The Cary-Grove boys soccer team knows Fox Valley Conference Valley Division opponents will be targeting it as the two-time defending champion.

While the Trojans lost some key contributors, coach Mark Olson’s squad, which returns four starters, is expected to again be one of the favorites to win the division title.

“It’s a team-first mentality and do whatever’s best for the team,” Olson said. “That’s a huge piece and what we see from our players. It’s their willingness to work day in and day out.”

But the rest of the division won’t make it easy on them. Olson envisions a “very competitive” FVC Valley.

One of those contenders, Prairie Ridge, features plenty of upperclassmen leadership as the Wolves have eight returning starters who are coming off a 5-1 second-place finish last season.

They aren’t resting on last year’s laurels, however. Coach JC Brown said while some players seemed worried coming into the season, practices have reassured the Wolves that this year’s team can be as successful as last season’s and make a deep postseason run.

“The guys are so hard on themselves,” Brown said. “Really, just keep positive and move forward with goals and figure it out and try hard. I’m confident we’ll have another good year.”

Although they had a somewhat down season, Crystal Lake South can’t be overlooked under coach Brian Allen, who said the Gators are young but skillful. In the FVC Fox, Johnsburg is yet again the team to beat after winning three consecutive division titles.

“In all fairness, a lot of our success has come from not going in with that attitude,” Skyhawks coach Rob Eastland said of approaching the season with the goal of winning the FVC Fox. “Winning takes care of itself if we take on all the right things.”

Eastland has found the right formula to push his team each season and nothing different should be expected this year. He doesn’t expect the Skyhawks will have an easy route to another title. Eastland said he cautions his team from expecting to go into any game thinking it will be an easy win.

“I don’t know if there’s going to be a standout team, which makes it really exciting and competitive,” Eastland said. “I don’t see anyone really having that one group of players that’s expected to win. I think it’s going to be a real exciting year.”

Marian Central, under first-year coach Jim Colvin, looks to be competitive in the Suburban Christian Conference Blue Division while Harvard and Richmond-Burton will battle to finish atop the Big Northern Conference East Division.

BOYS SOCCER CAPSULES

Fox Valley Conference

Fox Division

Crystal Lake Central

Coach: Jose Arias (second season)

Last year's record: 3-17-1, 1-5 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Allen Chen, sr., MF; Scott Benhart, sr., MF; Danilo Costa, sr., MF; Zach Peters, sr., MF; Jay DellaMaria, jr., F; Derek Olson, so., D; Jake Sigmund, so., D

Top new players: Lucas Meves, sr., MF; Isaac Herrera, so., F; Warren Sai, jr., MF

Worth noting: The Tigers believe they can improve on last year's performance and will look to their five seniors to lead the way. Central has a good mix of upperclassmen and underclassmen on the roster, including seven returning players. Arias hopes the Tigers make a good run this season.

Johnsburg

Coach: Rob Eastland (ninth season)

Last year's record: 13-4-4, 6-0 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Joe Chamberlain,sr., D; Joe Nikolai, sr., M; Sam Blankenship, jr., GK

Top new players:  Nick Whiting, so., MF; Michael Rackow, so., F; Russell Anderson, so., D; Michael Shelton, so., D

Worth noting: Johnsburg has dominated its conference opponents, compiling a 16-1 record the last three seasons though they have the challenge this year of replacing 10 of 11 starters, but Eastland is optimistic. "[We] are looking as competitive as ever," Eastland said. "We have a lot of players looking to step into roles vacated and make them their own."

Hampshire

Coach: John Gosling (sixth season)

Last year's record: 5-11-3, 1-5 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Paul Novacovici, sr., M/F; Peter Panagakos, jr., D; Andy Pederson, jr., GK; Michael Boutin, so., M/F

Top new players: Jose Hernandez, jr., F; Chris Goc, sr., D

Worth noting: A lack of impact talent last season led to a rough season for Hampshire. But Gosling expects the Whip-Purs to rebound this season and play with more heart on the field with a solid group of upperclassmen complimented by some great underclassmen.

