Turlock Christian High suffered through a long run last year, failing to win a single match in regular season play. The Eagles hope 2012 will produce a different narrative, one which includes victories and cements a foundation for future success.

“I’m more optimistic about this season than I have been in the past,” TC’s head coach Joel Thomazin said.

Much of that optimism is rooted in a sense of trust between Thomazin and his veteran players. Seniors Jeremy Hollis and Alex Beam have been at the varsity level with Thomazin for four years, gaining a level of experience along the way to make the Eagles’ head coach comfortable with them running practice in his absence.

“I trust their judgment and ability to work with their teammates,” Thomazin said.

Hollis and Beam are joined by Eric Amaya and newcomer Zach Jordan; the core of this season’s team.

“We’re trying to build a solid team and all around program,” Thomazin said. “We want to generate excitement about soccer at TC.”

Part of the program development has included a summer strength and conditioning program which not only helped shape Thomazin’s players physically, but also instilled interest in the sport amongst new players. The effects of the summer regime have already been seen in TC’s ability to attack and score during the course of its preseason schedule. It remains to be seen if the Eagles can parlay their extra work into real time success in the Southern Athletic League this year but they’ll get the chance to find out soon when they host Gustine High on Sept. 10 in the SAL season opener.