The Saint Louis Crusaders Soccer Team kicked off their pre-season with a trip to the island of Kauai. 

The initial purpose of the outer island trip was to “allow players to get to know their teammates,” explained Assistant Soccer Coach Rob Woods, “especially younger players that the older players aren’t familiar with.” 

In addition to team bonding, the trip also provided additional benefits to the Crusader coaching staff, with an opportunity “for the coaches to build relationships with players to become more comfortable with the style of coaching and communication both verbal and non-verbal,” notes Woods.

Returning athlete Christopher Choy recognized how playing outer island teams is much different than here on Oahu.  “The biggest surprise was that the Kauai players were a lot bigger than people on Oahu because I guess country boys are big,” said Choy.

In his first year as a varsity player, Cachola noticed the team’s dynamic change throughout the trip.  “It changed the dynamic because staying together in that room forced us to hang out with each other,” explained Cachola, “and we got closer with each other just by hanging out and talking and listening to music.” 

Cachola quickly recognized how the trip bonded the team both personally and athletically. “I think it’s going to change the way that we play because when we play teams where it’s going to require talking, it’ll be easier.”

This trip was very beneficial for the team and the coaching staff.  “From the coach’s viewpoint, we were able to identify specific skills of each player,” said Woods.