Chemistry is often a term used in science, meaning that two substances can mix and create a reaction. While many people know this definition, there is a second one that is also used for soccer, and other sports. Many players agree that a team needs chemistry to make plays and for effective communication. Without chemistry you do not have a team or any connections with the players.
Chemistry with a team helps build great passing, talking, and playmaking. One style of soccer that uses these skills is Tiki Taka. Tiki Taka is a style of play that includes passing and shooting with only a couple of teammates. It is a highly effective style of soccer, but to do this well, you need chemistry.
Luis Farias, captain of the varsity soccer team said, “Chemistry is a big part of a team and playing as a team as well.”
Communicating is also a big part of this connection; if you do not communicate well, you will not have a bond with your team to win. Communication is one of the key opponents to making plays happen and not confusing anything with your teammates. Owen Hubbard, left wing for the Cypress Creek Coyotes soccer team said, “We need communication to help keep our teammates alert and to tell them what they cannot see.”
One player that uses communication most is the keeper, as they need to control their back line, or defense, and they can view the whole field. If you are on a new team, it may be harder to have chemistry, as you do not know them. An old team, on the other hand, may have some of the best chemistry and can play well together.
Building chemistry off the field is equally as important as on the field. To build chemistry, you need to know your teammates, and must spend time together with them like at a restaurant, theme park, or even just playing video games.
The Cypress Creek Coyotes had a history of chemistry, as many of the players from last year’s JV team were on this year’s varsity team, so it stuck with them. One way the Coyotes helped foster this chemistry was by going to a restaurant as a team to get to know each other better.
The players all believe that their chemistry helped them play stronger together as they ended the season with a record of 10-5 and made an appearance in the district finals. Many players credit their success to the chemistry they have as a team.
Max Laframboise, another varsity captain said, “Without chemistry you won’t have a team that plays well.”
