With a trophy at their heels, the LHS boys soccer team have high hopes for this upcoming season.
They are continuing the winning streak, as they are coming into league play, with a record of 9-1 and a ranking of No. 2 in the state.
The boys started their pre-season off with a close 2-1 victory against Summit, and a 3-0 loss to La Salle Prep in their first couple of matches against 5A competitors. However they’ve turned the pace, winning their last nine games and starting the regular season with an 5-0 victory against Tigard.
With many losses from their state championship team, the boys have needed to rebuild.
“Losing 13 seniors has left us with some holes to fill, but it has also been an opportunity for our younger new players to step up,” said junior, boys captain Dominic Lemuz. “My hope for the team is that we will continue our winning culture.”
The boys are aiming to win another Three Rivers League title and go far in the postseason.
The Pacer girls are also midseason, starting league play last week. The girls have a pre-season ranking of No. 24 and a record of 5-3-1, including 0-1 in TRL league play so far.
“I hope the team knows it’s more than just soccer and the wins and losses,” said head coach Adrian Nixt, “I believe in this group and I want to see them make a name for themselves.”
In fact, Nixt is the first female coach in at least 20 years, and has already affected change within the group.
“I think [Adrian] joining the team has been one of the best things for girls soccer,” said senior captain Sydney Chavez.
New freshman additions have also boosted scoring tremendously. Midfielders Ali Post and Lucy Tragesser, as of pre-season, currently have 17 of the team’s total 29 goals, making them key contributors on the team.
The Pacer girls are looking to build on their record in league play. Their next home game against Tigard is on Oct. 22. The Pacer boys have their final in-season game at rival LOHS on Oct. 24.