Athlete of the Week: Kasparas Jasenauskas

Athletes strive for redemption when they make a mistake or a break doesn’t go their way.  senior forward Kasparas Jasenauskas felt that after hitting the goal post on a penalty kick early in the first half against Richards on Tuesday. 

“I don’t get to take PKs (penalty kicks) a lot, and I was disappointed and the coaches were disappointed,” he said. “I wanted that one back.” 

He got his redemption late in the first half when he received a pass from freshman Teodor Trifunowski deep in Richards territory after a blocked shot from Connor Cunningham caromed off the goalie. He scored in the 28th minute and that was all would need as they defeated Richards 3-0. 

He also added a second goal late in the second half, weaving his way around the defenders before putting in the final goal for the Indians. The Indians’ postseason hopes — which are quite lofty — will rest on Jasenauskas and the rest of the veteran leadership. He is ’s Athlete of the Week. 

How long have you been playing soccer? “I’ve been playing since I was 8. My dad got me into the game.”

Which aspect of your game have you improved on the most since you started? “My effort, I guess. I’ve been working on that since I started at .”

Are there any other sports you enjoy? “I also run track. I run the 400 meters and the 300 meter hurdles.”

Any ambitions about college? “I want to play soccer in college, but I don’t know if I’m good enough right now to make it.” 

Is there a team or player your root for? “I root for the Chicago Fire, of course. I also like Barcelona because they are the best in the world. I like Lionel Messi as a player.” 

Final question … you’ve made it to supersectionals two years in a row and lost to Notre Dame two years in a row. What makes this year different? “We just have to have full effort and never give up. Our main priority right now is thinking we can beat them and then going out there and doing it.”