Instead of warming up alongside his former teammates, 2026 graduate Alan Eskenazi has taken on a new role helping lead practices from the sidelines. For the fall season, Eskenazi secured a coaching position within the boys soccer program after committing to Babson College, where he will play once his gap year finishes.
Eskenazi, former captain of the boys varsity soccer team during the 2025-26 season, stumbled upon this opportunity at the team’s preseason in early September while speaking to boys varsity soccer coach Sanel Klinevic.
“I was giving someone a ride to preseason. Then, while I was saying hi to everyone, Coach K offered me a position,” Eskenazi said.
Since then, Eskenazi has been working with the Middle School and junior varsity 2 (JV2) teams during their practices, then helping out with the later varsity practice. Eskenazi noted that it can be difficult to coach his former teammates.
He said, “It’s definitely been hard to balance, but at the same time, the job of a coach is also to get along with and be friendly with their players.”
Varsity captain Dan Zagorsky ‘27 noted that Eskenazi is able to bring a different perspective to the coaching staff.
“He’s able to be a part of the coaching staff while actually knowing what it’s like to be one of the players at Masters.” He continued, “Rather than just organizing the team, he can guide players through the season which I think is very helpful.”
Eskenazi has also provided a lot of coaching value to the Middle School team. Chris Valverde, the boys Middle School and JV2 soccer coach, added, “We’re blessed to have a player like Alan here. I’ve seen him play when he was on varsity, and it’s great to have somebody with his level of knowledge and skill set to come along and help out with the Middle School team.”
Middle School boys soccer player Preston Porcelli ‘32 highlighted Eskenazi’s ability to assist the development of less-experienced players.
“I’m new to soccer, so it really helps to have someone to be conversing with to help you be the best player that you can be,” Porcelli said.
Conrad Tague ‘32 also emphasized Eskenazi’s ability to keep the team focused. “He’s kept us on pace, disciplined and able to stay on track” Tague said.
