MONROE — Matt Bodeau had to wait an extra 7 months to hold his first official practice as Monroe boys soccer coach. A former Cheesemaker, Bodeau has spent the last four years as the program’s junior varsity coach, which means he has plenty of knowledge on the returning players in his program.

That knowledge will go a long way, considering the Cheesemakers were just 3-14 overall a year ago, and 2-5 in the Badger South.

Seven starters graduated from that squad, including the goalie. To make matters worse, this year’s team captain, Nick Newcomer, a junior, is out for the season with an injury. Nine other letterwinners return this year, including fellow captains Jason Carpenter, Sam Tinoco and Luis Torres. 

Torres was an honorable mention all-conference pick last year as a sophomore. He finished second on the team in goals with six. Of Monroe’s 25 goals last season, just 10 return. Alessandro Chagoya, now a sophomore had two goals, while John Reinders, a junior, and Trey Wyss, a sophomore, each had one.

Eleven newcomers enter the squad, including seven freshmen. The team has no seniors.

Jack Carter, a junior, will be the team’s starting goalie. No other positions have been solidified.

“We will be prioritizing communication and teamwork,” Bodeau said. 

Off the ball movement and consistency could be a useful attribute for the team, playing schools much larger with more storied programs puts the Cheesemakers at a disadvantage.

The Cheesemakers open the season at home against Milton March 30. Five of their nine games are at home, including the regular season finale May 3. 

“I have focused on JV during my previous seasons with this team, and at the JV Level, Oregon has consistently been a strong program. I am also optimistic that our program will make an impact this season,” Bodeau said.