PEMBROKE - Pembroke Academy boys soccer coach Peter Bisson believes that, by growing better each game, the Spartans will develop into a Division II contender by the postseason.
Bisson’s coaching philosophy is simple: get better every day.

Bisson has focused on strengthening the weaknesses that come to attention following every game.

Each mistake is accounted for and each missed opportunity is scrutinized.

By fixing the problems at hand, Pembroke Academy is better prepared for the next contest.

“I think we’re doing pretty well. We’re working and progressing towards things and that’s what we wanted to do,” said Bisson.

Following a 1-0 loss to Coe-Brown on Thursday, Sept. 20, the Spartans were 4-3 on the season.
While the record may appear mediocre, it is the improvements since the start of the season that give Bisson hope for the postseason.

“We continue to win, lose or draw, do a little bit better. Each game we get a little bit better. I think that’s one of the good things that we do,” said Bisson.

Indeed, the Spartans had coach has been pleased to see his coaching and their practicing carry over into the actual play of a game.

The transition is helped greatly by strong leadership at the core of the Spartans program.

“My two captains have played well. They’ve both taken on their leadership roles. They’ve definitely stepped up and helped out,” said Bisson.

Shane St. Onge and Kyle Haas have been able to rally their team together. Both players have displayed the qualities that Bisson not only hoped for, but expected.

So far, St. Onge has put forth incredible efforts at midfield for the Spartans this season.

“He’s worked hard. That’s why he’s a captain. He’s real vocal with helping kids out and stuff like that,” said Bisson.

Haas, another vocal leader, has moved in and out of his comfort zone all season in order to help lead defensively.

It is not only Haas’ ability to play anywhere that has impressed Bisson, but also his willingness to move around in the first place.

“He’s done a good job,” said Bisson. “His unselfishness has set a tremendous example for the rest of the guys.”

Looking ahead, the Spartans will need to perform at their best to move further in this year’s postseason.

“We work on our weaknesses and get better each game, building towards the playoffs and the next game and the next game,” said Bisson.

The Spartans’ focus may be their biggest strength.

“We try to focus on ourselves and try to make our team the best. We try to focus on playing our game and not reacting to what other people do, but make them react to us,” said Bisson.