Tilling the Soil

The last home game of each sports season is designated Senior Day, where the careers of graduating seniors are honored, and the 2021 seniors didn't disappoint. The countless hours logged on the practice fields and in the weight rooms eventually come down to one final game for every student-athlete. Senior Day is an opportunity for the Providence family to thank the seniors for their hard work, commitment to the school, and legacy they leave behind.

Though competitive, the Providence Christian men's soccer team entered Saturday's Senior Day match versus University of Antelope without a win. The Sea Beggars battled countless injuries and overcame a myriad of hurdles throughout the season, but they continued to show that they were committed to the process and increasingly improved game by game. They were chomping at the bit to get over that hump, and on Senior Day, their desire and growth was on full display. From the opening whistle, the Sea Beggars pushed the tempo and looked for opportunities to attack. Senior Mikey Parness (FR/Victorville, CA) set the tone early with his high energy play on both offense and defense. He hurried the UAV players into misplayed balls and forced passes, as well as contesting every fifty-fifty ball with confidence. Parness' high energy was contagious, and his teammates followed suit. In the 35th minute, that intensity started taking its toll on the Pioneers as they fouled senior Drew Macias in the box, awarding PCC a penalty kick. Unfortunately, the shot was saved, but confidence was building for the host Sea Beggars. Seven minutes later, fellow senior Natye Whitt (SR/Moorpark, CA) found himself with the ball at his feet well inside the 18-yard box. With great composure and execution, Whitt put the ball past the hands of the outstretched UAV goalkeeper and into the back of the net. Natye's goal was his first on the season and ended up being the game winner. Both teams played a solid second half with opportunities to score, but neither side found paydirt. Shining again was sophomore goalkeeper Gavin Thogmartin (SO/Oak Hills, CA) who showed up in a big way, making five crucial saves to preserve the 1-0 win.

This game gave head coach Franklyn Joseph his first career win as a head coach. When asked about the game and season Joseph said, "This Fall season has been one filled with different challenges to overcome. Amongst all these challenges we have had success in different areas of our character and attitude. Our coaching staff has been intentionally tilling the soil of this program, both on the field and in the lives of our young men off the field. We are beginning to see the fruits of these labors, and our focus will remain steadfast as we conclude the 2021 season and prepare for 2022. To end the season off the with a victory and to do so on senior day is one that will live long in the memory of these players, coaches, and spectators."