While the Arlington boys soccer team returns a number of starters, coach Mike Gudgeon describes them like a whole new team.
After struggling out of the gate last season, the kids really came together and realized what they were capable of. Thats when they stated winning games, he said.
Despite losing leading scorer John Tilton to the Air Force Academy, Gudgeon counts about a half-dozen players who could have a big impact and continue the momentum of last years district-qualifying season.
First and foremost, Gudgeon is looking to senior co-captains Zach Fullwiler and Keith Bayer to lead the team. Bayer returns from last seasons 2-2 postseason run to defend the goal for Arlington, while Gudgeon describes Fullwilers inspirational qualities as one of his strongest assets.
One of his greatest strengths is the team really follows him, so when he gets them up for a game, the kids really respond to him, Gudgeon said.
In addition to Bayer, Arlington will field experienced defenders in senior Mike Huston and junior Robert ODay the latter of whom earned all-conference notice for his sophomore season. Gudgeon is counting on the defensive trio to make their presence felt this season.
They really keep us from getting behind in games, he said, adding of ODay, He plays probably two feet taller than he really is. Hes a shorter guy, and seems to take on the 6-foot plus guys without a problem.
As another veteran player, returning midfielder Andy Henderson figures to play an important role in the Eagles 2008 season.
After a postseason that saw the Eagles defeat Squalicum and Lynnwood teams they were eventually knocked out by state-qualifying squads from Shorecrest and Ferndale Gudgeon describes the turnout for this seasons tryouts and energetic and talented. One guy characterizing this attitude has been sophomore Brett Strong, the coach added.
We have some exciting younger players coming on. Brett Strong came to tryouts with a real hunger to make varsity and really has impressed me thus far, Gudgeon said. The fact that he has yet to identify his next leading scorer is an exciting prospect.
Theres so much possibility with this group of kids, he said. Every day at practice Im impressed by different guys and their ability to score.