Hillers should be force in boys soccer
By Matt Collins/Sports Correspondent

Thu Aug 21, 2008, 12:30 AM EDT

HOPKINTON -

   It's like any food recipe for something delicious. There are certain ingredients that are necessary to make that specific meal a delightful success. Without just one of those essential components, that potentially appetizing meal becomes an unpleasant mess.
The same can be said for any athletic team. Talent, experience and character are just a few of the key ingredients that determine how good a team will be. With that in mind, it appears the Hopkinton boys soccer team has the potential for a successful season.

Last year, the young Hillers team finished 7-7-4 against TVL competition and 8-8-4 overall, a record that coach Garret Sawyer would like to improve upon this season.
``We need to improve our consistency,'' stated Sawyer. ``We played very well in some games, but struggled in others.''

Inexperience hampered the Hillers last year. Sawyer started a very young team, which included seven juniors and two freshmen. ``We had only three seniors last year, but they were the tri-captains and brought a lot of spirit and passion to the team,'' stated Sawyer.

One of those seniors was Mike Bernard, a talented forward who was responsible for a large portion of the Hillers' offense. ``Bernard created a lot of offense for us last year that will be difficult to replace,'' said Sawyer. ``He was a very good player.''

Luckily for Sawyer, those juniors and freshmen that dominated the starting lineup are now a year older and have become experienced varsity players. This year, Hopkinton will rely on the talent and leadership of an experienced and deep senior class. The majority of the seniors are third-year varsity players. Sawyer, who is also a history teacher at the school, had 10 of them play for him as sophomores.

This year's captains are seniors Keith Love, Greg Prall and Drew Steedman. However, every veteran player will have leadership responsibilities. ``I think all of the seniors because of their maturity and experience will lead the team this year,'' said Sawyer. ``I am expecting them to come into the season in shape and sharp, and they will jell as a team quickly, so I will be able to focus on tactics and game strategy at an earlier point in the season than usual.''

The Hillers will rely considerably on two veteran players, Jake Huntley and Spenser Hachey, both of whom are preparing to begin their senior seasons. According to Sawyer, Huntely, who was an EMass all-star last year, ``brings a physical presence and an attacking mindset to our midfield. ``Hachey had a good season in goal last year, so he will bring vital experience to that position.''
The team also has several returning sophomores. They are still learning, but players such as Chris Papadellis and Stephen Bianchi could have an impact this season.

Sawyer is excited about the upcoming season. ``We have the ability to compete for a top spot in the league and do well in the state tournament. My goal is to train them well enough to give them a chance to reach their full potential.''

The team began practice yesterday. Hopkinton will conduct its first scrimmage next Thursday against Natick. The Hillers will open the season Sept. 5 by hosting Bellingham.