As the fall season ends, winter sports season is slowly approaching at FHS. Students can participate in soccer, basketball and wrestling.
FHS sophomore Mohamad Mortada, a part of the FHS JV Boys Soccer team is gearing up for the upcoming soccer season. He has been playing soccer for 10 years, and it is the only sport that has truly stuck with him.
“I play goalkeeper, which is one of the hardest positions, [as it] requires a different set of skills than a regular field player, and it’s the last man in the defense,” Mortada said.
As a goalie, Mortada’s role is to stop the opposing team from scoring, which demands constant vigilance and quick reflexes. This responsibility places immense pressure on him from both teammates and the audience.
“We focus more on hands, obviously, as a goalkeeper, but it’s kind of a lot of technique-based, it’s not really about power or strength either,” Mortada said. “You just have to hammer down the technique, and then you can become a good goalkeeper.”
Being a goalie requires a unique skill set compared to field players. Mortada’s dedication to his training is clear. He understands that mastering the technical aspects of goalkeeping is essential for success.
Throughout the summer, Mortada dedicated himself to rigorous training, focusing on refining his technique, agility, and reaction time. He practiced drills designed for goalkeepers, like throws and punts, to ensure he was prepared for every game scenario.
“[For] this upcoming season, [I have been doing] a bunch of drills, such as throwing […] some punts,” Mortada said.
Like many sports, regardless of season, teamwork is an integral skill for success. His fellow goalie, FHS sophomore Joey Miller, shares insights about working alongside Mortada on the field.
“Mohamad definitely has the skills to be a leader to command the team,” Miller said. “He is great at making saves and is a good goalie.”
Miller commented on the dedication Mortada brings to each practice and game, also speaking on his contributions during the game. Mortada’s ability to make pivotal saves during critical moments has not only influenced the game’s outcome but also elevated the team’s overall performance.
“I’ve learned to trust more in my [team’s] defense than in doing it all myself,“ Mortada said.
This newfound trust in his teammates underscores his development as both a player and a leader. Mortada’s commitment to training and teamwork sets a strong foundation for a successful soccer season with the winter season approaching. This winter season promises not only competitive matches, but a chance for Mortada and his teammates to showcase the hard work, trust, and unity that define them. For Mortada, each game is an opportunity to inspire, excel, and bring out the best in himself and his team.
