Issue date: 10/14/04 Section: Sports

Similar to an alpha male leading a pack of wolves, Justin Bevis, 20, has confidently guided the Suffolk men's soccer team for the past two years. Sticking together as a team both on and off the soccer field, the Rams have built up their aggression and speed while creating an everlasting bond amongst each other.

Standing tall at 6 feet 3 inches, Bevis, the team's starting right-forward, skillfully captained the Rams through a 9-7 overall record in the 2003 season. Bevis, along with co-captains and senior defenders Zack Courts and Mike El-Lakkis, have guided the Rams to a 6-3 overall record so far this year.

Confidence, respect and persistence are key aspects of Bevis' leadership and individual personality. On Saturday Oct. 9, the Rams perseverance swayed when the Western New England College men's soccer team scored an early goal.

As commander in chief, Bevis knew what he needed to do and took action in the form of an old fashion pep talk.

"Sometimes my teammates tend to give up a bit when we're down," said Bevis. "But at this past game I remember telling them to persist and keep their heads up no matter what the score."

Regardless of the Ram's unfortunate 0-3 loss, Bevis continues to acknowledge the importance of unity even off the field. Frequently, Bevis and a few of his teammates will enjoy a movie together on the night before a game.

Bevis believes that this tactic ensures that the players will not be out late and therefore will be on the top of their game the next day.

A native of Monroe, Connecticut, Bevis has been playing soccer since he was five-years-old, making the sport a main facet in his every day life. Bevis' dedication to the Rams is apparent, basing his lifestyle around the game through intentionally avoiding conflicts with his class schedule and training regiments.

Although Bevis admits that he could be a lot faster on the field, he has proven his talent as one of the Ram's leading scorers, along with his roommate and childhood friend, sophomore Kevin Rogers.

Bevis finished the 2003 season with 9 goals and 27 points, which could be easily matched this season, if not beaten, as he already has scored 6 goals.

As talented as he is on the field, Bevis does not have plans to go further with his career in soccer after he graduates and therefore has devoted himself quite thoroughly to his studies. Maintaining a 3.2 GPA with a major in management and a minor in marketing, he hopes to be an entrepreneur one day.

"I'm working to gain the skills to market and run whatever business I end up pursuing," said Bevis.

Combining his loyalty, selflessness, leadership abilities and confidence, it is clear that Bevis will sustain his position as a leader of the pack throughout his life.

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