Patch Sports Q&A: Sean Ahern

The boys' soccer team has high aspirations this season, relying on an experienced and talented defense.

Braves' senior Sean Ahern, 17, plays a big part of that defense, and recently showed he can help out on offense, scoring his first career goal in a 1-1 draw against Hammonton.

Galloway Patch caught up with the Braves defender to talk about the season and the school year.

Galloway Patch: How long have you been playing soccer?
Sean Ahern: Since I was 8 years old.

Galloway Patch: What do you like about soccer?
Ahern: I don’t know what got me interested me in soccer. Someone asked me to play and I loved it ever since. I’ve always loved playing defense. I like to win head balls and I like the physical part of the game.

Galloway Patch: Do you have any superstitions?
Ahern: I always pray before I play.

Galloway Patch: What’s your favorite soccer moment?
Ahern: Actually scoring on a diving header in the last game.

Galloway Patch: What did that feel like?
Ahern: It was the last two minutes of the game. We were down 1-0. It was exhilarating. I play defense and I never scored before. It was amazing.

Galloway Patch: Do you follow any English Premier League or Spanish league teams?
Ahern: I follow Everton and Barcelona and Real Madrid. I watch some of that.

Galloway Patch: Who is your favorite player?
Ahern: Sergio Ramos (of Real Madrid). He plays right fullback as well. I look up to him and watch how he plays and try to reflect that into my game.

Galloway Patch: What is your favorite subject at school?
Ahern: Is gym considered a subject? I’ve always loved gym. I also love the sciences. I like any sciences in general. I also like math.

Galloway Patch: Any plans for college yet?
Ahern: I’m going to college. I don’t know where or what for. I’m leaning toward pharmacy, but I’m undecided until I figure it out.

Galloway Patch: Does it feel different being a senior?
Ahern: It still hasn’t hit me yet. I haven’t felt it, but it’s starting to come. I know people are looking up to me and I feel like a leader on the team.

Galloway Patch: What is your favorite type of music?
Ahern: Rap.

Galloway Patch: Who is your favorite rapper?
Ahern: Mac Miller.