Boys soccer: Scouting DuPage County and Fox Valley
The 2024 boys soccer season starts this week. Here are previews of teams from around the Daily Herald’s DuPage County and Fox Valley coverage area.
Addison Trail
Coach: Ryan Dini (12th year)
Last year’s record: 11-7-1, 4-2 West Suburban Gold (third place)
Top returning players: Federico Alessi, sr., W; Daniel Herrera, sr., CB; Daniel Lupa, sr., F
Key newcomers: Christopher Aguilera, jr., GK; Richard Garcia, jr., W; Nathan Lugardo, jr., MF
Worth noting: The Blazers are pleased to welcome back 10 players. “They key to the Blazers season is team chemistry and being able to adapt to the new formation the team has implemented during the summer,” Blazers coach Ryan Dini said. Daniel Lupa (9 goals, 6 assists), Federico Alessi (3 goals, 8 assists) and Daniel Herrera (4 assists, 1 goal) are among the returnees for a program that will play in the Joe Novy and BodyArmor tournaments.
Aurora Central Catholic
Coach: Jean-Marie Nazareth (first year)
Last year’s record: 10-12-1, 4-5 Catholic Conference League (ninth place)
Top returning players: Nathan Diedrich, sr., D; Connor Dineen, jr., D; Neil Mayer, jr., MF; Elias Perez, jr., GK/MF; Matthew Vandeman, jr., MF/F
Key newcomers: Alan Acosta, so., MF/F; Leroy Arias, so., MF/F, Landen Diedrich, so., D; Omar Flores, so., D; Giovanne Gutierrez, jr., F
Worth noting: The Chargers are young but they have some experience returning from last year’s team whose 10 wins were the most in five seasons. “At ACC we are not looking up for not only this upcoming season,” new coach Jean-Marie Nazareth said. “But building up for the future while representing both the IHSA 1A, Catholic Conference League and the Aurora community at the highest level both on the field and outside of it.”
Bartlett
Coach: Anthony Glorioso (second year)
Last year’s record: 4-14-4, 2-5-2 Upstate Eight (eighth year)
Top returning players: Rail Arismendi, jr., MF; Will Ehlers, sr., MF; Nate Preissig, sr., D; Adan Rueda, sr., D
Key newcomers: Omar Castro, jr., MF; Marco Costabile, sr., F; Dzemal Dzambegovic, jr., F
Worth noting: Are the Hawks ready for a big jump in the win column? With a large senior class and the lessons learned last year through just a handful of wins, can the Hawks turn close games into wins?16 of their 22 games were decided by two or less goals last fall. “We will look to make games exciting and competitive in a very tough conference,” Bartlett coach Anthony Glorioso said, citing his large senior class mixed with an array of newcomers.
Batavia
Coach: Mark Gianfrancesco
2023 record: 4-15-2, 1-6 DuKane
Top athletes: Xavier Justice, Sr., MF; Evan Hashem, Sr., F; Matt Vrba, Sr., MF; Hudson Legut, So., D; Connor Verde, So., MF; Nate Barsch, Jr., D; Gabe Diaz, Jr., F; Greg Bell, Jr., F
Worth noting: The Bulldogs, who will be looking for another rebound season, lost a good bit of starters from a season ago, especially from the back line. Batavia will be leaning on the experienced midfield duo of Justice and Vrba, as well as Hashem up front, to help lead the younger Bulldogs squad. “We are looking to build relationships on the pitch throughout the season,” Gianfrancesco said. “We have some nice talent that we will work to bring out as the season progresses.
Benet
Coach: Matt Klosterman (second year)
Last year’s record: 14-4-3, 7-1 East Suburban Catholic Conference (second place)
Top returning players: Brendan Bergnach, sr., F; Jack Kuelthau, sr., D; Danny Sterba, sr., D; Jack Wesley, so., MF
Worth noting: The Redwings lost nine players from a season ago, including a great deal of talent defensively on a team that yielded just four goals in their final 14 games. They return four starters, including Jack Wesley, who led the team with 6 assists), Brendan Bergnach, who was second in points, and defenders Jack Kuelthau and Danny Sterba. Look for Mateo Picha, Ruslan Holubec, Teddy Nawrocki, Mark Ndrio, Ruslan Holubec, Sergio Polanco, Sean Boyle, Will Khazen, Uareme Edeki and Mathew Donaghey to contribute towards another winning season.
Burlington Central
Coach: Dean Ames (first season)
Last year’s record: 11-7-3, 3-6 FVC (tied seventh place)
Top returning players: Charles Wyzukovicz, sr., GK; Maximus Salas, jr., F; Noah Rosborough, jr., M; Samuel Knych, jr., M
Key newcomers: Avery Pawlisch, jr., D; David Mancera, Soph, D
Worth noting: Ames takes over the program and will try to provide stability. The Rockets have had four different coaches over the past five seasons but had a record amount of players come out for the team. “I’m looking to build a program at Central and believe we have a significant amount of young talent to shake things up over the next several years,” Ames said. … The Rockets will have a mix of old and new after graduating nine seniors from last season’s team. They’ll have strong representation from each grade. “We’re young but very talented,” Ames said. “We have several players that missed the majority of 2023 due to injuries. They’ll need to prove themselves in games but so far they look better than prior to their injuries.” … The Rockets will try to finish with a winning FVC record for the first time since the Rockets moved to the conference in 2019.
