Emma Narvaez
The High School Football season came to a close with Senior Night, a time for the seniors to reflect on their final season and appreciate their time as part of the team. Despite some ups and downs throughout the season, both the girls’ and boys’ teams pushed through and gave it their all in their final home game. The girls’ team, in particular, had reason to celebrate as they finally won their first game towards the very end of the season.
The boys’ final home game was on April 18th against Christian Academy Japan and although they did not win, a player on the team, Alejandro (G11), still managed to score a goal, bringing the final score to 2-1. When asked about the team’s performance during this game, Alejandro explained: “We didn’t pass the ball as much as we should’ve and we didn’t play as well as we did in other games.” However, he also noted that the team had improved a lot since the games earlier on in the season and in the tournament. Additionally, the high school boys’ football coach, Mr. Patmore added that “it was still a memorable occasion, and to see the eight seniors recognized for their contribution to the team before the game was special.”
Alejandro considers the game against Canadian Academy in the tournament as a key highlight for him during the season. He explained, “The score was 2-2, coming from 2-0 and we were able to score the two goals in the last thirty minutes.” Mr. Patmore also mentioned that “the instances where [the team] showed togetherness as a team when under pressure, for instance staying calm when going a goal or two behind and coming back to draw or win games” were highlights of the season for him. He also states that “a last-minute win away at Zama was quite memorable.”
To celebrate the seniors on the team (Kai, Risu, Masanori, Jun, Alexie, Oliver, Shikoh, Kyo), the team managers bought each senior a flower to honor their achievements and contributions throughout their years in high school.
Message from Mr. Patmore:
“It’s been a privilege to coach the boys’ soccer team once again, especially with eight seniors in the squad this year. They in particular deserved a full season of soccer, considering every high school year so far for them was covid-impacted.”
Go (G11), another player on the team, would like to give a message to Mr. Patmore – “I love you.”
The girls’ final home game went against K. International School Tokyo and was held on April 21st. Throughout the season, each game became a question of “How badly are we going to lose this time?” The looming uncertainty added an extra layer of pressure to the game, making it clear that this would be the last chance for the team to redeem themselves and end the season on a high note. Fortunately for them, they did just that! After 11 consecutive losses, the High School Girls Football team finally won with a score of 5-0.
In regards to the team’s performance as a whole, many have observed that it has improved since the beginning and in previous years. One player, Alana (G11), stated, “I think the last time we even won a game was ninth grade, so I think it’s better, and I feel like we’re more of a team this year.” Additionally, after Mr. Boyd laughed upon reflection of the team’s performance, he explained, “Look, some of the games were just completely out of it, completely. We were just bodies for the opposition, and there was too much of a gap between the quality. Therefore, we got very little out of it. But, we’ve improved and I was glad to see that. I suppose that result was the accumulation of that improvement.”
Despite the minimal wins throughout the season, there have still been various achievements to be acknowledged. Trois (G11), another player, stated, “I think one of the key highlights was scoring my first goal.” Mr. Boyd agreed, saying, “It’s always good to score a goal, I like that.” He also explained how adding a sweeper position (played by Lina (G9)) behind defense was a great addition that contributed to the team’s improvement. He explained, “I thought ‘Oh well, she’s fast so we’ll put her at the front’, but actually, someone suggested her at the back, and that proved to work. And wow, not only is she fast, but she’ll do a job. To me, I was very pleased that actually our improvement came with going to five in the back.”
The two seniors on the team, Rei and Addy were also congratulated for the past years they’ve played on the team, and were given decorative signs made by their teammates as well as a bouquet of flowers.
Overall, the football season concluded smoothly with a beloved tradition, marking the end of many high school football careers. This cherished event allowed the team to look back on the highs and lows of the season, the camaraderie and lasting friendships that were formed, and the lessons learned both on and off the field. Congratulations to everyone who took part in the football season this year!
Emma Narvaez