By: Isabella DiCaro

Yesterday, while sitting on the bleachers at the Northwest Christian soccer field, I asked myself: “why am I sitting here in 45 degree weather with sheets of rain pouring down faster by the minute, all to watch JV boys soccer game?” I’m not going to lie and say that the fact that the “team mascot” is an adorable puppy named Thomas Edison didn’t at all factor into my decision. But, in all seriousness, I was sitting there in those stands on a Thursday night in the cold and rain because I truly enjoyed watching the game. This is a high honor, I assure you, coming from me, who really only attends the obligatory football game once a year then shuns all other sporting events. What makes these JV soccer games so enjoyable is the fact that they play with heart. Each time they step out onto the field they know that winning is more or less a gift rather than something to expect. So instead of their motivation lying in winning, it lies in the love of the game. After watching the JV games throughout the season, I can see that playing under this mindset has led to much improvement. The most change I’ve seen has been in their collective confidence with the ball and on the field. Without a doubt, I can say that juniors Trevor Kerber and Ed Pivonka have improved the most in this regard. In this most recent game against Northwest Christian both Ed and Trevor have shown their ability to be strong defensive leaders on the field.

Another testament to the heart of the JV soccer team can be found in freshman Zach Brown and Sophomore Sam DiCaro. They both have something called Osgood-Schlatter disease, which causes intense pain in the knees. Despite this pain both Zach and Sam play every game to the fullest and always have a great time doing so. When was the last time you’ve seen athletes laugh or sing (yes I did say sing) in the middle is a game? You haven’t until you’ve watched a JV boys soccer match. While they may not look like much, nor hold the coveted “varsity” title; Tempe Prep these are you legends.