Boys Soccer

Saving the best for now

Boys soccer looks to recreate deep tournament run from last season

Nicholas Rasmusson rasmunic000@hsestudents.org

After a season that ended with a Cinderella run to semi-state in last year’s state tournament, the boys soccer team finds themselves in a new position: third in the preseason rankings and a favorite to capture the state title. Members of the team recognize their status and they believe that a state championship is very attainable. “The bar was raised with our run last year, and we know that we are fully capable of being there this year,” senior Evan Myers said. Third is the highest ranking that Fishers had in any preseason poll. Despite their high preseason ranking, senior Sam Hevesy believes that the team’s mentality remains unchanged regardless of where they are ranked. “The mentality stays the same as it was last year,” Hevesy said. “We know that we’re the best, and we’re going to prove it every night.” Hevesy emphasized that a major reason the team sees success is because they have shown persistence throughout every performance. “Whether it’s injuries or going down early, we’re able to push through in times of adversity,” Hevesy stated. Outside of their scheduled games, the team practices together every day. Senior Tyler March emphasized that the team’s goal of winning state starts by putting in work during practices. “We just have to bring it, bring the intensity,” March said. “We’ve got to hold each other accountable, and we’ve got to set goals for ourselves.” While winning the state championship match is their goal, the match is played in late October. March emphasized that the team needs to avoid looking ahead to that match and take each team and match before then seriously. “We have to live in the moment, we can’t strive for a goal that’s several months out,” March stated. “We just have to focus on what we’re doing right now and get better.” The team started the season 7-0-1 with their only draw occurring against the preseason number one team, Noblesville. March attributes the team’s success to their desire to win every game. “Every single game that we’ve played this year, we’ve wanted it more than the other team, and that’s why we’re winning,” March said. “That’s why we’re on a hot streak right now.” According to Myers, chemistry is a key factor in the team’s success. Players on the team come from club teams scattered across the state, which could cause difficulties playing together, but Myers ensures that the team is tight-knit. “This team is so well connected,” Myers stated. “We’re like a brotherhood. We support each other through ups and downs. That’s what makes us a great team.” Regardless of who the team plays, Myers highlights that the team is ready for the challenge ahead. They are fearless toward any opponent. “We’re hungry and ready to get after it,” Myers emphasized. The team continues its pursuit of a state championship with their next game on Sept. 21 at Avon at 7:30 p.m.

The team huddles up before a match against McCutcheon on Aug. 28. Fishers won 4-0. Photo courtesy of Emma Tomlinson.

“We know we’re the best, and we’re going to prove it every night.”