Soccer team struggles to regain its footing

By Edgar Riano-Muro

After more than a decade, the Pamlico soccer program made its return in 2023. Now in its third season, the team continues to search for consistency and results, which, according to the team, has been hard to find.

East Carteret takes the ball toward their goal, with Pamlico following behind. Photo Credit: Taquan Scott

The program has gone through a different head coach each of the last three years and has managed only one win in that time. Constant leadership changes, combined with limited success on the field, have left players looking for answers. 

To get more insight, The Black and Gold spoke with some of the players.

Players on the sidelines look on in frustration. Photo Credit: Taquan Scott

When asked, “What are some problems with the team this year?” left wing Percy Guidry said, “The team is very unorganized and could be a lot better.”

Manuel Benard-Zavala, a right midfielder, was more direct, saying, “We’re not serious.” 

Team members listen in as coach lays out a game plan. Photo Credit: Taquan Scott

Players also pointed out clear differences between this year's coach and last year's coach. Guidry said the tactics and formations have changed and the approach is “more student-led.” Striker Luis Alvarez noted last year's workouts “were harder and more physical,” suggesting a shift in both style and intensity.

When asked what the team is doing right, Guidry acknowledged individual effort but said it has not been enough to create team success. “There are individuals that do stuff right, but nothing as a whole team. We have effort, but the people who try get outweighed by the people who don’t try.”

Striker Luis Alvarez hydrates mid-game. Photo Credit: Taquan Scott

Looking ahead, players offered ideas for improvement.

Guidry says they need to work on communication, run more passing drills, and focus more during practice. “At practice we need to listen more, and people don't need to do their own thing.” Bernerd-Zavala said the team needs “a better mindset.”Alvarez remains hopeful, saying, “Next year we’re going to have more talent.”

Coach Rod keeps an eye on the field. Photo Credit: Taquan Scott

In 2026, the soccer program is searching for the same things it was when it first came back: effort, consistency, and results. The athletes are there. The effort shows up in pieces. But putting it all together seems to be the hard part. After going 0 -14 in year one, 1-15 last year, and starting this season 0 - 8, the question is: will anything change? Will the program finally turn things around, or will the same struggles continue? Only time will tell.