The Masconomet boys’ soccer team has been off to a tremendous start to begin the season, highlighted by teamwork, dedication, and belief every step of the way.
Head coach Jared Scarpaci said that the team’s success hasn’t come easy, but through everyone stepping up when needed.
“[Seniors] Gabe Fantin and Enzo Nteta have definitely stepped up for us in big ways. [Senior] Quinn Lodewick has done a great job, and then a new kid at our school, [senior] Max Cabrera, has been someone who’s really stepped up for us,” said Scarpaci. “I think they have all been exciting players to watch.”
Scarpaci says the team has high hopes for the rest of the season and is looking to accomplish their goals.
“We still have an opportunity to win the conference, to win the league. We have a big week coming up that will help determine that. At this point, we want to go 16-2 in the regular season and make noise in the state tournament. I think those are all absolutely still on the table,” said Scarpaci.
This year’s team stands out not because of one star player, but because everyone can contribute in many different ways.
“This year’s team is pretty unique in that we don’t have a superstar, but we have a lot of super players,” said Scarpaci. “We’ve been able to capitalize on that and be threatening in a lot of different areas rather than just focus on one person. We have a lot of people who can do a lot of different things well and step up, which is great.”
Senior captain John Green says that the group’s bond has been key to their success.
“I think we’ve come together by the way we show up every day, ready to work and get better,” said Green. “We’ve faced some tough teams in the league, but have been able to stay together and focus on our goals. A lot of guys on this team have been playing together since elementary school, and we all know that this year is our last run. We’ve had great chemistry and have had a lot of fun on and off the field.”
Winning the NEC title is the team’s biggest goal after losing the title to a great Beverly Panthers squad last season. Green said that’s been their focus since day one.
“One of our main goals as a team this year is to win the NEC,” said Green. “Throughout the years of Masco soccer, winning the league has been the standard of our program, but last year, we didn’t get it done. Our mindset since day one this year is chasing the league title.”
Enzo Nteta has been one of the top players, making a big impact on the field for the Chieftains.
“I think it really comes down to the preparation we put in,” said Nteta. “We worked hard in the offseason, focusing on getting stronger, faster, and making sure we are ready for a big season. Confidence has also been huge, trusting the work we’ve put in and just playing our game. For me, it’s about contributing in any way I can to help the team succeed.”
With a deep and balanced team, strong leadership, and building confidence each week, the Chieftains are set on achieving their goals throughout the season.