NEW LENOX, Ill. — Lincoln-Way Central boys soccer enters the 2025 season determined to push past recent postseason frustration.
Head coach Dave Brown said last year’s sectional semifinal loss to Lockport in penalty kicks left his group motivated. “We were probably one of the top teams in the area by the end of the year,” Brown said. “We outplayed them, but just couldn’t find a goal. It left a sour taste.”
The Knights return a strong senior core, though they will lean on younger varsity players as well. Brown said he hopes to blend experience and new energy into a unit that competes for championships. “With help from these four seniors, we can gel and hit our stride,” he said.
Brown emphasized a “blue-collar” identity, built on organized defending and opportunistic offense. “We’re making sure from day one we don’t take plays off,” he said.
Seniors Chuck Stevens, Derrick Rafaez, Connor Pate, and Aidan Byrne headline the leadership group. Stevens said he’s ready to take on more responsibility. “I’m looking forward to showing the new players what varsity is like,” he said.
Central’s aim is clear: finally break through and make a deeper playoff run.