Geneva’s Gabe Barwiolek Takes Lead in Soccer Season Opener

Senior forward Gabe Barwiolek faced the challenge of becoming Geneva’s primary scorer following heavy roster changes. Last season’s standout players, Caleb Kelly and Ben Murphy, contributed 39 goals for the Vikings. As a prominent returnee with six goals, Barwiolek felt the urgency to elevate his game.

“I don’t feel pressure,” Barwiolek stated. “I know I need to have high expectations for myself, and I didn’t reach that last year. This is the year.” Blake Hughes, in his debut year as Geneva’s coach, witnessed Barwiolek’s potential on Thursday. Barwiolek quickly scored in the season opener against Waubonsie Valley and later secured a penalty kick in the second half, leading to a 2-1 nonconference win for Geneva.

Yasser Gomez was the scorer for Waubonsie (0-2), celebrating the opening of Dick Kerner Stadium. Barwiolek’s performance wasn’t unexpected for Hughes, who anticipates Barwiolek being key to Geneva’s success. “He’s fantastic,” Hughes commented. “Training overseas in Spain has prepared him well for us. He’s going to shine for Geneva soccer this year. Without him, we’re a weaker team. It’s really fantastic to have him.”

Three minutes into the game, a free kick resulted in a header, providing Barwiolek the chance to score. He took swift action. “I saw a header and saw it land by my feet and I just heard ‘shoot,’ so I shot it with my left foot and it went in,” Barwiolek recalled. “It felt amazing.” Waubonsie caught up at the 30:45 mark in the first half as Gomez made a crucial connection near the goal.

“He’s all over the place,” Waubonsie coach Jose Garcia noted. “He’s an Energizer Bunny with good ball control. He’s a target for us.”

Garcia ensures Gomez gets the ball, as his understanding of movement and striking is an asset to the team. With 28:39 remaining in the second half, a foul in the box led to Barwiolek’s decisive penalty kick. Hughes expects Barwiolek to continue delivering such performances.

Hughes expressed admiration, highlighting Barwiolek’s soccer skills. “He’s so technically savvy on the ball, receiving and anticipating pressure,” Hughes remarked. “He moves efficiently and makes smart decisions with the ball.”

Barwiolek’s participation in the Soccer Dreams Travel Pro Tour allowed him to train in Spain this summer, competing against global talent. “It felt amazing, just getting that experience,” Barwiolek shared. “Having done similar things in my youth, this was unforgettable.”

Geneva (1-0) kept the momentum going. Hughes is relying on Barwiolek to lead Geneva’s season with his striking abilities. “They scored over 70 goals in 24 games last year. He needs to hit 25 for us to succeed,” Hughes emphasized. “Our team is mostly sophomores.”

Paul Johnson contributes as a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.