Interclases is a tournament that isn’t just about winning, it is a chance for students to connect with each other, play, have fun and create memories with other people. Students vary their motives to participate, some might want to be successful and win the tournament, and others might just want to have fun. No matter the reason, this brings an exciting environment to school. 

“I think I play a big role in my team because I am an important player since I am one of the few who still plays soccer,” senior Pablo Molina said.

Students focus on winning, but in order to do so, they need to stay calm in games, this is just as important as being good. Molina knows about frustration in games, this can lead players to mistakes and lose control during the games. It is key to maintain a positive mindset to perform better. 

“A challenge we could have is that if we start losing, we might get frustrated and that could make us lose the game,” Molina said.

Molina believes that even though his team might experience challenges, they will overcome them and be successful. For 12th grader,s this tournament is the last time they will be able to play alongside their 12th-grade classmates. He wants to take the most out of this tournament before graduation. 

“Since this is our last year at school, we can bond and create new memories together,” he said.

Some teams want to use the tournament as a way to bring students together. The school spirit and the bonds formed during the games are essential for the students. Manuela Villa, a team captain has a different perspective on her team’s effort.

“For my team, I don’t have high expectations because they are lazy and don’t really care about the game,” Villa said.

She is not confident about her team winning the tournament, her job is to keep her team motivated. She wants them to know that winning isn’t the most important thing, they should enjoy the experience. She wants them to work together, and create relationships for future tournaments or activities. 

“I try to make them see that it’s just a game and we should enjoy it,” Villa said.

Villa believes that interclass has a deeper goal than winning, she believes that it helps to unite the school community. Students come together to watch games and enjoy the atmosphere. Students can cheer their classmates and support them to victory. 

“It really unites high school as a community. Everyone gathers at lunch to watch the games, and it’s exciting to see the support,” Villa said.

Villa thinks about the possibilities the tournament provides, she thinks they can train against tough opponents and help their female team to train for the future. Playing against boys is very different than playing against girls, boys tend to be faster and stronger. She thinks her team will end the tournament in a better form. 

“Playing with the boys helps us get faster because they have better technique. It makes us work harder and pass the ball faster,” Villa said.

Players like Lucas Henao, focus less on winning and more on teamwork. He thinks that a strong team isn’t just about being technical, he thinks connection between the team is key for success. Working well together is just as important as being a great soccer player. 

“Success is about teamwork, having good chemistry with the team, and of course, winning the tournament,” Henao said.

Henao doesn’t consider himself a key player in the team, he knows he can contribute other things in order to be important for the team. He tries to keep everyone motivated and animated. He does this in order to maintain a positive environment.

“I don’t think I’m very important because I can be replaced by anyone. But I bring good energy, keep the team motivated, and make them laugh,” Henao said.

Soccer players aren’t the only students that can have fun, this is a tournament that everyone can enjoy. It is not just about skills. It is about being part of something meaningful. Everyone no matter their abilities can take something from the tournament. 

“I want to get better at soccer and build a stronger bond with my teammates,” Henao said.

No matter their skill level, all players agree that interclass is a special event that brings students together. The tournament isn’t just about sports, it’s about friendships, teamwork, and school pride. Whether they win or lose, the experience itself is what matters most.

“This is a great way to be part of the school community and spend time with other students,” Villa said.