In the competitive world of college athletics, a single game can make or break a season.

A single goal can mean the difference between winning a championship and being an also-ran. A single moment, a split-second reaction or a brief shift in momentum can determine who walks away with their heads held high. And it is in these situations that a team shows its true character, a character often reflective of its captain.

The Harvard men's soccer team was in such a position on Saturday, October 7 in an Ivy League game against the University of Pennsylvania. As the contest entered overtime, the Crimson knew that its Ivy League title hopes hung in the balance. Harvard also knew that if there was anyone who could calm the team and lead it to victory, it would be senior captain Chris Wojcik.

In the first overtime, Wojcik scored the game-winning goal to keep the team in contention for its second consecutive Ivy League title.

"We were sitting there on the bench and thought Chris was going to get the goal and sure enough he did," junior Kevin Silva says.

As captain, Wojcik allows his actions to speak louder than his words, preferring to lead by example. The game-winning goal against the Quakers certainly didn't leave much to say anyway.

"Chris, in general, is not a vocal captain," Silva says. "He has a quiet demeanor and quiet confidence that help the team. He has a quiet coolness about him and nothing seems to get to him."

Wojcik's game preparation helps the calm collectedness that his teammates so appreciate.

"The day of the game involves more physical preparation, as well as being in the right mood, right frame of mind and being relaxed," Wojcik says. "The day of a game I try not to talk about it. I just try to stay relaxed."

Wojcik handles the pressure of team leadership the same way he handles his game preparation. He prefers to stay relaxed and keep things simple.

"He never loses his cool," junior John Vironis says. "He's a great liaison between the players and coaches. Being one of only two seniors on the team, he has had a lot of responsibility and he's handled it really well."

Wojcik is always there for his teammates.

"I'm the players' representative to the coach, and my biggest job is to support them, prepare them and assist them in anyway I can," he says. "It's a very special relationship between coach and players, and it's very important that you do these things as captain."

Above all, above winning and scoring goals, Wojcik values the camaraderie of his teammates.

"The friendships I've made, the relationships I built with team members is the biggest thing I've gotten out of soccer," he says. "To be able to do it in a competitive Division I environment has been a great opportunity."