The Belmont boys’ soccer team has made notable strides this season, surpassing last year’s total of six wins with a current record of 8-1-2 after eleven games. The Marauders’ improved performance is attributed to a stronger roster, enhanced discipline, and a more physical style of play.
Key additions include senior midfielder Yassin Abdelazim, standing 6-foot-4, who returned to the team after competing in the MLS NEXT program with New England Futbol Club’s (NEFC) U-17 squad. Sophomore defender Yuto Yashiro, another former NEFC player, has also contributed to the team’s depth. Head coach Chris Camille emphasized the impact of experienced leadership, stating that Abdelazim’s presence has been invaluable.
Belmont’s offense is led by senior captain Itai Golani, who has tallied five goals and ten assists, and junior Robert Hoerle, who has scored eight goals. Abdelazim anchors the defense, combining physicality and intensity to shape the team’s high-pressing approach. The Marauders remained unbeaten through their first nine games, registering 1-1 draws against Arlington and Wakefield, before a 2-0 loss to Concord-Carlisle. They maintain a strong plus-18 goal differential.
Reflecting on the team’s progress, Hoerle noted the hard work carried over from the previous season despite low turnout. “Bringing that into this year, while working even harder, it feels great to have won this many games,” he said.
Abdelazim’s return to high school soccer came after a challenging decision, as MLS NEXT participation normally precludes players from competing on their high school teams. He chose to rejoin Belmont shortly before tryouts, motivated by a shared ambition with his teammates to win the state championship. “We all decided to put it all into Belmont, put it all into the program,” he explained.
MLS NEXT, founded in 2020, operates as a for-profit club program seeking to cultivate future American soccer talent. While offering enhanced pathways to college and professional play, it often requires players to forego the traditional high school soccer experience. Abdelazim credits his Belmont teammates for understanding his commitment to both personal and team goals.
Stylistically, Abdelazim highlighted differences between club and high school soccer. Club play, he said, tends to be more methodical and precise, influenced by a possession-based philosophy. In contrast, high school soccer demands greater physicality and intensity, traits embodied by Belmont’s style. This approach was evident in the team’s 4-0 Middlesex League victory over Woburn on October 1, where they maintained relentless pressure and control throughout the match.
Coach Camille seeks to dictate the pace of games from kickoff, relying on Abdelazim’s vocal leadership to organize teammates and maintain discipline on the field. “School is where you are the whole day. It’s where you have friends. It’s where you live. It’s your town. And you want to be able to support and represent your town,” Abdelazim said, underscoring the pride fueling the team’s efforts this season.