Grayslake Central

Coach: Steve Feldman (first year)

Last year's record: 9-7, 5-1 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Johnny Madrid, jr., MF; Nate Cerquone, sr., MF; Steve Anderson, sr., GK; Isaac Longenecke, jr., D

Top new players: Paul Kulis, so., F; Connor Gosell, so., GK

Worth noting: Adapting to Feldman's style of play as he enters his first season as the Rams' coach is one of the top priorities early. Feldman said his system and style of play isn't too different from what the players are used to, though he advocates possession play, "but with a pace, have more of a purpose with our possession." With a lot of players returning, the Rams are eyeing a conference title.

Grayslake North

Coach: Adam DeCaluwe (eighth season)

Last year: 10-15, 4-2 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Andreas Thedorf, sr., D; Jake Hensley, sr., MF;  Fernando Sanchez, jr., MF

Top new players: JC Thomas, so., D; Kyle Hensley, so., MF; Cole Karabinus, so., F

Worth noting: The Knights graduated nine players from a team that won a regional title for the first time in the program's history, but DeCaluwe will look to the core of returning players combined with young players who have a chance to take on larger roles and build off last season's success. "While we will be young, we expect this group to compete and have a chance in every game we play," DeCaluwe said.

Woodstock

Coach: Mike Golda (fourth season)

Last year's record: 9-12, 2-4 FVC Fox

Top returning players: James Sullivan, sr., D; Caleb Schroeder, jr., MF/F; Jose Gonzalez, jr., MF; Julio Arias, so., F

Top new players: Will Maidment, fr., MF; Matt Shook, fr., D; Andy Dominguez, fr., F

Worth noting: The Blue Streaks have found ways to improve each season under Golda, and he expects the same this year. Although they lost 12 players to graduation, Woodstock returns its second-leading scorer in sophomore Julio Arias and has two three-year varsity players with Jose Gonzalez and Caleb Schroeder. Golda expects seven freshmen will see playing time during the season. "We're looking to mesh the younger kids with the solid core," Golda said. "They look hungry."

Woodstock North

Coach: Lauren Farley (first season)

Last year's record: 10-12-1, 2-4 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Aaron Jones, sr., MF; Cody Kupsic, sr., D; Alejandro Miranda, jr., MF

Top new players: Victor Ortiz, sr., F; Jonathon Glaser, so., MF; Ricky Rodriguez, so., GK

Worth noting: The Thunder will look to control the pace of the game with the return of midfielders Aaron Jones and Alejandro Miranda. While Woodstock North went 2-4 in division play last year, Farley said they were consistently competitive and expects the same this season. "I have high expectations for the season," Farley said. "I imagine we'll do well in the conference. They have been working together all summer, adapting to each other."

Valley Division

Cary-Grove

Coach: Mark Olson (eighth season)

Last year's record: 17-1-2, 6-0 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Kevin Wilde, sr., F; Dale Oppasser, sr., F/MF; Tyler Szydlo, sr., D; Brett Schuerg, so., MF;  Kevin Cooke, sr., F; Joey Klawitter, sr., F;  Josh Gratz, jr., MF; Brad Sigsworth, jr., D; Kevin Budreck, jr., D

Top new players: Luis Palencia, sr., MF/F; Dan Kinnerk, sr., F; Israel Lopez, jr., D/MF

Worth noting: The Trojans have some experienced players returning, including four starters, from a squad that went undefeated in conference play last season. Olson said team chemistry is important, especially when players are willing to put the team first and buy into the philosophy. It's a trait Olson believes he's seen from the team and hopes it translates to success.

Crystal Lake South

Coach: Brian Allen (seventh season)

Last year's record: 11-11-1, 2-4 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Gus Alvarez, sr., GK/MF; Matt Tobolt, sr., F; Orlando Tapia, jr., MF; Charlie Ruff, jr., MF; Bobby Mayer, sr., D; Gary Sexson, sr., D/MF

Top new players:  Jake Canfield, so., D; Mike Woeste, so., MF; Stefan Harris, jr., F

Worth noting: The Gators are looking to improve on a 2-4 record in conference play last season and battle atop the division. "We will be a young, but skillful team with a lot of potential and have quickly formed a solid team chemistry both on and off the field, which will hopefully be the catalyst for our team-oriented style of play on both the attacking and defensive sides of the ball," Allen said.

