Last spring, programs like Forest Park, Hayfield and Meridian were close to making the playoffs. The Mustangs also won the Class 3 title for the 12th time in program history. These teams are back on the field this month and are looking to ride the momentum.
No local team did better than Lewis at the Class 6 level last season. The Lancers advanced to the state championship game for the second time in three seasons. However, for the second time in the past three seasons, they fell short.
“That creates hunger,” Lancers coach John Milward said. “Our goal this year is to pick up where we left off. But ultimately, like everyone else, we need to build chemistry early in the season.”
Millward brings back several starters from last year's team, and his roster includes 14 seniors. Returning playmakers include forward Elias Rodriguez, who scored a combined 18 goals last spring, and key midfielders Mold Ezahir and Ermias Yosef. Millward isn't worried about his seniors' desire to return to the state playoffs. The early season is all about developing that desire in the rest of the squad.
“The coaches and the senior captains can't want this more than anyone on the pitch. If we want to continue the culture we've tried to establish here, everyone needs to step up. We need to find an insatiable hunger for excellence every day.”
After finishing runner-up twice in the past three seasons, the Lancers are hungrier than ever to win a state title.
The Hornets generated a lot of preseason buzz last season as they won the Liberty District title and advanced to the state quarterfinals.
The Eagles have developed into a powerhouse in Prince William County, going undefeated in the regular season for the past two years.
Seniors Ben Colcom and Nana Gyamfi will lead a Bruins team that had a strong run in the postseason in 2023.
The talented Highlanders will give it their all in the always competitive Liberty District.
The Yellow Jackets return their entire starting lineup, including key seniors Luis Argueta and Jorge Ortega.
Despite losing some of the depth that helped them reach the state semifinals last spring, the Hawks maintain the foundation of their success.
8
Washington-Liberty (9-4-2)
back to menu
Coach Jimmy Carrasquillo's program is always a strong contender out of Arlington County.
One of the most successful programs in the state, the Mustangs won their 12th state title last season.
The Bobcats reached the state quarterfinals last year and are expected to be a contender in Prince William County.
About bubbles: City of Alexandria, Langley, Loudoun County, Riverside. W.T. Woodson
