaking hands, agreeing they had played a good game. The Warriors had lost 2-0 but they weren’t going out with their heads down.

“There’s nothing to hang your heads about,” said Hume. “You went out there and played your butts off. That’s probably the best defensive game we’ve played all year.”

The Warriors finished the year with a record of seven wins, three losses and one tied game.

“I’m really proud of how the kids played,” said Hume. “The kids left their hearts on the field every game and that makes it a pleasure to coach the kids of Quantico.”

“The season was great,” said Jose, captain. “Just being able to play with all my brothers before I graduate... It was a great experience.”

Awards given to the players after Wednesday night’s game were: Jean_Baptiste Durville, defensive player of the year; Howard Ommundsen, Offensive player of the year; Jose Erazo, coach’s award, which is given by the coach to a player who demonstrates leadership and mentors other players.