After an up and down season and a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to the crosstown rivals, the Sequoits boys varsity soccer team is currently gearing up and preparing for what appears to be an extremely promising season. But while there will be many returning faces to the team this year, one key position will be filled by someone new: the coach.

After ten years, over 100 wins, two regional championships and one sectional championship, Coach Marni Polakow has retired from coaching operations and new head coach Michael McDermott is ready to carry on the program’s legacy.

However, the players have moved on from the past and are all focusing on the future. To see what this season has in store, just ask senior mid-fielder Alex Keeler.

“I am looking forward to bringing the team together and having a successful and enjoyable season,” Keeler said. “I am looking forward to playing Lakes the most, as it is always intense and I am friends with most of the guys on the other team.”

Keeler has set some great goals for the season. Looking to win regionals as a team, as well as aiming for all-area and all-conference, Keeler is ready to make this his best season yet.

Sophomore defender Aidan Trusky shares similar goals to Keeler.

“I’m looking forward to be out there playing soccer everyday,” Trusky said. “I’m of course most excited to play Lakes.”

When it comes to goals for the season, Trusky aims to become a consistent starter and win regionals.

Many of the parents share the same goals as the players do. Trusky’’s mother, Julie Trusky, is looking forward to see how the team develops this year.

“I hope to see the team come together and have selfless play,” J. Trusky said. “I want to see leadership and see the players continue to improve.”

With the game everyone is looking forward to, Lakes, happening on Tuesday, September 25, and other notable games being Grayslake Central on Thursday, September 27, and Grayslake North on Thursday, September 20; the season is shaping up to be a very promising one on the pitch.

Despite all the unknowns of the coming season, one thing is for sure: the Sequoit soccer team is ready to play this upcoming fall.