Junior Harold “Cal” Taber plays varsity soccer for the Highlanders. He shares his advice, and outlook for the upcoming 2026 spring season. The next game is Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Come out and catch him, and the rest of the team in action! 

How long have you been playing soccer? 

I started playing soccer at 10 years-old and continued because I liked the comradery of a team and the encouragement that came with it.

What position do you play?

 I play left back for both my high school and club team.

How do you think you benefit your team?

 I am a very versatile player who brings good energy and leadership qualities when my team needs me.

What inspired you to start playing soccer, and who were your early role models? 

My dad inspired me to start playing soccer at a very young age. A few of my role models were and still are older club members and Messi.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced and how do you deal with it or move past it? 

Throughout my injuries I would rely on God and pray about any and all struggles I faced. These injuries helped me become a better person and a stronger athlete.

How do you manage physical fitness off the field? 

Whenever I have free time, I tend to go on runs to help keep my stamina up and condition at a high level. I also prepare meals at home to keep as healthy as possible especially during the season.

What is a pregame song that gets you pumped up? 

‘South to West’ By Gunna

How do you balance the pressure of competing at a high level with maintaining a healthy mindset off the field?

 I think of pressure as an opportunity- and it means that I am trusted. I tell myself I’m here because I earned it.

How do you prepare mentally and physically before a big game? 

I focus on the game ahead and tend not to stress out. I mentally prepare myself by listening to the same playlist every time. And physically- I stretch before with a foam roller.

Do you see a future in the sport post high school?

Yes, I would love to coach at a high-level club.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about soccer? 

To not get negative when making a mistake on the field and focusing on the next play. And rest and recovery are as important as training.

How do you deal with injuries, and what steps do you take to recover quickly?

Active rest, physical therapy, starting slow and gaining back up to speed (I give myself a short window of time to be upset and then I close the window- and focus on the solution to fix my injuries or problems.)

How do you balance soccer with other aspects of your life, such as personal time, family, or education? 

I spend time in each aspect but once the season starts, I focus more on soccer and school. The season runs December until possibly April. 

What’s the most important quality a soccer player should have to succeed at the highest level?

Training with a purpose, staying consistent, and showing up the same way whether the day is good or bad.

How do you handle criticism from coaches, fans, or teammates, and how do you use it to improve? 

I know that it is coming from a great place and they want me to advance as a player. 

What was your favorite event you played in and how would you describe your performance?

 I competed in San Diego at a highly competitive national event for elite youth soccer athletes; I performed at a high level and made a strong impact throughout the tournament. 

What’s your favorite memory from playing soccer? 

Scoring my first goal for the Woodlands High School my freshman year. A year where I had 12 goals, 8 assists, and also got offensive MVP for my team.

What’s a typical day like for you during the season? 

I have school practice during the last period for an hour and a half. Then I go home to eat, do homework, and get ready for club practice that goes until 9. Once that practice is over, I head home to finish any leftover homework, then prepare to do it all again the following days.

What are your goals for the rest of the season? 

Help my team go further in playoffs, win districts and hopefully advance in the rounds. I also hope to continue to be reliable for my team and continue to contribute on and off the field for my teammates.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a younger player? 

Treat every practice like a game.