Pine Creek’s fierce athletic reputation is one that requires defense from all areas of sport. From the coaching, to the players, to the dedication, every piece of the puzzle must fit in order to have a successful season and team. An exceptional example of this commitment is the Pine Creek Boys soccer team.

A Successful Season

At around the halfway point of the season, the Eagles are currently sitting in the number one spot in the Southern Colorado rankings. Perhaps, more impressive Pine Creek leads the 5A standings of schools in similar size. The only losses the team have endured were those to Cherry Creek and Denver East, two schools with over 2,500 students.  Coach Benjamin Corley, said that the team has a very deep focus on family, “the idea of our program [is for it to be] a place for everyone to feel like they belong and contribute.”

Players of the team also take pride over the connection and chemistry on the team.

Wyatt VanHorn (12), a Midfielder on the team, said “everyone’s playing well together, and chemistry’s flowing, and everyone’s getting along.”

Perhaps a large contributor to this chemistry are the new sports training classes. Corley has noticed “the whole [team] buying into the value of weight training and getting stronger physically, which translates to more confidence on the field.” At this point in the season, a successful season seems likely and the team appears to be stronger than ever.

Setbacks

While the team has had an amazing season, like any other season, it is not without its obstacles. Many key players have experienced injuries that have that put them out for weeks or longer. From wrist and ankle fractures, to ACL issues the team has a large portion of its power out of action.

In addition to these losses some of the players experience problems with the relationship with club soccer and high school season.

“During the season my confidence tends to go down,” Calvin Stewart (12), a midfielder said, “But it is good to have a team that helps push you back up, and I think I have gotten better, especially with working with my teammates.”

Looking Forward

As the team continues through the regular season and into the playoffs, they will focus on the family aspect and filling the holes left by the injured.

Corley particularly wants the team to focus on “continuing to build a cohesion of how we play.” Similarly, Jackson Kiefner (12), a forward, said that his focus for the rest of the season would be to focus on “just kind of working, [and] play[ing] well.”

Regardless, players are optimistic about their chances for the remainder of the regular season.

Stewart said “If we can hold our own against [the other teams], then I think we’ll be able to do just fine against the league games.”

The Eagles are entering post-season play with their first contest against Arvada West on October 29 at 7pm at the D20 North (Pine Creek) Stadium.