The LCM Bear and Lady Bear Soccer seasons have kicked off and the players have their sights set on finishing the season strong and advancing to playoffs. 

According to head boys soccer coach Michael Thompson, the Bears have played some tough teams in their tournaments this year. Their district record is 2-2 and each game they are improving and learning how to play together as a team.

“I make the players set their own goals for each season,” Thompson said. “The team’s goal is to win district, make it to playoffs, and to make it at least past the first round in playoffs. My own personal goal for our team is to always see them showing growth each game, become a family on and off the field, and learn how to respect the game, the officials, the opposing team, and each other.” 

Thompson said his biggest leaders on the team this year are all of the seniors: Jason Perez, Richard Perez, Braxton Rambo, Devin Lafitte, and Nicholas Smith.

“They have all been on winning varsity teams and they know what it takes to be successful,” Thompson said. “Our team is very young this year and they do a great job encouraging and helping the younger players out.”

The girls team has a 2-2 district record at the moment.

“I think we’ll have a great season,” head coach Laura Sanchez said. “We have already improved dramatically during our pre-season games. We have a young team that will do great things this year and several years to come.” 

Junior Maddie McConnell said the team is doing well so far, even though they have a very young team.

“Many of our starters are underclassman,” McConnell said. “I have seen a ton of development just from the beginning of our pre-season until now as we approach district and I suspect we will only get better as we play together more.”

The Bears and Lady Bears both have a bye this Friday, but they will return to action next Tuesday, Feb. 13. The girls will host Bridge City and the boys will play in Bridge City.