NEW MARKET — Culture.
That is what new Southmont boys soccer coach Ben Razo wants to establish on and off the field.
“The key goals are obvious, including win as many games possible” Razo said. “We will be bringing a very competitive attitude and help change the culture around soccer — or as we call it, football — bring more excitement and build a crowd.”
The Mounties come off a 3-13-1 campaign, 2-6 in the Sagamore Conference and have not won a sectional match since 2019.
They lose just three seniors from 2023. Among those back are Sam Berrecil, Hunter Grimes, Lucas Oppy, Tyler Petrosky, leading scorer Hunter Gray and goalkeeper Paul Hazlett, who averaged over 10 saves per game as a junior.
So Razo’s optimism is high with his brand of culture. He has coached the sport about six years in several states, most recently at an academy in Westfield.
“I’m really excited to help this group of players,” Razo said. “They work really hard and have a lot of dedication as well as our new coaching staff. They bring with a lot of expertise to help develop the guys into great players.”
Razo looks for leadership starting at the top.
“We also want to help them in personal growth and rely on the seniors to help out their lower classmates.”
South opens the regular season Aug. 19 at home against Sheridan.
