Melissa High School Boys Soccer Season Preview

This year Melissa High School’s soccer team has a lot to prove. Coach Justin Lowry is determined to change the narrative surrounding the team and is confident that this year’s squad will deliver. With several experienced returning players and new additions to the team, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation for the season ahead. In this preview article, we had the opportunity to speak with Coach Lowry about the upcoming season and his expectations for the team. The top returning players from last season include John Almond, Caleb Goodrich, and Jesse Contreras. These players were starters on the varsity team as freshmen and have developed into valuable assets for the team. Coach Lowry praises Almond for his speed, high soccer IQ, and leadership skills. He believes that Almond's actions and humility will have a positive impact on the team. Goodrich and Contreras, both seniors, are also expected to be influential leaders for the team. Goodrich, a 6’3 defender, is praised for his composure on the ball and ability to win duels. Contreras’ versatility and willingness to adapt to different positions make him a valuable asset to the team. When it comes to team captains, Coach Lowry looks for more than just good soccer players. He values qualities such as teamwork, motivation, and the ability to inspire and rally the team. This year, players such as Caleb Goodrich, Zeb Ranson, and Hayden Culbertson are in the running for the captaincy, with each possessing unique qualities that make them strong candidates. One of the biggest goals for this season is to build team chemistry and camaraderie. Coach Lowry believes that actions speak louder than words and looks for players who can lead by example. With a mix of experienced and new players on the team, establishing a strong team dynamic is crucial for success this year. The team's schedule for this season presents some challenges, as Coach Lowry and his coaching staff adjust to a new team and implement their style of play. He hopes to find a balance between building chemistry and teaching tactics to ensure that the team is prepared for tough opponents. One game that stands out is against Frisco Memorial, known for its high press and energy on the field. This face-off will test the team's ability to break through and play beyond their opponent's style of play. Coach Lowry’s coaching style may differ from previous seasons as he and his staff are now TOVO-certified.