New Teacher Spotlight: An Interview with Ms. Andreou

This year, MS 158 welcomed a new math teacher—and soccer coach—to our school community: Ms. Andreou. This past soccer season was one of the most successful seasons in a long time. I sat down with her to learn more about her experience so far, her coaching philosophy, and the exciting growth of our soccer team. 

A Warm Welcome to MS 158 

When asked about her first months at the school, Ms. Andreou shared that her experience has been “really good—everyone is really nice.” She says the welcoming environment has made the transition smooth and enjoyable.

From the Classroom to the Soccer Field 

Although she teaches math, Ms. Andreou also coaches the co-ed soccer team. Her athletic background is impressive—she was a Division I athlete, which helped shape not only her skills but her values as a coach.

Coaching Style and Core Values

Ms. Andreou describes her coaching style as a balance of discipline, routine, respect, and having fun. She emphasizes the importance of integrity, something she believes every athlete should carry both on and off the field.

Her expectations for the team center around communication and teamwork. According to her, “They work together,” and that collaboration is a big part of what makes the team strong.

A Victory Against MS 67

One of the most exciting moments so far for Ms. Andreou and the team was their recent win against MS 67. The game was intense, but the players stayed focused and worked together as a unit, executing the strategies they had practiced. 

According to Ms. Andreou, the win was a testament to the hard work and dedication the team has shown throughout the season. “The players really stepped up and played their hearts out,” she said. “It was a total team effort, and I’m incredibly proud of how they supported each other.” This victory not only boosted the team's confidence but also solidified their belief in the importance of teamwork and perseverance.

Academics Come First

Even though she is passionate about athletics, Ms. Andreou is clear about one thing: academics always come first. She encourages her players to stay on top of their schoolwork and maintain a healthy balance between sports and studies.

A Peek Into Practice 

A typical soccer practice begins with a jog around the field, followed by warm-ups and passing drills. From there, the team moves into mini-games and finishes with a full soccer game. The structure helps players improve while still enjoying the game.

Handling Challenges and Celebrating Success

When the team struggles, Ms. Andreou maintains a positive and encouraging approach. She talks to the players at halftime, reminds them to “brush it off,” and encourages them to “just do their best.”

Recent success came quickly for the team, and when asked what led to it, she didn’t hesitate to credit the players. She says all the wins belong to them: “They put in the work and effort. They are amazing athletes and they worked hard for their win.”

A Coach Who Inspires

Through her guidance, leadership, and dedication, Ms. Andreou has already made a strong impact on both the soccer team and the school community. We’re excited to see what she and her players accomplish next!