Wheaton Warrenville South does not play with a center midfieilder in the traditional sense.
Rather, they have three of them.

“We almost have a triangle of center midfielders,” said coach Guy Callipari.

He added that the three center mids were not typical of a 4-3-3 formation.

At the top of the triangle is Andrew Bellmer. Callipari classifies the position as a withdrawn striker.

“I think it definitely gives a different look at the center midfielder,” Bellmer said.

At last count, Bellmer had 13 goals on the season, including a four-goal game against Lake Zurich.

“You definitely have to be attack-minded,” Bellmer said.

And while Bellmer could often play ahead of the forwards, it is also a defensive position. He has two supporting center mids who play along the sidelines, but Bellmer’s defensive responsibilities stretch across the field.

Callipari chose Bellmer for the position for his soccer savvy and imagination to solve problems quickly.

At Glenbard South, Bob Blecher has a clear list of what he looks for in a center midfielder.

“Ball winning is clearly my first priority,” Blecher said. “A mental consistency to be effective in transition play is my second priority, and contributing to the attack is important, but, of the three, my last priority.”

Glenbard West coach Maciej Kusmierz belies Angel Escobedo has been a great center mid for the Hilltoppers this season.

“Angel has showed great dedication and devotion to his teammates as well as the game,” Kusmierz said. “Whether he is the creator or the goal scorer, he always leaves everything on the field while displaying great technical abilities.”

While there are successful center midfielders at all different levels around the world, Bellmer of WWS said Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo exemplifies the position.

“He’s all over the field,” Bellmer said. “That’s something I have to do.”