Five Williston students have been recruited to play on the “Black Rock FC” team created by the NEPSAC, containing all the best players in the league. The team is designed to practice throughout the whole year, competing at college showcases against higher-level opponents.

“We believe in developing players with good character and strong values,” the company’s website stated. “Beyond the field, our players are committed to excellence in the classroom and throughout their school communities.”

It added, “Over the years team members have consistently earned some of the highest leadership positions and honors at their respective schools.”

The five students selected for the team from Williston were Matthew Moreno ’21, Jonathan Edwards ’20, and Jake Goodman, Wyatt Wegrzyn, and Cory Booth, all class of 2019.

The Williston players selected currently play for the Northeast region, practicing every Friday with games on Sunday at the Danbury Sports Dome in Connecticut.

Cory Booth ’19 came to Williston last year with the intention of playing soccer, and is enjoying being a part of the new team.

“It is more professional, and I enjoy playing with better players because I feel like it makes me better,” he said.

He did note that there were challenges, but overall believes it’s a good program.

“It’s a hassle to get there but I’m enjoying it and I think they make it a lot easier to get in to colleges.”

Junior Jake Goodman is also excited about the team.

“Black Rock has been amazing so far. It’s so good to be playing with the best players in New England as well as my other Williston teammates.”

He expressed concerns similar to Cory’s.

“It is quite the hassle traveling nearly an hour for a couple of 7v7 matches,” Jake said. “However, I think it’s totally worth it in the end. Training for track season is tough because I don’t have many days off. I would say I get a day off once a month, but it gives me a lot of college exposure and a good level of soccer.”

Jake said the added activity has taught him to manage his time well. He also noted that the level of skill the other players have is intimidating.

“It’s interesting,” he said, “you get to learn from the best and I think that’s really good, but it’s also difficult because I don’t have as much experience as the other players.”

Williston’s Matthew Moreno ’21 is the youngest player on the team.

“Honestly I don’t feel that affected when it comes down to being [one of] the younger guys. There’s like four other freshmen in the entire program so I don’t feel out of place.”

He doesn’t let his age stop him, though.

“I’m really enjoying it. The quality of play is extremely demanding, and it forces you to improve your game.”