Depth issues

PREVIEW: VARSITY BOYS’ SOCCER

Head Coach: Don White, fifth year

JV Coach: Jim Giroux, first year

Returning players: Seniors Dakota Bush (goalie), Ryan Chute (sweeper); Juniors Mike Mageles (center/mid), Tyler LaPlante (forward), Brody Stofflet (center/mid).

Top newcomers: Seniors Donnie Kellough (halfback), Mustafa Haffsan (halfback), Salahh Khallaf (backer); Juniors Tyler Harnden (stopper), Pat Irish.

Players to watch: Goalie Dakota Bush, “excellent at covering the entire net,” Coach White said. Ryan Chute, who excels at controlling the ball in front of the net and manages to get good defensive position. Brody Stofflet, “controls the midfield very well and is able to find open teammates to pass to,” Coach White noted. Mike Mageles, “good at creating scoring chances for his teammates and possesses good foot skills,” Coach White said.

Strengths: Defense, overall speed and excellent returning goalkeeper.

Weaknesses: Young team, lacking varsity experience, low numbers (just 21 players out for two squads).

Based on what you have seen so far, what do you find as encouraging? Players have shown a “great attitude” and continue to work hard during practices and games. “They team is really working together as a team,” Coach White said. “They are possessing the ball very well.”

Keys to season: Continue to work on possessing the ball; creating scoring chances for teammates; moving without the ball.

Goals for season: Be competitive in every game; learning to possess the ball better on the opponent’s half of the field; defend as a team.

Season opener: The Lakers open the season at Freeport this Friday, Sept. 2 at 4 p.m. The Lakers host Falmouth Tuesday at 4 p.m.