The varsity boys soccer team currently has an overall record of 16-3-3 and a District record of 9-2-2, as of March 7. If the team can maintain a good record, it will have a shot at the District Championship and qualify for the playoffs. The team’s goal is to make it to State which hasn’t been done since 1982.

“Our team is getting better through lineup changes by coach [James] Baker, and each player finding their place in the style of play we have in this program,” sophomore Eddie Scott said.

The team considers each other family. They have great chemistry which helps them to work together and play as a team. The dynamic of off-field friendships really benefits the team’s communication and bonds.

“This team has special talent, and they have bought in to what we have been trying to accomplish as a program from the very start of the season,” Baker said. “They are a very close group, like a family, with all the bickering and banter and love that comes with it.”

When the Chaps won the Temple Tournament, they felt as though that was one of their most memorable events.

“The most exciting thing that has happened this season was when we got into a big hole against a really good team and managed to claw back into the game and get a positive result,” Baker said. “Seeing that ball hit the back of the net was a great moment.”

The team’s toughest opponent is Lake Travis, who they played at home March 1, and it was a battle for all 90 minutes. The game was close, and Westlake managed to get away with the win 1-0.

“We prepare for that game like we do every game; the only difference is that we have to be aware of the emotions and intensity that go along with rivalry games,” Baker said. “The boys love playing them, and I love coaching them. It’s just making sure we don’t get distracted by the event of it all.”

“The game against LT was the most fun game I have ever played,” sophomore Ty Jarrett said. “All of the energy and excitement of the people in the stands fed into the players on the field and added intensity to the game.”

The team is on a five-game winning streak, and the players have their eyes on the prize. Their last three opponents of the regular season include Anderson, Bowie and Westwood. The next home game is at 7:45 p.m. March 15 against Bowie.