After almost a year of not being able to play any games, athletes have been itching to play some real competition. For the soccer athletes, this year is all about building up both teams and improving each game.

For head coach of both men and women soccer teams, Chad Miller, encourages teamwork between all his players.

“In the beginning at the very start of training these athletes weren’t a team just yet, they were a group of people playing soccer, the team aspect came in as soon as they started working together,” Chad Miller said.

April 2^nd against Iowa Western Community College was the hawks first game of the season. Filled with nerves and excitement both teams were eager to play after all this time not being able to play a league game. The women’s team fought hard despite a 3-0 defeat against the Reivers.

“I would say we are doing really well with what we have, and all the hard work we put into this team,” Londyn Cacciacarne said, “We are still figuring out our new positions and all the new elements we added.”

Two weeks later the women’s team came out on top in a tough battle against Iowa Lakes Community College on the hawk’s home turf. The hawks were able to secure a 2-1 win.

“What has been really helping us the past few games is staying positive and being there for each other,” Londyn said.

The women’s team has a team motto “bring it,” which means that the team will bring everything they got and will give it their all during practices and games.

The men’s team started off with a loss against Iowa Western. The team is still figuring each other out and learning to communicate better with each other.

“Our season didn’t really start well, but I feel like we are getting more comfortable playing together each game,” Mano Veldt said.

With only two returning players the men’s team is full of new faces and new talent. Even through losses in the beginning of their season the men’s team continued to fight hard. Winning their match against Scott Community College on April 17^th the hawks got their first victory of the season with a 7-4 score.

“We all want to improve and get better as a team, so listening and communicating with each other is what’s going to help us grow together,” Mano said.

There’s still more to expect from hawk’s soccer this season, with a handful of games left this leaves both teams opportunities to grow together and reach success. Both teams are motivated to keep working hard and win their upcoming games. With nationals coming up this gives both teams a reason to keep working hard.

“What motivates me the most as a coach is the athletes, to be a part in watching them grow and succeed is why I do this,” Chad said