Tue Feb 07 2012
By KEVIN LYNCH
Staff Writer
Last season ended with a disappointing loss in the regionals for the Hiland boys soccer team. That experience, combined with the year of growing for most of the players on the squad has coach Scott Bodiker eagerly anticipating this season.
"Last year's team was very talented but entered the season with virtually no varsity experience," Bodiker said. "This fall, we have mostly the same team as last year but with a lot of playing time behind us."
The Hawks return 12 letterwinners and add a very skilled move-in.
"One area we're fortunate in is we have our three leading scorers back," Bodiker said.
Luke Burch, Cody Miller and Braden Conn are the high-scoring trio for the Hawks.
"We'll rely on them for scoring, but we have some midfielders who are perfectly capable," of scoring as well, said Bodiker.
Alex Schmucker, Noah Boyd and Josh Yoder each scored at least six goals last season and are capable of chipping in and supporting the offense.
Junior Christian Joy played at West Holmes last year but moved to the East end of the county and has clearance from the OHSAA to play for the Hawks.
"He comes to us at a time when we return a lot of guys who have been part of our program," Bodiker said. "Other years, without some of the experienced players, he'd have stepped right in and been a starter for us. He can definitely help us, but it might be in a different role than he's used to."
But the Hawks aren't all about offense.
"Last year we set the school record for fewest goals allowed," Bodiker said. "We return three of the four starters for us on defense, plus our goalie, so we feel we have a chance to be strong once again."
Seniors Conner Lee and Steven Anderson, and junior Jeremy Schlabach are back on defense, along with keeper Dylan Kaufman.
Following a successful formula, the Hawks face a grueling regular season schedule that features several rugged opponents from the Tri-County Soccer League, including CVCA, St. Vincent-St. Mary, Central Christian and other traditionally tough teams.
"Our league has consistently been one of the best D-II, D-III leagues in the state," Bodiker said. "Last year we were undefeated in the league, but had three ties. We should be in the mix this year for another top-three finish.
"Last year was really a great season, but ultimately, when we needed to come up big in the tournament, we didn't," Bodiker added. "That leaves a little bit of a sour taste in everybody's mouth. It was a good season, but we came up short of a great season."
The Hawks opened the 2010 campaign with a 7-1 thumping of Tusky Valley on Monday, Aug. 23, then blanked River View 6-0 this past Saturday.
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