Change is in the air for Mount Carmel Caravan soccer as players have had to adjust to a new coaching style for the season. New head coach Ross LaBauex and assistant coach Jonah NunoSheldon are both emphasizing discipline, consistency, and academic success, aiming for all players to maintain a team GPA of over 3.0 while preparing for collegiate-level challenges. Their approach has combined tactical changes with efforts to boost morale and build resilience, both on and off the field.
The soccer team is navigating the transition from their previous coach, Mr. Antonio Godinez, who was known for a more intense, rule-driven approach. Players have noticed differences in style, formation, and personal connection with the new coaches, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for growth this season.
“The biggest inspiration would just be being able to constantly be a part of the game,” Coach NunoSheldon said. “Even when I wasn’t playing, I was either playing or coaching, and it has been a humongous part of my life.”
Mount Carmel has a history of competitive soccer, often facing strong public and Catholic school teams in the region. Coach Godinez focused on strict discipline and a traditional 4-2-4 formation, while the new coach favors a 4-3-3 formation and a bold, transitional style. He emphasizes fast transitions, maintaining shape after losing possession, and creating opportunities to attack efficiently.
Junior Mateo Sanchez praised the coaches ability to build confidence and encourage teamwork.
“He just tells us a goal, full intensity, and playing like how you would in the game,” Sanchez said. “It’s more effective for the players.”
Junior Miguel Canchola appreciates the freedom under the new system.
“He lets us play more freely and do whatever we want on the field,” he said.
Both players have recognized the potential for success if the team unites and improves morale. Team goals focus on state competition, with both coaches and players aiming for high performance.
“The coach, he only has one goal and that’s going downstate,” Sanchez said. “He says if we do that, we’ll have a pretty successful season and he’ll be proud of us.”
Injuries and inconsistent weeks have presented obstacles, but Caravan soccer emphasizes learning from losses and keeping all players involved, even when they are unable to play.
“When you lose, you’re able to learn,” Coach NunoSheldon said. “It’s super important to get the morale up and make sure every player, even injured ones, stay part of the team.”
With the new coaches, training exercises now highlight passing patterns, transitional play, and calmness in attack.
“He likes us to do more passing patterns and stuff,” said Canchola, noting the difference from past seasons.
Off the field, the coaches emphasize team-building activities and positive talk. This helps with establishing chemistry within the team.
“He encourages teamwork by positive talk,” Sanchez said. “He catches negative talk and tells us to be more positive because that brings the team closer together.”
These efforts have helped the players feel more united as the season progresses.
“Enjoying the journey of each game, each practice, each day is the biggest aspect when coming into any program,” Coach NunoSheldon said, encouraging players and fans alike to focus on growth and teamwork throughout the season.