Cary-Grove
Coach: Mark Olson (19th season)
Last season’s finish: 3-10-2, 2-5-2 FVC (ninth place)
Top returning players: Ryan Boutwell, sr., F; Angel Cardenas, sr., F; Daniel Czerwinski, sr., F; Ryan Dixon, sr., GK; Finlay Evangelista, sr., D; Evan Frangiamore, sr., M; Landon Nawracaj, sr., D; Cole Waddell, sr., M
Worth noting: The Trojans will try to learn from last season’s experiences and make a push toward the top half of the FVC standings. They bring back plenty of upperclassmen and Olson is excited to see what C-G gained from last year. … Waddell comes back after earning All-FVC honors last season. He’ll be a major contributor for Olson as he leads from the middle of the pitch. … C-G is hoping to get over the hump in close matches this season. The Trojans lost four matches by a goal deficit and were also shutout in five matches. … C-G is looking to make a push in both the FVC and the postseason. The Trojans last finished in the top-five of the FVC when they took fifth in the fall 2021 season. They’ll also try to win their first regional title and reach the regional for the first time since 2015.
Crystal Lake South
Coach: Brian Allen (18th season)
Last season’s finish: 22-4-1, 8-1 (tied first place), co-FVC champions, Class 2A state champions
Top returning players: Ali Ahmed, sr., F; Nick Prus, sr., M; Mason Ross, sr., M; Hayden Stone, sr., M; Diego Paguada, sr., D; Pierce Johnson, jr., D; Will Prus, so., M
Key newcomers: Ryan Stell, fr., M; Noah Duntemann, so., GK; Kaleb Nunnally, so., D; Dennis Adusah, so., D; Will Witak, jr., D; Ethan Nawracaj, so., F; Zach Vallicelli, so., M; Patryk Pocica, sr., GK
Worth noting: South won its second state championship in program history and second title since 2018. The program also became the first FVC team to win two straight conference titles in at least the last 10 years. … The Gators will need to rely on plenty of new faces with five starters returning from last year’s team. “I am excited for this journey and hopefully helping them find a tremendous amount of growth, maturity and development throughout the course of the season where we can be peaking when it matters most in the playoffs,” Allen said. … Ahmed returns after earning Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association (IHSSCA) All-Sectional and All-FVC honors after scoring 25 goals and tallying four assists. He’ll miss the first couple weeks of the season with an injury but Allen is encouraged he’ll be ready for the start of FVC play. … Nick Prus comes back after scoring 14 goals and had three assists while Johnson had three goals and one assist on the backline. Both earned All-FVC while Johnson also had All-Sectional accolades.
Dundee-Crown
Coach: Rey Vargas (21st season)
Last season’s finish: 14-8-1, 4-5 FVC (fifth place)
Top returning players: Diego Flores, sr., D; Gabriel Herrera, sr., F; Christopher Gonzalez, sr., M; Sebastian Sanchez, jr., M; Hugo Arista, jr., M
Key newcomer: Mauricio Ruiz, so.., M
Worth noting: The Chargers return a majority of last season’s lineup and are ready to take a major step after some growing pains. D-C failed to win a regional title last year for the first time in the last five postseasons. … Vargas is excited with what he has coming back after the Chargers won three of its last four matches, including a shootout loss in the regional final to Huntley. “I am looking forward to working with this group as I have a majority of them coming back from last season’s team,” Vargas said. “We had a young team last year and it started coming together at the end.” … Flores comes back after a strong junior campaign to lead the D-C backline. He earned All-Sectional and All-FVC honors and helped the Chargers defense limit opponents to 1.2 goals per match. … Sanchez returns after earning All-FVC honors as a sophomore last season.
Elgin
Coach: Jimmy Romano (third year)
Last year’s record: 16-4-3, 6-1 Upstate Eight (first place)
Top returning players: Beto Gaytan, sr., F; Aaron Saldana, sr., CM; Roberto Salinas, sr., CB
Worth noting: All 13 of Elgin’s returning players have played in one or both of the program’s Elite Eight runs the past two seasons and eight of those players are starters. Leading the way are captains, Aaron Saldana (19 assists last year), center back Roberto Salinas and third-year starter Beto Gaytan. The team will need to pick up the void left with the graduation of Eduardo Nava who had 36 goals last year. Elgin, which is 36-5-6 overall the past two years, will have the most experienced team during Romano’s three-year tenure.
Downers Grove North
Coach: Rafal Slomba
Last season’s record: 10-10-1, 2-4 West Suburban Silver.
Top returners: Manta Palubinskas, sr., MF; Conor Shewe, sr., Kobi Marquez, sr., F; Oliver Davies, jr., MF.
Key newcomers: Grigore Onica, jr., MF; Ty Peboontom, so., F; Dylan Graham, so., F.
Worth noting: Downers Grove North is aiming to move up the conference ladder after a 10-win season in 2023. The strength of the team lies in the returnees.
“The team is coming off a competitive year and has been diligently preparing and focusing on tactical improvements and team cohesion,” Slomba said. “We are bringing back five starters from last season, so we will rely on our veteran players early on in the season. With a blend of experience and new energy on our roster, we are looking to build off our success from last season.”
