Everybody Loves a Comeback Story

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Coach JMO congratulates players after their first win of the season.

Written by J-Mo Morelos—long-time MSA Boys Soccer coach and current assistant coach to Tom Spivey.

The 2022 soccer season at Miller School of Albemarle (MSA) never saw the light of day. The team was disbanded before the first whistle could blow. There was a shortage of players, key seniors graduated, and I had to take a break from coaching as I began a Master's program at UVA. 

Fast forward to 2023, and the team is back with renewed vigor. Furthermore, their ranks are now dominated by eighth and ninth graders, with only four seniors donning the team's colors this year.

In 2023, the MSA soccer team is on a mission—to rebuild and emerge stronger than before, despite facing challenges. At the beginning of the school year, the team found itself with an unknown roster and talent pool, casting a shadow of uncertainty over its prospects. Additionally, the absence of a head coach until late August left them with limited time to prepare for the season. Scheduling issues further tested the resilience of the coaching staff.

Amidst these obstacles, however, the team’s commitment to its athletes remained. Their aim is to sow the seeds of knowledge, technical proficiency, and a passion for the game of soccer. The MSA soccer program's foundation for success is rooted in the values of attitude and effort, principles the coaches believe are essential in any situation.

The success of this rebuilding endeavor would not be possible without the dedication of the coaching team. Tom Spivey, the current head coach, stepped up when the team needed him the most. Tom agreed to take on the role of head coach, but it wasn't a mere acceptance of responsibility; it was a personal challenge as he has never coached JV or Varsity level, despite coaching middle school age athletes for the past 25 years. Being a head coach for the soccer team is a decision that highlights his willingness to stretch himself and adapt to the circumstances. Through this journey, he is not only teaching the game of soccer but also learning and evolving as a coach. 

Vicki Laub, the assistant coach, has also been an instrumental presence over the past three years. Her contributions extend beyond the sidelines, where she offers continuity and valuable insights that have helped shape the team's identity. She plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations of the MSA soccer program. She maintains discipline and accountability among the players. Most importantly, she serves as the vital line of communication, bridging the gap between the coaching staff, the team, and the faculty. With Vicki's support in handling administrative tasks and logistics, Tom can dedicate his full focus to coaching skill development and tactics, enhancing the team's overall preparedness and performance. 

I returned to the pitch this fall in the role of assistant coach. In this role, I am able to provide support to Tom as he embarks on a new coaching responsibility with a different age group. 

As the team's senior captains, David Covington and Evan Rinkevich bring their experience and leadership to the field. Having been with the MSA program since their early years, they serve as the backbone of the squad, offering mentorship to their younger teammates and helping to foster a culture of resilience and excellence. Together, this dedicated coaching team is poised to lead the MSA soccer team as it rebuilds this season.

As the MSA soccer team steps onto the field in 2023, they do so with a desire to rise from the ashes of their 2022 setback. This year, the JV team has already played two games, showcasing their determination and potential. Remarkably, they emerged victorious in both encounters, with impressive scores of 7-3 and 10-1, respectively. While these early victories are encouraging, it's important to note that the primary focus this season is not solely on winning matches.

The MSA soccer program's core objectives lie in individual development, team chemistry, and providing valuable game time experiences to as many young players as possible. Whether it is in the intensity of 11vs11 games or the dynamic challenges of 8vs8 matches, the emphasis is on nurturing skills, fostering unity, and preparing the next generation of soccer talent.

With this holistic approach, the MSA soccer team is poised for a comeback. Their strong focus on foundational skills, teamwork, and individual growth sets the stage for a promising season. As they continue to plant and nurture the seeds of knowledge and passion for soccer, one thing is clear: this young team's journey has only just begun.