As the fall soccer season winds down, the University High School (UHS) boys’ soccer team reflects on a season filled with growth, resilience, and a strong focus on team-building. Although this year wasn’t the team’s most successful in terms of wins and losses, Coach Silenok sees it as an essential “rebuilding year” that lays the groundwork for future success. With a roster featuring many new and inexperienced players, the focus this season was on building team chemistry and cultivating a united front on the field.

Coach Silenok described the effort level as consistently high throughout the season, both in practices and games. “Effort was never an issue with us,” she said. “The boys were constantly pushing themselves in every practice and pouring their hearts into every game.” Dedication that reflects the team’s drive to improve, even during a season marked by challenges and transitions.

For Coach Silenok, the rewards of coaching go beyond soccer skills and match results. “One of my favorite things about coaching, specifically this program, is watching the boys build character,” she shared. While developing as soccer players is important, Silenok emphasized that what truly matters is how the players grow as individuals. “Soccer is only a short part of their life,” she noted. “How they grow as humans is much more important, much more lasting, and impacts their future much more.” Silenok believes that the game teaches valuable life skills such as handling tough moments, putting the team first, and working together — lessons that extend far beyond the field.

Looking ahead, Coach Silenok has her sights set on building upon this season’s foundation. Her goals for next year include competing more effectively in both the conference and state tournaments and fostering the growth of her younger players. Another important goal for the team is to earn the conference’s sportsmanship award, an honor that would reflect the values she instills in her players.

While the 2024 season may not have brought home trophies, the UHS boys’ soccer team concludes it with strengthened bonds, valuable experience, and a clear vision for the future. Coach Silenok’s focus on character-building and teamwork suggests that the UHS soccer program is preparing players for life, not just the next game.