Downers Grove South
Coach: Chris Hernandez
Last season’s record: 4-11-12, 3-3 West Suburban Gold (4th)
Top returners: Ryan Deacy, sr., F; Daniel Smazil, sr., F; Jonathan Venouziou, sr., MF; Brennan Free, so., MF; Aleck Galvez, sr., D.
Key newcomers: Brady Dunlap, jr., MF; Omar Flores, jr., MF; Patrick Olczyk, so, MF; Cody McCarthy, jr., MF.
Worth noting: With a new coach and several talented and experienced players in the fold, the Mustangs are a team to watch this season. Daniel Smazil, Jonathan Venouziou and Aleck Galvez will anchor a senior-heavy team.
“I’m excited to lead a program that means so much to both me and the community,” Hernandez said.
Geneva
Coach: Jason Bhatta
2023 record: 13-6-2, 5-1-1 DuKane
Top athletes: Reece Leonard, Sr., MF; Peyton Friedman, Sr., MF; Alexis Ramirez, Sr., D/MF; Tommy Rowoldt, Sr., GK; Jack Hatton, Sr., MF/F; Jackson Raby, Sr., D; Caleb Kelly, Jr., F
Worth noting: After two straight seasons of not getting over the 10-win mark, the Vikings finally eclipsed the mark again in 2023. And they’re looking to go even higher in 2024. Geneva will have some holes to fill on their roster, with the scoring duo of Trent Giansanti and Liam O’Donughue, who combined for 27 of the team’s 51 goals last season, graduated. However, they still have some fire power ready for this season. Leonard returns after leading the Vikings in assists last year with eight. And Rowoldt will return in net after averaging 1.105 goals a game last year.
And while the holes may still be there for a bit, Bhatta is enthusiastic about the up-and-coming junior class to start taking the reins, especially with players like defender Xavier Ebert, midfielder Alec Graham and forward Chase Marquardt.
“The junior group has largely been together for the past two years and had great success at each lower level and are now ready to compete at the varsity level,” Bhatta said. “This combined with a senior group who many have been on the team since their sophomore year will be exciting to watch as we push for conference and post season honors.”
Glenbard East
Coach: Josh Adler (21st year)
Last year’s record: 7-6-3, 4-3-2 Upstate Eight (fifth place)
Top returning players: Reean Dialektakos, sr., MF; Josh Roimicher, sr., D; Cooper Wooldridge, sr., GK
Key newcomers: Edgar Garcia, jr., MF; Charlie Gidcumb, so., MF; Ryan Kummer, so., D
Worth noting: The Rams only lost twice last season by two goals and surrendered just 19 goals on the year. “This year's team is a young group that is looking to find their way,” Rams coach Josh Adler said. “The team has some pace and exciting playmakers. Looking to compete for a top spot in the Upstate Eight East Division and remain competitive through a very demanding schedule.” By Sept. 13, the Raiders will have played all three other District 87 schools.
Glenbard South
Coach: William Fajkus (second year)
Last year’s record: 5-15-2, 0-9 Upstate Eight (ninth place)
Top returning players: Wyatt Bremer, jr., D; Ryan Hopkins, sr., D; P.J. Lehr, jr., MF; Diesel Oleksak, sr., MF
Worth noting: The Raiders will be more battled-tested this fall after starting three freshmen and six sophomores last year. With changes to the conference, the Raiders are in the East Division along with Elmwood Park, Fenton, Glenbard East, Ridgewood, Riverside-Brookfield and West Chicago. The Raiders open the season with four of their first five games against private schools.
Glenbard West
Coach: Phil Wicyk (4th Season)
Last season’s record: 13-9-1, 2-4 West Suburban Silver (5th)
Top returners: Johan Palacios, sr., MF; Alex Ginder so., F; Aidan Adachi, sr., D; Davis Barta, sr., MF.
Key newcomers: Isreal Juarez, so., MF; Angel Garnica, so., F; Harrison Olechowski, so., MF.
Worth noting: The Hilltoppers will have a new identity this year with the addition of 13 new players. The backline will have a great deal of experience as it will hold a rotation of five seniors: Colin Weil, Aidan Adachi, Chris Weber, Tobi Montilla, and Spencer Melms. Glenbard West’s attack will be headed by returning sophomore Alex Ginder. Seniors Johan Palacios and Davis Barta will be leaders in the midfield and newcomer sophomore Harrison Olechowski will complement them well.
“All three are skilled with the ball at their feet and have great instincts when it comes to distributing the ball,” Wicyk said of his three key attackers. “We are excited to start our season to see what this young group of players can accomplish together.”
