Morsink matures as teammate

File Photo Sophomore midfielder Kurt Morsink defends against The College of William and Mary in a CAA playoff game last season.

Sophomore midfielder Kurt Morsink’s 20-point campaign in 2003 established him as one of the Dukes’ most skilled players. This season he will be relied upon by his teammates to establish himself as a leader as well, coach Tom Martin said.

Morsink has been playing at an elite level for his entire soccer career. He attended high school at the famous IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fl. At the IMG Academy, Morsink’s daily focus was soccer.

"[IMG] was the best preparation for the college level," Morsink said. "Playing soccer for four hours every day helped build my passion for the game."

While the academy is well-known for building soccer skills, it also has a reputation of boosting egos as well.

"Academies like that do everything they can to promote and build players for the college level," Martin said. "But, at the same time, the focus is on the singular player, not the team concept."

Morsink added that it’s his competitive fire that fuels his aggressive play.

"Coming in last year, I was used to being the leader and it was tough taking a secondary role," Morsink said. "I realize my personality on the field can be abrasive, but that’s just my competitive nature taking over. I hate to lose."

Small arguments that pop up at practice usually are centered on IMG alumni, including Morsink.

"Those distractions can damage teams energy," Martin said. "Kurt’s form of communication can be very emotional. Until his teammates are accustomed to it, it can be seen as antagonistic."

However, both Martin and Morsink recognize that last season’s Team Rookie of the Year is constantly growing and maturing.

"Over the spring I got a chance to become more comfortable with the guys," Morsink said. "Relaxing, eating together and just hanging out have helped build team chemistry."

Bonding with teammates has changed Morsink’s on-field composure.

"He has done a good job of channeling his emotions lately," Martin said.

In a home scrimmage against George Washington University Saturday, Morsink demonstrated his newly acquired composure. A scoring chance in the first half seemed to be lost when Morsink, who was streaking with the ball around the Colonials’ penalty box, was taken down hard by a defender. Morsink, without a complaint to the referee, gathered himself and turned in a successful free kick from 25 yards out. He ended up with two goals and an assist on the day.

Despite posing team chemistry problems in the past, Martin feels that Morsink’s strong personality can be used to the team’s advantage.

"Great teams have distinct personalities," Martin said. "And Kurt is one of those distinct personalities."

As Morsink becomes more comfortable with his new role as a leader and offensive centerpiece, the Dukes should thrive.

"As I learn to keep my composure and mature as a leader, this team will mature with me," Morsink said.