Leadership became a major point of emphasis this season for Amaia Alvarez as the Wichita Northwest senior stepped into a new role as one of the team captains.
While Alvarez has always focused on improving her technical skills and overall development on the field, this season brought a different perspective as she looked to lead the Grizzlies both on and off the field.
“My personal goals during every soccer season is to improve and develop my own skills and technique,” Alvarez said. “However, this season was a little different since I was a senior and voted as one of the team captains. This season I primarily focused on becoming a good leader, role model, and support system for my other teammates.”
Alvarez said she took pride in helping create a positive environment for her teammates while continuing to develop her own game. She believes her work ethic and determination have become defining traits in both athletics and academics.
“I believe that my biggest strength on the field and in the classroom is my work ethic and determination,” Alvarez said. “I utilize these skills to benefit my team by performing my best ability for each game, encouraging others to do the same, contributing to the uplifting playing tone, and continuing to play till the end.”
That mindset has helped Alvarez become a player her teammates can rely on during difficult moments. She hopes the example she sets will continue to impact the program after her playing career is over.
“I hope these role modeled skills will positively influence my teammates to do the same on the field and in whatever future goals and aspirations they pursue,” Alvarez said.
One of Alvarez’s biggest points of emphasis entering the season was improving her shooting placement. To accomplish that goal, she spent the offseason competing with FC Wichita during the fall and winter club seasons.
“Something I wanted to personally improve on this season was my shooting placement,” Alvarez said. “By the spring school season, I have grown more confident in my shooting abilities with both my left and right feet.”
Alvarez said the extra work especially improved the accuracy of her left foot, giving her more confidence offensively.
“While my right foot is my more dominant foot, my left footed shots have become more precise and accurate from my work in the offseason,” Alvarez said.
Although Northwest fell short of its goal of winning the Titan Classic tournament, Alvarez believes the team made major strides throughout the season and established a strong foundation for the future.
“From the development I have seen from our team this season, I believe that we have a good chance at taking gold next year,” Alvarez said.
