Over the years, Javaughn Hussett has watched himself develop into the complete player.

During his initial years in the Whitehall soccer program, Hussett quickly emerged as one of the team’s more dynamic and productive players.

Last season, Hussett led the team with 11 goals and 10 assists, as they missed the post season. He also played for the Olympic Development Team for two seasons.

This season, Hussett has taken the cue from last year. He already has produced 14 goals heading into this week’s play, and his team clinched a postseason berth with a 3-2 win over Nazareth on Tuesday.

In addition, Hussett has undertaken the role of a leader in his final season.

“Right now, a leadership role comes natural to me,” he stated. “I really don’t see it as a problem. We have a good team and we also have a good chemistry among us. We rely on each other and we all have a good sense of where each other is on the field.

“We have all stepped up our game. The younger players are looking up to me and the other older players on the team. But the younger players are starting to pick it up themselves.”

His coach certainly has appreciated all of his contributions.

“Javaughn is a leader and scorer for us,” said head coach Chris Bastidas. “He has really taken charge this season and is off to a tremendous start. The other players can feed off his enthusiasm and determination.

“He has really blossomed into one of the better players around.”

Hussett admittedly knows all too well about establishing himself on the playing field.

“I knew I had the skills to play, but it really was a matter of confidence,” he stated about his progression. “The coaches helped me to understand how I can be as good a player as anyone out there.

“I knew I had to be more aggressive out on the field and I also became more confident.”

Hussett also has benefitted from a family background in the sport. He credits the long line of soccer in his family dating back to the playing days of his grandfather and father as well as two cousins who played for the Jamaican National Team.

“I basically grew up playing soccer,” he said. “My whole family has been involved. I started playing when I was six years old and I really love the sport.”

Hussett plans to play college in soccer, but he hasn’t made any final college plans. He has entertained the thought of pursuing a career in the health field.

Until then, however, it is about getting his team to the postseason.

“We want to make this year as memorable as possible and we believe we can do it,” stressed Hussett. “We need to stay and play together as a team. We have been doing that and we can get to the final stage.”