By Sean Farrell / NorthJersey.com. 
Coaches love them. Teammates look up to them. But the box score doesn’t always do them justice.
These are the North Jersey boys soccer players from the NJIC who win games beyond just scoring. They’re the ones who fight for 50/50 balls, set an example at practice and take on new roles for the good of the team
Daniel Fonseca
Lodi senior
Fonseca is a rare three-year captain who’s earned praise for his work on the field and in the classroom as a straight A student. Coach Mark Fritsch has used him everywhere from left back to forward and feels convinced he could excel in goal if called on upon. These days, Fonseca is a defensive mid who’s relied on to control the game for a team with only three senior starters.
“Everything we want to do offensively runs through Daniel,” Fritsch said. “He has speed, the ability to use both feet, and just an all around great soccer IQ.
Eddy Marte
Bogota senior
Marte will be hard to replace as a centerback and four-year starter for Bogota. The Bucs have a small and inexperienced roster with 18 players, and the ball is often played in their end.
“As a coach, it is refreshing to know our goal is secured by a dependable and hard-working player like Eddy,” coach Samantha Smith said. “He holds other players accountable, is a great communicator, and will be remembered for how tough he is on the field.”
Sal Penna
Becton senior
The Wildcats centerback brings experience and an aggressive style to the back row as a three-year starter. One of the top students in his class, Penna has taken on a leadership role for Becton.
“He doesn’t have the stats or flashy play, but he’s a huge help,” coach Mike Furino said.
David Reyes
Manchester senior
The Falcons are on pace for their first winning season in more than a decade with Reyes providing smart two-way play. He has three goals and three assists this year as a team captain and centerback. Off the field, he’s an officer for the National Honor Society, the president of the Science Club and a volunteer for the Prospect Park youth soccer program.
“His demonstration of good character and responsibility is among the best I have ever seen or been around,” coach Daniel Sanchez said.
Owen Witt
Rutherford senior
Witt has shown some versatility this year, moving from his traditional spot in the midfield to a hybrid role at left back and centerback. Quietly, he’s gone about his business and solidified the defense core. He’s currently the oldest of two Witts on the team – sophomore brother Ryan is making his varsity debut.
“Owen has been gritty and relentless this season,” coach John Randazzo said. “He’s been an absolute rock in the back.”
