Athlete Spotlight: Lakeland Goalie Oban Rader Battles Hard Both On and Off the Field

SHRUB OAK, N.Y.—Lakeland goalkeeper Oban Rader has been on the Hornets’ varsity squad since his freshman year.

He earned All-League honors as a junior last season and this year was named the Con Edison Scholar Athlete of the Week on Sept. 19. 

Rader is the Hornets’ senior captain, with teammate Lucas Boyko the junior captain. 

One of Rader’s highlights this season was when he recorded 7 saves in a 2-1 victory at Somers to win the third edition of the Hudson Valley Cup—the first time the Hornets have won it. 

But Rader had overcome tougher opponents off the field, fighting cancer before becoming officially cancer-free on May 28. He plans to play both varsity basketball and lacrosse this school year as well. 

How old were you when you started playing soccer and what got you started?

My dad got me started playing soccer signing me up for rec when I was 6 years old in first grade. 

What is your favorite thing about being on the Lakeland boys soccer team?

It is the togetherness and how close everyone in the program is. 

What is your favorite team activity or pre- or post-game ritual?

My favorite pre-game activity would be blasting music in the locker room with the boys before games and getting ready to play. 

Who has been your biggest role model?

My dad, because he has always pushed me to be better and work harder. 

Tell us one thing about yourself that not a lot of people know. 

It's that in the summertime I like to go out to one of the ponds near me and fish. 

What do you plan to do after high school?

I plan to go to college but have not decided what I am going to do yet. 

What’s your favorite sports team? 

The Knicks.

What is your favorite music to listen to while warming up for a game?

I like to listen to rap because it gets me pumped up and ready to play. 

If you could pick one place to visit on vacation that you’ve never been to, where would you go?

I would go to England, because I have some family there and also to watch a Premier League game. 

What would you say to a young athlete thinking about trying out for the Lakeland boys soccer team?

I would say to definitely try out. It's a big commitment but the friends and memories you make will stick with you for the rest of your life.