Despite finishing the 2016 season with a 4-12 record the Tyrone Golden Eagles Boys Varsity Soccer team showed signs of impressive play in a rebuilding season.

“This season we had the youngest team since I’ve been here at Tyrone, and we could all pass this off as a ‘building year,’ but it was much more than that. Despite losing lots of tough games, this group of guys took it all in stride, learned how to win and lose gracefully, and truly managed to have fun,” said Head Coach Nick Miller.

Even in their loses, this young squad flashed signs of brilliance. They played their absolute best against the top teams in the league. Tyrone took Clearfield, a team dominated by seniors, to overtime twice.  They also nearly defeated Huntingdon, the top team in the league on their own field.

This type of play will become more evident as this group grows older.

Also, the addition of assistant coach Jay Stewart brought both years of experience and a youthful enthusiasm to the team.

The 2016 season seniors stepped up to replace two of the best players in Tyrone soccer history, Anthony Politza and Noah D’Angelo, who graduated in 2015.

Senior Captain Aaron Andrews started out as a defender but proved himself a versatile player and ended the season playing midfield. Defensive senior Hunter Jackson provided tough defense and hustle while also being able to help out offensively. Austin Quinn and Austin Taylor, both seniors, provided a much needed boost of energy coming off the bench.

Tyrone’s younger players also stepped up and developed as the season progressed. Sophomore Andrew Pearson emerged as the leading goal scorer for this young group. And freshman Keegan Raabe showed an ability to generate offense while also defending with passion. Tyrone also had an interesting situation at the goalkeeper position. Sophomore Isaac Woomer began the season as the starter but was injured mid season, and freshman Alex Roberts showed proficiency in relief.  This should create a healthy competition between the pair and a solid goaltending duo for next season. 

Veteran leadership again looks to play an important role in the upcoming 2017 season. Juniors and longtime starters Blake Johnston, Ryan Vance, and Asher Christine aim to have impressive senior seasons in 2017 while also mentoring younger players and form a foundation for the future.

Tyrone looks to improve upon this learning year and plan on making the playoffs in the 2017 season.

Team Awards:

Team MVP: Aaron Andrews

Most Improved: Nick Kosko

Gilded Foot: Andrew Pearson

Rookies of the Year: Keegan Raabe, Corey Johnston

Sportsmanship Award: Hunter Jackson

Leadership Award: Blake Johnston

Hustle Award: Austin Quinn