Hodgdon/GHCA boys soccer team misses tourney for second year

By Gloria Austin
Staff Writer
    The Hodgdon/GHCA boys soccer team finished just shy of a playoff spot for the second year in a row.
    “I was pretty disappointed,” said Coach Mark Morin. “It just goes to show you how important each win is.”
    The Hodgdon/GHCA boys started slowly, according to Morin, but picked up some big wins, including a contest at Limestone/MSSM, which Morin called “our best game of the year,” along with staying close to the Eagles in a home game.
    “We played close to Southern Aroostook in Dyer Brook and the Houlton game was even close in the first half,” Morin added. “I feel if we could play with Houlton then our wins and losses did not truly reflect the caliber of our team.”
    Morin said that his team battled several hurdles this season from injuries to lack of commitment and teamwork.
    “I had some key games that kids did not attend for one reason or another. As a coach this is very frustrating,” he said. “One of the biggest problems that I had this year was team chemistry. As a coach, I think this was my fault. I need to work harder next year to focus some attention on team chemistry. If a team can’t play well together then they can’t win together.
    “My goal is to make us one team next year and not a bunch of individuals,” he added.
    The Hodgdon/GHCA boys played more of a Class D schedule even though they are ranked in Class C.
    “I see continuing to play [that type] of schedule as a problem,” Morin explained. “Hopefully, next year we will be able to play in Class D even if we still combine with GHCA.”
    Morin has reflected over the last two seasons and is contemplating “serious changes” even though he is losing key players.
    “I am gaining a few really good prospects in the freshman class and I have no doubt in my mind that we will be very strong next year,” Morin said, “and finally get over the hurdle and make the playoffs.”