CALDWELL, N.J. -- Caldwell University Athletics kicks off a new feature, Cougar Captain's Corner, with graduate defender Jorge Gutierrez (Zaragoza, España), a captain on the men's soccer team in his second season with the squad.

"Guti," as he is known to his teammates, discussed team and personal goals, his leadership style on and off the pitch, and why he thinks this year's team can take the next step to the top of the CACC.

Men's Soccer opens vs. Bentley on Thursday, Sept. 4 at the Georgian Court University Tournament. The first home game is Sept. 17 vs. Dominican.

1. What is your main goal for your team this season, both on and off the field?
Winning is the goal, but I know success is about more than just the win-loss column. Success comes from building a winning culture where everyone pushes each other to be their best on the field and shows the right amount of respect, discipline, and Cougar pride off the field. 

2. What is a team motto or a core value that will drive your team this season?
The team's core values this season are integrity, humility, and brotherhood. 

3. What is the one thing you want fans to know about your team?
I want Caldwell fans to know we are a team that will keep on fighting no matter what happens during a game. We have the talent, the drive, and the mentality to go up against anyone. 

4. Who is a player on your team that we should be watching out for this season, and why?
You should be watching out for junior midfielder Ingebrigt Braenden, who we call IB. He is our offensive star. His dribbling, finishing, and decision-making can alter a game at any time, and he has the ability to create something out of nothing against any opponent. 

5. What is one personal goal you're striving for this season?
This is my sixth and final season as a player, so I am motivated by seeing my team grow and succeed. I want to give everything I can for my teammates and finish my collegiate career satisfied that I left it all on the field. 

6. What are you most looking forward to in your first season as a team captain?
I see being a team captain as a huge responsibility but a fantastic opportunity to keep learning and grow as a leader. My main priority is to build strong team energy and help each player realize their true potential so they can be a valuable asset to the team. 

7. After you graduate, what are you hoping to do next?
I have not decided yet what I want to do after I graduate, but I love facing new obstacles to overcome. I want to be somewhere that can push me into uncomfortable situations because I think that is the best way to learn and mature as an aspiring young adult. 

8. Is there anything else you'd like to share about your team or this season that we haven't asked about?
This year's team is committed to and believes they can do great things this season. We have worked extremely hard, trust each other wholeheartedly, and are ready for any challenge we may face.