By Josh Lashley
WEST MILFORD — Stephen Beattie, the first-year head coach for the West Milford High School boys’ soccer program understands full well that his team will encounter some significant obstacles this season - and he embraces the challenge.
Sure, there will quite likely be several bumps in the road, as there are for just about all rookie coaches and the athlete’s on their roster. It’s how the coach in particular and the program in general respond to such circumstances that’s important.
“All coaches have high expectations for their teams and always reach beyond, and I plan to do the same,” Beattie said. “As their new coach, I expect them to work hard, follow my philosophies and compete at the highest level possible with exceptional sportsmanship. And no matter what the outcome is at the end of the match, earn the respect of the opposing team and let them know we came to play."
Returning seniors to the lineup for West Milford include Ethan Lipman (sweeper, captain) and Mike Uhr (striker, captain). Members of the junior class returning to the varsity roster include Connor Maupai (center midfielder), Cameron McQuade (goalkeeper), Taylor McQuade (midfielder) and Sam Yuhas (center midfielder).
“My captains, Lipman and Mike Uhr, are truly my team leaders,” Beattie said. “They are both committed and well organized. They keep the team on track and keep them responsible for their actions on and off the field.
“Junior’s Maupai and Yuhas are also team leaders, especially on the pitch. Their playing abilities and passion for the game helps control the play. They both set a good and promising tempo for the rest of the players.”
Among the promising newcomers to varsity for the Highlanders are sophomores Dillon Hayes, Nathan Malka and Chris Uhr.
“Malka has lots of potential and can play just about anywhere on the field,” Beattie said. “Hayes, the backup goalkeeper, is already stepping up - in our first scrimmage to cover for injured Cameron McQuade and through all the nervousness did a fine job. I expect him to mature into this position quite well. Chris Uhr is another upcoming newcomer who will see some varsity time. Chris can also play multiple positions.”
West Milford has an early season road contest scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 19 at Lakeland.
“Last year (West Milford) had a struggling season,” Beattie said. “These boys are working hard and already have it in their minds that they will do better and I feel comfortable that they will. However, it is now up to them. I can prepare and push them to get in the best condition and game ready for a hard season.”
Be sure to get out to McCormack field and catch a few of the boys' and girls' matches this season.