The Lerman Sermon
Today for my first sermon of the year, I bring to you Oliver Ames Soccer. The Oliver Ames Soccer program is one of the best in the country, both girls and boys. A dynasty to say the least. Coaches John Barata and Britt Sellmayer have done an extraordinary job of keeping their teams in good shape through the years. All though the coaches stay the same each year, the players do not. With few games left in the regular season, this is the breakdown of both the girls and boys soccer seasons.
On the girls side, captains Erin Holmberg, Abigail Hodges, and Olivia Carroll dominate on all ends of the field. Erin Holmberg, striker, has been destroying the opposing team’s defense. As of October 21st, Erin is the second highest scorer in the entire league with 27 points which is composed of 15 goals and 12 assists. On the defensive end, Abigail Hodges and Olivia Carroll have been tremendous in preventing shots on net. Abby and Olivia have proven time and time again how difficult it is to get past them as they have held opponents to zero points on numerous occasions. Another important name to mention is sophomore Emily Meyers. After a tough loss with junior goalie Emma O’Donnell suffering a shoulder injury, Emily has stepped up for the Tigers and has proven to be a talented goalie with 6 shutouts and an average goals against per game (GAA) of 0.96. Overall, the girls have proven how talented they are everywhere on the field with their 10-1-2 record putting the second in the entire Hockomock League.
On the boys side, captains Jonathan Freeman and Matthew “Nos” Nosalek have been spectacular. The team is an impressive 12-0-1, currently ranked second in the Hockomock League. Easily the most impressive aspect of the boys soccer team is the Great Wall. The “Great Wall” consists of seniors Harry Ahearn, Matthew Nosalek, and Jonathan Freeman on the back line. It is practically impossible for opposing strikers to go pass them as they have put up eight total shutouts. The seniors have clearly proved their strength on defense, but possibly even more impressive, is the junior dominated offense. Colin Miliken, ranked second leading scorer in the league, and Kevin Louis, ranked eighth leading scorer in the league, have embarrassed goalies. The two juniors have combined for 14 goals and 21 assists. The boys soccer team has put on quite a show for spectators this season. Their strong defense and energetic offense could lead them to a state championship.
If you were to watch an OA soccer game, no matter the gender, you will be impressed. This season might be one of the best soccer seasons in Oliver Ames History. The boys and girls team have combined for a 22-1-3 record. It is safe to say that both teams will not disappoint with only a couple games before playoffs as both teams have a clear shot at the state title. For the first Lerman Sermon of the year, I have delivered the gift that is OA Soccer.