Season preview: DuKane Conference
By Steve Nemeth
There was no memo circulated, but all the DuKane Conference girls soccer coaches sounded as if they received a list of talking points.
If not the same exact words, the adjectives, descriptions, and outlook for year two of the DKC was like an echo whether the speaker was Batavia’s Mark Gianfrancesco, Geneva’s Megan Owens, Glenbard North’s David Stanfield, Lake Park’s Sean Crosby, St. Charles East’s Vince DiNuzzo, St. Charles North’s Brian Harks, Wheaton North’s Tim McEvilly or Wheaton Warrenville South’s Guy Callipari.
Here is an amalgamated quote for season two from the coaches:
“Top to bottom the DKC: (no. 1) will be more challenging, competitive, a battle, always a test, no easy matches, can’t ever sleep on anyone; (no. 2) the quality of talent, depth, skill and hunger is obvious, evident, tremendous, unlimited; and (no. 3) every program is motivated, improved, capable, well-coached and well-organized.”
And all hope the Coronavirus issue can be brought under control so the season can safely begin at some point this spring.
The teams’ numbers vary when it comes to starters back, returning players, and potential impactful newcomers, but the expectation and potential exists for every school to improve as the season unfolds.
Although no one is counted out, a few subtle thoughts may hint at what is expected.
“The Tri-Cities teams are always at the top of the mix because they’ve got three good clubs to draw from,” veteran Wheaton Warrenville South coach Callipari noted. “The Wheaton Wings, and even Kopion (clubs) are starting to get off the ground. We don’t have the split in numbers for three distinct rosters (varsity, JV1 and JV2).”
“If it’s not the best conference it’s one of the best, because there’s so much talent,” noted Wheaton North’s McEvilly. “St. Charles East has the best player (Ellie McCaslin) in Illinois back (2019 IHSSCA Player of the Year). Across town (SC) North always has a stable lineup with great confidence, Batavia is a defending co-champ. Seriously, you can’t sleep on anyone.”
Batavia’s Gianfrancesco has always viewed that conference play is a means to an end, namely preparing a team for postseason success. “And there’s no better means than the DKC,” he said.
While Batavia shared the inaugural 2019 crown with East, Saints coach Vince DiNuzzo acknowledges the elephant in the room. Three of the Saints’ six losses came courtesy of the rival North Stars. “No matter how many times we meet, for us to reach our goals we have to beat them, and that’s a credit to (head coach) Brian (Harks), (assistant) Eric (Willson) and all their kids.”
Add that as yet another defining characteristic of the DKC: mutual respect.
Here are capsules of the teams:
Batavia
Coach: Mark Gianfrancesco (9th year with BHS girls / 21st as head coach)
2019 record: 17-5-2 (6-1-0 DKC tie, 1st)
Will miss: Anne Holcombe (F / CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Jenna Nichols (D / CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Zaire Solis (D / CS SM), CeCe Hamann (F), Taylor Fleury (D), Rachel Polignone (D).
Key returnees: Grace Salyers (Jr., F / All-DKC, CS WL), Abby Zipse (Sr., M / All-DKC, CS WL), Hailey Flannagan (Sr., GK / IHSSCA HM Sec 3), Chloe Valentino (Sr., MF), Bella Zink (Sr., MF), Ashley Whelpley (Jr.), Aubrey Hahn (So., GK).
Outlook: While singer Meghan Trainor was “all about that bass”, Mark Gianfrancesco has consistently been all about the postseason. Yet even the longtime Batavia boys and girls head man had to admit some satisfaction when his 2019 Bulldogs claimed a share of the inaugural DuKane girls soccer title. But his grin was wider after Batavia edged Tri-Cities foe Geneva (1-0) for a regional championship. Outside of Gianfrancesco’s initial year, his Bulldog girls have reached eight-straight regional title games and this last one was the third plaque in his tenure. and fourth all-time for the school. “Conference play is a means to an end,” Gianfrancesco said once again in viewing the rugged league slate as the ultimate preparation for postseason. However, he is equally insistent whatever happened in a prior year guarantees nothing for the next campaign. “We had a good run but if anything can help us to be better. it might be being more experienced. We always stress the importance of team chemistry, being mentally ready, and the need to be competitive in training, practice and games. Hopefully our experience gives us a better understanding of what made 2019 successful. It’s up to the seniors and (seven) starters back to steer the ship correctly.” Look to All-DKC honorees Abby Zipse (4g / Northern Illinois commit) and Grace Salyers (10g-4a) to do that. The duo were 2019 Chicagoland Soccer Watch List junior and sophomore picks, respectively. Seniors Chloe Valentino (6g/1a) and Bella Zink (2g-4a / UW-Parkside) plus junior Ashley Whelpley are unheralded veterans along with the goalie duo of senior Hailey Flannagan (Illinois Institute of Technology) and sophomore Aubrey Hahn, who combined for 13 shared shutouts, tying them for 34th in state rankings for shutouts with 6.5 apiece. Depth will come from senior Hailey Skupa who has chosen to return to prep play, a quintet of talented sophomores, plus a freshman with a well-known Batavia surname: Riley DiBiase.
