Soccer requires a lot of heart and dedication from people on and off the field: Something players require is the ability to accept change.

Both boys and girls soccer teams want to go to playoffs this year. After making a few changes, both teams have worked to improve their speed, agility and strength.

“The biggest change that we made this year is that people trying out for varsity had to run cross country to be in better shape,” Girls Head Coach Gretchen Kloes said. “So, at the end of the games were in better shape than are opponents.”

Not only does soccer have new drills they have new faces.

“I have a lot of young freshman on the team, which is exciting because there all talented,” Girls Assistant Coach Morris Sweat said. “Also, I’m excited to see the girls that moved up to varsity.”

They have also fixed some minor issues such as failing classes. Coaches asked some students to stay after to bring up grades.

“We also worked on making sure students are acting right in hallways, classes and controlling anger and behavior issues,” Boys Head Coach Andrew McGregor said.

Several varsity captains said they have improved compared to last year.

“I play outside of school, practice all through summer camps and really dedicating myself in the weight room and offseason,” senior Abbey Currie said.

Senior Irma Gonzalez said success comes from practice.

“I have been working harder in the little details, which makes a bigger impact on the big details,” she said. “Well, for me, I’ve practice more on my touch, pass to be how I wanted it to be in a real game situation.”

Senior Emily Carrisales said she’s been practicing shooting and passing. Senior Maria Benitez said she’s worked on leadership skills.

“I have stepped up as a leader and taught the new defense the plays,” Benitez said.

Seniors Jose Rangel and Omar Quintana both said, “(The team) has become better but it took practice, hard work, getting to know the new team, and trusting the process.”