Hampshire
Coach: Chayanne Martinez (fourth season)
Last season’s finish: 3-12-3, 1-8 FVC (10th place)
Top returning players: Jackson Carey, sr., M; Charlie Terriquez, sr., F; Andrew Nuzzo, sr., M; Diego Sanchez, sr., D; Isaac Ludwig, sr., D; Jacob Sheba, sr., D; Parker Smith, sr., GK Grayson Hedderich, jr., D
Key newcomers: Christian Myszczynski, sr., D; Christian Pegueros, sr., M; Jose Lemus, sr., D; Edgar Perez, fr., D; Cage Guge, fr., M
Worth noting: Hampshire will try to show growth this season after featuring a young lineup for much of last year. The Whips are aiming for their first playoff win since 2019 and their first regional title since 2017. Martinez is looking forward to that growth. “[I’m] looking forward to starting the season.” … Carey and Terriquez will bring back much-needed experience. Carey earned All-Sectional honors for his junior season in the middle of the pitch. … The Whips will look to a large group of newcomers to fit in with an experienced group. … Hampshire will make push toward a return to the top of the FVC this season. The Whips won the 2021 spring FVC Tournament and then took fourth in the fall 2021 season before dropping to the bottom half the last couple seasons.
Harvest Christian
Coach: Pedro Assumpcao (fourth year)
Last year’s record: 3-8, 3-3 (fourth place)
Top returning players: Mateo Constante, sr., D; Owen Langfeld, sr., GK; Lucas Menezes, so., MF
Key newcomers: Oliver Beckett, fr., MF; Ethan Schoenberg, so., MF
Worth noting: For the first time in a number of years, Harvest has a solid roster size with 19 players, including multiple returnees and four new freshmen. “The overall quality of our team has increased with maturity and playing options,” Harvest coach Pedro Assumpcao said. “This will give us more opportunities to rest up and rotate players, what was not possible last season.”
Hinsdale Central
Coach: Michael Wiggins, 31st year.
Last season’s record: 13-6-3, 3-3 West Suburban Silver (3rd).
Top returners: Denis Altman, sr., D; Enzo Cinque, sr., D; Martin Contreras, sr., GK; Michael DiTomasso, sr., D; Matt Gantar, jr., MF; Austen Szurgot, sr., MF; Braden Tingler, jr., D; Kostas Zamalaitis, sr., MF.
Worth noting: The Red Devils have experience on their side with six returning starters to join a group of eight freshmen and sophomores on the varsity for the first time.
“This year’s group brings a great mix of younger player and experience,” Wiggins said. “It’s a dynamic we have not seen in a few years, so we’re looking forward to seeing how they come together.”
Huntley
Coach: Matt Lewandowski (sixth season)
Last season’s finish: 16-6-1, 8-1 FVC (tied first place) FVC co-champions, Class 3A regional champions
Top returning players: Mason Leslie, sr., M; Max Connell, jr., M; Finley Williams, jr., D; Noah Gomez, jr., D
Key newcomers: Mathieu Tchoutan Ngoudjou, sr., D; Aiden Felz, jr., M; Tylar Caddick, sr., F; Anthony Frelas, sr., M; Tyler Murray, so., F
Worth noting: Huntley captured another regional title last season, its fourth over the past five postseasons. The Red Raiders will look different this season, though, with 14 newcomers. Lewandowski will try to get everyone on the same page as quickly as possible. “We will depend on the leadership and experience from our returners, who will form the backbone of our defense,” Lewandowski said. “We’re looking to use our depth to be a hardworking group willing to do what it takes to get the job done.” … Leslie will be a major returner for the Red Raiders. He scored a goal, had four assists and earned All-FVC honors for his junior season. … Huntley will try to finish in the top-three of the FVC for a fifth straight season. The program captured an outright title in the fall 2021 and a shared title last season. … The Red Raiders look to win their first sectional since the 2021 fall season with a young group.
IC Catholic Prep
Coach: Miguel Garcia
Last year’s record: 6-5-1, 5-4 (seventh place)
Top returning players: Filip Ciepiela, sr., MF; Sean Pels, sr., D; Alan Salgado, so., MF/F; Tristan Salgado, sr., D
Worth noting: Senior captains Filip Ciepiela and Tristan Salgado are four-year starters and all-conference selections whose leadership along with senior defender captain Sean Pels, should make a huge impact. “Our focus is to take this season one training session, and one game at a time,” IC Catholic Prep coach Miguel Garcia said. “The main goal is to make a solid run into the playoffs and earn our first regional championship.”
Jacobs
Coach: Colin Brice (sixth season)
Last season’s finish: 7-12-1, 6-3 FVC (third place)
Top returning players: Maksym Kharchenko, sr., GK; Esteban Varela,sr., M; Andrew Deegan, jr., D; Victor Stoian, jr., M; Ethan Aldrete, so., M
Key newcomers: Colin Phan, sr., D; Jackson Foley, so., F; Anthony Rodriguez, so., M; Quentin Gillus, jr., M; David Kuklo, fr., M
Worth noting: Brice is excited for what a younger lineup can do this season after graduating a strong class. “We have a very talented young core that will get a lot of experience this season,” Brice said. “I believe this team will surprise a lot of people and I’m excited to get the season rolling.” … Brice expects Kharchenko to become one of the top goalkeepers in the area after he earned All-FVC honors last year. “He has a great frame, [is] very technical and has excellent distribution,” Brice said. … Midfielder Kaiji Seto will miss his senior season because of a knee injury he suffered over the summer. … Jacobs’ young lineup will get plenty of experience before starting FVC play against Prairie Ridge on Sept. 17. The Golden Eagles will play at least eight matches before taking on the Wolves.
