West Orange Times & Observer: Sports Spotlight — Javier Perez

Legacy Charter freshman Javier Perez is in his first year with the Eagles’ boys soccer team, and he’s already playing a key role for head coach David Hill’s side. At center midfield, Perez leads the team in goals and helps control possession for the Eagles.

When did you first get into soccer?

When I was 5, I started playing for the YMCA. My father really pushed me into it — I didn’t like it at first — but it got me to really get interested in it.

What has kept you playing soccer through the years?

Just seeing myself improve over the years. I have confidence in myself to keep on improving every day — every single time I come out onto the field.

This is your first year on the team. What’s that been like?

I like it. I play travel soccer as well, so the skill level — there is obviously a difference, but this team definitely has more heart than I have seen on any travel team.

What is the most challenging aspect of joining a varsity team as a freshman?

Obviously in high school, there are a lot of bigger guys — muscular guys — and trying to really control the game. It’s more difficult.

What is your favorite part about playing in the midfield?

I really enjoy being the playmaker — distributing the ball everywhere around the field. I love doing that — being the main role in the midfield.

What is the hardest part about playing in the midfield?

Playing against a team that has a similar player to me. Trying to find out their weaknesses and play against their weaknesses.

Coming into this season, did you have any goals in mind that you wanted to accomplish?

I definitely want to have a successful season, but I wanted to have that goal of being able to control the game at the high school level.

Was there anything specifically that you wanted to work on during this new season?

My fitness. My travel team — they’ve given us a break for the high school players — and I sort of use this time to benefit myself going back into the season.

Has there been a highlight moment for you so far during this season?

My teammates. They enjoy it and have a fun, and it goes back to them having a lot of heart. I’ve definitely seen the difference in that, compared to other teams.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in yourself since you first started playing soccer?

Confidence. When I was younger, I used to come on the field and worry about winning the game or losing the game. Now I come onto the field, and I know I’m going to control the game.

What is your routine like on a game day?

I try to set myself into a successful mindset. Stretching is also an important thing to me before a game. I have injured myself a few times due to not stretching before a game, so I keep that at the top of my head when I’m coming onto the field — whether that be a game or a practice.