AOTW: David Kasimov has lofty goals for his senior soccer season

Ed. Note: Our Bethel male Athlete of the Week feature this week is soccer player David Kasimov, ready to bring the Bees back to the top of the TRC.

Bethel soccer is one of the most storied traditions in the area. Not only do they have one of the longest-tenured head coaches in Ohio with Bob Hamlin, but they are also competitive every season, finishing at or near the top of their conference.

For senior David Kasimov, that feeling of falling just short of winning the Three Rivers Conference title last year still stings. He is using it as motivation for his upcoming senior year.

“Finishing second is probably one of the worst feelings as an athlete,” Kasimov said. “The near miss has fueled my drive even more for my senior year. There’s a strong desire to push harder and be on a different level than everyone else. With hard work and determination, we can definitely bring that title home this upcoming season.”

Looking at what the Bees have coming back this year makes his desire for a league title even more possible.

“I think we have valuable players who are returning this year, which will help keep our tradition alive,” he said. “I believe our team culture is different than other sports in our school. We are very passionate and have a strong desire to win. I put my trust in Coach Hamlin to have new players adapt to our play style and keep our tradition alive.”

Like most talented athletes, Kosimov uses the summer to prepare for what lies ahead. The next two months will be used to not only develop a stronger skillset, but also a time to work on being a quality leader for the Bees.

“My offseason consists of consistent training and club soccer,” he said. “I put in work on and off the field, watching film, training by myself, and working out in the gym.”

“This year, I will be taking more of a leadership role in the team, so I have been working on my leadership skills and trying to help out as much as I can.”

Kasimov hopes his lifelong training in the sport pays off for one more season.

“I have loved soccer since I was a little kid when I started playing at four and haven't stopped since,” he said. “I think my passion for the game is what drives me to become the best. Consistently training and trying to perfect my craft has gotten me much better over the years.”

Kasimov has worked hard on his craft and believes this year is his year. He has one more year with the Bees and wants to leave his legacy with a year to remember.

“I will be the player of the year next year,” he said. “I will do my best to have the best stats and show exceptional skills to everyone.”