The Thunder Mountain High School Falcons boys soccer team honored their senior players on their home pitch, Falcons Field, prior to their match against the Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé Crimson Bears.
“It is just a great group of kids,” TMHS coach Tim Lewis said of his seniors. “These kids from the senior class missed their freshman year with the pandemic. As far as this group goes, they have probably had some of the biggest moments in TM history in winning state (2021) and coming in second in state (2022). This year hasn’t really gone to plan but they have been great leaders, great examples and just overall an excellent bunch of kids. I think they have passed down something to the next generation so that is all I could ask for. There were a lot of high expectations because the last four years we made it to state. The expectations were high and they had a target on their backs. I think they realized there is more to life than soccer and are able to have some perspective. I appreciate that about them and that is what I try to preach because eventually these guys will be paying my Social Security … but just a great group of kids who have always gotten great grades. I can’t say anything more other than I am really going to miss their leadership and now it is time for the next group to step up.”
Tristan Laremore – striker/midfielder, No. 11.
Favorite food – Teriyaki chicken
Favorite music – Bruno Mars
Other pastimes – Snowboarding
After high school – Go to college, not sure where
Advice to young players/students – Don’t give up during the game.
Matthew Spratt – left back/striker No. 4.
Favorite food – Chicken fried rice
Favorite music – Blxst
Other pastimes – Hike around Juneau and just see the sights
After high school – Attend University of Alaska Southeast, have interest in the medical field.
Advice to young players/students – Just live in the present, don’t stress about the future until it is the present.
Ben Erickson – defense/center midfielder, No. 12.
Favorite food – Hamburgers
Favorite music – I don’t have a favorite
Other pastimes – Hiking outside and doing outdoor activities
After high school – Montana State University to study engineering
Advice to young players/students – Appreciate the time you have and use it while you can.
Stig Cunningham – striker, No. 2.
Favorite food – Whatever my mom makes.
Favorite music – I actually don’t listen to music.
Other pastimes – Swim and dive
After high school – Coach the swim and dive team for TM and JD.
Advice to young players/students – When pain gets hard, you get tougher.
Preston Lam – midfielder, No. 10.
Favorite food – Lasagna
Favorite music – No Stoppin’ by Kalan.frfr featuring Blxst
Other pastimes – Study and do homework
After high school – Continue soccer as a profession
Advice to young players/students – Be a leader on and off the field.
MJ Tupou – left center back, No. 28.
Favorite food – Chicken and rice
Favorite music – Mormon Tabernacle Choir
Other pastimes – I like to play basketball.
After high school – Going on a two year mission to spread the gospel
Advice to young players/students – Do what you love and that’s it.
