Credit to Chris Brandt

The boys varsity soccer team celebrates as senior Spencer Guthrie scores in the second half of the game, which ended in a score of 2-0, the Knights winning.

The new FHN boys soccer season brings new beginnings for the seniors. Many of these players have grown up together, not only on the soccer field but in the classroom and in the community. Soccer has kept their bond strong throughout their high school years, but the roots of their friendship go far deeper than that. This bond has helped create a strong team that is able to take on any challenge, both on and off the field.

“They work very well together on the field through communication and overall performance,” former varsity head coach Matt Havermale, said. “They look like a true team and I am excited to watch these boys succeed for their final season.”

The strength of this team doesn’t just come from talent or practice hours, it comes from trust. From outside of practice to during a game, their connection never goes unnoticed. They communicate easily showing how years of familiarity shape how they play. As seniors, it is their role to set the tone for the rest of the team. Each player contributes something unique to the team, but one specific player catches the eyes of many teammates. Adam McCoy, the current captain, has embraced his leadership role and continues to set a great example for everyone around him.

“He is always able to tell the truth and keep us in check when needed,” Nathan Bitter, close friend of McCoy’s, said.

“After a bad game, other seniors and I will often gather as a group to talk about what went well and what needs to change,” McCoy said. “Our main goal is to grab a win but as long as we are performing our personal best that’s all I ask for.”

Whether it’s a pre-game pep talk from Carson Howard, goalie for varsity, about his expectations for what he would like to see, or McCoy leading the chant to break, they are keeping a positive atmosphere and communicating throughout the entire game.

“Carson Howard is very vocal,” Havermale said. “Which is good because he can see everything happening from the goal in front of him and he really helps keep the team organized and moving in the right direction.”

Their bond, however, extends further than just soccer. The friendships they have built carry into their everyday lives. After games and on weekends, they continue creating memories together. Whether it’s celebrating a big win or just enjoying time away from the field, these shared experiences deepen their connections. They often share their highlights from the weekend or relive funny moments that make their friendships stronger. While there are many options around North to explore, they find themselves visiting certain places more frequently than others.

“Sometimes we just drive around blasting music and joking around before heading home,” senior Dylan Rowatt said. “Or we grab ice cream with no real plan. No matter what we choose to do, we always do it together.”

For many, these moments outside of soccer are just as important as the ones on the field. They are reminders that while the game brought them together, it’s the laughter, late-night talks, and shared traditions that will keep them connected for years to come. These seniors may not have all of their future plans solidified yet, but they know one thing is certain.

“No matter where life takes us, we will always be best friends,” Rowatt said.