Pueblo West's Wilder Unwin provides stability in net for playoff-bound boys soccer team

Apr. 18—Wildner Unwin knows he's not totally or even mostly responsible for Pueblo West High School's success on the pitch.

As the goalkeeper for the Cyclones, he's the last line of defense. But while he's had a solid season in front of the net, he's quick to give credit to the defenders in front of him.

Unwin and his goalkeeping have helped Pueblo West to a 9-0-1 record and the South-Central League boys soccer championship. In addition, the league title has given the Cyclones an automatic berth into the Class 4A state playoffs that start this week.

Just a sophomore, Unwin actually backed into a starting role for Pueblo West.

"I wanted to switch my freshman year and I was told they didn't have a keeper and I thought I'll go try out for that," Unwin said. "I got the position and kept playing as hard as I could to make sure I made varsity and it worked out for me."

Unwin is quick to say his success has much to do with the teammates in front of him.

"I have a really good defense," Unwin said. "If they weren't there I'd have a lot more goals on me. They know how to shield out. so it's really easy to have them shield and I can come out and pick the ball up. It's saved us a lot of times.

Pueblo West coach Eric Young has been pleasantly surprised at Unwin's progress as a young player.

"We graduated a goalie last season so we were in need of someone to fill the position," Young said. "The biggest thing about Wilder is that he works hard. He does a great job taking instruction, wanting to get better."

Young also said that Unwin is still developing and points out his strengths and weaknesses.

"With him, his biggest weakness is probably confidence," he said. "He's still young. Over time he will develop confidence and have more of a presence, having authority in his area. What he does well is he's willing to do whatever it takes to be a help to our team.

"We've talked a lot about trying to do his best to make the saves he can make and keeping him focused on the task. Don't get down if one gets past him. He even played some JV on the field when we were short of players for us this season. He's a real team player."

Unwin also believes his concentration level must be up to par with the postseason coming up.

"I have to be able to concentrate," he said. "If (the ball) is not on your side of the field you have to make sure you are paying attention to what you need to do. The best thing you have to do to keep bouncing up and down so you can keep your feet warm and you are able to dive left or right.

"Plus, judgement is really important. If you misjudge something, it's an easy goal."

With the postseason ahead, Unwin knows the competition will get better and he'll be tested much more, and by better players.

"The playoffs are way tougher," he said. "I have to make sure I'm paying attention the whole time. make sure I'm warm.

"I have a one-goal-a-game average. Hopefully, we can keep that going at state."

Chieftain interim sports editor Jeff Letofsky can be reached by email at jletofsky@chieftain.com or on Twitter @jeffletofsky