On The Rise

SEATTLE- As tryouts for soccer started during the spring, there was no expectation of what might occur later down the line. A mixture of players who have never stepped foot on the pitch together, doing so for the first time. Little did they know they were about to be in for a ride.  

The season did not start as planned as the Irish took early losses to North Kitsap (2-1) and Ballard (5-1) which is to be expected for a young team with new faces. “Many of us would take too many touches on the ball,” said O’Dea senior Peter Sanders as he remembers those early games.  

As time went on and there were more chances to practice and play with one another, things started to click for the team as they were getting draws, results of hard work as coach Matt Gregory's vision for the team was starting to take shape.

“We must understand the mission first, drop our ego, and execute… No matter the age or talent, it is important to communicate with each other, so we build trust,” said Sanders.  

Senior Peter Sanders

The team finally found their footing at the right time as they have been hunting for a state playoff berth since late March. This was caused by the Irish finding new ways to find success both offensively and defensively with the inspiration of their new talents. This has led to O’Dea going toe to toe with the number one ranked team in the state, Bishop Blanchet, and securing a draw. They would go on to finish the regular season with a statement 5-3 win over the Garfield Bulldogs.  

As of right now, the Irish don’t know who they will play next, but their mindset remains the same.

“If everyone is composed, goals and effective defending will come naturally. We will face adversity in playoffs, and it’s all about how you react.”