This year’s Tyrone Soccer team is very young, having only seven upperclassmen. However, they should not be underestimated as they are talented and experienced. Last year’s squad finished 10-6 and made the District VI playoffs.  With nine returning starters, that success from last year should carry over.

Tyrone boasts the league’s leading scorer, Bellwood’s Noah D’Angelo, and one of the best keepers in the conference, Anthony Politza. Last season D’Angelo set the record for goals in one season at Tyrone with 19 as well as scoring the most in the league.  In addition to an explosive offense, the team has a prolific defense led by senior keeper Anthony Politza. Politza’s hard work and dedication led to 328 total saves and a save percentage of .911.

The D’Angelo/Politza tandem led the team to three straight winning seasons and multiple playoff appearances.

“We won ten games last year, so we should shoot for at least eleven this year,” said Head Coach Nick Miller.

Last season was an effective rebuilding year. With a solid regular season record the team went into the playoffs hoping to surprise a few teams and make a run.

In the first round Tyrone went toe to toe with Huntingdon, a traditional Mountain League matchup.  The game was so evenly matched that it went into double overtime and then into penalty kicks.  Unfortunately, Huntingdon came out on top winning 5-4 in the second round of penalty kicks.

In 2013 Tyrone lost in the District 6 championship game to Phillipsburg. Although Tyrone’s past playoff experiences haven’t ended very well, they hope to avenge their playoff losses with a district title.

“The goal is always to make the playoffs and win Districts”, emphasized Coach Miller.

Seniors Nic Mallory and Eric Hartsock will provide leadership and skill to the defense. Mallory was also awarded 1st team Mountain League last season.

With a roster packed with eight sophomores, they will have to have an impact if Tyrone wants to be successful.

“The seniors this year are great role models that will help us make a positive impact, but Blake ‘Money’ Johnston will definitely have the biggest impact”, starting sophomore Asher Christine adds.

The success of the varsity team will require all four classes to work together, even the freshman.

“The freshman this year are very talented. If they continue to work hard, a few may end up starting or getting a lot of minutes, I’m glad we have them”, said Anthony Politza.

With a strong core, this years Tyrone soccer team could find themselves playing ball late into October.

The season begins on Tuesday September 8th at Tyrone’s Harry K Sickler complex, the match begins at 4:00 pm.