Geneva
Coach: Megan Owens (12th year at GHS / 16th as head coach)
2019 record: 11-6 -2 (4-3-0 DKC 4th)
Will miss: Jenna Dominguez (F / CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3), All-DKC), Katie Cannon (D / CS SM, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Sydney Gratz (MF / CS SM, IHSSCA HM Sec 3), Caitlin Farell (F / CS SM), Stephanie Howe (MF / CS SM).
Key returnees: Katie Montgomery (Sr., GK / CS WL, All-DKC), Annalise Spindle (Sr., M / CS WL), Annie Brolly (Jr., D), Chloe Frison (Sr., D).
Outlook: Although coach Megan Owens admitted “We graduated a tremendous amount of talent, including our entire starting offense” (a group that includes five players with postseason honors), perhaps a rendition of “Don’t Cry For Me DKC” fits. “We have 16 returning players and have added some talented new players,” Owens noted. “The leadership of the 12 seniors on this team will be key ... so I wouldn’t count us out, especially with our record of success.” Especially when there are six institutions who will welcome Vikings to their ranks after graduation. Start off with one of the state’s top 50 keepers in terms of goals-against-average (no. 47 at 1.429 from the Chicagoland Soccer stat leaders list) in senior Katie Montgomery (CS WL, the only goalie to earn All-DKC), a Division I signee by Missouri State. The question to be answered for Geneva is which player or combination of players can replace or exceed the 70 percent of the offense that was created by the top-four graduated point producers (CS All-State and All-DKC Jenna Dominguez 18g-6a; and CS special mention honorees Caitlin Farrell 15g-3a; Stephanie Howe 7g-14a and Sydney Gratz 4g-9a). Eager to continue the Vikings legacy before moving on are Paige MacRitchie (Nova Southeastern), Alicia White (Grand Valley State), Morgot Yelle (UW-Parkside), Katie Desens (Carthage), Lindsay Ferris (Waubonsee CC), plus Annalise Spindle, a CS Watch List pick who is still weighing her options. An interesting statistical side note in relation to the aforementioned 2019 offensive firepower: last year’s team was one shy of the 2018 victory tally, but matched the prior unit in goals with 58. However, Geneva gave up five fewer goals last season and five-of-six losses came by a single goal. The bulk of those defenders are back for 2020 including CS Special Mention back Katie Cannon). While Owens traditionally emphasizes the team and plays it close to the vest, she is convinced her senior starters are ready to step up and contribute. She also anticipated help from varsity newcomers Alicia White and Kiki Lappin.
Glenbard North
Coach: David Stanfield (15th year at GNHS)
2018 record: 3-14-2 (0-7-0 DVC 8th)
Will miss: Hannah Arista (D / All-DVC), Jacqueline Arroyo (D / IHSSCA HM Sec. 3), Karissa Chalus (GK).
Key returnees: Anna Pedraza (Jr., D / All-DVC in 2018), Perla Kamami (Sr., MF), Olivia Corona (Jr., MF), Anna Pedraza (Jr., D), Alexis Stone (So., D), Criselle Culhi (So., F-MF), Teagan Flanagan (Jr., MF), Payton Crawford (So., F-MF).
Season outlook: Glenbard North coach David Stanfield knows the game well and is realistic about the Panthers continuing to make progress as a program. “Whether it was the DuPage Valley or now the DuKane, conference play provides a steep learning curve. We need to develop our chemistry during the nonconference schedule in order to stay as competitive as possible in all the league matches,” Stanfield said. “Although we lack the numbers we’d prefer, I think the experience our returnees bring back will be a big help. This is a very coachable group that has shown itself to be receptive to learning.” In 2019, the Panthers got off to a 2-3-2 start, but then went winless in the rugged DKC slate during a 10-game losing streak that saw North outscored 46-1. However, Glenbard North ended that skid with a 2-0 regional quarterfinal win over Addison Trail. Perla Kamami had a goal and an assist backed by a goal from Payton Crawford and an assist from Teagan Flanagan. Kamami, a senior captain, tops a list of six returning starters. Stanfield has a defensive line anchor in Alexis Stone, who earned 2019 MVP accolades as a freshman. He counts on the experience of Kamami plus juniors Olivia Corona – a third-year starter – and Anna Pedraza. Stanfield anticipates more production from sophomore Criselle Culhi.
