I sat down on a call with Senior soccer and lacrosse player Reed Mabry after his soccer season came to an end. A lot of emotions are felt after a senior season, so I got to take a look at some of those, as well as some of the positives and negatives the season held.
How long have you been playing soccer for the school?
3 seasons.
What got you into it?
My friends in the summer before sophomore year.
The season started a little shaky as the team lost 4 out of the first 5 games. Were there any key moments or wins that helped turn the season around?
Beating Williamsville North in OT twice really helped our confidence.
What are some of the biggest challenges the team faced throughout the season?
Chemistry. At the beginning of the year, we didn’t really know our perfect fit yet, and we didn’t know how to play within our team.
Both Coach and you stressed the importance of doing the little things right. What does this mean for the team, specifically?
You don’t win on Hail Mary plays alone; instead, the little things add up. If the little things are done right, opponents will make mistakes at some point.
What was your favorite memory from this season?
Beating Williamsville North in OT and running to the corner to celebrate.
What kind of traits do you possess as a player that contribute to the team?
Passion and vocalness.
What are you most looking forward to about your upcoming senior lacrosse season?
The ability to grow in my defensive skills and hopefully see some time on offense.
What are your goals?
To win Sectionals and also the Far West Regional game.
Coach Michael completed his first season with the team last year. What are your thoughts on him as a Coach?
I really like the way he stresses the little things and keeps practices fun while being intense. I also like how he balances being friendly and getting to know you with getting on you.
What is one thing you look to improve on before lacrosse season starts?
Shooting and the ability to create space
With it being your senior season, what do you want to leave behind for the underclassmen for both sports?
Have pride in playing for Orchard Park and have passion in everything you do.
What lessons have you learned from playing sports that you’ll carry with you?
Pay attention to the details and have passion for what you do because it all adds up in the end.
In our conversation, Mabry gave a recap of the soccer season and addressed the upcoming lacrosse season. He has big goals and things to improve before his last varsity lacrosse season begins. Reed does not plan to play soccer in college, so this was his last season putting on the cleats.
