The Benton Central Boy’s Varsity Soccer team fell short in the first round of Sectionals. They lost 2-1 to Crawfordsville after extra time and a heartbreaking round of PKs (penalty kicks) where they were outscored 5-4. Even though BC couldn’t bring home a Sectional championship, their season was still one to remember.
The Bison finished their regular season with a record of 9-7-2 with a 3-1 record against conference opponents. Their 9-win season tied the record for the most wins by a BC Boys’ Soccer team in a single season. That’s an impressive feat! What’s even more impressive is that they had success even after losing five seniors from the previous season. I asked Senior Kolton Watt how they were able to have the success they did this season with the loss of so many talented seniors. Watt said, “We had to learn how to play as a team more than relying on certain people. Playing as a team really helped us to play a more successful brand of soccer.”
Senior Omar Garcia led the Bison in goals this season with 13, Junior Zed Bennett scored 12, followed by Kolton Watt with 7, and Sophomore Rowan Heim, who scored 4. The team combined for an impressive total of 48 goals and 27 assists. While their offense played great, their defense was even better. Benton Central’s defense allowed a mere 20 goals, led by Senior goalie Eli Trahan. There were eight games this year where their defense allowed 0 goals, making it much easier on the offense to secure a victory. When you score 48 goals and only allow 20, you’re set up to have an incredible season.
Although this team was spectacular on the field, the bond they shared is what truly made them great. The common theme you hear from the players and people close to the team is that they are a family. They’re always hanging out after school and encouraging each other to help perform better on the field.
If you blink, you’ll miss it. The soccer season, like most things in life, flew right by. This is the last time the seniors will ever play high school soccer, and it’s a surreal moment for them. Omar Garcia offered some advice about living in the moment: “If I were to give a piece of advice, it would be to enjoy it while it lasts.” It’s evident that this team loved playing together, and they’ll miss the moments of being under the lights. But they’ll always have the memories they made along the way.
Congrats to the Benton Central Boys’ Soccer team on their amazing season, and good luck to the returning players next year!
