El Dorado soccer fights through adversity to season

El Dorado's boys' soccer program will introduce a new coach again this season. Rex Hayes, who also coaches tennis, takes over the program for the Wildcats.

Hayes said the team began practice early in December. He also had a group of players in a strength and conditioning class since the beginning of the year.

Like most athletes, the Wildcats are hungry for action after last season was canceled.

“I'd say the majority of the boys are eager to go out and prove themselves having missed out on last year,” Hayes said. “I watched some film of the early games they were able to play, and they were looking really good.”

The team has battled around the weather issues and COVID concerns to get prepared for the season.

“COVID has been tough,” said Hayes. “We've had a few students get quarantined and it makes practice difficult when starters are missing for two weeks, but I think we've managed well.”

El Dorado's program has, traditionally, sent teams to the state tournament. The coach believes the ingredients are present for another solid season.

“We've got a great defensive line that has the quality to play out from the back and get into the attack, a midfield that is tactically intelligent and a few solid attackers who we'll be able to rotate as frequently as needed,” said Hayes.

“With only a few non-conference games, my main concern is that these boys haven't played in a competitive match for a long time. It's going to take some adjusting for them to settle in, but I believe they're up for the challenge.” Team goals?

“We'd be silly not to shoot for winning conference and state,” answered Hayes. “I think we have the individual quality. We're just putting everything together as a team. With COVID, I think most teams are in the dark about other soccer programs, so it'll be interesting to see how everyone adapts.”