Kaneland
Coach: Scott Parillo
2023 record: 11-10-2; 8-2, Interstate 8
Top athletes: Jovani Ruiz, Sr., F/MF; Cam Guernon, Sr., MF; Matthew Mitchinson, Sr., MF; Noah McKittrick, Jr., MF/D, Riley Adams, Sr., D, Cooper Van Wagoner, Sr., GK
Worth noting: After seeing 10 players off to graduation, including Interstate 8 Player of the Year Sam Keen, the Knights will look to have some of the newer players step up during the 2024 season.
Guernon and Mitchinson are the top returners for the Knights in terms of scoring, with Guernon recording six goals and five assists, while Mitchinson was second on the team with 11 assists to go with a singular goal. Parillo also said that Ruiz, who played club soccer for the past three years, also could have a positive impact on the team.
Parillo said that his main focus for the season is to make sure that his team stays healthy. Of the 22 players listed on last seasons roster, only two players appeared in over half of Kaneland’s 23 games, with Quinn Schulz appearing in all 23, while Keen appeared in 19.
“This Kaneland team should be competitive as long as we can stay healthy,” Parillo said. “We have a lot of new players on the varsity roster, but they have stepped up and are making contributions during training. I am pleasantly surprised by how we are progressing every day in training and excited about the upcoming season.”
Larkin
Coach: Michael Huizar (fifth year)
Last year’s record: 13-3-2, 6-1-2 Upstate Eight (tied for first place)
Top returning players: Brian Ceja, so., F; Juan Cruz, jr., MF; Jonathan Garcia, jr., MF/D; Damian Martinez, sr., D; David Terrones, sr., F
Key newcomers: Ulises Flores, so., GK; Christopher Gutierrez, sr., D; Angel Lizarazo, sr., D; Julian Miranda, jr., MF
Worth noting: The Royals outscored opponents 55-23 last year but have a much different squad after losing about half the team due to graduation and transfers. Its top returning players are the lone six that are back, “so we can expect new players in every position this year, but this group had been impressive so far,” Larkin coach Michael Huizar said. “It is still very early with such a new team, but I like the commitment and effort from this group so far.”
Lisle
Coach: Jamie Clemmons (first year)
Last year’s record: 13-3, 7-0 Illinois Central Eight (first place)
Top returning players: John Darkoh, sr., F; Aldo Mora, sr., F; Max Sirovatka, sr., D
Key newcomers: Nicolas Bundschuh, jr., MF; Cole Geist, so., D; Liam Waggoner, jr., MF
Worth noting: Jamie Clemmons, who spent 14 years as Bolingbrook’s head coach, takes over for a team coming off a strong season. “We have a team that has several returning starters that can compete for a conference and regional title,” Clemmons said. Aldo Mora (25 goals) and John Darkoh (15 goals) will look to lead the attack while Max Sirovatka will anchor the backline.
Marmion
Coach: Gerardo Alvarez (fifth year)
Last year’s record: 12-4-3, 5-1-1 Chicago Catholic (co-first place)
Top returning players: Austin Conlin, sr., D; Gio Magana, sr., F; Adam Ozsyath, sr., GK; Emilio Morones, jr., MF; Jordan Peinado, jr., D/F, Diego Tellez, sr., D
Key newcomers: Patrick Bergeron, fr., D; Nate Voelkner, so., MF
Worth noting: The Cadets welcome back the majority of their starters, including all-state forward Gio Magana (15 goals, 9 assists in 2023). “We lost some key pieces down the middle, but have guys that will step up to fill the void,” Cadets coach Gerardo Alvarez said. “Due to success multiplier, we will once again be competing in 3A, which is a welcomed challenge for our group. Looking forward to competing for another trophy this season.”
Metea Valley
Coach: Josh Robinson (16th year)
Last year’s record: 8-11-1, 3-2 DVC (third place)
Top returning players: Cole Hatfield, sr., F; Anthony Hildreth, sr., MF; Sahil Khare, sr., MF
Worth noting: Cole Hatfield (7 goals, 3 assists in 2023), Anthony Hildreth and Sahil Khare (4 goals, 5 assists) are coming off all-conference seasons. They’re looking to give the Mustangs their first winning season since 2021. With 10 others returning, the Mustangs are looking to battle. “(We have) 12 returning players that have a tremendous worth ethic and energy,” Mustangs coach Josh Robinson said. “(They) truly want to leave something behind at Metea Valley and (are) excited to battle a very difficult schedule.”
Montini
Coach: Mark Kalal (first year)
Last year’s record: 1-14-1, 0-8 Chicago Catholic
Top returning players: Aiden Alonzo, jr., D; Julian Beahan, sr., MF; Robert Gutierrez, so., D/MF; Jonathan Kosinski, jr., MF
Key newcomers: Christian Aguilera, fr., MF: Austin Nelson, fr., D
Worth noting: The Broncos have a new head coach, a couple of freshmen looking to contribute right away and a number of players returning from a challenging season last fall. “After coming off a tough season, we look forward to bouncing back and being competitive,” Broncos coach Mark Kalal said. “Our mistakes are opportunities to learn going forward.”
