The varsity roster is not often a freshman’s proving ground. For most players, the transition from middle school soccer to the intensity of high school competition is a two-year journey. But as the South Windsor soccer season nears its final games, one player has completely redefined the timeline. Two months into the grueling fall schedule, freshman Haris Zhinipotoku has not only secured a permanent role on the varsity pitch but has become a dynamic force for the defense.
Zhinipotoku has been playing soccer since as far back as he can remember. As his first steps came, his first kick off the ball followed almost immediately after. From a young age, Zhinipotoku was different. That one player that stood out on the field. Controlled the game, decided it. That was Zhinipotoku.
The first of tests came when he was in the 6th grade. Zhinipotoku made the middle school team in his first year, going on to make the final all three years, win two, and captain one of those final wins. His travel team at the time of 6th grade, also won the state cup, one of the most prestigious soccer trophies in all of New England.
“Playing with Haris was always a joy. A player who you could always count on to get the ball moving” sophomore Douglas Quiuqui said.
Zhinipotoku doesn’t only have school soccer presence, but also at the club stage. As an 8th
grader, he was already playing with high schoolers, playing a year up for CFC. This next year, he signed for the Hartford Athletic Academy, one of the top ranked teams in Connecticut in his age group.
The week of tryouts had nerves going. Some scared, some anxious. All the while, each battled for a spot. Zhinipotoku fought and won. His perseverance more than paid off. His natural talent, mixed with hard work. Proving himself through tryouts to be able to hang with the older guys.
“It feels great and I’m proud of myself as my work paid off, but there’s still a long way to go,” Haris said. “I’m still learning from my coaches and older teammates and I still have to work hard and seek improvement in my game.”
Zhinipotoku has always had a knack for playing in the midfield. Center attacking midfielder usually. Yet, for the varsity team he does not play there. The spot he is put in is right back. Coach Lepak saw how versatile this player was, being able to play both sides of the ball. Not only that, out of position, at the varsity level, he starts and usually plays most of the game. With all this he is still a crucial component to the team, 3-4 years younger than his competition.
“It always amazes me how Haris keeps up so well with the varsity level. The team just wouldn’t be the same without him” senior Junior Heredia said.
He has shown to be one of the most promising prospects, not just South Windsor, but Connecticut has. A joy to watch, creative and efficient. Still years to come for the player, to etch his name into the history books of the South Windsor High School Soccer. Remember the name. Haris Zhinipotoku.
