Benjamin Barker is new to Lake Region soccer this season, playing for the first time since fifth grade.

And as a junior, Ben is making an impression.

“Ben had a great summer season getting some valuable reps. He started off on the junior varsity at the beginning of the season and now swings up for the varsity games,” Lake Region Coach Ryan Harlow said. “Ben is a very positive kid and always lets his work ethic speak for itself.”

What Ben has brought to the team the most is his determination to make others around him better.

“As coaches, we can’t express enough how much Ben has risen to the challenge,” Coach Harlow added. 

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Ben is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

Player Profile

Athlete: Ben Barker

Town: Bridgton 

Parents: Rachel Barker and Tony Barker

Hobbies: Soccer, snowboarding

Favorite Athlete: My favorite athlete is Ronaldinho Gaúcho. He inspired me with his world-class control of the ball and dribbling skills to join and pursue the sport.

What are three key elements to be successful in your sport? Three important elements to have under your belt to be a successful soccer player would include communicating respectfully with your team, good sportsmanship with your team and others, and lastly always knowing that you can improve your abilities and technique and that the only way you can improve is by consistent and driven practice.

What is your goal(s) this season, and how do you reach them? My goal this season is to make playoffs with my team.

What is the most difficult aspect of your sport? The most difficult aspect of soccer is team communication, as it often slips people’s minds when in high pressure situations.

Finish this line, “It’s been a good sports day if…” you remembered your water bottle.

How has sports helped in your development as a person? Sports have helped me develop discipline and critical thinking in times of stress.

What lesson have you learned from a coach or teammate that you will long remember? My coach has taught me not to hang my head and give up because of simply minor inconveniences and to stay focused on maintaining concentration and awareness on the more important things that you can do to help people or yourself regain control over the situation.