The 2026 boys soccer season in McHenry County is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with several programs carrying momentum from last year’s successes and facing the inevitable challenges of graduation.
Huntley’s Title Defense and Roster Overhaul
Huntley’s Red Raiders captured the Fox Valley Conference title outright in 2025, finishing a perfect 9‑0 in league play before bowing out in the Class 3A regional finals to St. Charles North. The squad will now navigate a significant rebuild, having lost three All‑FVC defenders — Ryan Andresen, Oliver Sutyniec and Noah Gomez — and two All‑FVC midfielders, Max Bauer and Finley Williams, who combined for seven assists the previous season.
Coach Dan Miller is already mapping out a strategy that leans on younger players and internal promotions, but the loss of that defensive core means the team must find new leaders at the back and reinvent its midfield creativity.
Woodstock North’s Rise and Future Outlook
Woodstock North is riding the high of its first Kishwaukee River Conference regular‑season championship, a 6‑1 record that showcased standout performances from defender Cole Morrison and midfielder Saul Santana. Goalkeeper Alex Carbajal earned KRC Goalkeeper of the Year honors, and four of the six All‑KRC selections were sophomores, suggesting a deep well of talent that could carry the team forward.
Dundee‑Crown’s Playoff Run and Gaps to Fill
Dundee‑Crown, the sole Class 3A program to win a regional championship last year, fell just short in the sectional semifinals to St. Charles North. The team will need to replace leading scorer Hugo Arista and goalkeeper Manuel Hernandez, both of whom were pivotal in the run, while hoping the experience gained can translate into another deep playoff push.
Harvard’s Ambitious Quest and Key Departures
Harvard finished the 2025 season with a 17‑9 record, driven by All‑State midfielder Jesus Aquino, who contributed 21 goals and 15 assists. The team will also have to fill the void left by All‑KRC forward Bryan Gorostieta, who netted 25 goals and added nine assists, requiring a fresh offensive spark.
Richmond‑Burton’s Title Chase and Lessons from the Finals
Richmond‑Burton advanced to the sectional finals with a 17‑8‑2 record, anchored by midfielder Nick Kyes, whose 31 goals and 22 assists made him a dual threat. Despite a narrow loss to Chicago Academy in the championship game, the club is targeting its first sectional title since 2019 and believes the core group can finally break through.
Across the county, the blend of seasoned veterans and emerging sophomores promises a season full of twists, as each program balances the excitement of potential glory with the reality of rebuilding after key departures.