Sports Spotlight - West Orange Times & Observer: Gabriel Ferraz

The Foundation Academy middle-school boys soccer team got strong play all season from its goalkeeper, Gabriel Ferraz — a first-year player. In recent games against The First Academy and Trinity Prep, Ferraz recorded a combined eight saves to help the Lions to a victory and a tie, respectively.

So how did you enjoy your first season on the soccer team?

It was pretty fun to play over here (at Foundation) and have my first experience.

What do you like about playing goalkeeper?

It’s pretty fun. I just like being in between the sticks and saving goals for my team.

Of which of the team’s wins this season are you the most proud?

Probably Windermere Prep or Lake Mary because we won by a big result, and that’s where I saved most of my goals.

What’s the best advice you have received about playing the goalkeeper position?

From coach (Joshua Mansingh) to always stay focused and to always keep my head up when we’re losing.

What is your favorite soccer team and who are your favorite soccer players?

(FC) Bayern Munich is my favorite team, from Germany. My favorite player would probably be (Manuel) Neuer or (Robert) Lewandowski.

What is your favorite subject in school and why?

History. I just like geography and all that stuff.

What do you think you might like to be when you grow up?

A soccer player or probably a teacher.

Where are you from originally?

I was born here, but my parents are from Brazil and Africa.