Boys’ soccer ran full force into their season more motivated than ever, proving their strength with a 10-5-2 record and looking to become CMASS Champions.

They began a rigorous practice schedule early in the summer, preparing for what they hoped would be their best season yet. However, they were unaware of the challenges that lay ahead.

Early in the season, the team lost senior captain Sebastian Royo to an ACL injury, shaking the spirit of the whole team.

“I speak for the whole team when I say Sebastian was really our rock,” senior captain Shawn Sullivan said. “We knew we could always rely on him to step up in big games.”

Royo played a huge role on and off the field. He was named captain because many looked up to him due to the strength and positive energy he brought to the team.

Although the team was missing one of their key players, they managed to keep pushing through.

“Our team has become much more united since my injury,” Royo said. “Although we have had some troubles, we really came together through the difficulties. As a captain, the most I can ask my team to do is play with passion.”

When the team first lost Royo, they were unsure of who would be able to fill his position. The momentum they had at the beginning of the season had taken a turn.

As seen in recent games, the team is back on track and once again connecting on the field. Many players have stepped up in the hopes of filling Royo’s role on the field.

With playoffs rounding the corner, the boys prepare for what they hope to be a long run in the postseason.

“I think we are hitting our stride right at the perfect time, just before playoffs,” senior and captain Nick Casapulla said.

The “blonde boys” are ready for a fight to the finish. They are all motivated to win, despite the tough situations that they have faced this season.

“Our team has formed great chemistry, although it was tough at first, and now we are playing the best we have all season,” junior Zach Osetek said.

Come support the blonde boys in the playoffs, starting in early November.