Dundee-Crown

Coach: Rey Vargas (ninth season)

Last year's record: 16-4-1, 4-2 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Ben Stone, sr., MF; Eduardo Arellano, sr., D; Carlos Ramos, sr., D; Alex Ramirez, sr. MF; Francisco Nava, sr. D; Paul Buch, sr., F

Top new players: William Campos, sr., MF; Jose Gonzalez, jr., GK; Jason Horcher, jr., D

Worth noting: The Chargers' defense should be a strong unit with the return of three senior defenders as they look to contend for the FVC Valley title this season. Senior midfielders Ben Stone and Alex Ramirez and senior forward Paul Buch look to create a potent offensive attack. "Coming off a great run last season, we are looking to continue to be competitive and improve," Vargas said.

Huntley

Coach: Kris Grabner (11th season)

Last year's record: 17-7, 2-4 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Eduardo Gonzalez, sr., CM; Jakub Rys, sr., D; Austen Emery, sr., GK; Jaime Quintana, sr., MF

Top new players: Jack Bessey, fr., MF; Michael Zambruzski, so., MF

Worth noting: The Red Raiders should be a tough team to score against. In addition to the return of defender Jakub Rys, goalkeeper Austen Emery also returns after recording 12 shutouts last season and posting a .810 goals against average. Eduardo Gonzalez scored five goals and tallied eight assists last year, but Huntley will need to find some offense. "This is the deepest, most technical team I have ever had," Grabner said. "If we score goals, we will be very good."

Jacobs

Coach: Anthony Cappello (fifth season)

Last year's record: 10-11, 1-5 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Tim Hubner, sr. F; Austin Ryan, sr., MF; Nick Paganucci, sr., D

Top new players: Ean Wilson, so., MF; Daniel Kim, so., MF; Nick Voss, so., MF

Worth noting: Cappello will rely on his senior returners to improve on last season. With at least one key returner at the forward, midfield and defender positions, Jacobs has pieces to build around. The Eagles will look to battle last year's top teams in the FVC Valley and move into the upper echelon of the division.

McHenry

Coach: Tony Caruso (16th year)

Last year's record: 1-9-1, 2-4 FVC Valley

Top returners: Evan Hying, sr., D; Frankie Valle, sr., GK; Mike Lawrence, sr., D; Nick Almazan, sr., MF; Luis Beltran, so., F; Geronimo Hernandez, so., MF

Top New Players: Richie Boettcher, fr., GK; Alex Lee, fr., D; Carlos Duran, fr., MF

Worth Noting: With a mix of young and experienced players, the Warriors look to jell as the season progresses. Evan Hying and Frankie Valle are expected to be a strength as they anchor the defensive effort on a team "with great attitudes who have been a pleasure to coach," Caruso said.

Prairie Ridge

Coach:  JC Brown (third season)

Last year's record:  13-7-2, 5-1 FVC Valley

Top returning players:  Mike Perhats, sr., MF; Nick McCann, sr., MF; Nic Hoklas, jr., MF; Josh Reichert, jr., F; Sam Reynolds, jr., MF; Zach Rietz, so., D

Top new players: Tanner Danek, sr., MF; Adolfo Baca, so., MF

Worth Noting: After finishing second in the conference last season, the Wolves have set higher expectations for this year. Brown said the Wolves boast "great upperclassmen leadership, speed and talent" and look to improve on last year's record while winning a conference title and making a deep postseason run.

Big Northern Conference

East Division

Harvard

Coach: David Abel (13th season)

Top returning: Angel Sanchez, sr., MF; Jose Ortiz, sr., GK; Cristian Juarez, sr., D; Jerry Martinez, jr., MF

Top new players: Fernando Mercado, jr., MF; Pedro Guzman, so., F

Worth noting: Harvard lost five starters from last year and will need senior leadership to come through this season. Abel believes the Hornets should be a good passing team, which will be an asset. "We always want to build on things, try to improve," Abel said. "I think our seniors and our captains are getting these guys ready and hopefully we're ready to compete."

