The MHS Senior Boys have had an outstanding soccer season. Their returning players came back excited and determined after missing out on a whole season last year due to Covid.
During the regular season, they played three games in a 7v7 league and were undefeated in these games. They played John Paul ll twice in North Battleford where they both came out with a win, then once at home where Martensville defeated them 4 – 2.
The team headed to North Battleford this past weekend for Regionals where they played their first game against Humboldt. The opponents came out ahead 2 – 0 in the first half but the boys battled back to tie it up by half time and won with 4 consecutive goals. They played JPII again in the final and lost 2-1, although it was a close and intense game. With a clear goal in mind to make Provincials at the beginning of the season, they were delighted to have earned that opportunity after their performance at Regionals. They will be leaving for Provincials in Yorkton on Friday morning with their first game starting at 2pm against Moose Jaw.
When I asked Head Coach Kate McKinnon who were some of the players that stood out this year, she said that their team is full of standout players, so it is difficult to shine a spotlight on specific players. “We have two outstanding captains; Alex Garchinski and Om Patel. Both boys have been extremely dedicated to the soccer team throughout their high school career and have had unbelievable growth and development as players. They have truly led the team this year, helping with practices, keeping the boys motivated and leading our offense. They are incredible captains and players.”
She stated that their goalkeeper Jakson Dean is another standout player who has had an amazing season. He has stopped several penalty kicks, a very difficult feat, including 3 out of 5 in one shoot out. The boys are extremely confident having Jakson in net.
On their starting defensive line they have four grade 11’s: Kayden Berge, Mason Lewis, Rylan Smith and Lukas Gurski. “These four boys have led our defensive efforts this year and have saved the team time and time again. They are an extremely strong line,” said McKinnon.
“We have many more strong players who deserve recognition and in general, every player has something to be proud of. They are a close-knit group and have had a great time together this season.”
