Feature Photo by: Melanie Vazquez – Senior captain Juan Chavez dribbles the ball in a scrimmage against Grandview. The first official game of the season is today at 4:30 at Arapahoe High School. 

A new school year has just started and while students are adjusting to new classes, Rangeview athletes are also preparing for the fall sports season.

For boys soccer, practice started on the first day of school. Since then, the team has been working on strengthening its defense and shaping its offense.

The varsity team this year consists of many new players, including senior Langston Smith.

Smith commented, “We lost a solid senior core coming into this year, but I think the new guys, including me, will be able to step up to the plate and deliver.”

With only six returning varsity players, the team is almost completely different.

Last Saturday, the team scrimmaged against Doherty High School, winning 5-0, and Arvada West High School, winning 3-2. This past Tuesday, the team tied 2-2 in a scrimmage against Grandview High School.

Regarding the scrimmages, head coach Vic Strouse said, “They were the best team on the field in all the scrimmages this last week… so that’s an encouraging sign.”

Their first game is today at Arapahoe High School at 4:30. Last year, the varsity team lost 3-4 to Arapahoe in the second round of playoffs, ending the season. Now, the boys are ready to face them again.

Senior captain Luis Cervantes said, “I’m nervous … but also excited at the same time because we have improved as a team, especially with the new players.”

Be sure to click the link below to stay updated on game dates and scores: http://www.maxpreps.com/high-schools/rangeview-raiders-(aurora,co)/soccer/home.htm