Oxford varsity boys soccer Coach John Thaler is the first to admit that this season may be a tough one to pull off.
‘After winning league and districts last year, which was quite an accomplishment, it’s going to be tough to match those,? he said.
This year’s competition could be a tough one to overcome.
Although he considers every team in the Flint Metro League rough to compete with, Thaler said teams like Fenton, Linden and Lapeer East have improved tremendously from last year.
‘They’re always up there and it’s a battle between the four of us,? he said.
On the Wildcat’s roster of 19 are six returning seniors; captain Andrew Klimbal, captain Gethin Angell, Matt Patria, captain Dan Arft, Alex Piliafas and captain David Hurrish.
Thaler said his captains are ‘responsible good team leaders, motivators and have a lot of knowledge of the game.?
‘They’re solid guys all around,? he said.
The coach is looking for his returning seniors to be good role models, using their ‘upbeat attitudes? to guide their younger teammates.
Thaler said returning junior Steven Walker is going to be ‘pretty solid,? while he looks to returning junior Doug Kiracofe to lead the team in scoring.
‘He had 11 goals last year, so hopefully he can meet that or exceed it,? he said.
The team’s biggest goal this year, according to the coach, is to play each game competitively, making sure each player is in the game mentally and physically.
‘Our goal is plain and simple, and that’s to win as many games as possible,? Thaler said.
‘It’s going to be tough, but hopefully all the fans will come back out and support us,? the coach added. ‘We’re happy to be playing again.?
Unfortunately, the Wildcats lost their first game against Waterford Kettering last Wednesday 0-2.
On a brighter note, Oxford won the 5th Annual Oxford Tourney last Saturday, beating Goodrich 3-2 in the first game, Brandon 2-1 in the second and tieing 1-1 with Farmington Hills Harrison in the third game.
Against Goodrich, goals were made by Klimbal and Angell, while Walker and Kiracofe contributed to the win against Brandon.
Walker also made the lone goal in game three against Farmington Hills.
On Tuesday, the boys lost to Auburn Hills Avondale 7-2 Oxford’s overall record now stands 2-2-1. The team will travel to Farmington tonight for a 7 p.m. game.