Lake Park
Coach: Sean Crosby (4th year at LPHS)
2019 record: 4-17-2 (1-6-0 DKC 7th)
Will miss: Sarah Yochem (GK), Selena Catalano (F)
Key returnees: Emma Thorne (Jr., D / All-DKC), AnnMarie Ahrens (Jr., MF), Olivia Wroblewski (Sr., D), Sarah Novak (Sr., D), Sophie Giron (Sr., D), Lilli Giron (Sr., F-MF)
Season outlook: On paper, Lake Park’s progress in 2019 was incremental – a first conference win in three seasons (the initial year in the DuKane Conference and two prior in the DuPage Valley). On the field, coach Sean Crosby saw a lot more growth and promise. “We really learned that we’re not only able to keep matches close but really compete.” Using a roster comprised of nearly half freshmen and sophomores, the 4-17-2 Lancers had seven 1-0 defeats. They allowed three or more goals in only four outings. “As was the case in the DVC, there is not an easy game in the DuKane,” said Crosby, who noted his players redoubled their effort. “I’ve seen a massive push for greater fitness and a level of unselfish to go with a major increase in work ethic.” Having eight returning starters deserving of praise is almost a new adjective for LP’s program. Fresh from helping Lake Park take fourth in the Class 4A state basketball tourney, Emma Thorne headlines the roster as an All-DKC and IHSSCA Honorable Mention Section 3 selection. “We’re talking a tenacious defender, fierce competitor, high IQ individual who masters movement with or without the ball in any sport using a ball,” Crosby said. A creative playmaker with a leg for scoring from distance is how Crosby describes junior mid AnnMarie Ahrens, who is a third-year starter and looks to connect up-top with senior Lilli Giron. Olivia Wroblewski is tagged as a key defender and part of an experienced defending line that includes fellow seniors Sophie Giron – who with sister Lilli committed to Marian University -- and Sarah Novak. They’ll be leaned on early as Lake Park settles on a replacement for four-year stalwart keeper Sarah Yochem. When injuries took a toll on Yochem, the Lancers fortunes nose-dived. There was a stretch at mid-year when the Lancers won four times in a six-match stretch. Then they were outscored 25-1 over the last eight matches with a limited roster. So as cliché as it sounds, staying healthy remains a vital necessity.
St. Charles East
Coach: Vince DiNuzzo (3rd year at SCE / 5th overall)
2019 record: 22-6-0 (6-1-0 DKC tie, 1stt)
Will miss: Grace Griffin (GK / SC All-State, IHSSCA All-State), Kayla Villa (MF / All-DKC), Renee Unterberg (MF / CS SM), Emma Blankenship (MF), Ashley DiOrio (D), Bri Muzi (D)
Key returnees: Elle McCaslin (Sr., F / CS All-State, IHSSCA Player of Year, IHSSCA All-State, All-DKC), Alondra Carranza (Sr., D, CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Hannah Miller (Jr., D / IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC, CS WL), Margaret Harper (Sr., M / CS WL), Jamie McDermott (Sr., F), Sidda Patel (Jr., MF), Lindsey Rzeszutko (Jr., D), Megan Stout (Jr., D).
Outlook: Since nothing is decided on paper, St. Charles East coach Vince DiNuzzo shrugs off the idea the Saints have a target on their backs. “All that matters is what you do on the field. The facts are we were co-champs with Batavia. St. Charles North hasn’t gone anywhere, and they have a nice core. I’m sure Geneva and others are thinking about how many wins they can compile also knowing no one went unscathed.” And nobody has to remind DiNuzzo that the crosstown rival North Stars accounted for half his team’s losses in a 22-6-0 season. If not for a sectional semifinal win in 2014, one has to go all the way back to the 2005 regular season for a victory over their crosstown rival. Plus 2019 ended in a 3-1 sectional title loss to North. “Once that final whistle blew, all this group started talking about was getting back out there and getting better.” Yes Chicagoland Soccer All-State goalie Grace Griffin graduated along with fellow All-DKC honoree Kayla Villa plus half the top-eight point producers, but the East cupboard is never bare. Start with IHSSCA Player of the Year and consensus all-state forward Elle McCaslin (committed to Mississippi State) who tied for seventh among the state’s juniors in points (73 / 29g-15a) last season. She earned All-DKC honors along with defender Alondra Carranza (St. Cloud State), whose resume also includes all-state acclaim. Continue down a roster that features CS Watch List picks like midfielder Margaret Harper (Texas-Dallas) and defender Hannah Miller plus returning junior starters like Lindsey Rzeszutko, Megan Stout or team defensive MVP Jessica Stepien. Not to be overlooked are seniors Christina Hull and Alex Lopez (Wisconsin-Oshkosh), whose class now includes Kaitlin Gahagan. DiNuzzo sees the latter and sophomore sister McKenna Gahagan as impact players; the pair transferred from Virginia’s prep ranks. The biggest question is how sophomore Sofia Iori or freshman Grace Stehman fill Griffin’s goalie gloves.
St. Charles North
Coach: Brian Harks (5th year at SCNHS)
2019 record: 19-2-1 (5-1-1 / DKC 3rd)
Will miss: Cece Wahlberg (MF / CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Sara Maleski (GK / CS All-State), Claudia Najera, (F / CS SM, All-DKC), Ali Wessel (D / CS SM).
