Webb City’s boys soccer team has experience and depth entering the 2022 season.
The Cardinals return 10 athletes with previous varsity experience and also have a large group of promising newcomers who will provide needed depth in the always-tough Central Ozark Conference.
“Our strengths are that we have a lot more depth than we’ve had in previous years,” Webb City coach Nick Harmon said. “Our upperclassmen are experienced at the varsity level and we have options at each position. The team is very excited for the upcoming season. We have high expectations for our performance, day in and day out.”
Webb City’s returning letterwinners are senior forward/midfielder Alex Flores, senior goalie Connor Black, junior forward Joseph Wermuth, junior forward/midfielder Josh White, junior midfielder Luis Gallardo, junior defenders Jadon Brisco, Trevor Peterson and Brayden Brockmiller, sophomore forward/midfielder Kaulden Hood and sophomore goalkeeper Kade Weston.
Flores earned all-district and all-conference recognition last season after scoring 13 goals to go along with 10 assists.
Gallardo and Wermuth earned all-district honors in ’21.
Harmon noted the team features 15 freshmen and several other newcomers. With that, there is currently a lot of competition for the varsity positions.
“Several of our new players have played at higher levels and we’re excited to see how the competition for playing time and positions will unfold,” Harmon said.
With a large group of returning performers and newcomers, Harmon is definitely optimistic about the team’s chances for success this fall. One main goal for the group would be securing a district championship.
“I expect to have a successful season where our players work hard for each other each day in training and in games,” Harmon said.
Harmon is confident the Cardinals will make steady progress throughout the season. There are a few keys to making that happen, he added.
“Playing a full 80 minutes as a cohesive unit throughout all phases of the game is key,” Harmon said. “We have to stay committed to putting all the pieces together as the season unfolds. Keys to success this year are staying healthy. Also, staying motivated to work hard every day and push ourselves to improve throughout the duration of the season.”
The Cardinals lost four starters to graduation—midfielders Tristan Barroeta and Angel Gallegos, forward Mareus Mask and defender Hasten Hardy.
Webb City went 12-9 last season, four wins better than the previous season. The Cardinals won the Parkview Tournament and won a district tournament contest before falling to Bolivar in the district semifinals.
Webb City will begin the 2022 season on Aug. 30 at Carl Junction. The team’s first home date is Sept. 1 against Monett.
