Boy’s Soccer Kicks Off Their Season

Denver East’s boys soccer team kicked off their season with an impressive 2-1 victory against Battle Mountain on Friday, August 23rd. Finishing second at state last year and first the year before, boys soccer has been a highlight of East’s fall sports. As fans fill the bleachers with excitement for the season, the question remains: can the Angels keep their state finals streak alive?

Photo by Reid Neureiter - Boys State Finals, 2023

The season so far has presented a variety of challenges for the Angels, seen by their first three games which ended in a win, a tie, and a loss. These mixed outcomes now provide opportunities of growth and improvement for the remainder of the season. 

Games against East’s biggest rivals are coming up, such as Denver North, Denver South, and Northfield, and the team is continuously working hard to fine-tune their strategies and improve their overall performance. After a shut-out against Fossil Ridge in a 0-0 tie, the team demonstrated defensive skill; however, they are also aware of the need to convert their defensive strength into offensive opportunities. Clayton Thomas agrees that while the team has potential to go far in playoffs for a third year in a row, “someone's going to need to score a lot of goals this season.” 

With three home games under the belt, it is clear that fans are eager for the season, as demonstrated by the packed bleachers. The enthusiasm not only boosts the players’ confidence, but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead. Clayton Thomas, a senior, states that the student section makes playing easier. “[I]t’s like another form of motivation.”

Home game against Battle Mountain, August 23rd 2024, Red Out “Jesus parts the Red Sea” - Photo by Peyton Mendelsberg

 Prishad Mitchell scored the first goal of the season against Battle Mountain. Now a senior, Prishad has had a successful high school career, supporting the team through two state championships. With optimism for the season, Prishad says, “I think the season will go phenomenally, and even if we don’t get the results we want, we still will play our hearts out.” 

As playoffs approach and the season escalates, the determination of the players and enthusiasm from the fans set the stage for an exciting season ahead. 

Photo by Reid Neureiter - Boys State Finals, 2023