Marengo

Coach: Jim McKinnon (fifth season)

Last year's record: 4-16-1, 2-9-1 BNC East

Top returning players: Miguel Cortez, sr., MF; Alexis Noriega, sr., MF; Rob Proffitt, sr., D; John Beldin, sr., F; Jason Wonneberger, sr., D

Top new players: Mike Vega Perez, fr., D

Worth noting: Marengo will have a core of seniors featuring Miguel Cortez, a four-year varsity starter, and Alexis Noriega, a three-year varsity starter, in the midfield. Freshman Mike Vega Perez will have an opportunity to make his mark as he joins the varsity squad as Marengo looks to compete atop the BNC East this season. The Indians open their season against Crystal Lake South.

Richmond-Burton

Coach: Adam DeCaluwe (third season)

Last year's record: 13-8-2, 8-3-2 BNC East

Top returning players: Luis Perez, jr., GK; Connor McCrory, sr., MF; Dominick Burlini, jr., D; Casey DeLucia, sr., MF

Top new players: Matt Micholloti, sr., F

Worth noting: With unanimous All-BNC goalkeeper Luis Perez back in net for the Rockets, opponents should have a hard time scoring against R-B. Connor McCrory and Casey DeLucia anchor the midfield as the Rockets battle for the BNC East title after finishing third last season.

Suburban Christian
Conference

Blue Division

Marian Central

Coach: Jim Colvin (first season)

Last year's record: 3-11-1

Top returning players: Riley Blaz, sr., MF; Hunter Ladas, jr., MF; Jordan Peterson, jr., D; Connor Hull, jr., F; Patrick Majener, jr., F

Top new players: Fernando Tapia, so., F; Bryan Hart, so., MF; Jake Higgins, so., GK

Worth noting: While Marian Central is a young team, Colvin expects the Hurricanes to have a pretty successful team. The Hurricanes should develop and come together during the season as they get used to playing together. "I think we'll tend be a counter attacking team and a team that tries to play possession," Colvin said.

By MEGHAN MONTEMURRO - mmontemurro@shawmedia.com

The Cary-Grove boys soccer team knows Fox Valley Conference Valley Division opponents will be targeting it as the two-time defending champion.

While the Trojans lost some key contributors, coach Mark Olson’s squad, which returns four starters, is expected to again be one of the favorites to win the division title.

“It’s a team-first mentality and do whatever’s best for the team,” Olson said. “That’s a huge piece and what we see from our players. It’s their willingness to work day in and day out.”

But the rest of the division won’t make it easy on them. Olson envisions a “very competitive” FVC Valley.

One of those contenders, Prairie Ridge, features plenty of upperclassmen leadership as the Wolves have eight returning starters who are coming off a 5-1 second-place finish last season.

They aren’t resting on last year’s laurels, however. Coach JC Brown said while some players seemed worried coming into the season, practices have reassured the Wolves that this year’s team can be as successful as last season’s and make a deep postseason run.

“The guys are so hard on themselves,” Brown said. “Really, just keep positive and move forward with goals and figure it out and try hard. I’m confident we’ll have another good year.”

Although they had a somewhat down season, Crystal Lake South can’t be overlooked under coach Brian Allen, who said the Gators are young but skillful. In the FVC Fox, Johnsburg is yet again the team to beat after winning three consecutive division titles.

“In all fairness, a lot of our success has come from not going in with that attitude,” Skyhawks coach Rob Eastland said of approaching the season with the goal of winning the FVC Fox. “Winning takes care of itself if we take on all the right things.”

Eastland has found the right formula to push his team each season and nothing different should be expected this year. He doesn’t expect the Skyhawks will have an easy route to another title. Eastland said he cautions his team from expecting to go into any game thinking it will be an easy win.

“I don’t know if there’s going to be a standout team, which makes it really exciting and competitive,” Eastland said. “I don’t see anyone really having that one group of players that’s expected to win. I think it’s going to be a real exciting year.”

Marian Central, under first-year coach Jim Colvin, looks to be competitive in the Suburban Christian Conference Blue Division while Harvard and Richmond-Burton will battle to finish atop the Big Northern Conference East Division.

