The DeKalb Middle School Saints soccer team has been preparing for their upcoming season, playing a couple of preseason games and getting some needed experience under their belts.

On Tuesday, March 1, the Saints traveled to Warren County where they faced some strong competition. DeKalb would end up down 5-0 at halftime, then falling 7-0 at the end of regulation.

Head Coach Justin Nokes reported that despite the loss the team never gave up during the game and responded very well. “They only let two goals in second half against a very strong club.”

The following Thursday, the Saints went back to the drawing board and changed formations, as the team traveled to Upperman to take on the Bees. This game would have a much different outcome.

DMS would coast to a 10-0 victory against Upperman, with all goals coming in the first half and the mercy rule coming in effect.

Juan Ortega, came away with five goals, Adam Johnson had two, and William Blair, Christian Hernandez, and Wade Evans each had one goal.

On Saturday, the Saints hosted their first ever play day, with eight teams playing including Mt. Juliet and Thurman Frances in Smyrna.

“Our team is very balanced,” Coach Nokes said.  “We have a lot of players scoring goals, and a lot of players assisting. The defense, and our goalie Adrian Prater, are holding tight. If you don’t let them score, you’re not going to lose the game. We start with the mentality, ‘Let’s protect our goal first then we’ll try to score.’ It’s worked out for us, so far so good.”

Coach Nokes said that his team is looking good for the new season. “This year we have a very dedicated bunch. We have a lot of newcomers, a lot of 6th graders, that’s coming along. I’m really enjoying their progress. It’s all about getting together and playing as a team. I think we’re doing that.”

The Saints open their regular season on Thursday, March 10, at home against Prescott Middle School.