JAYSON CANTRELL-WAGONER
A change in positions has helped make this senior year one of his best according to Wagoner Bulldog soccer captainJayson Cantrell.
“This year I moved from outside back to center back and I think that’s helped me become a better player because I have a good soccer IQ and I’m able to control the defense better than in in the past,” said Cantrell who works with Special Olympics when he has a chance.”
Jayson started playing soccer around the age of eight when some friends were playing and his parents urged him to get into sports.
“I also played football in middle school but found it wasn’t for me,” he explained.
Soccer coach Alan Muehlenweg is certainly glad he chose to stay with soccer.
“Jayson is a very talented player and gifted at winning the ball in challenging places. He’s also very coachable and when one of our coaches is speaking, Jayson soaks it in and immediately applies it. He has a natural ability to problem-solve in game situations and create opportunities for his teammates. He’s also very committed and works to make sure he’s putting in his best performance in every practice and every game.”
As a senior leader, Jayson realizes that it’s important to not only give but also be able to take constructive criticism.
“I think I’m pretty good at giving constructive criticism and not just bashing my teammates. I feel I’m respectful in that regard and not being arrogant just because I’m a senior or a team captain. A good leader has to be able to not only have a positive attitude but be able to take criticism as well as giving it out and not take it personally.”
Jayson credits his mom with being a motivator in his life by being very supportive and always there when he needed her.
This season has been one of close calls for Jayson and the Bulldogs with five of their losses coming by just one goal, but Cantrell is hoping with a few district games yet to play, the Bulldogs can make the playoffs which is one of his goals for the season. Jayson likes to fish and hang with friends in his spare time.