BOYS SOCCER CAPSULES

Fox Valley Conference

Fox Division

Crystal Lake Central

Coach: Jose Arias (second season)

Last year's record: 3-17-1, 1-5 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Allen Chen, sr., MF; Scott Benhart, sr., MF; Danilo Costa, sr., MF; Zach Peters, sr., MF; Jay DellaMaria, jr., F; Derek Olson, so., D; Jake Sigmund, so., D

Top new players: Lucas Meves, sr., MF; Isaac Herrera, so., F; Warren Sai, jr., MF

Worth noting: The Tigers believe they can improve on last year's performance and will look to their five seniors to lead the way. Central has a good mix of upperclassmen and underclassmen on the roster, including seven returning players. Arias hopes the Tigers make a good run this season.

Johnsburg

Coach: Rob Eastland (ninth season)

Last year's record: 13-4-4, 6-0 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Joe Chamberlain,sr., D; Joe Nikolai, sr., M; Sam Blankenship, jr., GK

Top new players:  Nick Whiting, so., MF; Michael Rackow, so., F; Russell Anderson, so., D; Michael Shelton, so., D

Worth noting: Johnsburg has dominated its conference opponents, compiling a 16-1 record the last three seasons though they have the challenge this year of replacing 10 of 11 starters, but Eastland is optimistic. "[We] are looking as competitive as ever," Eastland said. "We have a lot of players looking to step into roles vacated and make them their own."

Hampshire

Coach: John Gosling (sixth season)

Last year's record: 5-11-3, 1-5 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Paul Novacovici, sr., M/F; Peter Panagakos, jr., D; Andy Pederson, jr., GK; Michael Boutin, so., M/F

Top new players: Jose Hernandez, jr., F; Chris Goc, sr., D

Worth noting: A lack of impact talent last season led to a rough season for Hampshire. But Gosling expects the Whip-Purs to rebound this season and play with more heart on the field with a solid group of upperclassmen complimented by some great underclassmen.

Grayslake Central

Coach: Steve Feldman (first year)

Last year's record: 9-7, 5-1 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Johnny Madrid, jr., MF; Nate Cerquone, sr., MF; Steve Anderson, sr., GK; Isaac Longenecke, jr., D

Top new players: Paul Kulis, so., F; Connor Gosell, so., GK

Worth noting: Adapting to Feldman's style of play as he enters his first season as the Rams' coach is one of the top priorities early. Feldman said his system and style of play isn't too different from what the players are used to, though he advocates possession play, "but with a pace, have more of a purpose with our possession." With a lot of players returning, the Rams are eyeing a conference title.

Grayslake North

Coach: Adam DeCaluwe (eighth season)

Last year: 10-15, 4-2 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Andreas Thedorf, sr., D; Jake Hensley, sr., MF;  Fernando Sanchez, jr., MF

Top new players: JC Thomas, so., D; Kyle Hensley, so., MF; Cole Karabinus, so., F

Worth noting: The Knights graduated nine players from a team that won a regional title for the first time in the program's history, but DeCaluwe will look to the core of returning players combined with young players who have a chance to take on larger roles and build off last season's success. "While we will be young, we expect this group to compete and have a chance in every game we play," DeCaluwe said.

Woodstock

Coach: Mike Golda (fourth season)

Last year's record: 9-12, 2-4 FVC Fox

Top returning players: James Sullivan, sr., D; Caleb Schroeder, jr., MF/F; Jose Gonzalez, jr., MF; Julio Arias, so., F

Top new players: Will Maidment, fr., MF; Matt Shook, fr., D; Andy Dominguez, fr., F

Worth noting: The Blue Streaks have found ways to improve each season under Golda, and he expects the same this year. Although they lost 12 players to graduation, Woodstock returns its second-leading scorer in sophomore Julio Arias and has two three-year varsity players with Jose Gonzalez and Caleb Schroeder. Golda expects seven freshmen will see playing time during the season. "We're looking to mesh the younger kids with the solid core," Golda said. "They look hungry."

