Among the teams that have begun summer practices at Sedona Red Rock High School is the boys soccer team. The Scorpions started their practices on Monday, June 15. This year’s summer practices are a little unusual when compared to recent years, and for more than just COVID-19 changes.
The SRRHS team is adhering to the restrictions implemented by the Arizona Interscholastic Association that were put in place to prevent the spread of the virus, including fewer players in practices and having to disinfect the equipment before and after use. Additionally, for the first time in many years, the Scorpions are preparing for a soccer season in the fall instead of the winter.
That opens the door for basketball players to now play soccer, as well. Additionally, with football no longer being offered at the school, the number of players who might play soccer grows even greater. The first two days of practice drew a total of 13 players, with seven on Monday and six on Tuesday. Coach Sam Blom noted that while the early numbers have been limited, he expects to have a deep group of players.
“The players are glad to be playing soccer again and seeing their teammates,” Blom said. “Since it’s still a new schedule and some players are working or out of town, I haven’t seen all the possible players. I expect between 20 and 25 or more. So I may have tryouts because I only want to have 20.”
With the new AIA regulations, the Scorpions can have no more than 10 players on the field at a time. That limits how realistic the scenarios worked on in practice will be.
“I’m hoping the AIA will revise existing guidelines sooner than later,” Blom said. “Not having more than 10 players makes it difficult as it’s not too much fun playing 3 versus 3.”
There are some advantages that come with the smaller groups though. Blom noted that having to focus on only six or seven players at a time gives him more time to evaluate and help each individual player.
A season ago, Sedona was a young team comprised mostly of underclassmen who were limited in their varsity experience. As a result, while the Scorpions showed moments of promise, the overall season was a struggle, as they won only two games in the year.
The summer practices are still just getting going. But through the opening days, Blom has been encouraged by the talent that he’s seen on the field.
“I see a lot of young talent so far from the 13 that have attended these last two days,” Blom said. “Having veterans back like Jaiah Grondin — a senior who was on the team two years ago [who played basketball last year] — and juniors Kevin Castaneda and Brandon Arias makes practices go smoothly as they have the experience and leadership.”
“The competition for 20 spots on the team is a problem I enjoy,” he added. “This may be the most exciting year for me as head coach.”