Naperville Central
Coach: Troy Adams (15th year)
Last year’s record: 12-6-7, 4-0-1 DVC (co-first place)
Top returning players: Michael DeFalco, sr., MF; Ludo Gallina, jr., F; Ryan Gervase, jr., D; Eli Jarrell, jr., MF; Ryan Lafferty, sr., MF; Connor Waite, sr., FK
Key newcomers: Nathan Laird, sr., MF
Worth noting: With only one player left from the 2022 state championship team, "it is a little bit of a new era for Naperville Central” according to Redhawks coach Troy Adams and “with a good mix of talented returning players, excited new underclassman, and a couple of first year senior players, (we will) look to compete for both a conference and sectional title.” Ryan Gervase returns to the backline in front of returning goalkeeper Connor Waite while Ryan Lafferty moves to midfield to provide a box-to-box presence. The return of Michael DeFalco, Ludo Gallina and Eli Jarrell offers quite a formidable attack that’s already proven it can find the back of the net. Nathan Laird (DePaul) joins the team for his senior year.
Naperville North
Coach: Jim Konrad (21st year)
Last year’s record: 23-2-3, 4-0-1 DVC (co-first place), third in state Class 3A
Top returning players: Connor Hanrahan, sr., D; Sam Hess, jr., D; Niko Ladas, sr., MF; Noah Radeke, sr., F; Jaxon Stokes, sr., F
Key newcomers: Brian Biederman, jr., Dylan Healy, so., MF
Worth noting: The Huskies return 10 starters from a team that brought home a trophy from Hoffman Estates last November. Noah Radeke and Jaxon Stokes would win most arguments as the top 1-2 offensive punch in the state. Sophomore newcomer Dylan Healy, who comes from the Fire Academy, and junior Andrew Hebron will join returning starters Niko Ladas and Tony Flores in the midfield while senior Connor Hanrahan and juniors Colin McMahon, Sam Hess and Josh Pedersen make up a backline that coach Jim Konrad said “will be one of the strongest in Naperville North history” with Hess and McMahon at center backs and Pedersen and Hanrahan on the outsides.
Neuqua Valley
Coach: Arnoldo Gonzalez (10th year)
Last year’s record: 9-7-2, 2-3 DVC (fourth place)
Top returning players: Wes Karubas, jr., D; Dominic Landato, sr., F; Esteban Pimentel, sr., MF; Ricardo Robledo, jr., MF
Key newcomers: Oskar Marcinkowski, jr., GK; Ebraheem Yaghmour, jr., MF
Worth noting: The Wildcats are coming off their first winning season since 2017 and should be competitive once again as coach Arnoldo Gonzalez said the team is solid from top to bottom. “The spine from goalkeeper through the defense, midfield up to the striker,” he said. “The outsides show great potential but have yet to show what they can do.” Dominic Landato led the Wildcats with 9 goals and 5 assists last season.
South Elgin
Coach: Jerzy Skowron (sixth year)
Last year’s record: 9-8-4, 4-3-2 Upstate Eight (fourth place)
Top returning players: Quentin Albert, sr., FB; Justin Defensor, sr., MF; Jahson Leon, sr., MF: Matt Lipp, so., F; Jack Schmidtke, jr., F
Key newcomers: Rodrigo ‘Momo’ Gonzalez, so., MF; Christian Moscoso, so., GK; David Tyka, so., CB
Worth noting: The Storm tripled their wins from 3 to 9 the past two seasons. Where will they go now in the newly split Upstate Eight? “We’re going to have to find someone or a group to replace the goals we lost (from Ashton Kerrigan and Ryan Nguyen graduating with 26 between them),” Skowron said. Look for Matt Lipp and Jack Schmidtke to take on added offensive roles, namely scoring.
St. Charles East
Coach: Vince DiNuzzo
2023 record: 19-8, 6-1 DuKane
Top athletes: Garrett Melton, Sr., MF; Connor Sychowski, Jr., MF; Ivan Campobasso, Sr., GK; Aidan Richbell, So., MF; Huxley Kapoor, So., F; Will Wade, So., D
Worth noting: The Saints are coming off an appearance in the supersectional, where they lost to New Trier, who went on to win the state championship. It marked the second time in three years that St. Charles East made it to or past the sectional finals, but the Saints have their work cut out for them if they want to make it back.
East lost 14 seniors to graduation, including eight of their starters. On top of that, they lost sophomore defender Michael Grezenko, who started as a freshman, after he moved across state borders to Missouri to join Sporting Kansas City’s pro youth system.
What’s left behind is a relatively young squad, with Melton and Sychowski being the only players who have plentiful experience at the varsity level. DiNuzzo knows that the season may be tough on his young athletes, but he has faith that the team has what it takes to secure its 12th winning season in 13 years.
“We will lean on our returning players to guide our new players to try to continue the Saints tradition,” DiNuzzo said.
St. Charles North
Coach: Eric Willson
2023 record: 11-7-1, 5-2 DuKane
Top athletes: Casey Kriz, Sr., D; Diego Torres, Sr., MF; Ashton Goettel, Jr., D; Oliver Longosz, So., F; Dino Valenti, So., F
Worth noting: Despite losing two key players from last season in forward Walter Delapaz and goal keeper Alex Curtis, the North Stars return a majority of their young stars from a season ago for another attempt at a DuKane Conference title.
Longosz and Valenti return as North’s top scorers, with Longosz scoring six and Valenti having three shots find the back of the net.
