The Ridge Devil’s Advocate interviewed Mark Stachowski, a junior soccer player on the Ridge Boys Varsity team, to discuss his love for the game of soccer and Ridge soccer’s performance this year.

The Devil’s Advocate: When did you first start playing soccer?

Mark: My parents took me to my first soccer camp when I was three years old. I’ve been playing the sport ever since.

DA: What motivated you to continue playing your sport?

Mark: My motivation to continue playing the sport is the passion I have. I love this sport very much, and I would be willing to give up other things in my social life just to play it.

DA: You seem very dedicated to playing soccer. Have you ever experienced any obstacles that impeded your ability to play your best? Have you ever wanted to give up?

Mark: I have had multiple injuries that have resulted in inability to play. Despite this, I have never given up, and I do not plan to in the future.

DA: That is very inspiring to soccer players who are facing numerous obstacles. Your dedication surely would inspire them to continue trying their best. After all these years of playing, what made you decide to try out for the Ridge Soccer team?

Mark: My years of training has developed me into a talented soccer player. I felt my skills and talents would benefit the Ridge Boys Soccer team.

DA: What do your coaches think of you?

Mark: I think my coaches respect and like me. I am a hard worker and have not given up, and they really appreciate my effort.

DA: That’s awesome! Do you have any achievements you wish to share?

Mark: Of course! I was the third top scorer on the varsity team, and had significant playing time throughout the year. I also scored 2 goals in one game!

DA: How did the Ridge Boys Varsity team do this year?

Mark: We ended up with 8 wins and 10 losses. We did, however, go to the second round of the County Tournament and the quarterfinal round of the sectional tournament.

DA: What words of advice do you have for young soccer players who feel like they are not good enough or want to become better?

Mark: I can say that I was once in their shoes. I was once still deciding whether soccer would be my sport of choice. I persisted and continued to play, and eventually I became very good at it. That’s when I knew soccer was meant for me. Younger soccer players will not really know if soccer is their passion until they have played it for a while, and have developed skills and had considerable experience in the sport.

DA: What do you love most about soccer?

Mark: I love the fact that it is thrilling. Every time I am on the field, adrenaline builds up and I become ecstatic. I also respect the fact that it is a team sport, as I like to work with my teammates, so that we can reach success together.

Mark hopes to see more success next year as a Senior on the team, and is looking forward to once again taking the field playing the game he loves.