For the second year, Micheala Gasparri is making a statement in the Naugatuck Valley

League and as a captain of the Woodland Girls Soccer Team. Gasparri aspires to make this team as best as they can be.

“As a senior captain, it is very important to me and the other captains to stay on top of the

rest of the team and their individual responsibilities,” stated Gasparri. “As captain, it is important for me to uplift the team and keep morale high throughout the season.”

Being a part of a competitive sport like soccer, tensions run high. As a captain, it is Gasparri’s job is to uplift her team and help them be as positive as possible.

“To motivate my teammates, I always make sure to have a positive attitude on and off the field,” said Gasparri.

Athletes have many superstitions that affect the way that they play. For Gasparri, there are multiple that she implements to be the player she is.

“I always wear my right sock on my left foot and my left sock on my right foot,” says

 Gasparri. “I also eat salted peanuts before every game.” 

Teams are said to be like families. The more you have gone through together brings you closer. This creates memories that could last a lifetime. 

“My favorite memories of the team have to be winning NVLs my freshman and sophomore year,” said Gasparri. “I also love it anytime we go out as a team before games.” 

Coaches can have a significant impact on an athlete’s life. The advice that they can give you can lead to better gameplay and mental attitudes.

“The best piece of advice that I have gained from my coaches is to be more selfish with the ball.” 

Being captain only comes once in a career for most athletes. But for Gasparri, she is fortunate enough to be captain for a second year.

“I believe I was chosen to be captain because of my ability to perform on the field and my high communication skills along with my leadership,” said Gasparri.

Gasparri plans to continue her soccer career in college at Eastern Connecticut State University.