Key returnees: Sami Rydberg (Sr., M, CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Sarah Andrey (Sr., F, CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Makenna Collins (Jr., D / CS Watch List), Alyssa Kraft (Sr., D), Kellie Callaghan (Sr., F), Anna Weyman (Sr., MF), Grace Barresi (Jr., D), Maddie Rossi (Jr., F)
Outlook: If there is an exercise in futility, it’s wondering how much graduation losses will make St. Charles North weaker. After losing a prolific one-two scoring combo to graduation in 2018 and starting 2019 with a tie, the speculation began that the North Stars were vulnerable. Eight clean sheets, the St. Charles Augsburg-Drach Invitational trophy plus a Naperville Invitational co-championship were then part of a 14-match win streak. So was a 2-1 road loss at Batavia in early May (was that a sign of tough times to come?). Obviously not when another win streak encompassed both regional and sectional plaques before defending state champ Barrington claimed the supersectional meeting on its home turf en route to a runnerup finish for 2019. Yes, the 19-2-2 North Stars fell well short of the previous year’s offense (61 goals vs. 96), but the defensive was improved (16 goals allowed vs. 20). And it’s true North graduated two CS All-State athletes – athletic standout CeCe Wahlberg and goalie Sara Maleski – plus a pair of CS Special Mention players – Claudia Najera and Ali Wessel, but this program doesn’t rebuild, it reloads thanks to coach Brian Harks and his staff led by Eric Willson. It doesn’t hurt to have cornerstones like CS All-State picks Sami Rydberg (MF / 14g-4a) and Sarah Andrey (F / 14g-8a). There is veteran leadership up and down the field, from Makenna Collins (CS Watch List), a junior and third-year varsity player; to senior midfielders Rydberg and Alyssa Kraft. Having come into her own as a scorer in 2019, Andrey is a threat up-top. She and senior goalie hopeful Jordan Boyd are both committed to North Central while Aly Mileham will move on to Monmouth College. Mileham was previously a starter until a sophomore year knee injury but is now back and healthy. Oh, there’s another Najera, freshman Bella, proving that the more things change at North, the more they seem to remain the same.
Wheaton North
Coach: Tim McEvilly (20th year at WNHS / 24th overall)
2019 record: 8-14-1 (2-5-0 DKC 6th)
Will miss: Anna Warfield (D-M / CS SM, IHSSCA HM Sec 3, All-DKC), Kristen Szumski (D / CS SM, All-DKC), Sarah Brcka (MF-F / CS SM)
Key returnees: Olivia Moreno (So., F), Kayla Shebar (Jr., F), Claudia Kim (Sr., MF), Riley Winckler (Sr., MF-F), Camille Cote (Sr., MF), Peyten Yates (Sr., MF), Ella Kocher, Jr., D)
Outlook: Because Wheaton North finished under .500 at 8-14-1, coach Tim McEvilly hopes the improvements shown during the 2019 campaign might mean the Falcons can fly under the radar this season. He saw in the league switch that the top DuKane teams were equal to the best of the DuPage Valley. And the Falcons 2-5-0 league record didn’t reflect what happened on the field. “Against one of the best, if not the best conference, we hung in much longer than the final scores might indicate.” It’s noteworthy that 11 of the Falcons’ losses were by a single goal. The first four came in an 0-4-0 start to the season. Then North went 7-1-1 over the next nine matches. “Our youth showed at the beginning, and once we started to figure things out we showed our potential. Unfortunately, we were not as deep as others so a couple injuries had a greater impact for us last year,” McEvilly noted. “We return 12 players, most of whom were significant contributors, and add eight. The camaraderie and work ethic shown over the summer tells me they’re all committed to being better players than last year. I’m convinced they’ll be entertaining and looking to attack by using their speed.” Three of the DKC’s top 20-point producers are back in CS Watch List selections Olivia Moreno (13g-4a) and Kayla Shebar (5g-10a), plus Riley Winkler (6g-6a). McEvilly also believes Peyten Yates to be a key in midfield noting: “She is one of the few three-sport athletes who has the energy and enthusiasm to compete in any sport and can be overlooked but is a glue player.”
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: Guy Callipari (26th year with WWS girls / 29th overall)
2019 record: 14-5-2 (3-3-1 DKC 5th)
Will miss: J.J. Aalbue (MF, CS All-State, IHSSCA All-State, DKC Player of Year, All-DKC), Paige Miller (MF / CS All-State, All-DKC), Marie Dohse (D / CS SM, IHSSCA HM Section 3, All-DVC), Allie Anderson (MF), Audrey Seibert (MF), Evelyn Demsher (MF), Molly Fank (D), Audrey Siebert (MF), Ellery Fahey (MF), Maddie Monaco (D)
Key returnees: Abby Becker (Sr., D), Sam Buol (Sr., D), Sara Berardi (Sr., D), Cam Tirkildsen (Sr., MF), Becca Hauenstein (Jr., MF), Ellie Farrel (So., MF).
Outlook: When it comes to Wheaton Warrenville South, 2020 vision has to refer to the new-look Tigers after Guy Callipari, saw nine starters graduate from a 14-5-2 unit that took fifth in its DuKane debut at 3-3-1. The dean of the DKC coaches cuts right to the heart of the matter: “How will you be in 2020? The answer is somewhere in the first five games of the campaign when roles are learned and accepted,” Callipari said. “The goal production will need to come from a consorted effort from the front five and our defensive posture will seek four or five new faces.” Those nine starters lost included five four-year veterans while the other four where three-year South varsity members. Believe it or not there are four seniors on the roster including starting defender Sam Buol and defensive linemate junior Becca Hauenstein. That may be an overlooked positive since the 2019 Tigers set a season record for fewest shots allowed. Considering South’s rich tradition, “they clearly did the job on defense even though everybody focuses on the offense we lost,” Callipari added. On the plus side, there are two newcomers boasting solid club resumes in senior defender Abby Dannegger and junior midfielder Emma Showman. “In this conference, you’re never assured of any outcome, so the possibilities are still wide open, especially if we have a work hard attitude on both sides of the ball, develop continuity in our play, trust in one another, and compete at our highest level possible.”
