LYNN — With tryouts wrapping up Monday (rained out Friday), the Lynn English boys soccer team looks to “make some noise” under head coach Valdrim Xhemajli.
Xhemajli has been an assistant since 2018, and replaces Kerry King who decided to step down.
“Soccer has always been a passion of mine, and now coaching has allowed me to share that knowledge and love for the game with others,” said Xhemajli, who graduated English in 2013.
When asked about a team philosophy, Xhemajli was quick to respond, pointing to teamwork, fun, and commitment.
“I think that the more commitment we have, the better we can be as a team,” Xhemajli said. “And we don’t have to be dealing with the nuisance of not being there for one another.”
And the more fun they have playing the game, results will follow, according to Xhemajli.
“I really just want the kids to have fun and love going to practice,” Xhemajli said. “Our goal is to make some noise in the state tournament coming up. I really want to make states.”
Making states is more of an endgame, however. As for how the Bulldogs get there, it all started with this week’s tryouts.
“We’re looking good,” Xhemajli said. “Good group of kids.”
Xhemajli added that last year’s team was good, but young.
“We do have a couple returning guys,” Xhemajli said. “I think they’re more developed and they know the pace of the game.”
Two of those players are captains Danny Lopez and Axel Velasquez, whom Xhemajli can’t wait to watch this fall.
“I think they’re really going to help bring this team to success,” Xhemajli said.
Xhemajli also looks forward to seeing Hamilton Gomez develop, as well as Eddie Romero leading from the back.
“I’m really excited to work with the group of kids that we have,” Xhemajli said.
As for newer players, look no further than Matthew Coelho, who also plays basketball.
“We have a new player, Matthew, who’s really good and is a basketball player, but he’s really good at soccer,” Xhemajli said. “I’m really looking forward to having the team play around him.”
Despite recognizing his team plays in a “tough league,” Xhemajli looks forward to the challenge. Oh, and playing Lynn Classical.
“It’s always the Classical games, you know?” Xhemajli said. “They’ve got a great team and a great coaching staff.”
Xhemajli also gave shoutouts to assistant coaches Peter Pappagianopoulos and Kevin Mills.
“I’m looking forward to working with them all season,” Xhemajli said.
English kicks off its season Tuesday, Sept. 5 against Lynn Tech at Manning Field (3:45 p.m.).
“I’m really looking forward to finding fulfillment and helping players develop their skills and achieve their goals,” Xhemajli said. “I’m hoping to have a good season.”
