Kicking it with Bremerton High School boys soccer captain Matt Olson

Grade: Senior

Age: 18

High School: Bremerton

Team: Bremerton High School boys soccer

With quick feet and the ability to finish scoring opportunities, Matt Olson has emerged as one of the premier players in the Olympic League the past two seasons.

The 18-year-old senior scored a league-best 23 goals to go with 11 assists as a forward in 2009. Olson shifted from forward to midfield this season, a move aimed at solidifying the Knights in the middle-third of the field.

With eight goals, Olson also is one of the team leaders in assists. His contributions were enough to lead the Knights to the playoffs for the second time in as many seasons.

Bremerton defeated Olympic High School 1-0 Tuesday at Silverdale Stadium to improve to 9-2-3 overall and 8-1-1 in the league entering the regular-season finale Thursday against undefeated North Kitsap High School.

We caught up with Olson following Tuesday’s game, asking about his role as team captain.

Here’s what he had to say:

Q: How long have you been a team captain?

A: One season

Q: What do you like most about the role?

A: Knowing that I am one of the leaders on the team and that people look up to me.

Q: What are the biggest challenges?

A: Not letting the team down, that’s the biggest thing.

Q: What have you learned?

A: It’s about the team. It’s being a leader, bringing them up for the challenges.

Q: Do you ever feel pressure?

A: No. For me, I don’t really feel any pressure at all.

Q: What are your hobbies away from soccer?

A: Hanging out with friends and my girlfriend and watching movies.

Q: What’s your favorite class?

A: Accounting. That’s what I’m going to study next year.

Q: And what are your plans for next year?

A: Going to Saint Martin’s University and playing soccer. I will be roommates with the other captain, Eli (Chastain).

Q: What’s playing on your iPod?

A: R&B and rap.

Contact Bremerton Patriot Sports writer Wesley Remmer at wremmer@bremertonpatriot.com or (360) 308-9161.

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