Kenta TakahashiSoccer

Yokota, Japan

Last week: Scored five goals and assisted on a goal as the Panthers (14-2) swept a two-match weekend DODDS-Japan Soccer League series at Matthew C. Perry.

Takahashi, a senior, is perhaps better known for being half of the two-time Far East Tennis Tournament boys doubles champion with Ken Brophy. He scored four times as Yokota beat the Samurai 7-1 on Friday, then had a goal and an assist in Saturday’s 8-0 shutout of Perry.

“Kenta plays the game and practices with great energy and a tremendous joy,” coach Tim Pujol said. “We always get his best effort no matter the opponent or the score. He truly loves to play the game, and when you watch him you can see that. It’s a beautiful thing.”

Kate CutshallSoccer

Matthew C. Perry, Japan

Last week: Recorded a shutout and made 17 saves as the Samurai (8-5-3) made school history by scoring their first varsity victory over Yokota during last weekend’s two-match DODDS-Japan Soccer League series.

Cutshall, a sophomore nicknamed “Berlin Wall” owing to her being born in Germany, stopped nine shots as the Samurai played the Panthers to a scoreless draw on Friday. The next day, Cutshall made eight saves in Perry’s 2-1 victory.

Perry principal Gail Anderson calls Cutshall a “well-rounded scholar, athlete and citizen” and an “exemplary role model.”

“Kate is not afraid to do what it takes to get the job done, as is evidenced by the fact that every one of her fingers has been broken at one time or another while earning her nickname,” Anderson said.

— Selected by Stars and Stripes staff

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