The Allen County-Scottsville Patriot soccer program will enter the 20226 season with a larger roster, greater depth and a young group eager to prove it can compete in District and Region play. .
Third-year head coach Josh Rios will guide a 21-player roster this season, an increase from the 15 players who suited up for the Patriots a year ago. Rios views that growth as an important step for a program continuing to build interest and establish a strong foundation for the future.
“We went from 15 players last year to 21 this season, which is a big step forward for our program,” Rios said. “We have eight freshmen coming up from the middle school and a couple of upperclassmen joining us, so we’re building some great depth.”
The Patriots will be younger than many of their opponents, but Rios believes the leadership provided by the team’s experienced players will help the newcomers adjust to varsity soccer.
“Our biggest strength is the leadership from our seniors and juniors,” Rios added. “They’ve done a great job setting the standard and pushing everyone to get better every day.”
The Patriots’ four-player senior class will play an important role in providing stability and leadership. Seniors include Carson Hoskins, Jaydon Stilton, James Hudson, and Jan Lopez.
“Carson Hoskins is entering only his second season of organized soccer but has quickly developed into a dependable defender,” Rios noted. “He’s developed into a fearless defender who’s improving every day. Jaydon n and James will also be important members of the Patriot defense. They play smart, physical soccer and have become leaders in our defense. When you talk about key players, Jan Lopez is the first name that comes to mind. He’ll be a big part of what we do, whether that’s creating chances, scoring goals or leading the attack.”
Rios has also been impressed with Lopez’s commitment and leadership during their time together.
“Jan has been a pleasure to coach over the past couple of seasons,” Rios said. “His technical ability, work ethic and commitment to the team really stand out. I’m looking forward to seeing him, along with our other captains, lead the group this season.”
While Lopez will help direct the offense, the Patriots will rely on their defense to keep them competitive. Rios believes the defensive unit made significant progress during the offseason and has developed greater trust and communication.
“Our defense as a whole will be just as important,” he added. “That group has made tremendous progress this offseason, and they’ve really come together as a unit. I think they’re going to be a real strength for us this year.”
Behind that defense will be freshman goalkeeper Marcus Lee. Despite his age, Lee has already shown Rios that he possesses the confidence and composure needed to handle the position. His performance at the Bluegrass State Games was an encouraging sign of what he may contribute during his first varsity season.
“Even though he’s just a freshman, he’s shown he’s ready for the challenge,” Rios said. “He had an outstanding performance at the Bluegrass State Games, playing with confidence, composure and fearlessness. I’m excited to see what he accomplishes this season, and I think he has a very bright future ahead of him.
The larger roster will allow the Patriots to build depth at several positions while giving younger players valuable experience. Rios expects there will be learning moments throughout the season, but he also believes the combination of senior leadership, an improving defense and talented newcomers will make the Patriots an exciting team to follow.
He hopes the growth of the roster will be matched by increased support from the Allen County community.
“Our soccer program is continuing to grow and heading in a great direction,” Rios explained. “This is an exciting group that’s fun to watch and brings a lot of energy to the field.”
Rios believes the increased attention surrounding soccer following the World Cup provides an opportunity to introduce more young people and families to the local program.
“It’s a great opportunity for our community to support its local high school team and continue building that passion for the game,” Rios said.
The Patriots may be young, but they enter the season with more players, improving depth and a group of upperclassmen determined to establish the standard for the program. For Rios, the goal is not only to win matches this season but also to continue building a program capable of sustained success.
AC-S opens the season on Monday, August 10 with a home match at 5;30 at the Patriot Pitch against Edmonson County.