As the Wakefield men’s soccer team navigates the first half of conference play, with an overall record of 9-7-3, unity and collaboration become more crucial than ever. After losing 12 dedicated players, it seems as though they are starting completely from scratch. However, the boys have put in effort towards building strong connections both on and off the field. Although the team has had their ups and downs this season, the one thing that has stayed consistent is their support of each other. 

After winning the 2024 State championship, Junior Gabriel Riehle comes back strong as one of this year’s team captains. Riehle takes pride in stepping up and setting an example for his team, as well as creating lasting bonds with his fellow players.

“I think the relationship we have off the field helps us on the field [because] we can highlight [each other’s] strengths and cover [each other’s] weaknesses,” Riehle said.

Soccer is a sport where one player’s actions affect all; it’s a game of trust. It’s necessary to rely on one another when it comes to coverage, structure and communication. Head Coach Tony Calabria, who is now entering his 30th year as a coach, understands the importance of adjusting to better the team. 

“I am learning that we have to adapt and change a little bit more than I [thought we] would,” Calabria said.“Sometimes after a tough loss, we’re frustrated. We want to get better, and that’s perfect.” 

On Sept. 18, the team went home with their heads high after an exhilarating game against Enloe High School. With an impressive goal scored by junior Julien Hafner, and a shutout by the team’s senior goalkeeper, Carter Rhoad, the Wolverines won by a score of 1-0. Defender Jackson Saunders considers this day to be one of his favorite memories from this year’s season.

“[I really enjoyed] riding back on the bus after the Enloe game,” Saunders said. “It was a good win. [We] played pretty well and everyone had a good time.”

As the season continues, the team is focused on growing stronger together and finishing off the year with consistency and confidence. Calabria has seen this firsthand, as well as the assistant coach, Luke Casey, despite primarily coaching the junior varsity team. The players’ shared commitment to each other has kept their morale high despite the obstacles they have faced.

“I’ve never really seen them go after one another,” Casey said. ‘As far as the relationship goes, they are very good teammates. They are very much [one] unit.”