This past spring proved to be a great season for Parkway United Soccer's U-12 team, which competed Boston Area Youth Soccer's Division 2F. The team -- the same one that won the Mayor's Cup in October of 2009 as a U-11 squad -- outscored their competition 22-9 over the course of the season en route to winning the division.

A key cog on the squad was a Temple Street resident, defenseman Ryan Guinto. Guinta spoke to West Roxbury Patch about his history with soccer, how he hopes to develop his game going forward, and about why he thinks the Parkway United program has seen such success.

Ryan, your team had a great season, going 8-2 and outscoring opponents 22-9. What was it like to be part of such a strong team effort?

Guinto: I felt like we were playing as a team not individuals. It was exciting. I have played with some of my teammates for many seasons now.

Soccer is continuing to grow, generation by generation, in America. What about soccer do you enjoy?

Guinto: I enjoy facing teams that are weak and that are strong. I like to juggle and kick the ball around in my yard - and watch games live or on TV, and great replays on YouTube!

This wasn't your first time playing on a winning team, as your U-11 team won the Mayor's Cup Championship a couple of years ago. What about the Parkway United program breeds such success?

Guinto: That the coaches do their job to teach us to improve and give us confidence. And playing with the same teammates each year.

Do you play soccer year-round? Do you play any other sports? If so, which, and which is your favorite?

Guinto: I play soccer every year in the fall and spring. Some soccer camps in the summer. I also play tennis, swim a lot, and I am on a snowboard team in New Hampshire.

Where in West Roxbury do you go to school, and how has your experience been? What do you enjoy studying?

Guinto: I go to school at the Lyndon School and it's been a wonderful experience. I just finished my last year there - sixth grade. I like studying math.

Have you thought much yet about how you hope to develop your game as high school approaches?

Guinto: I would like to change the old me and try some new positions. But I'm a good defender and that is where coaches put me! I look forward to playing middle school school and U-14 parkway travel.

Did you watch the World Cup last summer?

Guinto: I watched the World Cup and it was an exciting experience. I go to at least one Revolution game a year and watch other soccer on TV.

Want to nominate a Patch Athlete of the Week? Contact Adam Vaccaro at adamtvaccaro@gmail.com.