The sun sets over the soccer field. Suspense fills the air as the team gathers. As the coach looks down at his clipboard, and he calls out the new captain. No. 10 steps forward as cheers erupt. He realizes he has been chosen.
Since junior David Loza could remember, he has been on the soccer field. This season, he was introduced as one of the boys’ soccer team captains, joining three other senior captains: Jason Osterman, Jack Kimberlin, and Matthew Waibel. In addition to Loza playing on the school team, he also plays for the TSF Academy.
When interviewing Loza under the fluorescent school lights, his passion for soccer stood out immediately. His eyes lit up while he talked about the game, and it was clear that his dedication to the sport was one of the main reasons why he was chosen as captain.
Even though this is Loza’s first season as captain, he has already significantly impacted the team. “David as a captain has lifted up the spirits of the team. Although it has been a slow start to the season, every game has been close. Every time David steps onto the field, he is a leader and model player,” said teammate Matthew Waibel.
In a game this season, Loza played a key role. “This year, I scored the tying goal to send us into overtime against West Essex. It was just filled with many emotions, and it was a great experience,” Loza said.
The team has a current record of 0-3-2. Despite the challenging start, this does not stop Loza. “He never gives up during a game regardless if we are winning, losing, or tied. He is a tireless worker that physically pushes himself and leaves everything on the field,” said coach Richard Rogers.
Loza’s influence as a captain is always shown when he is on the field. “David makes a good captain because the players respect him. Everyone has full faith in him as a player and captain. Another reason for that is because of his soccer IQ. Any time David has the ball, you know he will do something extraordinary with it,” said Waibel.
Soccer has always been a significant part of Loza’s life, taking after his family. “My dad and my brothers have been a big inspiration for me. We are a big soccer family, and they all have amazing careers that I pick up as time goes on,” said Loza.
During Loza’s first season as captain, he has already gone through experiences that gave him insights to become a better leader. “Being captain is definitely not an easy role because I have had to learn how to become the strongest version of myself that I need to be for my team. Being captain means you get to learn what it’s like to have the people around you look at you and rely on you during the highs and lows,” he said.
Loza’s love for soccer extends beyond the school team. He envisions himself playing professionally one day and dreams of sharing his skills with the world.
With a determined look, Loza steps up, ready to take on a new responsibility. The coach hands him a captain armband, symbolizing leadership. For Loza, this marks the beginning of a new journey.