The North Stars will have the most experience in their backline. Kriz returns after seeing the field more than anybody last season, Goettel returns after missing some time due to injury, and the senior duo of Cole Weddle and Ryan Knenlein round out the line after seeing plenty of playing time last season.
“We are a team that will always work hard. We have a good combination of veteran leadership and new, young talent,” Willson said. “In a very difficult conference, we will do our best to try and compete with the field.”
St. Francis
Coach: Jim Winslow (fourth year)
Last year’s record: 7-7-1, 5-0-1 Chicago Catholic (second place)
Top returning players: Luke Argamasilla, sr., D; John Coco, jr., MF; Junior Diaz, jr., MF; Nicholas Tisjlar, jr., F; Peter Williams, sr., MF; John Yarusso, sr., MF
Key newcomers: Ryan Callander, so.; Brody Jochum, so.
Worth noting: “(We’re) optimistic, but we need to find some goal scoring from a variety of places since we lost a bunch from last year,” Spartans coach Jim Winslow said. “I like the group a lot, but we have some very big shoes to fill.” The Spartans only non-conference win last year came in a 9-0 win in their opener but their non-conference schedule often has helped prepare them for conference success.
Streamwood
Coach: Matt Polovin (25th year)
Last year’s record: 15-5-4, 5-1-3 Upstate Eight (third place)
Top returning players: Alex Alcala, sr., D; Andy Benitez, jr., F; Max Galvan, jr., MF; AJ Sabanovic, sr., F; Jairo Sanchez, sr., MF: Luis Vega, sr., F
Key newcomers: Adrian Chavez, fr., MF; Brian Garcia, sr., D; Frank Jaimes, sr., D
Worth noting: AJ Sabanovic (20 goals, 13 assists last year) spent the summer training in Bosnia and will lead a team that returns a solid mix of talent and will have the deepest bench coach Matt Polovin has had in years. In addition to challenging for a conference title and wanting to win the Barrington Tournament and Streamwood Soccer Classic, the Sabres have their eyes set on getting to state. “If we stay healthy,” Polovin said. “This season will be fun for all.”
Timothy Christian
Coach: Joel Zielke (seventh year)
Last year’s record: 18-7, 5-1 Chicagoland Christian (first place)
Top returning players: Peter Buikema, sr., GK; Timothy Nulty, sr., MF; Cooper Rainone, sr., MF; Owen Wise, sr., F;
Key newcomers: Zach Baker, so., MF; Aidan Contant, jr., F
Worth noting: After back-to-back state trophies in Class 1A in 2021 and 2022, the Trojans won a sectional in 2A last year before falling to eventual 2A state champion Crystal Lake South in double OT in a supersectional. Most of that group is back with 13 returnees and eight being starters. Seniors Timo Dacian and Trevor Munk and juniors Ben Schroeder and Wes Huber are back in front of four-year starting goalkeeper Peter Buikema. With seniors Cooper Rainone, Josiah Bhatia, Timothy Nulty and Owen Wise controlling possession this fall, the Trojans have yet another reason to be excited about their opportunities this fall.
Waubonsie Valley
Coach: Jose Garcia
Last year’s record: 6-11-4, 1-4 DuPage Valley (fifth place)
Top returning players: Lachlan Ladd, sr., MF; Amiel Nichani, sr., D
Key newcomers: Lucas Garcia, so., F; Rihaan Gupta, so., D, Evan Wojtowich, so., D
Worth noting: The Warriors welcome back seven starters and will look for some talented sophomores to be a part of the mix this year. “We are an experienced team who is very focused,” Warriors coach Jose Garcia said. “The team has great leaders who will lead the younger players. We look to make it very far in conference.” The Warriors are vying for their first winning season since 2016.
West Chicago
Coach: Jose Villa (13th year)
Last year’s record: 10-8-2, 4-3-2 Upstate Eight (sixth place)
Top returning players: Donovan Avila, sr., D; Pedro Nicoski-Rios, sr., D; Kuba Slupski, jr., F; Cung Thawng, sr., MF
Key newcomers: Enrique Correa, fr., Julian Lopez, fr., Michael Richardson, so., Yurem Siu, jr.
Worth noting: The Wildcats have enjoyed a winning season every year since winning the Class 3A state title in 2019. “We’re looking to be competitive in every game and challenge for conference as well as the tournaments we will be a part of,” Wildcats coach Jose Villa said. “We’re feeling confident that this group can gel together and play for each other.”
Westminster Christian
Coach: Barry Versaw (second year)
Last year’s record: 17-3-1, 6-0 Northeastern Athletic (first place)
Top returning players: Heitor Bannwart, jr., MF; Zach Hoon, sr., MF; Brian Powers, jr., F/D; Elijah Schultze, jr., MF
Key newcomers: Alex Mirion, fr., F/MF; Elias Vaagan, so., MF/D
Worth noting: Last year Westminster lost most of its starting lineup to graduation and dealt with injuries but still found a way to dominate its schedule. “This season will once again be about who steps up to lead and who takes the opportunity to shine,” Westminster coach Barry Versaw said. “Depth will be more of a challenge this year than the past few seasons.” Zach Hoon got hurt a few games in last fall and didn’t return. He’s back along with with Brian Powers (4 goals), Elijah Schultze (4 goals) and Heitor Bannwart (12 goals, 9 assists).
