The Owatonna Boys Soccer team has played ten games so far this season, sitting at 3–5–2 overall. In conference games, the Huskies are 0–1–2, which puts them in eighth place in the section standings. While the record may not look impressive at first, it doesn’t tell the whole story. The Huskies have faced some of their toughest competition early on, and even through adversity they believe there is still a lot left to prove. Junior Jack Hawkins said this about the season up to this point, “So far the season hasn’t gone as we thought, but we are still feeling confident in this team and we know we can turn it around.”
Team chemistry has been a theme for Owatonna this year, especially in the midfield, where most of the same starters from last season returned. This consistency has helped Owatonna control possession and set the tone in several games, even against stronger opponents. Junior Captain Carson Van Gelder said that the Huskies stay focused because of their bond. “We know why we are here, we are all playing for each other, and that keeps us motivated,” Van Gelder said.
One of the team’s highlights so far came against Winona, when Owatonna scored a late game-winning goal in a close, hard fought battle. Wins like that give the team confidence moving forward and show the potential that they have when everything comes together. Hawkins said that the team sees moments like this as signs of improvement. “That game showed we can compete with anyone if we trust each other and play how we play the game,” Hawkins said.
Even in difficult match ups, the Huskies have shown the ability to step up and stay competitive. The players believe that with more conference games ahead, there is plenty of time to climb the standings. Hawkins explained that the team is focusing on progress. “We know the standings matter, but right now we’re more focused on improving every game,” Hawkins said.
With the season still unfolding, Owatonna is looking to turn lessons into results. Every game is an opportunity. The Huskies’ hard work and their commitment to each other remain at the center. Wins and losses are a part of the journey, but their growth as a team may be the biggest story of all.
The Huskies’ next home game is set for Tuesday, Sept. 25, at 7 p.m. at the Lincoln Soccer Complex. They will face Rochester Mayo in a key conference match up.
