Mais finds a fit at West Chester

Years of hard work pays off for Indian River soccer star

By Nick Roth • Staff Writer • February 25, 2009

DAGSBORO — Since Indian River High School senior Peter Mais first learned to walk, soccer has been at the forefront of his life.

And while his high school days are numbered, he knows his passion for the sport will live on at West Chester University.

On Tuesday, Feb. 17, Mais signed a letter of intent to attend WCU, where he will play soccer and major in business and accounting.

“I think the first couple months of the first year could be tough because it’s a more physical game,” he said. “But I should be fine; I played at a high level with some high-level players my whole life.”

For IR coach Steve Kilby, Mais’ presence on the field and ability to work well with others makes him stand out. Mais earned all-state honors in each of his final three seasons at IR.

“As a program, we’re tickled to see him move on to the next level,” Kilby said. “He will be a hard player to replace. His presence and field vision are really what sets him apart. You can probably find better players technically and tactically, but it is his work ethic and vision that separates him.”

With an older brother who also played soccer, Mais was born into the sport. He started playing for Delaware’s Olympic Development Program at age 11 and continued to play for its squads throughout high school. He also played for various club teams in Delaware and even traveled to Europe to face off against stronger competition.

“He loves the game,” mother Rebecca Mais said. “Peter’s always been big and strong and he’s always had a good attitude. When he went to practice, he always had a smile on his face.”

She believes her son’s leadership skills and ability to work well with teammates will help further his soccer, and academic, career.

Mais has a 4.0 GPA and has already been accepted into the honors program at WCU. While he considered a number of schools, he said WCU’s size, location and amenities were attractive.

“I made a few visits and knew some people who went and played there,” he said. “The coach is pretty strict, which I think fits me better. It just seemed like a good fit.”

Mais will join a Golden Rams squad, coached by Kendall Walkes, that posted a 10-7-3 overall record last year and finished in the middle of the pack in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.

nroth@dmg.gannett.com 302-537-1881, ext. 206