By Chris Parker
Laquey soccer is looking for a 10th consecutive winning season behind a strong junior class.
“We will look to our junior class for leadership this year, particularly Gauge Fleschute and Sam Swihart,” Laquey head coach Richard Heenan said. “Last season Gauge played as an attacking midfielder and led the team in assists and was second in scoring. He also received first-team all-state honors. Sam is a big, physical presence at center back who has the ability to step up and make one-on-one stops. Last season he earned first-team all-district Honors and we will look to him to lead us in defense.”
Fleschute had 8 goals and 17 assists last year.
Fellow junior Hayden Alley will join Fleschute up top at forward. He had three goals and three assists last year.
“After shifting through a few positions last season, and battling through an early injury, Hayden showed flashes of brilliance in the forward position to end the season,” Heenan said. “Gauge also contributed his fair share of goals last season from midfield and we are eager to see what he can provide us with at forward this year.”
Sophomore Ethan Larson is the key player in the midfield. He had five goals and three assists last year.
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“In the midfield, we rely heavily on sophomore Ethan Larson. Ethan received a lot of valuable time as a freshman last year, starting in all 21 of our games. Ethan is one of our most skilled players that can really influence the game with his vision for passing,” Heenan said.
Sophomore Donican Mathis will also have a significant role in the midfield.
Swihart and fellow junior Brock Denny both started every game last year and will anchor the defense.
“Both started in every game for us last season and bring a lot of experience to the back line after losing two key players to graduation,” Heenan said. “I think they will both step up in a big way this season to lead our team defensively.”
Mason Shaw is another returning junior starter. He will play goalkeeper. He missed about half the season due to injury and quarantine, but that didn’t stop him from earning second-team all-state honors. He had five shutouts and allowed just eight goals in 11 games.
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“Our biggest strength will be on the defensive end of the field, with a strong junior class anchoring us on the back line and in the goal. They bring a lot of leadership and great game experience to our team,” Heenan said. “Although we return 8 of 11 players who scored last season, we will need to improve our ability to score the ball. Ball retention will also be a key area of improvement for our team. We will look to work on our ability to possess the ball and control the game with that possession.”
Laquey will travel to Willard on Aug. 23 for a jamboree with Hillcrest, Fair Grove and the host Tigers. The Hornets open the season on Aug. 28 at home against College Heights.
“The boys have set high standards this off-season and we expect to compete with every team we face this fall,” Heenan said. “After losing in the semifinal of districts last season, getting back into a championship game to compete for a district title is a must for this group.”
