By Marne Cook

Special to the Weekly

The cleated shoes dig into every inch of the grassy field as the Lopez Island High School soccer team runs up and down and all around.

“We are looking forward to improving our ability to dominate the ball and capitalize on opportunities,” said Shawn Westervelt, the coach of the high school team.

Westervelt said that this year the soccer team’s greatest strengths are playing with heart and integrity and awareness of how to play space and use strong, collaborative teamwork.

The first game of their season was a bit rough. With only nine players on the field these hardworking athletes played the entire game with no substitutes.

Although they were unable to walk away with the win, they were able to walk away knowing that they did their best and that they can endure whatever comes their way, said their coach.

Seniors Nia Bartolucci and Michael Reeve are co-captains for this year’s soccer team.

“We’ve all worked hard,” Reeve said. “It has been a great experience to watch everyone grow and improve their skills. I am excited to see how this season turns out.”