Wednesday, October 30, 2013

2013 Soccer Banquet

Monday night we concluded the 2013 Varsity soccer season by reflecting and celebrating.  The night included: great food, fellowship, a slide show (thanks Dr. Hoekstra!), individual awards, recognition of every player and reflections of the season.
As I reflected on the season it brought me to the question that I am often asked at the end of every season--"was it a successful season?"  This is a question that has many layers considering that everyone has their own thoughts and philosophy behind what "success" is.   Coaches, players, parents all have expectations for what success is for each player as well as us as a team.  Ending the season with a 11-6-4 record, having 12 shut outs, scoring 50 goals and only have 17 scored against were all byproducts of quality individual efforts and team efforts.  There were some disappointments along the way and also some great joys, however, all-in-all most would consider it a "successful" season.  One of the absolutes for Holland Christian soccer will be to always strive for excellence on the field! (Some day soon I expect to post a picture of us with the state championship trophy.)
Then I take a few steps back and look at the bigger picture--were kids given the opportunity to grow as young men and learn life lessons and what it means to be a person of integrity?  Were they challenged to be the ultimate teammate?  Were they able to use the game of soccer to show others God's love?  Were they personally challenged in their own walk of faith?  Questions like these are challenging but have priceless/eternal value.  Opportunities for growth in these areas are the ultimate absolutes for the HC soccer program.
It was a good season where we were all challenged at some level...it was a "successful" season.  I am thankful for the opportunity to have a small part in each varsity soccer players' journey as young men who are followers of Christ. 
Parents, thank you once again for your commitment to your son and your support to the HC soccer program.
Players, thank you once again for your willingness to learn, work hard, and grow.

I look forward to continuing to lead the HC soccer program!


GO MAROONS!

Monday, October 7, 2013

2013 Senior Night

2013 HC SENIORS (not pictured: Levi Snoeyink)
A note from coach DeBoer:
I am thankful and feel blessed to have this group of Seniors. As a group they are gifted, well-rounded and fun to be around.

This group of Seniors is special to me. Before becoming the Varsity coach, I got the chance to coach these players on the Freshmen level. It has been a privilege to see how they have grown not only as soccer players but also as people.

I look forward to seeing where God takes them in their next stage of life and I hope that our paths cross in the future.

As a program, we strive for excellence, both as soccer players and individuals. This Senior class has done that and has set a model for classes to come at Holland Christian.
 


Let's meet our 2013 Seniors:
#18 Rilee Bouwkamp
Rilee is a two year Varsity player for Holland Christian. This year Rilee served as a Captain; where he leads by example. As a central midfielder, Rilee’s play is consistent and his work ethic is unmatched. He plans on continuing his soccer career at Hope College next fall. 

#8 Isaac Brace
Isaac is a two year Varsity player for Holland Christian. He always has a great attitude and is known for his rocket-­of­-a-­shot. Isaac plans on attending Calvin College or Grand Valley State University next fall; majoring in Pre­Dental. 

#19 Devan Hoekstra
Devan is a two year Varsity Player. He is a disciplined defender who has calm demeanor and has the coolest nickname on the team....”BIG CAT”.
Devan plans on attending Michigan Tech or Grand Valley State University this fall majoring in Mechanical Engineering.

#11 Marcus Hoekstra
Marcus is a two year Varsity player for Holland Christian. His energy and ability to create has been key this year for the Maroons.  Marcus plans on attending either Hope, Kalamazoo, or Wabash College; hoping to major in Political Science, International Relations, and/or Economics.

#20 Alex Keizer
Alex is a two year Varsity player for Holland Christian. As a captain and center back, Alex is a
student of the game who is also fierce competitor on the field. Alex is most likely attending Calvin College next fall; hoping to major in biology, or engineering

#12 Evan Leppink
Evan is a two year Varsity player at Holland Christian. He is a smart and consistent outside back. Evan will be studying Aerospace Engineering at either the University of Michigan or the University of Ohio State next fall.

#21 Cody Machiela
Cody is a two year Varsity player for the Maroons. His freakish athleticism, long throw­in’s and consistent play makes him a valuable part of our team. He plans on attending Grand Valley State University next fall; studying Mechanical Engineering.

Levi Snoeyink
After sustaining an injury playing soccer this summer Levi was asked to be an honorary member of the Varsity team for his senior year. Regardless of his own situation Levi has always put his team first. He is unsure where he will be studying next fall but plans on majoring in Pre-Med.

#6 Abe Wierda
Abe is a three year varsity player. His skill on the ball and ability to attack make him a dangerous threat any time he steps on the field.
Abe plans on attending either Cornerstone, GVSU, or Wabash College; hoping to major in biology and/or Afro­-American Studies


Thank you seniors for your commitment to the Holland Christian Boys’ Soccer Program. We look forward to seeing where God takes you in your next stage of life!