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Southside senior midfielder Victor Gonzalez has already surpassed last season’s scoring totals with 13 goals through the first seven games and the Seahawks record has improved as well. He also is a member of the Seahawks track team and qualified for the state meet in the 400 meters and the 4 x 200 relay team. High Five caught up to him before a recent match.

 

1. What is the difference between this team and the one from the spring?

Victor: I think we are more motivated now. It’s basically the same group of players, but our attitudes are a lot better. COVID threw things off for everybody and it was tough to get anything going. We are playing at our normal time of year and working a lot harder.

 

2. You’ve started all four years at Southside. What part of your game has improved the most?

Victor: My vision on the field. I’m more experienced and comfortable controlling the middle of the field. I’ve learned to turn my hips and look to see who is open so we can move the ball faster and get into a good flow on offense. We work on it all the time in practice and it’s become a lot easier.

 

3. What’s the highlight of your soccer career at Southside so far?

Victor: The corner kick in the playoffs against Research Triangle High School my freshman year. We were down 4-3 late in the match and I curled it in from the right side at the south goal near the scoreboard. We ended up losing on penalty kicks, but it came in a big situation to help our team.

 

4. What sports do you follow that you don’t play?

Victor: I like football. The Carolina Panthers are my favorite team. I also enjoyed watching the Olympics. I followed swimming, track and soccer.

 

5. What are your plans after graduation?

Victor: I’ll start at Beaufort County Community College and get my welding certification, then transfer to East Carolina University and hopefully study electrical engineering.