The boys' club soccer team played their first game of the season against Duke University on September 10th in hot and uncomfortable weather. Although they had only a few weeks to practice after a long summer break, they played well together and showed great teamwork, even though they did not win. Frustrated by their loss, players Miguel Gonzales and Obi Ndukwe spent hours practicing late at night to improve their skills and tricks in hopes of impressing their coaches at the next game against Elon University.

1. Kick-Off
to the
Soccer
Season
The boys’ club soccer team kicked off its season with their first
game against Duke on Saturday, September 10th at 11 a.m. They
started practicing only a few short weeks ago, which, as many play-
ers have complained, was not enough time for them to get back into
the swing of things after a long summer break. Speaking of summer,
the weather is still brutally hot down here in North Carolina, which
does not create an ideal setting for a soccer game. Even sitting in the
stands watching the game brought immense heat upon the viewers
that was very uncomfortable and tough to sit through. However, the
boys made the heat worth it as they played a great game. Even with
the lack of practice, they were able to bring the ball to the apposing
net with ease and fluidity. They showed great teamwork and dedica-
tion throughout the entirety of the game. They didn’t end up victo-
rious, but the rest of the season is looking strong for these boys. We
went behind the scenes of the action and joined Miguel Gonzales
and Obi Ndukwe as they take time out of studying to do some late
night practicing. Frustrated with their loss against Duke at home and
their tie against North Carolina State and determined to win their
next game against Elon University, they spent hours practicing in the
dark running drills and improving their shooting. They spoke about
wanting to impress their coaches and fellow teammates with new
tricks and improved plays. From what was seen from just this one
practice with these players ad their home game against Duke Uni-
versity, the team has some work to do but it will without a doubt be a
great season for them. Good luck boys, go HPU!
The ball Miguel and Obi used to practice with
at their late night private practice
The boys’ club soccer team playing their home opener against duke on Saturday, September 10th
Miguel practicing one of his new tricks where he jumps
up and kicks the ball in midair into the net
Miguel getting ready to head-butt a ball being
kicked over his head
The two boys, Miguel and Obi, kicking the ball to one another in a
passing drill
Miguel practicing his corner kicks
Obi ending the practice with one last
kick into the net