By Kirk Kern
Coach Tyler Enders has high expectations for this year’s boys soccer team at Somerset Academy Skye Pointe.
“This year’s team is shaping up to making its first real run at contending for a 4A state title,” he said. ’Since moving up to 4A two years ago, we have been building for this moment.”
The Screamin’ Eagles missed out on the playoffs by one game last year while playing many junior varsity players due to injuries. Enders said this trial by fire has really prepared the team for the upcoming season.
The team returns all three varsity captains from last season in Antonio Miranda. Elijah Hartzell and Mathew Chiquillo.
Hartzell will be a four-year varsity starter and will control the middle of the field as a central midfielder.
“His strengths are he is a plug and play player,” Enders said. “I can put him anywhere.”
Miranda, a center back, will be another four-year player, who learned a lot playing with his older brother Ramon.
“When Ramon graduated last season, he took his captain spot and excelled,” Enders said.
Enders called Chiquillo a “truly special player” who will play as goalkeeper this season. He is a two-year varsity starter.
“He joined the team as a defender, but stepped up in the goal last season. By the end of the season, he secured the permanent job.”
Enders is also excited about the prospects of incoming juniors Erik Gomez and Edgar Magana, along with freshman August San.
‘I’ve been really impressed with their work,” he said.
The team has tryout dates Aug. 2, 4 and 5 from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Those interested must have a physical completed June 1 or later and have completed a profile on registermyathlete.com. For questions, email Enders at [email protected].
The season begins on Aug. 14 when the Eagles host Mojave.