Santiago Morales and Helen Macedo have found different ways to grow through their experiences as captains at West Haven High School. Santiago, a 12th-grade boys varsity soccer player, has learned that leadership comes with mistakes and opportunities to improve, while Helen, an 11th-grade cheerleader and main base, has focused on becoming a better communicator and setting a positive example for her teammates. As they look ahead to life after high school, both athletes are building on lessons they have learned through their teams and other activities.
One of Santiago’s favorite memories from this season came during the boys soccer team’s home opener against Cheshire. Scoring the goal that tied the game was a moment he remembers because it allowed him to contribute when his team needed it. “It was an exciting moment because it happened in front of our home crowd and helped our team stay in the game,” Santiago said.
For Helen, one of her favorite memories came during her first season competing in cheer. The experience gave her an opportunity to compete while also building closer relationships with her teammates. “Throughout the season, all the girls bonded and became closer as a team,” Helen said. “I’ll always remember the memories we made together and how we grew as a team.”
Their experiences as captains have also helped both athletes develop their understanding of leadership. Santiago explained that the role has not always been easy, but it has taught him to take responsibility for his actions and recognize where he can improve. “I’ve made mistakes along the way, but I’m still learning and trying to become a better leader for my teammates,” Santiago said. “I’ve learned the importance of holding myself accountable, leading by example, and understanding that I can always improve.”
Helen has learned the importance of communication and responsibility in her role. She said being a captain has helped her become more patient while teaching her how to support her teammates. For her, leadership means more than holding a title; it also means helping others and setting a good example.
Away from their respective sports, both athletes have found other ways to make the most of their high school experiences. Santiago is proud of maintaining a high GPA throughout all four years while balancing competitive soccer, including playing at the MLS NEXT level during the offseason. He is also involved in Peer Advocates, Science National Honor Society and other school clubs. “Balancing school, competitive soccer, and extracurriculars hasn’t always been easy, but I’m proud of the work I’ve put in to stay focused and continue growing both on and off the field,” Santiago said.
Helen has found another way to get involved through band. Being part of the group has allowed her to meet new people and experience something outside of cheer. “I’m glad I get to be involved in both cheer and band because they are both important parts of my high school experience,” Helen said.
After graduation, the two athletes have different goals for their futures. Santiago plans to attend college and study accounting while exploring opportunities to continue playing soccer. “My goal is to play soccer at the college level if the opportunity is there, or potentially continue playing in the UPSL,” Santiago said. “No matter where soccer takes me, I want to keep improving and make the most of the opportunities ahead of me.”
Helen hopes to join the Air Force and become a nurse. She is interested in pursuing a career that allows her to help others and understands that reaching her goal will require dedication. “I know it will take hard work and dedication, but I’m excited to work toward my goals and build a future for myself that I can be proud of,” Helen said.
Family and other important people have also helped shape their journeys. Santiago credits his family for providing a foundation of support, while also recognizing several people who have helped him develop as a person and player. He highlighted his friend Mo for motivating him, Coach Mike for helping him regain his confidence, and his brother Danny for supporting him and pushing him to improve, especially during the offseason. Helen similarly credits her family for encouraging her to work hard and keep going when things become difficult. “I’m thankful to have people who believe in me and want to see me succeed,” Helen said.
As Santiago prepares to graduate and Helen continues her junior year, both athletes have goals that extend beyond their current teams. Whether pursuing accounting and continuing soccer or working toward a future in the Air Force and nursing, they are taking lessons from their experiences at West Haven High School with them into their next chapters.