Take a moment to imagine being pronounced the absolute best at something. This realization will soon become reality


for senior Eric Stanowski, starting varsity goalkeeper, as he is eight shutouts away from breaking the all-time record of 33 shutouts at North.

“Breaking this record would feel good because I know I left my mark at FHN,” Stanowski said.

His dad got him started playing at four years old. Throughout his career he has played on some of the most recognized club teams in the St. Louis area, including Lou Fusz and Scott Gallagher, his current team. He credits his goalie coach at Scott Gallagher, Mark Dorsey, with giving him the best coaching. Although Stanowski is a natural talent in the net, breaking this record won’t come easily.

“It ‘s a lot of hard work,” Stanowski said. “I practice 5-6 times a week for my club team, and 5 times a week for North. Workouts are very intense.”

Stanowski has already proved his legacy in the North soccer program without breaking the record. Some of his accomplishments include being elected to the All-Conference team, honorable mention to the All-State team, and honorable mention to the All-Metro team last year. He was also elected to the 2nd team All-Conference as a sophomore.

“Eric is a good natural talent, but he works really hard,” varsity coach Vince Nowak said. “Lots of people have talent, but not everyone uses it.”

Not only has Stanowski worked hard to be the best he can be, but he has also been an inspiration to other people in the soccer program.

“He motivates me to work hard, so I can become as good as him,” varsity goalie Austin Haywood said.

Through Stanowski’s four years as varsity goalie, he has not only developed into a better goalie, but a better team player as well. This will be Stanowski’s second year as a captain.

“The experience has taken over now, and he knows how to handle it,” varsity assistant coach Les Hager said. “He takes charge in the back, and his teammates have a lot of confidence with Eric back there.”

The varsity soccer team has high hopes for this year as Stanowski will be anchoring a well-rounded soccer team. With seniors Luke Griesenauer and Kyle Kingston returning for the third year, and several juniors with quality starting experience, the team feels very confident in their lineup from top to bottom. They hope to win Districts and move on to Sectionals.

Although still a year away, Stanowski’s coaches feel he has a bright soccer future ahead.

“He will be playing college soccer somewhere,” Coach Nowak said. “He has the classroom and soccer ability. Someone will be really fortunate to get him.”