He’s gutsy. He’s intense. He makes opponents wish they’d never kicked the ball in his direction. He plays with contagious energy and charisma that makes him seem like a seasoned veteran. Someone needs to remind Sean Beach that he’s still a freshman. The six-foot, 190-pound goalkeeper out of Hilton High School in Woodbridge, VA, came to Guilford’s soccer team with no expectations. “I just came out hoping to play and compete with other guys,” he said, sitting in his Binford dorm room.

After the loss of Ryan Fitzgibbons, who was ranked fourth in the ODAC in saves per game last season, the Quakers were looking for a replacement. Sixteen games, nine wins and six shutouts later, Beach has filled the void. “Sean reads the game well,” said head coach Liam Behrens. “He’s got good size and athleticism.”

A goalie since age ten, Beach has always thrived on the pressure his position creates. “I like that there’s a reliance on me to make a stop. I enjoy the challenge,” he said. “It’s fun to see a shooter’s face after I’ve blocked their shot.” He’s become familiar with looks of disappointment. Beach has accumulated 106 saves this season.

Much of Beach’s success comes from his ability to stay calm in such intense situations. “It’s instinct by now, but if I ever do let the pressure get to me, I kneel down and get my head back,” he said.

He was also quick to mention the strength of the Quaker defense. “These are the best defenders I’ve ever played with,” he said. “They’re a great group of guys.”

Not only has Beach established himself as a starter this season, but he has also taken on the responsibility of a leader. He’s adept at keeping his defense aware of their surroundings. He is vocal when necessary. Beach is always yelling to his teammates when they have a “man on” or if they’ve “got time.”

Beach’s teammates are grateful for the role he’s played this season. “Sean’s tough,” said junior midfielder and team co-captain, Brett Ralls. “When we lost our starting keeper he came out and played hard. He’s a gamer.”

The Quakers have compiled nine wins, five losses and two ties this season and are looking for a strong outing in the ODAC tournament, which starts Nov. 2. If all goes well, Beach should be seeing plenty of frowns from the opposing offense.