As the Peters Township High School soccer season heats up, the boys’ varsity team has won big games and produced outstanding individual performances and has their sights set on the WPIAL playoffs. The team has a strong core of senior leadership that provides focus and direction.
Parker Weiss, senior captain of the team, is initiating a season filled with standout performances and crucial wins. Coming off a substantial victory against Norwin, the team has positioned itself as a top contender for the WPIAL title and a potential PIAA championship run. Weiss, who has grown into his leadership role after serving as captain last season, emphasizes a balance between keeping practices competitive and fun.
“I keep practice intense but enjoyable for the guys,” Weiss explained. “During games, I motivate the team by reminding them they’re better than the opposition and hyping them up during warm-ups.”
His leadership has paid off, as the team’s recent 3-0 win over top-ranked Norwin demonstrated their capability to compete at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Weiss has clear goals for the rest of the season.
“Our main goals are winning the WPIAL title and the state championship,” he said. “We push each other to be our best and make sure we fight for each other in every game.”
With the season progressing, Weiss has also become a role model for both his teammates and younger players. Handling the pressure of being captain comes naturally to him now.
“There’s not much pressure anymore since I was captain last year. I’ve grown into the responsibility,” he said. “I’ve also built great relationships with the coaches, which helps me lead the team more effectively. We can have normal, even funny conversations, and they understand me better as both a player and a person.”
As the boys’ soccer team prepares for upcoming games, Weiss’s leadership and the team’s chemistry will be critical in securing their playoff position and making a deep run toward the championship.
Peters Township’s senior goalkeeper, Markus Bizyak reflects on his journey as varsity starter since his sophomore year. As he describes his role he highlights the personal growth and valuable experience gained over the years.
“It has been an honor,” Bizyak says, emphasizing the strong sense of family within the Peters Township soccer team. His accomplishments have been marked by significant development, both on and off the field, as he has navigated the challenges and triumphs of high school soccer.
Bizyak’s connection with his teammates has been a cornerstone of his experience. He notes that the team has grown closer through both victories and defeats.
“We celebrate the wins and the losses which bring us closer together as a team to overcome that struggle,” he said.
Those friendships have been essential in fostering a unified team spirit, which is crucial as the team faces various challenges throughout the season. Looking ahead, Bizyak is particularly excited about the annual rivalry match against Canon-McMillan, known for its competitive nature. “I am most excited to play Canon-McMillan since it’s a rivalry; every year it’s a good game,” he said.
However, he acknowledges that Upper St. Clair presents a significant challenge with their consistently skilled team. Bizyak’s favorite part of high school soccer is the relationships he has built, including the opportunity to play with teammates from three different generations. His drive is fueled by his mother’s support and the motivating presence of his teammate, Parker Weiss. As the season progresses, Bizyak’s leadership and skills will be pivotal in navigating key matches and pushing the team towards playoff success.
