West Orange Boys Soccer Welcome Next Generation of Players

The West Orange Boys Soccer team stepped onto Lincoln Field for their season home opener against Montclair Kimberly Academy Friday September 17, 2021 in front of a energetic crowd, eager to watch the team pickup right where they left off last season after coming up short in a penalty kick shootout during the Semifinals of the State Tournament.

A focus on the future and a feeling of inspiration and community was in the air as the Boys Soccer team invited some of the youngest members of the West Orange United FC travel soccer program onto the field for warm-ups before ultimately cheering on the team to a 1-0 win thanks to a penalty kick by senior captain Ari Rosu during the first half.

For many of these U8/U9 aspiring soccer stars, stepping onto the big field, getting a chance to shoot on the goalie, taking part in half-time activities, and placing the ball at the center spot for the start of the second half was the highlight of their week. The moment also provided an important reminder for many of the varsity team players on where they started, how they got here, and how influential they are to this next generation of young athletes in the community.

Many members of the current varsity roster got their start playing for West Orange United FC, and for many of the seniors and juniors, this season represents a 10-year journey of practices, trainings, and games as they set their eyes on County and State Championships.

"One of my biggest goals every season is to ensure the team feels like a family. Family sticks together on and off the field. Family always has your back" said Boys Soccer Head Coach Doug Nevins.

"I've had the opportunity to watch many of these players grow from young dreamers into the leaders you see on the field. Bringing these young guys into the family early helps everyone. Our community is one big family, we're just here doing our part."

The team plans to continue working with West Orange United FC and Mountain Top League to offer the next generation of soccer superstars a variety of ways to enjoy and participate in the remaining home games during the season.

Home game schedule:

• Wednesday, September 22, 2021 - 4PM vs. Columbia
• Tuesday, September 28, 2021 - 4PM vs. Glen Ridge
• Friday, October 1, 2021 - 7PM vs. Glen Rock
• Monday, October 18, 2021 - 4PM vs. Millburn
• Monday, October 25, 2021 - 4:30PM vs. Ferris (senior night)
• Tuesday, October 26, 2021 - 4:00PM vs. Nutley
• Thursday, October 28, 2021 - 4:00PM vs. Plainfield
• Saturday, October 30, 2021 - 12:00PM vs. Morristown