By Steve Nemeth
There was no memo circulated, but all the DuKane Conference girls soccer coaches sounded as if they received a list of talking points.
If not the same exact words, the adjectives, descriptions, and outlook for year two of the DKC was like an echo whether the speaker was Batavia’s Mark Gianfrancesco, Geneva’s Megan Owens, Glenbard North’s David Stanfield, Lake Park’s Sean Crosby, St. Charles East’s Vince DiNuzzo, St. Charles North’s Brian Harks, Wheaton North’s Tim McEvilly or Wheaton Warrenville South’s Guy Callipari.
Here is an amalgamated quote for season two from the coaches:
“Top to bottom the DKC: (no. 1) will be more challenging, competitive, a battle, always a test, no easy matches, can’t ever sleep on anyone; (no. 2) the quality of talent, depth, skill and hunger is obvious, evident, tremendous, unlimited; and (no. 3) every program is motivated, improved, capable, well-coached and well-organized.”
And all hope the Coronavirus issue can be brought under control so the season can safely begin at some point this spring.
The teams’ numbers vary when it comes to starters back, returning players, and potential impactful newcomers, but the expectation and potential exists for every school to improve as the season unfolds.
Although no one is counted out, a few subtle thoughts may hint at what is expected.
“The Tri-Cities teams are always at the top of the mix because they’ve got three good clubs to draw from,” veteran Wheaton Warrenville South coach Callipari noted. “The Wheaton Wings, and even Kopion (clubs) are starting to get off the ground. We don’t have the split in numbers for three distinct rosters (varsity, JV1 and JV2).”
“If it’s not the best conference it’s one of the best, because there’s so much talent,” noted Wheaton North’s McEvilly. “St. Charles East has the best player (Ellie McCaslin) in Illinois back (2019 IHSSCA Player of the Year). Across town (SC) North always has a stable lineup with great confidence, Batavia is a defending co-champ. Seriously, you can’t sleep on anyone.”
Batavia’s Gianfrancesco has always viewed that conference play is a means to an end, namely preparing a team for postseason success. “And there’s no better means than the DKC,” he said.
While Batavia shared the inaugural 2019 crown with East, Saints coach Vince DiNuzzo acknowledges the elephant in the room. Three of the Saints’ six losses came courtesy of the rival North Stars. “No matter how many times we meet, for us to reach our goals we have to beat them, and that’s a credit to (head coach) Brian (Harks), (assistant) Eric (Willson) and all their kids.”
Add that as yet another defining characteristic of the DKC: mutual respect.
Here are capsules of the teams:
Batavia
Coach: Mark Gianfrancesco (9th year with BHS girls / 21st as head coach)
2019 record: 17-5-2 (6-1-0 DKC tie, 1st)
Will miss: Anne Holcombe (F / CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Jenna Nichols (D / CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Zaire Solis (D / CS SM), CeCe Hamann (F), Taylor Fleury (D), Rachel Polignone (D).
Key returnees: Grace Salyers (Jr., F / All-DKC, CS WL), Abby Zipse (Sr., M / All-DKC, CS WL), Hailey Flannagan (Sr., GK / IHSSCA HM Sec 3), Chloe Valentino (Sr., MF), Bella Zink (Sr., MF), Ashley Whelpley (Jr.), Aubrey Hahn (So., GK).
Outlook: While singer Meghan Trainor was “all about that bass”, Mark Gianfrancesco has consistently been all about the postseason. Yet even the longtime Batavia boys and girls head man had to admit some satisfaction when his 2019 Bulldogs claimed a share of the inaugural DuKane girls soccer title. But his grin was wider after Batavia edged Tri-Cities foe Geneva (1-0) for a regional championship. Outside of Gianfrancesco’s initial year, his Bulldog girls have reached eight-straight regional title games and this last one was the third plaque in his tenure. and fourth all-time for the school. “Conference play is a means to an end,” Gianfrancesco said once again in viewing the rugged league slate as the ultimate preparation for postseason. However, he is equally insistent whatever happened in a prior year guarantees nothing for the next campaign. “We had a good run but if anything can help us to be better. it might be being more experienced. We always stress the importance of team chemistry, being mentally ready, and the need to be competitive in training, practice and games. Hopefully our experience gives us a better understanding of what made 2019 successful. It’s up to the seniors and (seven) starters back to steer the ship correctly.” Look to All-DKC honorees Abby Zipse (4g / Northern Illinois commit) and Grace Salyers (10g-4a) to do that. The duo were 2019 Chicagoland Soccer Watch List junior and sophomore picks, respectively. Seniors Chloe Valentino (6g/1a) and Bella Zink (2g-4a / UW-Parkside) plus junior Ashley Whelpley are unheralded veterans along with the goalie duo of senior Hailey Flannagan (Illinois Institute of Technology) and sophomore Aubrey Hahn, who combined for 13 shared shutouts, tying them for 34th in state rankings for shutouts with 6.5 apiece. Depth will come from senior Hailey Skupa who has chosen to return to prep play, a quintet of talented sophomores, plus a freshman with a well-known Batavia surname: Riley DiBiase.
