Boys Soccer
If the Lyons Township soccer team falls short of its rather lofty aspiration of winning a state championship this season, a lack of off-season preparation certainly won’t fly as an excuse. Several returning players, who guided the Lions to an 18-5 record last year, joined top club teams this summer to gear up for the regular season.
Juniors Billy McGuinness and Chris Meingast played for the highly regarded Magic Academy team this summer. Bolstered by the play of the Lions’ two stellar defenders, the Magic Academy won its division en route to a national tournament appearance in Los Angeles-where the club finished among the top eight academy teams in the country.
“Billy is one of the best players in the state,” said Lyons Township coach Paul Labbato. “He is a very knowledgeable player and a great facilitator on the field. Chris is a great all-around player who can contribute as a midfielder and goal scorer.”
Junior midfielder Brian Heimerdinger gained valuable experience with the Chicago Fire Academy, while sophomore forward Horacio Sanchez saw action with the Chicago Fire Under-15 juniors. As a freshman, the promising Sanchez started several games for the Lions’ senior-laden team.
Lyons lost several players to graduation last spring, most notably Mike Schreiber, Robbie Johnson, Tyler Kuehn, Matt Solik and Andy Kelly. The Lions fell 1-0 to West Suburban (Silver) Conference rival Hinsdale Central in its own sectional championship last year.
Fortunately, Stefan Luetkehans and Kyle Magnesen return as a strong tandem of seniors focused on building off last year’s successful run.
Kyle Kurfirst headlines a talented group of underclassmen (the sophomore team went 21-4 last year), who should add depth and versatility.
Depth may be necessary luxury for LT considering its daunting schedule. The Lions take on conference rivals Hinsdale Central and Oak Park, coupled with clashes against state runner-up Neuqua Valley, Morton and Argo. The Lions will also host the prestigious Pepsi Showdown (Sept. 9-20).
“Any team we play in the West Suburban Silver is tough,” Labbato said. “We play a top-notch schedule. Every year our expectation is to win a state championship; we want to compete for it.”
The Lions kick-off their season against Sandburg today at their North Campus.