Senior Jacob Alex is a captain for the Rosemount boys’ soccer team this fall. He is a right defender and center midfielder.

“He is a player I shift around depending on the competition,” Irish coach Mike Floersch said. “He has speed, quickness, great leadership and works hard.”

Alex isn’t one to take anything for granted.

“He is a better player than he was last year, and that is saying a lot,” Floersch said. “I am glad he plays for Rosemount, not our opponents.”

The Irish are looking to improve on last year’s 9-8-1 record. They had only won seven games the previous two years combined.

“We all believe [coaches and players] that we can pick up where we left off and do better,” Floersch said. “The players came into the season thinking they are going to win instead of coming to a game hoping not to lose.”

Rosemount is 2-2-1 through its first games.

Here is a closer look at Alex:

The best movie I’ve seen in the last year? “Fight Club.”

Three songs I never skip on my iPod are … “Lose Yourself” by Eminem; “Bleed It Out” by Linkin Park; “Pursuit of Happiness” by Kid Cudi.

What are your three favorite apps? Twitter; YouTube; Candy Crush.

Three words my friends or teammates might use to describe me? Sympathetic; ambitious; leader.

How did you get started playing soccer? My dad first introduced me to the local in-house team back when I was second grade, and I grew to love the sport.

At my first varsity practice, I felt … nervous, but excited to see how my skills compared to those older than me.

What did you work on most prior to the start off the season? My strength, fitness and vision on the field.

What are your goals for the season? Hopefully, receive South Suburban all-conference honors and help my team get to the dome [state tournament].

What is your favorite meal before a game? Lasagna with salad and breadsticks.

To get ready for a game, I … listen to my iPod, visualize the upcoming game and watch Messi highlights on YouTube.

What is your most memorable moment as a high school athlete? Beating Henry Sibley 2-1 last year in the Class 2A, Section 3 semifinals.

Who is your school’s biggest rival, and why? Eastview. They were the state champions last year and the games bring in a lot of fans and excitement.

If you could change one thing about high school sports, what would it be? Longer seasons.

How do you balance school and sports during the year? I focus on one thing at a time. I usually go to the soccer practice or game and then come back home and study.

In 10 years, I hope I’m … studying in medical school, but still keeping up with the sport I love.

What is the best sports advice you ever received? All the work you put into your sport will only pay off if you believe in your abilities.

RON HAGGSTROM