News and Views
Kicking off the Soccer Season
Under the leadership of head coach Brenton Benware and his associate Coach Steve Beu, the Eagles men’s and women’s soccer teams completed a successful pre-season training camp and are now well into their season.
Benware has seven returning players on the men’s team, which welcomes back captains Jonathon Fowler and Lance Gwartney, as well as Weston Roberts, Tyrell Slagle, Michael Friend, Jamie Peterson, and Woo Ram Han, OWU’s Korean prodigy.
Gwartney has been a stalwart from the day I met him, his attitude both on and off the field speaking for itself. The senior from Tulsa, Oklahoma, demands 100-percent from his teammates at all times, and he works hard every time he steps on the turf. Yet he is quick to point out that his vision extends beyond the playing field.
"My main goal this season is to stay closer to the guys (his teammates) and grow more with Christ," Gwartney said.
Nevertheless, he also added, “I want to continue to represent my school and," with a huge smile, "to win more games."
Jonathan Fowler, Gwartney's co-captain, shares the same enthusiasm, but focused on the defensive game: "My goal is to not let any more goals score on us this season."
Another stand out for the Eagles this season is freshman Micah Disney.
"I really want to help the team do well this season,” Disney said. "I love playing here (OWU)."
Eagles’ veteran goalkeeper Tyrel Slagle showed his passion in one sentence. “I have never been to nationals, and I want to go this year.”
Coach Benware has brought several fresh faces to the team this year. Players such as Micah Disney, Windell Peters, Cameron Goscha and Nick Welch are just a few of those brought in to build the future of the program.
“I’m excited," Benware said after a recent practice session. “I saw some good stuff on the field and I am confident in you guys … I know we can reach the play-offs this season,” he added.
Women's Team Continues To Strike For Success
Benware is also the head coach of the women's team which has been improving its game.
Two of the most notable returnees on the women’s side are Amanda Slagle and Samantha Peterson, who play key leadership roles. The Lady Eagles have also acquired transfer junior Megan Myers, freshman Emily Stubbs and goalkeeper Lindsey Allen.
Upcoming Game
Both teams play at home this Saturday, the 24th, hosting York College.