Chargers Soccer Club CHARGERS TPA G2002 SELECT THERE ARE ADVANTAGES TO playing soccer with the same group for a long time; one of those advantages is developing a close team that plays together well and keeps an eye out for their teammates and friends. This is the sixth year the Chargers TPA G2002 Select have played together. During those years, they have not only formed a formidable soccer team but bonded as teammates and friends. Coach Steve Kulavic is quick to praise his team for their teamwork on and off the field. Asked if the girls were close, helping each other Top row, from left: Paige Webster, Brooke Dekle, Melanie Copeland, Callie Zack, Eman Alwreikat, Lara Esen, in games and practice, his answer Haley Chambers, Kendle Valido, Nisa Cahoon, Casey Sutton Bottom row, from left: Isabella Herrera, Rylee Humphries, Taylor Pryor, Bella Avila , Maude Castonguay was emphatic. “Yes, our team is very close which makes this team so much more special. Many girls attend the same school together and are also great friends outside of soccer. They all work very well together and help each other bring out their strengths with lots of positive energy and compliments,” he says proudly. “They all really have a ‘TEAM’ mentality, we win together and lose together.” Their playing personality is consistent but versatile. “We work on applying immediate pressure when defending,” Coach Kulavic says. “Once we win the ball — and depending what one-third of the field we are in — will determine if we shoot, pass, or possess. We always look to shooting first.” CLW 2005/2006 Boys huddle around the coach.
There are 18 players on the team, so each one plays for a different reason, according to Kulavic. “Most of the players want to play college soccer. In reality, the love of the game motivates the players,” he says. “They work so hard to not let their teammates down. Playing for a prestigious club like the Chargers makes them proud.” He pauses and adds, “All the above and more is what motivates the players.” The team does set personal and team goals, everything from fitness to play of the game. Everyone adds something valuable to the team, and Kulavic is pleased at the way team leaders help coach their teammates on the
field. “Yes, we do have those leaders,” he says. “What is amazing is that all the players are leaders; they help coach the teammates around them. Courtney, Lara (our keeper), and Nisa really can direct the play on the field. They take the training sessions during the week and help the players on the field to play what we practice.” So, what’s next for the TPA G2002 Select? “In preparation for the girls to play in college the spring of 2018, we will be looking to play some of our local colleges during their spring training. This will be a great way to play in front of college coaches for 90 minutes.”