Problems mount for struggling Falcons

The Falcons are off to a rough start this season despite a win and a few ties. The combination of small numbers and lack of veteran players has contributed to the struggles the team is having. 

Veteran players have noticed significant problems so far. 

“There is a lack in focus and drive,” senior forward Sana Ali said. “Players aren’t focused during warmups, which really hurts our momentum in the first half.”

Sophomore midfielder Erin Norris sees a lack of team chemistry as a major issue.

“Each player on the team is talented, but we’re having trouble coming together as a team and showing our potential during games,” Norris said. 

Some players attribute the team’s lack of motivation to the absence of team bonding and closeness. 

“It’s difficult finding a time and date where the whole team can make it to team bonding, especially with Homecoming the last month. But the other captains and I are going to try to implement team bonding every other week or so,” Shah said.

Some teammates blame the formation of cliques occurring within the team. However, senior captain Jennie Werner disagrees.

“Last year’s varsity team was far more ‘clique-y’ than this year,” Werner said. “I think people are trying to blame our lack of success on this clique issue and it’s hindering our ability to address the actual issue at hand: team focus and attitude.”

Despite these issues, the captains are trying to improve the team atmosphere and attitude by giving players encouraging notes before games and more team bonding.

As of Oct. 10, the Falcons held an overall record of 1-2-2 in the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League. Big upcoming games include ones at home against Monta Vista on Oct. 29 and visiting Los Gatos on Halloween afternoon.