The Women’s Soccer team is preparing to finish the regular season and hoping to get a shot at winning a title. In order to make that happen, the team needs a strategy, mutual trust, and most importantly an excellent coaching staff. We go one-on-one with coach Aron Gentry regarding team captains, mental health, and perhaps whether or not he believes in superstitions.
Coach Aron Gentry and the Coaching Staff
Coach Gentry has been working with the Women’s Soccer as a head coach for three years. He is extremely blessed to have Sarah Sweeney, Natalie Espara, and Diana Genz, the assistant coaches working alongside him. Here is what Gentry had to say about his coaches: “Their role involves supervising athletes during events, ensuring adherence to safety procedures in case of injuries and modeling sportsmanlike behavior.” He says they also aid in the preparation of training sessions and game strategy, contribute to recruiting efforts, and help manage spring training.
Great Soccer Players
As we’re approaching the end of the season, we asked coach Gentry what makes a soccer player great for the team? “What stands out most is their attitude,” said Gentry. He emphasized the importance of talent, but noted he is always searching for players that are coachable, have a strong commitment to growth, and consistently give their all both on and off the field.
Returning Players and Captains
This MATC team has two captains: Hannah Christopherson and Lizzy Calixto. Christopherson is a freshman playing Center Back, and as Coach Gentry puts it, is someone who defines backbone. Her physical presence and ability to understand the game make her a difficult opponent for any Striker, and her calm demeanor under pressure makes her a natural leader. Calixto is a sophomore who plays Forward. Coach says she leads with energy and her ability to motivate teammates with her enthusiasm led to her selection as captain. In the locker room, Calixto is well-liked; she is personable and eager to help others get better.
Motivation and Positivity, On and Off the Field
Whether it’s having a rough game or simply being exhausted, mental health in sports is critical. Coach Gentry says his strategy for the athletes is to: acknowledge emotions, focus on the process rather than the outcome, and develop balance. “When addressing mental health in sports, especially after a tough loss, it’s essential to emphasize resilience, growth, and the bigger picture,” said Gentry.
Ending the Season Strong
The soccer team’s regular season ends on October 19, and the NCJAA regional tournament begins on October 30. We wanted to know how Coach Gentry will ensure his players are prepared when the time comes. “At this point in the teamwork process, it’s crucial to keep in mind that while individual talent matters, the team’s combined strength will be what propels us ahead, having mutual trust and playing off one another,” he said. “The hard work and commitment demonstrated throughout the season must be sustained as consistency in effort, attitude, and execution sets individuals apart,” says Gentry.
Any Coach Gentry Superstitions?
With Halloween quickly approaching, we were curious whether Coach Gentry had any superstitions, like a shattered mirror bringing bad luck. “I am not superstitious at all; I enjoy Halloween tremendously! But I believe hard work and preparation will supersede superstitions!” We’re keeping our fingers crossed for the team.
You can see more pictures from the Stormers game against Triton College on September 25 in the photo gallery below.
