The Olympic Heights Mighty Lions storm the fields once again as another soccer season is underway. The boys and girls soccer teams hope to make it all the way to the district finals this year while improving on last year’s season.

Entering the week of Dec. 14, the boys hold the record of 6-3-3 (five wins, three draws and three losses). Coach Michael Taylor describes the team as inconsistent but full of potential. He hopes to see the team improve on its defensive game, which has conceded too many goals this season for Taylor’s liking. He feels the team`s attitude sometimes affects the level of intensity and drive the boys bring to every game.

However, Coach Taylor praises the boy`s strong attacking game led by team captain senior Josh Messias, the top goal scorer, and senior Harrison Fuster.

“I’m feeling great about the season so far,” commented Fuster. “I feel great about my game, and the team is getting stronger each game. I think we’ll do well when the playoffs come around, and I hope at least to get a district title.”

Taylor knows the boys could make it to the district finals if they buckle down, focus, and play to their potential. Taylor also noted the promising high potential JV team. Consisting of mostly freshmen, the JV team shows lots of talent but still has a long road ahead of them.

The girl’s team holds the impressive record of 14-4-3. Still, Coach Jim Cappello says, “Despite our record we still need to improve.” He believes his team needs to improve on execution, plays, and assignments. Cappello does believe that the girls display excellent chemistry and excel in their leadership.

Cappello is also proud of the way the girls have formed a tight knit family, even with the younger girls on JV. He noted that the JV team has steadily improved and is a great help to varsity. He also believes the girls could make it to the finals if they improve on certain areas to be able to contend with top teams such as Boca and West Boca.

The standout players for the girls’ team are top goal scorer Jamerri Cappello, Michelle Pinto, Torey Zauner, and of course goalkeeper Maddy Miller. Both Zauner and Miller have been named Palm Beach Post Athletes of the Week, and Miller leads the county in shutouts.

“This season has gone quite well,” says Miller, pointing out the team’s record is the best it has been in years. “Our goal is to win districts and go onto regionals and show everyone what we’re about.”

The past few years have been devoted to a rebuilding of the once-proud OH soccer tradition, and it looks as if this season is when all the hard work begins to show dividends. With very capable teams on both the boys and girls sides, OH is well on its way to becoming a dominant force in the county.