Geneva
Coach: Megan Owens (12th year at GHS / 16th as head coach)
2019 record: 11-6 -2 (4-3-0 DKC 4th)
Will miss: Jenna Dominguez (F / CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3), All-DKC), Katie Cannon (D / CS SM, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Sydney Gratz (MF / CS SM, IHSSCA HM Sec 3), Caitlin Farell (F / CS SM), Stephanie Howe (MF / CS SM).
Key returnees: Katie Montgomery (Sr., GK / CS WL, All-DKC), Annalise Spindle (Sr., M / CS WL), Annie Brolly (Jr., D), Chloe Frison (Sr., D).
Outlook: Although coach Megan Owens admitted “We graduated a tremendous amount of talent, including our entire starting offense” (a group that includes five players with postseason honors), perhaps a rendition of “Don’t Cry For Me DKC” fits. “We have 16 returning players and have added some talented new players,” Owens noted. “The leadership of the 12 seniors on this team will be key ... so I wouldn’t count us out, especially with our record of success.” Especially when there are six institutions who will welcome Vikings to their ranks after graduation. Start off with one of the state’s top 50 keepers in terms of goals-against-average (no. 47 at 1.429 from the Chicagoland Soccer stat leaders list) in senior Katie Montgomery (CS WL, the only goalie to earn All-DKC), a Division I signee by Missouri State. The question to be answered for Geneva is which player or combination of players can replace or exceed the 70 percent of the offense that was created by the top-four graduated point producers (CS All-State and All-DKC Jenna Dominguez 18g-6a; and CS special mention honorees Caitlin Farrell 15g-3a; Stephanie Howe 7g-14a and Sydney Gratz 4g-9a). Eager to continue the Vikings legacy before moving on are Paige MacRitchie (Nova Southeastern), Alicia White (Grand Valley State), Morgot Yelle (UW-Parkside), Katie Desens (Carthage), Lindsay Ferris (Waubonsee CC), plus Annalise Spindle, a CS Watch List pick who is still weighing her options. An interesting statistical side note in relation to the aforementioned 2019 offensive firepower: last year’s team was one shy of the 2018 victory tally, but matched the prior unit in goals with 58. However, Geneva gave up five fewer goals last season and five-of-six losses came by a single goal. The bulk of those defenders are back for 2020 including CS Special Mention back Katie Cannon). While Owens traditionally emphasizes the team and plays it close to the vest, she is convinced her senior starters are ready to step up and contribute. She also anticipated help from varsity newcomers Alicia White and Kiki Lappin.
Glenbard North
Coach: David Stanfield (15th year at GNHS)
2018 record: 3-14-2 (0-7-0 DVC 8th)
Will miss: Hannah Arista (D / All-DVC), Jacqueline Arroyo (D / IHSSCA HM Sec. 3), Karissa Chalus (GK).
Key returnees: Anna Pedraza (Jr., D / All-DVC in 2018), Perla Kamami (Sr., MF), Olivia Corona (Jr., MF), Anna Pedraza (Jr., D), Alexis Stone (So., D), Criselle Culhi (So., F-MF), Teagan Flanagan (Jr., MF), Payton Crawford (So., F-MF).
Season outlook: Glenbard North coach David Stanfield knows the game well and is realistic about the Panthers continuing to make progress as a program. “Whether it was the DuPage Valley or now the DuKane, conference play provides a steep learning curve. We need to develop our chemistry during the nonconference schedule in order to stay as competitive as possible in all the league matches,” Stanfield said. “Although we lack the numbers we’d prefer, I think the experience our returnees bring back will be a big help. This is a very coachable group that has shown itself to be receptive to learning.” In 2019, the Panthers got off to a 2-3-2 start, but then went winless in the rugged DKC slate during a 10-game losing streak that saw North outscored 46-1. However, Glenbard North ended that skid with a 2-0 regional quarterfinal win over Addison Trail. Perla Kamami had a goal and an assist backed by a goal from Payton Crawford and an assist from Teagan Flanagan. Kamami, a senior captain, tops a list of six returning starters. Stanfield has a defensive line anchor in Alexis Stone, who earned 2019 MVP accolades as a freshman. He counts on the experience of Kamami plus juniors Olivia Corona – a third-year starter – and Anna Pedraza. Stanfield anticipates more production from sophomore Criselle Culhi.
