Senior Wyatt Gerstenslager was titled player of the month at UC High for his soccer legacy last season. Gerstenslager is in his final year at UC and plays the midfield position for the Boys Varsity Soccer Team. Gerstenslager’s statistics state that last season he scored six goals, and was ranked fourth out of all UC Soccer Boys players.

   Senior Luke Ramirez said, “Wyatt as a teammate is as good as it gets.

As a player, he’s compatible with everyone, is a team player, and puts others before himself.” Ramirez noted that Gerstenslager is not only a scorer player, but is a team player, putting his teammates before himself.

   The UC Varsity Soccer Team has an impressive background, winning 11 out of 19 games in their last season. Gerstenslager said, “One goal is to win our League like we did last year. Another goal of mine is to average under one goal against us in each game.”

   Gerstenslager’s midfield position is no easy feat. Playing midfield means being the support for all the players on the field, keeping the ball with your team, and connecting passes. Gerstenslager said, “I play in the eight or ten [position], in other words, center midfield and attacking midfield. Sometimes, when we are winning, the coach will put me at the six position, which is defensive midfield.”

   Ramirez said, “What makes Wyatt a great player is his ability to adjust to different scenarios, helping the outcome no matter what.” Gerstenslager’s teammates can attest to his ability to adapt depending on the situation on the field.

   Gerstenslager feels that he keeps very consistent with his behavior on the field. Gerstenstenslager said, “I’d say my star quality as a player is my work ethic and consistency on the field. I’m always willing to push myself to get the necessary result, and I never have a bad game.” It is clear that he is a hard worker and is willing to put in a lot of effort to get the desired outcome.

   Gerstenslager said, “I feel great about being player of the month, although there are so many other athletes that deserve it too.” He demonstrates his pride for his title and for other athletes who he recognizes as having talent.

   Gerstenslager said that his family motivates him to want to become a

better soccer player. “My family is the root of my motivation. I really want to make my parents proud and make my last name be known throughout the nation.” His dedication to soccer and his family is apparent.

   He is deeply invested in soccer and mentioned his favorite aspects of the sport. “My favorite part of soccer is the intensity. I love how there are no breaks besides halftime, unlike other sports.” His passion for the sport is shown as he enjoys the game itself as well as the experience.

   A core memory that Gerstenslager and his teammate Ramirez share is winning their League meet last year. Ramirez said, “My best memory with Wyatt was when we won the League last season, playing in the rain against Hoover.”

   The UC Boys Soccer Team has a bright future ahead of them as the season continues. With the help from the player of the month, Wyatt Gerstenslager, as well as his other teammates and coaches, they are sure to make it far.