2010 Boys High School Soccer Preview

by dan burda (sports writer dan_b@newsitem.com)

Published: September 2, 2010

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Both Shamokin and Southern Columbia lost the bright stars that defined their soccer programs but are trying to bounce back.

Line Mountain continues the search for its first postseason berth, while North Schuylkill is trying to get back. And Mount Carmel and Lourdes are just looking for a little improvement.

The Indians, who finished second in Division II of the Heartland Conference, move up to Division I but still hope to be competitive as the team continues to learn how to play fast and physically.

They'll also need to replace Chase Gallie, who scored a total of 96 goals in his career.

Indians' head coach Joel Hockenbroch likes what he sees from his squad.

"We look good," Hockenbroch said. "We knew it would be a reshaping process with Chase gone. When he was here they were coached to pass it to him. Now, the ball is moving is moving left-to-right, forward and back. And it's the best our team has looked.

"If we were in Division II we'd be playing for a title, but we're ready to compete. We aren't the favorite but we won't finish last either."

Helping the transition will be the return of all-area players Jon Grybos, who moves to defense from midfield and Mike Slodysko, who has been among the team leaders in assists the last three seasons.

Shamokin also gets the benefit of Lourdes' transfer Jon Vanaskie, who will play forward for the Indians, along with Matt Gass.

Southern has a tall order in replacing three all-area players who helped the Tigers to a 19-1 regular season last year.

However, Dante Anskis, Grant Rarig and Colton Yeick were also all-area players and will aid new head coach Kyle Evans in steering the Tigers back to the playoffs.

"I've been a part of the program as a player and as an assistant coach," Evans said. "Our big goal this year is becoming our own team, to make our own history, stay positive and work with each other."

The job of replacing Kurt Kessler in goal goes to senior Zach Malett. Evans said Malett, a baseball and basketball player, is athletic enough for the position, but just has to get some game experience.

Staying in Division III of the Heartland Conference will allow the Tigers to have some growing pains and still make the playoffs.

Staying in the Heartland Conference,

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