Lake Park
Coach: Sean Crosby (4th year at LPHS)
2019 record: 4-17-2 (1-6-0 DKC 7th)
Will miss: Sarah Yochem (GK), Selena Catalano (F)
Key returnees: Emma Thorne (Jr., D / All-DKC), AnnMarie Ahrens (Jr., MF), Olivia Wroblewski (Sr., D), Sarah Novak (Sr., D), Sophie Giron (Sr., D), Lilli Giron (Sr., F-MF)
Season outlook: On paper, Lake Park’s progress in 2019 was incremental – a first conference win in three seasons (the initial year in the DuKane Conference and two prior in the DuPage Valley). On the field, coach Sean Crosby saw a lot more growth and promise. “We really learned that we’re not only able to keep matches close but really compete.” Using a roster comprised of nearly half freshmen and sophomores, the 4-17-2 Lancers had seven 1-0 defeats. They allowed three or more goals in only four outings. “As was the case in the DVC, there is not an easy game in the DuKane,” said Crosby, who noted his players redoubled their effort. “I’ve seen a massive push for greater fitness and a level of unselfish to go with a major increase in work ethic.” Having eight returning starters deserving of praise is almost a new adjective for LP’s program. Fresh from helping Lake Park take fourth in the Class 4A state basketball tourney, Emma Thorne headlines the roster as an All-DKC and IHSSCA Honorable Mention Section 3 selection. “We’re talking a tenacious defender, fierce competitor, high IQ individual who masters movement with or without the ball in any sport using a ball,” Crosby said. A creative playmaker with a leg for scoring from distance is how Crosby describes junior mid AnnMarie Ahrens, who is a third-year starter and looks to connect up-top with senior Lilli Giron. Olivia Wroblewski is tagged as a key defender and part of an experienced defending line that includes fellow seniors Sophie Giron – who with sister Lilli committed to Marian University -- and Sarah Novak. They’ll be leaned on early as Lake Park settles on a replacement for four-year stalwart keeper Sarah Yochem. When injuries took a toll on Yochem, the Lancers fortunes nose-dived. There was a stretch at mid-year when the Lancers won four times in a six-match stretch. Then they were outscored 25-1 over the last eight matches with a limited roster. So as cliché as it sounds, staying healthy remains a vital necessity.
St. Charles East
Coach: Vince DiNuzzo (3rd year at SCE / 5th overall)
2019 record: 22-6-0 (6-1-0 DKC tie, 1stt)
Will miss: Grace Griffin (GK / SC All-State, IHSSCA All-State), Kayla Villa (MF / All-DKC), Renee Unterberg (MF / CS SM), Emma Blankenship (MF), Ashley DiOrio (D), Bri Muzi (D)
Key returnees: Elle McCaslin (Sr., F / CS All-State, IHSSCA Player of Year, IHSSCA All-State, All-DKC), Alondra Carranza (Sr., D, CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Hannah Miller (Jr., D / IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC, CS WL), Margaret Harper (Sr., M / CS WL), Jamie McDermott (Sr., F), Sidda Patel (Jr., MF), Lindsey Rzeszutko (Jr., D), Megan Stout (Jr., D).
Outlook: Since nothing is decided on paper, St. Charles East coach Vince DiNuzzo shrugs off the idea the Saints have a target on their backs. “All that matters is what you do on the field. The facts are we were co-champs with Batavia. St. Charles North hasn’t gone anywhere, and they have a nice core. I’m sure Geneva and others are thinking about how many wins they can compile also knowing no one went unscathed.” And nobody has to remind DiNuzzo that the crosstown rival North Stars accounted for half his team’s losses in a 22-6-0 season. If not for a sectional semifinal win in 2014, one has to go all the way back to the 2005 regular season for a victory over their crosstown rival. Plus 2019 ended in a 3-1 sectional title loss to North. “Once that final whistle blew, all this group started talking about was getting back out there and getting better.” Yes Chicagoland Soccer All-State goalie Grace Griffin graduated along with fellow All-DKC honoree Kayla Villa plus half the top-eight point producers, but the East cupboard is never bare. Start with IHSSCA Player of the Year and consensus all-state forward Elle McCaslin (committed to Mississippi State) who tied for seventh among the state’s juniors in points (73 / 29g-15a) last season. She earned All-DKC honors along with defender Alondra Carranza (St. Cloud State), whose resume also includes all-state acclaim. Continue down a roster that features CS Watch List picks like midfielder Margaret Harper (Texas-Dallas) and defender Hannah Miller plus returning junior starters like Lindsey Rzeszutko, Megan Stout or team defensive MVP Jessica Stepien. Not to be overlooked are seniors Christina Hull and Alex Lopez (Wisconsin-Oshkosh), whose class now includes Kaitlin Gahagan. DiNuzzo sees the latter and sophomore sister McKenna Gahagan as impact players; the pair transferred from Virginia’s prep ranks. The biggest question is how sophomore Sofia Iori or freshman Grace Stehman fill Griffin’s goalie gloves.
St. Charles North
Coach: Brian Harks (5th year at SCNHS)
2019 record: 19-2-1 (5-1-1 / DKC 3rd)
Will miss: Cece Wahlberg (MF / CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Sara Maleski (GK / CS All-State), Claudia Najera, (F / CS SM, All-DKC), Ali Wessel (D / CS SM).
