Similar to a few of Toll Gate’s fall athletic teams, the Titan’s boys soccer team is off to a hot start. Toll Gate’s Division two soccer team is currently 5-1 on the season and is still undefeated in division play with their only loss coming to division one Pilgrim. A contributing factor to the team’s success is midfielder Braydon Fagundes, a senior playing his first season for Toll Gate. He has already been impactful scoring eight goals with a handful of assists, all while showing great leadership on and off the field. I was able to sit down with Braydon to gain insight on the team and himself as a player.
Q: How is the team chemistry this year?
A: “The overall vibe of the team is great. Everyone gets along and enjoys playing with each other. For new players, including myself, the summer practices helped gain chemistry and bonding. Also, as a result of playing well during the early season games, the team chemistry has built with it.”
Q: What are the team’s goals for the year?
A: “We plan on hopefully making it to the division final, and hopefully winning. Seeing how we do against higher division opponents will help us see what we truly need to work on and should help push our competitiveness.”
Q: Can you explain why you were not able to play high school soccer the last few years?
A: “I was in a league called MLS Next, the league does not allow players to play high school soccer because of a contract.”
Q: How do you like playing high school soccer compared to travel/club?
A: “High School soccer is a bit of a lower level, different coaching styles, different styles of play, more physical, less penalties. However, high school so far has been more enjoyable, less stressful, and fun getting to play with friends you see everyday in school.”
Q: How do you handle pressure during big games and moments?
A: “Take a deep breath, try not to listen to the crowd, try to not get mad at mistakes, make sure not to get mad at myself and keep my emotions in check.”
Q: What are your plans for after high school?
A: “If I could get into a college for soccer, it would be awesome. Outside of soccer, I would plan to try and become a physical trainer or gym teacher.”
Q: With the last question, where is your go-to spot to get a bite to eat after a win?
A: “Normally I like the Chick-fil-A option, go-to post win. However, the team and parents have been providing awesome meals for the players after games. For example, I had a great calzone after the game prepared by one of the parents.”
