The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The Outlaws boys soccer squad will return only four varsity players to their squad this year, but will add 17 young, enthusiastic players to the roster. Coaches are excited about the energy and enthusiasm these new players will bring to the field.

Two juniors, Connor Martin and Simon Rhett, as well as sophomores Gavin Christian and Richard Huffman are the four players who return with varsity experience.

Martin is a versatile player and one of the strongest players on the field and leads by example. Rhett is a solid defender, an intelligent player, and is expected to be a great mentor for the younger players. Christian is also a versatile player with a strong work ethic, and shows promise as a striker/forward. Huffman (midfield) is speedy and athletic and always brings a positive attitude to the field.

The new players that will round out the 2019 roster include freshmen Aidan Ekert (midfield), Bela Chladek (midfield), Brody Duey (forward), Dominic Martinez (midfield/defense), Gus Patton (midfield), Hayden Kunz (midfield), Justin Blake (defense), Senas Ortega (defense/goalie), Tate Kaczmarek (forward), sophomores AJ Scholl (goalie), Brady Williams (midfield/forward), Charles Irlam (midfield), Noah Pittman (defense), and Sean Alvarez (defense), juniors Connor Linn and Nathaniel Alvarez (defense), and senior Ethan Eckert (midfield).

Coach Jeff Husmann told The Nugget that Ethan Ekert, Nathaniel and Sean Alvarez, and Connor Linn are standouts among the new players.

Eckert is the lone senior on the team, and although Ethan is new to Sisters, he certainty is no stranger to the game. Husmann stated that he brings a calm demeanor, a high soccer IQ, and a natural leadership ability that will serve the team well.

Brothers Nathaniel and Sean Alvarez will be relied upon for their skill, experience, and know-how on the pitch. Linn will positively contribute as he brings fitness and an incredible work ethic to the team.

Husmann also noted that several of the freshmen will be key contributors to the Outlaws squad.

Duey is both coachable and versatile, and is a very hard worker; Kaczmarek is a technically skilled player and always works to improve, and Aidan Eckert is a skilled player and soccer-savvy.

As Husmann looks ahead to the upcoming season he said, “We hope to develop a strong and positive reputation in what certainly is a tough division. With only four returning varsity players the team will be relying on the younger members to improve with each practice and game as they step into their respective roles.

“Our goals begin with all players subscribing to the mantra of ‘No White Flags.’ Though we certainly aim to win games, success this year will be more about developing and maintaining an attitude and work ethic that asks players to push themselves the entire match,” said Husmann.