Mavs have a solid core heading into 2022

March 16, 2022 by Ken Leinart

Anderson County High School’s soccer team has a lot of potential.

Head Coach Chris Curtin said, “They (the players) have the passing skills for maintaining possession and closing the deal, but you still have to put the ball in the back of the net.”

Like any other endeavor in life, nothing is given, but the Mavs have the talent.

“Each game presents its own opportunity to learn about your team and yourself,” Curtain said.

This is the coach’s first year at the helm of the boys program but he’s familiar with the team. He’s coached the Lady Mavs soccer team for a number of years.

There are five seniors on the roster for Curtain. He said they have invested in the team and are trying to help the younger guys, “as players and young men.”

The Mav team, in other words, is tight and they have a proven soccer coach.

“Overall, we’re always working on the different elements of the game,” Curtain said.

The Mavs are strong in the three areas — defense, midfield, and the “attack” phase — of the game.

And Curtain likes to move the ball, to pass, rather than kick and run to the ball.

He has a solid cast to work with, especially with twins Blake and Kaleb Livingston. “They’re speedy and I’m excited about seeing what they can do in a game situation.”

Another player to look out for is Filp Balaz. “Filip is a player who you’re going hear a lot about,” Curtain said.

The Mavs had a big freshman class last year and those kids are sophomores now. Experienced sophomores.

One of those sophomores is Kalen Weathrington, who’ll man goal for the Mavs. If the name is familiar it’s because his sister, Alyssa, was keeper for the Lady Mavs during their sectional run last fall.

“I think it’s a family business,” Curtain said with a chuckle.

“He’s a seasoned goal keeper. He’s good.”

In front of Weatherington anchoring a solid Mav defense will be Blake Livingston and Martin Lechuga.

“I feel strong about our various positions,” Curtain said. “And I feel like we have a good mix of seniors and underclassmen.”

The Mavs have 16 on the roster, so there aren’t a lot of bodies. Curtain said, however, he has no problem playing any of those 16.”

And playing at Anderson County is a bonus.

“We try to make it an experience. We have hot food at home games because the games are a little early so if you want to grab dinner before the game …

“That’s the difference between playing for your school and playing at the club level. You get to show your friends how good you can be,” Curtain said. “We try to make each game an experience.”

It helps that have the Jumbotron at ACHS as well.

“Oh yeah, that’s huge,” Curtain said with a laugh.

Anderson County is still ironing out its non-district schedule. As of now the Mavs are schedule to open the season April 12 hosting Scott High. That schedule is likely to change.