Woodstock North

Coach: Lauren Farley (first season)

Last year's record: 10-12-1, 2-4 FVC Fox

Top returning players: Aaron Jones, sr., MF; Cody Kupsic, sr., D; Alejandro Miranda, jr., MF

Top new players: Victor Ortiz, sr., F; Jonathon Glaser, so., MF; Ricky Rodriguez, so., GK

Worth noting: The Thunder will look to control the pace of the game with the return of midfielders Aaron Jones and Alejandro Miranda. While Woodstock North went 2-4 in division play last year, Farley said they were consistently competitive and expects the same this season. "I have high expectations for the season," Farley said. "I imagine we'll do well in the conference. They have been working together all summer, adapting to each other."

Valley Division

Cary-Grove

Coach: Mark Olson (eighth season)

Last year's record: 17-1-2, 6-0 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Kevin Wilde, sr., F; Dale Oppasser, sr., F/MF; Tyler Szydlo, sr., D; Brett Schuerg, so., MF;  Kevin Cooke, sr., F; Joey Klawitter, sr., F;  Josh Gratz, jr., MF; Brad Sigsworth, jr., D; Kevin Budreck, jr., D

Top new players: Luis Palencia, sr., MF/F; Dan Kinnerk, sr., F; Israel Lopez, jr., D/MF

Worth noting: The Trojans have some experienced players returning, including four starters, from a squad that went undefeated in conference play last season. Olson said team chemistry is important, especially when players are willing to put the team first and buy into the philosophy. It's a trait Olson believes he's seen from the team and hopes it translates to success.

Crystal Lake South

Coach: Brian Allen (seventh season)

Last year's record: 11-11-1, 2-4 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Gus Alvarez, sr., GK/MF; Matt Tobolt, sr., F; Orlando Tapia, jr., MF; Charlie Ruff, jr., MF; Bobby Mayer, sr., D; Gary Sexson, sr., D/MF

Top new players:  Jake Canfield, so., D; Mike Woeste, so., MF; Stefan Harris, jr., F

Worth noting: The Gators are looking to improve on a 2-4 record in conference play last season and battle atop the division. "We will be a young, but skillful team with a lot of potential and have quickly formed a solid team chemistry both on and off the field, which will hopefully be the catalyst for our team-oriented style of play on both the attacking and defensive sides of the ball," Allen said.

Dundee-Crown

Coach: Rey Vargas (ninth season)

Last year's record: 16-4-1, 4-2 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Ben Stone, sr., MF; Eduardo Arellano, sr., D; Carlos Ramos, sr., D; Alex Ramirez, sr. MF; Francisco Nava, sr. D; Paul Buch, sr., F

Top new players: William Campos, sr., MF; Jose Gonzalez, jr., GK; Jason Horcher, jr., D

Worth noting: The Chargers' defense should be a strong unit with the return of three senior defenders as they look to contend for the FVC Valley title this season. Senior midfielders Ben Stone and Alex Ramirez and senior forward Paul Buch look to create a potent offensive attack. "Coming off a great run last season, we are looking to continue to be competitive and improve," Vargas said.

Huntley

Coach: Kris Grabner (11th season)

Last year's record: 17-7, 2-4 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Eduardo Gonzalez, sr., CM; Jakub Rys, sr., D; Austen Emery, sr., GK; Jaime Quintana, sr., MF

Top new players: Jack Bessey, fr., MF; Michael Zambruzski, so., MF

Worth noting: The Red Raiders should be a tough team to score against. In addition to the return of defender Jakub Rys, goalkeeper Austen Emery also returns after recording 12 shutouts last season and posting a .810 goals against average. Eduardo Gonzalez scored five goals and tallied eight assists last year, but Huntley will need to find some offense. "This is the deepest, most technical team I have ever had," Grabner said. "If we score goals, we will be very good."

Jacobs

Coach: Anthony Cappello (fifth season)

Last year's record: 10-11, 1-5 FVC Valley

Top returning players: Tim Hubner, sr. F; Austin Ryan, sr., MF; Nick Paganucci, sr., D

Top new players: Ean Wilson, so., MF; Daniel Kim, so., MF; Nick Voss, so., MF

Worth noting: Cappello will rely on his senior returners to improve on last season. With at least one key returner at the forward, midfield and defender positions, Jacobs has pieces to build around. The Eagles will look to battle last year's top teams in the FVC Valley and move into the upper echelon of the division.

