Kickin’ It

Soccer practice begins practice, players get ready for opening games of season

Kickin+It

Nalani Nuylan, News Editor

Varsity boys’ soccer kicks off their season at the alumni scrimmage Dec. 29.

“The alumni scrimmage is a chance for anyone who was part of the soccer team at one point of their life to come back and reunite as one big family,” varsity player Arturo Benitez said. “Those who play with us will never be forgotten and will always be a part of the soccer family.”

Varsity girls’ soccer will open their season against Vista Ridge by scrimmaging at Gupton Stadium Dec. 30.

“I’m excited to play Vista because I know a lot of girls on their team,” varsity player Abigail Forster said. “It’s always fun to play against friends, but hopefully we can give them a fight and pull out a win.”

Both teams face off in the next scrimmage Jan. 3. The boys will battle Vista Ridge, while the girls compete with Stony Point.

“In past years, Rouse has always dominated Stony Point,” Forester said. “Hopefully, we will beat them again.”

The boys will also play longtime rival, Leander High School, Jan. 6 for their first district game.

“I’m really excited about it,” varsity player Travis Long said. “Now is the time for seniors to step up and be the leaders in that game. We have played Leander every year, but this is the year we should destroy them.”

The girl’s first district match is against Eastview at home, Jan. 10.

“I’m excited for the new competition from our move down to 5A,” Forester said. “I think our team has the potential to get pretty far this year.”

Of course, both teams are aiming to go to playoffs.

“I am excited about the group of guys that have committed to getting back to winning and fighting for a playoff spot,” boys coach Darrell Knight said. “The players in the athletics period have been working extremely hard and have been focused on getting better every day.”