The 2016 Andover Eagles 7th and 8th grade co-ed soccer season was a fall highlight for many AE/MS athletes, parents, and spectators. The Eagles began the season with a week of preseason in the hot and humid days of August and have worked hard through the cool and crisp days of October. We have come a long way! Our footwork, ball control, communication, and team combinations are stronger than ever.

The Andover Eagles proved to possess grit and fortitude, coming to practice 4 to 5 times a week after school (in rain and shine), and often played in multiple games throughout the week. Their attitude toward one another and to other teams continued the AE/MS tradition of respect and good sportsmanship.

Many of our players came in playing one position, and ended up excelling in another. This was especially true for our tremendous goalie, Joey Upton. Due in large part to his quick learning and natural athleticism, the Eagles are going into their final week of soccer (at the time of this submission) with a winning season.

Defenders included the dynamic middle duo of Jazlyn Perkins and Lily Menard who consistently fended off incoming attackers, not only with their defense, but with their solid leg and foot strength. Outside defenders, who also saved us countless times with their off-sides traps, foot skills, and ability to clear to the outside included Sasha Mackenzie, Maura Kelly, Aaron Weeks, Garrett Niemyer, Cedar Kiedasch, and Katie Bent.

Midfield is where speed, communication, and ability to distribute the ball well are especially important. We were lucky to have Brynne Makechnie, Wesley Koziol (captain), Sadie Barton, Jaimes Southworth (captain), Fenn Davis, Kaylee Bendixson, and Morganne Budgett all step up in this capacity.

Of course, to win, scoring is also important! Midfielders were constantly on the look out for good shots, but also looking to distribute well to an attacking striker. Our strikers most often included Jeremy Johnson, Liam Donovan (captain), Jesse Niemyer, River Turnbull, Dana Buswell, and Tyler Champagne.

It is a testament to their passing and unselfish play, that eleven of our players have scored one of more goals, and eleven players have assisted at least one goal – every bit as important as the goal itself!

We will miss our graduating 8th grade players, but luckily, we’ve built much momentum with our younger seventh grade crew.

We are so thankful for the tireless effort of Athletic Director, Jim Tucker; Coach Adrian Bolte for stepping in when needed, our multiple bus drivers, and to parents and other family members who washed smelly socks and uniforms, fed us good food, picked us up from daily practice and games, and supported our entire team with snacks and good cheer. Thank you all!

With one week remaining, we are excited for three more games, including an all-day Kearsarge Jamboree. Way to go, Eagles!