In a year when negativity has outweighed positivity much of the time, thanks to the COVID19 pandemic, the Natick High School boys soccer team offers a sliver of hope. This unprecedented season had the team play only eight games, and there were no state tournaments. There were also several rule changes. Head Coach Christian Rodriguez is very proud of his team. “The athletes were amazing! Their resiliency made our time together feel like it was a normal season,” said the coach, who is also a counselor at Wilson Middle School. The whole team, he said, played a fantastic season, but he called out the three senior captains. Four-year varsity player and captain for the team, “Matthew Mela is one of the most talented players I’ve coached since I started coaching here four years ago. He is extremely technical, has a very strong IQ of the game, extremely quick, and all-around a great kid,” said the coach. Three-year varsity player and captain Carter Doran “is the definition of what it means to be a captain. He is 100% in for his team and always leads by example on and off the field. His number one sport is baseball but when he laces up his boots for soccer, he’s 100% in. His never-give-up attitude during practice and matches was evident and it was contagious amongst the squad,” Rodriguez said. Three-year varsity player and captain Patrick Fleming “Patty” “has shown the biggest growth out of all the players I’ve had since I started coaching at Natick. His speed, endurance, pace, and strength was huge for our squad this season. He’s that player that will do anything for his team and always has a smile on his face! He started off upfront and mid-way through the season we put him on defense at outside back, and he did it without question and of course, with a smile,” he said. “I’m going to miss these three guys in the future, but I’m excited about all the great things they will accomplish in life. Great kids from great families!” he said. The three captains are not the only ones Rodriguez will miss. There are 17 seniors on the team this year. Rodriguez said despite the shorter season and the 1 and 7 record, his entire team came together and bonded like family. “What made me most proud of this squad is that they were 100% grateful to have a season, even if it was super short. They always enjoyed their time together on the pitch whether it was at practice or a game,” said Rodriguez.