Penn Junior Lucas Eshowsky is a member of the Kingsmen Boys Soccer Team. He Has been an impact player for the Kingsmen Varsity as a Sophomore and a Junior.
How did you first get involved in playing soccer, and what inspired you to continue with it through high school?: I started playing when I was very young, I think when I was about 5. I have loved it ever since I started playing.
Can you describe a typical day during the season — from school to practice and everything in between?: I am at school until 3:17 p.m., then I have about an hour at home to do homework. I leave for practice at 4:50, and I usually get home around 8 p.m. Then, I just watch whatever game is on.
What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about that role on the field?: For Penn, I have played many different positions, including center back, outside back, outside mid, and center mid. I mainly play outside back, though. For outside back, I like being able to play defense while still being able to make runs up the side.
What’s been the most memorable game of your high school career so far, and why does it stand out?: My most memorable game of high school is my first game when I was playing JV. We were tied with Homestead the whole game and then in the last four seconds Harris Stipp scored a last-minute goal to win it. It was the first game on the new turf field and we were wearing the new jerseys.
How do you handle pressure during big games or close moments — do you have any routines or mental strategies?: I always lay my full kit out the night before games. I like to listen to music before my games. It doesn’t really matter what kind of music though.
What do you think is the most important quality for a successful team, and does your team have it?: I think everyone needs to be on the same page and give the necessary amount of effort. I think my team has it. We’ve been extremely energetic during games. We just need to be more organized.
Who’s been your biggest influence — a coach, teammate, or even a professional player — and how have they shaped you?: I look up to Lionel Messi. He’s the greatest of all time and I love the way he plays. He is unselfish and is able to make a play out of anything.
How do you balance academics, athletics, and your personal life, especially during a demanding season?: Most of my time is spent playing soccer during the season. I still have to remember to do my school work and make sure to maintain my grades if they start to drop during the season. I hangout with my teammates a lot, which is easy because we all have the same schedule during the season.
Have you faced any setbacks or injuries, and how did you overcome them?: I have never sat a high school game because of an injury, but I have had two club seasons cut short due to injuries. The injuries were my knee and hip flexor. I went to physical therapy for both of them and it was a huge help getting me better for the following season.
What are your goals after high school — do you see soccer being part of your future in college or beyond?: I see soccer being a part of my life but I’m not sure how yet. I will always enjoy playing and watching soccer, but I think I’d rather have the college experience than try to play.
