We as a school have high hopes for Scheck Hillel’s high school soccer team as they try to bring the state championship home for the second time since their victory back in 2016. Currently ranked second in Florida’s 2A class, the Scheck Hillel Lions have improved tremendously as a team. After falling short during the state semifinal as regional champions, the Lions have made significant changes to their lineup in order to maximize their skills.
One of the most thrilling additions to the team is 6’3″ Eric Wainer (CB/CDM/CAM), who will be returning to the Scheck Hillel Lions from Kendall MLS Next Miami Rush. As the captain of the Kendall MLS team, Wainer excels as both a center-back and as a central defensive midfielder.
Eric Wainer is set to join the Scheck Hillel Lions for his senior year, and fans are thrilled to see the dynamic duo of 2022 MVP Wainer and All-County First Team star Adam Waich, who scored 33 goals and 10 assists in just 15 games. These two players will be walking on the field together for the first time in Lions uniforms on the November 4 game versus David Posnack Jewish Day School.
Building on all the excitement, it is confirmed that senior Joel Dejman will be back on the field after a three-year recovery from a back injury. He will be joining senior Max Benarroch to strengthen the team’s defense.
Last season, our team had just two seniors. This year, the Scheck Hillel Lions are expected to have between 10 and 12 seniors on the field, including Daniel Sutton, Daniel Wengrowsky, Isi Waich, and Aquiba Serfati among others. This experienced roster is expected to provide both leadership and skill to every game.
Moreover, captains Eli Fishbach and David Bentolila have mentioned some fundamental shifts in both the Lions’ players and skills from last year to this year that they hope will lead to a state championship win. “We need to focus on every match we are to play, and do not have to look far ahead. Last year, we were too focused on the gains and what we would get if we were to win it all. This year we will focus on one game at a time,” said Fishbach, who emphasized the crucial aspect of focusing on the present rather than looking too far into the future.
“Last year, the constant pressure was exhausting,” Bentolila noted, highlighting the team’s new, improved depth. “This season that will not be a problem because even our substitutes are strong enough to bring home a state championship”.
With their strategic changes and a strong team in place, the Lions are set to make a comeback like never before.
The second half, on the other hand, was a completely different story. The Rams opened the half with a quick touchdown, catching the Lions off guard. Scheck Hillel’s players continued to struggle throughout the second half, ultimately leading to becoming 0-2 on the year.