Key returnees: Sami Rydberg (Sr., M, CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Sarah Andrey (Sr., F, CS All-State, IHSSCA Section 3, All-DKC), Makenna Collins (Jr., D / CS Watch List), Alyssa Kraft (Sr., D), Kellie Callaghan (Sr., F), Anna Weyman (Sr., MF), Grace Barresi (Jr., D), Maddie Rossi (Jr., F)
Outlook: If there is an exercise in futility, it’s wondering how much graduation losses will make St. Charles North weaker. After losing a prolific one-two scoring combo to graduation in 2018 and starting 2019 with a tie, the speculation began that the North Stars were vulnerable. Eight clean sheets, the St. Charles Augsburg-Drach Invitational trophy plus a Naperville Invitational co-championship were then part of a 14-match win streak. So was a 2-1 road loss at Batavia in early May (was that a sign of tough times to come?). Obviously not when another win streak encompassed both regional and sectional plaques before defending state champ Barrington claimed the supersectional meeting on its home turf en route to a runnerup finish for 2019. Yes, the 19-2-2 North Stars fell well short of the previous year’s offense (61 goals vs. 96), but the defensive was improved (16 goals allowed vs. 20). And it’s true North graduated two CS All-State athletes – athletic standout CeCe Wahlberg and goalie Sara Maleski – plus a pair of CS Special Mention players – Claudia Najera and Ali Wessel, but this program doesn’t rebuild, it reloads thanks to coach Brian Harks and his staff led by Eric Willson. It doesn’t hurt to have cornerstones like CS All-State picks Sami Rydberg (MF / 14g-4a) and Sarah Andrey (F / 14g-8a). There is veteran leadership up and down the field, from Makenna Collins (CS Watch List), a junior and third-year varsity player; to senior midfielders Rydberg and Alyssa Kraft. Having come into her own as a scorer in 2019, Andrey is a threat up-top. She and senior goalie hopeful Jordan Boyd are both committed to North Central while Aly Mileham will move on to Monmouth College. Mileham was previously a starter until a sophomore year knee injury but is now back and healthy. Oh, there’s another Najera, freshman Bella, proving that the more things change at North, the more they seem to remain the same.
Wheaton North
Coach: Tim McEvilly (20th year at WNHS / 24th overall)
2019 record: 8-14-1 (2-5-0 DKC 6th)
Will miss: Anna Warfield (D-M / CS SM, IHSSCA HM Sec 3, All-DKC), Kristen Szumski (D / CS SM, All-DKC), Sarah Brcka (MF-F / CS SM)
Key returnees: Olivia Moreno (So., F), Kayla Shebar (Jr., F), Claudia Kim (Sr., MF), Riley Winckler (Sr., MF-F), Camille Cote (Sr., MF), Peyten Yates (Sr., MF), Ella Kocher, Jr., D)
Outlook: Because Wheaton North finished under .500 at 8-14-1, coach Tim McEvilly hopes the improvements shown during the 2019 campaign might mean the Falcons can fly under the radar this season. He saw in the league switch that the top DuKane teams were equal to the best of the DuPage Valley. And the Falcons 2-5-0 league record didn’t reflect what happened on the field. “Against one of the best, if not the best conference, we hung in much longer than the final scores might indicate.” It’s noteworthy that 11 of the Falcons’ losses were by a single goal. The first four came in an 0-4-0 start to the season. Then North went 7-1-1 over the next nine matches. “Our youth showed at the beginning, and once we started to figure things out we showed our potential. Unfortunately, we were not as deep as others so a couple injuries had a greater impact for us last year,” McEvilly noted. “We return 12 players, most of whom were significant contributors, and add eight. The camaraderie and work ethic shown over the summer tells me they’re all committed to being better players than last year. I’m convinced they’ll be entertaining and looking to attack by using their speed.” Three of the DKC’s top 20-point producers are back in CS Watch List selections Olivia Moreno (13g-4a) and Kayla Shebar (5g-10a), plus Riley Winkler (6g-6a). McEvilly also believes Peyten Yates to be a key in midfield noting: “She is one of the few three-sport athletes who has the energy and enthusiasm to compete in any sport and can be overlooked but is a glue player.”
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: Guy Callipari (26th year with WWS girls / 29th overall)
2019 record: 14-5-2 (3-3-1 DKC 5th)
Will miss: J.J. Aalbue (MF, CS All-State, IHSSCA All-State, DKC Player of Year, All-DKC), Paige Miller (MF / CS All-State, All-DKC), Marie Dohse (D / CS SM, IHSSCA HM Section 3, All-DVC), Allie Anderson (MF), Audrey Seibert (MF), Evelyn Demsher (MF), Molly Fank (D), Audrey Siebert (MF), Ellery Fahey (MF), Maddie Monaco (D)
Key returnees: Abby Becker (Sr., D), Sam Buol (Sr., D), Sara Berardi (Sr., D), Cam Tirkildsen (Sr., MF), Becca Hauenstein (Jr., MF), Ellie Farrel (So., MF).
Outlook: When it comes to Wheaton Warrenville South, 2020 vision has to refer to the new-look Tigers after Guy Callipari, saw nine starters graduate from a 14-5-2 unit that took fifth in its DuKane debut at 3-3-1. The dean of the DKC coaches cuts right to the heart of the matter: “How will you be in 2020? The answer is somewhere in the first five games of the campaign when roles are learned and accepted,” Callipari said. “The goal production will need to come from a consorted effort from the front five and our defensive posture will seek four or five new faces.” Those nine starters lost included five four-year veterans while the other four where three-year South varsity members. Believe it or not there are four seniors on the roster including starting defender Sam Buol and defensive linemate junior Becca Hauenstein. That may be an overlooked positive since the 2019 Tigers set a season record for fewest shots allowed. Considering South’s rich tradition, “they clearly did the job on defense even though everybody focuses on the offense we lost,” Callipari added. On the plus side, there are two newcomers boasting solid club resumes in senior defender Abby Dannegger and junior midfielder Emma Showman. “In this conference, you’re never assured of any outcome, so the possibilities are still wide open, especially if we have a work hard attitude on both sides of the ball, develop continuity in our play, trust in one another, and compete at our highest level possible.”