The Huron Men’s Varsity Soccer team brought home the District Championship on Thursday night, defeating crosstown rival Pioneer 2–1 in a high-energy match on their home field. The stands were packed as the final whistle blew, and the crowd erupted, rushing to the fence as the team sprinted toward them in celebration.
Senior Kinley Poole led Huron’s offense, scoring both goals for the River Rats. The second came late in the second half and put Huron back in the lead to secure the title.
“I felt like ‘him,’” Poole said, recalling his goal. “I was on the attack and I gave my teammate ‘the look.’ He played it over because I knew I had the advantage. When the keeper cheated out, I tried to play it in, and it went right over the keeper. After, I ran to the stands getting everyone hype.”
For Poole, the performance meant more than just two goals. “I feel like I had to do it for the team,” he said. “Having a slow middle part of the season because of football, I felt like I had to come back and show them that I’m ready for playoffs.”
While the spotlight often shines on scorers, Huron’s depth has been a key to its success, including players who don’t always see the field. Backup goalkeeper senior Thomas Ewy emphasized the unity that defines the team.
“To be able to win districts with this team is an amazing feeling,” Ewy said. “We’ve all worked so hard to accomplish this, and it feels so good to see our hard work pay off. The other backup keeper and I try to keep the team hyped up, especially in rivalry games like this one.”
“One thing people don’t see about this team is the work we put in behind the scenes,” Ewy said. “We practice almost every day to make sure we’re all at the top of our game.”
The victory was more than a scoreboard result. It was the combination of months of effort and teamwork. For the seniors, it marks a defining moment in their high school careers. Next up, Huron advances to regional play, hoping to extend their postseason run and bring even more trophies home. This game will be on Oct. 21 at Saline High School and tickets can be purchased on GoFan.
