Tue Feb 07 2012
I wrote a few weeks ago when I returned to work for The Daily Record that it feels as though I never left, and since I've been back covering games, it still feels that way. When you do something as long as I have, the games all seem to run together, so every game is a lot like all the others, for the most part.
I've had the opportunity to watch two Hiland boys soccer games so far this season and they look awfully impressive. They are averaging seven goals a game through their first three matches, and I don't see anybody slowing them down any time soon.
Cody Miller and Braden Conn are two fleet-footed forwards for the Hawks, and they sub in Luke Burch, who only knows one speed: super fast!
The Hawks also have an impenetrable wall on defense, thanks to six solid players who rotate in. And that doesn't even include the outstanding skills of goal keeper Dylan Kaufman. He has not only blanked all three opponents he has faced, but he adds another dimension to the Hiland offense with his thunderous kicks and deft throw-ins.
It isn't often you see a keeper running up the field to start a play with a throw in, but his great arm strength and accuracy, plus having a 6-8 target to toss at in teammate Noah Boyd, helps generate some excitement. Against Waynedale, the Bears came up with a loose ball as Kaufman was making his way back up the field on one throw-in, which led to a shot on goal, but he also connected with Boyd for a score.
Coach Scott Bodiker is not surprised by Hiland's fast start, but is happy with the rate the team is producing offensively. He admits it may not continue all season long, but he will enjoy it while he can. It sure does a lot for the team's confidence.
The Hiland girls are also off to a fast start, posting a pair of impressive, lopsided victories. Coach Pat Miller has suffered through the growing stages of starting the Hiland program from scratch, and is reaping the benefits of the development of some of the younger players. This group will be a force for years to come.
The West Holmes boys soccer squad posted wins in its first two games, and with each victory, a bit of confidence grows in the young players. Coach Nic Fioritto was concerned about the team learning how to win, and thus far, they have proven to be quick learners.
The Hiland at West Holmes boys soccer match next Thursday, Sept. 9, is shaping up to be a good one.
The West Holmes girls soccer team will get an opportunity of a lifetime on Saturday, Sept. 18, when it plays the River View Black Bears at Columbus Crew Stadium. Kickoff is at 11 a.m.
Coach Josh Wengerd is excited about the opportunity to play at Crew Stadium as well as watch the Crew play that evening against the Seattle Sounders.
Tickets for the Crew game are $20. A limited amount of tickets are still available. For more information, contact Wengerd at 330-231-3688.
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