Hurricane’s Offense Deadly Force In DI State Soccer Tourney
Scoring opportunities don’t always translate into goals, but Kapolei standout CJ Harvey has a knack for finishing. As Harvey and the Hurricanes enter this week’s Division I state soccer tournament, they shape up as one of the more dangerous teams, offensively, behind Harvey and teammate Shandon Hopeau (19 goals).
Harvey, a midfielder/forward, has scored seven goals in his last four games, including the game-winning goal in a riveting OIA tournament quarterfinal win Feb. 3 over the Kahuku Red Raiders. The Hurricanes enter states with a 10-1-2 record.
“We’ve all been playing together a whole season now, and it has become easier to connect,” noted Harvey, who has tallied 12 goals overall this season. Harvey is among a relatively select list of Kapolei players who cracked the starting lineup as a freshman.
“My first year was a great experience,” he said. “I played with a lot of players who went on to play in college, and I took a lot from them. They knew a lot of stuff. I was really determined to make the lineup (freshman year).”
And he’s been a steady presence ever since, although his prep career has passed quickly: “When I love what I’m doing, time goes fast.”
Pairings for the state tournament, which begins Friday night, were to be revealed after press time. Harvey recently took some time to visit with MidWeek‘s West Oahu Islander.
What is your earliest sports-related memory?
When I was 4, going out to play in my first AYSO game at a park in Mililani. My mom tells me I always tried hard and scored a lot. I love the game so much, I wanted to get better at it.
Who’s had the biggest impact on your life? My mom (Tiana). As I grew up, she was a single mom. People question whether a single mom can take on the position of both a mom and dad, but she’s proved that you can. She’s really strong.
What area of your game did you focus on during the off-season? My foot skills. I knew I had to work on that for the upcoming season, and it has paid off.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned through soccer? You can always do better, and you can always better yourself.
Who on the team roster is ready for a breakout performance at the state tournament? I’m expecting big things from Shandon (Hopeau) and Robbie (Bootes). I love playing with Robbie. He’s willing to work for any ball. And our backline is always on it.
What Internet site do you frequent the most? I have to be on YouTube. I like to watch soccer videos and music videos.
What is your least favorite household chore? Doing laundry. I hate doing laundry — it’s such a task.
What movie could you watch over and over? Menace to Society.
Who are three of your favorite musical artists? The first would definitely be (rapper) The Notorious B.I.G. (Christopher George Latore Wallace), (rapper) Chief Keef (Keith Cozart) and Bob Marley.
When you have free time, how do you like to spend it? I love hanging out with my friends, and I play a lot of Xbox. Right now, Battlefield Hardline is my favorite. I also like to play FIFA.
You’re stuck on Kaho‘olawe and can have an endless supply of just one food. What would it be? New York-style pizza from New York.
If you could have your pick, what celebrity would be your choice for a prom date? (Actress) Jessica Alba.
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