SHS Soccer Teams Wins It All!

Name:
Ben Stuart

Sport/Activity: Soccer

Position:
Head Coach 

Family Members: Karen (mom), Darren (dad), Daniella, Kristina

First off, tell us what it felt like in the final moments of the championship game?

During the final moments of the game I had huge feelings of achievement and accomplishment. All the hard work of the players and staff came together in that one moment and we can say “we’ve done it!” I have had the feeling as a player winning a national schoolboy championship. I was so happy for my players that they were able to experience that same feeling. The feeling of reaching the top of the mountain and nothing else in the world at that moment matters. The feeling that no one can ever take away from you and always brings a smile to your face.

When the season started, did you ever imagine holding up the championship trophy?

At the beginning of the season the coaches knew we had a very talented group of players. Last year caused a very broken up season for numerous reasons but we saw glimpses of what the group could be capable of. Gaining experience at the varsity level was crucial last season to prepare us for this year’s success. Rome was not built in a day!

Tell us, briefly, the high and low moments of such a long, exhausting season?

Some of the highs of the season were beating the tough union county competition away from home. Westfield 4-0 and Scotch Plains 2-1. The 8 game winning streak was a huge high that lasted the remaining weeks of the season to clinch the sectional and state championship. Losing twice in 3 games in late October was definitely a low moment. It is not that we lost to Scotch Plains and Wetfield because they are both great teams. It is the manner in which the defeats came, the dying seconds against Westfield and not being at our best against Scotch Plains. These two games taught us some valuable lessons that kicked started the 8 game winning streak!

Tell us why this team, out of so many incredible teams at SHS, was able to stand above the rest?

This team had so much technical and tactical ability it was a coach’s dream. During games we were able to adapt to our opponents strengths and exploit their weaknesses. The team’s ability to stay focused when it mattered and put the work in on the practice field was exceptional. Truly deserving champions!

For anyone learning the sport and dreaming of winning a championship, what advice can you give them?

You will not win a championship without hard work, dedication and the ability to overcome obstacles. As much as all these things are important to making it possible there is always one thing I try to remind my players before every game. We play sports because we have a passion and love for the sport. And more importantly than anything……..HAVE FUN AND ENJOY IT!