It’s a wrap on the Men’s soccer regular season, as the Mountaineers finish with a record of 2-9-1 going into the playoffs.
While the regular season hasn’t gone quite as expected, with a playoff game against the Humber Hawks coming up, the team has a chance to keep the season alive.
This potential last game should see the return of third-year midfielder Nicholas Tavares, who is taking the pitch after suffering a grade two shoulder sprain earlier this season.
“[The season] wasn’t as great as anticipated, but the boys battled hard all year,” said Tavares.
“This year was really important to me… I told the guys before the season started that I was done playing soccer, and then I’m playing with my brother, so it’s kind of the perfect way to end my career.”
Christopher Tavares, Nick’s younger brother, is a starting forward for Mohawk in his rookie year.
“For my first year I would have to say that it was tough but as my Mohawk career continues the goals and assists will come easier,” said Chris Tavares.
”It feels amazing playing alongside [my brother] and it helps because he knows my strengths and the things I do well, we have a natural chemistry.”
The brothers keep each other accountable and are making the most of their playing time together no matter the standings.
“The last home game of the season, since I normally wear the armband I gave it to Chris just to show him like I couldn’t do this without you,” said Nick.
“He’s on me, I’m on him, we’re always trying to make each other better.”
With potentially only one game left playing soccer at this level, Nick reminisced on his favourite moments from his Mohawk Career.
“My first year, I scored from a corner kick, it went straight in the net it was my first goal for Mohawk that felt amazing,” said Tavares.
“Then last season I dribbled from like our 50-yard line all the way to the goal line and scored against Redeemer, who is our big rival so that one felt really nice.”
Though Mohawk is the underdog, in win-or-go-home fashion it only takes one good game to win and advance.
Regardless of the outcome, the Tavares brothers are ready to leave it all out on the field, as the Mountaineers get ready to face off against the Hawks this Wednesday, October 16th.
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