McHenry

Coach: Tony Caruso (16th year)

Last year's record: 1-9-1, 2-4 FVC Valley

Top returners: Evan Hying, sr., D; Frankie Valle, sr., GK; Mike Lawrence, sr., D; Nick Almazan, sr., MF; Luis Beltran, so., F; Geronimo Hernandez, so., MF

Top New Players: Richie Boettcher, fr., GK; Alex Lee, fr., D; Carlos Duran, fr., MF

Worth Noting: With a mix of young and experienced players, the Warriors look to jell as the season progresses. Evan Hying and Frankie Valle are expected to be a strength as they anchor the defensive effort on a team "with great attitudes who have been a pleasure to coach," Caruso said.

Prairie Ridge

Coach:  JC Brown (third season)

Last year's record:  13-7-2, 5-1 FVC Valley

Top returning players:  Mike Perhats, sr., MF; Nick McCann, sr., MF; Nic Hoklas, jr., MF; Josh Reichert, jr., F; Sam Reynolds, jr., MF; Zach Rietz, so., D

Top new players: Tanner Danek, sr., MF; Adolfo Baca, so., MF

Worth Noting: After finishing second in the conference last season, the Wolves have set higher expectations for this year. Brown said the Wolves boast "great upperclassmen leadership, speed and talent" and look to improve on last year's record while winning a conference title and making a deep postseason run.

Big Northern Conference

East Division

Harvard

Coach: David Abel (13th season)

Top returning: Angel Sanchez, sr., MF; Jose Ortiz, sr., GK; Cristian Juarez, sr., D; Jerry Martinez, jr., MF

Top new players: Fernando Mercado, jr., MF; Pedro Guzman, so., F

Worth noting: Harvard lost five starters from last year and will need senior leadership to come through this season. Abel believes the Hornets should be a good passing team, which will be an asset. "We always want to build on things, try to improve," Abel said. "I think our seniors and our captains are getting these guys ready and hopefully we're ready to compete."

Marengo

Coach: Jim McKinnon (fifth season)

Last year's record: 4-16-1, 2-9-1 BNC East

Top returning players: Miguel Cortez, sr., MF; Alexis Noriega, sr., MF; Rob Proffitt, sr., D; John Beldin, sr., F; Jason Wonneberger, sr., D

Top new players: Mike Vega Perez, fr., D

Worth noting: Marengo will have a core of seniors featuring Miguel Cortez, a four-year varsity starter, and Alexis Noriega, a three-year varsity starter, in the midfield. Freshman Mike Vega Perez will have an opportunity to make his mark as he joins the varsity squad as Marengo looks to compete atop the BNC East this season. The Indians open their season against Crystal Lake South.

Richmond-Burton

Coach: Adam DeCaluwe (third season)

Last year's record: 13-8-2, 8-3-2 BNC East

Top returning players: Luis Perez, jr., GK; Connor McCrory, sr., MF; Dominick Burlini, jr., D; Casey DeLucia, sr., MF

Top new players: Matt Micholloti, sr., F

Worth noting: With unanimous All-BNC goalkeeper Luis Perez back in net for the Rockets, opponents should have a hard time scoring against R-B. Connor McCrory and Casey DeLucia anchor the midfield as the Rockets battle for the BNC East title after finishing third last season.

Suburban Christian
Conference

Blue Division

Marian Central

Coach: Jim Colvin (first season)

Last year's record: 3-11-1

Top returning players: Riley Blaz, sr., MF; Hunter Ladas, jr., MF; Jordan Peterson, jr., D; Connor Hull, jr., F; Patrick Majener, jr., F

Top new players: Fernando Tapia, so., F; Bryan Hart, so., MF; Jake Higgins, so., GK

Worth noting: While Marian Central is a young team, Colvin expects the Hurricanes to have a pretty successful team. The Hurricanes should develop and come together during the season as they get used to playing together. "I think we'll tend be a counter attacking team and a team that tries to play possession," Colvin said.