Westmont
Coach: Francisco Delgado (seventh year)
Last year’s record: 7-12-1, 1-5
Top returning players: Juan Bolivar, so., D; Manuel Tobin, sr., MF
Key newcomers: Adam Dubiel, fr., D; Edwin Rodriguez, fr., MF
Worth noting: Despite having less than 400 students, Westmont is fielding a F/S team for the first time coach Francisco Delagado’s seven-year tenure. “The young group is solid and we are hoping to be able to keep them all together for the next couple of years.” The team had relied heavily on Abraham Johnson for scoring as he found the back of the net 73 times before graduating earlier this year. Who will step up and score for the Sentinels?
Wheaton Academy
Coach: Jeff Brooke (13th year)
Last year’s record: 13-9-3, 5-1 Chicagoland Christian (second place)
Top returning players: Mason Brooke, so., MF; Sam Brown, sr., MF; Carlton McClure, jr., F/D
Key newcomers: Finn Ruch, sr., CB
Worth noting: In addition to a winning season, last year provided a great opportunity for the Warriors to grow. Now they’ll see what that experience can do going forward. “We had a lot of young players log significant minutes last year which allowed for great growth,” Warriors coach Jeff Brooke said. “We have a strong culture and I believe we will have a solid group this year.” Sam Brown (15 goals, 6 assists), Mason Brooke (12 goals, 5 assists) and Colton McClure (1 goal, 4 assists) are among the team’s top players looking for even greater success.
Wheaton North
Coach: Joe Klingelhoffer (2nd season)
Last season’s record: 4-13-1, 2-5 DuKane Conference (5th)
Top returners: Jackson Galbraith, sr., D; Gabe Brada, sr., D, Luke Hodel, sr., MF; Alex Leon, sr., F: Junior Edwin Gitonga, sr. F; John Thawng, jr., F.
Key newcomers: Felmon Kori, jr., MF; Mathew Garza, jr., D, Chris Mann, jr., D; Rocco Johnson, so., MF; Ryder Froebe, jr., MF.
Worth noting: Jackson Galbraith is the only starter from last year returning, but he’s joined by fellow senior leaders Luke Hodel and Edgar Carmona in setting a hard-working and team first example.
“This is a high soccer IQ group that can win games because of their work ethic and understanding of the game,” Klingelhoffer said. “We mix an exciting junior class in with a very deep senior class. There are a lot of players on our roster that can wind up having an impact. I’m excited to watch this group grow during the season and find out which players step up. We will aim for a strong finish in what is always a highly competitive conference.”
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: J. Guy Callipari
Last season’s record: 5-10-3, 2-4-1 DuKane Conference (5th).
Top returners: Semin Razman, jr., F; Jet Oehrlein, sr., MF; Aaron Escareno, sr., MF; Am Za Lian, jr., MF; Diego Bautista, sr., MF; Jared Ferreyra, sr., GK.
Key newcomers: Carlos Garcia, so., D; Logan LaFratta, so., MF.
Worth noting: The Tigers should be among the top teams in the area because of an experienced core back. Junior forward Semin Razman, who had nine goals and assists in 2023, joins senior midfielder Jet Oehrlein (three goals, five assists), senior midfielder Diego Bautista, senior goalie Jared Ferreyra (80 saves) and senior midfielders Aaron Escareno as the top returnees.
“We have 16 returning players,” Callipari said. “We will get out slowly while trying to develop continuity in our ideas given the majority of players that are new to the level of play. Our goal is to compete in the DuKane Conference.”
Willowbrook
Coach: Al Ramirez
Last season’s record: 2-19-1, 0-6 West Suburban Gold (7th).
Top returners: Kamil Kurpacha, sr., F; Jonah Slinn, sr., MF; Mathew Herz, sr., D.
Key newcomers: Szymon Sokoloski, fr., D; Ian Mueller, fr., MF; Brayden Doston, so., F.
Worth noting: The Warriors enter a new era, led by first-year coach Al Ramirez. But the Warriors are looking to make some positive steps this season.
“It’s a rebuilding year for the program,” Ramirez said. “Our goals this year are to have a .500 season and make a deep playoff run. We will look for our team captain, Jonah Slinn, and Kamil Kurpacha, to help us lead the team this season.”
York
Coach: Jordan Stopka
Last season’s record: 16-5, 4-2 West Suburban Silver (2nd).
Top returners: Diego Ochoa, sr., GK; Freddie Steen, sr., D, Sr.; Oliver Conner, sr., MF; Aaron Jobi, sr., MF/F.
Key newcomers: Cameron Coates, jr., D; Roberto Barriga, sr., MF; Quinn Stratton, jr.; MF/F; Carmie DiMiele, sr., F/
Worth noting: With numerous experienced players back this season, the Dukes have goals of winning the conference this season.
“This team has had a lot of moving pieces since the end of the 2023 campaign,” Stopka said. “There are going to be at least six new starters on the squad, with a mixture of some coming from club and others being promoted to varsity. The boys have had a very intense start to the season and practice competition is at an all-time high. The season hinges on players playing some new roles and new players stepping up.”
- Bob Narang, Joel Boenitz and Michael Dwojak of Shaw Local contributed to this preview.