The Jackson boys soccer team definitely needed the seven preseason games to prepare for the start of the Western Conference South Division regular season slate of contests.
The Timberwolves graduated five key seniors, the most in head coach Brett Norton’s three-year tenure with the program. The addition of six new players to varsity has resulted in a steep learning curve for the Wolfpack.
“It’s been a learning experience for us,” Norton said. “We’re still trying to work out a few kinks. I think both attacking and defending as a team has been our main focus.”
The past two years Norton and his staff pretty much knew what roles certain players would fill on the team.
“This year it’s different,” he said.
A familiar and important face on offense is senior forward and co-captain Tye Hastings, who has scored a team-high four goals, two each in a 4-2 loss to Kamiak and a 3-2 victory over Mountlake Terrace last week.
“He’s going to be our biggest threat,” Norton said.
Joining Hastings up front is senior Brian Lefavour, who missed much of last season due to injuries.
“He didn’t get a lot of experience,” Norton said. “He should add punch to our attack this year.”
The defense returns co-captains Austin Wyatt and Daniel Sullivan.
“It’s nice to have those two returning,” Norton said.
Junior Mark Epps and senior Cory Gabrielson also figure prominently into Norton’s defensive plans. Freshman Zach Bylsma also is a strong addition to the defense. Last year’s backup goalkeeper senior Hayden Addington moves into the starting role.
“He’s a very strong goalie,” Norton said. “He hasn’t really had the ability to show that. We haven’t been to strong defensively. Hopefully, we’ll correct that.”
The Wolfpack just need more time together to get on the same page, he added.
“We have some pretty experienced players,” Norton said. “Once we get them all aligned with the team objective as far as team defense that should solidify it.”
Senior Morgan Taylor started out the season strong, scoring two goals in a 2-1 victory over Lynnwood. Taylor will share time up front with other players. Senior Riley Martin is an ideal role player, who can play multiple positions and should be a key part of the team.
Jackson has some size and speed but won’t overwhelm teams with either.
“We’re kind of a mix,” Norton said. “We play quick and play intelligent. We react pretty quickly on defense. … Our intelligence and our quick play gets us moving pretty quickly.
“I think we have good-sized defenders, good-sized midfielders and attacking forwards. We’re adequately sized for the positions we have our players in.”
Jackson’s victory over a veteran Mountlake Terrace squad boosted the players’ confidence, according to Norton. It was a close game from start to finish.
“We knew that was a strong team, a very experienced team,” Norton said. “We just happened to get one more goal. It was a big win.”
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